If you must travel to Tijuana right now, it may be best to go on a well-protected tour. 2019 was an especially violent year for the city. But despite its often negative border-town reputation as a city of migrants, Tijuana has carved out anew identity as a serious foodie destination, and its reputation for gourmet food, drawing on culinary influences from across the Americas, has fostered a general creative buzz, inspiring a generation of artists, photographers, ceramicists, writers and filmmakers to stay in their city, and a great many creatives from the US to move there. Are you interested in testing our business solutions? By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. A Look at Crime Rates, Safety for Tourists, and More. They are going to be looking for anyone by themselves, so you mustnt travel alone there. For some time in Tijuana, Uber drivers were attacked. Please note that not all content is translated or available to residents of all countries. If youre staying in a hotel, make sure to get bottled water to drink and brush your teeth with. Things like a lockable bag, a fanny pack, and even a chained wallet will help deter thieves. Tijuana's redlight district is known as a hot spot for crime in Tijuana, and is known to be an area with many drug-related crimes. At the end of the Tijuana River overpass, youll follow the walkway down to street level. Download the full size map. With 150+ adventure activities covered and 24/7 emergency assistance. The 10 most dangerous cities in the world mapped. For the latest travel warnings and alerts around the world, read about lockdowns and border restrictions. statistic alerts) please log in with your personal account. You can arrive at the border by either car, train, or bus. This fast-growing border city suffered 2,519 homicides in 2018. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. The original wood bar that is still standing from the 1920s is the focal point of the restaurant with a vintage cash register surrounded by liquor bottles. withlovepaperandwine.com. And a gang riot at a prison in the border city of Ciudad Juarez quickly spread onto the streets, killing 11 people on Thursday. Right after the crossing Av. Tijuana is not a city for nightlife. I'm a White American from Chicago. Looking back, his stomach dropped. Do your best to avoid neighborhoods such as Reforma, Snchez Taboada, Camino Verde, and Mariano Matamoros. In my opinion, there isnt any upside to driving your car over the border. It became known around this. Really, Tijuana was just an agriculture mud-hole. Print the full size map. Accessed April 18, 2023. https://www.statista.com/statistics/243797/ranking-of-the-most-dangerous-cities-in-the-world-by-murder-rate-per-capita/. This has subsided and now Uber is both safe and common in Tijuana. While the Spanish discovered the region in 1542, the city was actually founded by farmers and ranchers in 1889. After the city established itself as an agriculture hub, in the 1920s Tijuana exploded as a getaway for Americans looking to indulge in both drinking andgamblingduring prohibition times. This is very common in Tijuana. You can buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world. I could tell you that any place you travel to is dangerous. After all, much of the economy there is based on tourism from the United States. A police investigator takes notes at a crime scene where a man was gunned down by unknown assailants outside a garage in Mexico City, February 12, 2020. Avoid fast-talkers or beggars asking for something. The city has a range of food from street vendors serving up some of the best tacos in Mexico to high-end restaurants of many international flavors. I got a backpack, a wallet, a handbag for my fianc. Its better to avoid all confrontations in Zona Norte. Because the rates of taxis are not always consistent, I would suggest taking an Uber there. As you walk, there will be taxi drivers along the pathway offering their driving services. Use Ask Statista Research Service. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. In fact, due to corruption and drug violence, Mexico holds the top 5 positions on this list. Earlier this week drug cartel gunmen burned vehicles and businesses in the western states of Jalisco and Guanajuato after authorities attempted to detain a leader of the Jalisco cartel. Weve all been there. Facts and Myths Explained, The Best Countries to Visit in the Caribbean. Thrillest ranked Tijuana as the 6th best red light district in the world. You cant run around like a gringo making demands. Ranking of the most dangerous cities in the world in 2022, by murder rate per 100,000 inhabitants [Graph]. They arrange you the hotel and a driver to take you from the border to the hotel and drs office. What to Declare in 2023: Can You Travel Internationally with Valuable Jewelry? This way you dont go wandering around the streets in a drunken stupor. 1. It is potentially dangerous to walkfromthe bordertothe red light district at night, especially if you are traveling alone. Most of the begging is going to occur right at the border and on Avenida Revolucin. Prostitution is supposed to be regulated in Zona Norte. Using Uber in Tijuana. Tijuana Map: The Attractions. Until now, according to several reports from the International and Legal Affairs General Administration of the Secretary of Health1, 13 states in Mexico regulate sex work:Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur, Coahuila, Colima, Chiapas, Durango, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Michoacn, Nuevo Len, Quertaro, Sinaloa and Zacatecas. nswp.org. Statista. In Zona Norte, the ladies there are checked monthly. PRO TIP: To avoid high parking costs, park at Iris Ave. Fortunately, most homicides are cartel-related and occur in . At the core of the violence is the drug trade, and the fight for turf. Celaya, Mexico - 109.39 homicides/100K. If you go, make sure to stay with a group and avoid going outside of the tourist district. Police were busy yesterday in the northern border state of Baja California, where at least 18 bodies were found . Ive lived in Tijuana for 6 years and they where finding dead bodies all over Tijuana. And do not mess with drugs down there. It is Mexicos most populous city with 2,181,000 people, and the 2nd largest city in the country after Mexico City. Mexico's nightlife is vibrant, with locals and travelers who are looking for a good time. If youre interested, this is probably the safest route. For 2020 and 2019, Tijuana was named the most violent city in the world According to the Citizen's Council for Public Safety and Criminal Justice in Mexico. Layerculture is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com Other affiliate programs linking to other recommended products and services are also used. The infamous red-light district is dangerous. Lastly, its very common for these women to drug and rob their victims. At present, Celaya is considered the . A Night in Tijuana: Female Victimization in a High-Risk Environment by Pacific. The red light district of Zona Norte is slightly West of the main tourist area of Zonas Centro. I was walking down the street with two police officers walking a head of me. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. The main clubs within one block of each other are Hong Kong Club, Adelitas, the Chicago Club, or Las Chavelas or Madonnas. By telling us your country of residence we are able to provide you with the most relevant travel insurance information. Dont let strangers stop you on the street with a sob story. Having said that, in all the considerable time Ive spent with friends in Tijuanas tourist-friendly areas Zonas Rio, Cacho, and the well-lit parts of Centro,green Chapultepec, and Playas de Tijuana Ive not witnessed a single incident that would make someone so much as stroll for cover. The source does not provide a release date, date of access used. The world's most dangerous cities Most of the world's most dangerous cities are located in. Smaller bars off, especially ones located off of Av. Dont accept offers of drugs. The LAZ and International parking located just outside of the San Ysidro metro station prices are reported as deceptive. Terms of Use and Next, make sure to not walk down unfamiliar streets, alleyways, or unlit areas. Did you know, many Tijuana officials promote it as a tourist attraction? The United States land border with Mexico will remain restricted to non-essential travel throughJune 21. These include the downtown area, the Zona Rio, Zona Centro, Zona Norte, and the beaches. Overview and forecasts on trending topics, Industry and market insights and forecasts, Key figures and rankings about companies and products, Consumer and brand insights and preferences in various industries, Detailed information about political and social topics, All key figures about countries and regions, Market forecast and expert KPIs for 600+ segments in 150+ countries, Insights on consumer attitudes and behavior worldwide, Business information on 70m+ public and private companies, Detailed information for 35,000+ online stores and marketplaces. The violence is more heavily concentrated in some areas, although few areas are totally immune. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people, and Tijuana has been ranked the most violent city in the world. 1 of 3 expats return home because of these things. Well, the use of good judgment will determine how safe it will be for you. Tijuana is a large Mexican city near the U.S border in the Baja peninsula with the most crossed border in the world. The victims, two men and two women in their teens and early 20s, said they were headed for a night of partying across the border only to be found strangled, stabbed and beaten a few days later. NY Daily News. Mexico is generally a poor country, and youll stick out like a sore thumb if youre carrying an expensive camera and wearing gold jewelry. For about 8 blocks, Revolucin is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants, many aimed at tourists. Chart. Lastly, without a doubt, make sure not to try to walk to the tourist district at night. However, a lack of common sense or being in the wrong place at the wrong time can easily make you a victim of a crime. Privacy Policy. Tijuana's redlight district, also known as Zona Norte or the Hong Kong District, is one of the most dangerous and highly trafficked tourist areas. Cons are everywhere, from the taxi to your hotel and even tours. Tijuana, a vibrant city just south of the US- Mexico border, is home to over 2 million people, and it is known for its beautiful beaches and lush vegetation. Not only are the Tijuana police often corrupt, but youll likely get an unfair shake in the jail system there. Water in Mexico is often contaminated with parasites or bacteria, which can make you sick. In that moment of distraction, the thief will then grab your item or bag and run. I have just returned home in Los Angeles after walking across the border on Wednesday night. At least the larger more established ones. Contact us for full details. My experiences in New York City were overshadowed by the enormity of, Your belongings arent always safe when traveling, and you need to protect your, Best Places to Travel for Mushrooms: Taking a Psychedelic Trip, Retiring to Uruguay: Safety, Cost, & More, Mexico Travel: Answering the Biggest Questions About Safety. The end of 2021 has shown little improvement, and Tijuana has an average of about 164 murders a month now (source - Border Report ). Would want to leave our valuables at home and remember to carry small bills for shopping. 2.1 Crime. Even if you prefer solo travel, it is best to travel in a group if you are female. Get full access to all features within our Business Solutions. I was in shock and called family and before I could think more police came and did the same thing making me cash advance my credit card. Turn left at the money exchange store. Cape Town, South Africa. See the best attraction in Tijuana Printable Tourist Map. Read 10 Tips to protect your valuables while traveling. It's not safe. Its a bad look. Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. People claiming to be lost or to have been robbed or raped, are rarely telling the truth or operating alone (pickpockets tend to be double acts). While much of the violence in Tijuana in the past 20 years was down to a turf war between drug cartels trying to secure one of the most lucrative cocaine smuggling corridors into the United States, the violence of late has been more localized, as street gangs vie for control of depressed neighborhood blocks to sell crystal meth and heroin to residents. Geographic Arbitrage: Tips to Making Money Overseas. Its essentially a paved-over riverbed that will be dried out. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Accept no invitations to house parties in Snchez Taboada, Reforma, Camino Verde and, farther out, Mariano Matamoros. Yes, thats right. And the main street of Zonas Centro, RevolucinAvenue, is lined with shops and restaurants. They call it the yellow trail. A Look at Crime Rates, Safety for Tourists, and More. A Look at Crime Rates, Safety for Tourists, and More. Its said that 1 in every 125 people between 15 and 49 years old has it. With recent events transpiring between the United States and Mexico, Tijuana is not a spot you'd want to venture off to right now. If you enjoy a good drink, Tijuana is the place for you. You only have access to basic statistics. Carry your cards and cash in a money belt, and keep a decoy wallet handy in case of muggings. Bars in Tijuana, especially near the border, are pretty dangerous. I'm surprised this is always left out but Haitians fleeing violence in Port-au-Prince are building a growing community in TJ and, perhaps not surprisingly, appear to be unimpressed by the level of crime and violence there. It is not an area where you will expect a blizzard or tornado either. With a population of over 2 million people, Tijuana is the largest metropolitan area in northwestern Mexico. If the value is 0, it means it is perceived as very low, and if the value is 100, it means it is perceived as very high. As a safe bet aim stay vigilant no matter where you find yourself in the country. This neighborhood is fairly dangerous though, and you should use caution here. Just make sure you have at least 3-4 other people with you and things will be fine. A few dollars and some dead cards will be enough to satisfy a thief, who wont hang around to check the viability of the cards. Various people will try to take advantage of you, so just be aware of your surroundings and don't trust anyone that you don't know. The women in major clubs like Hong Kong Gentlemens Club and the Chicago Club are considered on the higher end, and they will typically be vetted for their medical ID. This zone is immediately south of San Diego and right against the border. Yes, the women will dance and entertain guests like U.S. strip clubs. Riding a moped in Phuket, Cebu City, Mumbai, and more. An accomplice or two will be waiting to mug you. If youre alone and drunk, youre definitely a prime target for thieves. ). Then you can access your favorite statistics via the star in the header. And lastly, dont use any dangly bags or store your wallet in a loose pocket. After weighing his options, the wiry, 47-year-old accountant agreed, and the three drove to a nearby bank. Tijuana was voted the most dangerous city for two years in a row. And its been operating for as long as the city has existed. Unfortunately, the city holds the record of having the highest femicide rate in the world. There is also parking at the metro station, although many choose to park more North and take the blue line into the border. Also, Zona Norte is dangerous because of territorial disputes between drug cartels, countless scams, and numerous muggings. Not only is it illegal, but its dangerous. If you travel to Tijuana, make sure to stay in heavily policed areas known for tourism. Hong Kong Gentlemen Club for example has its own hotel right next to the club. Youth and reported history of verbal abuse were consistently associated with victimization with more participants frequently reporting incidents of victimization. But in crowded areas there are pickpockets and thieves and other criminals so its best to be in a group, pay attention to your things and your surroundings. About halfway down the block, youll start to see prostitutes lining the streets, some bars, and clubs. Don't drink water from the tap here! Cartels frequently traffic drugs throughout the region. And with such a high rate of crime in 2021, citizens can expect very little change in 2022. Coronavirus (COVID-19) and travel: The situation around the world is changing dramatically. Located in the usually safe state of Guanajuato, the high amount of violence here is due to the presence of the Santa Rosa de Lima cartel. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Francisco l. Madero using the crosswalk and keep walking in the same direction. On Thursday I went to the the center of town and did some shopping. Website (worldpopulationreview.com). At the same time, record numbers of U.S. citizens are either visiting Mexico as tourists or residing in the country, yet the number of Americans murdered in Mexico remains remarkably low. Tijuana continues to have problems with violent drug-related crimes and gang turf wars in poor neighborhoods. Tijuana has a lot of great food. To give you an idea, Tijuana closed out July 2021 with a whopping 190 murders. Its unfortunate, although this is probably the most prominent thing to ruin a tourists time while visiting Tijuana. In fact, its common for cartel shootouts to ensue just over the border. Tijuana rocked by wave of violent crime 14 August 2022 EPA The army and National Guard on patrol in Tijuana Thousands of federal troops have been deployed to several Mexican border cities,. Tijuana isnt one of those places you go wild in. Drug-related violence in Mexico has increased over recent years. I thought that theres cops so Im ok. Long story short I was kidnapped by them forced to drain my bank accounts after handcufffing me and sticking a gun in my mouth. 10-20 pesos is enough. Drunks are what thieves are looking for. Just make sure you dont explore the city and get safe credible rides to any place. Look for groups of other visitors, and wave to them as though theyre family, whether they see you or not con artists dont like to be outnumbered. Stratfor Worldview reports that just in 2017, over 35 million Americans visited Mexico. This activity is easier for tourists to avoid, but the desperate have a habit of showing up where theyre not wanted and, since COVID-19, they are, if anything, more desperate. They are fast and quite clever, so you need to make sure your items are protected. But the reality is that while Tijuana is a wonderful place, its very dangerous to visit. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. The fact of the matter, as of recently, the Tijuana police are mostly owned by the cartel. Be vigilant, pay attention, and always have a good understanding of where you are. Spain: A Great Destination for Retirees, Expats, Digital Nomads, and More, Malta: The Mediterraneans Best Kept Secret for Retirees, Expats, and Digital Nomads, Red Eye Flights Pros and Cons of Traveling at Night, View the San Diego blue line schedule and map here. Yes, prostitution is legal in the tolerance zone of Tijuana. Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. Though down on the previous two years, the figures are frightening, but as the writer Mark Twain put it, there are lies, damned lies and statistics. To your right, youll be able to probably spot traffic backed up at the San Ysidro Border checkpoint on the John J. Montgomery Freeway. Tijuana (Spanish: (), US: / t i hw n / tee-HWAH-n), known also by the initials T.J., is a city and municipal seat of Tijuana Municipality, Baja California, located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.It is part of the San Diego-Tijuana metro area and the larger Southern California megapolitan area.. Tijuana traces its modern history to the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th . Continue for a bit and walk over the bridge above the freeway. I was there to accompany her while she had dental work done at that big black high rise building right over the border. I was in shock and honestly at this time my memory is foggy. Discovering Southeast Asia: The Ultimate Guide to a Life-Changing Journey, Why Do the Rich Keep Their Money in the Cayman Islands? The minute you come over, youll see begging. These clubs tend to vet the girls more, and they will also make sure the agreeing parties are safely conducting business. The tourist locations are the safest part of the city. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities.