Thanks Wisdom. Im still learning but I know what videos I like to see. Trying to make those type videos. If you haven't, hope you consider subscribing. Next year I'll be retiring and making videos when I head to Thailand. Take it easy, Joe
@@davidregan9872 This Mexican says its a safe as many parts of California. Everything comes with risk, so you decide what works for you. Thanks for watching
Joe I respectfully salute you Sr I'm making this city my new home shortly (coming from the wild Midwest) and I appreciate how you present the city to the world I've also seen some of your other video of BC alway to Cabo Stay safe!
@@EagerExpat thanks Joe! Yeah I've been here a few times lately my sister is been here for more than 24 years. I do like the temperature but I don't like the salty atmosphere for my Harleys but I'll figure.
Make Sure Yuo Get Your Mexican Green Card. if You are Between and Within The Mexican territory That The U.S. Stole From Mexico, Like California,Texas,Arizona,New Mexico and so On 74 % That for now the U.S Astole and has for Now, Who Knows in 10 or next 20 Years. We Mexicans Are Taking Over Again. I Cen get You Mexican Green Card For a good Price. No Corrupt Lawyers and Business Company U.S. Immigration. Let Me Know,. This Is Heaven Man ! .
When I was a kid in the 1970s, befriended a retired detective for Paramount Studios, told me all kinds of stories about TJ, Prohibition era stuff, and beyond - truly fascinating. I personally used to visit Glorias de Tijuana on Constitucion because it was a little off the beaten track but not so far off that you had to watch your back all the time. Always treat others with respect no matter their status. Yeah, you'll encounter the occasional jerk, but most will respond positively.
Wow! It's changed so much. From the mid-eighties till 2013ish you would exit Camino De La Plaza and park in the lot behind the Duty-free store, go through the circular steel gates of hell and walk to your taxi. Then they changed that entrance to the one behind McDonalds (without telling me), now this Ped-West thing? Nuts. I remember walking back on the ped bridge on the American side and being able to look into the offices of the Border Patrol. I do miss TJ and eating some good damn food. Great post, very informative, thanks!
So, the PedWest crossing exit roughly where those "circular gates of hell" used to be. Problem is, it's closed into Mex from 10pm to 6am, so if you plan to cross PedWest, go early. Using PedWest back into the US is 24 hrs.
Damn! Accidentally found your AWESOME channel. Ex sailor here and when I travel I got to the same destinations as you!! HAHA. Recently got back from 3 weeks in Pattaya. Minnesotan looking for a fun place to go where I don't have to spend 22 hours on 3 planes to get there. I have a few questions for you about Tijuana I really like to ask. Do you have any paid channel plans/memberships where I guy can ask you questions about TJ??
Hey man. Thanks for watching. Ask me any questions here. Please keep it PG or youtube shuts this video off. It's happened twice when people get upset at certain questions. No members section here. Maybe one day. But, I try to answer every comment. All I ask is for a thumbs up if you like the video. Feel free to embed on your Facebook, etc.. the more views, the better. Many of the members only guys have been banned from earning Google ads. What little it is. Ford doesn't want a commercial on an X rated channel. But I can answer general questions.
when i tried to leave about 10pm on a Friday night there was about a 2 hour line to walk back across the border. i found a service that for $20 will escort you to the front of the line and it only takes about 20 mins. Totally worth it.,
Baja always has a system. Hopefully, that's a legal system and not some local "club" members just cutting the line on your behalf. 20 years ago there was a loophole for bicycles in the driving lane to the far right. It's Sentri today. You could rent a little childs bike for $5 and ride up and turn the bike in on the other side near Jack N Box. You would see 300 pound guys on a bike made for a 10 year old. It was kid of funny. The customs agents ended that bike lane pretty fast.
oh, it seemed shady as hell. he at one point stopped me near the front and was looking for something or someone. then spoke to the people were at the front of the line and usured me past them.@@EagerExpat
Thank you for information on Red Zone, Tijuana. I am leaving soon for my Mormon Mission in San Diego. I will get to Red Zone every time I can sneak away.
@@srbaruchi Yes, the legal brothels in Nevada have parking lots full of cars with Utah plates. Donny and Marie Osmond is a fake front for what Mormons do..just ask Mitt Romney.
@@paulbrungardt9823 I was jiving ya. I suspect that people who are truly committed to any fundamentalist religion DO strive to avoid premarital and extramarital sex. However, that doesn't mean there aren't lots of people "of faith" who disregard religious prohibitions against illicit or immoral sex. Personally, I find it a mystery why anyone would choose to belong to a religious sect that discourages premarital sex.
Hopefully things get back to normal soon. Baja is great to visit. Thanks for checking out the video. If you haven't, I hope you consider subscribing. Thanks, Joe
@@EagerExpat Once upon a time, I used to visit Tijuana twice a year. But that was too long ago. Now I am wondering if Mexico is safe to visit today. According to the Internet, it’s not.
@@Jiltedin2007 If you take big city precaution, you'll be fine. Nothing surprises me (unfortunately) in the US these days. Anything can happen here or in Baja. Get back to Baja and enjoy. That's my 2 cents anyhow.
Thanks for watching and the compliment. Ya, I've been to 50 or 60 countries. I try to put my self in the locals shoes. If I lived in a slum, would I try to scam a drunken tourist? Maybe. If I was hungry enough. Its fun to check out the Hong Kong, but that's not the best part of TJ. Have a few beers, but you need to watch your back. Take it easy Michael
@@EagerExpat Sounds like you and I are cut from similar cloth-- There's is nothing worse than the ugly, arrogant tourist...and people who go cracking to strangers for blow...just write "Put something white in a bag" on their forehead. Ha! I subscribed to you...dig your stuff. Talk again, I hope.
Thanks. If you clock on my videos I have a few San Diego clips. RU-vid only shows my Baja clips. I hope I earn your subscription. Im new it really helps. Thanks Joe
@@chim5010 Thanks. I can't see who subscribed. I sure appreciate the support. You'll love San Diego. I've lived here 50 years. Let me know if you have any questions. Joe
Thanks Jacques Wilkens for the comment. I'm new and learning how to edit, etc.. I just got a drone and just got back from San Felipe. Hopefully you'll subscribe and check out my future videos. Take it easy. Joe
I watched this video. This is the 2nd video of yours that I have watched today. I have subscribed to your Channel bc I think you really do a nice job with your videos. Thank you Joe!
Thanks Roger. I haven't put another video up in awhile. I haven't been in Baja for a few months. I'll hopefully get some new footage soon. Hopefully heading to Mulege and Loreto. In the meantime, I have a pretty good collection of Baja videos to check out. Thanks again, Joe
Uber is Amazing in Tijuana! I travel daily to Tijuana, park in the US, and walk to the border and catch an Uber near the border. Also, Uber drivers can't pick up at Tijuana airport
Thanks Edgar, Ill give Uber another chance in TJ. Maybe in just spoiled in San Diego. I get a car in 1 minute, etc. I agree with the airport rule, but I've been picked up across the street and dropped at the airport a dozen times. Even Vegas finally broke down and allows Uber.
@@EagerExpat if you talk to the Uber drivers, they'll tell you the airport authority fines them like $2500 DLLS if they get caught picking up at the airport. But yes, I've been informed you just have to leave airport property, as a passenger. Also, as far as getting picked at the San ysidro east, once you get past the turnstiles, and pass the taxis, cross the street and call the Uber near the pharmacy
Thank you for this! I never checked-out Tijuana, but have been thinking about it. Maybe you should organize a little tour with only a few guys, where we all go and come back together? Maybe something like this already exists? I would pay for that. Many many years ago, a good buddy and I drove to Rosarito and Ensenada, two separate trips. Forgettable trips! We even drove back from Ensenada in the early morning dark hours, like at 2 am. Young and Dumb!
Hey Joseph, I'm Joe too. I'm still dumb. I just drove back from Ensenada in the dark at 4am. That's the only road I'll drive in Baja at night. Thanks for checking out my channel. I told another few guys I might stop by and have a beer when they take a 3 day trip. To be honest I try to avoid TJ on the weekends. That place is just packed Fri and Sat. I told them I might meet them Sunday Apr 26. Maybe earlier, like 6pm. If there trip is still a go. If you have your passport (hopefully you won't be charged) and are prepared for the FMM charge, I'd be glad to meet you at the parking lot on the US side. Setting up a large group might get a little tricky. If you don't have the passport, others have still entered. But both entering and getting back into the US might involve a trip to an office (secondary inspection) Too be honest, I don't want to deal with those issues. If you have your passport, I'll cross over with you. 90% chance you'll get tagged for the FMM. I'll wait for you to get the "essential travel" speech and pay your $31. Then your good for 6 months, when you go back. And you will. It's really not that tricky and you can check it out on your own, relatively safe. Just do what I said in the video and you'll be fine. Have exact change for the cabs ($6) or they will often times give you change in pesos. Do you live in Southern California?
Dude I’m a young buck trying to get into the red light district and Tijuana I’m 25 and a little timid dating I’m going on my own maybe if you guys still haven’t gone if I could tagalong
Thanks for all the info, but u mentioned not to go in to some of the smaller bars even though we would be welcome. What's your main reason not to go there? Is it your personal taste or other reasons?
It's more a personal choice. The more touristy places are like US strip clubs. The smaller places (my guess) wouldn't be most folks first choice. There more like a dive bar. Which is fine, but most people heading to the Zona are heading to the Hong Kong, Adelita's, Miami and Chicago. Others have their favorites, but this was a video for beginners. Thanks for checking it out. Joe
If I'm going to the tourist area for the night, I usually just take US dollars. If I'm making a Baja run for a few days, Ill get pesos. You can find a dozen drive up windows near the border. If walking, they have 4 or 5 places as you walk in. 3 windows near the trolley McDonald's area. Thanks for watching. Joe
Thanks for the great informative video! New subscriber here. I’m heading to Tijuana for the 1st time next week. Do you think it’s safe to cross alone on foot at 9 or 10pm on a weekday? I’ll have a small suitcase and backpack and just want to catch a cab to Hong Kong from the border.
Sure 10pm is fine. I often cross around 11pm. You might see the Hong Kong limo. He works for tips. Or the cabs will be waiting 24 hours a day. $6 is the cost. If its slow maybe $5. Uber is a little slow for me to get a car, but its about $3. Others have better luck. I forget how the Hong Kong VIP works. Check it out online. Discounts at the hotel on Mon, Tue (I think) might be worth the cost. Thanks for subscribing and enjoy your trip. Joe
Hi, I'm planning a trip down to TJ from LA in a couple weeks. Is Ped West currently open to cross into the border? Or do I need to cross via Ped East? I'm gona be driving down and planning to park in one of the lots at either Ped West (if it's open) or Ped East (which seems to have much smaller lots). Thanks
I'm not sure. I moved to Thailand in July. Watch my video on walking into Tijuana. Exit at the last freeway entrance. The first large parking lot is near Pedwest. I think it's open now. You'll see hundreds walking towards it. Otherwise, it's a mile walk to Pedeast. Just follow the crowd and ask a few people. Many cross everyday. Have a good trip. Check out my Bangkok videos, too. This place is great.
That's good to know. I'm 54 so I don't push things these days. If it's Vietnam, Australia or Mexico, I know I'll be cool with a current passport. Shoot some countries will give you a hard time if you have a torn page. The next time I renew, I'll include a passport card. Way better than hauling the passport around.
@@EagerExpat hey Eager. Great video 👍.. I'm planning a trip soon . I used to go all the time. quick questions for ya. If we park at pedi west and order an uber will that take us all the way to the cascadas? (If so that seems Iike the best option to avoid paying for the fmm) I heard Adelitas Is temporarily closed due to the recent murder that happened last week. But I hear it had more of an open floor plan then the Hong Kong club .
@@ruffianomega I haven't taken an Uber in to TJ, but I heard it's possible with an extra fee. I think it's the ride cost (Plus $25? fee) I've tried ordering an Uber 3 times when I parked near PedEast as an experiment. 3 times in a month it said a car was unavailable. I think you need to get lucky and find a Uber driver heading back home to Tijuana. Unless the driver has Sentri, it could take hours to return to the US. There are some "freelancers" that hang out near the Jack N Box that try to make a few bucks loading the car and heading back into Mexico. I probably wouldn't go this route. Who knows what this guy has in his car. Every now and then taxi's are returning to TJ. They usually hang out around the Jack N Box too. If you had 4 guys it may be worth the high fee. I'd guess $50 (I'm sure the bidding will start much higher) Again, this is a guess. Some guys report Otay wasn't charging the FMM, but I'm not sure. If that's true, an Uber once you enter at Otay would be less than $10 bucks. Yes Adelita's was closed. I walked by yesterday when I made "walking to downtown Tijuana video." The speakeasy appeared to be back open. That tragedy did bring a lot of attention to the speakeasy bars. So who knows what the future holds, but yesterday it was all open. Thanks for the comment on my new channel. I'll be moving to SE Asia next year. In the meantime I'll be making more Mexico and California video's. Thanks for subscribing. Thanks, Joe
No that's only when flying from Mexico to the US. You can avoid that by flying to Tijuana and just walking across. No test needed for that. Thanks for commenting. I hope you consider subscribing. My new channel needs all the help I can get.
@John Smith Not walking or driving. If you fly from Mexico to a US airport, you might need to get a test. Hopefully they switch to showing vaccine proof soon. Just got my second shot today. Have a good trip. Joe
Hey thanks Jay. I appreciate the comment. I'm all about a goodtime, but keeping safe is always smart. I'm putting up California and Mexico videos before I move to Thailand next year. More travel type stuff, but hey the Zona is a big part of Tijuana. Hopefully you'll check some out. Thanks, Joe
@@memopadilla5931 Next year, hopefully around Sept 2022. I have a ticket to visit this Sept. Hope I can get in. I hope you consider subscribing and checking it all out. I'll be making California and Mexico videos until then. Take it easy Memo, Joe
Most of the area around the border is 2 hours only. There is a stretch aboutv1 mile from the border across from the outlets that is free. Better to park at Chula Vista trolley for free
I wish, but you can get your arm broke if they catch you filming in that place. Not really a a great idea. I will buy you a beer sometime if you want to head over. I'm not a regular, but I'll head down once in awhile.
@@EagerExpat I'm heading down to TJ at the end of April with @BubbleTea. We would love to meet ya, buy you some juicy tacos in exchange for juicy stories 😉
@Danny Gonzalez Yes I've seen trouble. In the club below they're more cameras than a Vegas casino. If you pull out a phone and start filming, they'll be all over you. I once saw them making a guy delete his clips. Another time a guy was drunk and refused to hand over his phone. He was escorted out (forcefully). The real problem is other customers. Most guys in the club wouldn't appreciate having their picture taken in a strip club in Tijuana. Much less being on RU-vid. Years ago a fight broke out. I asked our waiter. He said one guy was filming his buddies at the table and the guy in the next booth started yelling. "Why are you filming me". Mix in a dozen beers and bottles started flying. Way back in the day (15 years ago) they had a camera man. The girls would be at the table topless and posing like models. Half hour later you'd have the 8x10 in the Hong Kong paper frame like Disneyland. I guess the internet wrecked all that. I get it people want to see the inside of the club and all the action. There will be always be people with hidden cameras, etc.. Even if I could get away with it, I won't do it. There are a few videos on the internet that the club made. I think, 20 year anniversary, etc.. I'm sure they let everyone know filming was in progress. I try to be respectful. Even at the taco stand. I tossed a few extra bucks in the tip jar and asked if it was cool to take a picture. They said, sure go ahead. I pulled out the camera and a guy eating tacos ran away. He didn't want to be on anyone's camera. I get it.
@@AlphaBoost Ya, I'm always up for a Hong Kong run. Let me know when you guys are going. 99% chance I can go, at least for a few hours. Foot surgery is healing. Gotta work soon. At least until 2022
@@EagerExpat Awesome! Tentative plan is Apr 24-26, we're hitching a ride with Alberto (aka HKvipHost), from SD airport directly to TJ, bypassing the FMM you eluded to on the video 🤣 Should be a blast!! Speedy recovery on the foot!!
I just discovered ur channel Joe.....I subscribed.....I'm planning a trip down to TJ on monday or tuesday of next week for a couple of days......is that $30 visa something new?....all the times I would go down there never had to deal with that
Hey Tim, sorry for the late response. I just drove a hundred miles down to San Felipe. Yes the FMM used to be free for 72 hours, so they didn't bother. Then they started making you fill out the FMM. You would say, "I'm just going for 6 hours, etc.." They didn't charge. Then the "essential travel" hit. Rather than turning people around, they said you need a 180 day FMM. I guess they thought that might slow down traffic a little. Some guys get lucky. When the agent has a few guys in the office, they just get waved in. Myself, I've crossed about 5 times in the past few months. I just head to the Mexican side at customs. They check the date on the FMM and wave me in. Driving into Tijuana, they rarely stop cars. If you have a truck loaded with dirt bikes, etc.. your going to get pulled into inspection. In fact for the first time in hundreds of crossings at Calexico today, I got pulled over. He checked my car for 5 minutes. I was holding my passport and FMM. He saw it and didn't bother asking for it. So you can take your chance that you might not have to pay the FMM. I got caught at the start of the change. (Maybe Oct 2020) I thought it was a shakedown and respectfully asked for a supervisor. He said, that was the new procedure. He also said , no FMM and well turn you back to San Ysidro. So I got one. I need one anyhow for my Mexican car insurance. If I get in a car wreck, insurance or not, the FMM will probably be asked for.
I'm a dummy, you said you subscribed. I really appreciate that. I'll be honest, I'm doing more videos on other parts of Baja, etc.. and then I'm moving to Thailand. Hopefully some cool videos from Bangkok
Problem with Ubers on the zone were you cross to Mexico is that they are always fighting regular taxi service. But there is other option DiDi. Other great advise you already gave don't make trouble if you don't want to get in trouble remember Police love Dollars in Mexico.
I have gone in and out of both Tijauna and Mexi-Cali. Drove my SUV in. Never did I have a passport or a Visa. Just my California Drivers License. Done it my entire life and I am 59 years old. Last time I went across the border was 2020
Yes many people do. I forget the date it changed. Maybe 10 years ago. Entering the US from Mexico and Canada you are suppose to have a passport. If you're a citizen, they'll let you back in with a drivers license. If you drive into Mexico rarely are you stopped. If you walk in you'll have to show a passport. With "essential" travel, $31 is the cost for the FMM 180 day visa. If you say no, they say your trips not essential and back to the US you go. Reports lately are the FMM is back to free for short visits. But the passport is a requirement. Can you "usually" get away without having one, yes. Will that be an expensive ticket one day? Today its not, that I agree with
Not sure of the exact dates. Adelitas is old school, but it's remodeled. I know I was in Chicago in the early 1990s. Hong Kong was very small in early 90s. It kept knocking down walls and today its a large 3 story club.
I'm kicking myself now I lived 30 years in LA and never visited TJ... Now I gotta fly for over 16 hours to get to LA.. BUT I'm gonna make it someday soon and when I do I'm staying for 2 weeks in TJ lol.. How about red lights in Rosarito and Ensenada???
Not sure they're doing the FMM (180 day) thong in El Paso. It's hit or miss here in Tijuana. You might want to drive instead of walk. That seems to avoid the FMM in San Diego.
Great video! I was in Tijuana recently told them I was visiting family so they didn’t end up making me pay for the FMM. My question is, during your visit did you get stopped by the police at all? I was stopped twice even though I had done nothing wrong at all one time was just walking close to Hong Kong (not going in) they got out ran to me and searched me which they found nothing because that’s not my style. The second time I was in a taxi and we got pulled over and I got searched and the taxi driver got searched then he tried to make me pay his ticket cost. I was just curious if this was because there are not as many tourist and police just want money that they saw a white guy and thought I was an easy target or if it was just a bad luck type of ordeal. Also how would I ask about buying an FMM for next time sorry for all the questions I’m just new to traveling over the border.
Sorry for the late response. I'm filming in San Felipe and have been away from the internet. Sorry to hear the police issues. Maybe others have had worse luck than me. I am 54 with a gray beard, so maybe that's helped me? I've been hanging out in Baja since I was 16 and have never had an issue with the police. I do remember some tourist police that liked to hang out by the bridge as you walked toward PedEast. There was a problem with a few bad apples. If you were stumbling "a little" you got put in the back of a police car until an "agreement" was paid. Still, even then I just walked by those guys and said hello. I will say, the half dozen times a year I'm near the Hong Kong, I usually walk straight in. When I leave I get a taco and jump in a cab. When I film these clips I did have three cops drive by in the half hour I was standing outside the club. One gave me a look and might have wondered what I was hanging out for. This is just my opinion, but you might have been standing too close to a drug dealer or something. This is just a guess. My buddies or myself have never been searched and questioned. But it's always possible. I have never been pulled over pulling into Mexico. Maybe 500 trips driving. That record ended yesterday in Calexico. I pulled in and was waved to the side at customs. Every door and trunk was opened. Glove box and center console all tossed on the floorboard. Duffle bag with folded clothes dumped out and rifled through. As I pulled away, a drug dog walked over. I saw him jump in the car next to me. Again like you, I had nothing to hide. I'm a visitor in Mexico and that's the rules they play by. As far as the cab. Sounds like he got pulled over for his driving. You mentioned he got a fine he wanted help with. Trying to pass that on to you is classic Baja. I once had a guy pull into the Pemex station and wanted me to help pay for gas. The getting searched is a little strange and hopefully will be the last time for you. Yes police officers don't make a ton of money. Some people think they are all corrupt, etc.. It's been my experience that most are honest and treat people with respect. Like I said in the video, if you give them a reason to get pissed, you might be "fined.' As far as the FMM, yes it's very hit an miss. Maybe you'll get lucky next time as well. If not it's no big deal. They will take you to an office and fill out the 180 day FMM. There is a bank window 10 feet away. If your forced to get the FMM ($31) I would say, ok I'll pay at the bank window after we fill out the form. Just say it respectfully. I felt stupid handing the guy my money when I saw the bank window as I walked away. Did he keep the cash? Who knows, probably. Best of luck and try to avoid walking around the area too much. I'd just head into a club and avoid the police. When I filmed these clips I had two cops roll by me. One gave me a look and I thought I might have an issue. I guess I did look a little suspicious. Sorry for the long response and any typos. Just banged it out really fast. Have fun in Baja. I'm gonna keep thinking most cops aren't out to get the tourists. Most Mexican folks (I'm half Mexican myself) are very honest people. When I filmed this video I saw some college age guys walking down the street drinking beers. I'm not sure if that's illegal or not. One guy then threw his empty against the wall and ducked into the alley to take a leak. Yes, most cops would have an issue with this guy. If I was a cop in Tijuana, I would have a real problem with guys disrespecting the city. Maybe (hopefully) you just had a cop that had a bad day. Again, this is just my opinion. I'm sure the guy peeing in the alley that had to give the cop $40, thinks the cops are all crooks. You seem like a normal guy, so hopefully you'll never have another issue. Thanks for subscribing. Joe
@@foresttemple1380 Weather was perfect. Especially for the snowbirds escaping the snow. It was about 80F in the day and 50F at night. I was there over the weekend. A few visitors from Mexicali and Tijuana, but it's still slow. Hopefully that picks up soon. I have more San Felipe footage to edit. Thanks for the comment. Joe
The best place to be back in the 80's was the famous Bambi Club. Spent 1985-89 in the Navy in San Diego. TJ use to be a great party place for the military. Times have really changed.
I'm not sure what's going on there. I do know you need to book for two guests if a "friend" is stopping over. Hyatt Place is my favorite. I just stayed at the one in La Paz. If it's Bangkok, Vegas or La Paz they're all the same. I guess so the business traveler feels at home. Thanks for the comment on my new channel. Hopefully I'll earn a subscription. I'll be making California and Mexico video's and then next year I'm moving to Thailand. Take it easy. Joe
Many people still get away with a DL license. 9 out of 10 agents just waive the DL guy back into the US. They can put you in secondary, etc.. That will just waste everyone's time. There going to let DL guy back into the US anyhow. Who know, maybe that will come with a ticket one day. A passport is needed in every country in the world when crossing borders
Eager Expat ? I was watching this other guy youtube channel, he forgot his passport or it was expired or something. He tried to sneak with in with a crowd and they pulled him into the office. Im not for sure but I think Mexico has some type of facial recognition system that links to a database for the US when your coming in. That database would have your passport, visa etc.
Yes it's really easy to visit Mexico. They have a few simple rules. It's not hard to just play by the simple rules. Thanks for checking out my new channel. Joe
Im wondering if uber has changed for the worse there during the pandemic like it did in America because ive had great experiences with uber in Mexicali, Tecate and Tijuana before the pandemic. I bragged about how good it is.
Uber (and a few other services I haven't used) work "ok." Compared to San Diego it's a little slow. A 15 minute wait seems to be normal. I was told to set the app to cash. Often times credit card rides get cancelled. If you find a good taxi driver, get his number. The guys at PedEast want $20 to go to the airport. My guy is $10. I call when I'm leaving my car and he's waiting when I cross. An Uber might be $5, but I've also been cancelled twice and took 45 minutes to get to the airport.
@@blue-eyed-bandit I was in Mexico City at Christmas. Uber worked perfect and cars arrived in minutes. Way cheaper than cabs for those 10 mile rides. See ya later.
After all that BS , I'm glad I stay in the valley in Texas and cross the border at Progreso . $2 Parking and a 5 minute walk and your in. Good food, cheap drinks. And you can buy all the junk you can carry.
I hear ya Mike. Tijuana is cool, but its almost a part of California. Everything is expensive. Thailand next year when I retire. Although ill visit my buddies in Austin. Later, Joe
Hey one more question what if I want to drive in to mexico, can I get all required documents at the border? I have my passport but I heard you need other documents
If you drive in (so far so good in Feb 2021) you won't be stopped, so no FMM charge. When you return to the US, check out my video on driving back to the US. The US agents only care about the passport. Plus a few questions. Where you going, where you coming from etc.. Routine. Have a great time. I'm a new channel. I'd sure appreciate if you considered subscribing. Take it easy. Joe
I'm a single guy and my bday is coming up, ive been looking up about this Hong Kong club in TJ and it sounds like fun but is it really worth it ? Are the girls in that club worth going for ? being single in California these days just sucks lol 😂
It's very popular. For good reason. It can be really busy on the weekend. If you go Fri or Sat get there before 7:00. Go check it out and have a goodtime. Thanks for checking out my new channel. I hope you'll consider subscribing. Thanks, Joe
Its a large city with large city crime. Common sense in TJ will keep you safe. Take cabs, avoid drunken 3 mile walks at 1am. Common sense and you'll be fine
Thanks. Check out the comment from Diego T. I think setting your Uber to "cash option" will help. I have mine set (like in the US) to credit card. I think that might be why I never get picked up.
@@EagerExpat I traveled on Feb. 1 and 2 and had the same problem. We called the uber from our hotel using my US account to travel less the short distance from the hotel to the airport, and the uber after 20 minutes each time cancelled. We ended up catching a cab for the approx 1 mile ride and it was 10 USD. The taxi no monopoly in TJ is strong. I think they have the uber drivers intimidated. We are in Guanajuato right now so we will see how it is here.
I’ve been to Mexico over 100 times over the last 2 years ( my fiancé from Venezuela moved There while she waited for her visa). I’ve filled out the FMM maybe half the time but never been charged, EVER
That's good to hear. Since last Oct, Pedeast stopped the free FMM for 72 hour visits for most people. The $31 FMM is for 180 days. Everyone has been told "essential travel only." Getting the 180 day visa solved that issue. I've walked across a dozen times since Dec. Every time they check my FMM to make sure its within 180 days. Reports are Otay crossing doesn't bother. I've also crossed when it was 50/50 if they bothered with the free FMM. That started about 4 years ago. The "essential" thing started in Oct 2020. I'm glad you didn't get charged. But the majority of folks have to get the $31 dollar deal. One guy on RU-vid thought it was a shakedown and refused. They walked him back across the border and handed him to US Customs. I hope it goes away soon. In the meantime I needed to warn others to expect the 180 day FMM only. If they get lucky, that's great
Yeah, me too. I've filled it out but never been charged. I understand if you're traveling on the highway further south (south of rosarito) and you don't have the FMM paid and all paperwork in order you're in big trouble.
Uber dropped me off at the Beyer Trolley Station, driver told me that he won't drive across into Mexico. However, there are Uber drivers in Mexico that will take you wherever you want
Yes, unless you get someone from Tijuana who's driving Uber and heading home, nobody will deal with the border wait to return. Plus they used to have a $25(?) fee on top of the Uber charge. But, like you said you can walk across and Uber or Taxi fairly cheap. Thanks for watching
I don't agree about Uber, the only drawback is that you need to have a signal and sometimes it takes a while for your phone to switch to the Mexican cell towers. But uber works very well in TJ, including at the border gates. It use to be cheaper, like 2.50 but lately it's gone up
Its not been my experience. Recently we were near Chollas stadium. Roaming on a Mexican tower. Ordered the Uber and its said 10 min away. 15 min later it said 2 min away, then cancelled. Next Uber said 7 min away. It said that for 15 min. After 20 min the car showed up. I had a driver tell me if your account is set to credit card, drivers often cancel. They prefer Uber cash. Compared to San Diego, I give my Uber about 20 minutes to show. I usually dont bother unless its the $20 cab ride to the airport. Im 5 star Uber, etc.. In Mexico City or even Ensenada it works (for me) flawless. In Tijuana ill open the app and see 5 cars within a block. The best I've had is a 15 minute wait. Then its cancels about 25% of the time. My buddy had the same experience. I love Uber, but in 500 plus rides I've never been cancelled after 15 minute wait. In TJ in 20 or 30 rides, its happened at least 10 times. Again maybe its my account, etc.. I always tip and it says 5 star rider. So who knows. Thanks for checking out the video. Joe
@@EagerExpat yeah, its just different, experiences, I never use taxis, I always use uber and it works fine. I think ive been cancelled a couple of times but somebody picked it up right away, its never delayed me. I also use Ubereats and it works fine also. On a side note, there is a Mexican competitor called Didi, I'm gonna try and use that one next time I go, they says its cheaper and better that Uber
I need to try Didi too. I love Uber. I was just in Ensenada and it worked great 8 trips. Ill give it another try in TJ. Thanks for the comment. Take it easy, Joe
@@EagerExpat So let me ask you this question again because it sounds to good to be true. What you are saying is that as long as I am on foot and I walk across the border from Tijuana into the United states the customs agents at the u.s. border will not ask me for a negative test result for COVID19 to enter back into the United states?
@@tonylane8813 I just went to the tailor in Tijuana tonight. I walked back into the US. The only questions were the same in the last 20 years. Anything to declare? Where you going? No big deal. Things can always change, but the negative test (as of today) is just flying. You can walk or drive and it's not an issue.
@@EagerExpat okay very well then I guess it's goodbye to Colombia. I was going to Colombia for vacation but my I guess Tijuana Mexico is a better option. Because colombian customs agents are going to ask me for a negative COVID19 test result and the same thing as I return to the United states of America the customs agents here will Also ask me for a negative COVID19 test result. Thank you for letting me know so that I can make a better decision. Also I heard that there's a lot of robbery that's going on in Colombia right now.
@@tonylane8813 Yes unless the Washington folks change the rules, you should be fine in Tijuana. It's still technically "essential travel" but that's left up to you to determine essential. Thousands are crossing back and forth each day. Including me tonight and I'll go back Saturday to get my clothes back from the tailor. Good luck with your trip
I'm not a pro with the hotels. A lot of guys stay right in the action at the Cascades. I also hear the Tucan is popular. Others pay a little extra for a nice [place like the Pueblo Amigo, Hyatt Place or Marriott. You'll have to travel ($5) to the Zona
So do you ask the dancers for services and to go back to hotel room or are there other designated girls? How do u tell which girls u can pay for services with and how do u go about asking them?
All the girls in the club are workin girls. You just politely ask. They tell you the price. You negotiate. Then they walk with you next door to the hotel. Easy peasy
That was the last time I was there. I'm in Tahiti with a friend who was there a month ago. So, it's pretty much the same. How to get there should still apply
You should be able to enter Mexico with an Enhanced Drivers license. These license's are issued with proper documentation by five northern states for access into Canada and Mexico by land only.
That's good to know. I just put up a video "Heading to the tailor in Tijuana" Well, I went again yesterday about 4:30pm. A nice younger couple was rolling a suitcase toward PedEast. I asked if they were heading to the airport. Warn them about the taxi ($20 guy) when you first enter TJ. (Uber can be tricky, but it's $5 or $6 bucks.) I got in a long line to get pesos. They kept walking in. When I finally entered Mexico I showed my passport and FMM Visa and cruised in. The young couple was standing in a line of (10 or so) people at the small office as you pass Mexican immigration. They had passports, but looked like the FMM 180 day ($31) form was being enforced. Best of luck. Baja is great. In the past few years I've entered Chile, Peru, Argentina, Australia and a dozen more countries. Most have a tourist fee. Argentina used to be almost a $100. Today I think it's $20. Most of the time it's just rolled into the ticket cost, so nobody notices. Thanks for the comment. I'm a new guy, hopefully you'll consider subscribing. It really helps so RU-vid will show my video's. Later, Joe
They never closed. Did they tell you that on the news? 🤣 i crossed regularly throughout the pandemic. No isuues. Border didnt close. At one time for cars they restricted to less lanes thats all.
I only use uber exclusively as I hate the taxis down there. More convenient. Never had a prob with ubers. I drive across and park at pueblo amigo paid parking save $ vs parking US side then call an uber.
That sounds like a good plan. I still use Uber in TJ, but I seem to get cancelled often. I'm 5 star, etc.. But, it can be a great savings. Especially with rides to the airport. Thanks for the comment and checking out the video. Joe
Thanks John. That makes sense. The 180 day FMM is more for folks heading to a second home, etc.. for 6 months? I got tagged with the FMM in Oct 2020 and have walked across 3 or 4 times since. They just wave me past. One guy did make sure it was within the 180 days. That would suck if they started asking for a 180 FMM every entry. Hopefully back to a free 72 hour FMM soon. Or better yet, they just ignore it. Do you agree it's a good idea to have a current FMM if you get Mexican Insurance and drive into Baja? I'm in Baja now. I've always thought an accident might be a reason I "could" be asked for the FMM. Years ago, I went diving and was told I needed an FMM (Got a 72 hour one) in case the coast guard inspected the boat. Not sure if that is still in effect. Thanks for the comment.
Uber is generally the way to go in TJ except for when you cross at san ysidro, that's taxi territory. Nowadays I find that gringo taxi prices are about $10USD to revolution now. it used to be $5 pre covid. What you missed is if you're just going straight to HK after you cross and walk down the walk way, there's a little dirt parking lot, that's where HK has their limo shuttle. It's free, just tip the driver a buck or two. There will be a little hut with a dude working it. I've never used it but that's the way to go if you're just going to HK. They'll take you back there too, again just tip the driver. Norte isn't that dangerous. Just don't engage with the street people. The cops will think you are buying drugs, worst case scenario. My first time there pre-covid I engaged with this dude just to say no thanks and he ended up following me around for ten minutes suggesting places to go, because I kept responding back and being polite. I ended up paying him 100 mex just to get him to leave me be, LOL. Lesson learned. Just say no thanks, and keep walking like you know where you're going. Even if you don't. Just walk towards the arch if you're going back to revolution. You won't get rolled but there's drug dealers, pick pockets and cops looking to shake down dumb drunk gringos/gringos trying to buy drugs. Don't fall into those categories and you'll be ok. Another Uber story, my last trip there I decided to try on my way back trying to cross at otay mesa to save myself standing in line for 2 hours. The wait time website said foot crossing at pedeast was 2 hours otay mesa was no line. Great. So I hailed an uber, got connected with this dude who was rated 99.9 or something. I'm waiting at the 7-11 right by the arch. I see him coming both on the app and visually but he hangs a right, I assume to get on the right side of the road. Instead of going around the block he sits and waits at what looked like somewhere around club tecate for 5 minutes, even though it clearly shows the meet point was 7-11 by the arch. He sends me a message 'where are you', then cancels. I hail two more, they accept and nope out two minutes later. Finally this cat with the lowest uber rating I've ever seen (I think it was like 95 percent or something) accepts, picks me up. His car is fine, he's fine as far as I can tell. When we get there I see why everyone was noping out. In order to get to the pedestrian entrance at otay mesa you have to make a left turn across 4 lanes of traffic, and the cops were there not allowing anyone to make the turn. He had to let me off at that intersection, a solid mile or more away from the spot. Maybe there was a way to get there, I don't know. I was nervous at first because I wasn't sure where I was but there was a giant assed side walk and plenty of vendors and such along the side of the road so it looked like it was conducive to lots of foot traffic. I finally get to the end of the road, walk through an open gate where an officer says 'passport please?'. At which point it was smooth sailing. I was literally the only person there. I've had too many long waits at San Ysidro. It doesn't seem to matter what time I arrive there. If the website says the line is short I recommend Otay Mesa going back to San Diego. If you can get there.
Good report. I used the HK shuttle many times. I live in Thailand today. I'm not sure if pedwest is open yet. The HK had a waiting lounge at Pedwest. Grab a, beer and wait for the limo. Just stay off that bridge at night. In the early 90s a few guys got killed. It's not as bad these days, but it's still shetchy. I wouldn't doubt it's $10 for a cab now. I just paid less than $2 to go 6 miles across Bangkok. I love this town
they need a travel visa now? i drove in there 4 to 5 times, no travel visa needed, they didn't even check my passport. On need passport when coming back
i never get asked for passport or anyone i know to get in to tj i think it depends on the person working there or something usually we just walk in quick
Do you and your buddies look like locals? Every time I enter they check my passport. Luckily they've laid off the $31 FMM. Back to free FMM fir short visits
I'm sorry to hear that. I've had folks comment "you don't need a passport" I agree they'll eventually let you back into the US, but it can come with a delay. That could also change to a fee (or ticket) one day. Things change. A passport or passport card makes things much easier
Curious…. Here in Az I cross into Mex without passport or visa…… just put your bag through the x ray and that’s it. Coming back I show my passport card. That would be Nogales, been doing I that way for a year now.
My buddy once went down there on his own and ordered 3 tacos at that stand. They understood it as 3 orders...so he ate 9 tacos. Also we always do that walk and have done for years. No problems, occasionally the police will hassle a group of guys late at night but worst case that's $20.
I just had six yesterday at another spot. I have to stand by avoiding that bridge at night. Especially for rookies. Walking with a small bankroll, maybe a $1000 phone makes you a target. Im not worried about the police. Maybe ten years ago, you had a 50/50 shot at 11pm of running into a gang of punks. Guys were getting hurt, way more than losing a 20. Its better today, but its can be trouble. For the cost of a beer, take a cab. Even if its a 5% chance of trouble, in my opinion not worth the risk
How big is your buddy?🤣🤣 just kidding You guys have to try tacos "el fraces" in playas. Best tacos in town, I understand they have a taco restaurant in downtown as well
@@andyboyd7511 I've no idea I'm not familiar with all places there yet but try el fraces, it is in playas de tijuana and I will try your when I come back! Cheers
You can take an Uber or Lyft. It will cost around $40. If you want to save a few bucks, take an Uber or the bus to the Santa Fe depot train station. Then take the trolley (Blue Line) to the border for $5. Takes about 50 minutes. Thanks for checking out my channel. Joe
CBX is easier, but it comes with that extra cost. Last time I flew out I crossed at San Ysidro and took an Uber to the airport. Cheaper than the CBX fee. Thanks for the comment. Joe
That was true before the "essential travel" rule. 72 hour visits or less, no charge FMM. Who knows if most of the cash is going into the agents pocket, but 180 day FMM is the order of the day. Technically it's a 1 entry FMM/visa for (up to) 180 days. They have been allowing multiple visits if you have the FMM that is valid. Just head to the Mexican citizens line and show the FMM. They'll waive you in. Some people claim they didn't get charged for the FMM. Maybe the guy was at lunch, etc.. 99% chance you'll get charged. And if you say you're heading to the dentist, they will call the dentist office. Have a great trip. If you haven't, I hope you subscribe. Thanks, Joe
@@camselle I hear ya. No charge (or stops) if you drive in. If you walk in, 99% chance if you have a US passport. $31 isn't bad to not get hassled for the next 6 months. Hopefully it will get back to normal soon. Have a good trip.
No, so far that's only when you fly from Mexico to the US. You can avoid this by flying to Tijuana instead. Then it's 20 miles to San Diego airport. So if you fly example Dallas to Cabo San Lucas roundtrip, you'll need the negative to return to Dallas. If they put that rule in place. I think they did. Walking or driving that isn't an issue as o Feb 2021. Thanks for checking out the channel. I sure would appreciate if you subscribed. I'm a new channel and trying to grow. Go for a visit. Shoot any questions my way. Take it easy, Joe
@@mike0817 Nah, the only issue is Mexico has did away with the free FMM visa for short visits. Some people are still getting in without the FMM 180 day visa ($31) but I'd say you have a 50% shot of having to pay for the FMM. Other people are having good luck crossing the border at Otay Mesa without paying the FMM fee. Myself, I usually have an FMM anyhow. It can be a problem if you get in a car accident. No FMM they might say your car insurance is no good. If you're walking, ya hopefully you'll avoid the FMM charge. The US agents could care less about the FMM when you return to the US. They don't care about essential travel either. They will ask where did you go, etc.. but they always do that. Just be honest. They're looking for bad guys smuggling, etc.. who are nervous. Not someone just going home.
Last time I tried, the agent said he would call the dentist. Maybe schedule that cleaning. The visa is technically a one entry visa for 180 days. What they've been doing is allowing multiple entries as long as the visa is within 180 days. About $30 bucks
@@EagerExpat I actually tried to pay for the visa pass online but that was for 90 dollars! I'll take my chances and pay the 30 dollars if necessary..and fyi appreciate the video on pueblo amigo..I'm thinking of staying there Friday 😁
@@danielceballos6559 Sounds like a huge handling fee. Bring your passport and walk in behind a large group of spring breakers. If the little room is full of people getting a visa, you might get lucky and waived in. You don't need the visa when you walk into the US or check in at Pueblo. If you do get waived into the little room, it takes 10 minutes to hear the essential travel only thing and there is a cashier window to pay the $31. You should bring up the cashier window just behind the customs counter. Otherwise the $31 might end up on a "pocket" Doesn't really matter as long as you get the visa. Make sure its dated for 180 days. Technically its a single entry visa. But as long as you have one within 180 days when you return on another trip, head to the Mexican residents line when entering. They check the date, see your passport (no stamp) and waived you in. Have a great trip. Let me know how it goes. Joe
@@danielceballos6559 Sorry for the messy email. Im typing on the stupid phone. I can't see everyone who subscribes. Hopefully you consider subscribing to my new channel. Like everyone, trying to grow so YT shows my clips. I would try and check in around 1:00 at Pueblo. Worst case, drop your bag and go have lunch. They have a bellman, etc.. Its top of the line. Parking is a mess on the US side on weekend. It varies but $12 for 8 to 10 hours on Friday and $20 on Sat is normal. $8 weekdays. The big lot by Pedwest used to be for 12 hours. The old hotel lot by Burger King "sometimes" does 24 deals. If you have an expensive car that might be a cost you need to pay. If you bring "like me" a 10 year old car, consider the trolley lot near H street or Palomar off the I-5. Its free and they lot has cameras and sometimes I see a trolley cop in the lot. Just avoid the Beyer lot. Last stop before the border. If there its a crook, they know your going to be gone at least 5 hours. The other lots are active with commuters, etc. Get a 1 way $2.50 ticket to the border. My parking video shows my favorite lot Gateway near Jack n Box. But again its costly on the weekend. If this is a once in awhile trip maybe pay at Gateway. If you're ok with the lot, get off at H street Chula Vista I5. Head east a block and turn left at Carl's Jr. Can't miss it. Maybe 200 spots. I've used this lot dozens of times, but its an open park n ride. But park at your own risk. Have a great trip. Joe
Yes, RU-vid is tricky. I have the same problem with channels I watch. I rarely turn on notifications. Hope you check out some of the videos I put out. Happy holidays. Joe
The Uber thing is false... you can order an Uber once you gross but their is a designated area where they do the pickups. If you order it and place yourself by the taxis the Uber driver will cancel or tell you to go to the designated area which is only like a half a minute walk away to the right if you’re facing the taxis
I hear ya. Diego mentioned he had good luck with Uber too. I walked well clear of the taxi area when I ordered the car. I was off to the left in (what I thought) was the designated area. Then I walked to Pueblo Amigo Hotel and got cancelled a 2nd time. Again, maybe I just had bad luck. I never had in the past. Diego commented because I had my app set to credit card was the reason I didn't get picked up. Are you set to "cash option". The time I got cancelled waiting at Azul's bar, leads me to believe the "cash setting" might be the way to go. Again all my hundreds of rides have been 5 star.
@@system6hostin Thanks John, I'll check that out. Diego mentioned changing Uber to "cash option" I haven't checked if I can change from credit card to cash. He said a driver told him, he cancels if he see's credit card. I guess they only get paid once (I think) a week from Uber.
hello Eager Expat i have 5 heart prescriptions drugs i take doctors prescriptions also prescription for viagra will i be able to take them across the mexican border
USD is fine. You might save a little if you use pesos. Depending on the exchange rate the merchant gives. Some might apply 20 pesos per dollar and another 19 pesos, etc.. Dollars is fine. But have plenty of smaller bills. If you hand a small merchant a 20 you might get change in pesos. In the Hong Kong you can use hundreds without a problem
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