Why This Surprising Beach City In Mexico Has Become A Haven For Digital Nomads

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Everyone has an opinion on Mexico.

Some assume it is a phenomenal nation to trip in, nearly anyplace, whether or not it is a timeless colonial city or a world-class seaside vacation spot.

On the flip aspect, many view Mexico by way of the lens of mainstream information — and that is the place many are lacking out on some actually astonishing locations which are misunderstood.

Here at Travel Off Path, we perceive the significance of travel advisories and crime statistics, whereas additionally trusting our personal boots-on-the-ground expertise.

One such metropolis has been designated “dangerous” for years, nevertheless it’s truly one of the crucial visited locations in Mexico, because it’s brimming with vibrant tradition, shocking luxurious, unbelievable delicacies, some would say “wild” nightlife, and a beautiful shoreline that’s in some way under-hyped.

As a frequent customer myself, this misbranded metropolis is my go-to for dipping my toes into digital nomad waters because it’s inexpensive, enjoyable, welcoming — and sure, it even feels safer than quite a few U.S. cities.

Yes, Tijuana Is Well Worth Calling Home

Recently highlighted as one among Mexico’s unsung digital nomad locations, do not simply take it from me — Tijuana is on the up-and-up for distant employees.

Yes, I’ve visited Tijuana a whole bunch of occasions, provided that my deal with is nearer to the border than downtown San Diego.

As such, I’ve seen the inflow of laptops at cafes — in addition to extra cafes opening up store. If I had written this text years in the past, it would not have felt truthful.

In reality, I wager feedback can be flooded with one thing alongside the traces of “if you show your laptop in Tijuana, you’ll end up buying it back at the swap meet mañana!”.

My private favourite place to work is Jose Cafe, the place espresso is simply as robust because the wifi sign on the ritzier aspect of the town, however downtown is a superb choice too, because it’s walkable and crammed with cafes and stylish bars.

Downtown (generally often known as Revolucion) has undergone an enormous redevelopment and continues to rework.

No matter if you’d like a $20 therapeutic massage at Serenity Spa (my month-to-month “splurge”), an affordable cerveza at El Toro’s rooftop, or the ‘unique Caesar Salad’ that may knock your socks off, you’ll by no means really feel misplaced or unsafe exploring like this metropolis has been represented.

Even within the wee hours of the evening, you possibly can nonetheless bar-hop safely alongside the newly constructed promenade. Just know, a couple of blocks away, as an instance, Amsterdam vibes begin to reveal the underbelly of Tijuana’s darker aspect that actually would not outline the entire metropolis.

Be Like Me: Enjoy The Best Of Both Worlds 🇲🇽🇺🇸

So-called “border towns” have a foul rap. But Tijuana is a bustling metropolis that simply occurs to be situated on the border.

Sure, at first look, when crossing the Mexico aspect, you might encounter a couple of beggars, questionable farmacias, and unpleasant filth roads, however when you can look previous that, you will discover a thrilling city playground you would like you’d found sooner simply previous the eyesores.

Living so near Tijuana has been a blessing — it seems like I can journey the world in quarter-hour.

As you certainly know, “California” and “cheap” do not belong in the identical sentence. That’s the place Tijuana comes into play, being a stone’s throw from San Diego.

You can get pleasure from one of the best of each worlds. Visit SoCal’s famend seashores and even have an annual membership on the world-famous San Diego Zoo, all whereas making your base in “TJ” (as locals say) to avoid wasting on lease.

According to Expatistan, TJ lease at present averages $1,124 in ritzy neighborhoods, and $566 elsewhere.
For what it is value, I pay $1,950 within the San Diego ‘burbs (are you able to hear me crying?).

Should you need to double dip, listed here are a few hacks to make crossing the ‘most visited border’ on this planet a breeze:

1) Apply for a SENTRI move:

• Gives entry to unique quick lanes when re-entering the U.S. from Mexico
• Costs about $120 and lasts 5 years

2) Make use of the CBX:

• Walk straight from Tijuana’s airport (TIJ) to the U.S. by way of a non-public skybridge (air journey solely)
• Tickets usually run $25 – $45

Tijuana’s Beach Scene Is Understated

Sure, Baja might come to thoughts while you’re dreaming of Mexico’s excellent seashores, however Tijuana? Doubtful.

One purpose TJ hasn’t turn out to be a seaside vacation spot is the town’s aforementioned security issues and the truth that swimming right here is not one of the best concept except your concept of enjoyable is wading in sewage run-off.

Yeah… me neither…

But ‘The Playas’ surroundings is not any much less stunning than close by San Diego, or additional alongside the Baja coast, Rosarito. Best of all, the federal government has lastly committed to upgrading its water stream infrastructure to discourage sewage spewage.

Will this be an in a single day success? No — nevertheless it’s a much-needed begin.

Until that day comes, you possibly can nonetheless get pleasure from ample seaside days with fixed sunshine, quite a few bars and eating places serving contemporary seafood, and an embracing expat group, the place it is unlikely you will ever have to brush up in your Spanish abilities.

If you do insist on going for a swim with out crossing into San Diego, stunning Rosarito provides one of the best odds.

It’s a straightforward Uber journey down the coast and widespread amongst surfers and households on trip. Just verify with the lifeguards first.