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Mexico

Mexico, officially known as the United Mexican States, is the third-largest country in Latin America and the 11th most populous in the world, with over 126 million people. It shares borders with the United States to the north and Guatemala and Belize to the south, with coastlines along the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. Mexico has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, blending indigenous traditions from civilizations like the Aztecs and Maya with Spanish influences from colonial rule. The country has a federal government system with 31 states and Mexico City as its capital. Mexico’s economy is one of the largest in Latin America, driven by industries like manufacturing, oil production, agriculture, and tourism. Spanish is the official language, but many indigenous languages, such as Nahuatl and Maya, are still spoken. The country is known for its vibrant cuisine, including tacos, tamales, and mole, as well as its contributions to art, music, and cinema. Mexico experiences diverse climates, from deserts in the north to rainforests in the south, and is home to significant biodiversity, ranking among the most megadiverse countries in the world.

Mexico Facts

Tourist Advice

  • Safety: Like any major city, be aware of your surroundings. While Tijuana has a reputation for crime, most tourist areas are relatively safe, especially if you stick to well-traveled spots and take basic precautions.

  • Travel Documents: If you’re coming from the U.S., you’ll need a valid passport or passport card to cross the border. Make sure to have it handy when returning to the U.S.

  • Border Crossing: The San Ysidro Port of Entry is the busiest border crossing in the world. Be prepared for long wait times when returning to the U.S., especially during peak hours or weekends. Consider using the Ready Lane if you have a U.S. passport for faster processing.

  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services in Tijuana. Generally, 10-15% of the bill is a good tip, though it may vary based on the service.

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Cultural Facts

  • Cultural Diversity: Mexico is home to over 60 indigenous groups, each with distinct languages, customs, and traditions.

  • Music and Dance: Traditional Mexican music (Mariachi, Ranchera, Banda) and dances like the Jarabe Tapatío play a central role in cultural expression.

  • Festivals: Celebrations like Día de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo are integral to Mexican culture and reflect its rich traditions.

  • Art and Literature: Mexico has a strong artistic and literary heritage, with notable figures like Frida Kahlo and Octavio Paz shaping its identity..

  • Craftsmanship and Architecture: Traditional crafts like Talavera pottery and alebrijes highlight Mexican artistry, alongside a blend of colonial and modern architecture.

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Mexican Cuisine

  • Tacos – Soft or crispy tortillas filled with a variety of meats (like al pastor, carnitas, or carne asada) and topped with fresh ingredients such as onions, cilantro, and salsa.

  • Tamales – Corn dough filled with meats, cheese, or beans, wrapped in a corn husk and steamed, making for a savory and hearty meal.

  • Mole – A rich, complex sauce made from ingredients like chocolate, chili peppers, and spices, usually served with chicken or turkey.

  • Enchiladas – Tortillas rolled around a filling, then smothered in a chili sauce, and often topped with cheese, sour cream, or onions.

  • Chiles Rellenos – Large, mild peppers stuffed with cheese, meat, or beans, then battered and fried.

  • Pozole – A traditional Mexican soup made with hominy (dried corn kernels), meat (typically pork or chicken), and garnished with shredded cabbage, radishes, and lime.

  • Quesadillas – Tortillas stuffed with cheese, meats, or other fillings, then folded and grilled until crispy and gooey.

  • Sopes – Thick corn cakes topped with refried beans, lettuce, cheese, salsa, and your choice of meat.

  • Ceviche – Fresh seafood (typically shrimp or fish) marinated in citrus juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chili peppers for a fresh, tangy dish.

  • Tostadas – Crispy tortillas topped with beans, meats, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa, served as an open-faced snack or meal.

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Tijuana Tourist Advice​

  • Stay in Well-Travelled Areas     Stick to popular, well-patrolled tourist zones like Avenida Revolución and Zona Río to ensure a safer experience.

  • Be Cautious at Night
    Avoid walking alone in less-populated areas after dark and always use taxis or rideshare apps like Uber when traveling at night.

  • Secure Your Belongings
    Keep valuables close and be mindful of your surroundings in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing.

  • Use Reliable Transportation
    Use Uber or licensed taxis to avoid potential scams, and always confirm the fare before getting in a cab.

Tijuana

Facts about Tijuana

Tijuana, Mexico, is the largest city in the state of Baja California and one of the busiest border cities in the world, located just south of San Diego, California. With a population of over 2 million people, it is a major economic and cultural hub, known for its strong connection to both Mexican and American influences. Tijuana is a key center for manufacturing, with numerous maquiladoras (factories) producing goods for export. It is also famous for its street food scene, particularly tacos, and is considered the birthplace of the Caesar salad, which was created at Caesar’s Restaurant in the 1920s. The city has a vibrant nightlife, a growing craft beer industry, and a thriving arts scene, with places like Avenida Revolución and Pasaje Rodríguez showcasing local culture. Tijuana is also a major entry point for immigrants and has a diverse population, with influences from all over Mexico. Despite its past reputation for crime, the city has seen significant growth in tourism and business investment. The San Ysidro Port of Entry between Tijuana and San Diego is the busiest land border crossing in the world, with hundreds of thousands of people crossing daily for work, shopping, and travel.

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Things to do and see in Tijuana

Avenida Revolución

Stroll along this famous street for shopping, dining, and nightlife.

 

Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT)

Explore the museum, aquarium, and theater showcasing Mexican culture and art.

 

Pasaje Rodríguez

 A vibrant alleyway filled with street art, boutique shops, and unique cafes.

 

Caesar’s Restaurant

Visit the birthplace of the Caesar salad and enjoy the iconic dish in its original setting.

 

Tijuana Arch

 Take a photo with the city’s iconic landmark, which marks the entrance to the city.

 

Plaza Río Tijuana

Shop and dine at this popular shopping mall, offering a mix of international and local brands.

 

El Popo Market

 Experience authentic Mexican street food and shop for local crafts and goods.

 

Museo de las Californias

 Discover the history of Baja California and Tijuana through exhibits on local culture and heritage.

 

Playas de Tijuana

 Relax at the beach and enjoy the ocean views, with some spots offering live music and entertainment.

 

Arenas de Tijuana

 Catch a live event, such as a bullfight or concert, at the city’s iconic bullring.

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