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

On the flip facet, many view Mexico via the lens of mainstream information — and that is the place many are lacking out on some actually astonishing locations which can be 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, however it’s really some of the visited locations in Mexico, because it’s brimming with vibrant tradition, stunning luxurious, unimaginable delicacies, some would say “wild” nightlife, and a beautiful shoreline that’s one way or the other 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 considered one of 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 tackle 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 truth, I guess feedback can be flooded with one thing alongside the strains 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 sturdy because the wifi sign on the ritzier facet 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 a large redevelopment and continues to remodel.

No matter in order for you a $20 therapeutic massage at Serenity Spa (my month-to-month “splurge”), an inexpensive 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 may nonetheless bar-hop safely alongside the newly constructed promenade. Just know, a number of blocks away, as an example, Amsterdam vibes begin to reveal the underbelly of Tijuana’s darker facet that actually does not outline the entire metropolis.

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

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

Sure, at first look, when crossing the Mexico facet, it’s possible you’ll encounter a number of beggars, questionable farmacias, and unpleasant filth roads, however in the event you can look previous that, you may discover a thrilling city playground you want you’d found sooner simply previous the eyesores.

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

As you absolutely 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 take pleasure in the perfect 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 hire.

According to Expatistan, TJ hire 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 wish to double dip, listed here are a few hacks to make crossing the ‘most visited border’ on the earth 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 could come to thoughts if you’re dreaming of Mexico’s excellent seashores, however Tijuana? Doubtful.

One purpose TJ hasn’t turn into a seashore vacation spot is the town’s aforementioned security considerations and the truth that swimming right here is not the perfect concept until 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 move infrastructure to discourage sewage spewage.

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

Until that day comes, you may nonetheless take pleasure in ample seashore 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 may ever must brush up in your Spanish abilities.

If you do insist on going for a swim with out crossing into San Diego, stunning Rosarito offers the perfect odds.

It’s a simple Uber trip down the coast and well-liked amongst surfers and households on trip. Just verify with the lifeguards first.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist primarily based in San Diego has visited 36 nations and written over 1000 articles with a give attention to sharing his personal journey experiences and shining a lightweight on lesser-known gems.