BajaNomad

Advice for a Visitor to TJ

Gypsy Jan - 2-28-2010 at 07:19 PM

OK, I know that by posting this I am opening myself up to all kinds of criticism (just, I hope) and, of course, ridicule, but there was a question about how to find Alta Cucina dining in the San Diego area and I chimed in to say, "Go to La Diferencia and La Querencia in TJ." and then, mischief ensued.

The dude wrote - "Josh and kare_raisu, I respect your opinions about food, but you don't know me nor what I do for a living, and you certainly don't know the basis of my opinion about travel into Tijuana. And while I don't wish to belabor this subject, I can tell you my opinions are derived not from the media, but from direct and sometimes first hand accounts of real life events involving American citizens not remotely connected to drugs or gangs. Most kidnappings are not reported to or by the media, and it is true most do not end in a permanent disappearance. Believe it or don't believe it, but on this subject you both know less than you think you know."

I wrote - "mcgrath, Not to belabor your sweeping statements, please provide details on these Americans you know that have been "kidnapped. We have Mexican-American friends whose family members were kidnapped during the height of the "El Teo" madness. Ransom was paid and the kidnapped people were released unharmed. I do not know of any American tourist not related to business activities that put them in the "high profile, target of acquisition" category that has been molested or interfered with in any way.

My husband and I frequently travel to TJ for business, medical services and/or to visit friends in their homes.

My advice to any traveler to TJ is the same I give to any of my friends who travel to third world countries: "Know Where You Go". Embrace the fact that you aren't in Kansas anymore and try to blend in. Don't wear expensive "brand label" clothing and leave the jewelery at home. Do not flash money. Be respectful, quiet and watch your six. "

k-rico - 2-28-2010 at 07:30 PM

As a resident of TJ I can't think of any good reason to visit TJ, except if you're looking for something that is hard to find or illegal in San Diego and is easy to find and legal in TJ.

Besides those things, why bother? It's not a pretty place.

But you're right, if you come here keep a low profile, stay alert, check six, and minimize your time on the street.

[Edited on 3-1-2010 by k-rico]

torch - 2-28-2010 at 08:45 PM

geeesse that is a pretty big paint brush

k-rico - 2-28-2010 at 08:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by torch
geeesse that is a pretty big paint brush


and it's just my opinion, you know what they say about opinions. ;)

torch - 2-28-2010 at 09:02 PM

yea I hear ya