Introduction

This exciting city is also the most dynamic border crossing in the country. Being the operational center of many national and foreign companies, Tijuana receives thousands of tourists annually for business purposes. Tijuana also boasts a strong assembly plant Industry that attracts more and more companies and people to come. Its border crossing is consider the largest of the world; it counts for 60% of foreign travelers going into United States. Tijuana is not just about business, but has many interesting and fun attractions.

There are plentiful hotels, nightclubs, bars and some of the best restaurants in Mexico, which offer traditional Mexican dishes as well as an endless selection of international cuisine. Many also offer a variety of music, including Nortena bands from the northern regions of Mexico, romantic trios, mariachis, rock and roll and even rap. Several smaller clubs are becoming known for showcasing some of the hottest emerging bands.

Tijuana boasts one of the most shopped streets in the world, Avenida Revolucion. Everyday this area is bustling with activity. If you want it, you'll find it here. Everything from leather goods, jewelry, and crafts to alcohol, pharmaceuticals, and clothing, and all at bargain prices. And don't forget a photo with the local Zonkeys (donkeys painted to look like zebras). You'll also find modern shopping malls and boutiques in the Zona Rio section of the city. Tijuana is considered a "free trade zone". Shoppers are permitted to bring back up to $400 worth of goods if they are legal in the U.S. including one liter of alcohol for each person over 21. Please be aware that you cannot bring live or dead animals, Cuban cigars, and some meats, plus most vegetables back across the border. Please see "Crossing the Border" in our General Information section.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Tijuana is in the Pacific Time Zone. There is nothing laid back about Tijuana. This town is buzzing with activity and business. Local businesses don't take siesta breaks, but work a more American-style 9 to 5 day, if not many more hours. Since the tourist come at all times of day and night, you'll usually find businesses open early and closing late at night.

You can call (direct dialing) and fax to anywhere in the world from Tijuana, using the facilities at your hotel or even the phone booths on the street. Use a Ladatel pre-paid phone card for the booths. They can be purchased in most stores. Major US long distance companies have also established Mexican 800 numbers for making calls charged to "calling cards". Beware of phone boxes which may charge 'out of this world' prices for a 10 minute call to the States.

Internet access is available in Tijuana, and some hotels may have access availability for their customers. There is are "Internet cafes" which assist both tourists & locals alike. The main post office is located on Calle 11 & Ave. Negrete. It is open from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday. You can also buy stamps at at the offices of CANACO on Revolucion & First. You will also find mailboxes throughout the city.

Tijuana has a modern international airport; Aeropuerto International Abelardo Rodriguez (66-83-2102) with over 50 commercial flights arriving daily. The airport is located on Carretera Internacional along the border east of downtown Tijuana in the Otay Mesa area. The airport is equipped with car rental agencies, restaurants, and shops. You'll also find a bank and ATM on the premises. Buses leave from the airport to downtown or the Central Bus Station near the airport.