Tijuana (also known as TJ) has a very different feel than its neighboring US cousin, San Diego. While you will find some similar food and friendly locals in both places, the official language in Tijuana (and Mexico) is Spanish, and there is more poverty there than in San Diego. I did not find as many tourists as I thought I would have in TJ. This may be due (at least in part) to the perceived danger there. I did not encounter any issues. Now, for a list of random facts about TJ:
- Donkeys are painted as zebras on Avenida Revolución.
- Mariachi bands in traditional Mexican dress are not merely a legend, they do in fact exist.
- Tipping 10% is normal.
- There is a restaurant called Caesar's – they claim to be the birthplace/home of the Caesar Salad.
- There is an alleyway called Colectivo 9, which is basically an outdoor food court. Here are two of my favorite restaurants found there, and delicious (vegetarian) food to try:
- Empanadas 19/87 - combo of 1 Terra, 1 Margarita, salad and the coconut water with nuts (yes, nuts in the coconut water).
- Indie Burgers - The Porto. - Baristi is a great cafe chain. Check out the one located on Avenida Revolución. Try the bagel sandwich (double Swiss cheese, no ham) and iced coffee with vanilla or caramel flavoring.
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