Tijuana

Tijuana is a unique city in both Mexico and the world. It is the only Mexican border town that has close ties to a large USA city, San Diego. This relationship has given Tijuana a unique personality.

Because of its location and cheap labor, many businesses have moved or built factories here bringing prosperity to the city. Tijuana's reputation as a promised land has caused many people to migrate from the south of Mexico to jobs in the north. Many people arrive in Tijuana with big dreams but soon find out that life is just as hard - even with a job. Migration is a common theme to Tijuana. A large percentage of Tijuana's population crosses to the "other side" (San Diego). On a daily basis thousands of people cross the border each morning to work and return home in the evening. Thus, Tijuana is not a typical Mexican city. It has a strong blend of cultural influences from all the states of Mexico, as well as California.

This migration has given Tijuana a bad reputation that is not necessarily deserved. Many Americans’ perceptions come from the party scene offered in a few city blocks of downtown Tijuana. Just like any city, Tijuana has more to offer than clubs and drinking. Unlike other large Mexican cities that can offer historical artifacts, Tijuana is relatively new much like western American cities but can still offer many of the cultural aspects that have made Mexico a beautiful country. The main way in which students will experience this culture is through the food and hospitality. Thankfully this is one area that American culture has not greatly influenced and therefore presents a welcome change.

Though Tijuana is not the ideal Mexican city for a history lesson, its people offer all that you need to fall in love with the culture.

Quick Facts

Population: apx 1.3 million (San Diego: apx 1.3mil)

Size: 246 square miles (San Diego: 372 sq mi)

Density: 5,729 per square mile (San Diego 1,494 sq mi)

Sights of Tijuana Gallery