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Ordinary Traveler / Blog / Mexico / Algodones, Mexico – The New Tijuana?

Algodones, Mexico – The New Tijuana?

By Christy Woodrow, Last Modified: December 24, 2015

There's a new Tijuana in Mexico, and it's called Algodones

 

There’s a new Tijuana in Mexico, and it’s called Algodones.

 

Now that Tijuana is unsafe for travelers, we have searched out a new border town for those of you who are in need of a quick Mexico fix.

Algodones, Mexico may not be a party town like Tijuana, but if you are looking for cheap dental work, prescriptions at a steal, or colorful Mexican blankets, then Algodones will not disappoint. On the other hand, if you are looking for two for one drinks and all-nighters at a club, then this is not the town for you. Many of the snowbirds of Canada and the United States who stay in Yuma, Arizona to warm up during chilly winters, call Algodones their second home.

The town of Algodones only covers a four block radius, but it is said there are more pharmacies, dentists and opticians than a similar four block area anywhere else in the world. I’ve been told that most of the dentists are U.S. trained and are actually people who live in the States.

Scott and I made our way from Yuma over to the Mexican border by parking in the lot on the US side. The security going into Mexico is a breeze, meaning there really isn’t any security except a guy sitting at a chair reading a newspaper.

My uncle and my mom decided to join us during this excursion and it seems my uncle knows all the vendors in Algodones, which made for an interesting day. Everyone is extremely friendly in town, but don’t count on walking past any vendors without being hassled to buy trinkets and housewares. My favorite sales pitch of the day… “Lady, you buy a purse to add to your collection!” I guess I found it funny that he assumed I owned a purse collection.

There's a new Tijuana in Mexico, and it's called Algodones

The highlight of my day was eating awesome Mexican food for cheap. Even though I live in a Mexican food capital, San Diego, for some reason I still think Mexican food tastes better when you are actually eating it in Mexico. You can eat like a king at most restaurants in Algodones for $10 per person, or take my mom’s suggestion and purchase shrimp tacos from the street stalls for $1.50 each.

The second best part of my day was a trip to Alexandra’s hair-salon for a much-needed haircut. They will wash, cut, dry and style your hair for $7. Scott’s cut was $6, which according to my mom is $2 more than she pays at her regular hair salon in town which happens to be closed on Sundays.

After dodging countless salesmen on the street, we finally made our way to the pharmacy. You can legally bring 90 days supply of pills across the border back into the States. We bought a bottle of Mucinex for $6, which normally costs $30 or more back at home. Don’t count on getting any controlled substances, such as opiates, without a prescription. I know what you were thinking.

It also makes me happy to know there is a safe place where I can get some dental work done when I need it in the future. Something that would cost $3000 without insurance in the States, can be less than $500 in Algodones. Just another reason why I love Mexico!

If you want to learn more about the neighboring area of Yuma, Arizona, check out our article and captivating photo essay of the Yuma Prison.

There's a new Tijuana in Mexico, and it's called Algodones
 

For more Mexico travel resources & tips, visit these pages:

Where to Stay in Cabo, Mexico

Villa Del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Barra De Navidad: Discover Mexico’s Best Kept Secret

Top Things to See & Do in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Cenotes, Caves & Zip Lines – Oh My!

Where to Stay in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

 

About Christy Woodrow

Christy Woodrow is a travel photographer and professional blogger based in San Diego. She has been traveling around the world with her partner, Scott, since 2006. Join them in their quest to find off-the-beaten-path destinations by signing up for weekly emails. You can read more about her on our about page.

Filed Under: Mexico

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Ann Phoenix says

    How do you get the big pots back, will someone walk them to the border for you? Are the shops close to the border?

    Reply
    • Ordinary Traveler says

      Hi Ann. Yes, the shops are close to the border. I’m not sure what pots you are referring to, but it’s very possible that someone would help you carry a heavy purchase to the border. The parking lot is very close on the US side.

      Reply
  2. Erin in Costa Rica says

    It’s nice to read something positive about Mexico. 🙂

    Reply
  3. dtravelsround says

    This is a new town for me! I’ve never been to Mexico, but this sounds a lot less hectic than TJ and a place I would totally go! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

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