Tijuana Holiday

Tijuana is a playground for many US tourists who take their baby steps into Latin America there, gingerly hopping over the border on a bus from San Diego.

Located on the north-west of Mexico, Tijuana is just 17.1 miles from the US city and during the prohibition earned itself a reputation as a convenient retreat to vice.

The city boasts year-round sunshine, excellent retail opportunities selling almost anything at knock down prices (although genuine designer labels may be hard to come by) and some friendly Mexican charm.

With a population of two million, the city is one of the wealthiest in Mexico and has a range of tourist attractions to keep holidaymakers entertained.

In fact, with the world-famous Revolution Avenue, old Al Capone drinking haunts and golden beaches, there is no reason for Tijuana to remain a day trip destination.

Traditions and culture in Tijuana

When tourists cross over the border, they need to remember what a difference 20 miles can make. Tijuana has a high crime rate and holidaymakers need to keep their wits about them. When travelling around the city by car keep all doors locked, especially when stopping at traffic lights.

However, the city is also a welcoming place and most residents will speak English, making getting around easier.

Travellers should also equip themselves with a willingness to barter, as in Tijuana a street trader's first price will rarely be his last if the buyer coaxes him into a negotiation. Some street sellers will start their bargaining at twice the price they expect a holidaymaker to pay.

Recommended in Tijuana

Tijuana's main attraction is it ample retail facilities. Streets and streets of shops selling things that across the US border would cost twice the price. In Mexico there are some serious bargains to be had.

In addition, the city boasts a range of top golf courses, restaurants and nightclubs for those looking to kick back and relax to enjoy.

More controversially, traditional bull fights still take place in some parts of Tijuana, giving visitors the chance to witness one of Mexico's long-standing sporting traditions.

Annual events throughout the year, such as the Fiesta Brava, the bi-annual Mozart Festival and the Hispano-American Guitar Festival, also provide excellent entertainment for visitors to the city.

Furthermore, golden sandy shores are just a 20 minute drive out of Tijuana. To the west of the city lies Rosarito, which gives holidaymakers the chance to enjoy the benefits of a city break while topping up their tan on the beach.

Weather in Tijuana

Tijuana boasts sunny climes all year round, with a very short rainy period, making it an ideal holiday destination.

Daytime temperatures tend to average 68 degrees Fahrenheit in January and rise to around 86 degrees Fahrenheit in August.

The rainy season falls between late winter and early spring and is relatively tame.

Destination checklist for Tijuana

Mexico's official currency is the Peso. Cheaper flights to the nation are available if holidaymakers book in advance.

Tijuana is eight hours behind GMT and uses the international dialling code +52.