As someone who crosses the US/Canada border regularly for work, Mexico's simple and reasonable behaviour is stunning and inspiring...

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, compared to entering the US, the attitude is keeping the traffic moving. Call it "profiling" they know who to check and who is returning from work. Its better than bringing the 300,000 that cross each day to a 2 hour wait. Even with Sentri 2 days ago, at 2pm on a Wed, it took an hour to enter the US. That means the general lines must have been 2.5 hours. I understand safety, but a 3 hour wait is brutal.

Brings back memories of driving in the car with my dad to his house, he passed this year. Haven’t been in awhile but it still looks the same to me! Same exact drive to Rosario that we always did

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Sigy. Sorry about your dad. I spent some good Baja time with family too

@brianmcclenahan617

2 жыл бұрын

May he rest in peace.

@torontovalejatt2854

Жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat hello sir pl send me your contact pl. Help.me

Your friendliness and likability really comes across in your videos, Joe. I enjoy all of them. Hope you're well. Take care.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and the nice comment. I've been working 60 hours a week. Running out of Baja footage. I might get a trip to Loreto around Oct. We'll see. Looks like my Japan and Thailand trip is a bust for this year. I also started a plane spotting channel, for plane nerds like me. It's called On The Runway. Watching jets at the airport is a niche crowd, but I'm getting some traction. Plus it's a world wide audience. Comments from everywhere. I've been working on those videos too. I have my private pilot and always like hanging out at the airport. For sure my Eager Expat channel will be a big part of moving to SE Asia next year. See ya later. Joe

@ChristiaanHartNibbrig

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Do post the process of moving to Asia as you go through it, Joe. It will be fun and interesting for your viewers, myself included, to follow your move, your arrival, and your final stop. I'm always interested in the prices of things at different locations. What will it cost you to rent a house, for example, in Thailand? I understand the country is Buddhist, and relatively clean, and that they treat animals well (they have to treat them better than they do here in Mexico. ). Everyone I've talked to about Thailand, and they include many Euros, says the country is fantastic and beautiful. ... btw, San Felipe gets super crowded Fri-Sun every week. Monday thru Thursday is mellow, but we really get an influx every weekend. I can't blame them. One hundred degrees and the water is a lot better than 115 and dusty in Mexicali.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@ChristiaanHartNibbrig I will show the process. Enjoy San Felipe. It's a great town. A dozen of us used to head to San Felipe at least a few times a year. Partying and fishing. Great times. Ok see ya later. Joe

I went to Tijuana in 1981. It was completely different at that time. As soon I crossed the border there were baggers all over. Roads were broken. Dirty water was flowing everywhere. All the signs were in Spanish. I got so scared I just made a U-turn and came back. I am surprised by looking at your video.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

There are still very poor areas in Tijuana. There's also some very nice areas. I saw more Tesla's in Tijuana than San Diego recently

You're completely right. I've driven to Tijuana 3 times in the past month, you just drive defensively. Drivers are much more aggressive in MX. I'll usually just pick the slow lane and cruise. Anyways nice video

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks John. Yes it can get a little crazy at times. Like you, I just pick a lane and cruise along. I let the other guy speed by changing lanes every 100 feet. It doesn't bother me. If I had to deal with that border traffic 5 days a week, I might go a little crazy too. Joe

@bradleypollack5658

2 жыл бұрын

Definitely you can't act in Tijuana like you do in San Diego. The people are aggressive drivers. Not evil that just how they drive. I have a friend from Tijuana he drives like a maniac!!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@bradleypollack5658 I heard it was a 4 hour wait to cross into the US this morning. That would make me crazy too

@XJarhead360

2 жыл бұрын

Aggressive drivers just like in France, Italy and Orange County, California.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@XJarhead360 Yes, if you can survive the 405 crush at rush hour, you'll be fine in TJ

91X, heck yeah! Loved that channel growing up!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Remember the club they ran in TJ, Iguanas? Nirvana, Jane's Addiction etc... Saw them all with a cheap margarita

@danieluva2848

2 жыл бұрын

I used to listen to Chris Cantore, mornings on 91X, doing “Brand X Morning Radio!” Nice signal!

I'M FROM KENTUCKY N BEEN DYING TOO SEE SAN DIEGO ALL MY LIFE. I'M 57 NOW N HAVE NO CAR N MOST LIKELY WILL NEVER MAKE IT THERE SO I REALLY APPRECIATE YOU SHARING THIS VIDEO

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Jeff. KZread only shows my Baja videos. If you click on videos at the top of my channel, I have a San Diego playlist. You can check out Pacific and Ocean Beach. Plus Point Loma and the Coronado Bridge drive

Your video has a very high quality and the narrations is absolutely professional. Best regards from Italy

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Meschio. Italy is great. Thank you for watching and the nice comment. I hope you check out some other videos. Joe

I enjoy watching driving videos of places I've never seen and will probably never visit. And I greatly enjoyed this. Thank you.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching. I have a bunch of driving videos. Hopefully you'll check out a few more. See ya later, Joe

I haven't been to Tijuana in years. It has changed so much.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

It sure has. Hopefully you can visit again soon. Thanks for watching. Joe

This is my new favourite video, and I will be posting this link to patients coming to our facility from now on. Thanks very much!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much. I hope the video helps a few people feel at ease. I also did a video on the importance to have a Mexican Insurance policy. Have a nice New Years

Used to do this a lot in mid 70's 80's surfing with friends down to San Quentin.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

San Quentin and the Old Mill Hotel on the bay is a favorite of mine. Thanks for watching Blake

@bajamedic

2 жыл бұрын

@Auggie you still won’t step into Mexico.

Fantastic video. I feel like I learned everything I was worrying about. Thanks!

@EagerExpat

4 ай бұрын

That's cool, man. Live in Thailand today. The video is a few years old but is basically the same today. Enjoy the trip. I have a Baja playlist with many other videos. Check it out. And please make sure you have Mexican car insurance. I have a link in the video description to Baja Bound. A great company. Plus, I get a few bucks if a policy is right for you. But just get insurance from anywhere. You don't need any trouble.

thats where i crossed 30 years ago!! great video.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Me too. Time fly's. When you can, get back to Baja and look around. Lots of changes

The best part is the 5 to 6 hour wait to cross back into the US no matter what day it is. The one great thing is door service if you need a bite to eat, drink (which your drink bottle will also become your personal bathroom), some toys, hammocks, clothes, etc. lol.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Luckily 5 or 6 hours is rare, but 2 or 3 is common. Every now and then they close the border for a security reason. This can cause the 5 or 6 hour wait. I crossed yesterday in an hour in the ready lane. My buddy crossed in the Sentri lane in 20 minutes. This was at 2pm on a Thu. The best time to cross back is after 10 pm. I'm usually across the ready lane in less than 30 minutes. 300,000 people cross this border every day. 3rd or 4th busiest in the world. God help you if you cross on a Sunday afternoon. Or when half of Tijuana is going to work in San Diego between 5am and 8am. Thanks for watching

Nice thank you. Enjoy Mexico 🇲🇽. It makes a difference to know .

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching

Very thorough and informative video. After watching your video, I'll be heading to Baja as soon as possible. Thank you

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Glad to hear it. Take a look it my Mexican Insurance video. I've never had an accident in Baja, but you'll want (at least) a Mexican liability policy. Have fun

I appreciate how you respond to comments

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I do my best. Thanks for watching

This is pretty well done, managed to make it interesting. I take that trip often and you pointed out relevant things and I learned a few things. I take middle lane at end towards La Mesa.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mary. I'm just trying to show a new person it's safe and easy to travel the Baja. Just take it easy and try to avoid the busy time. You and me will head down on a crazy Friday afternoon. It can get be a mad dash to the toll-road. For a rookie, Thursday at noon will be more mellow.

This video was quite pleasant to look at, nice going. 👍😃

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Sal

This is very helpful!! Please post more videos about roadtrip to Tijuana!! Thank you so much for sharing helpful videos!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. Ill do some more soon. In the meantime I have some more Tijuana videos on the channel

@virtualtour4u85

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Yes thanks! Love your other videos as well Thank you

Your videos are extremely, extremely informative and filled with lots of knowledge! I miss the Mexico of the 1990s, where it was fun for lots of peeps to go on a weekday night to TJ and be back in L.A. by midnight! Different times indeed!🥺

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you like them! Thanks Player

@billm.3054

2 жыл бұрын

As a young adult

I could recall taking a few drives on a Friday heading to Tj. Almost empty lanes and a whole lot different then now. Good vid.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Ya most afternoons its really busy. The San Diego freeways were also easier years ago

Wow, big difference from the last time I entered Mexico forty years ago. There was no TJ bypass (toll road). Highway went from two lanes to one and dropped directly right into Tijuana. Most Americans didn't drive because of the liabilities and 'accident' scams that were prolific at the time.. Instead you parked in a huge parking lot on the American side and just walked across the bridge.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Ya things have changed. To be fair, San Diego has changed too. Some of my early memories were piling into my uncles camper with my cousins, heading to Baja in the early 70s. Thanks for watching

I grew up in Chula Vista..dad was actually a border patrolman..my friend and I lived in Rosarito in the early 80s and worked in Chula..spent most of the 80s running back and forth across the border for shopping and eating..brings back memories

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

The 80s in Baja were great. You could cross the border most days in less than 30 minutes. My uncle worked the Calexico border

@sandieserrano2425

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat my ex husband is from Calexico so I knew that area fairly well also

Wow thank u 4 sharing I can’t wait to visit

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Have a great trip. Ill be down this Veterans Day with friends. Hopefully Ill get video on the bullring area near the beach. Take it easy. Joe

Thanks for the tips Eager Expat

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

You bet!

Beautiful drive, maybe is time I drive down to Baja.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

It's always good to drive the Baja. Head down for the night and have a great trip. Thanks for watching. Joe

This video is great. Settled my curiosity. I just moved to Mexico back in august I take the left path that takes you deeper into TJ. I’ve always wondered why my maps tell me it’s a toll road and now I know. Also the best times to come into Tj is definitely 11am-2pm cause every one is pretty much at work or already crossed in the early morning.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Tori. Heading down to the Playas tomorrow. The toll road is a beautiful ride. Worth the $8.50 or so to Ensenada

Thanks for posting video interesting footage

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Frank. Hope you check out some other videos I did. See ya later. Joe

What's up, Joe? It was great meeting you at HK :)

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

What's up man. It was great to meet you guys. HK is always a party.

What a nice video !! Thank you amigo 👍👍

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Eddie

It looks beautiful and peaceful!! 🙌🙌

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Ya, its funny. It's 20 miles from San Diego, where anything with a peak of the Pacific cost millions. Baja is still affordable. Yet some people are terrified to visit Mexico. I get it season 3 of Narcos came out. Very scary 1980s action. I guess they're afraid of Disneyland and Beverly Hills too. The Crips and Bloods are 10 miles away. Baja is great.

I remember visiting relatives in Tijuana and going down to Rosarito Beach in late 50s. There was only one restaurant and a pristine beach for miles.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

That's old school Captain 1985. I remember Rosarito and Puerto Nuevo with my dad and uncle when I was 8 in 1974. A 1000 trips later, I still love Baja

Good video bro,I love it. I was in tijuana when I was 12 years old.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Carlos. I love Tijuana and Baja. I'm trying to get away this weekend. Head to the Baja 1000

I have been to Canada many times and am familiar with that border. I was always curious what it would be like to cross this one. Thank you...now I know

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Thomas. Fly on into San Diego sometime and walk across. Tijuana is a great city. Sure, it has problems like any large city. But that's 1% of the city you'll avoid. The other part is worth a visit.

Gee I didn’t know I was interested in a Mexican border crossing until you took me Thx

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. I hope a few people on the fence will see it's no big deal to drive down. Baja is always a great time

I like your videos very informative 👍 keep up good work 👏

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Jorge

That fiesta balloon bobbing randomly in middle of the highway cracked me up.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Danny

This is wonderful...my daughter lived in Normal Hts for a few years and is now in Oceanside, regardless we will likely bring our passports and head to TJ on a future trip...maybe look for the original Tacos El Gordo (the Chula Vista location is incredible, can only imagine what the original YJ location tastes like)...Very cool video!!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Chris. I grew up in Oceanside. Tijuana is great. Taco El Gordo in TJ its fine, but you'll see the long line across the street at Taco Franc. One of my favorites. If you can get lunch and dinner, check out my video, I forget the exact name Telefónica is the old telephone company building. All artisan food stands. Really good. Take it easy. Joe

thanks for refreshing my memory of how to get to the toll road to ensenada!

@EagerExpat

8 ай бұрын

I love Ensenada. Hussong's Cantina is great. I live in Bangkok today. Hopefully, you'll check out some Thailand videos

@coconutz247

8 ай бұрын

@@EagerExpat i'm driving my ducati 1260 across the border to la paz. then the ferry and down the coast to my hotel in puerto escondido. i really appreciated the video. and....for sure i'll check out your bangkok videos. i'm planning a trip this winter and it's great to have a contact! abrazos, randal

@EagerExpat

8 ай бұрын

@@coconutz247 Hey Randal, that will be a great trip. I've did the drive many times. Never on a bike, But, I've spent many days off-road in the Baja. I used to have a Cagiva before they merged with Ducati. Enjoy the trip. I'm an old sailboat guy. You probably know, but Puerto Escondido is where all the sailboats get pulled out of the water for the hurricane season. Click on the search bar on my channel. I did some videos running around La Paz. On one of them I showed the ferry point. Have a good trip. You've probably ridden in Baja before. If not, make sure you bring the original "pink slip" not sure what is called in other states. The owners certificate and of course the registration. Bikes entering Mexico often times get checked. Every time I had dirt bikes, I got pulled into customs. They want to make sure they're not heading for re-sale. It's a 2 minute discussion, but just bring all the paperwork.. And of course have really good Mexican Insurance. I have links in all my Mexico videos to Baja Bound. These guys in San Diego are great at a fair price. If you head over from the link in my video, I get $5 or $10 commission. More important than that is too have a good policy. See ya later. Sounds like a great trip

@EagerExpat

8 ай бұрын

Ya man, it's pretty simple. Just follow the Playa signs. Great trip down the coast. Stop in Puerto Nuevo for a lobster dinner. Ortega's is my spot

@coconutz247

8 ай бұрын

@@EagerExpat never heard of a cagiva but it looks eerily like a panagale. my multistrada is a beast. i'm considering a maxi scooter but all the good ones are not for sale in the usa. i checked out some of your videos of bankok. where else in thailand would you recommend that's not so citified.

Pretty cool video. I like that you narrate the whole time. It keeps the viewer engaged. I love how güeros pronounce “Tee-wanna” lol. Try it our way: “Tee-who-Anna”!!! and say it fast for crying out loud lol l. Keep up the good work amigo. Bien hecho 👍

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I'm old school. I usually say TeeHaJuana. Respect to Tia Juana. Thanks for watching Esteban

Last time I went to TJ was in the late 90's. My buddies and I would drive to SD and park, walk across the border on that bridge and party. Heading back I was glad to walk right back into the US while there were endless lines of cars not even moving trying to get in.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Ya, these days it can hours waking in too. Not a bad at night. Check out the app border wait times. Thanks for watching. Joe

I remember driving there a lot of times going to Ensenada and Rosarito back in mid and late 90's, That time going back from the border to US only takes less than 15 mins.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I remember those days too. Great to run down just for dinner. This morning the radio said its was 5 hours to enter the US. One idiot breaking the law can bring things to a grinding halt. Thanks for watching

@karlaordaz4839

2 жыл бұрын

Gosh I was a teenager back then and i remember it too. Never took more than 20 min to head back to SD

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@karlaordaz4839 Ya we would drive to Puerto Nuevo for dinner. Cross back at 9pm in 5 or 10 minutes. 9/11 really changed everything. Its still not too bad if you cross between 11pm and 4am. All other times its hit or miss. Mostly miss!

VERY NICE VIDEO WITH A LOT INFO..THANKSSSS..

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Jose

Thanks you make look 👀 so easy I was born there but if I was to go there I would get lost

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Tijuana is a large city, but it's manageable. Park on the US side and walk in for a visit. Check out my walking into Tijuana video. Take it easy. Joe

Great video! you're, right. I was there for the 4th of July, and it took me an hour from the last USA exit to Hotel Pueblo Amigo.

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

Yes a holiday weekend can get crazy. Still worth the wait. TJ is a great city. Thanks for watching. Joe

You know what ide have to say every thing you said was very helpful I like to jot notes down to be aware ty

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Pedie. I'm not trying to be a Baja expert. Many people know more than me. But, I'm comfortable traveling in Mexico. It's a great place to visit. Hopefully my video can show its not that tricky to visit

I am from TJ. A Norteña by birth, and I have made that drive who knows how many times and I just saw your video out of curiosity. "What does this guy know?" haha but I actually found your video not only soothing but very informative. I have never pulled over at the LA Joya exit and now I will. The only thing I will suggest. Big... HUGE advice: Do exchange your dollars into pesos before heading down to Mexico. They will take your dollar for much less the further south you go. Whereas if you exchange in San Ysidro before leaving the US, your dollar will go a long way. and yes, if you find that you spend more than you needed, do have a lot of change (such $1 dollar bills and $0.50 cents) at hand. You are right, sometimes they will give you pesos back, and it will not necessarily be the equivalent that you think it is. Enjoy your trips to Baja. A lot of marvelous towns through out with a lot to offer.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Karla, Thanks for watching. I've also made the crossing a 1000 times since the 80's. But this was just a little help for the rookie thinking about making the first trip. I agree on the peso exchange for anything past Ensenada. I usually get pesos even for Tijuana. Baja is great. Hopefully more people will take a chance and head south. Like we both know, it's worth a little traffic. Joe

I enjoyed the ride. I've never been to this part of California and Mexico.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks swampzoid. I've been lucky to visit Baja my whole life. When you have time, I have videos all over the 1000 miles of Baja. Happy Thanksgiving

I lived in Oceanside I remember going down this way

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Me too. It was a different time. Age 16, we drove to TJ. Concerts at Iguanas!!

Nice Video!! I have gone to tijuana about 3 times in my life but never driven there. Im thinking next time i go ill probably drive to see what its like to drive over there.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Ya Alfonso, give it a try. It's no big deal. Just avoid the crazy busy times I talked about in the video. Save that for your second trip

@alfonsoacosta2180

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat alright cool im a night guy so ill be driving around afternoon or night. Thanks for the heads up! 👍🏻

Great video!!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mar Mie for watching

I miss San Diego and I only been gone 6 months lol ..people really underestimate how great a city it is .

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

San Diego is great. Its expensive, but its a good city

Very informative video!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Bryon. Hopefully you check out some other videos on my channel. Im just playing around, but its nice when some one watches

Great video thanks for sharing

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Mario

@WalkingMario

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat thank you for sharing nice videos👍

Good video now back to u.s from rosarito to San Diego

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Check out my other videos. Ill have to put one up in the day. I did one driving back at night from Ensenada. I then cross at 530am back into the US. Thanks for watching

thanks man havent went over 25 years

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. Many things have changed, but Baja is still a good time

This is a really cool video. I grew up in North Eastern San Diego but I never have driven into Mexico. I don’t remember the last time I went to San Yisdro. I think the furthest I have driven was to Imperial Beach.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. I grew up in the North County. Maybe you'll check out Baja sometime.

Nice video Joe. I agree I have never had any issue with the officials in Tijuana, while I have been stopped on occassion I always was treated fairly. One time I had over 2000 USD in my wallet and they returned every penny of it. Semper Fi

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. Yes I've had fair experiences too. Years ago a local hit my truck and they helped me get paid. Once again, if you're looking for trouble, you'll prob find it. If you're normal, 99% chance you'll be fine

@fittekowner

3 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat I agree that is what I always told my Marines. I always said if you go to Mexico act like a polite guest, not like an inebriated fool. I have never had any real issues in Mexico and with my gringo looks and the fact that I often travel to Celaya, GTO which now has the reputation as the " most dangerous city in Mexico" I have found a little "common sense" goes a long way. Semper Fi

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

@@fittekowner Semper Fi sir. Totally agree

I've done this drive before. I miss going to Tijuanna!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Yes its a great city. I was there yesterday. Check out my drive to Playa De Tijuana. Next Sat well look around

Nice video We have a house in the Playas de rosarito. We do this drive each week, sometimes more, sometimes less depending on what were doing in the states. Couple of points. You might explain why traffic backs up during weekday afternoons: it's because so many people commute to SD from TJ. Second, the toll road isn't always the quickest. Sometimes there is so much tourist traffic that it's quicker to go thru TJ on the libre road Third, similar to above. If you are on the way to the toll road, but it's backed up to where you normally peel off right, keep going straight. TJ has a ring road expressway. Straight leads to the libre road to ensenada right after it leaves downtown TJ. The libre road from there is a 3 lane expressway to rosarito. Fourth, MX has a wide range of cars and drivers. Some drive slow, some drive fast. I always let baja plated cars go by - its their country after all, but get annoyed if CA gringos try to play that game. The cops will sometimes eventually put it right. In general, MX is much safer than the US, since they have neither the same types of political nor racial issues. Stay out of cartel business and have a good time.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Perfect advice. Ill often times drive the free road. It might be a little tricky for a new person. I love your area. Enjoy your home. Joe

@Minarreal

2 жыл бұрын

Mexico is much safer than the States, it just has many times more murders a year than its neighbor. Got it.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@Minarreal Nobody is trying to convince you Mexico is 100% safe. Our high schools and malls in the states (sadly) aren't 100% safe. But this idea people have (thanks Narcos) that you're gonna get shot walking down the street in Baja is false. I'd rather walk most TJ streets at 11pm instead of most streets in South Chicago at 11. If you feel otherwise, that's fine, don't visit Mexico. But, I'd turn off the evening news too. I have friends in London that refuse to visit California. They think its all Crips and Bloods. Plus one massacre shooting after another. Yes 10 guys just got shot in Mexico. Rival cartel gang, etc... I might be wrong, but I can't remember the last music fest, movie theater or high school in Mexico that ended with innocent people shot. But you'll have to decide what's "safe" for you. Do innocent folks get hurt in Baja and the US? Yes they do

@Minarreal

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Can't reciprocate the feeling, unfortunately. Over the last two years, three people have been killed in Plaza Galerías, one of the most luxurious places of the city, I live just a few squares away from there. Of course, no people were captured, and that right there is the main problem right now. Tijuana is living its most brutal period in a little more than a decade. About preferring to walk in Tijuana rather than Chicago, I mean, that obviously depends on the area. Get outside of Tijuana's fanciest districts (which aren't a lot), be it La Cacho, Hipódromo, Zona Río, etc., you aren't safe anymore. Downtown is not safe, neither is the East Zone, which sadly covers the vast majority of the entire municipality, it doesn't matter whether you are involved with the organized crime or not. Today you will see human remains hanging from a bridge accompanied by a giant message on a daily basis, sometimes twice a day or more. Of course, the situation isn't mind-blowingly awful, but you're better off living almost anywhere else, honestly.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@Minarreal I feel your frustration. But once again, guys hanging off a bridge are usually mixed up in cartel business. My friend from work got shot at the country show in Vegas. She took a round in the arm while she had a beer on her hand. No my friend, this is the world we live in. I was at dinner a month ago. Gunfire broke out. Turns out it was a block away. We knocked down our dinner table and hit the ground. Reminded me of fun times in the Persian Gulf. This wasn't Tijuana. It was Coronado. Can't get much richer than Coronado. So we do the best we can. I don't mean to discount the violence in Tijuana or San Diego. In my thinking, this will happen when millions of people live together. It won't stop me from visiting Baja or Coronado. Thanks for your comment

Great Video 🇲🇽🇺🇸👍✌️

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Renee

Very cool. I used to live to the right at 12:25

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Nice Charles. Baja is great. Thanks for watching

Awesome video (chingon)

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ricardo

Thank u. Luv it

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching

Good video man

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I appreciate that. Take it easy Beyond Borders

Thank you

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching

Awesome video

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it

Great video. I haven't driven that road since about 1985. It used to feel like driving the Autopista at Disneyland going through Tijuana. And the "topes" going into Ensenada, well, slow down. Do people still recommend Mexican liability insurance for your car? I always bought it before going south.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Yes insurance is a must. I usually have a 6 month policy. And I usually get full coverage. Maybe 20% more. Ill admit I've driven in Baja without insurance. In my 50s, I won't risk problems if I cause an accident. Its never happened in 40 years of Baja driving, but I don't need any problems. Thanks for watching. Joe

I've gone in TJ multiple times for dental work. And back in the day when I was stationed in San Diego in the Navy to get drunk and have fun. Maybe one day I'll take the risk in drive in. I seriously hate waiting in the pedestrian line to get back into the US. Especially the last couple years since the other entry has been closed since the pandemic. 30 years ago they didn't ask for your passport walking into Mexico, but these days it seems they are. Not sure if it's due to the pandemic or not. But coming back in, 9 out of 10 times it's one hell of a wait.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I hear ya on those waits. Keep in mind when its busy walking, its a 1 or 2 hour wait driving. My advice is to get a $50 hotel room. Hang out, dentist, whatever. Eat some good food, watch some ESPN and get a few hours sleep. Cross back from 10pm to 3am. You'll walk across in 5 minutes. Take a look at the app Border Wait Times. Thanks for watching. I was on the USS Horne CG 30 1984 to 1988.

@Sperkowitz

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat I'll have to do that next time. And that drive did look fun, I've seriously never been past Tijuana lol. I was on the USS John A Moore in, I think 94

What kind of mount are you using for your camera? The shot stayed pretty steady even when you went over speed bumps? Great video!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

It wasn't anything special. Just a 360 metal swivel mount. It was an older GoPro8, but it has good stabilization. Thanks for watching. Joe

Hello I'm new here. Found your video very informative.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Hope you subscribe and check out a few more videos. Baja is a goodtime. Thanks, Joe

Buen video my friend felicidades caon

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jose

Great videos let me know if you ever plan on doing a group day trip

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks

Great video with a lot of information, thanks. Do you need extra insurance (other the coverage you have in the US) to enter, for a short term visit (less than a month)?

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I think you do. Your US coverage might cover your car in Mexico. It probably won't cover the car you hit. Which is a real problem when the police arrive. Without a Mexican insurance policy, they usually demand payment on the spot. Check out Baja Bound or any reputable company that sells tourist policies for Mexico.

@pompem2140

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Thank you.

I know this place for so many years and I still feel great every time I'm there

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Me too. Lots of good memories. Going back for decades

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@Emilie Thnaks Emilie for watching

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@Emilie Thanks again

10/10 video

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Roger

Useful!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Richard. Somehow I missed you comment.

Nice video

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. Joe

Intereting drive to Mexico

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Nadri

I remember the 91X concert down there

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Me too Mexfest at the bullring. Iguanas was owned by the 91x family too. The Nobel's I think. Good concerts

Back in the late 90's me and my buddies would drive down to Rosarito from Norcal. I Drove that highway several times. I stopped driving to Mexico after the TJ policia stole 120 bucks from me and my friends. Great video! I do miss it

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I hear ya. The 90s were the wild west in Baja. Maybe head down again. The police are mellow compared to the 90s. Especially if you're a little older and not speeding along. They just want that tourist dollar. Joe

Hi Joe!, great video!, what is the best day and time to head back into the USA? Obviously to avoid traffic. Also, Otay or San Ysidro for best port of entry? Thanks

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

I've always been a San Ysidro guy. Otay is smaller, so when it's busy, it can take forever. Plus the RV's and large trailers use Otay. It's hit or miss on best day. I'd say Sunday afternoon is usually bad. That said, two weeks ago I crossed Sunday about 5pm in 20 minutes. It did take about 90 minutes to drive from Rosarito to Tijuana. Usually a 30 minute drive. I think half of Tijuana went to the beach that day. For that reason, I'll be avoiding the toll road when the beach crowd heads home. A toll booth and a few hundred cars is a bad mix

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

Most days past 930pm I usually cross back in the Ready lane in 45 minutes or so. Sometimes less than 30 minutes. That usually lasts until 4:30am or so. The work crowd gets the border busy from 5am. The daytime is hit or miss. It's usually busy most of the day. I've had decent luck around 4pm. Most traffic is heading into Tijuana in the late afternoon. Keep an eye on the app Border Wait times. It's updated each hour. The perfect "guess" for a fast crossing is any day around 11pm. Again, it depends on how many gates are open. 23 gates is good. 10 gates is bad.

@xtiangallegos

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Thank you for the great information! I’ll keep that in mind! Keep the good videos

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

@@xtiangallegos Thanks

@prime8nate

2 жыл бұрын

My rule of thumb for San Ysidro has always been "cross at hours when kids are asleep".

@3:40 geez Joe, taking that right turn a little sharp, aren't you?? LoL

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

Had to get the camera shot. Anything for the channel!! Your trip still ? Gotta work, but Robert and I will try to hit the 31st party for a few hours. Maybe 730 or 800. Catch ya later

@bubbletea3459

3 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Yes, the other Joe and I will be there Tuesday to Thursday (staying at Cascadas)....look forward to seeing you on Wednesday night!!

@EagerExpat

3 жыл бұрын

@@bubbletea3459 sounds good

Nice 👍

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Edward

Thank you 🙏 nice vedeo beautiful way and road nice 👍 vew God bllas you

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Khan Muhammad for watching

@khanmuhammad7560

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat you are welcome Sr

Hey I want to go in one week with my family by crossing the board we are legal and us citizens tho, is there any restrictions? We have to pay or something ? A COVID test??? I hope you answer thank you

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

No restrictions. "Essential travel" is left to your discretion. No test. Have a good trip

Thank you for this informative video!! We are going to Ensenada in August for a wedding and making a vacation out of it in San Diego. We're going a week in San Diego, but only spending one day in Ensenada. I am assuming the toll way you took would take us right to Ensenada. The directions I wrote down for the start of it is the exact way that you took in this video. We just have a little bit of a jog (seeing map directions is about an hour and 45 to our location) from Tijuana to Ensenada. Thing is though we will already have a rental car for while we are in San Diego and plan to take that one, so should we see if the car rental company we are looking into, covers for the day worth of insurance? Or should we worry about getting added insurance through a 3rd party? I am only worried that not knowing what that car will be, until we pick it up, that we won't be able to pay for that insurance until a couple days before we venture to Ensenda. Other than that, love the video and greatly appreciate it as it seems to help with knowing some of what we will be dealing with. Oh, also, when you crossed the border, it seemed so effortless. I am hoping it'll be the same for us.

@EagerExpat

Жыл бұрын

I would double check with the rental company. Many have stopped letting rental cars into Mexico. Plus it could be an issue when you return. US Immigration will type in the license plate. If the rental company allows driving into Mexico, double check they charged you for a Mexican insurance package. You'll have to let them know when your going. Otherwise they will charge the entire time you rent the car. I'd guess it's $15 or $20 a day for full coverage. The insurance in the US doesn't cover you in Mexico. There is confusion because it may cover liability, but it often times won't cover any damage to your car. Bottom line is if you drive a private car into Mexico you must have a Mexican policy. You can get one for the day, week, year, etc.. If you get in a fender bender without insurance in Mexico, you have to pay on the spot. The police and body shop guy will be at the accident within minutes. If you have insurance, no problem. Exchange paperwork and drive away. I have a link in the video description for Baja Bound Insurance. You can call Baja Bound with any questions. Please tell them Eager Expat sent you. I get a dollar or two if someone buys a policy. I like Baja Bound because they have a San Diego office, with representatives in Mexico. If something really bad happens, you'll have English speakers at your side. Other insurance companies might have a phone number in Mexico City. Most of us California people use this company in San Diego for the best coverage in Mexico. So Hopefully your rental car allows Mexico. I wouldn't sneak in if they don't allow. You won't be covered even if you get a Mexican policy. Plus, they sometimes check the GPS to charge you a fine. Worst case, you can walk across and take the Greyhound style bus to Ensenada. The bus station is near the border. Or hire a cab. Uber also works in Tijuana. I've made a few videos on walking into Tijuana. Plus one on the importance of Mexican Insurance. You could also walk across and take a cab to a rental company in Tijuana. Hopefully Budget, Avis, etc.. gave you the green light for Mexico. They keep changing there minds. Sixt and Fox used to allow travel into Mexico. But things change often. I also did a video on driving back to the US. I wouldn't drive at night if you can avoid it. Lots of dogs and cars without lights, etc.. But the toll road isn't too bad. Best bet is head to Tijuana before it gets dark. Maybe 7:30pm in the summer. Have some dinner and head to the border past 10:00pm. You still might have a long wait, but at 6:00pm its 100% chance of a long wait. Yes, crossing into Mexico is easy. Crossing back into the US is the problem. This is the busiest border crossing in the world. Another option is to travel from the wine country in Ensenada ( I did a video on that too) and take the backroad to Tecate. It's a decent 2 lane road. They also have a border crossing, but it closes (I think) at 11:00pm. Tecate is usually easy to cross mid-day. There's an app called Border Crossings. They update times on the top of the hour. When you cross into Mexico follow the signs to La Playas (the beach) The toll road runs along the ocean. They also take US dollars. If you give them a $20, plan on getting pesos as change. Have some $1's 0r $5's. I think it's about $3 at 3 toll booths each way. Have a good trip. I'm typing from the airport in Bali. I'm flying back to my new home in Bangkok. Have a great trip. Ensenada is great.

No more crossing in TJ all of my traffic is now through Mexicali with the opening of hwy 5 to el Crucero. Takes like 5 hours of the total drive mainly avoiding the headache of Ensenada. I am doing tip runs so it’s beneficial to me.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I agree, Ensenada can slow you down. Still, other times Im heading to Ensenada. I should be at the Baja 1000 this week. Can't get away

@henryroman5997

2 жыл бұрын

What is a tip run ? Thanks

@bajamedic

2 жыл бұрын

@@henryroman5997 border to Los Cabos

I haven't been there since the late 90s it looks like alot traffic I remember when I was little kid in the early 60s Rosarito was only a couple build ings restaurant and store .

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I remember Rosarito in the later 70's.You're right, it was much smaller. But, I also remember riding my dirt bike in San Diego in 1980, where 2000 homes are today. I kinda like 1980 better

Thanks for your videos, Joe! They help a lot... I'm curious if you (or anyone else with this kind of experience) knows if I need to get, besides my US auto insurance, Mexican auto insurance if I want to drive around Baja California for a few weeks? And how safe is it? Thanks!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Christian. Yes its very important to have Mexican insurance. Its not letting me send a link. Check out my last video. All about insurance. I reference a company in San Diego. They're one of the best. If you use the link in the video description, I get $6 for the referral. Do your homework, I think the rates are all about the same. If your thinking about renting a car and driving in, I wouldn't. Rent the car in Mexico and get a much insurance as they sell. Its safe, but if you have an accident, you'll want good insurance. Thanks for watching. Joe

@ChristianBjork

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Thanks so much, I will! I really appreciate it. I would drive my US-purchased car in, so I'd want to get insurance in San Diego before driving in, thank you.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@ChristianBjork Yes have good Mexican insurance and enjoy your visit

That truck that went right before the Mexican immigration could also be getting their fmm stamped as well. There is parking there as well, so on both sides of the building (i.e. pre or post the customs check)

@EagerExpat

Жыл бұрын

Good to know. I needed the FMM to dive one time. I pulled over and was sent inside the PedWest building. But that was many years ago. Today, I'm dealing with customs around SE Asia. I wish it was as simple as the FMM over here. Thanks for watching

Any idea what gas prices are like right now in TJ? I'm just curious if there's much difference between there and SD. It's $6.50 now in OC!

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I got gas about a month ago. It was a little cheaper, but not much.

At 2:49 you say no passport swipe. I’ve crossed on foot multiple times over the last 2 years going into Mexico via San Ysidro and don’t remember them scanning/swiping at all. Pretty sure they just look at it and send me through. Has your experience been different?

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Yes totally different. I'd say they swipe my passport 8 out of 10 times. They're really suppose too. Looking for warrants, etc.. They never stamp, but I expect a swipe and a view of the computer screen. Even driving I get the swipe. No biggie. No warrants here. Ha Ha

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

I'd say about 50% of the time they take a photo too. With a 1990 desktop camera, but they usually take a pic. I've also get the 10 second waive and go. But usually its a fast swipe, all clean, and off I go

@hadenm3697

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Hi Edgar…you’ve got a nice channel but maybe we’re talking about 2 different things. Coming back into the US, for sure they’re going to swipe or whatever which will give them a fairly complete picture of who’s coming in. However, going ‘into’ Mexico (which is what I was talking about) they aren’t connected with the US’ systems (like CBP TECS, etc) like Canada is, for example. So if the Mexico side did swipe coming in, it’d only be for warrants that they had for persons in Mexico, or is that what you’re saying lol. Anyway thx for the responses

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@hadenm3697 Oh yes I didn't check what was at 2 minutes. Going in they used to stamp. They stopped that in 2016? They might check the expiration, but they don't really look. Sorry about that. I thought you meant entering the US

@hadenm3697

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat yea I’ve actually got a single stamp in my book from last summer with no exit info attached to it (didn’t think about it til recently). Kinda sucks because I’m heading back to Mexico soon but this time for several months to travel around. I will for sure need a tourist visa/stamp this time but hoping they don’t question the stamp with no exit info haha. I was kinda pissed when I saw the stamp for taking up a page but the lady did it before I could say anything

Maybe I missed it and excuse my ignorance but is there no stop to check passport? What if you forget it? How would you come back into the states?

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, when your driving 99% of the time you don't stop entering Mexico. It would be best to not forget the passport. To be honest, a lot of people return with a drivers license. They might get a lecture, but they'll let you back in the US. If you "lost" your wallet and they suspect your trying to sneak into the US, they'll hold you until things are verified. San Ysidro is the busiest border in the world. They try to keep it moving

Hi Joe. Great job on your videos. My wife and I are going to be living in the Ensenada area for 6 months, and we'd love to have family/friends visit us from Canada. They'd all be flying into San Diego airport. Is there a low-stress way of getting from the airport to the pedestrian border crossing? Just as importantly, is there a low-stress/easily identifiable place for me to meet them after they've crossed so I can drive them to our place in Ensenada?

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. The easiest way is Uber or Lyft. I just checked. On Sun afternoon its $39 from the airport to the Ped East crossing. The cheapest is a $6 bus pass. You can map out the route on the website. Take the bus downtown and get on the Blue Line. It stops 100 feet from the crossing. The trolley is 99% safe. I'd guess it would take almost 2 hours to make the 15 mile trip. Maybe worth it for a single visitor. Otherwise Lyft is probably best. There's always talk about Lyft going into Tijuana. Unless you get lucky and find a driver heading home, it can't be counted on. Plus, I think they had a crossing surcharge of $20 or $30. As for pickup. You'll want to avoid the traffic heading to the border. Don't ever head from Ensenada to Tijuana on a Sunday afternoon. Half of TJ heads to the beach. It will easily take twice (if your lucky) as long. Make your way to the Pueblo Amigo Hotel. You can pay to park (Not sure on the cost. Maybe free if you walk into the casino?) There's also a LEY grocery next door with a lot. Toss some groceries on the front seat, I'd guess you'll be fine. Walk the 1/2 mile to the border crossing at Ped East. You can see the easy walk on my Pueblo Amigo Video here. kzread.info/dash/bejne/dmyI1pSDdLiYc9o.html (Hotel Pueblo Amigo) Walk your guest the short walk to the hotel area. After a few trips, you'll see the small back road where the taxi's and Uber's hang out. If you want stress free, I'd avoid this immediate area until you have it figured out. Let them argue with each other about who gets the next ride, etc.. I might do a video on catching the bus to Ensenada. Unless the health situation closed the station, they used to have the ABC bus between Ped East and Ped West crossing. Haven't rode in awhile, but I'm sure it's less than $20 and goes direct to Ensenada. At least it used too. It's a clean Greyhound style bus. This would be fine for people that can find the bus a short walk from the crossing. Everything is changing. Hopefully the parking lots return with the vans and buses that run tourists to the bus station on Revolution. Taking the bus from a parking lot next to the crossing is really useful. You basically skip all the customs agents. Again, not sure there ever coming back. It's been a few years. The health situation stopped all that. This would avoid the hit or miss FMM charge at the border. $31 is the 180 day fee. Really unneeded for your visitors. Again, hopefully they go back to free FMM's for short visits. If so, all your guests are staying "2" days. I think 72 hours (guessing) was the free cut-off. Plus, have them prepared for an airport style X-ray machine. I'd guess a suitcase will be given the 1 minute inspection. So double check smokes, Canadian Whiskey limits, etc.. Ped West is still closed. I'd have your guests still use Ped East. It's a little trickier for you to park and pickup near Ped West. Plus, it's a pretty long walk. If they cross in the late afternoon at Ped East, there will be hundreds crossing with you. That's no big deal. They will walk to the resident line. It all moves fast. Last, if any of your visitors also have a green card from the US, bring that along. I had a girlfriend from Vancouver. I took her to Ensenada for a visit. When we returned to the US, they didn't care about the Canadian passport. They only wanted the green card from the US. Ok, hope that helps. Joe

@markbarry1352

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat Thank you so much, Joe, for your thorough and thoughtful response. That was very generous of you. Rgds, Mark

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

@@markbarry1352 No problem. Enjoy Ensenada soon. Great area

One can tell that he is heading westbound because the Border fence is to his right, North and the opposite side is south.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching RK Nine

Is it the same building for customs and getting an FMM? I saw another video that showed/said that you pull off at the mexican flag pole BEFORE the inspection area to get a FMM. So... same building and just two different way to approach and go inside? I am headed down in about a week in a little campervan and was advised to get an FMM just in case I was asked for it. Thank you for any info on this.

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

If I understand the question, yes it's the same building. But, if you go to the right before customs (like the guy with an air conditioner) you'll be inspected. 99% chance you won't if you enter Mexico and get waived past customs. Then take a right like I did a 3:45. That is the Mexican side of the PedWest entrance to Mexico. The problem is that port is still closed for health reasons. In the past year (not lately) the Mexican agents have demanded a 180 day FMM when walking across. Due to essential travel only. Driving, they keep the traffic moving. Even if they take a fast look inside your van, they don't care about an FMM. Just tell them you're going camping for a few nights. If you say 10 days, they might start asking for the $31 (180 day FMM) I usually have an FMM because they often ask when you walk across. If you're just going for a week or so, I wouldn't bother. Even if you get pulled over, they want the cash. They don't ask for the FMM. You might need it if you try to rent an apartment or get on a dive boat. Otherwise, 90% of people don't bother. When you return to the US, they don't care about an FMM. If you really want one, it should be free for 72 hours (I think) or less. You might have to walk into Mexico at PedEast (near trolley) The agent might play games and say you need a 180 day FMM (that cost $31) I'll leave that up to you, but I wouldn't bother. Much more important is having Mexican Car Insurance. I did a video on insurance. kzread.info/dash/bejne/k36WuaSkXci-drQ.html Have a great trip

@nwlady1844

2 жыл бұрын

@@EagerExpat thank you! great explanation

I have a motorcycle whant to bring to tj to ride there. What you recommend to do. I just bought it yesterday. Thinking to go to AAA to put on my name. Or can I take it like it is.? Thank you 🙏🏽

@EagerExpat

2 жыл бұрын

Im not sure. AAA would have the answer. I do know most times I bring a dirt bike in a truck they pull me over crossing. They always ask for the registrations in my name.