# Exploring Tijuana on a Taco Tour with Turista Libre *By James Hills — Updated July 2024* Tijuana (and most of Mexico) has gotten a bad reputation over the past few years for being a violent war zone that is unsafe for tourists. In a way though that makes it sort of intriguing when paired with the fact that it is rapidly becoming known as a foodie destination. My friends that I asked in San Diego though were mixed on their opinions, but everything was put in perspective when I spoke with two guys from Tijuana. I told them that I used to live in Chicago and their reaction was, "Woah! That place isn't safe!" Their reaction was shocking to me. However it's understandable, because like us they relied on media stories, rumors, and exaggeration and got the wrong impression about a place they've never been. This is a really important lesson to consider, because the only way to really see what a place is really like is to actually go visit, explore, and experience it for yourself. That's exactly what we did - in a safe, controlled way, led by Derrik Chinn of Turista Libre for a tour of three taco restaurants and an ice cream parlor in Tijuana. Our tour met on the American side of the San Ysidro border crossing, which is super easy to get to from San Diego via the trolley. After assembling the group, we walked across the border and after passing through a revolving gate we were in Mexico! Unlike entering the United States, this was super easy. What we found on the other side was honestly better and more clean than what we found on the American side of the border. After a short walk, we proceeded to meet the bus that would be taking us on the tour that day. ### Placerville Is A Golden Destination For Your Next Guys Getaway A guys weekend getaway in Placerville, California ManTripping [Read More](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/V9EyO-mXviGIjGvPoMyBAQ.1484) ### Why Men Should Pick A Dominican Republic All-Inclusive Resort For A Caribbean Guys Trip Reasons men should consider an all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic for their next guys trip. ManTripping [Read More](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/V9EyO-mXviGIjGvPoMyBAQ.2157) ### 14 Days Private Honeymoon Trip to Thailand A 14 day private honeymoon trip to Thailand for couples. Enjoy Krabi beaches, snorkeling, a floating market visit and a Grand Pearl river cruise. 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Stainless, no propane tank to wrestle, and hot enough to cook for four guys rather than reheat for one. [Check The Price](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/H5L84inenGFak83hQslkNw.2144) [August's Pick LiberNovo Maxis Electric Big and Tall Ergonomic Office Chair, Graphite 52cm $1,466.00](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/H5L84inenGFak83hQslkNw.2350) [July's Pick Powerful Propane Torch Gun, Adjustable Flame Thrower Gun, Kitchen Torch with Detachable Design, Flamethrower Blow Torch for BBQ, Searing Steak, Welding, Camping Charcoal Lighter(Tank Not Included) $41.99](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/H5L84inenGFak83hQslkNw.2397) [June's Pick OYASUMI Funny BBQ Man Hot Dog Holders, 4 PCS Reusable Stainless Steel Sausage Stands, Portable Hot Dog Roasters, Barbecue Grill Accessories for Camping & Party Gifts $14.98](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/H5L84inenGFak83hQslkNw.2396) Promoted by FlowAds Throughout the tour, I was impressed both by the fact that this city I had prepared myself to see as a war zone that is "off limits" to all but the most daring tourists felt no different than parts of our own country. We saw poor parts with shacks, but we also saw parts of town that were as clean and modern as anything in San Diego. While I am not yet prepared to go back on my own, that's mostly because I would feel more comfortable if I had a better handle of the language. However, for anyone considering satisfying their curiosity I highly encourage you to check out Turista Libre. They offer this tour every couple months as well as a variety of other tours ranging from visits to the Tijuana Water Park, to shopping, and even Lucha Libre and Baseball tours.  These [tours are led by](https://www.turistalibre.com) an American journalist who now lives in Tijuana where he is an English teacher. This is not some corporate "tourist trap tour" to exploit the city but felt more like someone who was proud of where he lived and enjoys sharing its secrets with those who want to open their minds to what might be hidden on the other side of a door. Image From Tijuana Taco Tour with Turista Libre Details Written by: James Hills Last Updated: 26 July 2024 ### 🚢Ready To Book A Vacation? Let us help you plan a cruise, all-inclusive resort, or tour for your next guys trip, family vacation, or romantic getaway. Click here to [**Book Your Next Vacation**](https://www.mantripping.com/vacation-planning.html). #### Which Style Of Amazon Cruise Should You Pick To Explore World's Largest River? 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