Are there in places to shop in TJ??

[MagnoliaGurl]

Hey everyone! I am getting banded January 29 and I was wondering were there any great spots to do some shopping

in TJ?? I thought I might do some on my second day after surgery if I felt like it?? I would love to visit a market or something like that..

I am also concerned about all of the violence going on in TJ right now.. Does anyone have any experiences with problems

while there or is anyone else concerned??

I really enjoy reading all these forums and I'm so thankful to have them!!!

[stormy]

Oh my God, is there ever. Revolution AVE is incredible. I shopped for hours. At least it seemed like it. It was wonderful. I got some great stuff. I felt completely safe there. Ask the hotel, if you are staying at Lucerna, they will make sure you get there and back by cab. If that was any reflection on the shopping available in Mexico, I cant wait to visit all of Mexico cause that was very cool.

[ckiki]

I read an article the other day about how the gangs are killing random innocent people in places like shopping malls, restaurants and bars, and for the first time, I questioned whether I was making the right decision in going down there. I live in Southern Cali, and so I know violence exists everywhere, but they are treating these killings like terrorist attacks, and makes me wonder if these people are targeting certain people like American's to get their point across to the government. It has me a little nervous. I don't dare tell my mother, who is going with me, or she would freak and say she's not going.

[tnm75]

I went to Revolution Avenue. I got some great silver jewelry, sunglasses and Mexican vanilla! I felt safe... and, I was by myself. Of course... an American on Revolution Avenue is bombarded with shop owners promising you the best deal. Don't pay what they are asking! Rule of thumb... I learned this while vacationing in Mexico from a Mexico-native, always talk them down to half of what they are asking for. I tip the seller a buck or two. Not because I had to, but because I feel so fortunate for what I have.

Kristy

[JazzyJude]

I went to Revolution Avenue. I got some great silver jewelry, sunglasses and Mexican vanilla! I felt safe... and, I was by myself. Of course... an American on Revolution Avenue is bombarded with shop owners promising you the best deal. Don't pay what they are asking! Rule of thumb... I learned this while vacationing in Mexico from a Mexico-native, always talk them down to half of what they are asking for. I tip the seller a buck or two. Not because I had to, but because I feel so fortunate for what I have.

Kristy

Good post Kristy and yes, always go half of what they offer. And if they barter, then I walk away and LISTEN for if they say 'ok'...then turn around and pay what I suggested. It really works.

Yes, Revolucion Ave is one of the best places, since it is near the clinic. They have other malls around, but if you don't know the area, don't even try to adventure because they are ALWAYS road constructions going on and you never know what streets are being blocked off, etc. But they never do it around Revolucion Ave! LOL...business is business and that is where the most is at. Bring LOTS of single and five dollars, don't bring large bills because they will try to weedle more from you or say they don't have the change, etc. Be conservative and it is best to look around before starting bartering in case another shop may have the same items for less.

Kristy ~ don't you just love the Mexican vanilla! Try making adding it to your cocoa or coffee with that...oh so good! Depending on the recipe, you may want to use just a tad less, as it is a stronger. I love it myself and CHEAP!!! I'd paid as low as a $1.00! Enjoy it!

[MagnoliaGurl]

I read an article the other day about how the gangs are killing random innocent people in places like shopping malls, restaurants and bars, and for the first time, I questioned whether I was making the right decision in going down there. I live in Southern Cali, and so I know violence exists everywhere, but they are treating these killings like terrorist attacks, and makes me wonder if these people are targeting certain people like American's to get their point across to the government. It has me a little nervous. I don't dare tell my mother, who is going with me, or she would freak and say she's not going.

I read the same article you did!! The random killing is what scares me the most.. I don't plan on visiting any malls or

restaurants anyway. I think I'm more nervous about possible violence than I am the surgery..

BTW, where is Revolution Avenue? Is it within walking distance of the hotel or clinic or will I have to take a cab??

[JazzyJude]

I read the same article you did!! The random killing is what scares me the most.. I don't plan on visiting any malls or

restaurants anyway. I think I'm more nervous about possible violence than I am the surgery..

BTW, where is Revolution Avenue? Is it within walking distance of the hotel or clinic or will I have to take a cab??

Just a few blocks from the clinic and the hotel is close by too...so either way. This is a good thing to walk off any gas bubbles you may have! And don't be nervous, just be aware of your surroundings; don't put all your money in one place, etc. Just like going to a new place you've never been before. Always be prepared for the unknow is my motto for traveling.

The surgery is a piece of cake and the OCC staff are WONDERFUL! Enjoy being pampered while there!

[tnm75]

I would suggest taking a taxi to Revolution Avenue. However, be prepared for the ride of your life. Tijuana traffic is nuts! And Jude, love love love the Mexican vanilla... I brought back eight bottles. One for me and the rest are going in Christmas stockings for my mom, sisters and sisters-in-law.

Kristy

[IAD2TJU]

I read the same article you did!! The random killing is what scares me the most.. I don't plan on visiting any malls or

restaurants anyway. I think I'm more nervous about possible violence than I am the surgery..

BTW, where is Revolution Avenue? Is it within walking distance of the hotel or clinic or will I have to take a cab??

I was thinking the exact same thing about the violence. I have surgery on Jan2. Does anyone know if this latest violence being reported is in

the same area as OCC and our Hotel? I am with you, I am not scared for surgery, I am worried about the violence.

[labella]

I was thinking the exact same thing about the violence. I have surgery on Jan2. Does anyone know if this latest violence being reported is in

the same area as OCC and our Hotel? I am with you, I am not scared for surgery, I am worried about the violence.

I just returned Saturday from surgery with Dr. Ortiz. He and the entire staff are awesome.

From the moment you arrive the experience is par excellence

I did tip Carlita and Rosa as I was extremely grateful for their attentiveness for every little sigh. They were very appreciative.

The Hotel Lucerna is comfortable and clean with a smiling accommodating staff.

All of the food at the restaurants at the Hotel had excellent service as food presentation and taste as I feasted my eyes on my husbands entrees without a wince of hunger.

The Brunch on Saturday was beautiful and appealing.

We did venture out Friday evening to the Restaurant 2 blocks from the Hotel for the ambience and Mariachias. Festive and typical Mexican fun environment. I brought my own broth and had some before and after the festivities, although I did not feel any hunger pangs. There is a coffeemaker in the room for coffee and hot water.

There is also an excellent Taco stand one block from the Hotel on the way to the Restaurant. Clean and delicious. They serve a delicious broth with cilantro and small onion pieces for flavor. Sipping flavor was perfect.

We walked with another couple and felt quite safe and had a nice evening.

Relax, enjoy your journey. Make it a good one. You are in the best of hands and care!

They make it easy and relaxing for you

Labella Jacqueline