http://weather.yahoo.com/forecast/MXBC0003.html
Q: What is NOT allowed or not recommended?
A: Rental cars across border (this aint Canada!), quantities of medications, weapons of any kind, flashy clothes and/or jewerly are not recommended. I tend to leave everything at home I don't need including extra credit cards, etc. Basically don't bring anything you are not willing to lose.
Q: Will my cel phone work?
A: Not well. If you have verizon call to have international turned on it is free. Then in Chula Vista that morning dial *228 to update roaming. This is required the same day as roaming codes change daily between the countries mfor security. Dial the US from Mex by entering 001-areacode-phone number. Expect to pay at least a buck a minute and 50c a txt msg.
Q: Is it safe?
A: TJ can be very dangerous like areas of LA. In Baja it is TJ that most of the reports are about, the rest are Rosarito and occasionally from Ensenada. We are merely passing through the edge of TJ on the big toll road. We are going to a small subburb just north-east of Ensedada, it reminds me a little of WIldomar.
Q: Cost? How much money?
A: TBD
Q: Do I need a passport?
No - From travel.state.gov...
LAND AND SEA TRAVEL
The following summarizes information available on the Department of Homeland Security’s website. - CURRENTLY:
U.S. citizens need to present either (a) a passport, passport card (scheduled to be in full production beginning in July 2008), or WHTI-compliant document; or (b) a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
- LATER:
On June 1, 2009, the U.S. government will implement the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI. The proposed rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or WHTI-compliant document.
Q: What other documents are required?
A: If you are under 18, you are supposed to have a notarized & signed note from both legal gardians (if more then 1) granting permission to leave the country. This is for obvious reasons. I'm not sure how well enforced this rule is and have heard many people don't do it.
Q: What if I am driving?
A: If you drive you have to buy Mexican insurance even if your US insurance covers mexico you still have to buy it.
A tank of gas will get you there from San Diego and back no problem. . . If you drive, make sure your tags/reg is up to date. Heavy window tint is not allowed just like here. Talking on cel while driving is not legal in Baja. If you drive, you have to drive your own car not a barrowed one. Check all compartments and remove everything that isnt required. Speed limits are posted in Kilometers not MPH. Alto means STOP. If you have a Benz or fancy car consider NOT being a driver. Older Volvos are ok to drive.
All drivers are expected to follow my rules. See Eric for Details.
Q: Do I need to know spanish?
A: The key phrase to navigate Baja Mexico is "dos tacos de pescados por favor"
Q: Do they take US money?
A: Yes, and sometimes even when you don't give it to them
Q: What is the Exchange rate?
A: It's usually around 10-1. So before you spend $20 on something there, consider that in their currancy you are paying $200. Ever bought a $200 TShirt?