If you have done any checking around or looked on the Internet, you already know that you can save a lot of money by getting your Dental Implants done in Tijuana, Mexico. However, you may be unsure about how to safely and affordably get across the border.. This is especially true if you have never crossed the border before, don't speak any Spanish or have apprehensions about Mexico and Tijuana
There are many false conceptions and irrational fears about crossing the border and going into Tijuana. Yes, there is some violence, like in any major city in the USA, but it is targeted at those that are actively in unlawful activities and those in law enforcement who are fighting the criminals. If you are not involved in illicit activities, there is nothing to worry about. Life continues "business as usual" for most people, residents and visitors as well. Whenever you travel to any city in the world, you should know which areas are safe and others not recommended to be visited. Any local hotel or business should be able to guide you.
Over the past several years, there has not been a single incidence of a medical tourist coming across the border being injured or attacked!None of the thousands of patients that visit us every year has reported any problems or incidents.That is good news.
There are several safe methods to cross the border to visit our office as well as any of the other medical facilities located in the neighborhood.
US Hotel and Shuttle
Staying in a nice Hotel on the US side of the border and crossing over in a shuttle is especially suited for those who do not live near the border. Many of our dental patients stay at the Best Western Americana Inn located nearby in San Ysidro, CA. They offer a shuttle service that takes you directly from the hotel to the clinic of your choice and then, after your work is done, picks you up and takes you back across the border. This door to door service is very convenient and safe, especially for those who have concerns and/or do not speak any Spanish. Their room rates are about $79 a night and includes the shuttle back and forth. Call them at 1-800-553-3933 or 619-428-5521.
Dental Vacation / Dental Tourism
You may want to make a holiday out of it. You may have heard the term medical tourism or dental tourism? Come on down to Mexico for a holiday - alone or with your family. You can stay at one of the local luxury hotels or at a nearby resort and then have the hotel or resort ferry you back and forth between our dental clinic and your vacation residence.
You can stay in nearby Rosarito, Ensenada or one of the smaller resort areas along the coast, like Las Rocas Resort & Spa. There are also many very nice hotels in Tijuana some within walking distance of our clinic. A few to consider are Grand Hotel, Hotel Lucerna, and Camino Real.
Taxi
Another option is taking a taxi from the Tijuana side of the border directly to our office. You can take the San Diego trolley all the way to the border or you can park in one of the border parking lots. The border parking lots are inexpensive and you can usually park there the whole day for about $6.
Once you are at the border, you simply walk across the elevated bridge and then cross through the USA - Mexican gates. The area is patrolled by US and Mexican police so you can feel safe and secure. After you walk through the last gates, go straight ahead about 50 yards and you will be greeted by the Yellow Taxi. drivers who can take you directly to our offices, or any other Tijuana medical office. The cost from the border to or office is only $8.
Even though many of the taxi drivers speak English, it makes sense to print out a map with the address of the dental office. Just like in any big city, some taxi drivers have lots of experience and know the town like the back of the hand. Others might be rookies and not know where the dental and medical clinics are located. Bring out a copy of the address and take it with you. It can't hurt.
When your visit is complete, the office staff can call a cab that will come and pick you up at our offices and take you directly to the US border crossing. You then walk to the security area through US customs. You will need to show your passport to get back into the United States. It usually takes less than a half hour to walk from where the taxis drop you off to get through US immigration control. Once you are back in the US, you can hop on the trolley or walk to your parked car.
You can also drive across. Crossing the border to get into Mexico is usually very fast and easy. However, the return trip may take you awhile as you may get stuck in traffic re-entering the United States. If you are lucky, and hit the line mid day, you may get through in a half hour or less. If you are unlucky, it may take you two hours or more. It depends on the time of the day, whether it is a holiday, and how many US immigration agents are working the gates.
However, probably the most efficient and speedy way to get to most Tijuana Dentists is by taking a taxi from the border to and from.
