This has become my Tijuana home away from home, and I've been staying here often over the last two…read moreyears. A review is long overdue.
Situated on 9th and Constitucion, the Aqua Rio Hotel is a small, three story, economy hotel. Room rates on weekdays run about $35.00 usd, after tax, while room rates on the weekends run about $48.00 usd, after tax. The rooms here are clean and well appointed, and generally nicer than a San Diego, Motel 6, for about half the price.
The clientele are pretty average folks, and I mean that in a good way. Mexicans, and Americans, and they seem to have a recurring Asian tour group, from I think China, that stays there often as well, all of which is also to say, it's not a hooker hotel, or shady drug den, or a loud party spot. There's security in the parking lot all night, and I don't think the staff puts up with parties and disturbances. I've yet to have a bad stay, or feel unsafe.
The Hotel is one block off of Revolution, and a short walk to the restaurants, bars, shops and nightclubs along the strip. It's about a one minute walk to Tacos El Gordo, and a ten minute walk to Baja BBQ, Los Chilaquiles, Colectivo 9, and an El Pollo Feliz. There's also an Italian restaurant around the corner on 9th and Revolucion that makes really good pizzas from scratch. I'm hardly getting under the surface of all of the awesome food, and variety of awesome food, restaurants and street food that make up the area.
Lastly, bring your best Spanglish, as some of the staff speaks English, while most do not. They are however very nice, very helpful and very friendly. I really like this hotel, partly for the good customer service. A continental breakfast is served every morning with ceral, coffee, fruit, toast and toaster waffles. The wifi here is clear and fast, and you can book through Hotels.com or Booking.com.