I have never been so anxious and confused in my life before. My passport hadn't been used in…read moreseveral years and I though since I was in San Diego, why not make a trip across the border and get myself a new stamp...spoiler alert, I didn't get a stamp :(
So I guess this will be a two part review as it gives the aspect of enter Mexico and entering the US. Each side is different and each side has it's own set of rules. Some good, some give you pause, and the agents might want to loosen up a bit when someone is new to this.
As you can tell it was my first time crossing the border to Mexico. Each country you visit is a bit different and this wasn't any different in that aspect. After making the long walk from the transit station we were finally inside and approaching the gates. When we approached we were given our forms to fill out and bring to the desk once we completed them.
The agents on the Mexico side were stern but understanding when we had questions on what was needed on the form. Once I had mine completed, I was onto the agent, where he looked it over, signed off on it, gave me a slip of paper and with no stamp, I was onto the next section. Security.
Much like security at an airport you need to have you bags and items scanned and then make your way to the exit. Being that I was waiting for the rest of my group to clear security I stood around and took it in. Not much in aspect of to see, bathroom for use if you paid, and then you kind of shuffle out the exit down into Tijuana. To note, do not take a picture in here or video. You will get hit with a hefty fine.
Once through the checkpoint you are free to explore. My god is it a chaotic mess when you finally walk down to street level. Tons of street vendors with souvenirs and food and taxis all trying to get you to take their vehicle in hopes of being able to get back here for the next fare.
When you get to see the border for vehicles when making your way back, wow. It is out of this world and kind of mind boggling to see that many vehicles backed up for a checkpoint. Then you make your way back through a long walkway with shops along it. Your last chance to get items duty free before going to the US.
Now, the US portion of the border is just as chaotic, but everything in here feels brighter. But brighter doesn't always translate to quicker. I was just as confused and anxious here as I was going across. It is crazy to figure out which line is going to be you quickest way to get outside.
I entered a line that I thought was going to be great. No one was in the line. When I approached the gate/desk, I walked up to it and thought I'd get right through. As I started to walk I was told to go back and wait, so I did. Then I see the agent wave for someone to walked up. Seeing that I was the only one standing there and no other lines directly next to me I approach again, only to be told to go back. I do again. Then he waves yet again and I approach. This time the agent, on the verge of yelling, tells me to go back. Basically making me think that I should have been able to read his mind that he was calling someone from a few lines over to come to him. How am I supposed to know that. I was ready to go through, no one near me, waving to move forward.
Thank god that another agent at the desk/gate across from him waved me over. Yes, he actually waved me over. This agent was much nicer and a delight to deal with. We made idle chitchat about why was over in Mexico (to be nosy), why I was in San Diego (for work), what I did for work (come to find out that what I do for work impacts him). He was much more kind and gentler in his approach to the situation.
After that debacle was over, back through security and you walk out to the plaza in hopes that the transit train is there waiting for you.
