Trip Notes - Algodones, Mexico
Walk across the border
Nov 2010
Our family had 'written off' a trip across the border after reading travel advisories, asking around and watching the news. Once we got closer to the border, we softened to the idea after talking to a dozen Americans that had actually been there, recently and had real life experience to relate. Each of them recommended crossing at a point just East of our location, into Algodones. It's a unique opportunity- the Quechan Tribe has a parking lot that borders the border. They charge for parking (currently $7 for a car or $12 for an RV until 10pm), and you walk into Mexico. Within steps, really- steps- you're inside pharmacies, dentists, doctors, liquor stores and a few great restaurants. You could probably hold your breath and make it back to the border- and American assistance if something bad happened, it's that close.
Here's how it happened for us: traveling East on I-8, our GPS told us to keep going past the exit that was clearly marked with signs for MEXICO and the Quechan casino.
This casino is really new, so there must be another one further along
the highway- beware of your GPS. We pulled into the casino to get our
bearings and consider taking the van off the back. It didn't look like
we were right on the border, so we pulled up Google maps and did some
recon- the border was still a few miles along hwy 186 to the border
crossing, which is open from 6am to 10pm. When you get close to the
crossing, you'll have a couple of choices to pull off, even when the
signs begin to proclaim NO STOPPING or STANDING - FINE $199. You'll see
the Sleepy Hollow RV Park on the right, followed immediately by the
daily parking lot (overnight is $22), and then the border. If you pass
the parking lot, you're going across the border. Entry into Mexico looks
easy, minimal inspection- one or two guys casually looking through
every 3rd or 5th vehicle. It's probably the safety of your vehicle, and return trip that should concern you more.
Remember we're pulling a 12 passenger van, and measure about 67 feet
long, so we're not doing any U-Turns on a 2 lane highway... so we pulled
into the parking lot and made for the exit. They kindly allowed us to
leave without paying the $12. We turned back North about 50 feet and
pulled into the RV entrance, driving past the 4 Border Patrol vehicles,
sheriffs truck and state trooper- decorated with a handful of arrestees
sitting around each of the vehicles in cuffs on the ground. Must have been the big bust just before we arrived.
Staying here is $15 to dry camp, or $25 for full hook ups overnight.
Having been off the grid for over a week, we checked in with hook ups.
Pulled into a spot next to a nice looking couple that reassured us
that this was a safe spot, and ultra convenient to our Mexico entry on
foot. They come here regularly, walk into MX for their meds and dental,
and had some helpful tips for us.
Sure enough, it's an easy walk, and an easy return. We held onto the
kids hands tightly, but never had a sense of danger or risk- or not more
than we might usually feel in the US. Eating seems safe- we enjoyed El Paraiso: English menu, $5-8 for a combination platter that was delicious. The music was on loud- Mexican and 70's/80's funk, daiquiri was tasty and potent. This one is left of the first intersection you'll come to, about half way down the block after that left turn, in a courtyard with an archway at the entrance. Bathrooms are clean.
The pharmacy prices were one TENTH of the US prices. The dental was
also competitive, but not as dramatic unless you are having major work
done. The Mexican candy is tasty, except those mango suckers, we carried
a little bit of the tasty candy home too. There are tons of souvenirs, but they are the
same thing block after block. We found success with not making an offer
of less when we were interested- just listen and express that small
amount of interest, then let them lower the price. Keep walking, but
remember where you heard the best price and return to it when you're
ready to buy. Don't worry, they'll remember you when you come back. We
don't know the limits on purchases, but have heard it's important to
know what they are so you don't get stuck. The Pharmacies were pretty
knowledgeable about what was OK to carry back, how much etc you could
purchase, so ask first. Word is that you do not need a prescription for
many meds at the time of purchase or border crossing... When we returned
(with 7 kids in tow) we weren't asked any questions other than a casual
'what's in the bag' without inspection or further questions.
We would comfortably return, and now that we know the routine, would be able to recommend it to friends as well.
If you're interested in more info about Algodones medical care, check this out, or visit this blog.
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