When it comes to using San Diego/Tijuana’s CBX (Cross Border Xpress), you might hear people say, “It’s simple.” As someone who has lived in the San Diego area for a long time, my previous experience with this Mexican border town was over ten years ago. Back then, it involved searching for a parking spot in southern San Diego County and taking a taxi to the airport in the neighboring country.
Fast forward to the 2020s. Although CBX was created in 2015, I only recently encountered it. The sky bridge connecting a terminal in San Diego to Tijuana International spans the US/Mexican border and is 390 feet long. So far, 20 million passengers have used this unique bi-national airport at one of the busiest border crossings in the world. When I used CBX, I quickly realized its advantages – the airport was not too crowded, very convenient, and often offered flights to various Mexican destinations through Tijuana at fares that were 30 to 50 percent lower than other airports in Southern California.
Upon entering the terminal, the vibrant purple and hot pink decorations hinted at the Mexican influence. With ample 24/7 parking available, I chose valet service to kick off my adventure in style. The process was simple: with a valid passport, boarding pass, and completed Mexican immigration form (FMM), I got a CBX ticket from a self-issuing machine at the terminal entrance. It was important to keep all necessary documents together for a smooth departure and arrival process through CBX. From checking luggage to going through security, it felt like navigating any other airport worldwide.
By mid-morning, I found myself in the Mexican state of Nayarit, known for its diverse geography, including 200 miles of coastline, towering mountains, volcanoes, lagoons, waterfalls, beach towns, and colonial villages. I explored various attractions in Nayarit, each with its own unique charm.
Jala. This charming town had a historic feel, with cobblestone streets lined with orange trees leading to the Our Lady of the Assumption Basilica. My stay at the Nukari Quinta Boutique hotel, an 18th-century mansion, offered a glimpse into the past with its colorful tiles and colonial architecture. The hotel’s Nadira Spa featured ancient healing traditions, and the rooftop restaurant served authentic Mexican cuisine.
From Jala, visiting the Ceboruco Volcano and El Salto Waterfall allowed me to experience Nayarit’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. Exploring San Francisco (San Pancho) and Sayulita revealed lively communities with distinct vibes, from relaxed beach atmospheres to trendy surf culture.
My stay at Hotel Vidanta provided a luxurious resort experience, with amenities like pools, golf courses, a private beach, and entertainment venues.
In conclusion, the smooth journey from the San Diego/Tijuana border to the heart of Mexico, blending old-world charm with modern comforts, left a lasting impression. Like the former governor of my state, I also say, “I’ll be back.” And in my own words, “It was truly uncomplicated.”
Image Source: Jess Kraft / Shutterstock
