Why Journey to a Border Town?

Hello and thanks for stopping by. Today I wanted to talk a little about going over the border into Mexico. There are many places to cross into Mexico but I’m going to be talking about the border town of Nogales, that is only about 60 miles from Tucson. I know recently there was a tragic happening in a border town across from Texas. We also hear many stories about Americans disappearing while on vacation in Mexico, then again we hear stories of tourist having problems around the globe, including in America. The point is bad things can happen to one anywhere in the world. That being said, should that be a reason not to explore the world and enjoy other cultures? I will leave that decision up to you and if you do decide you’d like to do a quick visit to the border town of Nogales then read on!

In 1853, Nogales officially became part of the United States of America after the Gadsden purchase. The purchase split the city into two parts, one on the Mexican side and one on the American side. In August of 1918, a battle between the U.S. Army forces and Mexican militia broke out due to the decade-long tension built up from the Mexican Revolution. As a consequence of the violence, the first permanent border wall was built between Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora. (The name Nogales means, Walnut or Walnut tree). One thing for sure is that the moment you cross the border you’re in another country. On the American side you can park in the McDonald’s parking lot if you buy some food. You won’t find a Micky D’s on the other side of the fence and honestly I am happy about that. There are many places to park on the American side that are very close to the entrance and usually unless you really need to drive over the border this is the easiest way to go. Modest parking fees range from $2.50 an hour to $6 for the day. If you do decide to drive be aware that you can’t take a rental vehicle unless it’s from Alamo and you get the travel insurance. If you take your own car purchasing Mexican travel insurance might be a smart thing to do, it’s also very inexpensive . For your first foray I recommend parking in a paid secure lot and walking over.

Once you cross the border you will be greeted by men asking if you need a taxi or trying to guide you into a pharmacy. There is a plaza and it is filled with Pharmacies. The reason for this is that many older Americans on a fixed income come over the border to purchase their medications at a fraction of the cost. You also don’t need a prescription in many cases. Just as an example, an asthma inhaler in America with insurance is $30, same manufacturer same strength in Mexico, $3! So you can see the appeal. Americans also do this on the northern border into Canada, so it’s nothing new. However in Nogales it has become almost a show with each vendor trying to get you to come into their shop. My advice, keep walking because the further in you go the less touristy it becomes and you can find Walgreen type pharmacies. I like going to Benavides Pharmacy on Avenida Álvaro Obregón 1220, Bolivar, 84060 Nogales, SON, Mexico. It’s within walking distance of the border and yes they speak English.

Another reason many retired people visit Nogales is to have their dental work done at a reduced rate. Many of the dentist are trained in America, live in America and work in Nogales. I have spoken to a few people who come down for dental work and many have been with their dentist for 20 years or more. One woman was getting dentures and the cast was shipped off to Phoenix to be made and still was costing her a couple thousand less than going to a dentist in Tucson. I also learned a new thing and that is people come down to get their hair and nails done. So they make it a day and end it with going to one of several delicious restaurants. There are also some very interesting shops you should explore and if you’re lucky you’ll find one where they offer you a shot of tequila! I’m sure it’s used to lull you into buying but it’s fun. One such shop has a man that has become somewhat of a friend his name is Jorge, and he is also a good tour guide, for a few extra bucks. Many of the shops offer the same merchandise so you’ll want to feel it out and see if you’re happy with the merchant. Since going back a few times I have learned that Jorge is also a good artist and has a unique Mexican folk style of drawing animals of the desert. That reminds me there is also an art museum that displays many amazing Mexican artist. When I went last time they were in the middle of changing exhibits so the entrance fee was only a cup of coffee! You never know what you’ll find in Nogales. Stroll the streets and explore, just say “no thank you” to everyone that tries to get you into their shop and let your intuition guide you into a fun place. There’s some amazing hand blown glasses and pottery. You can also have a pair of cowboy boots hand made for you, for a reasonable price. Across the street from the museum is the bakery where you can try a variety of Mexican pastries. Look for the Cochito, little piggy in Spanish, it’s a Mexican gingerbread cookie in the shape of a pig. Delicious with a hot beverage.

Since this is a food blog, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a couple restaurants. There are two that are frequented by Americans and locals. One is Leo’s and it has been around since 1970. It’s conveniently located in the heart of the dentist/ hair dresser area. They serve a variety of foods in a family restaurant atmosphere. The owner “Leo” greets every customer, remembers their names and gives you a free shot of tequila if you become a regular. I was amazed at how many people’s names he remembered, and the place was packed. I can see why Americans come back again and again, it’s like home across the border. The food was tasty and the prices were way below what you’d pay in the states. The other place I have been too is a bit fancier. La Roca,(the Rock) is a restaurant carved into the side of a hill in solid rock. The waiters all wear white tux’s, the atmosphere is old world charming and the food is “Muy Delicioso”. The one problem with La Roca is getting there. First it’s across some railroad tracks and you have to cross the street that leads to the border then the sidewalks are a little uneven. Once you get there you also have a flight of steps to walk up so it’s not very handicap accessible. However if you can manage the steps you can take a quick 5 minute taxi ride to avoid the other obstacles. The last time there we had three entrees, guacamole and margaritas all for only $50. The 5 star treatment and ambiance are well worth the price tag.

I do enjoy a day trip to Nogales from time to time. If you need medications or a dentist, it can be a great savings for you. There’s a certain excitement that comes with going to another country, even just across the border, yes, you’ll be approached by vendors and a few people asking for money, but it’s not unlike going to New York City! So, just stay vigilant, keep your purse zipped up, your wallet in your front pocket and you’ll be good to go. Remember even in other countries the individual towns have certain customs so don’t assume just because its right over the border that’s its going to be just like America, because it isn’t! If you have other pointers for visiting other countries please let us know in the comment box. If you have any questions please send them in and I’ll get right to them! Thanks, for stopping by and until next time, Boone Appétit!