Tijuana holds a special place in my heart. As a young girl I’d take trips across the border with my family in a car packed to the gills with gifts for my cousins who lived minutes from the Otay Mesa port of entry. I remember how people used to speak about Mexico, especially Tijuana, and my experiences never aligned with the racist American propaganda machine that was so easily accepted by others. To see Travel & Leisure name Mexico the 2022 Destination of the Year left me with mixed feelings. Naturally I was thrilled to see travelers aroused to experience the genius, sophistication, and vibrancy of Mexico, but I also shook my head with the knowledge of racist comments and legislation that has been used both past and present towards the people of that nation.

Is it dangerous? I have lost count with how many times I have been asked that question arriving home from trips to Tijuana, La Paz, Todo Santos, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico City, Guadalajara, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen.

Mexico is my favorite country from all my travels. It’s gorgeous beyond imagination. A mere two hours from Los Angeles is Tijuana, Baja California Sur, home to what many consider the best tacos in Mexico. The city is ever evolving with a flourishing culinary community and underground art scene. I am thrilled there are now a couple of boutique hotels, as lodging options always left something to be desired. A few weeks before the pandemic hit the West Coast I had the pleasure of driving down to Tijuana to see Pacoima Techno, a band I was managing at the time, and I enjoyed my stay at Hotel Lafayette, formerly known as One Bunk Inn.

Why book

I prefer to stay in Tijuana rather than the often suggested plan of staying in San Diego and walking over the border. There are two boutique hotels in the city, Hotel Lafayette and Nook Hotel, which fulfill the desire for hip modern design. Located on the historic Revolución Avenue, the hotel is situated on on a bustling street abundant in shops, restaurants, and steps away from the red light district.

Getting to and around the hotel

Hotel Lafayette is mere minutes from the USA / Mexican border. I drove to the hotel with my GPS when I entered Mexico and found it with ease. The streets can be a bit hectic with lots of one-ways so be mindful of that. There’s a gated parking garage across the street from the hotel where I kept my vehicle most of the time, including overnight. I walked most of the stay as the hotel is central to many restaurants and sites. For anything else, I easily booked an Uber.

What the rooms are like

12 unique rooms come equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, toiletries, and continental breakfast. The Hotel is designed by The LWP Group in collaboration with the Jorge Gracia of Gracia Studio. Minimalist and clean, similar to the ACE Hotel but with Mexican accents and more charm. I stayed in a suite which offered ample space and had a glass shower for the more adventurous travelers. Casper mattresses.

Where to eat near the hotel

Situated on the iconic Revolución Ave, in Tijuana, Hotel Lafayette is a perfect starting point for venturous travelers who take pleasure in unlocking the best this Mexican city has to offer. For the style savvy brunch set, Estación Central, a 5 minute walk from the hotel, serves an incredible plato de chilaquiles.

Price

From $150 a night

Location

Hotel Lafayette
Av. Revolución 926
Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C.
+52 (664) 210 1824

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