But more about that later... we need to get there first.
Tijuana was my second destination this morning. First I was going to visit one of my most revered locations on earth. Being an avid student of Eastern traditions and Yoga; I have wanted to visit the site where Paramahansa Yogananda decided to set up his base of operations for the proliferation of Kriya Yoga... the science of god realization.
The temple would be closed today, but the meditation gardens were open during midday hours (Sundays). I had heard of the beauty and careful maintenance of this garden, and was excited to partake in its rejuvenating visuals. I would not be disappointed. Perfectly selected flowers and trees adorned a narrow path as we made our way into the garden. I could instantly point out the followers of yoga from the wandering tourists as they wistfully let themselves get lost in the flora, waterfalls, and exuberant aquatic life. I challenge anyone to enter those gardens and not feel a part of themselves succumb to its beauty. Actually... nevermind... I would prefer you have a seat on any bench and take a moment to revel... let the garden take you in.
Ok, back on the road.
On the way to Tijuana...
It was hot... Where did that come from? The weather had been perfect in the morning; granted we had travelled quite a ways toward the equator and the sun had found its way to straight up by the time we made the border. I cannot legally drive in Mexico because I do not have Mexican auto insurance, and aside from that, rental cars cannot leave the states; thus the mighty jeep was left on the side of stars and stripes.
We walked around narrow corridors looking for an elaborate entrance with customs agents and officers ready verify and guide along the way...
BUT...
We did not find them. Instead, the only thing standing in between us and the land where my dollar bought 14 pesos was a simple metal revolving gate, and a string of cab drivers to ignore.
Eventually after getting lost we took the aid of a cab and for 5 dollars (before tip) we arrived at Revolucion, the shopping district. Either it must have been a slow day; or my confused childhood mind simply was overwhelmed all those years ago... but the streets of Tijuana were remarkably quiet and uneventful.
So the game began. The game anyone who knows about this game must play. The haggling game. Products in Mexico are cheap; Really cheap. So cheap that you can talk down the written price of literally anything. The streets are lined with Mom and Pop shops who are probably marking up products 500%, in hopes of either finding an American dumb enough to pay full price... or to coax them by offering them a severe discount (maybe down to 300% markup).
A $70 dollar blanket became $20. A $25 belt became $11. We had worked out a game plan. If we found something we liked.. we would beg the other to buy it, and deny back as the shop-owners constantly offered us lower prices, additional items, or a shot of tequila. Truly fun. Give it a shot.
After an hour we began to realize that our pale heritages simply were not designed for the heat and made a break for the states... seeking cool frozen beverages and perhaps some time in water...
Tijuana, while only a short distance from the border; is like another world. The poverty is obvious... the difference in services and facilities is drastic, and the part that really bugs you is the realization that this is one of the more affluent areas...
I encourage a visit... bring sunblock, and a poker face...
"I discovered North America and all I got was this lousy t-shirt"
Christopher
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