Tijuana - Post Report Question and Answers

Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?

I think so, especially in the context of the border region. There are several gay bars downtown on “Revolucion Boulevard” where all the nightlife is, and of course Tijuana has always been the place people came to do all the things they could not in the U.S., so I think the local cultural is historically more welcoming of “non-mainstream” lifestyles, generally speaking. Having said that, “machismo” cultural is very much alive in Baja California and Mexico; and outside of cities people may not be so welcoming. Many Mexicans still hide their true sexual orientation from families and friends. I have found that it is like a lot other more traditional cultures – people are accepting (to your face) as long as you are not related to them, however they would not want one of their own children to be LGBTQIA+ (for example). - Apr 2023


It seems to be. Everyone can date freely and I haven't heard about any couples being harassed or hate crimes being rampant. - Nov 2017


I think so. Friends we had who were gay seemed to enjoy it. But I can't speak directly to their experience. - May 2015


I'm not sure what the gay scene is like in Tijuana but I have also never heard of anyone who is gay feeling uncomfortable or targeted. - Mar 2015


I think so. - Apr 2014


Tijuana isn't as liberal as Mexico City, but there are some gay clubs. San Diego has many options. - Apr 2011


Tijuana has its gay community but it not as "out". It would probably not be considered ok to have a public display of affection in Tijuana between a gay couple. San Diego is definitely gay friendly. - Mar 2011


While Tijuana is a little more "liberal" than other parts of Mexico, it is still Mexico and tends to lean more conservative. - Dec 2010


I believe so, and again - San Diego has a very diverse population. - Aug 2010


I really can't say about Tijuana but San Diego has a pretty thriving gay scene, I'm given to understand. - Mar 2008


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