A vibrant border city of more than 2 million people, Tijuana is an anthropology experiment in the making. Its diverse population includes people from mainland Mexico, the United States, and many countries in Central and South America. The border crossing sees 70 million people cross each year. Numerous universities draw students from around the world, while maquiladora factories to the east employ thousands of workers nearby.
In the wake of a global economic recession and Mexican drug wars, the flood of day-trippers from southern California has waned, and locals have taken back the city, giving it a more authentic and multi-dimensional feel. The over-the-top party till you drop vibe has been replaced by an understated tone. Art galleries, upscale restaurants, cultural institutions, and trendy bars are all part of the ongoing transformation.
