Border Curios, Tijuana

Smack in the middle of the ten lanes designated for cars entering the USA is a row of curio stalls. Sellers from these stalls wander in between the queuing motorists offering a last chance to make a purchase.

The wait is frequently very long and there is usually time to attract the attention of a seller with the item you've changed your mind about buying. Even if the line is moving swiftly, the seller will keep pace to make the sale.

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There are many small curios shops located next to the border, no need to get out of the car, you can take a look while you are in line and sure enough more than one vendor will run to answer any question and try to sell you something. I never buy anything but it's always entertaining watch all the stuff that they have for sale, From fountains, piñatas and Sarapes to Fake Louis Vuitton purses and Disney Characters. If you are really interested on buy something don't agree on the first price they tell you, that is not final and be sure they are not going to be offended if you offer a lot less, it's part of the "Regateo" it's business and they will lower the price until you end up buying it.

What to pay: The less possible, try to negotiate the lowest price possible.

There are numerous stores full of... kitschy souvenirs at the right side of the highway to San Ysidro close to the border. Good location - there are really looong lines to the border there.

What to buy: Hmm... I didn't find anything interesting for me but you can try, good luck :-))).

What to pay: Bargain, bargain, bargain.

Waiting in a loooong line to the U.S. border you can find quite a lot street vendors including - as you can see on my picture - women lying just on the ground.

What to buy: Hmm... nothing. I didn't like anything there but surely you can find something for you.

What to pay: Bargain, bargain, bargain.