How to use the Cross Border Xpress to get to La Paz

Balandra Beach, voted the best beach in Mexico by USA TODAY readers in 2016

I have found a new and affordable way to explore Mexico! This summer’s road trip involves a bridge, a short flight, a dirt road that ends up at a historic private resort on the Sea of Cortez, the best beaches in Baja and NO, it’s not Cabo! This month, I am going to La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur, for an unforgettable adventure that doesn’t cost lot of money, unless of course you want to go big!

I know what you are you thinking: Airports? What is he getting us into? Well, technically, if you have the time you can make this journey by car, but I have recently discovered an easy and affordable way to explore Mexico from San Diego using the Cross Border Xpress, an enclosed pedestrian bridge over the border right into Tijuana International Airport. It’s easy and fast! And yes, you need your passport.

The CBX terminal is located 22 miles from downtown San Diego – you can drive or take a taxi or shuttle. Secure parking is $17 per day. Inside, you check-in to your flight at the airline counter, and then walk across the bridge into the departures area of the airport. It’s serviced by all three major Mexican airlines, Aeromexico, Interjet and my favorite, Volaris, which is very easy and affordable to book online. There are several nonstop flights to most major cities in Mexico, and I have found the prices can be as low as $65 each way. That makes it easy to take a few days to check out Mexico City, Guadalajara or, on this trip, La Paz!

In two hours, I touch down in La Paz, pick up my rental car and make my way into town. My first stop is to check-in to my hotel for the night. Located next to the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de La Paz (Our Lady of Peace Cathedral), Hotel Catedral La Paz is brand new with great design and super comfy rooms, complete with a rooftop pool and bar. The best part is the price: $70 per night, with breakfast included!