According to forum posts, the Quartz Hotel and Spa is recommended for its onsite spa services, making it convenient for those seeking facial and massage services without leaving the hotel. Travelers have mentioned that it offers a pool, two jacuzzis, and a sauna alongside its spa services.

Some travelers said the Lucerna Hotel is another popular option, often praised for its location in Zona Río, which is close to fine dining and shopping areas. The hotel shares the same property with K Towers, which is noted for its rooftop restaurant and no-children policy, appealing to those looking for a quieter stay.

For budget-conscious travelers, the Aqua Rio Hotel is frequently mentioned as a great choice due to its proximity to tourist areas and its value for money. It offers decent breakfast options and has been recently renovated to include improved room features.

For those planning events or parties, such as bachelor parties, Hotel Pueblo Amigo is highlighted for its tolerance towards noise and festivities, making it suitable for lively group stays.

According to forum posts, several major car rental agencies operate in Tijuana, including Sixt, Hertz, and National. These companies have offices at the Tijuana Airport, and some off-site locations offer shuttle service to their offices.

Some travelers said that renting a car in Tijuana can be challenging due to different standards and conditions of vehicles compared to those in the U.S. It's recommended to carefully check the vehicle's condition and ensure the gas tank levels are agreed upon during the pickup. For those planning to drive extensively, such as to Baja or beyond, renting a car might be necessary, whereas for stays within Tijuana, using taxis or Uber is suggested due to heavy local traffic and complex driving conditions.

Travelers have called out the necessity of purchasing Mexican insurance when renting a car in Tijuana. Additionally, it is important to confirm with the rental agency if the car can be taken across the border into the U.S., as not all companies allow this, and those that do often require prior arrangement and additional insurance.

According to forum posts, travelers crossing from Tijuana to the US can choose between walking and using dedicated services such as the Cross Border Xpress (CBX). For pedestrians, the regular passport holders line is recommended, avoiding the Ready Lane or SENTRI/Global Entry lanes unless applicable credentials are held.

For those opting for CBX, travelers have highlighted its convenience for flying into San Diego. This pedestrian toll bridge offers a quicker crossing into the U.S., directly entering the U.S. terminal of the airport. Once in the U.S., transportation options available include buses, taxis, or rideshare services.

Travelers have called out that crossing times can vary significantly based on the day and time, with Sundays and holiday weekends often having the longest waits. It's advised to avoid peak times for a smoother crossing experience.

According to forum posts, Otay Mesa offers pedestrian crossing with access to a SENTRI lane for those with Global Entry, ensuring quicker passage. There's also a Ready Lane for travelers with RFID-enabled travel documents, which tends to be faster than regular lanes.

Travelers have noted that the Otay Mesa border also supports vehicle crossings and is open 24 hours a day. For SENTRI members, specific lanes are designated, although there is a recent adjustment in SENTRI hours from 4 am to 10 pm.

For those without SENTRI, general lanes are available, but wait times can vary depending on the time of day and whether it is a holiday period. Some users have reported wait times ranging from 15 minutes to over an hour.

Travelers recommend considering the time of day for crossing to avoid long waits, especially during peak hours and holidays. Moreover, it's advised to have all necessary documents ready to facilitate a smoother crossing experience.

According to forum posts, parking at the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) offers various options. Travelers can choose between closer lots charging around $25 per day and farther lots for approximately $15 per day.

For those seeking alternatives, some users recommend parking at Las Americas Outlets, though it has become quite expensive. Another economical option mentioned is parking in a residential neighborhood near the East Palomar bus station for stays under 72 hours, but there’s a risk of towing if the stay exceeds this duration.

Many users emphasize the convenience of CBX, particularly highlighting the streamlined border crossing process it offers. Despite the potentially higher cost of parking at CBX itself, the ease of access and reduced hassle at the border make it a favored choice among travelers.

According to forum posts, travelers must have a same-day boarding pass to use the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) bridge. This facility connects the Tijuana Airport directly with a terminal on the U.S. side, facilitating easier transit between the two countries.

Travelers have noted that CBX security processes are similar to those in the U.S., including liquid restrictions. However, unlike some U.S. airports, passengers don't need to remove liquids from carry-ons during screening. For immigration, a valid passport is required to cross, and tourists may need an FMM (tourist card), which can be obtained online or at the airport.

Some users have highlighted that while CBX offers a direct and secure route to the Tijuana Airport, there is a fee involved. The bridge provides a streamlined crossing experience with minimal wait times compared to traditional border crossings, which can be particularly beneficial for those with early flights or tight schedules.

For those not using CBX, alternative crossings such as Otay Mesa and San Ysidro are available. These require a pedestrian or vehicular crossing, potentially leading to longer wait times and the need for separate transportation to the airport in Tijuana.

According to forum posts, Tijuana offers a variety of cultural activities including visits to CECUT, a cultural and history museum, and the interactive science museum El Trompo, which is enjoyable for both children and adults. Art enthusiasts can explore the local art scene on Avenida Revolución, where Pasaje Rodríguez and Pasaje Gómez host art galleries.

For recreational activities, some travelers have mentioned that Tijuana has a vibrant sports scene with options to watch soccer, baseball, and Lucha Libre wrestling when events are scheduled. The city also features several markets like Mercado Hidalgo for a local shopping experience and various street performances, particularly around Hotel Nelson during the day.

Travelers have called out Parque Morelos for its man-made lake where visitors can enjoy boat rides and a small zoo. There’s also a mention of a water park with notable slides, providing a fun day out for families. For beach activities, La Playa by the border wall offers a mix of quiet relaxation and active beachside entertainment.