NOTE: A fellow snowbird whom I met a few years ago in Arizona contributed to this blog.
Los Algodones is the medical tourism capital of Mexico. When I travel to Arizona during the winter months, I always visit Los Algodones which is just south of the Arizona/California borders and only a few miles from Yuma, Arizona.
There are more than 100 dentists and oral surgeons: dozens of optometrists and opticians and dozens of pharmacies and many other medical specialties. All of this and much more within a compact, walkable, dozen or so blocks.
Los Algodones is quite safe and hospitable. They “understand” that tourism is their livelihood and security is a top priority.
– Dentistry
The Mexican dentists are excellent and many of clinics are owned by, and some are extensions of American dental practices in Arizona and California. For the most part, the clinics are state of the art with the latest equipment and practicing the highest hygiene standards and professionalism. Many have their own labs for crowns, implants, bridges, dentures and the like or use the many local labs. This means same day service or very short lab times if not same day. Prices typically range 1/4 to 1/3 the U.S. price. Most do not accept U.S. insurance but do accept credit and debit cards. Most of the people I meet in Arizona are “snowbirds” and they visit Los Algodones to take advantage of the quality services and inexpensive prices. Quite a few have had everything from a basic cleaning to major surgery done and as far as I have heard were very happy with their results.
– Optical
There are many optometrists and opticians in Los Algodones as well, offering complete eye exams, glasses and contacts and are ready in an hour or so. As with dental services, prices are much less expensive than in U.S.
– Prescription Drugs
Los Algodones boasts some 40 or more pharmacies and are staffed by trained and knowledgeable pharmacists just like in the U.S. All of them speak English. You do not need a prescription or pill bottle to purchase Rx drugs. You just need the name of the drug, and the dosage. However, you should be aware that some dosages that are available in the U.S. are not available in Mexico. For example, an acquaintance of mine told me he takes 25 MG of a certain drug daily. It is only available in Mexico in 50 MG tablets, so he simply cuts them in half. Some very specialized drugs or certain drugs that are so new as to still be under exclusive patent may not be cheaper in Mexico. Run of the mill, common generics for treatment of common and wide based conditions are much cheaper there. Most pharmacies will not sell you opioids or other pain killers without a prescription and the most ethical stores will advise you that you cannot take them over the border even with a prescription.
As to bringing Rx back into the US:
The rule is you may bring a 90-day supply for your own use but not opioids and other “pain killers” and Customs will almost always ask you if you have any of them. The reality is that Customs doesn’t know your dosage and won’t question you as to the quantities you have unless it is obvious that the quantity is grossly unreasonable OR you attempt to bring in large quantities of special drugs such as Viagra and the like that can be easily sold.
Finally, try to avoid shopping at the clinics and pharmacies closest to the border. By walking a block or two away from the border, you will get a better price.
General Shopping:
Every single store and stand has a ‘barker’ on the sidewalk enticing you to shop in that store or shopping stall. That’s their job! Just say “no thank you” or “gracias” or just smile and say nothing and continue walking. There is no need to get nasty or say something offensive.
Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate…
This is particularly helpful to your wallet at outdoor stalls. They expect it and will often quote you an initial price of 200 – 300% higher than they will sell something for. No need to concern yourself with currency exchange rates or having Pesos; all commerce is conducted in U.S. dollars. You will encounter ‘street urchins’ selling almost every kind of trinket. Just tell them “No thank you.” There are street prostitutes in Los Algodones but they are not aggressive and will rarely approach you unless you approach them first. They pretty much stay on the edges of busy tourist areas. Prostitution, I’m told is legal in Mexico.
Dining and Entertainment.
There is everything from street tacos to fine dining available. The local food is fresh and delicious. Some dining establishments have entertainment ranging from a solo guitarist to a full band. Eat, shop and enjoy. It’s a fun place!
IMPORTANT GENERAL NOTE:
– All commerce is in U.S. Dollars
– Time zone can be confusing. Los Algodones is in Pacific Time Zone, but many openings/closings are posted in Mountain Time Zone (Yuma and Arizona), so make sure to pay attention. Time Zones are often posted on businesses, but not always.
– The border has been ‘normally’ open from 6:00am until 10:00pm, but since Covid, the hours have been 6:00am to 2:00pm.
– 99.99% of the time your cell phone will NOT work in ANY mode (voice, text, data) from the time you step across the border into Mexico.
– If you plan to use a credit or debit card in Mexico, CALL YOUR BANK IN ADVANCE and alert them to the fact you will be using your card in Mexico. Most banks will automatically decline any purchases made there.
– Everyone speaks at minimum, passable English and some better than others.
– Remember… you are a guest in a FOREIGN COUNTRY. It’s THEIR country with THEIR rules, laws, and customs, etc.
– Leave negative attitudes and opinions at the border. These are hardworking folks trying to make a living serving you and me.
– Regardless of your purpose for visiting Los Algodones; medical or shopping or just lunch and entertainment… GO!
– You’ll have a great time.
Until next time, enjoy the pleasure of getting lost.
There are numerous benefits of traveling this way and cost savings are one of the biggest. Instead of paying for expensive hotels, you can camp for free or for a nominal fee in many scenic locations. Additionally, cooking your own meals in the van saves money on dining out.
In order to have a successful camper van trip, it is important to be well-prepared. Make sure you have a reliable vehicle, all the necessary equipment and enough supplies to last you through the journey. It’s also wise to have a backup plan in case of breakdowns or other unexpected events.
