RVers Enjoy Day Trips to Algodones, Mexico

Yuma, Arizona is home to thousands of RV snowbirds who can easily cross the border to visit the Mexican merchant village of Algodones. RVers come to this little Mexican town for dental work and to buy cheap name brand pharmaceutical drugs. Many common drugs are sold over the counter without a prescription. Unfortunately, some folks are afraid to venture into Mexico. Perhaps this story will convince you that it’s a safe and rewarding adventure. Yes, that's me standing out in the street in Mexico. It’s best to go to Algodones early in the day because the line to leave is usually shorter in the morning. Park in the Indian reservation parking lot for $5.00 per car (RV parking is also available and costs more). It’s a short walk from the parking lot to the entry point. Most folks walk because the shopping is close to the entrance. (You may take your car into Mexico, but you'll need to purchase additional insurance coverage). Mexico doesn't check anyone coming into Algodones. The town is clean and handicap accessible. There is a clean (and free) public restroom to the right immediately after you cross the border. Algodones prides itself in keeping a neat appearance (by Mexico standards) and strives to keep their customers (US and Canadian visitors) happy. Once you’re in the village just stroll around and visit the vendor booths and stores. You’ll find a huge assortment of colorful ceramic souvenirs. You’ll see artists painting and can view and purchase their work in US or Canadian currency. There’s also an abundance of traditional Mexican blankets available. Dental offices are everywhere you look. I stopped into one office and spoke with the dentist and asked him what the education requirements were for dentists in Mexico. Dr. Martinez, D.D.S. told me that he had to go to 4 years of dental school and one year of residency. Many RVers have their dental work done here because it’s much cheaper than in the US. Another draw of this little town is the pharmacy trade. My friend and fellow RVer Harley Mason from Guildhall, Vermont is standing in front of one of these pharmacies. These pharmacies are modern and well organized. You need to be selective in your drug shopping because not everything is cheaper here, but you’ll find good deals on name brand drugs that you use every day. Vendors hawk their wares by saying things like, “What you looking for?” “You like to buy something for your wife?” and it can get a little annoying. Just smile and say, “No, thank you” and move on - they won’t be offended, it’s all part of the Mexican merchant culture. If you find something you like offer a lower price and do a little dickering, it’s expected. You're only allowed to cross the border with 3 bottles of pills per person, and when you leave with all your purchases you’ll stand in line for a while waiting to go through US customs. Strike up a conversation with the people around you and find out where they're from. The US customs officers will ask you for ID (I used my passport) and they’ll also ask what you purchased. Once you finish with them you’re back to the parking lot and off to Yuma for lunch. It’s safe, fun and can save you money. Go with a group of friends from the campground and you’ll have a great time. Exploring border to border - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing