Rosarito, Ensenada and...Tijuana (why not?)

After 9 years in LA, I finally crossed the border into Mexico from San Diego.  As one might expect, it's quite a contrast from the US side to the MX side.  Made me think about other country borders that have a stark contrast.  North Korea & South Korea certainly come to mind.  But Mexico & US are likely near the top.

The 50 mile ride from Rosarito to Ensenada was easy for the first 20 miles.  Families came out to support, and I gave more little kids high fives than I have in the last 5 years!  Very cool and fun experience.

The ride then progressed to 1000 ft. above sea level and was intense for the last 30 miles.  The downhill stretch happened fast near the end and it was awesome.

And the final party in Ensenada was great.  Cinco de Mayo and Mayweather / Pacquiao prep, plus the bike ride finish.  A big day for Ensenada.

On the way back to the border, we decided to watch the fight in Tijuana instead of SD.  Quite an interesting city.  Sketchy would be an understatement.  I find it fascinating that a city like that even exists in North America.  Just about everything goes, and it's had that reputation for a long time; it's part of the culture.

We stumbled upon a brothel / strip club called Hong Kong that turns out to be infamous.  It felt like something out of Roman times.  Almost as many strippers in the club as guys (and it was packed).  Here's a summary from one blogger:

"Hong Kong is one of, if not the, best brothels in North America.  More importantly for my purposes, it is one of, if not the, best strip clubs I’ve ever been to.  If it were located 200 yards to the north, it would be pretty much perfect.  Of course, if it were located 200 yards to the north, the San Diego Police Department would have it shut down immediately."