billyb68

is nogales, actually the mexican side ok with kids?

enjoylife

Why are you thinking of going there? Is it a very poor, run down area.

billyb68

i thought that if it were safe the kids would enjoy seeing the little bit of mexico..i have read that there is some shopping etc there that i thought might interest the kids...

bonesaz

Unless you are looking for prescription drugs or cheap Kahlua, there is not much of a reason to go to Nogales. That said, there is a small mercado area where merchants sell the typical stuff (Baskets, ponchos, blankets, pottery etc) and a few decent restaurants. During the daytime I would consider it safe but keep a close eye on your kids as kidnapping is a problem in Mexico.

pat

Used to live in Tucson. Don`t bother with Nogales. A typical bordertown slum. We used to go for groceries, but that is about it.

giro

I don't know about kidnapping; but I would disagree with all the negativity.If you park on the American side; (there's a public lot next to Mc Donalds right on the border. Once you walk over, the mercantile area is right there. If all you want to do is walk around and shop...you should not hesitate to go. On a weekend day there are many Americans who do so. If you want to eat there, the CAVE is a well respected restaurant.

Lacal

While I agree with giro I don't think Nogales is an example of Mexico. It is a typical border town and caters to the tourist trade. Your kids may be shocked to see the little kids with dirty faces begging or selling chic-lets.

I like the shopping and leather goods are a bargain as is the usual tourist items. I find most of the people to be very friendly and the shopping area to be safe during the day.

I also agree with giro about eating at the Cave.

billyb68

great..thanks alot..i will pass the info to my 7 and 9 year old as they are very sensitive to the poverty issue..especially when it comes to the poor children, but then again they are likely to want to go to give them money...and try to bring a smile to their faces....its up to them now and again THANKS alot for the heads up....

billyb68

is any identification necessary for the kids to get back into the united states from mexico ages 9 and 7??

lenleigh

My family moved to Colorado from Tucson when I was in grade school. Once a year we would go back for spring break and take a day trip to Nogales. Be very prepared for lots of women and young children sitting on the streets begging for money and trying to sell cheap bracelets and things. Take them if you really want to but it's not a good portrayl of the beauty that you can find in most of mexico.

lenleigh

P.S. I read what you said about your kids wanting to give them money. I can remember feeling very bad and uncomfortable at all the people begging. You either feel bad and just ignore them all or your whole wallet will be empty by the end of your visit.