This is our first trip to Yuma, Arizona. In our 2 years of traveling in the west we have heard lots of people talk about going to Yuma, so we figured we would stop for a few nights on our way to Tucson. Our first campsite is actually in Winterhaven, CA right on the border with Arizona. One important thing to know if you are staying here is that it is on “Arizona time” as is Los Algodones, Mexico.
The first thing we had planned was a trip to Mexico. Everyone who talks about Yuma talks about crossing over to Los Algodones, Mexico. The attraction to this area of Mexico is inexpensive dental work, prescription eyeglasses and prescription medications. Our plan was to get dental cleanings and a new pair of prescription sunglasses.
We started our day off early by dropping Gizmo off at Uptown Pet Spa in Yuma. We then headed to the Quechan Parking Lot (actually in California). It costs $6 to park your car right at the border crossing. Once you are parked you simply walk across the border to Mexico. This is not Cancun or Playa Del Carmen, this location is really all about dental work, eyeglasses and pharmacies. The first thing you will see as you cross the border is the Purple Pharmacy. There are signs out everywhere letting you know the price on commonly prescribed medications.
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