When I travel, I talk to locals and usually hire someone or tip someone to give me the rundown on the best value for my money; this is how I found the Nelson. The hotel is very old and slightly run down. However, it is clean, safe, and the staff is very helpful. I have read the bad reviews and the comments about tipping off the cops etc. Here is some obvious advice that goes for any foreign country; especially mexico: you are a guest in their country and just because you live in the USA and make considerably more money, and live a nicer lifestyle, does not give you the right to act like a fool and/or act like the people around you are beneath you or not worth your time. Respect the people and their country and you will be treated exactly the same. If you run around drunk out of your mind and acting like an idiot, you in turn will be treated as such. When I go to Tijuana, I go alone, walk the streets day and night alone, and have never, ever, been treated badly or felt unsafe. Yes, you will be approached constantly by vendors asking you to come into their shop, yes you will be approached and asked for money over and over again. Just politely say "no gracias" and continue walking. Dont be rude or give a dirty look etc. just be NICE to the people that are trying to make a living the best way they can.

Ok, now for the Nelson: the location is fantastic! You will be in the heart of the action of Tijuana. Easy walking distance to anything you could want, from leather goods, great street food, dental care, pharmacys, etc. to prostitutes and gentlemans clubs. There are grocery stores, clothing stores with high dollar items available at half what you would pay in the USA (im not talking knock offs either), and array of trinket/gift shops. There is a restaurant, barbershop and a bar in the hotel. The bar is great and is owned by an american. It is frequented by locals and tourists alike. The owner, and his brother who lives in the usa and comes down to bartend on the weekends mostly, will take great care of you and will give you the lowdown on what you are looking for and where to find. The rooms are minimal, but is clean and the bed is comfortable. A/C works great. You will get two towels, two small soaps, a roll of toilet paper when you check in. The price for myself was $36 a night but your mileage will vary depending upon how you carry yourself I would guess from reading others that paid more. Also, if you get to know the bars owner and his brother they will vouch for you and save you another $10 or so if they like you and your not a jerk. The tv has 3 or 4 american channels that are showtime or something like that. There is a deadbolt and a chain lock for the door as well. There is free wifi but only accessible if you are in the lobby area (ask the front desk for the login code). In the hotel you will not feel unsafe, for that matter you shouldnt feel unsafe outside the hotel as long as you are respectful and treat others how you want to be treated. If you are looking for a high end hotel this is NOT the place for you! However, if you want to be in the heart of the action, mingle with the locals, and really experience Tijuana, this is the place for you.

Tips: Go to the little cafe directly across the courtyard from the motel with outdoor seating. Enjosy a beer and carne asada tacos while people watching. The waitstaff are also helpful with information and will take you to the best places you may be looking for (TIP them for their time!!! $10 for a 1/2 hour of their time will definitely mean a lot to them and you will be surpised how fast your in favor with the locals. I dont mean that you are a mark for people trying to get money from you, I mean your helping them and in turn they will look out for you; mutual respect. Also, head over to the revolution district and look for the outdoor taco stands with all the locals surrounding it. The food is awesome, Right next to the stand is a stand with fresh oysters and clams as well if you like fresh raw seafood.

If you have any questions or need some advice feel free to message me. Have fun in Mexico!!!

a very nice hotel, great area, no luxury, great juke box in the bar, all 70 music, if thats your thing, have stayed many times, and will stay again, pg.

I've stayed at the Hotel Nelson twice and will return. Nothing fancy, mind you, but clean, good beds and a great value. I liked it's central location next to the arch, it's lively music in the area and choice of restaurants.

yes we stayed there for 1 night only,.
The Tijuana police were raided by the federal"s - federal police, and they took all thier guns away from them , like little spoiled children, they were not honest, responsible enough, to keep their weapons!
Probably a direct result of complaints of attempted killins,..