I like to talk about saving money when you travel. But let me tell you about a great way that travel can save you money on your other expenses!
Have you ever looked at your medical or dental bill in the U.S. and wondered if there was a better way? I recently took a quick trip across the California border into Tecate, Mexico, to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. From a $50 professional dental cleaning [17:48] to a completely free eye exam [19:53], my experience was a masterclass in “medical tourism” done right. Many Americans are unaware that top-tier care is just a short walk across the border, often with practitioners who are fully bilingual and use the same high-end technology we see stateside.
But it wasn’t just about the appointments; it was a full cultural experience. While waiting for my new prescription glasses to be ready (which took only an hour!), I accidentally stumbled into a vibrant Epiphany celebration in the town square [04:10]. I found myself joining locals for “Three Kings Bread” and hot drinks [05:16], proving that traveling for medical needs can turn a chore into a vacation. I even visited a famous local bakery where the Three Kings Day rush was in full force [07:07], picking up traditional treats with the spare pesos I had in my pocket.
By the end of the day, I walked back into the U.S. with sparkling clean teeth, two preventative fillings, and a brand-new pair of glasses, plus snacks, for probably less than I would have spent for just one medical appointment north of the border. Watch to find out exactly how much I spent [22:12]! In the U.S., similar dental work alone could easily have quoted me thousands out of pocket [11:02]. Whether you’re looking to save 80% on a major procedure or just want a more personalized experience where you actually spend time with the doctor instead of a hygienist [13:32], Tecate is a hidden gem for anyone looking to take control of their healthcare costs.
Watch the full journey here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXghx6rLygA
Jessica Lippe 