### Tijuana Restaurants Extend Hours to Attract More Foreign Diners
In a bid to accommodate the influx of diners from the United States, especially during holiday weekends, many restaurants in Tijuana have extended their operating hours. Zaida López Sánchez, president of the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) of Tijuana, reported that this effort aims to capture more customers from south of the California border.
“Some restaurant owners are adjusting to later hours to serve all the visitors from the United States, who often come to enjoy tacos,” Sánchez said. She noted that an estimated 30% of the patrons in Tijuana’s restaurants are from southern California.
Despite concerns about the fluctuating dollar, Sánchez asserted that the sector has not yet felt any significant impact from the exchange rate. Still, the extended hours during U.S. holiday weekends have resulted in a noticeable economic boost in Tijuana and the surrounding areas.
### Related News: Economic Impact of U.S. Tourists
Additional reports have highlighted that the increased presence of U.S. tourists in Tijuana is contributing to a substantial economic uplift. According to local analysts, the recent Labor Day weekend saw a significant rise in economic activities in both the food and hospitality sectors. Restaurants, in particular, reported a higher than usual influx of diners, reflecting a broader trend of cross-border spending.
Moreover, local businesses have been buoyed by the extended hours, which not only attract more customers but also create more job opportunities within the sector. This strategy seems effective in countering any potential negative impacts associated with currency fluctuations.
### High Demand for Culinary Education
In other local updates, the demand for the gastronomy degree at the University of Tijuana (UTT) remains high. The university has reported a record number of applications, reflecting the growing interest in culinary arts and the broader food industry in the region.
### Price Surge in Essential Commodities
On the economic front, Tijuana residents have experienced a sharp increase in the prices of essential goods like lemons and avocados, which have surpassed 100 pesos per kilo. Experts suggest that this inflationary trend might stabilize by March next year, providing some relief to consumers.
### Local Projects and Community Efforts
In community news, efforts are underway to beautify Tijuana with a series of projects intended to improve the city’s aesthetic appeal, not only for the upcoming Tourist Market but as long-term enhancements. Additionally, the government is facing criticism for inadequate support to local initiatives like the Padre Chava breakfast program, which has not received anticipated funding for 2024.
### Safety and Sports Updates
On the safety front, Tijuana continues to contend with various challenges, including recent explosions and ongoing issues related to disappearances. Meanwhile, in sports, the city’s soccer team, Xolos of Tijuana, is making strategic preparations during the FIFA break to ensure a strong restart to the championship.
For more updates and comprehensive news coverage, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.