Our experiences with crossing borders has been variable. Sometimes it has been easy. Sometimes it has been challenging. Probably the most difficult border crossing was the last one from Honduras into Nicaragua. Exiting Honduras was no problem. But figuring out which line to stand in and where to go for the TIP (temporary import permit) in Nicaragua was not easy. First we waited in a line of trucks on a bridge until a truck driver motioned us to cut in front of him and drive down the sidewalk on the opposite side. Then get out of the Jeep and head into the immigration building. Stand in one line for I don't know what. Then the long, slow line for the tourist visa, then wait to pay for it. Lines were not labeled well. Then we were told the wrong place for the "aduana" to get the TIP. Drove around for a while in no-man's land before figuring it out. Then have the vehicle searched (no drones) before getting the TIP. Then trying to figure out where to get insurance (a lady at a table at a food stand at the exit). Then on our way. The police only stopped us at one checkpoint where it was good we had all our papers in order for the unfriendly police officers. It seemed like every step took much longer than needed. Almost three hours in total. Ended up driving in the dark before reaching Leon.
Probably the easiest was the Guatemala/El Salvador border. Guatemala was no problem. A little rundown, but easy. The El Salvador side was impressive. A large new building with some very friendly staff. Went quickly with no problems.
My first border crossing into Mexico was not difficult, but I was a little anxious because I wanted to make sure about the TIP and I didn't speak Spanish.
The crossing from Mexico into Belize was a challenge. There are helpers there that work for tips. I think we were scammed by the helper on the Mexican side since we paid an exit tax that I don't think exists. The guy on the Belize side was helpful. He visited with Sheri for some time while they searched the truck. I feel like he deserved a tip. The woman border agent searching the truck was very nice and we chatted and joked around while she checked things out.
All in all we are getting comfortable with border crossings despite the bureaucracy at the Nicaraguan border. It's also very nice to have Sheri along to help find the way and work as a team.
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