Different strokes fo different folks
I have a different perspective. I don't live in SD anymore, so only go to Tijuana when I come home to visit family. Last few times I have been there, I have sampled the clubs, but then usually just go with SG's instead. While it is true that on average the girls in HK are prettier than the girls on the street, they tend to be made up more, so looks are deceiving.
I spend a lot of time checking out the SG's for both looks and attitude. If I find one attractive, I chat her up and then I can assess if she will treat me right, and agree on the deal before the room. However, my Spanish is pretty good, so perhaps if your language skills are not good, you might not get as good of an experience.
My last few SG experiences have been with pretty girls, as pretty as the HK or AB ones, I have gotten exactly what I have asked for, no rush, and have paid a half of what it would have cost with the club girls.
Shame on you if you live in SD and don't speak decent Spanish! (At least good monger Spanish, LOL).