How to Bail to Mexico by Reed

"Some bad news: If you are a single woman, Mexico probably isn’t a good idea. You either date Americans or Mexicans. Most single Americans are well along in years and aren’t looking. There is a musical-beds scene but it isn’t pretty. American women tend to be more educated than the Mexican guys, to have a lot more money, and not (with good reason) to like the average Mexican guy’s attitude toward women.

Mexico isn’t super-cheap, but lots cheaper than the States. A decent meal where I live in Guadalajara runs seven bucks including a glass of wine. Rents vary wildly depending on the usual factors. A friend in Jocotopec has a small but decent two-bedroom apartment for $130, but he isn’t in a gringofied neighborhood. Housing is high now in the major expat towns: I saw a two-bedroom nondescript house going for $129,000. Farther out, you get much better buys. A beer in a bar is a buck or two.

You get a 90-day (sometimes, mysteriously, 180) tourist visa when you land in Mexico. You can then apply for FM-3 status, which is legal residency and what I have. This costs under $250 and has to be renewed annually for half that. To get it you have to demonstrate an income of $1000 a month, $1500 for a couple. It is not a hassle. Driver’s license is easy. So is bringing your car."

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