Has anyone lived in Mexico?

[ExcuseMyIgnorance]

If so, what's it like? I've read a lot online but it's so varied. Some say it's scary, some say it's perfectly good in most places...

What I'd like to do is perhaps live down there for awhile and save up more money than I could in the states.

[Jody Lynn]

It's perfect for getaways. You must visit Cabo San Lucas!!!

[chestynuts]

Has anyone lived in Mexico?

No and I do not have plans.

[snafu]

Interesting idea if language is not a barrier but with everyone beating on the door to get into the USA why create immigration barriers for yourself. First, try living frugally. Consider it a new adventure, Jesuit-like experience. If employment and income is easily moved, go to a low cost of living area, rent a room ideally within walking distance of work and regularly used/needed services.

Write down each spend, giving every dollar a job. Find like minded, new, frugal friends. Do not spend unnecessarily, do not allow impulse buying. Keep asking yourself 'what is the worst thing that will happen if I don't buy ______. Use a modern version of last century, envelop system. Give each category a spending limit and once reached, no more spending in that category until the next pay cycle.

Chose entertainment that is healthy and mostly free. Use public transportation, walk, bike. Work out ideal caloric intake and stick to healthy, simple to prepare and eat meals. Restaurants and take-out adds at least double cost and ridiculous amount of salt, fat and unpronounceable chemicals. Use leisure time to study economics and understand annual sector swings and how they affect investment.

Transfer 20% off all income, no matter the source to savings to accumulate and facilitate investment. Every penny counts, make your own toothpaste with baking soda for example.

[QuarterMillionMan]

With the drug cartels, corrupt government, and corrupt policia, I would never consider Mexico. They kill people in the streets without hesitation.

[Kennstro]

With the drug cartels, corrupt government, and corrupt policia, I would never consider Mexico. They kill people in the streets without hesitation.

Exactly what i was thinking there were some reports of tourist getting kidnapped or murdered for no real reason in the "safe" areas of mexico i do not really plan to ever visit mexico anytime soon.

[Fishindude77]

Don't drink the water

I know some folks that have a place in Cancun, stay there most of the year and really love it. Pretty low cost compared to the US also. My grandparents used to spend their winters in Mexico city, but that was many years ago. I think there are still plenty of safe places in Mexico, but also some pretty scary places.

[DaveInPgh]