The article presents a very accurate 'snap shot' of living in or around Merida. Mexico is still a developing country, despite pockets of affluance and high tech, many places and systems remain in a different era. That can be part of its charm, but I think people need to experience Merida- 'warts and all' before making a decision if they are going to live in Merida full time. In the five years we have been in Merida, prices have escalated in many areas. Your article is correct when you point out that things are not always up to US standards. Sometimes, things are better, but usually that is not the case. That is something one needs to accept if you want to live here happily. Talk to many residents, ex-pats; ask numerous questions to get a clear and objective picture.