News:

Pacific coast's beaches, sunsets lured Dallas developer to Mexico

Saturday, February 28, 2009

By LAURENCE ILIFF / The Dallas Morning News
liliff@dallasnews.com

SAN JOSÉ DEL VALLE, Mexico – Carol Davenport came from Dallas to this booming stretch of the Pacific coast with no Spanish-language skills, no firm job, and savings that needed to last until she made it big.

Those savings are gone after three years, but Davenport, 46, has adapted to a less material lifestyle as she continues to work on housing developments for Americans and volunteers to protect sea turtles.

She has taught English to cover her expenses and moved to a cheaper neighborhood farther from the beach.
But Davenport refuses to give up on her dream of developing agricultural projects and eco-friendly resorts that would represent a "portfolio" of investment options in these tough times.
"There's been some big challenges along the way," said Davenport.
Now, she's moving back to the beach as new projects develop and things are looking up, and not just on the economic front.
"You are talking about the beach, you are talking about the sunsets, you are talking about a completely relaxed environment," she said. Not only do Americans become physically healthier with the move, "it's better for your mental health."