My co-workers are always bragging about how many trips they've taken to Mexico and what they're going to do the next time they're there.
I really don't get how his country is so corrupt, violent, and poor. Two coastlines of pristine beaches. Tons of natural resources. Hard-working (for the most part) people. Dry, hot climate year-round.
10 years they're going to become Venezuela or they're going to take back the SW.
I know right? As you said they have large amounts of coastline, natural resources, friendly, prosperous and stable northern neighbors, a small, much more easily defensible southern border, agriculture, oil, tourism, great climate, friendly people and decent food, and in general, hard working people.
If they had enjoyed the last 100+ years with a decent government and not a retread of Spanish aristocracy, socialism, and corruption they would be far more advanced than they currently are.