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Update: I'm here in ensenada already. $1 taco, $2 beer, $300 rent... I'm in heaven . first impression is beyond my expectations, people are so friendly in here. they do everything to help me when I'm in need. night life is crazy, papas & beer kick ass on weekends, and the karaooke nights at mango mango is perfect to learn spanish. haven't got in trouble yet, hope will not. thanks to people of this board, all the information posted here was very helpful. I'll keep sharing my experiences to help others. long live cheapass gringos!

I found an university in Ensenada, they offer private spanish classes for foreigners. 3 days a week, $350 for 60 hours. the deal I've been looking for. I found a motel $20 a night to stay before I rent a house.
I see that everybody in this blog are living in Tijuana but still... share your opinions. I'll let you guys know how it goes.

Thank you very much Mary, I saw the pictures of your complex, looks very nice and as you said will be a great start for someone like me. But what I'm looking for is a house by the ocean. I heard that the beach areas close to Tijuana are not very safe, that's why I consider Ensenada more than Tijuana. I keep on searching, and keeping your advise as an option. Thank you.

Spanish school is not necesserily important. I want to go to a school to socialize more than learning. as HK70 said immersion is the best way to learn a language. Thank you guys for your advices. Please share your opinions, and experiences about where to start how to adapt the culture. And let me know if you are in Ensenada and want to hang out with a newbie.

well, honestly Tijuana scares me. I've been there many times, I know the night life, but I'm not much of a party animal. Everybody tells me it can be dangerous to live over there, and Ensenada is much safer. I still consider Rosarito too, but it's even smaller than Ensenada, and it's too close to dangerous Tijuana, isn't it?
I'm thinking of creative ways for entertaintment in Ensenada. I still couldnt find a spanish course but I know there are dance, guitar, fishing courses. I'm planing to keep myself busy with that kind of activities.
What do you guys think? Please share your experiences. Is Ensenada a ghost town? How dangerous is Tijuana? any spanish schools over there?
thanks a lot for the replies.