This time last year, the dollar was officially worth 13.22 pesos. Flash forward to this week, and the value of the dollar has taken a sudden leap from 15.97 to 16.45 pesos over the course of the past seven days. This according to the Official Federal Diary (Diario Oficial de la Federación) that publishes the daily exchange rate. While the going rate on the street varies from the official rate, the leap has nevertheless sparked concern with border residents and the country in general. Making light of the situation, a meme depicting the $20 peso bill as the new dollar bill has circulated the internet this week, as many believe that it is likely that the value of the peso will continue to fall.

The strong dollar is bad news for those who earn pesos. For most border residents, it is practically inevitable to have some expenses fixed in dollars, such as rent, for example, which is commonly charged in dollars in the border region. For those that pay rent in dollars, their housing expense has leaped by about 20% in a year, and by about 5% from last month to this month. Without even crossing the border to the U.S., the dollar takes a toll on many Mexican's wallets.

But, the powerful dollar is good news for those who earn dollars, and for those that visit Mexico from the north. So, if you are one of the lucky ones, now is a great time to take advantage of the increased spending power and visit Mexico. The obvious things to do, of course, are to splurge on a good meal and bottle of wine, or maybe a stay-cation in the Valle de Guadalupe. But, consider the many other things where you can get more bang for your buck if you decide to spend your dollars in Mexico.

Auto Care

Car washes have always been an obvious errand left to run in Mexico, with most basic car washes running at about 70 to 100 pesos (about 5 to 7 dollars), or detail, buff and shine for around 800 pesos (around 50 bucks) . Now is a good time to consider getting a tune-up or maybe get that dent you've been meaning to get fixed finally handled.

Health and Beauty

Consider treating yourself to a haircut, mani-pedi, facial, or spa package. While you're at it, stock up on items from the pharmacy or browse the arts and crafts shops. Unfortunately, most dentists and doctors charge consultations in dollars so you won't find much relief there, but if you need a procedure that requires staying nearby for a couple of nights the strong dollar will mean that hotel and expenses will be much cheaper during your stay. Other things that might run you less are dry cleaning and mending clothes with a tailor.

Groceries

This is a tricky one, because as tempted as you may be to stock up on fresh produce, the list of restricted and prohibited items to take to the US is long and may cause for a headache at the border. But many items you think are not allowable are actually fine. Grocery items that can be crossed to the US include spices, condiments, olive oil, baked goods and processed products, candy, chocolate, most cheese products and canned goods (anything containing meat should be avoided); fresh, canned, smoked, frozen, dried and cooked fish are all okay; as are dried fruits, tea, juice, coffee honey, hulled rice, and flour, including cornmeal.

Stay away from meat, milk, egg, poultry, (including dried products such as bouillon cubes and seasoning packets), and unlabeled foods. Fruits and veggies are also tricky, and it is best to consult online before crossing any of these items to the U.S. as the list can vary from time to time in case. Generally, one liter of alcohol per traveler is allowed duty free. DON'T FORGET TO DECLARE WHAT YOU ARE BRINGING when crossing the border - even if the item is permissible, you must declare it at the border or face steep fines and other consequences.

Entertainment

Now is a great time to take a vacation in Mexico, or a day trip or weekend trip. The price of lodging is usually priced in pesos, as is airfare and public transportation. Mexico is a great place to travel as a couple or with children, with plenty of things to do for all.

Going to the movie theater has always been much cheaper in Mexico than the US, but with the strong dollar this is even truer. An average movie ticket will run you under five dollars, or you can splurge on the VIP movie experience complete with reclining chairs and waiter service for around eight dollars. Popcorn and refreshments are the money maker for theaters in Mexico as in the US, but will still run you much less than north of the border.

You can eat and drink like a king, with many great options to choose from in Tijuana and up the coast to Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe wine region. A street taco will run you about a dollar at today's rate, or you can splurge on gourmet Baja Med cuisine which is likely to run you a lot less than any meal north of the border. In addition to great food, the region is the epicenter of great wine and craft beer.

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