Yep, I'm still guitarless :) but have been looking at some options. Considering that I've never held any guitar in my sweaty little hands, I'm entering very uncharted territory.

I will be learning mostly blues with a bit of bluegrass thrown in, and as a result I've been advised that a telecaster is the way to go ( although a strat will do fine as well.).

I am currently wondering if I should go for a Mexican made Fender Telecaster e.g. Standard Series like this one (AUD$500)
https://www.guitarfactoryportmac.com.au/standard-series-telecaster.html

this USA made Tele (AUD$1199)
http://www.mooloolabamusic.com.au/fender-usa-tele-am-special-tele-mn-3sb-electric-guitar-w-bag.html


I don't really want to go down the path of getting a cheapie with a view of upgrading, because I don't want to waste my time right now fiddling with upgrading or wondering if the sound is crap because my playing is crap or the guitar is crap.

At this point of my research, I just don't know which way to go. What say you, oh wise crowd? :)

Are Mexican made guitars of a lower production quality than USA made guitars? So many choices and a huge range of prices, but which one to choose and on what basis?