I'm currently living in Colombia and have run into some issues when it comes to spending money and I'd like to get some thoughts.

First of all, I'm not completely against spending money on a woman. Also, I understand that as a foreigner from a developed nation who is dating in a country where the wages are pitifully low, I am basically expected to pay.

The main problem comes when it starts to feel like I'm seen more as a bank machine than as a potential partner.

For example, many women make it known within the first few interactions that they do not have any money. Not particularly attractive but I get it. They want to make it known that whatever happens, I'm paying. (I've even had one girl actually beg me for money after making out and dancing all night.)

In Colombia there are many, many 'working girls.' They are up-front about the transaction. Other women aren't quite so straightforward.

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I try to set up first dates that are low-investment (a coffee or a beer within a couple-hour window). I don't like doing dinner dates, especially early on (in case we have no chemistry/connection and because it sets a bad precedent). I don't want to be seen as some rich foreigner because frankly, I'm not. Sure, I can survive well compared to the majority of the locals, but I am far from rich.

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I find that in many of the dates women will try to take advantage of my wallet, even when we've agreed to get "coffee" or just walk around the park. Many women also expect to be Ubered/taxied to and from all dates. I've had a woman order a full meal during a coffee date (when I only got coffee) and fully expected me to pay. I took a girl for a nice walk around the park and all she did was ask me to buy her things (food, coffee, treats). I've recently started seeing a girl and made the mistake of taking her out for dinner. Now she's rejected the date ideas of a walk in the park and a visit to the Planetarium -- instead she wants to go for dinner at a restaurant of her choosing in an expensive neighbourhood.

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This is not to say that every woman is money-hungry. I've had some interactions where the women were clearly into me more than my bank account -- but they are few and far between. I would estimate that about 75% of my interactions with local women have had some awkward money issues.

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So, I suppose my question is, do I just accept that in this society where men are expected to pay for everything that money is a major part of what makes me attractive? Do I accept that the majority of women I meet will immediately see dollar signs rather than me? Do I just suck it up and find ways to make more money and therefore spend, spend, spend?

Any suggestions on how to meet women who aren't primarily interested in money? Any feedback is welcome. Thanks!