We pretty much have the technology to do it already. The problem is political will. There is none and none in sight. I've heard mention that a competition will arise with the Chinese when they try to go to Mars but I just don't think that will happen. We haven't been trying to keep up with China for decades, there's no Chinese Cold War, we just don't give a shit.
I'm fascinated and excited about space exploration, but when it's a matter of a finite amount of money, brains, and time -- and that's what it is -- how about we figure out Earth first?
Exactly, Paul.
http://mars-one.com/en/