Learn Spanish:

Why learning Spanish?
Why learning Spanish in Mexico?
Why is Cuernavaca, (City of Eternal Spring) the ideal place to study Spanish?
Why we are the ideal partner to organize your project?

Preparing your trip:

How does the registration process work?
How and when do I pay for my Immersion Program?
What should I pack?
Will I be able to use my electrical appliances, such as a hairdryer in Cuernavaca?
What about insurance?
Will I meet anyone if I go alone?
Which airlines fly to Mexico?
Do you help getting the plane ticket?
What documents are required to enter Mexico?
Are additional documents required for people under 18 years?
What immunizations are required for Mexico?

Arriving in Mexico:

At the customs
Getting your first Mexican money?
How do I get from the Airport of Mexico City to my home stay in Cuernavaca?

Accommodation in Cuernavaca:

What different options of home stays are available?
Should I bring my host family a gift?
Where can I do laundry?
Can I keep staying in my home stay, even when I don't take classes anymore?
Can I keep staying in my home stay, when I decide to change the language school?
I am vegetarian/allergic. Will that be a problem?
Can I choose my own roommate?
Can I have guests at my home?
Are bed linen and towels provided?
Will I be able to use the telephone in my home stay?

Around Cuernavaca:

Where do I find pictures about Cuernavaca?
Where do I find links about Cuernavaca?
Is Cuernavaca safe?
How can I contact you?
How do I get around Cuernavaca?
What sports facilities are available in Cuernavaca?

Your Spanish Program:

When do the programs start?
How far ahead of time do I need to register?
Which are the Legal Holidays in Mexico?
Can I get credit for the courses?
What are registration, tuition and accommodation costs at your school?
Can I get Internet connection in Cuernavaca?

Learn Spanish:

Why learning Spanish?
Because,
-more than 400 Million People are speaking Spanish and this in 20 countries on the globe;
-the Latin population is increasing very fast;
-the Latin population became an important part of the US-Society;
-Spanish is an important business language;
-you will increase your value on the job market knowing Spanish;
-a lot of US and European businesses are expanding to Latin American Countries;
-learning Spanish is fun.

Why learning Spanish in Mexico?
Because,
-Mexico will offer you a rich cultural experience (Aztecs, Maya, Spaniards); it has hundreds of fascinating places waiting to be explored;
-Mexico is a potential economic spot (NAFTA-Member);
-The people in Mexico speak a very clear and pure Spanish;
-the Mexicans are very nice and sociable;
-the Mexican Kitchen is world famous for its tasty food and variety.

Why is Cuernavaca, (City of Eternal Spring) the ideal place to study Spanish?
Because,
-the sun will laugh you in your face quite every day and it is very convenient learning in a mild climate;
-there is a lot of Know how on the spot (Check out our list of services);
-the geographic location of Cuernavaca (heart of Mexico); is a very strategic place for trips or small excursions;
-you can profit from being close to Mexico City without all the inconveniences of staying in the world's biggest city;
-Cuernavaca hosts a lot of Mexican and international intellectuals and artists;
-Cuernavaca offers you a lot of "spare time activities, as sport, museums, excursions, cinema, theatre etc.;
-Cuernavaca is the most in-demand place in Latin America for learning Spanish.

Why we are the ideal partner to organize your project?
Because,
-we are located here in Cuernavaca on the spot and are fully aware of most of the schools and their various strengths ("The message is clear - we are here!");
-we can assist you during your stay in Cuernavaca when you most need us. We speak English, German, Swiss, French and Spanish;
-you can be the beneficiary of our expertise, at no cost (Learn more about us and check out our services!).

Preparing your trip:

How does the registration process work?
1. contact us for any question or doubt concerning your project;
2. register online (here);
3. payment of the registration fee;
4. shortly after getting your registration form and your payment of the registration fee, we will confirm your project. We will already provide you with your future home stay address in Cuernavaca (great for "early birds"). Please contact us, if you don´t get a confirmation from us within 48 hours.

How and when do I pay for my Immersion Program?
The registration fee is due right after registering.
All other fees as pick up, housing and school are due the day of your arriving in Cuernavaca in USD cash or USD traveler checks.

What should I pack?
Dress is informal, so casual clothes such as jeans and shorts are acceptable. Lightweight layer able clothing is a good idea as it is something colder for nights and higher elevations.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as is a hat, if you tend to burn.

You can buy paper, files, etc. in Cuernavaca, but we advise you to purchase textbooks back home and bring them.
For class, pencils and notebooks are necessary and a Spanish dictionary is helpful. Don´t forget a travel guide book (Visit our online book store and take a look at our list of useful books!).
Bring your personal supply of any personal medications you might need and be sure to put these in your carry on luggage.

Other items which might be helpful:
-copies of all important documents as credit cards (leave a specimen back home with your relatives);
-several photographs of you for a student ID
-condoms
-sunglasses
-flashlight
-toiletries
-preferred sunscreen
-bug repellent
-alarm clock
etc.

Will I be able to use my electrical appliances, such as a hairdryer in Cuernavaca?
Yes. Appliances designed to operate in the U.S. operate in Mexico.

What about insurance?
All care and precautions will be taken by your Spanish school, home stay family and us, to insure your safety and well-being. However, we are not responsible for any liability during your stay in Mexico. In the event of inappropriate behavior on the part of the student, we reserve the right to expel you from your home stay and all school related activities.

We recommend checking carefully your coverage of your existing insurance before going abroad. If you have a gab in your coverage, go for a travel insurance - We recommend AllTripInsurance.com

Will I meet anyone if I go alone?
YES! Most of our participants travel independently and are looking to meet other people with an interest in learning a language and discovering another culture. Not only will you meet other language travelers but you’ll meet locals as well, at the school, in your home stay and as you travel.

Which airlines fly to Mexico?
Mexicana and Aeromexico are the country's two major airlines and provide extensive service throughout Mexico, and to major U.S. cities and Canada.
More than 25 of the world's major airlines serve Mexico City and other major centers. We advise our clients traveling from a different continent to arrive a day or two in advance to overcome their jet lag before starting your language course and/or to join the assessment- & information meeting taking place on Saturdays for some programs.

Do you help getting the plane ticket?
Unfortunately for the moment we are not able to provide you with a plane ticket to Mexico. However, we recommend to reserve your spot as soon as possible to get a good fare. This is for instance very important during high season. Contact your local travel agent to help you on this issue.

What documents are required to enter Mexico?
This varies by nationality and by age. Please check with your airline or travel agent when booking your flight. US and Canadian citizens are required to have a photo ID as well a certified copy of their birth certificate, or a valid passport.

Are additional documents required for people under 18 years?
If a minor child is traveling with only one parent, the absent parent should provide notarized consent. If only one parent has legal custody, that parent should be prepared to provide such evidence to airlines and Mexican authorities.

In cases in which a minor child is traveling to Mexico alone or in someone else´s company, then both parents (or the sole, documented custodial parent) should provide notarized consent.

If a child traveling to Mexico has a different last name from the mother and/or father, the parents should be prepared to also provide evidence to airlines and Mexican authorities, such as birth certificate or adoption decree, that they are indeed the parents.

What immunizations are required for Mexico?
No vaccinations are generally required to enter Mexico, but you may want to check this issue with your local physician at least several weeks before traveling.
In any case your "normal" vaccinations like tetanus, diphtheria, etc. should be current. Should you become ill during your stay, we, the school or your family can recommend you a good local physician.

Arriving in Mexico:

At the customs
When entering Mexico you will go through "Imigracíon" where they will check your documents and stamp your tourist card (a blank card will be given to you on your flight). On this card the immigration officer notes the number of days he gives you permission to stay in Mexico. Be sure to get enough days for your total stay in Mexico (till 6 month - but normally arriving by air not more than 90 days).
Don´t lose this card, as you must turn it in leaving Mexico. You are also required to carry it, along with a photo ID, with you throughout your stay in Mexico (a copy does also the job). We recommend making a copy of all documents and store in a separate location. It makes replacing them much easier in case of lost.

Getting your first Mexican money?
The national currency is the Mexican Peso. Electronic cashiers are available throughout the country to withdraw money (Mexican Pesos) with Visa or MasterCard. The ATM-System "RED" & "CIRRUS" are also available at most cashiers. Be aware that Mexico uses the "$"-sign also for the Pesos - don't get confused.

Credit cards are widely accepted. However "on the street" you will need cash. US Dollars will be accepted by taxis, hotels, and restaurants but at higher exchange rates (Make sure to pay in Pesos while here). European currencies will be accepted in the major banks and changing houses. Traveler checks are only accepted in banks and changing houses if in US$ currency.

Banking hours generally run from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday; although certain banks open Saturdays. We recommend that you bring USD Travelers Checks, which you will be able to change in banks or in small money exchange businesses (compare the rates).

We suggest you change your "starting money" immediately on arrival at the airport. The exchange rate is in general favorable to the rate in Cuernavaca! There are no fees for the transaction.

How do I get from the Airport of Mexico City to my home stay in Cuernavaca?
You have different possibilities of transportation to choose from:

Our Pick up Service:
If you are not comfortable with Spanish or you prefer to have assistance on your transfer to Cuernavaca (The airport of Mexico City is sometimes very crowded), you can hire us and we will pick you up and guide you safe to your home stay in Cuernavaca by car or public bus (a fee applies).
We will provide you with details about this service as pick up point etc. after registering.

By bus:
There is also a bus line serving Cuernavaca called "PULLMAN DE MORELOS" These busses are leaving to Cuernavaca from about 6:30 AM till 11 PM. The ride takes 1 hour and about 40 Minutes.

By taxi:
You also can hire a taxi to bring you to Cuernavaca. Please note, that this option is quite expensive.

By rented car:
There are many car rental agencies at the airport of Mexico City as HERTZ, AVIS and ALAMO RENT A CAR. It could be cheaper to reserve your car from abroad - find out!

Accommodation in Cuernavaca:

What different options of home stays are available?
Please check out our section of home stay options.

Should I bring my host family a gift?
Although it is not obligatory, you may wish to bring your host family a gift such as chocolate or a souvenir from your hometown. Also, your host family will be interested in your life back home. Any photos of your house, friends and family are a great beginning for cultural exchange.

Where can I do laundry?
In different areas there are launderettes, which provide laundering, ironing, and dry cleaning. Laundry service is NOT available at the host families.

Can I keep staying in my home stay, even when I don't take classes anymore?
Yes, in general you can, if there are not other reservations coming up! It is therefore best to inform us as soon as possible to extend your reservation!

Can I keep staying in my home stay, when I decide to change the language school?
Yes, we organize your home stay independently from your school. This way you won't have to change your home stay, if you decide to change your school!

I am vegetarian/allergic. Will that be a problem?
No, not at all! If you are vegetarian or allergic to certain food items, please let us know on the registration form. Then, we will take care of that and inform your future host family.

Can I choose my own roommate?
This is only possible for our clients traveling and registering together. Please mention this on your application form.

Can I have guests at my home?
No. Unless you pre-arrange it with your home stay family and he or she agrees. Never bring a friend back with you to stay if your host is not aware of it.

Are bed linen and towels provided?
Yes and they will be changed once a week.

Will I be able to use the telephone in my home stay?
No. Phone calls are expensive in Mexico. It is advised that you buy a telephone card, which you can use in pay phones to call home or friends. However, you may receive calls at your home stay, but please note that you must not receive calls later than 9 PM. Make sure that your friends and family are aware of this. People do forget, especially when they do not take into account the time difference. If family or friends do call you at your home stay, do not speak for too long. Your host or family members may wish to use the phone or are perhaps waiting for a call.

Around Cuernavaca:

Where do I find pictures about Cuernavaca?
Please visit our picture section for some picture about Cuernavaca and surroundings.

Where do I find links about Cuernavaca and Mexico?
Please visit our link section for some links about Cuernavaca and surroundings.

Is Cuernavaca safe?
Yes, it is as safe as a medium size American city. Generally, there are not big problems with crime, especially violent crime, but you need to use common sense when you are out in public, especially at night. Avoid deserted areas, don't leave your purse unattended, be cautious of strangers, etc.
In the daytime, you can walk all around the city by yourself and take public transportation without having to worry unduly. We and your host family will give you good advice about personal safety, and if you can do things in groups, that's always a wise plan.

How can I contact you?
As we are located in Cuernavaca, we are easy to reach by local call, fax or via email.

Our office hours are from 9 AM till 6 PM during the week and 24 hours for emergencies.
Contact us now!

How do I get around Cuernavaca?
Because of Cuernavaca's mild weather, it is a perfect city for walking around. All major avenues feature "rutas" or buses running to and from various destinations, and cost around 35 cents per ride. After 8 PM it is advisable to use a "radio taxi." Be sure to always negotiate the taxi fare before you head for your destination. Try always to sit in the back seat and also try to travel with a group. Like in any mid-size city, use common sense when getting around.

What sports facilities are available in Cuernavaca?
There are several gym and a couple swimming pools. There are also large parks. Tennis, and Golf is also available. We can look into other sporting facilities, if you have specific interests.

Your Spanish Program:

When do the programs start?
The group programs last from just one week to several months throughout the year starting each Monday. Students usually arrive the Friday, Saturday or Sunday before.

Individual classes can start every day during the week.

How far ahead of time do I need to register?
As a general rule, you will need to register at least 2-4 weeks before the class starts for language school. However, you should plan to register as early as possible in order to be sure of getting the classes and accommodations you want.

As we are located on the spot, we are also able to organize your project just a couple of days ahead.

We already provide you with your home stay address right after completing the registration process (First in - first serve).

Which are the Legal Holidays in Mexico?
Mexicans are party-makers and every event is a reason to celebrate. If possible, we recommend your stay during one of Mexico's National Holidays in order to share with the Mexicans this folklore. Commerce is open 7 days a week / 365 days a year in the major cities and tourist areas.

There are no refunds, if a school day coincides with a mentioned Holiday!

Jan. 1 Feb. 5 Mar. 21 Mar or Apr. May. 1 Sep. 16 Nov. 1 Nov. 20 Dic. 25

New Year's day (Año nuevo) Constitution Day (Aniversario Constitución) Birthday of Benito Juarez (Natalicio de Benito Juarez) Good Friday (Viernes santo) Labor Day (Día del trabajo) Independence Day (Día de Independecia) All Saints´ Day (Día de Muertos) Mexican Revolution (Aniversario Revolución) Christmas Day (Navidad)

Can I get credit for the courses?
Depending on the policies of your home college or university, you can normally get credits for your study abroad program. (Contact us for further question on this issue!)

What are registration, tuition and accommodation costs at your school?
You can find the list of the actual prices here.

Can I get Internet connection in Cuernavaca?
Yes, there are many Internet cafes near the school and host families. Connection is usually very cheap, from 10-20 Pesos per hour.

Most schools are also offering Internet access for their students.

Let us know, if you plan to travel with your laptop and need an Internet connection while staying in Cuernavaca. Don't forget to back up your information before leaving your home and set up a boot password...