Guanajuato

Program Outline

In Guanajuato we offer two basic courses done 5 different ways. We have group glasses that can be done 15, 20 or 30 hours/week. The 15 hour program is from Monday through Thursday, while the 20 hour program adds five more hours on Friday. If you want the 30 hour group program, you add two hour/day of group lessons each afternoon. The other main option is our combination courses, which have four hours of group in the morning followed by two or three hours of private lessons each afternoon. We emphasize oral communication, conversation, and grammar in lessons tailored to each student’s level of ability. We use a variety of enjoyable and productive language learning exercises. Our teachers are professionals. Classes are held in the morning from 8:30 am until 1 pm, then 2 pm to 4 or 5 pm for those courses with additional hours. Combination courses run on the same schedule with the afternoon two or three hours. Most of the year there is a 6 student max per class, except in the high season where there can be up to 8/class.

Lodging

Students have two options in Guanajuato: homestay and shared apartment. Homestay includes a private room, shared bath, 2 meals/day and weekly laundry service. All of these families are no farther than a 15 minute walk from the school. The student apartment is in the center of the city, with simple, but clean private bedrooms with a shared bath and common area. It is very close to the school and a short walk to many stores, restaurants, bars and shops.

Cultural

Although it is a relatively small city, Guanajuato has a great deal to offer. From the beautiful colonial buildings to modern museums, from the silver mines to the university. The charm of the city is evident in its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque squares. The Festival International Cervantino is a very prestigious and famous festival of culture, music, theatre and dance. It is held annually during the first two week of October and attracts intellectuals, artists and tourists from all over the world.

Location

The school is located in the city of Guanajuato in the central part of Mexico. The population of this important state capital is 120,000. In 1988 the city was declared a “World Heritage Site” by UNESCO for its historical and cultural importance. It is a beautiful colonial city, known as one of the Silver Cities because of the nearby mines that made the conquistadors rich. There are plenty of parks and squares and it is a great place to stroll and visit small cafes. The night life is fun and it is also a university town, so you can sat out as late as you like. The school is located in a quite part of the center of the city. It has 10 classrooms and a number of amenities for students. It is also centrally located to all the shops, restaurants and parks.

Climate

Guanajuato has a pleasant year round climate with temperatures between 55° F and 75° F. So it does not get very hot at anytime of year, but can get a little chilly during the night. You might want to bring a a sweater or a sweatshirt for the night, but that is it.

Local Color

The famous Underground Street, officially known as Calle Miguel Hidalgo has an amazing charm. Following the course of the old Guanajuato River, it runs nearly 3 kilometers beneath the city.

Points of Interest

The Basilica Nuestra Senora is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture and is surrounded by a comfortable plaza next to a flowering garden. Also, the silver mines that produced tons of ore for the Spanish crown are a very interesting day tour.

Hot Tip

The Alfenique Fair occurs during the last days of October and November 1 and 2, at San Fernando Square. There are many different vendors showing their wares including special almond candies in a variety of shapes as well as traditional skulls labeled on foreheads with proper names. There are prizes given to the best works in each category.

Start Dates

A new course starts every Monday of the year. If you are an absolute beginner we recommend that you start on the 1st or 3rd Monday of the month. We are closed on official Mexican holidays; there is no make up for missed classes. National Holidays: 1/1, 2/5, 3/16, 4/3, 5/1, 9/16, 11/2, 11/16, 12/25.