I am an American student currenty studying in Monterrey, Mexico. I am considering going down south and looking for a way to spend 3 months this summer in either southern Mexico or in Guatemala or Belize. I would need to find some form of unofficial work (ex. hostel, bar) to keep me going. I am looking to better my spanish and learn more about latin american culture. I speak spanish and english and I am willing to do just about anything that sounds like an exciting summer to keep me busy until school starts again in August. Maybe someone has some advice for me or knows someone who might be able to help me out. Any suggestions for a city/lodging? Any type of suggestion or reference will be greatly appreciated, thanks, Pete
It all depends on whether you are more interested in working or passing the time. I have no suggestions for the work, but there are several ideas for isiting. Many students enjoy spending the summer on the beach. In fact, you might pick up a job working as a translator/tour guide in the Cancun area, especially at places like Isla Mujeres. Also, try visiting some of the archeological sites, like Chichen Itza, Palenque, or Uxmal. There is a booming business for guides leading bilingual tours.
Russ
--- "Own only what you can carry with you; know language, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag." Alexander Solzhenitsyn
thanks russ. im considering the yucatan now. found a cheap flight to cancun and between there and cozumel im sure there is something. So u dont think it would be a bad idea to just show up there and hope for a job?
Omar i would love to but Cuzco might be a lil far. thanks for the offer though. buen viaje
You never know what might happen if you show up and start talking to people. I was once offered a job teaching English while I was on vacation in Cancun. There are always people wanting to learn English and who are willing to pay for structured lessons. Since life in Cancun is based on tourism, most people in service jobs are required to know a modicum of the language. Plus, the bilingual ability never hurts for any position. Another thought for you: many of the pubs in Cancun are always looking for bilingual waiters.
Russ
--- "Own only what you can carry with you; know language, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag." Alexander Solzhenitsyn
Nice point, Kerrie. Many people do not realize that Belize was a British colony until the 1960's. My best friend is from Belize. He informs me that the official language of the country is English, and all citizens speak the language. However, the majority of people there also speak a version of the patois that you might find in Jamaica. It must be the Carribbean influence. Very little Spanish can be found in Belize.
Russ
--- "Own only what you can carry with you; know language, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag." Alexander Solzhenitsyn
