How does one become an exchange student?
I have my GED and I was wanting to know about how I can become an exchange student to learn spanish fluently in Mexico. What would be my first step? I know how to speak conversationally, I just want to stay there for 7-8 months so I can speak fluently.
Studying Abroad - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
just go to Mexico and apply to any school
2 :
I don't understand, are you attending school? if not, then you can't be an exchange student.
3 :
Either apply to a school in Mexico or enter a school in the US and then apply through them to do a semester or year abroad as part of your degree there.
4 :
You can always go down there and study simply from being around normal fluent speakers. You need to go to college or some form of post 2ndary education to become an exchange student, if thats the title that you want. It's up to you t decide what you want to do with it.
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Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Do you think Harvard accepts students from Mexico?
Do you think Harvard accepts students from Mexico?
Like if they made high school over there and have the grades and everything for Harvard, but they studied in Mexico?
Higher Education (University +) - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Yes, I don't see why not. You'll probably have to pass an exam to make sure you know english. Pero no es nada que no puedas hacer, y te deseo mucha suerte por que en Harvard solo acceptan como 7% de la gente que applican para la universida.
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Like if they made high school over there and have the grades and everything for Harvard, but they studied in Mexico?
Higher Education (University +) - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Yes, I don't see why not. You'll probably have to pass an exam to make sure you know english. Pero no es nada que no puedas hacer, y te deseo mucha suerte por que en Harvard solo acceptan como 7% de la gente que applican para la universida.
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Saturday, January 28, 2012
student visa for mexico?
student visa for mexico?
i will be moveing to mexico very soon with my mom and my family iam 18 and not yet finshed high school what do i need to be able to attend a high school there?
Other - Mexico - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If you are only going to be on a tourist visa, you will need to pay tuition even if it is a public school. If you have an FM3 visa, you should not have to pay tuition in a public school. Bring copies of all your previous records. Do you speak Spanish fluently? Will you be able to keep up in a regular, Spanish-speaking school? There are some private schools in areas with lots of Americans in English...but these are few. Most high schools offer English as a class, but other classes are in Spanish. There are many private schools as well as public schools. In some places the public schools have very high standards and are excellent...depends on where you are. To enter high school, there is a very stiff qualifying test. Kids who cannot pass that test must attend a private school ( they will admit anyone with money) until they can pass that test. When you arrive in the city where you will be living...you and your parents need to talk to neighbors, employer, etc. and ask about the best school for you...then go and talk to the director of the school. High school in Mexico does not involve goofing off and misbehavior...that kind of thing is simply not tolerated and kids who even think about it are out. It is dead serious with lots of hard work. most kids who graduate from high school here are at least at the level of kids who have finished at least one year of college in the U.S. I have a wonderful young friend who is not quite 18 and is in his last year of prepatoria...high school. he works very hard...he needs to be sure he can qualify to enter university next fall... and that is totally dependent on his performance this year. If you decide to attend university later, in mexico, then you will need to apply for a student visa through the local INM ( immigration ) office.
2 :
i agree with what the other person said. especially about the standards, theres no advance classes, honors etc etc, eveyone get on the same program and it means that all get on the ball with calculus for example in order to graduate. i moved to do highschool in the US and can tell you i got the slack time of of my life and kept a 3.85 gpa some classes didnt get challenging until junior year, especially math and sciences. sp be ready to put some hard work and NOT get any pretty bragging name for it, you fail theres no become a junior if you didint pass all sophomore, you re-do sophomore and things like that. if you talk to the teacher disrespectfully you can be in serius trouble. one thing you may love is that many other things are very relaxed, like on breaks between clases many of my friends would just go to the bar close by the school and have a beer, (yes you can leave the school at any time pretty much and come back) smoking in open areas also if youre into that AND youll nnever experience a prom night like a mexican graduation ;-) im serius, middle school graduation parties are even better than prom in the US.
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i will be moveing to mexico very soon with my mom and my family iam 18 and not yet finshed high school what do i need to be able to attend a high school there?
Other - Mexico - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If you are only going to be on a tourist visa, you will need to pay tuition even if it is a public school. If you have an FM3 visa, you should not have to pay tuition in a public school. Bring copies of all your previous records. Do you speak Spanish fluently? Will you be able to keep up in a regular, Spanish-speaking school? There are some private schools in areas with lots of Americans in English...but these are few. Most high schools offer English as a class, but other classes are in Spanish. There are many private schools as well as public schools. In some places the public schools have very high standards and are excellent...depends on where you are. To enter high school, there is a very stiff qualifying test. Kids who cannot pass that test must attend a private school ( they will admit anyone with money) until they can pass that test. When you arrive in the city where you will be living...you and your parents need to talk to neighbors, employer, etc. and ask about the best school for you...then go and talk to the director of the school. High school in Mexico does not involve goofing off and misbehavior...that kind of thing is simply not tolerated and kids who even think about it are out. It is dead serious with lots of hard work. most kids who graduate from high school here are at least at the level of kids who have finished at least one year of college in the U.S. I have a wonderful young friend who is not quite 18 and is in his last year of prepatoria...high school. he works very hard...he needs to be sure he can qualify to enter university next fall... and that is totally dependent on his performance this year. If you decide to attend university later, in mexico, then you will need to apply for a student visa through the local INM ( immigration ) office.
2 :
i agree with what the other person said. especially about the standards, theres no advance classes, honors etc etc, eveyone get on the same program and it means that all get on the ball with calculus for example in order to graduate. i moved to do highschool in the US and can tell you i got the slack time of of my life and kept a 3.85 gpa some classes didnt get challenging until junior year, especially math and sciences. sp be ready to put some hard work and NOT get any pretty bragging name for it, you fail theres no become a junior if you didint pass all sophomore, you re-do sophomore and things like that. if you talk to the teacher disrespectfully you can be in serius trouble. one thing you may love is that many other things are very relaxed, like on breaks between clases many of my friends would just go to the bar close by the school and have a beer, (yes you can leave the school at any time pretty much and come back) smoking in open areas also if youre into that AND youll nnever experience a prom night like a mexican graduation ;-) im serius, middle school graduation parties are even better than prom in the US.
Read more other entries :
Saturday, January 14, 2012
student visa for mexico?
student visa for mexico?
i will be moveing to mexico very soon with my mom and my family iam 18 and not yet finshed high school what do i need to be able to attend a high school there?
Other - Mexico - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If you are only going to be on a tourist visa, you will need to pay tuition even if it is a public school. If you have an FM3 visa, you should not have to pay tuition in a public school. Bring copies of all your previous records. Do you speak Spanish fluently? Will you be able to keep up in a regular, Spanish-speaking school? There are some private schools in areas with lots of Americans in English...but these are few. Most high schools offer English as a class, but other classes are in Spanish. There are many private schools as well as public schools. In some places the public schools have very high standards and are excellent...depends on where you are. To enter high school, there is a very stiff qualifying test. Kids who cannot pass that test must attend a private school ( they will admit anyone with money) until they can pass that test. When you arrive in the city where you will be living...you and your parents need to talk to neighbors, employer, etc. and ask about the best school for you...then go and talk to the director of the school. High school in Mexico does not involve goofing off and misbehavior...that kind of thing is simply not tolerated and kids who even think about it are out. It is dead serious with lots of hard work. most kids who graduate from high school here are at least at the level of kids who have finished at least one year of college in the U.S. I have a wonderful young friend who is not quite 18 and is in his last year of prepatoria...high school. he works very hard...he needs to be sure he can qualify to enter university next fall... and that is totally dependent on his performance this year. If you decide to attend university later, in mexico, then you will need to apply for a student visa through the local INM ( immigration ) office.
2 :
i agree with what the other person said. especially about the standards, theres no advance classes, honors etc etc, eveyone get on the same program and it means that all get on the ball with calculus for example in order to graduate. i moved to do highschool in the US and can tell you i got the slack time of of my life and kept a 3.85 gpa some classes didnt get challenging until junior year, especially math and sciences. sp be ready to put some hard work and NOT get any pretty bragging name for it, you fail theres no become a junior if you didint pass all sophomore, you re-do sophomore and things like that. if you talk to the teacher disrespectfully you can be in serius trouble. one thing you may love is that many other things are very relaxed, like on breaks between clases many of my friends would just go to the bar close by the school and have a beer, (yes you can leave the school at any time pretty much and come back) smoking in open areas also if youre into that AND youll nnever experience a prom night like a mexican graduation ;-) im serius, middle school graduation parties are even better than prom in the US.
Read more other entries :
i will be moveing to mexico very soon with my mom and my family iam 18 and not yet finshed high school what do i need to be able to attend a high school there?
Other - Mexico - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If you are only going to be on a tourist visa, you will need to pay tuition even if it is a public school. If you have an FM3 visa, you should not have to pay tuition in a public school. Bring copies of all your previous records. Do you speak Spanish fluently? Will you be able to keep up in a regular, Spanish-speaking school? There are some private schools in areas with lots of Americans in English...but these are few. Most high schools offer English as a class, but other classes are in Spanish. There are many private schools as well as public schools. In some places the public schools have very high standards and are excellent...depends on where you are. To enter high school, there is a very stiff qualifying test. Kids who cannot pass that test must attend a private school ( they will admit anyone with money) until they can pass that test. When you arrive in the city where you will be living...you and your parents need to talk to neighbors, employer, etc. and ask about the best school for you...then go and talk to the director of the school. High school in Mexico does not involve goofing off and misbehavior...that kind of thing is simply not tolerated and kids who even think about it are out. It is dead serious with lots of hard work. most kids who graduate from high school here are at least at the level of kids who have finished at least one year of college in the U.S. I have a wonderful young friend who is not quite 18 and is in his last year of prepatoria...high school. he works very hard...he needs to be sure he can qualify to enter university next fall... and that is totally dependent on his performance this year. If you decide to attend university later, in mexico, then you will need to apply for a student visa through the local INM ( immigration ) office.
2 :
i agree with what the other person said. especially about the standards, theres no advance classes, honors etc etc, eveyone get on the same program and it means that all get on the ball with calculus for example in order to graduate. i moved to do highschool in the US and can tell you i got the slack time of of my life and kept a 3.85 gpa some classes didnt get challenging until junior year, especially math and sciences. sp be ready to put some hard work and NOT get any pretty bragging name for it, you fail theres no become a junior if you didint pass all sophomore, you re-do sophomore and things like that. if you talk to the teacher disrespectfully you can be in serius trouble. one thing you may love is that many other things are very relaxed, like on breaks between clases many of my friends would just go to the bar close by the school and have a beer, (yes you can leave the school at any time pretty much and come back) smoking in open areas also if youre into that AND youll nnever experience a prom night like a mexican graduation ;-) im serius, middle school graduation parties are even better than prom in the US.
Read more other entries :
Saturday, January 7, 2012
F-1 student to re-enter US through Mexico HELP!!?
F-1 student to re-enter US through Mexico HELP!!?
Hi, I'm an F-1 student, In the past month I became out-of-status, I talked to my International students adviser and she said that I have to choose one of two options: 1- file for reinstatement 2- leave and re-enter the country I think I'll choose to reenter the US but, my country is a 15-hour flight so It's really far away. I thought I can reenter through Mexico because it's closest country here, my Adviser said that It might be a risk because I would have fresh I-20 and that might and might not be a problem( because I'm not entering the US from my original country), so I didn't want to go there and be stuck away from my home. So do you guys have any ideas on what to do? thanks,
Immigration - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
go Home and stay there
2 :
Yes, go back to your own country.
3 :
Well, there are various factors, but if you had to go through a security clearance in getting your first student visa, you'll have to do it again, if you leave. So, if it took a while after your initial interview for the visa, chances are quite good that will happen again. and if you get stuck in Mexico for a while, that won't do you much good. If you didn't have any problems the first time chances are you won't the second. However, remaining in the US while in student status is pretty much risk free. Check out the visa waiting times in the visa section at travel.state.gov to see how long it will take for you to even get an interview appointment.
Read more other entries :
Hi, I'm an F-1 student, In the past month I became out-of-status, I talked to my International students adviser and she said that I have to choose one of two options: 1- file for reinstatement 2- leave and re-enter the country I think I'll choose to reenter the US but, my country is a 15-hour flight so It's really far away. I thought I can reenter through Mexico because it's closest country here, my Adviser said that It might be a risk because I would have fresh I-20 and that might and might not be a problem( because I'm not entering the US from my original country), so I didn't want to go there and be stuck away from my home. So do you guys have any ideas on what to do? thanks,
Immigration - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
go Home and stay there
2 :
Yes, go back to your own country.
3 :
Well, there are various factors, but if you had to go through a security clearance in getting your first student visa, you'll have to do it again, if you leave. So, if it took a while after your initial interview for the visa, chances are quite good that will happen again. and if you get stuck in Mexico for a while, that won't do you much good. If you didn't have any problems the first time chances are you won't the second. However, remaining in the US while in student status is pretty much risk free. Check out the visa waiting times in the visa section at travel.state.gov to see how long it will take for you to even get an interview appointment.
Read more other entries :
Sunday, January 1, 2012
How do college students dress in Mexico?
How do college students dress in Mexico?
I will be going to Monterrey, Mexico next month, to present a talk at a conference. I want to be well dressed for them. How do college girls and teachers dress?
Other - Mexico - 5 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
they dress like we do....is that a cheap shot at mexicans? If not your not going to Iraq or someplace like that come on its not that different.
2 :
im mexican, u dress the same as you do here
3 :
Depending on the kind of school... Private schools have people dressed with designer cloths... Public schools may have people dressed like hippies
4 :
Being a US citizen living in a northern Mexican city, I have found that most women most often are better dressed for events than in the US. For instance, when I attend social events or other gatherings, people dress very neatly, with appropriate jewelry and heels. Dress slacks are often worn, or VERY nicely tailored jeans. Hair and makeup are nicely done. For me, I notice that people of all economic levels seem to put in more effort into dressing neatly and tastefully with whatever clothing and accessories they have. A nicely tailored suit will be fine as well. That said, I do know that the college students themselves seem more like college students everywhere -- you will see many nicely groomed, but then some in slouchy jeans and "futbol" shirts!
5 :
im mexican and i think u should dress as any professor do....the ones that attend job after teaching dress in suit and the ones that work in investigation or at college dress in cassual trousers (dockers) and shirt.....guess this would b the best option 4 u ....good luck in ur conference
Read more other entries :
I will be going to Monterrey, Mexico next month, to present a talk at a conference. I want to be well dressed for them. How do college girls and teachers dress?
Other - Mexico - 5 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
they dress like we do....is that a cheap shot at mexicans? If not your not going to Iraq or someplace like that come on its not that different.
2 :
im mexican, u dress the same as you do here
3 :
Depending on the kind of school... Private schools have people dressed with designer cloths... Public schools may have people dressed like hippies
4 :
Being a US citizen living in a northern Mexican city, I have found that most women most often are better dressed for events than in the US. For instance, when I attend social events or other gatherings, people dress very neatly, with appropriate jewelry and heels. Dress slacks are often worn, or VERY nicely tailored jeans. Hair and makeup are nicely done. For me, I notice that people of all economic levels seem to put in more effort into dressing neatly and tastefully with whatever clothing and accessories they have. A nicely tailored suit will be fine as well. That said, I do know that the college students themselves seem more like college students everywhere -- you will see many nicely groomed, but then some in slouchy jeans and "futbol" shirts!
5 :
im mexican and i think u should dress as any professor do....the ones that attend job after teaching dress in suit and the ones that work in investigation or at college dress in cassual trousers (dockers) and shirt.....guess this would b the best option 4 u ....good luck in ur conference
Read more other entries :
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Do you have any tips for traveling to Mexico?
Do you have any tips for traveling to Mexico?
I am going to Mexico for an exchange student program and need some tips on how to stay safe. i am going to the rich Mexico City area. Can you please give me some tips if you have been to Mexico or know someone that has?!
Mexico City - 14 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Don't drink the water remember ice is frozen water don't travel alone.El Presidente Brandy is some good stuff also you can get Cuban cigars.
2 :
Dont drink the water or anything with ice cubes or anything washed & not cooked (like salad) or anything sold off the street. I've never gone there without getting sick.
3 :
Well they don't put tissue paper in the toilet and the water is unsafe the streets have gangs they hate Americans the police are as likely to rob you as the citizens and they let flies land on your food because they don't enforce health laws. Good Luck
4 :
Don't drink the water unless it's bottled. Keep your hands in your pockets. Look forward, backward, left and right all the time. If you fail to do this you'll be mugged in no time.
5 :
Always have someone with you, make sure you know the current exchange from dollars to pesos, (probably around 10 pesos for every 1 dollar) so you know exactly what your paying and what you should be getting back and don't do anything you wouldn't do at home. Oher than that, enjoy it.
6 :
Don't drink the water. don't leave the tourist areas... better yet don't Go there... I have been there it sucks.
7 :
omg these people are exaggerating if you go to the rich part of mexico city you'll be fine. Don't drink the water from the faucet. when you go out to the city avoid the metro, put your money in ur socks and put your wallet in your front pocket. Don't worry mexico has its beautiful parts just like the U.S. once you get there you'll see. Enjoy.Take the precautions you would take when traveling in a place you wouldn't go in your hometown...itslike everywhere.
8 :
The first thing is the taxis, don't take the old green vw bug taxis, unless they have the license plate number that starts either with an S for sitio or L for libre, and it has to have the number written on th roof as well, if they don't have any of this, its probably a fake taxi, and will likely rob you, may be on the taxi meter or the kidnap express, they take you to atms and max out credit cards. just don't take those, take the new taxis, a few more pesos. 1 dollar is equal to 11 pesos right now so you get a little more for your dollars but less when you want to change it back to pesos. be sure exactly where you are going so you don't get lost when taking public transportation, there's metro stations all around and have maps just know where you get off at. watch out for pickpockets, don't look like a tourist those are the ones they look for. i don't know where you are staying but tourist areas are somewhat safe, don't look afraid, watch out for traffic, there tends to be a lot of accidents that way. not trying to scare you but mexico city is a tough city but there's always good fun, polanco is a good shopping place, the cuauhtemoc borough is always a good tourist area , lots of history and places to work at. people will offer you to buy stuff, simple no will do and walk away, don't listen to the other guy to keep hands in pockets, sign of insecurity, other than that have fun, you're so lucky, wish i could go back
9 :
in mexico city. NEVER EVER take the subway, NEVER hail a cab (always call for one and get the cab number.) especially if you are in a "rich" area...don't LOOK rich. no name brand of faux brand purses, clothing, or sunglasses. being in a rich area isn't going to keep you safe...if anything, it will put you in more danger for serious crimes...probably help you in cases of petty theft though.
10 :
Wow! ok, don't drink the water from the faucet, but any bottled water you can drink, and it tastes much better than faucet water from the US, water should have not flavor, right? beleive me it does taste better here. If you are in a well stablished restaurant, you can tell, it's easy, don't worry about the ice it will be clean, also vegetables and fruits will be clean, washing them is not enough but in 15 min they are clean with a special disinfectant. I guess you are staying with a family? they will take care of you, we are very carying and loving, they won't leave you on your own. When going out, try to blend in, don't look like a tourist with shorts, a cap and a camera, ok? dress according to the situation. Try to look cool, and safe. Keep your money in the front pocket and stick your hand inside the pocket while walking on the street. You'll be fine and safe. Welcome.
11 :
I always check the Dept. of State web site before traveling to ANY foreign country. http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_970.html
12 :
Do your research, join woyn.com and speak to others who have done it, save enough money to survive, always have a calling card or cell phone with you and be a smart traveler. =)
13 :
wow people exaggerate a bit tooo much! mexico city is not that bad (well maybe for a first time visitor it is..but you'll get used to it after a few weeks there) drink bottled water, never take the metro (it will give you a huge headache), if you drive while you are there then you need to be very very aggressive ( never let anyone in to your lane because then 30 cars will go in and all the people behind you will get mad), if you are walking then remember cars are not going to stop for you, the best food is usually from those carts on the street..but if you are not use to this kind of food be aware that you can get sick, go to bullgog cafe..they have amazing concerts there, make some local friends (you'll enjoy mexico city a lot more this way), try not to look like a tourist (blend in as much as you can), dont carry too much cash with you, keep your wallet in your front pocket, visit all the museums and go to events...just enjoy your time there!
14 :
All these tips are very helpful, and yes, many "parts" of Mexico City are pretty bad. Just be cautious, not paranoid, at all times and you should be ok. People like myself, who have family there, are usually safe and ok because they know where NOT to take us, and if they do, they're sure to have us out before it's dark and/or late. Don't be rude or uncorteous to people, but don't think you can trust them; alot of people are out there to make a dime, either the easy or the hard way (hard way meaning by way of force!). And I'm sorry to say that there's not more positive advise, but it's because there is so much corruption there; survival of the fittest, trust no one! =O)
15 :
Hi there, yes Mexico city can be dangerous and in the area you will be staying it can be safe. Please do not bring jewels or expensive things or clothes (branded) unless you use them at your school (no rings, no chains,.. ipods, cameras and cel phones take them under the clothes, portable video games better do not play them in public transportation or street, use your lap on school, museums, cafes or home). Avoid showing your money or you wallet or leaving your bags opened or unatended. Carry them infront of you. Don't drink faucet water or unpacked food at street, wash fruits. Use station taxis that can be called from phone. The green and red ones are dangerous. Carry the embassy phones and all written phones and your blood type in your wallet in case you have an accident. Don't go to discos alone. Change your money at the airport and use traveler checks (no one knows how to use them... only banks.) If you use the metro and it is crowded carry all your stuff at front and hide your wallet. Better if you travel with friends. Most of us are "morenos" and you will probably pop out from the crowd and oftenly people stare so don't get angry ignore them. We are friendly so please do not panic but do not relax or distract because that is the time robbers catch you, we are honest but by minority we have stupid thieves and a stupid police. If you want help on Mexico city I live and work area in the south (by the Universidad street), If you want I can send you my phone if you have troubles or questions here. Return to home before 8:00 p.m.
Read more other entries :
I am going to Mexico for an exchange student program and need some tips on how to stay safe. i am going to the rich Mexico City area. Can you please give me some tips if you have been to Mexico or know someone that has?!
Mexico City - 14 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Don't drink the water remember ice is frozen water don't travel alone.El Presidente Brandy is some good stuff also you can get Cuban cigars.
2 :
Dont drink the water or anything with ice cubes or anything washed & not cooked (like salad) or anything sold off the street. I've never gone there without getting sick.
3 :
Well they don't put tissue paper in the toilet and the water is unsafe the streets have gangs they hate Americans the police are as likely to rob you as the citizens and they let flies land on your food because they don't enforce health laws. Good Luck
4 :
Don't drink the water unless it's bottled. Keep your hands in your pockets. Look forward, backward, left and right all the time. If you fail to do this you'll be mugged in no time.
5 :
Always have someone with you, make sure you know the current exchange from dollars to pesos, (probably around 10 pesos for every 1 dollar) so you know exactly what your paying and what you should be getting back and don't do anything you wouldn't do at home. Oher than that, enjoy it.
6 :
Don't drink the water. don't leave the tourist areas... better yet don't Go there... I have been there it sucks.
7 :
omg these people are exaggerating if you go to the rich part of mexico city you'll be fine. Don't drink the water from the faucet. when you go out to the city avoid the metro, put your money in ur socks and put your wallet in your front pocket. Don't worry mexico has its beautiful parts just like the U.S. once you get there you'll see. Enjoy.Take the precautions you would take when traveling in a place you wouldn't go in your hometown...itslike everywhere.
8 :
The first thing is the taxis, don't take the old green vw bug taxis, unless they have the license plate number that starts either with an S for sitio or L for libre, and it has to have the number written on th roof as well, if they don't have any of this, its probably a fake taxi, and will likely rob you, may be on the taxi meter or the kidnap express, they take you to atms and max out credit cards. just don't take those, take the new taxis, a few more pesos. 1 dollar is equal to 11 pesos right now so you get a little more for your dollars but less when you want to change it back to pesos. be sure exactly where you are going so you don't get lost when taking public transportation, there's metro stations all around and have maps just know where you get off at. watch out for pickpockets, don't look like a tourist those are the ones they look for. i don't know where you are staying but tourist areas are somewhat safe, don't look afraid, watch out for traffic, there tends to be a lot of accidents that way. not trying to scare you but mexico city is a tough city but there's always good fun, polanco is a good shopping place, the cuauhtemoc borough is always a good tourist area , lots of history and places to work at. people will offer you to buy stuff, simple no will do and walk away, don't listen to the other guy to keep hands in pockets, sign of insecurity, other than that have fun, you're so lucky, wish i could go back
9 :
in mexico city. NEVER EVER take the subway, NEVER hail a cab (always call for one and get the cab number.) especially if you are in a "rich" area...don't LOOK rich. no name brand of faux brand purses, clothing, or sunglasses. being in a rich area isn't going to keep you safe...if anything, it will put you in more danger for serious crimes...probably help you in cases of petty theft though.
10 :
Wow! ok, don't drink the water from the faucet, but any bottled water you can drink, and it tastes much better than faucet water from the US, water should have not flavor, right? beleive me it does taste better here. If you are in a well stablished restaurant, you can tell, it's easy, don't worry about the ice it will be clean, also vegetables and fruits will be clean, washing them is not enough but in 15 min they are clean with a special disinfectant. I guess you are staying with a family? they will take care of you, we are very carying and loving, they won't leave you on your own. When going out, try to blend in, don't look like a tourist with shorts, a cap and a camera, ok? dress according to the situation. Try to look cool, and safe. Keep your money in the front pocket and stick your hand inside the pocket while walking on the street. You'll be fine and safe. Welcome.
11 :
I always check the Dept. of State web site before traveling to ANY foreign country. http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_970.html
12 :
Do your research, join woyn.com and speak to others who have done it, save enough money to survive, always have a calling card or cell phone with you and be a smart traveler. =)
13 :
wow people exaggerate a bit tooo much! mexico city is not that bad (well maybe for a first time visitor it is..but you'll get used to it after a few weeks there) drink bottled water, never take the metro (it will give you a huge headache), if you drive while you are there then you need to be very very aggressive ( never let anyone in to your lane because then 30 cars will go in and all the people behind you will get mad), if you are walking then remember cars are not going to stop for you, the best food is usually from those carts on the street..but if you are not use to this kind of food be aware that you can get sick, go to bullgog cafe..they have amazing concerts there, make some local friends (you'll enjoy mexico city a lot more this way), try not to look like a tourist (blend in as much as you can), dont carry too much cash with you, keep your wallet in your front pocket, visit all the museums and go to events...just enjoy your time there!
14 :
All these tips are very helpful, and yes, many "parts" of Mexico City are pretty bad. Just be cautious, not paranoid, at all times and you should be ok. People like myself, who have family there, are usually safe and ok because they know where NOT to take us, and if they do, they're sure to have us out before it's dark and/or late. Don't be rude or uncorteous to people, but don't think you can trust them; alot of people are out there to make a dime, either the easy or the hard way (hard way meaning by way of force!). And I'm sorry to say that there's not more positive advise, but it's because there is so much corruption there; survival of the fittest, trust no one! =O)
15 :
Hi there, yes Mexico city can be dangerous and in the area you will be staying it can be safe. Please do not bring jewels or expensive things or clothes (branded) unless you use them at your school (no rings, no chains,.. ipods, cameras and cel phones take them under the clothes, portable video games better do not play them in public transportation or street, use your lap on school, museums, cafes or home). Avoid showing your money or you wallet or leaving your bags opened or unatended. Carry them infront of you. Don't drink faucet water or unpacked food at street, wash fruits. Use station taxis that can be called from phone. The green and red ones are dangerous. Carry the embassy phones and all written phones and your blood type in your wallet in case you have an accident. Don't go to discos alone. Change your money at the airport and use traveler checks (no one knows how to use them... only banks.) If you use the metro and it is crowded carry all your stuff at front and hide your wallet. Better if you travel with friends. Most of us are "morenos" and you will probably pop out from the crowd and oftenly people stare so don't get angry ignore them. We are friendly so please do not panic but do not relax or distract because that is the time robbers catch you, we are honest but by minority we have stupid thieves and a stupid police. If you want help on Mexico city I live and work area in the south (by the Universidad street), If you want I can send you my phone if you have troubles or questions here. Return to home before 8:00 p.m.
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