Learning Spanish Abroad

Mexico welcomes you to experience a fascinating cultural blend that is the result of centuries of the coexistence of native indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial influence. Along this rich mix, the country displays great contrasts that allows you to enjoy hand the most modern cities and small charming communities that seem trapped in time.

Veracruz state in the Gulf of México is often described as the land of the black gold, coffee, vanilla, and lush vegetation. It offers a wide variation of climates that go from tropical temperatures to cold; and with landscapes that range from all year round snowy mountains to idyllic palm trees along its beaches.

The state is highly regarded as an ecotourist destination with several natural reserves including Los Tuxtlas, Sierra de Santa María, Volcán de San Martín and for adventure options such as mountain climbing, white-water rafting, sport fishing.

The film industry has also shown a passion for Veracruz with movies like Apocalypto, The Medicine Man, Romancing the Stone, Collateral Damage among others that have been filmed here.

Veracruz, a port city around two hundred and fifty miles away east of México City is both a vibrant modern city and a charming place of character that offers an attractive insight to Mexican life. As a tourist, you will enjoy a superb combination of inviting marimba music, displays of colour and sense of tranquility that invites you to sit and truly enjoy life together with the easy-going, friendly, and joyful jarochos (native Veracruzanos).

A composer, inspired by the beauty of the city, once wrote:

“…A little corner where the sea waves make their nests...”

- rinconcito donde hacen sus nidos las olas del mar…-

  Veracruz song by Agustín Lara

When the Spaniards arrived in México in the sixteenth century, they named the first settlement Villa Rica de la Vera Cruz (Rich Town of the True Cross). This name was later to be shortened to Veracruz.

Nowadays, you can still visit the fort of San Juan de Ulúa built by the Spanish to protect against pirates; other highlights in Veracruz are Plaza de Armas where you can also enjoy the Cathedral, the Palacio Municipal (city hall), Los Portales; the Paseo del Malecón and the Faro. There are also a good number of restaurants to taste the excellent Veracruz’ seafood cuisine and for a great coffee you must visit the Café de la Parroquia.