Faculty and Setting-American Bilingual Academy-Spanish Branch of Interamerican

Our classes are small to meet the special demands of students travelling abroad. Our staff consists of 24 highly qualified native instructors. Courses commence each Monday. Our schedule is flexible. You may choose morning, afternoon or evening sessions. Our Spanish teachers are highly qualified instructors, certified by the Mexican Secretary of Education. Most are actually Spanish teachers by profession, who give classes at local High Schools or Universities.

Cultural Setting

Veracruz, the first Spanish settlement in México, is a tropical seaport on the southeastern Gulf coast. Founded by the Spanish "Conquistadores" in the 16th Century, this quaint area is known as much for its 'colonial charm as for its' fabulous virgin beaches. Recreational activities include swimming, boating, sailing, water skiing, fishing, scuba diving, snorkling and more. Many visit Veracruz and "La Antigua" for their historic and cultural significance and as a jump site for archeological expeditions. "La Antigua", sanctuary for the first Christian church in the New World, is a nearby village where Cortéz headquartered his troops at the onset of the conquest. One can visit the remains of the original house of Cortéz. Veracruz, since 1512, has served as the first American and principal Mexican port city-the entry site for civilized American culture. One may seize the the opportunity to visit Lake Catemaco, the enchanting and mysterious home of exotic witch doctors who perform ancient magic rituals. This jungle paradise, 3 hours from Veracruz, boasts the richest assortment of plant and animal life in México. One can visit the actual filming location of Sean Connery's "Medicine Man", and admire a breathtaking waterfall.

Picturesque Veracruz presents an interesting contrast of old world traditions and modern attitudes, best reflected by an altogether agreeable approach to life amid 20th century conveniences. The architecture, dating 400 years, successfully competes with contemporary styled structures, while colorful open-air markets attract many shoppers and browsers as do modern supermarkets in newly constructed shopping malls.

On a weekend stroll, you're likely to experience...

1. European-style houses with sidewalk tables
2. Cafés that specialize in fresh seafood
3. Basking in the sun on palmy beaches
4. Fascinating sights along the boardwalk overlooking the international shipping harbor
5. Modern discos
6. The largest Aquarium in Latin America
7. San Juan de Ulúa Fortress-a real castle with a dungeon
8. Remarkable bargains with handicraft vendors in the town square
9. Street musicians who fill the air with tropical and marimba rhythms(the marimba is a huge wooden xylophone)
10. The warm hospitality which is characteristic of Veracruzanos, renowned worldwide for their friendly nature
11. All combined to evoke special memories for those who visit and re-visit Veracruz.

ALL LEVELS Length of stay, level of instruction, courses and excursions are arranged to meet individual needs.

Díaz Mirón No. 50
C.P. 91700
Veracruz, Veracruz,
México
Tel 32-99-49
Fax 32-99-16