Mexico is in North America, bordered by the United States, Guatemala and Belize, as well as the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Mexico was colonised by the Spanish, who left behind colonial mansions in the highlands and the pretty streets of Guanajuato – and of course, the language.
Mexico is in North America, bordered by the United States, Guatemala and Belize, as well as the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Mexico was colonised by the Spanish, who left behind colonial mansions in the highlands and the pretty streets of Guanajuato – and of course, the language. The turbulent post-independence period was characterised by economic instability and political change, but now Mexico is considered a regional power, and by 2050 could become the world’s sixth-largest economy. The country also ranks in the world’s top six for the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Before the Spanish, it was home to several ancient cultures, including the Aztecs, whose spectacular pyramids you can still climb today.
Mexico also boasts a spectacular 6,000-mile-long coastline – including the famous cliff-diving resort of Acapulco. But there are also countless other calmer sandy beaches, along with Caribbean reefs and wildlife-rich lagoons. Inland there are cactus-strewn deserts, steaming jungles and smoking, snow-capped volcanoes.
In the towns, busy market comedors (street food stalls) sell extremely tasty food – sometimes chilli-hot! Markets are also a good place to find colourful local art and handicrafts. The capital, the enormous Mexico City, is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage City. It has a historic centre, great museums, ancient canals and even Aztec pyramids. In recent years the city’s become safer and cleaner, but it’s still true to say that organised chaos rules. Mexicans don’t have much respect for timetables, but they’re always extremely welcoming to visitors.
Mexico represents one of the largest ESL markets in the world, and English teachers can expect to find jobs at any time of the year. EFL job offers are typically made only after one-to-one interviews. Teachers are normally responsible for their own airfare and housing costs. Most find flats or rooms which were previously occupied by other TEFL teachers, and many share accommodation with co-workers. Salaries are reasonable and should provide ESL teachers in Mexico with a fairly comfortable lifestyle. Schools usually provide about 20–25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore this fascinating country. Most EFL jobs are found in the larger cities of Mexico City, Guadalajara, Puebla, Juarez and León.
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