Mexico is the eighth largest nation in the world, and the third largest in Latin America (only Brazil and Argentina are larger). The country is surrounded by the United States to the north, Guatemala and Belize to the south, the Caribbean to the east, and the Pacific to the west. Mexico is a beautiful country made up of diverse climates and terrain. To the north, lie the great Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts. Running through the center of Mexico rise the majestic mountains that make up the Sierra Madres. Lying between the two cordilleras of the Sierra Madres is the vast area commonly referred to as the Altiplano. "The Altiplano covers roughly 40% of Mexico's land surface; after Tibet and Bolivia it's the third highest inhabited plateau in the world." Source: Mexico Handbook by Joe Cummings and Chicki Mallan. Finally, in the southeastern part of Mexico, you will find the lush and steamy tropical forests and savannahs of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Mexico is truly one of the most interesting places in Latin America to visit. The land is beautiful, the culture is fascinating, and its history is impressive. The historical and cultural center of the country is the capital, Mexico City. The city in terms of size alone is incredible. With well over 20 million inhabitants, it is the second largest city in the world. Throughout Mexico City you will find Aztec pyramids, colonial buildings, excellent museums, art, modern high-rises, international business, high fashion, world class restaurants, and much more. This city has something to offer for everyone. If you are short on time, you should start your tour of Mexico City and its surrounding areas by visiting the National Museum of Anthropology, the Zocalo, and the pyramids at Teotihuacan (one of the most important archaeological sites in Mesoamerica).

From a cultural perspective, Mexico is extremely diverse. Each part of Mexico has a distinctive flavor which is a reflection of the indigenous cultures of the area and of Spanish influence. As you travel through this country you will experience different styles of clothing, food, customs, etc. You will also notice that each region of Mexico is typically known for producing certain goods. For instance, right outside of Oaxaca City is a little village named Teotitlan which is world renowned for the quality of the rugs (Zapotec) produced there.

If the cultural experience is one of the reasons why you are thinking about studying in Mexico, you will not be disappointed!

Historically speaking, Mexico is a great place to visit. Throughout the country, travelers can visit ruins and/or museums and see the legacy of distinct groups such as the Olmecs, Toltecs, Maya, and of course the Aztecs. Some of the more popular sites to visit are Teotihuacan, Monte Alban, Palenque, and Chichen Itza. While in one sense, the ruins are similar, each is distinctive, and all are very much worth the visit. Teotihuacan is awesome due to the size of the site. The pyramids found here are some of the tallest in the world. The view from the Pyramid of the Moon looking down the Avenue of the Dead is particularly worthwhile. To the other extreme, the Mayan ruins located in the forbidding jungles in southern Mexico are fascinating. The combination of ruins located in the midst of the flora and fauna of the tropical forest is nothing short of spectacular.

Interested in the conquistador Hernan Cortez and the impact of the Spanish Conquest? In just about every corner of Mexico you will have the opportunity to visit exquisitely decorated colonial churches, beautiful colonial buildings, and admire the daily life of today that swirls around the old central plazas (zocalos) of each town.

Finally, no matter where you travel in Mexico, the terrain and climate is different. In the central valleys rise immense volcanoes which hiking enthusiasts regularly climb. In the Baja, the fishing is excellent, and the land is mountainous and rugged. To the south, travelers can sit and relax in the sun on tropical beaches in sleepy little places like Puerto Escondido. For those who wish to see a tropical forest firsthand, the Yucatan will be an unforgettable experience.

Without a doubt, studying Spanish in Mexico will be a memorable experience!

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