A coastal exploration

Today's outing had us journeying north of the city and along the coastline. We learned about the importance of mangroves, the Mayans that controlled coastal trading and the astounding community effort in one pueblo that is proving to be socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.

Our first stop was to spend a quiet minute observing our new environment

And then we headed to the Mayan ruins of Xcambo

On this site the Virgen May appeared and a chapel was built in her honor.

Maria tells us about the ancient techniques of separating salt from ocean water and storing it in large quantities to trade

Observing the details

View from the top

Our next stop was in the coastal town of San Crisanto, renowned for their coconut products and their commitment to sustainability. We headed out with trash bags to clean up litter among the mangroves while our guide told us a little bit about the community.

"Protect the flora and fauna"

Ancient stone walls created lagoons to trap ocean water for the salt harvest

We marveled at the red tint of the water among the mangroves, colored so because of the tannins released by the roots

Our guide describes the different varieties of mangroves found here

"Care for and protect the ecosystem"

A glimpse of pink...flamingos!

Last but not least we had a boat tour of the mangroves, eyes peeled for termite nests, frogs, small mammals and fish

Feeling some fish-kisses from the little aquatic animals in the cenote

Small Town Days: Our time in Yaxunah

Before we began our time in the rural community of Yaxunah, we passed through the small city of Acanceh, where we were able to tour through the market and visit the prehispanic structures that make up the ancient Mayan settlement that today is fused with the architecture and modernity of the town. These ancient structures tell their story through the exposed stones and glimpses of preserved stucco. The pyramid of the masks holds eight stuccoed masks, two on each side of the structure, each one with characteristics associated with the sun god Kinich Ahau. A few blocks away, past the large catholic church and down a side street, surrounded by family homes, the Palace of Stuccos has a frisee that adorns the north face of the building with zoomorphic beings. Just like in the city, the best part of the program is when the students get to meet their new host families. The family is the main pillar of support for the student’s immersion into any context, but it is especially important in smal

The Grand Adventure: Orientation Trip

Our orientation trip began in the southern part of the state of Yucatan, in the community of San Mateo, where we were able to explore the natural resources of the area and learn about a few of the most important trees in the Mayan culture. We also admired historic buildings in the middle of the jungle that are evidence of military bases that were established along the ancient roads of Yucatan after the Caste War. One of the most fascinating experiences we had was entering into what the ancient Mayans knew as the inframundo , or the underworld. We rappelled down into the cenote of San Mateo, breaking the silence within and sending hundreds of bats circling around the high vaulted ceiling of this massive natural well. It is a unique experience that very few people are lucky enough to see. The next part of our trip took place in the state of Quintana Roo, where we were awed by the beauty and culture of the region. We enjoyed our stay at the lakeside cabañas Síijil Noh Há. The food was g

Merida: Our Days in the City

The first part of the student’s time in Merida, meeting and integrating into their host families, is probably the most important step in beginning an immersion program. In our case, here in Merida, host families are fundamental for the students to adapt to their new urban context. Another important aspect of their time in Merida are their Spanish classes, since the language will allow them to interact and immerse themselves more completely in the culture. During these language classes, the students not only learn grammar and structure, but they are also able to develop their own linguistic abilities by sharing, discussing and practicing the everyday vocabulary and expressions that they hear outside of the classroom. Mayan culture classes are another key part of the program, they help the students understand diverse aspects of the culture, how a Yucatecan family lives, the differences between interacting in an urban or a rural setting, and provide the hidden historical context for wha

Adventures in Yucatan, Mexico

Search This Blog