Chalchihuites Fun

Excursions

Fenix Language Institute provides supplementary tours for its Language and Culture Program. These are culturally educational as well as recreational. The student has the opportunity to increase his or her knowledge of Mexico in a fun way, but with learning as the principal objective, Fenix tours are led by a guide, with an orientation over the trip beforehand.

On site history classes

In accordance with its teaching system, FLI has designed classes on history and culture to be held in the locations where the events occurred. As often as once or twice weekly we visit former haciendas, historic buildings, the nearby archaeological site, mines, or other places of interest to study some of the most famous aspects of Mexican history in the setting where they occurred.

Holy week in the rural program

In March or April the passion of Christ is re-enacted in Chalchihuites by local actors. This is a family-oriented time and a vivid demonstration of the Catholic tradition which imbues Mexican society. This event, which lasts a week, fosters intense interaction between the inhabitants of Chalchihuites and visitors, Mexican and international, and is a particularly lively, intense environment for acquiring and practicing the language and gaining insight into Mexican culture. FLI offers special study packages and prices during Holy Week in Chalchihuites.

Hiking

Chalchihuites presents a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains, plateaus, and valleys of the Sierra Madre.

Mountain Bike

Mountain bikes are also available for touring the town of Chalchihuites and for exploring the surrounding area.

Swimming

Some recreational places have swimming pools. It is only necessary to pay a minimal admission fee.

Internship (trabajo voluntario)

In Chalchihuites, Fenix offers afternoon volunteer programs of two types, both integrating the student into an aspect of local daily life and providing an excellent opportunity to practice the language in a field of interest to the student.
For advanced students with prior experience and professional interest in an area, volunteer internships can be arranged in education, administration, communications, social work and similar areas.

Farm

FLI offers the opportunity to experiment with cultivating vegetables, fruit or grain on its farm, through the Chalchihuites rural program. For students interested in international agricultural research or development work, this is an excellent opportunity to learn the rural Mexican culture, which affects agricultural practice, in a hands-on way, and to practice the language in interaction with campesinos, who deal every day with the problems of making a living through small-scale agriculture.

Sports

As players or fans, students, instructors and local people can strengthen their friendships in this relaxing environment for practicing Spanish.

Camping

Weekend camping trips to scenic parks can also be arranged.

October Holidays

Every year the celebration of the anniversary of the town’s foundation (1556) takes place. There are many different cultural and social activities, like the election of a “queen” of the parties, typical regional dances, and some others.

December Holidays

During this month there are some religious celebrations, like December 12th (the annual fair of the town), and December 24th (Christmas Eve). You can enjoy these holidays in contact with the essence of the traditions of Mexico.