I’d say that Iguana Abroad’s magic lies in how the course seamlessly blends language and life. Yes, the Spanish classes are excellent (small groups, passionate native teachers, a truly stunning school campus), but for me the real lessons happened outside: discussing Mexican history beside ancient Aztec ruins, cooking mole poblano with "abuelitas" (at my homestay), or haggling for the best prices in the local markets. As well as just the classroom textbooks and whiteboards, you’ll use street art, local slang, and laughter to learn—and it sticks. I’ve got so, so many great memories from this trip, and so many new friends that I share them with.
Everyone on my course (Summer ’24) said the same thing - the instructors (affectionately called “the Harrys”,) are the heart of the program, and I couldn’t agree more. I felt like they really mapped my journey personally so even on a group course, things felt tailored just for me and my goals. They even included activities completely outside of the course schedule just because of a few passions of mine I had spoken about, such as jazz music. We went to a local jazz club to see an open event there and talked about music with some of the people playing there - which was one of the best moments of the whole trip for me. Moments like this played such a huge part of improving my confidence and fluency with Spanish. Another day we visited the hidden, beautiful San Anton waterfall in Cuernavaca to help me nail some key words and phrases for hiking and exercise - another deep passion of mine, (and a few others in the group). Nothing ever felt scripted - the Harry’s felt like true masters of language immersion courses.
I’ve done language programs before, but none ever pushed me to engage so deeply. By week two, I was joking with my homestay family, navigating local transport solo, and (mostly) holding my own in everyday conversations. The confidence boost was unreal, not just for language, but travel too. Plus, the friendships—with locals and fellow learners, students on the course, etc —are the kind that long outlast Instagram posts.
Considerations to Know:
* Pace: Days can be packed! If you crave downtime and rest, don’t feel afraid to do that. It’s a really flexible course - and that’s sort of what this course is about - you, and your Spanish learning journey.
* Physicality: Some adventures (like ruins hikes) require moderate fitness. Hiking up to the Tepotzlán pyramid from the "zocalo" town center (which is optional) was a real mission.
* Homestays: My family was wonderful, but flexibility is key—the every so often cold showers and salsa-dancing toddlers come with the territory! If you want something more predictable you’d probably be better with the private accommodation option.
What I’d say is that Iguana Abroad isn’t for casual tourists—it’s for adventurers who learn by living. Yes, classrooms are a big part of the program, but they’re just the starting point. If you’re ready to move beyond textbooks and let the rhythm of Mexico guide your learning, this is the course for you… just make sure you bring an open mind and you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone—at least for me, that’s when the real learning happened.
