Photo of the Week: A Glimpse into Tepoztlán
This week’s photo captures a moment of quiet reflection during one of our student excursions. It’s an image of our students, framed by the beautiful archway of the Ex-Convent of the Natividad in Tepoztlán, Morelos. They are gazing out at the legendary mountains of El Tepozteco, a place of ancient wisdom and breathtaking natural beauty.
This single image tells a story that is at the heart of the Ideal Spanish Mexico experience. It’s about more than just learning Spanish; it’s about seeing the world from a new perspective.
Learning a language is like opening a new window to the world. It allows you to connect with people, understand different cultures, and discover stories you never knew existed. When our students look out at the Tepoztlán mountains, they are not just seeing a beautiful landscape. They are seeing the history of the region, the spiritual significance of the pyramid, and the living culture of the town.
Ready to start your journey? Learn more about our Spanish courses in Cuernavaca and Oaxaca and begin your adventure today!
Xochicalco: A Picture-Perfect Day at the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl
This second week’s photo takes us to Xochicalco, an ancient archaeological site just outside of Cuernavaca. While our students are busy learning Spanish, we love to take them on trips to explore the incredible history and natural beauty that surrounds us. This particular photo was taken yesterday, during a visit with our German volunteers.
After a refreshing afternoon rain shower, we were treated to a truly spectacular sight. The air was cool and crisp, the sky a vibrant, brilliant blue dotted with dramatic white clouds. The rain had intensified the colors of the landscape, making the grass on the ancient hills glow with an almost impossibly bright green.
At the center of it all stands the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent. The intricate carvings on its sides tell stories of celestial events and ancient rituals. Under the clear sky, every detail of the stonework seemed to stand out. It was a perfect moment, a reminder of the magic that happens when history, nature, and a bit of good luck come together.
Join us on our next adventure and see for yourself why learning Spanish in Mexico is about so much more than just grammar and vocabulary. It’s about experiencing moments like this one.
Catrinas and Calacas: Day of the Dead Is Coming!
The air is getting a little crisper, the marigolds are in full bloom, and the streets of Cuernavaca and Oaxaca are beginning to fill with vibrant colors and joyful anticipation. That’s right, Día de los Muertos is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to share this beautiful tradition with all of you.
This week’s photo of the week perfectly captures the spirit of the season. It features a stunning Catrina gracing a quiet Cuernavaca street, looking elegant and serene. The Catrina, an iconic symbol of the Day of the Dead, reminds us that death is not something to be feared, but a natural and beautiful part of the cycle of life.
What is Día de los Muertos?
Unlike Halloween, Día de los Muertos isn’t a spooky holiday. It’s a heartfelt celebration where families welcome the souls of their departed loved ones back for a visit. It’s a time of honoring and remembrance, filled with music, special foods, and beautiful altars (ofrendas) decorated with photos, candles, and the favorite things of those who have passed on.
From the intricate sugar skulls (calaveras de azúcar) to the dazzling displays of cempasúchil (marigolds), every detail has a meaning. The streets and homes of Mexico come alive, filled with an energy that is both festive and deeply spiritual.
Join Us to Experience This Magical Tradition
At Ideal Spanish Mexico, we believe that understanding a culture is just as important as learning its language. We invite you to come to Cuernavaca or Oaxaca and immerse yourself in this incredible tradition.Imagine wandering through the decorated streets, tasting traditional pan de muerto, or watching a vibrant parade. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever and give you a deeper appreciation for the heart of Mexico.
So, pack your bags and get ready. The spirits are almost here, and the celebration is about to begin. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Taxco’s Dramatic Beauty
This week we’re featuring a truly spectacular shot of Taxco, taken from the viewpoint at the Church of Guadalupe. The panoramic view shows the famous Santa Prisca Church in the distance, its beautiful architecture set against a dramatic sky filled with dark, moody clouds.
Taxco is one of the most popular day trips for our students, and it’s easy to see why. The streets, the silver shops, the views… it’s a truly unforgettable experience.
A Glimpse into Tlacolula’s Sunday Market
Welcome to our new weekly feature, Photo of the Week! Each week, we’ll be sharing an image that captures a special moment from one of our adventures here in Mexico.
This week’s photo takes us to the vibrant heart of Oaxaca—the Tlacolula Sunday Market. Held every week in this charming town just outside Oaxaca City, the market is a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors. It’s a place where tradition comes alive and the energy is absolutely infectious.
In the foreground of our photo, you can see three women deep in an animated conversation. Their lively chat perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the market—it’s more than just a place to shop. It’s a social hub, a community gathering, and a place to catch up on the week’s news.
Why We Love the Tlacolula Market
What makes this market so special? For one, it’s a feast for the senses. The stalls are piled high with an incredible variety of products, from fresh, colorful produce you’ve never seen before to artisan crafts and delicious, ready-to-eat street food. You can wander for hours, discovering everything from traditional Oaxaca textiles to sizzling tlayudas and roasted grasshoppers.
The market is also one of the oldest and most authentic in Oaxaca. It’s where people from surrounding villages come to sell their goods and where you can witness ancient traditions still thriving. If you’re looking for a genuine slice of Mexican culture, this is it.
Our students at Ideal Spanish Mexico often visit the Tlacolula market as part of their immersion experience. It’s the perfect place to practice your Spanish in real-life situations, bargain with vendors, and get a true taste of local life.
Stay tuned for next week’s Photo of the Week! What kind of places would you like to see featured? Let us know in the comments!
Admiring the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe on the sacred tilma, here in Mexico City.
This incredible piece of history and faith is a must-see. Explore the rich culture and traditions of Mexico!
Spirituality in Mexico is incredibly diverse, and sometimes difficult for outsiders to understand. This is a follower of La Santa Muerte in the Mexico City neighborhood of La Merced, just a block away from the Palacio Nacional, which is the seat of the Mexican government.
Mexico is a country rich with images you’ll want to cherish for a lifetime. In today’s world, we’d say it’s highly “Instagrammable.” That’s why, every Monday, we’ll feature an interesting, beautiful, or curious photo that captures this country’s vibrant color, life, culture, and surreal beauty.
