Job Discussion Forums

[ChiTown]

I was considering obtaining my TEFL certificate in Barcelona until recently finding out that a friend of mine is living happily in D.F. and would put me up for FREE if I choose to go for TEFL certification there. Problem: I'm finding that most schools in Mexico are in Guadalajara so I'm looking for advice on two fronts. One, is anyone aware of good TEFL schools in D.F. and two, does the long daily commute and potential danger of D.F. that I have read about in posts outweigh the free room and board I'd get there?? I'd appreciate any advice as I'm obviously just getting started on the TEFL path. Thanks! Heather

[thelmadatter]

From every person I ask about how safe/unsafe DF is, I get a different story. It seems that people either love it or hate it. FWIW. Im going down there myself in June to see and decide for myself.

[hagakuri]

Heather... Hi,

I dont mean to crunch your cookie, but D.F. would not be my recommendation. Especially if you are a single woman. (Yes, thats biased BUT TRUE) I spent a lot of time in D.F., and left as soon as an avenue presented itself. Many, many things are unsafe in Mexico... from taxis to shops.

There are many great places in Mexico. So do go to Mexico, but just do not live in D.F. The cons greatly outweigh the pros in my opinion.

But, if you must, go for yourself and make your own decision!

Good luck to you!

[Guy Courchesne]

There's very little by way of TEFL certs in Mexico City. Of the two that I know of, both are designed for internal use in a language school and designed for non-native speakers.

Guadlajara, Cuernavaca, and Acapulco offer more options. Email me at [email protected] for more on these

On safety, if you are street smart, DF is not a problem. That free room you mention...if it's in a nice area, you'll be okay. If you wanted to teach ESL afterwards, you'll also be okay as the schools are in good areas, or they wil send you to nice areas only to teach business English.

Watch out for the metro.

Guy