Job Discussion Forums

[or82]

Thanks guys,

Another question, though. Everyone keeps talking about how cold it get in Monterrey. Just how cold does it get and how long is it really cold for?

The information packet I got from my place of employment says that it is hot in Monterrey for 9 months out of the year and that it is colder for 3 months. Is this true?

And for those of you living in Monterrey, I'll be working at the Colegio Ingles. Have any of you heard anything about the school, good or bad?\

Thanks!

[tagastelum]

I just can't keep away from this forum!

Does it get cold in Monterrey? Yes and no. If you have lived in the northern latitudes, no it never gets very cold here. This past winter was the "coldest" in many years and much ado was made over the more than 50 cold fronts that swept across the region. How cold did it get? Around 0C overnight in the higher elevations, with daytime highs topping out around 5C. And these are the coldest days, which are infrequent. Usually, winter lows are around 10C, with daytime highs around 15C-20C.

But compared to other cities in Mexico, Monterrey's winters are considered cold. Not as bad as Chihuahua, but certainly colder than places further south.

The real problem is the lack of heat in most buildings. Some people use gas space heaters in their homes. And, although they keep rooms toasty, there is always the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning. This scares the heck out of me, so I just make due with sweaters indoors. Concrete and tile floors get plenty chilly on winter mornings, so just make sure you have some warm slippers and you'll be fine.

Chicago this certainly is not.

[cangringo]

Ya it got cold this last winter where we live and I think once it even dipped below 0 a degree or two. We had many weeks of 5 degree weather which feels a lot colder because of the cold buildings with no heat. We have a gas heater and there's no chance of CM poisoning in our house because there are so many cracks and none of the windows are sealed properly so we used our heater a lot as well as slippers. The problem was more the gas bill...150 bucks sheesh. Anyway most people thought we were crazy for using our heater and they usually wear jackets and gloves and such inside in the winter. Without the heater in our house you would need socks and slippers, jackets, gloves to be comfy.

There is really no spring here, it goes from hot hot summer to cold winter but on a positive note, there were some fantastic 25 - 28 degree winter days this year.

Bottom line is, it depends on what you are looking for and it's hard to describe because there is such a mix of cultures here.

[3eyes]

This thread makes me very happy since I'm planning a move to Monterrey with my boyfriend sometime in the next few months. Thanks everyone for sharing your wisdom!

Any advice on finding teaching positions in Monterrey? What's the word on the street about pay and working conditions at English institutes vs universities vs private schools? Is it nearly impossible to find a job before arriving? What time of year do most teachers get hired?

I've been teaching English overseas for a year and a half, have a TEFL cert, a degree in English & Linguistics, and speak some Spanish. Please tell me my chances of finding a job with a comfortable salary are ok!

Thanks again for all the info.

[cangringo]

Hey 3eyes...

I would apply at the American School downtown first and foremost especially with a degree. I don't work there because they do require degrees but I've heard good things about the salary and conditions. I'm sorry the full name escapes me right now but I'll try to remember.

I would say with your qualifications, your chances are excellent.

[eclectic]

I have heard all my adult life Monterrey is highly americanized. But I wouldnt believe it til I saw it myself.