Playa del Carmen and Cancun are two of Mexico’s most popular Caribbean locations. Playa, as it’s known locally, is the Riviera’s trendy city with something for everyone: sandy, sun-kissed beaches, a plethora of sporting activities and Maya cultural heritage. The capital of Quintana Roo, there is much more to Cancun than just tourist resorts; it’s a bustling city with great nightlife, endless beaches and island getaways just a short boat ride away.
Learn Spanish on the shores of the Caribbean (Photo: Christian Córdova via Flickr / CC by 2.0)
Quintana Roo has a huge number of language schools based in these popular tourist spots. These language centres give a variety of Spanish courses, including evening courses, intensive language classes and even specialised courses for children. We’ve researched what’s on offer, and picked out four of the best language schools that the Caribbean coast has to offer, taking into account course structure, teaching style and testimonials from previous students.
Agora Language Centre
www.agoralanguagecenter.com/
With over 15 years of experience teaching Spanish as a foreign language, Agora Language School’s staff give Spanish classes to students of all levels and ages. Both grammar and conversation classes are taught in small groups to ensure each student receives the support they require. The school can arrange local accommodation for students with either Mexican host families or in a central apartment. Agora Language School organises weekend and after-class cultural and sporting activities. The language school is centrally located in Playa del Carmen’s downtown, just 10 minutes from the beach, close to local shops, bars and restaurants. Agora is a SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española) Exam Centre so students can certify their language skills here too.
Friendly and fun classes at Language School Chichén Itzá (Photo via Language School Chichén Itzá)
Chichén Itzá Language School
www.chichenitzalanguages.com/
Situated just two blocks from the beach and one block from Playa’s famous 5th Avenue, Chichén Itzá Language School offers a variety of language classes in a fun, friendly, family-like environment. This beach-side school gives private, semi-private and group classes made up of a maximum of seven students. These classes cater to all Spanish levels, whether you know only a few words or are an advanced user of the language. In addition, the school hosts free activities to immerse yourself in after classes, such as conversation classes, Mexican cooking classes, salsa dancing, and local tours. This is a family-run school that employs certified and experienced Mexican teachers. The school can also arrange accommodation with local host families to immerse students in the rich culture of the area.
Enforex
www.enforex.com/school-playa-carmen.html
Enforex is a reputable, international language school that teaches Spanish around the world. Their school in Playa del Carmen offers a vast range of courses: intensive, super-intensive, part-time, DELE Exam Preparation as well as courses for Spanish Teachers, Christmas courses, and classes that combine Spanish with cultural activities. The Spanish classes are typically relaxed and fun, with the group size varying across the courses. The school is located just six blocks from the shore of the Caribbean Sea. Classes are taught in an authentic local building with thatched-roof, open-air classrooms surrounded by tropical gardens and an onsite cafeteria. Enforex also offers two options for accommodation: staying with a local host family or in the school’s student residence.
Ustudy
www.ustudyspanish.com/
Located in Cancun, Ustudy’s Spanish classes aim to emulate the vibrant energy of the city itself. The team is made up of young teachers who all have experience of studying or living in a foreign country. Classes utilise engaging learning material and authentic experiences in an environment that is friendly, supportive and adaptive to student needs. The school is located in Cancún’s downtown, near its commercial centre, surrounded by cafes, restaurants and local amenities. Spanish classes often take place outside of the classroom: on the beach, at the swimming pool or inside the hostel where students stay, ensuring students immerse in Mexican life and learn from real-life situations. Though not always in a classroom, teachers ensure materials are provided at off-site locations too: free wifi, fresh drinking water, and the necessary materials for the class.