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Difference between revisions of "Mexico"
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Mexico (Spanish: México), officially the United Mexican States (Spanish: Estados Unidos Mexicanos), is a country in North America, lying between the United States of America to the north, and Guatemala and Belize to the southeast. Its extensive coastlines include the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Mexico has nice and warm weather, unique food, art and archeology, pyramids, museums, Haciendas, 6,000 miles of shoreline, superb architecture and 21st century cities, weather from snow mountains in the Sierras, to rainy jungles in the Southeast and desert in the Northwest, lots of golf courses throughout the country, excellent fishing, world top destinations like Acapulco, Cancun, Cozumel, Los Cabos, and Mazatlan. Mexico is ranked 7th major destination for foreigner visitors, according to WTO.
Mexico is one of the most popular tourist countries on the planet. Much of the tourist industry is centered around the beach resorts as well as the altiplano in the central part of the country. Visiting the northern interior allows visitors to get off the beaten path a bit. American tourists tend to predominate on the Baja peninsula and the more modernized beach resorts (Cancún, Puerto Vallarta), while European tourists congregate around the smaller resort areas in the south like Playa del Carmen and colonial towns like San Cristobal de las Casas, Guanajuato.
Mexico uses the metric system for all measurements. All weather forecasts will be in Celsius (°C).
The climate varies in Mexico. In the northernmost area of the Baja Peninsula, on the Pacific coast, the climate is Mediterranean, whereas the climate is arid on the other side of the peninsula, facing the Sea of Cortez. As you go south on the Baja Peninsula, the climate changes to become a subtropical sub-arid/semi-arid climate, until ou reach La Paz and Cabo, which has a unique tropical desert climate. On the mainland, the northern area of Mexico tends to be mountainous and chilly, and the lower areas have an arid climate. A tropical climate prevails from around the Tampico area down to Cancun, as well as the adjacent side on the Pacific.
High, rugged mountains; low coastal plains; high plateaus; temperate plains with grasslands and Mezquite trees in the northeast, desert and even more rugged mountains in the northwest, tropical rainforests in the south and southeast {Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán y Quintana Roo} semiarid in places like {Aguascalientes, San Luis Potosí} and temperate coniferous and deciduous forests in the central part of the country {Mexico City, Toluca}.
Easter is widely observed nationwide, according to the yearly Catholic calendar (the first Sunday after the first full moon in Spring). Actual non-working days may shift to the Monday before the holiday, so check an up-to-date calendar.
Mexico observes daylight savings time (DST) the same way as the USA did pre-2007, from first Sunday in April to last Sunday in October. This now includes the tropical regions of southern Mexico as well. Note there will be several weeks each year when the US is on DST, but Mexico is not. The state of Sonora south of Arizona, does not observe DST since Arizona doesn't have it either.
Other destinations
NOTE: If taking the CHEPE train ride starting in Los Mochis, the real scenery starts at El Fuerte. Stand on the western side and travel uphill to Creel or Chihuahua. Hang out in the few open vestibules with your camera -- the uphill scenery is fairly splendid for at least two of the seven or nine or twelve hours of the journey. On the downhill run, put yourself in the club (bar) car, where you can stretch out in a modicum of comfort. The first-class (express) and second-class (tourist) trains are essentially the same, except that the express stops less and is twice as expensive.
Archaeological Sites
Get in
By plane
From the United States
There are hundreds of daily flights linking Mexico to cities large and small throughout the United States.
Note that as with the United States, you will have to clear both immigration and customs at your first point of entry in Mexico, even though that airport may not be your final destination. (For example, many trips on Aeromexico will involve connecting through its Mexico City hub.) You will then have to re-check your bags and possibly go through security again to proceed to your next flight segment.
From Australia or New Zealand
Fly from either Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or Auckland(NZ) direct to Los Angeles. Delta, Qantas, United, and V Australia offer non-stop air service from Australia to Los Angeles. Air New Zealand offers one-stop air service from Australia and non-stop air service from Auckland to Los Angeles. Hawaiian Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui offer one- or two-stop air service to Los Angeles from Australia and New Zealand.
Many airlines fly from Los Angeles to Mexico including AeroMexico, Alaska, Volaris, Horizon, Aerolitoral, and United. More options are available if connecting through another U.S. city. Also, make sure to have a good look at visas beforehand - even just for transit you will need something for USA, and if you get a visa waiver, they treat Mexico as part of USA, meaning if you stay longer than 90 days in Mexico, you will need to travel further south before returning to USA.
From Europe
Many commercial airlines link Mexico directly to Europe. It is always worthwhile to compare flight offers from air carriers who can bring you to Mexico City or Cancun via many European hubs, like Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid.....the flight duration from those cities is always approx. 11 hours (+ your connecting flight from home, if you do not board directly at the mentioned airports)
By train
There is at least one place where Mexico is accessible via rail and a short walk - south of San Diego. The San Diego Trolley can be taken from downtown San Diego (which Amtrak serves) to the California-Baja California border. (note: El Paso/Juarez is also well served by Amtrak, the station is within a stones throw of the Rio Grande)
By car
American automobile insurance is not accepted in Mexico; however it is easy to obtain short-term or long-term tourist policies that include the mandatory liability coverage, together with theft and accident cover for your vehicle and, often, legal assistance cover. Should you decide to drive to Mexico, the Transport and Communications Secretariat website has free downloadable road maps.
Foreign-plated vehicles must obtain the necessary permits before being allowed into the interior of Mexico. This can be done at the border checkpoints by showing your vehicle title or registration, as well as immigration documents and a valid credit card. It is now possible to apply for your vehicle import permit on-line. Vehicle permits will only be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, so the papers will have to be in the name of the applicant. The Baja California peninsular and the northern part of the State of Sonora do not require a permit.
Due to the incredibly high volume of drugs and illegal immigration (into US) and drug money and weapons (into Mexico) crossing the US-Mexico border, expect long delays and thorough searches of vehicles when crossing the border. At some of the busiest crossings, expect a queue of 1-3 hr.
By bus
The Mexican bus system is reportedly the most efficient in the world. There are many different independent companies but all use a central computerized ticketing system. Rates per mile are generally comparable to those of Greyhound in the U.S., but there are more departures and the system serves much smaller villages than its American counterpart. There are many bus companies based in Mexico with branch offices in major U.S. cities with a few such examples noted below.
A ticket to a major Mexican city from the U.S. can be bought for as little as $60 roundtrip (San Antonio TX to Monterrey N.L.). These companies, however, do cater to mostly Hispanics or Mexican Nationals living in the U.S. and operate mostly in Spanish.
Greyhound offers tickets from the US to major Mexican cities, including Monterrey, Queretaro, Durango, Mazatlan, Torreon, Mexico City. It is best (and cheapest) to buy a round-trip Greyhound ticket since it may be more difficult and expensive to buy a ticket from Mexico to a US destination which is not a major city. When departing from Mexico, the local bus line (usually Futura) will change the Greyhound-issued ticket into its own, free of charge.
By boat
Visa and other entrance requirements
According to the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores), certain foreign nationals who intend to stay in México fewer than 180 days for the purpose of tourism or 30 days for business can fill out a tourist card at the border or upon landing at an airport after presenting a valid passport, for $22. If arriving via air, it is included in the price of the fare. This service is available to citizens of Andorra, Argentina, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Belize, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, United States of America, Uruguay and Venezuela (see official list at [20]).
The current Mexican tourist card is formally known as a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (Multiple Immigration Form), or FMM. It has a perforation that divides the card into two parts, of which the right side asks for some of the same information requested on the left side. At entry, after reviewing your passport and filled-out FMM, the immigration officer will stamp your passport and the FMM, separate the FMM along the perforation and give the right side of the FMM back to you with your passport. Keep the FMM together with your passport at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure the right side of the FMM is returned to the Mexican government at time of departure so that the bar code can be scanned, thus showing that you left the country on time. For example, if you are flying with Aeromexico, they will ask for your passport and FMM at check-in for your flight home, then staple your FMM to your boarding pass. You are expected to then hand the boarding pass together with your FMM to the gate agent as you board your flight. If you lose your FMM during your visit to Mexico, you may be subject to substantial delays and a MXN$500 fine before you can leave the country.
Electronic authorization visa (Autorización Electrónica) [21] for travelling to Mexico is available on the Internet for nationals from Ukraine, and Russia. Nationals from Peru may use this service under restricted circumstances. Other nationalities must contact a Mexican consulate in order to find out the requirements for citizens of their country, and may have to apply for and obtain a visa in advance of travel. If you are in need of other information, Mexico has diplomatic offices in the following cities around the world: [22]. The consulates in the USA are typically open for business to non-citizens (by telephone or in-person) only 08:30-12:30.
Holders of Indian passport can obtain visa on arrival when in possession of a valid tourist visa to the USA. [23]
If you cross the border via road, do not expect the authorities to automatically signal you to fill out your paperwork. You will have to locate the border office yourself.
The immigration officer at your point of entry into Mexico can also request that you demonstrate that you have sufficient economic solvency and a round trip ticket.
If you do not intend to travel past the "border zone" and your stay does not exceed three days, U.S. and Canadian nationals require only a proof of citizenship. Reentry into the United States generally requires a passport, but a U.S. or Canadian Enhanced Drivers License (or Enhanced Photo ID) or U.S. passport card is acceptable for reentry by land or sea.
Get around
Travelling in Mexico is most practical by bus, car, or air. Passenger transport by train is almost nonexistent. Except the Chihuahua del Pacifico rail line which pull out every morning at both ends of the line, one from Los Mochis on the Pacific coast, across from Baja California, and the other from Chihuahua in the east (due south of El Paso, Texas). They cross each other roughly midways at Divisadero and Barrancas Copper Canyon stations at an altitude of 2100 m (7000 ft).
By car
Due to a government scheme in the early 1990s to create infrastructure, the best roads are toll roads. Toll roads can be relatively costly (400-800 pesos is common on longer trips) but are much faster and better maintained. First-class buses generally travel by toll roads (and the toll is obviously included in the ticket price).
US vehicle insurance is not valid in Mexico, and while Mexican auto insurance is not required, it is highly recommended, as any minor accident could land you in jail without it. MexiPass [24] and AAA offer Mexican auto insurance.
When traveling on Mexican roads, especially near the borders with the United States and Guatemala, one will probably encounter several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. If you are coming from the United States, you may not be used to this, and it can be intimidating. However, these are rarely a problem for honest people. Simply do what the soldiers tell you to do, and treat them with respect. The best way to show respect when entering a checkpoint is to turn your music down, lift sunglasses from your face, and be prepared to roll your window down. They should treat you with respect as well, and they usually do. If you are asked to unpack any part of your vehicle, do so without complaint. It is their right to make you completely unload in order for them to inspect your cargo.
Tourists are often warned about traveling on roads at night. Although bandidos are rare in more metropolitan areas, err on the side of caution in more rural areas. The best bet is to drive during only daylight hours. Cattle, dogs, and other animals also can appear on the roadway unexpectedly, so if you do have to drive at night, be very cautious. If possible, follow a bus or truck that seems to be driving safely.
Car Rental Companies in Mexico are everywhere in the big cities and airports making it easy to get a rental car while traveling through Mexico. Some of the biggest car rental companie sin Mexico are Sixt rent a car, Avis, Hertz, and several other big brand car rental companies.
The Secretariat of Communication and Transport recently set up a new mapping tool similar to those in the U.S. like Mapquest, its name is Traza Tu Ruta [25] and is very helpful to find how to get to your destination using Mexico's roads. It is in Spanish but can be used with basic knowledge of the language.
Foreign drivers' licenses are recognized and recommended. Speeding tickets are common, and to ensure your presence at the hearing, the officer may choose to keep your license. He is within his rights to do so. Beware though, police officers are known to keep driver's licenses until they are given a bribe.
At petrol (gas) stations, make sure the pump is zeroed out before the attendant begins pumping your gas so that you don't end up paying more than you should. There is only one brand of gas station (Pemex) and prices are generally the same regardless of location, so don't bother shopping around.
Good maps are invaluable and the Mexico maps included in "North American Road Atlas" books are worse than useless. The Guia Roji maps are particularly good.
See also: Driving in Mexico
By plane
Mexico is a large country and the low-cost revolution that started in 2005 (following the break up of the CINTRA monopoly, which owned Mexicana and Aeromexico, in 2000) means that fares are often ridiculously cheap if you book in advance. Note that now with the increases in fuel charges the bargain days are mostly gone and the airlines have had to raise prices to survive the recent recession. There are bargains to be found and you can keep abreast by signing on to a reliable notification service such as Kayak.com and the airlines' respective websites. Only Aeromexico and Volaris are currently syndicated on Kayak, Skyscanner and other similar sites.
The main full-service airlines are:
Then there are the palette of low-cost carriers which includes:
Other smaller regional/commuter carriers operating mainly non-jet aircraft are:
NOTE: Mexicana Airlines filed for bankruptcy & ceased operations in 2010 and are now currently working to restructure and get funding for a new start up company. In the meantime the other carriers are picking up Mexicana's former routes and airport slots. Always check the individual carrier's website to see just where they fly at this point. Other carriers such as Taesa, Aerocalifornia, Alma de Mexico, Líneas Aéreas Azteca, Aviacsa, & Avolar are no longer in business. Things are changing somewhat rapidly now.
By bus
If traveling by bus, be sure to take the express buses, if available (they are called directo). Other buses often stop at many smaller stations along the way, making the trip a lot longer. If you have experience with Greyhound buses in the US, you're in for a pleasant surprise. First class buses are usually direct routes and are the best option for most. These buses are comfortable, have washrooms and will generally show movies, which may or may not be English with Spanish subtitles. Second class buses may be very similar to 1st class just making more stops or in rural areas they may be essentially chicken buses (polleros). Executive and Luxury lines cost about 60% more than first class, may be faster, usually have larger seats, and they have less frequent departures; they are really only a good option for elderly or business travelers. With the advent of NAFTA, some bus companies are now offering service from US cities. The major bus companies offering these kind of services are:
Travellers heading east (more or less) from Mexico City (TAPO bus terminal) can find ticket information on TicketBus [26]. Other destinations can be found on individual companies' websites (see above). Schedules for all Mexico are available at horariodebuses [27]
On the other hand if traveling within a city, you won't find a pleasant surprise. You will find one of the most chaotic public transport systems full of the popular "peseros". "Peseros" are small buses with varying color codes depending on the city you are in. Usually the route is written on cardboard attached to the windshield/windscreen or written in soap or chalk on the windshield listing out the places (hospital, university, shopping centers, major landmark, name of neighborhoods, etc) the bus goes through or by. Unlike in many countries, bus stops are uncommon and you are expect to signal the bus to pick you up and drop you off wherever you want. You will rarely find a stop button in a pesero; just shout the word "baja" for it to stop. Fares are cheap and vary from 2 to 7 pesos approximately.
By train
Passenger trains are very limited in Mexico with only a few lines in operation in places like the Copper Canyon in the northern state of Chihuahua, that line is also known as the Chihuahua Pacific Railway [28] since its final destination is the Pacific coastal city of Tobolobampo in the state of Sinaloa. In the state of Jalisco there is also a line which travels from the state capital city Guadalajara to its final destination in the small town of Tequila, this is why this line is called the Tequila Express [29]. In the Yucatan Peninsula there is a line of passenger trains which runs from Villahermosa through Campeche, Merida, Playa del Carmen and its final destination being the city of Cancun, this train also runs through a few Mayan ruins including Chichen-Itza and this gives it its name of the Expreso Maya [30] which is Spanish for Mayan Express. Mexico City and Monterrey have subway service, and it might be possible to hop aboard freight cars in some parts of the country (if you happen to be an adventurer).
By thumb
One upside of the high petroleum prices is that hitching is beginning to be more common in Mexico again, particularly the rural areas. In areas near big cities, hitching should be more difficult, and is not really advisable due to security reasons. However, in village areas, this will be really possible and most likely a nice experience. Since villagers have always had a hard time affording gas, and nowadays many are turning to picking up paying hitchhikers as a way to afford the next trip into town. Baja, the Sierra Tarahumara and Oaxaca and Chiapas all have good possibilities for the hitchhiker. Hitchhiking possibilities vary according to region. Mexican culture is often accepting of hitchhiking and it's a common practice among Mexican youngsters going to the beach in Easter vacations, though in some cases a money contribution is expected for gas because of its relatively high prices. You should make it clear that you have no money to offer before accepting the ride, if this is the case. If you're willing to pay, trucks will often provide lifts for about half the price of a bus ticket. Of course you may be able to negotiate a better deal. Hitchhiking is considered fairly safe and easy in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Mexico has 68 official languages, Spanish being the main one. The other 67 are indigenous languages that, although officially recognized, people almost never speak. Spanish is used by virtually the whole population and all public communications (signs, documents, media, etc.) are conducted in the language. Bilingual signs in Spanish and English might be available in popular tourist destinations.
English is understood by many in Mexico City as well as by some tourist workers in popular tourist places, but nevertheless, most Mexicans don't speak English. Educated Mexicans, especially younger ones, and professional businessmen are the people most likely to speak some English. The most popular foreign languages to learn within Mexico after English are French, Italian, German and Japanese. Among clerks, policemen, and drivers (most particularly the last) there is basically no such thing as knowledge of foreign languages.
Mexico has one of the richest diversity of languages, with more of 60 indigenous languages spoken within the Mexican territory. These languages are spoken within the communities of these indigenous peoples, who are largely segregated from mainstream mestizo society. In any case, the probabilities of finding a speaker of any of these languages is small, since only half of 20% that comprises Indian population in Mexico speaks indigenous language. On the other hand, most of these communities are fluent in Spanish as well. Therefore learning any of these indigenous languages is not indispensable at all; quite the opposite, unexpected and will gain a lot of respect from these communities.
See also: Spanish phrasebook
The currency of Mexico is the peso (MXN), divided into 100 centavos. Coins are issued in 5 , 10 (steel), 20, 50 centavo (brass; new 50-centavo coins issued from 2011 on are steel and smaller in size) and 1, 2, 5 (steel ring, brass center), 10, 20, 50, and 100 peso (brass ring, steel or silver center) denominations, but it's extremely rare to find coins valued at more than 10 pesos. Banknotes are produced in 20 (blue), 50 (pink-red), 100 (red), 200 (green), 500 (brown), and 1000 peso (purple and pink for the latest issue, purple for older issues) denominations. The most recent 20- and 50-peso bills are made from polymer plastic, and there are several different series of all banknotes. Ten-peso notes exist, but are very rare.
Do not accept old pesos (issued before 1993): they are practically worthless.
The symbol for pesos is the same as for US dollars, which can be slightly confusing. Prices in dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an S with a double stroke. As of June 2011, the exchange rate hovers around $13 MXN to $1 USD. As this exchange rate has typically hovered around $11 MXN to $1 USD, vendors and merchants will often use this rate of exchange. Thus it is currently better to purchase with pesos. US dollars are widely accepted in the far north and in tourist locales elsewhere.
Euros are generally not accepted by merchants, and even banks headquartered in Europe may refuse to accept euros for exchange. On the other hand, most banks and exchange offices ("casas de cambio") will widely accept them.
If you have brought cash in USD or EUR, the best places to change your money are at arrival airport (such as MEX and CUN), where many money exchanges are located already in the arrival hall (where you can also compare some exchange rates and choose the most convenient) and, normally, at airports, the exchange rate is usually fair. Be sure to pass through Customs before looking for foreign exchange as inside customs zone in Cancun the rate is around $9.6 MXN to $1 USD, which is far lower than what the greediest street vendors ask for.
If you would like to wait until later to obtain Mexican currency, try not to change at your hotel, as the rates there tend to be extremely disadvantageous for tourists. Often, you can find money exchanges at strategic places in most touristic destinations and near the hotel (zones). The exchanges rates should not differ drastically from the ones at airport. If you are unfamiliar with Mexican money (bills, coins), try to stick to official foreign exchange booths. In several internationally popular beach destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos, local merchants are accustomed to U.S. dollars and will often accept them as payment (they even have dual-currency cash registers and drawers). However, do bear in mind that the convenience of such "private" money exchange usually comes with a slightly unfavorable exchange rate.
Credit and debit Cards (with Maestro or MC/VISA affiliation) are widely accepted in Mexico. You can use them at ATMs as well as in most department stores, bigger restaurants, gas stations, but be sure that outside cities you always carry sufficient cash in pesos in your pocket, and generally verify the possibility to pay with card before consumption. Smaller (often family run) businesses often accept only cash. Most of the time, an extra 5% when paying with card. is asked. Also, you cannot get lowers price if you haggle unless you pay cash. Often, you can pay half or less by acting like you are leaving.
While many Pemex stations accept credit cards, especially in locations that have heavy tourist traffic, some do not; travelers who intend to pay by credit card should always ask the attendant if the card is accepted before pumping begins.
ATMs are easy to come by. Bank of America customers can avoid ATM fees by using Santander Serfin ATMs. Other banks may have similar policies, check with your respective institution. For example, Banamex bank is owned by Citybank/Citygroup, and Bancomer is owned by BBVA, who is related to Chase in USA. Ask to your bank if they have relation with mexican banks, and the advantages that such ally can provide. Otherwise, do not be surprised to find yourself with a fee for each withdrawal. ATMs in smaller towns can run out of currency; sometimes this is a regular occurrence. Check with the bank (or locals) about the best time to use the ATM and never wait until the last minute to get cash.
Merchants can be picky about the state of your paper money and may scrutinize it and reject anything with rips. Try to keep it in as pristine condition as possible. Reputedly, this is more the case the farther south you go. In any case, you can easily enter a bank with some damaged bill to get it exchanged into another one.
Merchants are often reluctant to make change in smaller towns. Try to avoid paying with overly large denominations; the best customer has exact change. In rural areas, your 'change' may consist of chiclets or other small commodities.
Mexican cuisine can be described better as a collection of various regional cuisines rather than a standard list of dishes for the whole country. Because of climate, geography and ethnic differences, we can classify Mexican cuisine broadly in 4 great categories according to the region:
Ask for the "platillo tipico" of the town, which is the local speciality that may not be found elsewhere, a variation, or the birthplace of a recipe, also consider that most of the recipes change from place to place, like tamales, in the south are made with the banana plant leaves, and in the Huasteca region tamales are very big, one is OK for a complete family.
Traditional Mexican food can often be very spicy; if you are not used to peppers, always ask if your food includes it. "(¿Esto tiene chile? Es picante?)."
There are many food carts on the streets of Mexican cities and towns. Travelers are advised to eat from these carts with caution, as hygienic preparation practices are not always reliable. In doing so, you may (or may not) find some of the most unique and genuinely Mexican dishes you've ever had. From these vendors, you may find tacos, burgers, bread, roasted field corn or elote served with mayonnaise, or a light cream, and sprinkled with fresh white cheese, roasted sweet potato called camote, and almost any kind of food and service you would imagine.
You can measure the quality of food by popularity, do not eat on lonely places, even if they are restaurants or hotels. Consider that Mexicans eat their main meal in the middle of the afternoon (around 3 o'clock), with breakfast or "almuerzo", a mid-morning affair after a very light something, like a small plate of fruit or a roll with coffee, in the very early morning. Although, many mexicans have large breakfasts in the morning. Later, at night the meal varies from very light, such as commonly sweet rolls or breads, coffee or hot chocolate, to heavy dinner, such as pozole, tacos, tamales, etc. Schedule your meals accordingly and you will get a better perspective on the gauge of how busy (popular) a restaurant is.
Tap water is potable, but generally not recommended for drinking. Some exaggerated people even claim that tap water is not good for brushing teeth. Hotels usually give guests one (large) bottle of drinking water per room per night. Bottled water is also readily available in supermarkets and at tourist attractions.
Lighter Mexican beers are often served with lime and salt, though many Mexicans do not drink beer in this fashion. In some places you will find beer served as a prepared drink called "Michelada" or simply "Chelada". The formula varies depending on the place, but it's usually beer mixed with lime juice and various sauces and spices on ice served in a salt rim glass. Other variation called "Cubana" includes Clamato cocktail, soybean sauce, salt and a little bit of hot sauce.
Non alcoholic beverages:
Alcoholmeters are widely used in driving roads If drinking, always have a designated driver. Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage will result in 1 to 3 days in jail.
Mexico, especially the southern state of Chiapas, produces excellent coffee. Café con leche, usually one part coffee to one part steamed milk, is very popular. Unfortunately, many places in Mexico that are not cafés serve Nescafe or other instant coffee - you may have to search for the good coffee, but it's there.
The most important Universities in Mexico are as follows: UNAM, ranked 73° worldwide, and the best in Latin America, which leads Mexico with 50% of Mexican scientific research, many of Mexico most illustrious people attended UNAM, including:
Its main campus is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Murals in the main campus were painted by some of the most recognized artists in Mexican history, such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros.
IPN (Instituto Politecnico Nacional), a leading institution on engineering and architecture programs, it's a Polytechnical school and Most Mexico's technological creations can be attributed to IPN Alumni.
ITESM (Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey), located in Monterrey but with branch campuses in many other Mexican cities, too, it's a Private Research University. It surpassed IPN in some Engineering areas (Most notably Computer Science) some years ago and it's on par with UNAM. It has many exchange programs with universities across the world, and even double degree programs; Some of them include:
Anahuac (Universidad Anahuac), a prestigious private institution sponsored by the Legion of Christ, which also belongs to the Anahuac University Network with campuses in Mexico, Chile, Spain, Italy and United Sates, and the Anahuac Educational Consortium, the elite elementary to high school institutions of the Semper Altius network and Oak Academies. The main Campus of the Anahuac University is located on Huixquilucan, Mexico State. Education is based in high leadership, entrepreneurism and above all, the Human Values. Alumni include some of the highest ranked executives and company presidents of Mexico and Latin America, including the Slim family. Ranks as the number one institution in Mexico on the Professional Clasification of International Universities ranking by the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Mines de Paris.
Ibero (Universidad Iberoamericana), is a Mexican private institution of higher education sponsored by the Society of Jesus. Its flagship campus is located in the Santa Fe district of Mexico City but there are others located in Guadalajara, León, Torreón, Puebla and Playas de Tijuana. among its alumni, is president Vicente Fox, Emilio Azcarraga Jean - President and Owner of Televisa the most important media network in Latin America, Carlos Guzmán Bofill - CEO of Hewlett-Packard México, Daniel Servitje - President and CEO of Bimbo, Guillermo Arriaga - Film screenwriter, Novelist, and Director (Amores Perros, 21 Grams and Babel), Alejandro González Iñárritu - Filmmaker (Amores Perros, 21 Grams and Babel).
ITAM (Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México) is by far one of the best universities in Mexico. Founded by the businessman Raúl Baillères in 1946, it has a very specific focus in the Economics sector. With 14 programs, it has been awarded by several sources as having the best programs in Business Administration, Actuarial Science, Economics, International Relations and Public Accounting. It has the best MBA program in Latin America as well as the best Economics PhD in Mexico. Many public figures and government functionaries come from this prestigious university.
For graduate degrees and executive preparation:
The IPADE Business school currently ranks as the world's 7th best MBA programs outside the US, and the only one in Latin America, according to Forbes.
The EGADE Master Business School in Monterrey is ranked No.68 of MBA schools worldwide, the first in Latin America For many years it was considered a school exclusive for Affluent people, it aggressively seeks to open its doors to talented minds of all income levels through an amazingly rich scholarship program, funded by the periodic raffles of multi-million dollar, fully furnished mansions along with luxury cars and a big sum of money.
If one had to Compare them with American Universities:
Most of them have programs for foreigners. Foreigners can take a course to learn Spanish, or even study a whole career. Also, there are some other courses where you can learn traditional Mexican activities such as handcrafts. The tuition at a public school is rarely over $200USD. Many excellent private universities exist in the larger cities (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, etc.) and provide good education.
There are Spanish language schools throughout Mexico. The city with the most schools is Cuernavaca, with more than 50 schools. Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato also offer a number of schools to choose from. Prices vary; however, most schools are very reasonably priced. Many schools can arrange homestays with local Mexican families.
Working may require a work visa, which is difficult to get if you just want to freelance for a short time.
Many important headquarters are located throughout the main cities of Mexico. Mexican top corporations like Televisa, Bimbo, Cemex, Telmex, Vitro, are often willing to hire professionals who speak English as their native language as most of the business scene is developed with North American corporations.
Native English speakers can pick up work, as English teachers. The upside is that English speakers with no knowledge of Spanish are sought after, because they will force their students to practice English. The downside is that salaries are somewhat low.
A number of hotel chains are available throughout Mexico, including Palace Resorts, Le Blanc Spa Resort, Best Western, Holiday Inn, CityExpress, Fiesta Inn, Fairmont, Hilton, Ritz, Camino Real, Starwood (Sheraton, W, Westin, Four Points) and many others. Rates have risen considerably in recent years, though most are still reasonable compared to similar U.S. or European hotels. Chain accommodations are usually clean and comfortable, good for business travelers, but not necessarily for those wanting to experience Mexico itself. Smaller hotels and motels along the roadside may not be safe or comfortable. Boutique hotels are found all over the country; price range varies but all of them are rich in Mexican traditions, elegance and charm, the perfect way to experience the cultural heritage of each state. A great source of information is Melba Levick's book Mexicasa, found in many libraries and online bookstores. There are also many all-inclusive resorts for those visiting the major beach destinations.
There is a large backpacker culture in Mexico, and there are many hostels offering dorm accommodation and private rooms. You can expect to pay between 50 and 150 pesos for a night in a dorm, often including breakfast. Hostels are a fantastic place to share information with fellow travelers, and you can often find people who have been to your future destinations. There are a number of internet sites that allow you to book hostels in advance for a small fee, and this is becoming an increasingly common practice.
The most authentic accommodation can usually be found by asking locals or gringos, especially in the smaller towns. If you are unsure about the safety or conditions of the room ask to see it before paying. This will not be considered rude.
If you are going to be in cooler areas in the winter consider bringing an electric blanket - as there is power, but no heat in the cheaper hotels. And although it may get quite hot by afternoon outside, adobe and cement are like fridges. An electric tea kettle is also a good idea, hot water might not be available when you want it.
If you're traveling with children, use a plastic case (with wheels and a handle) as luggage, and it can be used as a bathtub for the kids if necessary. Budget hotels rarely, if ever, have bathtubs.
Stay safe
The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect visitors to major tourist destinations, and there is no evidence that Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) have targeted visitors and residents based on their nationality. Resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major trafficking routes. The TCOs themselves are engaged in a violent struggle to control drug trafficking routes and other criminal activity. As a result, crime and violence are serious problems throughout the country and can occur anywhere. Visitors and citizens have fallen victim to TCO activity, including homicide, gun battles, kidnapping, carjacking and highway robbery.
According to the statistics last published by the Mexican government in late 2011, 47,515 people were killed in narcotics-related violence in Mexico between December 1, 2006 and September 30, 2011, with 12,903 narcotics-related homicides in the first nine months of 2011 alone. While most of those killed in narcotics-related violence have been members of TCOs, innocent persons have also been killed. Source: [33]
Advisory Issued: 20-November-2012
In most of the cities, location is very important as security changes from place to place. Areas close to downtown (centro) are safer to walk at night, especially on the "Plaza", "Zocalo" or "Jardin" (main square) and areas nearby. Stay in populated areas, avoid poor neighborhoods, especially at night, and don't walk there at any time if you are alone. Vicious beatings have been reported at resorts by people who have travelled alone, so stay alert for any suspicious-looking individual.
Since 2006 violence related to drug cartels has become an issue; see Drug Traffic Issues below.
Political violence in Chiapas and Oaxaca has abated in recent years, and is far less of a threat than drug related crime. However, keep in mind that Mexican authorities do not look approvingly on foreigners who participate in demonstrations (even peaceful ones) or voice support for groups such as the Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional and its leader, Subcomandante Marcos, even if their images and slogans are commonly sold on t-shirts and caps in markets.
As in any city, do not wave cash or credit cards around. Use them discreetly and put them away as quickly as possible.
The Mexican legal system was until recently under Napoleonic code, but if you ever find yourself in trouble with the law in Mexico, the punishments are a lot more severe than in many other countries.
Beggars are not usually a threat, but you will find lots in urban areas. Avoid being surrounded by them as some can pickpocket your goods. Giving away two pesos quickly can get you out of such troubles (but may also attract other beggars). Most poor and homeless Mexicans prefer to sell trinkets, gum, sing, or provide some meager service than beg outright.
In other cities, such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, are safer than most places in Mexico. However, caution is still recommended.
Drug Traffic Issues
Understand that the country is going through a transitionary period. Since the current president Felipe Calderon came to power in 2006, he has waged war on the drug cartels, and they have waged war in turn against the government (and more often, among each other). If you are going into Mexico, avoid bringing up this issue with your hosts or Mexican friends. They are quite aware of their country's numerous problems and do not need a foreigner to remind them.
Some Mexican northern and border cities such as Tijuana, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Chihuahua, Culiacán, Durango, and Juárez can be dangerous if you are not familiar with them, especially at night. Most crime in the northern cities is related to the drug trade and/or police corruption. However, since law enforcement figures are so overwhelmed or involved in the drug business themselves, many northern border towns that were previously somewhat dangerous to begin with are now a hotbed for criminals to act with impunity. Ciudad Juárez, in particular, bears the brunt of this violence, with nearly a fourth of Mexico's overall murders, and travel there should be undertaken only for very important reasons and with extreme caution.
Away from the northern states, cartel-related violence is centered in specific areas, including the Pacific Coast states of Michoacán and Guerrero. However, exercise caution in any major city, especially at night or in high crime areas.
Note that for the most part tourists and travelers are of no interest to the drug cartels. Many popular tourist destinations like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, Los Cabos, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Mérida and Guadalajara are largely unaffected by this, simply because there are no borders there. Ciudad Juárez is currently a primary battleground in the drug war, and while foreign travelers are not often targeted here, the presence of two warring cartels, many small opportunistic gangs, and armed police and soldiers has created a chaotic situation to say the least.
Although rarely surprising, the drug violence's new victim is Monterrey. The city at one point was crowned the safest city in Latin America, and the hard-working environment and entrepreneurial spirit was what defined the city for most Mexicans. Today, it has been the latest city to fall into the hands of the drug gangs, and deadly shootouts exist even in broad daylight. People have been kidnapped even in broad daylight in high-profile upscale hotels, and while the city is still not as awful as Ciudad Juarez, it is rapidly catching up.
Strangely, Mexico City is the safest city in regard to drug-related violence, and people go there to seek refuge from the border violence because many politicians and the military are there.
Consumption of drugs is not recommended while you are in Mexico because although possession of small amounts of all major narcotics has been decriminalized, consumption in public areas will get you a fine and will most likely get you in trouble with the police. The army also sets up random checkpoints throughout all major highways in search of narcotics and weapons. Drug consumption is also frowned upon by a large percentage of the population.
Since the current drug war began in 2006, there has been occasional wild speculation in the North American English-language media about the risk that Mexico could become a "failed state" controlled directly by one or more drug cartels, with the obvious corollary that U.S. citizens would have to be evacuated with U.S. military assistance (as actually occurred in Liberia in 1990, Sierra Leone in 1992, Albania in 1997, Lebanon in 2006, and Haiti in 2010). However, apart from the notorious exception of a single elite military unit that changed sides and became the Los Zetas cartel, the vast majority of Mexican military and police units continue to demonstrate their loyalty to the democratically elected government in Mexico City. As of 2012, only three state governments (out of 31 states) are thought to have been compromised by the cartels (according to the Los Angeles Times). Thus, the actual probability of an unexpected regime change occurring during your visit is extremely low and should not discourage you from visiting Mexico.
It is important to keep things in perspective. Tourists from certain developed nations may be frightened by the sight of heavily armed soldiers and police officers randomly searching vehicles on major boulevards, even in safe areas like Los Cabos and Cancun. But that is actually a common sight in most countries around the world, not just Mexico.
Advice for the Beach
Jellyfish stings: vinegar or mustard on the skin, take some to the beach with you.
Stingray stings: water as hot as you can bear - the heat deactivates the poison.
Sunburns: Bring sunscreen if going to beaches because you might not find it available in some areas.
Riptides: Very dangerous, particularly during and after storms. Try to swim parallel to the beach even as you are being dragged out; eventually the tide will let go of you and then you can swim back to shore. Do not tire yourself out by trying to swim to shore as the tide is pulling you out, as you will not have the energy to swim back to shore after the tide has let go of you.
Public transportation
When in major cities – especially Mexico City – is better to play it safe with taxis. The best options are to phone a taxi company, request that your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you or pick up a Taxi from an established post ("Taxi de Sitio"). Also taxis can be stopped in the middle of the street, which is OK for most of the country, but particularly unsafe in Mexico City.
As chaotic as it might be sometimes, the subway (Metro)[34] is the best way to move around in Mexico City: it's cheap (3 pesos for a ticket as of October, 2012), safe, has a large network covering almost anywhere you'd want to go in the city and it's extremely fast, compared to any on-street transportation, since it doesn't have to bear with the constant traffic jams. If you've never been in a crowded subway, avoid peak hours (usually from 06:00-09:00 and 17:00-20:00) and do your homework: check first what line (linea) and station (estacion) you want to go to and the address of the place you're trying to reach. Your hotel can give you this information, and maps of the subway system are available on the internet and at the stations. Most stations also have maps of the vicinity.
Avoid taking the subway at late hours of the night, but during the day many stations are patrolled by police officers and the subway is safer than taking the public bus, your major concern in the subway are pickpockets; so keep your important belongings and wallets in a safe place.
If your are travelling by bus do not put your valuables in your big bag in the storage room of the bus. If the police or the military controls the luggage they might take out what they need. Especially in Night Buses when passengers are most likely asleep. The use of a money belt (worn underneath the clothes and out of sight) is highly recommended.
If driving in from the USA, always purchase Mexican liability insurance (legal defense coverage recommended) before crossing the border or immediately after crossing. When you are paying for your temporary import permit (for going beyond border areas), often in the same building there are several stalls selling Mexican auto insurance. Even if your American (or Canadian, etc.) insurance covers your vehicle in Mexico, it cannot (by Mexican law) cover liability (i.e. hitting something or injuring someone). You will probably spend time in a Mexican jail if you have an accident without it. And even if your own insurance does (in theory) provide liability coverage in Mexico -- you'll be filing your claim from behind bars! Don't risk it, get Mexican auto insurance.
Never drive above the speed limit or run stop signs/red lights as Mexican police will use any excuse to pull over tourists and give you a ticket. If pulled over by a police officer soliciting a bribe, do not pay the amount requested, but pull out USD$50 or 500 pesos, and explain that it is all you have. This technique has worked in the past (but it does not work in Mexico City), but it is corruption. Corruption also is a crime in Mexico, so make a conscious choice. The fine for speeding could be as much as US$100, depending on the city.
As of April 2011, Police across the country are cracking down on drunken driving, particularly in Mexico City, the larger cities and the beach resorts. There are random checkpoints throughout the country in which every driver has to stop and take an automated inebriation test. If you fail, you will end up in a Mexican prison. If you wouldn't drive drunk back home, don't do it in Mexico.
You will mostly find beggars and windshield cleaners in some red lights; having your windows closed at all times is especially recommendable in some areas of Mexico City. The windshield cleaners will try to clean yours: a strong and firm "NO" is suggested.
Stay healthy
Some parts of Mexico are known for traveler's diarrhea that it is often called "Montezuma's Revenge" (Venganza de Moctezuma). The reason for this is not so much the spicy food but the contamination of the water supply in some of the poorer zones in Mexico. In most of the small towns that are less industrialized, only the poorest Mexicans will drink tap water. The best policy is to only drink bottled or purified water, both of which are readily available. Be sure to specify bottled water in restaurants and avoid ice (which is often not made from purified water). Just like in the USA, in most major Mexican cities the water is purified at the cities' water company. In most restaurants in these poor zones, the only water served comes from large jugs of purified water. If you get sick, visit your local clinic as soon as possible. There is medicine available that will counter the bacteria.
Medicine in urban areas is highly developed, public hospitals are just as good as public hospitals in US, and just as the American public hospitals, they are always full. It's recommended going to private hospitals for faster service.
Before traveling to rural areas of Mexico, it might be a good idea to obtain anti-malarial medications from your health care provider.
It is strongly advised that the traveler be sure that any meats they are consuming have been thoroughly cooked due to an increasing rate of roundworm infections, particularly in the Acapulco area.
Along with the risk for malaria, mosquitoes have also been known to carry the West Nile virus. Be sure to bring an effective insect repellent, preferably one that contains the ingredient DEET.
The rate of AIDS/HIV infection in Mexico is lower than in the US, France and most Latin American nations. However, if you plan on having sex, be sure that you use a latex condom to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus.
As with any western location, cases of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome have been reported throughout Mexico. This is an acute, rare (but often fatal) illness for which there is no known cure. The virus is believed to be present in animal feces, particularly feces from members of the rodent family. Therefore, do not wander into animal dens and be especially careful when entering enclosed spaces that are not well ventilated and lack sunlight.
Vaccination against Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid fever is recommended.
If you are bitten by an animal, assume that the animal was carrying rabies and seek medical attention immediately for treatment.
In remote areas, carry a first aid kit, aspirin, and other related items are sold without medical prescription.
Mexicans have a somewhat relaxed sense of time so be patient. Arriving 15 minutes late is common.
When anyone, even a total stranger, sneezes, you always say "¡salud!" ("bless you!" or more literally, "your health!"): otherwise, it is considered rude. In rural areas, particularly in the Mexican heartland (Jalisco, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, etc.), the even more pious "Jesús te bendiga" (May Jesus bless you) will follow a sneeze.
The great majority of the population is and traditionally has been Roman Catholic, and there is still a strong following of this faith among Mexicans from all socioeconomic backgrounds. However, missionary activity from the US made a sizable Protestant community, and even the smallest towns seem to have an Evangelical or Pentecostal church. One of the world's largest communities of Jehovah's Witnesses also resides in Mexico. Smaller communities, like Mormons and Jews also live in small concentrated areas throughout the Republic.
In many respects, Mexico is still a developing country, and attitudes towards LGBT travelers can at times be hostile. However, Mexico City legalized same-sex marriage and the supreme court ruled that these marriages must be recognized by all states in the rest of the republic, thus tacitly making same-sex marriage legal in the whole country (provided the wedding takes place in Mexico City). Just as it is not wholly accepted in the rural United States or rural Canada, it is not accepted in rural Mexico. But within cities, there is a much more relaxed atmosphere.
When entering churches, always take off any sunglasses, caps or hats. Wearing shorts is rarely a problem, but still wear a sweatshirt or sweater to your waist to avoid showing too much skin, which could be disrespectful in such places. However, away from the beaches, or northern areas, shorts are very rarely worn by Mexicans on the street and thus will attract more attention to you and make you stand out as a foreigner.
Respect Mexico's laws. Some foreigners feel that Mexico is a place where laws can be broken and the police bribed at all times. Corruption may be common among Mexican police and public figures, but since it is a problem that Mexican society has recently recognized and has been trying hard to fix, when foreign nationals behave in a manner which shows expectancy of this easy bribery, it is considered extremely disrespectful, and so it could be used as excuse for the police to give you "a respect lesson." Remember, offering a bribe to an official could get you into trouble.
Like in other countries; politics, economics and history are very delicate issues, yet in México they are also considered good conversation pieces when conversing with foreigners. Just like in Europe, Canada and the US, Mexico's democracy is vibrant and diverse, and people have a variety of opinions. As Mexico only recently became a true viable democracy, however, there is an eagerness on behalf of Mexicans to share their opinions and political ideas with you. Common sense applies like it does in your country: If you don't know enough about Mexico's political landscape, ask as many questions as you like but avoid making any strong statements.
Many US citizens (and to a lesser extent other foreigners) make careless mistakes in conversations with Mexicans. Mexicans, while strong and hardy people can be very sensitive people when it comes to their country. Avoid saying anything that will make it seem as if you think Mexico is inferior to your home country. Do not assume that because you are a US citizen, you are an immediate target for kidnapping, since the vast majority of victims are Mexicans. Do not be overly cautious, especially if you have hosts that are taking care of you and know where to go and not to go. It will just insult your host and they will assume you do not respect Mexico or that you do not trust them.
Avoid talking about Mexico's flaws. Avoid talking about illegal immigration to the US, the drug trade, or any other contentious issue; Mexicans are well aware of their country's problems and want to forget about them once a while. Instead, talk about the good things of Mexico: the food, the friendly people, the scenery. This will make you a very good friend in a country that can seem menacing to take on by yourself.
While overt racism may not be apparent, as a general rule, wealth and social status are historically tied to European ancestry and skin color. Mexican society is sharply divided by social class, with the rich, middle class, and poor often living very separate lives, and can have very distinct cultures. Social practices or tastes of one social group may not be shared by all classes. Clubs, bars, and restaurants may cater largely to one crowd or another, and a wealthier person or tourist may feel out of place or received unwanted attention in a working class cantina; a poor looking person may be blatantly refused service or get unfriendly stares at an exclusive establishment.
There are many words in the country according for ethnic background:
Do not be offended to be called a "güero(a)" (blonde) and its diminutive form "güerito(a)" (blondie), as its a common way for the average Mexican citizens to refer mostly to Caucasian people, including white Mexicans. The words "gringo" and its synonym "gabacho" are used regardless of the actual nationality of the tourists and should not they be taken as offensive nouns. Actually, they are often used as terms of affection.
If you are East Asian, you will be referred to as "Chino(a)" (Chinese) and its diminuitive form "chinito(a)" regardless of whether you are Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, Filipino, Korean, etc. Exceptions are in the capital, Mexicali, and in Monterrey, where a decent-sized Korean community does exist.
If you are black, "negro(a)" or "negrito(a)" may seem harsh, especially if you are from the US, but it is not a swear word. Although there are few black people in Mexico in many regions of the country (except in on the east and west coasts in the south), Mexicans, especially the younger generations, are not hateful. In fact, a revolutionary who later became the second president was a mulatto (a man of mixed European and African descent), Vicente Guerrero.
Historically, all Middle Easterners were refered to as "turcos" (even if they were from Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, etc).
If you try to use your Spanish to address people be careful about the use of "tu" (informal, friendly, and called tutear; which is a verb, to call someone "tu") and "usted" (formal, respectful) forms. Using "tu" can be demeaning to people, since this is the form normally used for addressing children or close friends. For foreigners, the best way to deal with the "tu" and "usted" problem is to address people using "usted" until invited to say "tu", or until addressed by the first name. Doing so will look perhaps a shade old-fashioned but always respectful, while doing otherwise can be pretty rude and embarrassing in some situations. Always use the "usted" form to a law enforcement officer (or other person of authority), even if he may use the "tu" form to talk to you.
Use "usted" unless the person is genuinely your friend, the person is under 16, or the person tells you explicitly to use "tu".
People address each other depending on their social status, age and frienship. To refer to a woman always call her "señorita" (Miss) unless you are sure that she is married, then you call her "señora" (Mrs). When talking to an older man use "señor" irrespective of his marital status. If you want to call a waiter address him as "joven" which means "young man". You may call someone by his professional tittle ("ingeniero", "arquitecto" "doctor" "oficial", etc). Actually Mexican people will use the "tu" and the "usted", "first name" or "surname" depending on their relationship, and the code is not easy to learn.
While the word "güey" is equivalent to "dude" or "mate" among young people, it is still considered extremely vulgar among people older than you. This abrasive term of endearment is used only between people who have achieved a certain level of trust so avoid using it.
In Mexico "estúpido" means far, far worse than "stupid" in English.
Due to the highly matriarchal nature of Mexican culture, the combination of words "tu madre" (your mother) is cacophonous and taken offensively by residents, regardless of age or gender. If you must use it, remember to replace it with "su señora madre" at formal situations or the sweeter "tu mamá" at informal ones. Never ever use strong language when talking to a female.
There is a strong degree of male courteousness towards women. This is manifested in standing up when a lady enters a room, opening or holding a door, conceding preference or rights of way, giving up a seat, offering a hand when stepping down from a steep step, etc. It is generally reserved for older women, or females of great power, merit and social stature. Rejecting these types of friendly gestures is considered arrogant or rude.
You can call from public phones using prepaid tel. cards tarjetas ladatel, bought at magazine stalls. Cards can be purchased in 30, 50 or 100 pesos denominations. The rate to call the US is roughly equivalent to $0.50 US per minute. Beware these are different than tarjetas amigo, viva, or unefon: they are for cellphones.
Some areas have only a few internet cafes; in others, they are plentiful. Common fees vary from 7 pesos/hour to 20 pesos/hour. Currently, most of the internet cafes offer calls to the US for a better rate than a payphone, usually via VoIP.
If you have an unlocked GSM phone, you can buy a prepaid SIM card in Mexico and have a local mobile phone number for use in cases of emergency. ROAMFREE Mobile provides free travel phones with good coverage throughout the country and you can get a SIM card for $150 pesos with $100 pesos talk time, look them up on the Internet before you leave. If you have an iPhone, you should purchase a package of data with ROAMFREE Mobile, as pay-as-you-go internet is extremely expensive. [35]
It is often far cheaper than what hotels will charge you and incoming calls may also be free under certain schemes. Mexico operates on the same GSM frequency as the United States, 1900 Mhz. There is an Internet wireless connection in almost every restaurant or hotel in the big cities.
Get out
To Belize
There are bus services available from Chetumal to Belmopan.
To Guatemala
Over Tenosique, La Palma, by boat on the river Rio San Pedro to Naranja (Guatemala). This route is not used by many and still has a touch of adventure. Stay firm when negotiating over the price. Absolutely important! Make sure you get your passport stamped before you leave Naranja or you might catch one of the rare buses back and take a walk through the jungle as the emigrations office is part up the river between the Mexican border and the village.
To the United States of America
The U.S. generally requires a passport for entry. A few express ID cards and trusted traveler cards are also acceptable. U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry or reentry by land or sea may use an Enhanced Driver License in place of a passport. U.S. permanent residents need their permanent resident card and may need the passport from their home country.
Foreign nationals entering the United States without a permanent resident stamp, including those on the Visa Waiver Program, typically receive an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or I-94W Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record upon arrival in the United States. So long as the I-94 has not expired, you can use it to reenter the United States with your passport; however, if you hand it in upon exit, you will need to obtain a new card if your visa allows another entry or, if on the Visa Waiver Program, pay a fee of about $6 to reenter the United States.
Unless you are not going to return to the United States, keep your I-94 when leaving the United States of America or you will have a difficult time getting back in, and if your visa is limited to a certain number of entries, you may need to use another entry.
Visa Waiver participants cannot reset the 90-day counter unless they leave the Western Hemisphere, so ducking into México will not allow you another 90 days.


text:
A listing of therapists, counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists in New Jersey, USA interested in providing culturally sensitive cross-cultural care for today's international expat community.
Kevin J. Fleming, Ph.D.
Location: New Jersey, USA (and worldwide: travels to client countries)*
* Grey Matters International is a "one stop shop" global psychological consulting firm that leverages powerful neuroscience technologies and methods for ex-pats and their families. We work in a 'we come to you' fashion and can help all your personal,relationship and family/children mental health needs quickly and effectively.
Phone: 1-877-606-6161 (if calling from outside USA: 1-918-949-1972)
Email: email@example.com
Website: www.greymattersintl.com
Nationality: USA
Languages Spoken: English
Religious Affiliation: Open to All Religious/Spiritual Orientations
Clinical Specialties: Mood disorders, stress/burnout, relationship conflict, addiction, OCD, ADD/ADHD, brain injury, trauma, sleep concerns, high performance and career counseling
Cross-Cultural Experience: Worked with clients on 5 continents on their private mental health needs and have advised many multi-cultural "professionals, executives, leaders" on their culture change needs affecting many employees and their unique values

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Ocean Rodeo is hitting the road!
From April 20th through May 5th we will be travelling through the great states of Florida and Texas with all the latest kit, including the pictured Prodigy kite (piloted by team rider Mark Moore). Expect us in Florida for the last 10 days of April and you can also come see us at Kite Round-Up in South Padre Island, Texas from May 2-5!
Stay tuned to the Facebook event page and our main Facebook page for details as they become available. Like any good kite demo tour, we'll be chasing the wind to the best spots to make sure we maximize demo time and stoke.
Want us to hit your beach? Shoot us a message and we'll do our best! Email us at salesAToceanrodeo.com or send us a Facebook message to get in touch.
Come try some gear and get yourself a prized OR trucker hat!
~ OR Crew


text:
The 1997 season brought a confession from Cal Ripken. It came in Oakland before an early August game, and it illustrated just how deeply the dents had begun to form in baseball's Iron Man.
"He told me, 'I can play like this for one more month. I don't think I can play with this for three more months,' " recalled outfielder Brady Anderson, Ripken's best friend on the team. "But he grinded it out."
Ripken's back flared up while charging a slow roller by Oakland's Scott Brosius in the first inning. He stayed in the game, collecting a single in his next at-bat, and homered the following day as his condition steadily improved. But it was a sign of trouble to come.
Anderson had a similar discussion with Ripken in Baltimore. "He told me he didn't think he was going to be able to play," Anderson said. "I go, 'Come on, man, you've got to play. Just go out there, see what happens. If it hurts, you come out.' He said, 'All right, I'll play today, but if I have to come out early I'm not going to keep the streak alive coming out early. I won't do it.'
"He played in I don't know how many hundreds of games after that."
There were other changes besides Ripken's health.
He moved to third base on a permanent basis after the Orioles signed Mike Bordick as a free agent. After the Opening Day game, the Orioles announced that Ripken had agreed to a two-year contract extension with an option for the 2000 season. He batted .270 with 17 homers and 84 RBIs while again playing every day.
Rest didn't come to Ripken without an argument. Plate umpire Al Clark ejected him in the second inning of a July 20 game for disputing a called third strike.
Ripken homered in a May 31 game against Cleveland, breaking a tie with Brooks Robinson for the Orioles' all-time lead in total bases with 4,274. He also hit his 500th career double June 22.
Ripken also started his 14th consecutive All-Star Game, but his first as a third baseman. He went 1-for-2 at Cleveland's Jacobs Field.
Having settled for a wild-card berth in 1996, Ripken and the Orioles went wire-to-wire to win the AL East. They got past Seattle in the Division Series, with Ripken batting .438, to again reach the American League Championship Series, but were beaten by the Cleveland Indians in six games. Ripken batted .348. It would be his last playoff appearance.
Year G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI Avg.
1997 162 615 79 166 30 0 17 84 .270


text:
All issues pertaining to the message board need to be sent to firstname.lastname@example.com. Please allow 24 hours for response. If you feel a post is in violation of board rules, please click on the upside down triangle with the ! located beside each post.
Thank you,
Sara Patterson
ASAP Program Committee Chair
ASAP Board of Directors


text:
Charges are expected in Morgan County against four suspects in several area burglaries.
From June 16-June 24, the Morgan County Sheriff's Office took several reports of burglaries in the northern portion of Morgan County. The burglaries took place in the overnight hours and specifically targeted Mennonite-owned businesses.
Charges are expected in Morgan County against four suspects in several area burglaries.
From June 16-24, the Morgan County Sheriff's Office took several reports of burglaries in the northern portion of Morgan County. The burglaries took place in the overnight hours, and specifically targeted Mennonite-owned businesses.
Acting on information obtained during the investigation of the burglaries, Morgan County detectives searched a residence at 503 N. Oak St. in Stover on June 26 where several items reported as stolen were recovered including two firearms. Further investigation at the scene revealed other items that were believed to be stolen from other jurisdictions.
After contacting law enforcement in multiple other counties in reference to the property recovered from the residence, detectives now believe that the subjects are responsible for at least 25 burglaries in several counties including Morgan.
According to other counties contacted, all the burglaries in their areas also occurred at Mennonite-owned businesses.
To date four subjects have been booked into the Morgan County Sheriff's Office with charges expected.
The investigation is continuing with further arrests expected.
In the last two weeks, the Morgan County Sheriff's blotter reflects 13 reports of burglary and seven cases of theft without breaking and entering.
The blotter report showed a burglary at Zimmerman Tractor on Highway 5 in Versailles on June 19, another burglary in Versailles June 21 and one on June 23 on Hwy. K, Versailles.
Three reports of breaking and entering were made on June 24 in the Highway C and Kelsay Rd. areas of Barnett, north of Versailles. These burglaries were reported at Cedar Valley Chimes, Dutch Country Store and Countryside Plants. Another burglary was reported June 24 on Gracey Creek Rd., Versailles.
A burglary was reported June 25 on Angel Rd. in Fortuna.
On June 26, four more burglaries were reported on Proctor Rd., Stover, and on Highway C, Gracey Creek Rd. and Highway TT, Versailles. The 10th report of breaking and entering came on June 27 from a resident on Oak St. in Stover.
A theft report was made June 17 on Smith Creek Rd., Versailles, and on Fox Hills Rd., Stover, on June 20.
On June 24, MFA Oil on Highway 52, Barnett, reported a theft. Two larceny cases came out of the Stover area on June 24 as well. These cases occurred on Peach Tree Rd. and Clearwater Rd.
Theft was reported on Highway TT in Versailles on June 25, and on June 26, a theft was reported on Whispering Timbers in the Stover area.


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While the emergence of building information modeling is no doubt providing huge advantages in cost and time savings on all types of projects, perhaps no other building type stands to benefit more from BIM than healthcare facilities, where cost and schedule are crucial and where quality control can literally be a matter of life and death.
"BIM is a perfect fit for healthcare because of the complex nature of these buildings, the repetitiveness of the activity within the building, and the need to really nail process," says Dan Noble, FAIA, FACHA, principal and director of design with HKS, Dallas, which has used Autodesk's Revit BIM software on a number of healthcare projects, including the Capital Health System replacement hospital and medical office building in Hopewell, N.J., and the new Boca Raton (Fla.) Community Hospital. "Having a fully integrated BIM model allows us to simulate process and material distribution, patient and staff flow, and M/E/P activities—and how all that interrelates."
By modeling healthcare projects, the early adopters of BIM are seeing reduced project costs, shortened schedules, and increased project quality. The biggest gains are the result of improved coordination of ultra-complex building systems and the ability for real-time visualization with Building Team members and clients, says Jens Mammen, principal and Health Studio leader in the Chicago office of SmithGroup.
"An office building may have four moving parts, whereas a hospital will have 50 or 100 moving parts," says Mammen, who has worked on several BIM-designed hospitals, including the Comer Center for Children and Specialty Care at the University of Chicago Hospitals. There, the architectural team collaborated with the structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers to create an integrated BIM model to map out the complex building systems design.
The process not only shortened the design schedule, but also reduced interferences between M/E and structural systems, all but eliminating costly change orders and reducing the construction schedule. The design team had just six RFIs during bidding, compared to hundreds using traditional 2-D coordination, according to Mammen.
A similar approach is being employed by DPR Construction, Redwood City, Calif., for the 250,000-sf Camino Medical Group medical office building currently under construction in Mountain View, Calif. DPR is using JetStream from NavisWorks to integrate disparate 2-D and 3-D design models from the HVAC contractor, plumbing engineer, fire protection engineer, and electrical contractor.
"We've had zero requests for information and changes having to do with the M/E systems overhead, where normally on a project of this size we'd have hundreds of RFIs," says Dean Reed, DPR's coordinator of lean/virtual building. The four major subs are co-located on the job site with the architect and DPR, where they can work through design and construction issues in real time using the integrated BIM model.
"We're getting all the problems resolved before the field crews go out there to do the work," says Reed. The team is expecting a 20% reduction in M/E/P and fire-protection labor costs as a result of fewer incidents of interference and the ability to prefabricate many of the building systems.
Seattle-based NBBJ is so convinced of the benefits of this type of real-time BIM collaboration on the job site that it's starting to install large flat-screen monitors in construction site trailers so Building Teams can more easily collaborate on BIM models created in the TriForma Extension of MicroStation, from Bentley Systems. The firm is currently employing this "BIM war room" approach on a 251,000-sf inpatient expansion building at the Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
"Rather than using 2-D drawings, we're coordinating construction and working on conflict management in real time on the site using the BIM model," says Richard Dallam, partner-in-charge of NBBJ's healthcare practice. Even though some team members may be working in the field office while others are working on the phone or online, Dallam says "issues become apparent very quickly when everyone is working together in one integrated model."
Creating a clear vision
Of course, the benefits of real-time 3-D coordination and visualization go well beyond working out design and construction issues within the Building Team.
Progressive teams are using the power of BIM to more effectively communicate a project's program requirements and design intent with hospital administrators and staff. BIM allows design teams to create interactive 3-D walkthroughs, virtual prototypes, spatial planning diagrams, and even play out multiple "what if" scenarios for clients.
"The biggest differentiator of BIM is the ability to manipulate a room in front of a user group," says Mammen. "A nurse might ask, 'If we move the tower column over in this direction, can I still see the patient's head from the nursing unit?' If you've built the model right, with a couple of key strokes and manipulations, you can spin the model around to check for alignment."
On the Comer Children's Hospital project, for instance, hospital staff members were presented with a BIM model walkthrough of the trauma rooms to test for clearances and mobility. "We were able to quickly tweak clearances of the equipment and the location of windows from a small control station in the trauma room right on the spot," says Mammen. "It was very effective."
For its 500,000-sf Providence Park Hospital project in Novi, Mich., NBBJ created 3-D prototypes of typical patient room design options to help work through issues related to placing the bathrooms inboard versus outboard. There were a host of competing concerns, says Dallam, including sightlines for the patient and nursing staff, the impact on natural light and space in the room for family, and potential impact on the exterior design. Multiple renderings were produced to demonstrate the spatial relationships of the different configurations, helping the client to understand the impact of their decisions on the room, corridor, and exterior.
To help clients appreciate the impact of design decisions related to major medical equipment, such as MRI machines, architects in the Minneapolis office of Omaha-based Leo A Daly are using Revit to create animated simulations of treatment rooms. The interactive 3-D prototypes simulate the complex machines down to the finest detail—even the movement of the MRI magnet—allowing users to visualize the impact of machine positioning on the overall design and functionality of the room.
"I would not start modeling every piece of equipment in detail," says Elizabeth Niedzwiecki, VP and director of healthcare for Leo A Daly's Atlanta office. "But some of these expensive, intricate devices, like MRIs, are important to model because they are so crucial to healthcare operations."
Dallam sees huge potential for BIM with regard to medical equipment planning.
"On a typical hospital project, we may go through two or three upgrade cycles on medical equipment between design and construction," he says. As a result, design teams are constantly revising design drawings to accommodate the latest specification data on equipment. Upgrading equipment specs is "a big, frustrating issue in healthcare design," says Dallam.
To address this issue, NBBJ is using BIM to set up a flexible infrastructure that allows the team to defer such decisions till the last possible moment, as opposed to re-specifying equipment multiple times. For example, at Seattle's Swedish Orthopedic Institute, the design team used BIM to model permanent structural framework for the attachment of overhead medical equipment in the ceiling space above each operating room. Rather than "tuning" this framework to a specific piece of equipment, it is modeled to anticipate a wide range of conditions; this makes it possible to defer decisions on equipment without having to alter the permanent structure by adding other structural elements.
"The electrical, mechanical, and data systems are sized to support a range of anticipated loads for the building, and the routing of these services is coordinated with the permanent, flexible structural equipment framework," says Dallam. "It's much easier and cheaper to route these systems to the medical equipment than it is to modify the structure that supports the medical equipment."
Entering the fourth dimension
Parametric modeling can also provide a clearer vision of construction phasing for both the Building Team and the client. This is especially crucial for healthcare projects that involve renovations and additions to existing facilities and campuses that must remain fully operational during construction.
By adding a fourth dimension—time—to the BIM model, teams can better plan for construction sequencing, materials and equipment staging, and temporary egress to the existing facilities.
"With parametric modeling, you call literally screenplay the entire construction project before you even dig a hole," says Niedzwiecki. "Four-D modeling is not only about constructability in terms of making sure the contractor can phase things properly, it's also about conveying to the client that they'll stay operational through construction."
By including hospital administrators and staff in the 4-D modeling process, conflicts between construction and operations can be easily pinpointed, says Jim Jacobi, PE, CIO and principal with Houston-based structural engineer Walter P Moore. He recalls how 4-D modeling paid off big on a hospital project for one of his colleagues.
"The design team was showing the hospital staff a sequencing model of the entire construction progress, from the floor plates going up, the steel being set, and the cranes moving around," says Jacobi. "During one of the sequences, a staff member noticed that the boom of the crane would interfere with the flight path of the hospital's medical helicopter. Based on that feedback, the contractors shifted the process a bit and the problem was solved with no impact to the cost or schedule. Those types of tangible issues are hard to see with a pile of 2-D drawings."
Looking ahead, some BIM experts envision its application in the facility management side of healthcare, helping hospital administrators with space management, planned equipment upgrades, future additions/renovations, and tracking building systems.
Dallam says the technology is available, but it would require a considerable investment in time and labor, and the demand just isn't there yet.
"The difference between the BIM model and the finished building is like the difference between traditional design drawings and as-builts," says Dallam. "I don't know anyone who has gone back and attempted to revise their BIM model based on what was built. It would be a complicated, time-consuming task."
Coordinating distribution of M/E/P, structural, and medical-related equipment and systems
Providing real-time visualization of design and program concepts
Enabling just-in-time design for medical equipment and systems
Improving planning of construction sequencing, equipment/materials staging, and temporary egress


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Rosborough Gives Wabash 2-1 Win at Andersonby Brent Harris • September 1, 2010 Share:
Phil Rosborough's goal with three minutes left in the match lifted Wabash to a 2-1 victory at Anderson Wednesday evening in the 2010 season opener for the Wabash soccer team.
Dylan Andrew found Rosborough (left) crossing in front of the goal in the closing minutes of the match. Andrew's pass gave Rosborough the perfect opportunity to beat Anderson's goalkeeper for the go-ahead goal.
Senior Mark Babcock scored the first goal of the season for the Little Giants on a penalty kick after forward Femi Oluyedun was fouled inside the penalty box. Babock, who was a perfect 4-for-4 in penalty kicks last season, drilled his attempt home to give Wabash the 1-0 lead.
"Our first half was 'so-so'," head coach Roberto Giannini said. "We had four or five good chances to score, but we couldn't put the ball in the net. The second half we came back really more organized. We changed the system a little bit.
"We really only made one mistake in the back, but that Anderson took advantage for the game-tying goal. The good thing was our guys wanted to win. We came out aggressively and had two or three chances to score. Finally Dylan made a beautiful assist to Phil on a nice cut across the box for the game-winning goal."
The Ravens answered with a second half goal to even the score at 1-1.
"I'm happy about the win," Giannini said. "I'm happy about the heart the team showed after Anderson tied the score. A couple of combinations we executed in front of the box are a reflection of what we've practiced for the last two weeks. Nonetheless we still have some work to do. Now we move on to the weekend."
Freshman Ian MacDougall made two saves in his first career start in goal. The Little Giants outshot Anderson 12-6, putting five shots on net compared to three for the Ravens. Allan Swan and Femi Oluyedun joined Andrew, Babcock, and Rosborough with shots on goal for Wabash.
Wabash (1-0) will play host to the first Robbie Dreher Memorial Soccer Classic this weekend at Mud Hollow Field. The Little Giants will play Spalding in the first match Saturday at 2 p.m. Wabash takes on Maryville of Tennessee Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m.
Prior to Saturday's match the Little Giants will conduct a free youth soccer clinic at noon. Twenty spots are still open for any child who would play in U-9 (7-9 years old) and older in an upcoming fall league. To reserve a spot in the clinic, contact Michele Humphreys at 765-376-6340 or by email at firstname.lastname@example.com before Friday afternoon.
Photos by Susan Albrecht.


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posted 10 days ago
Thank you so much for going above and beyond to fix this small issue with my order. With customers service like this I have no doubt PetPlanet business will flourish. KiKi loved her toys and service was best I've experienced in a long time,I will do all my pet shopping here in future. Thanks againposted 10 days ago
Thank you very much for your message, & apologies for my delay in replying to you. I very much appreciate your prompt attention regarding a replacement Splash Pool - I have already received notification that this will be delivered tomorrow. Your Customer Service is indeed excellent !posted 10 days ago


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Opinion: Trump's travel ban is a detailed policy designed to keep all Americans safe
EDITOR'S NOTE: Boris Epshteyn formerly served as a Senior Advisor to the Trump Campaign and served in the White House as Special Assistant to The President and Assistant Communications Director for Surrogate Operations.
WASHINGTON (Sinclair Broadcast Group) - Remember all of the hand-wringing over the Trump administration's travel ban? Well, the ban was allowed to stand, was put into action and has expired. Contrary to what some predicted, the sun still continues to rise every morning
The ban was a 90-day pause on travel from six countries.
It was put in place in order to allow the administration the time it deemed necessary to develop proper vetting procedures so our government could know who is coming into our country.
After evaluating nearly 200 countries, the administration found eight that were unable to meet the new vetting procedures.
Standards as to Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, and Somalia were either modified, maintained or eased.
Added to the list - North Korea, Chad and Venezuela
Sudan - which was included in the expired ban - has been removed.
The key to understand: the new policy is not a blanket ban and it is not indefinite.
The policy is detailed and very much nation specific. For instance, students from Venezuela and Iran can gain entry to the U.S. with additional screening.
It also allows all nations the opportunity to comply with the new U.S. guidelines and have all restrictions lifted.
Here's the bottom line: we trust our government to protect us. While many took time to complain and protest this administration doing exactly that, President Trump and his team went to work. That work has resulted in a nuanced approach to restricting travel to the U.S. which is directed only at those who threaten our safety.


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Jadwal Tes CBT EPS-TOPIK Korea 2013 untuk Indonesia | BNP2TKI - HRD KoreaAccording to the MOU on the Sending of Workers between the Ministry of Employment and Labor of the Republic of Korea (MOEL) and the Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration of Indonesia(MMT), EPS Test of Proficiency in Korean (EPS-TOPIK, CBT) will be conducted as follows.
All job seekers who want to work in Korea under the Employment Permit System should pass the EPS-TOPIK, implemented by the Human Resources Development Service of Korea (HRD Korea) authorized by MOEL, and only those who passed the test are allowed to submit the job application form for EPS.
February, 2013
- Held by: Ministry of Employment and Labor in the Republic of Korea (MOEL)
- Implemented by: Human Resources Development service of Korea
- Cooperated by: Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration of the Indonesia National Board of Placement and Protection Indonesian Overseas Workers
- Test Schedule
Test Date: 02.25~03.15, 2013
○ Morning (the first division, 30persons)
- Orientation: 08:30~09:30, - Test time: 09:30~10:40
○ Morning (the second division, 30persons)
- Orientation: 10:50~11:50, - Test time: 11:50~13:00
All examinees must be in the test room before the orientation time.
- (Allowed) Type of Industry: Fishing.
- The (expected) number of passers : To be announced
The number of passer will be announced later separately in the order of the high scores among the applicants who scored more than 80 points out of 200 for each industry.
- Test Place and date Announcement
- Test Place : CBT(Computer Based Test) Examination Room
- Announcement of Test Result and passers
- website of EPS-TOPIK(http;//www.epstopik.hrdkorea.or.kr)
- the notice board of BNP2TKI
- Website of the Employment Permit System (http://www.eps.go.kr)
- Qualifications
- Persons aged between 18 and 39
- Persons who have not been convicted of imprisonment or heavier punishment
- Persons who have no record of deportation or departure orders from the Republic of Korea
- Persons who are not restricted from departure of home country
- Registration procedure
- Period of Registration:
- February 6~ 8, 2013 (For 3 days)
- Registration Places: National Board of Placement and Protection Indonesian Overseas Workers (NBPPIOW)
- Registration method: Individual visit registration
- Required documents
- Application form (Free distribution at registration places, only to the applicants
who paid the test fee)
Registration numbers are written on each application form, and one applicant can receive and submit one application form. If there is any error in an application form, correct it with correction fluid or tape and submit it.
- A copy of passport (or ID card)
- 2 photographs of 3.5 x 4.5cm (taken within 6 months)
- Application form (Free distribution at registration places, only to the applicants
- February 6~ 8, 2013 (For 3 days)
- Test Fee
- Test Fee: 24 USD
If an applicant who has avoidable reasons cancel his/her registration during registration period, the applicant can get full refund. (However, re-application after cancellation is not allowed)
- Matters to be aware of
Those who have applied for CBT EPS-TOPIK this time can not apply for the next EPS-TOPIK.(CBT, PBT) in this year.
- Test Fee: 24 USD
- Period of Registration:
Questions will be selected both from the open question book and from the newly developed closed questions. Test Structure & Allotment of Scores and passing standardView details: HRD Korea
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ).
- R/C and L/C will be implemented continuously without a break.
Korean Language Test Results 2013
- Bangladesh
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Kyrgyztan
- Mongolia
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Sri-Lanka
- Thailand
- Timor Leste
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
Korean Language Test Schedule


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Developed by reknown wildlife photographer Moose Peterson and Hoya, the Moose filter overcomes the problem of vignetting when an 81A filter is stacked with a Polariser - particularly when used on wide angle lenses.
An 81A filter is often used in conjunction with a Circular Polariser to bring the colour temperature closer to the Daylight setting for film and digital sensors.
The glass component of the Moose is made from 81A glass, thereby building in the warming effect without the disadvantage of the extra thickness of a separate filter
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NWSB Insider and Oregon Ducks blogger Bryant Knox weighs in with some new faces to introduce you to who will be playing in Eugene in 2012. Chip Kelly has some new toys. Byron Marshall, Dwayne Stanford II, Evan Baylis, Arik Armstead, DeForest Buckner welcome to U of O. With the departure of LaMichael James, Darron Thomas, David Paulson, and transfer of Tra Carson, the Ducks find themselves a little shallow.
Oregon Ducks football: Five new players to know in 2012
May 23, 2012 By


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Today is a big day.
Today, Lulu officially launched the Lulu EPUB Converter and Ebook Creator Guide – thus helping to simplify the complex process of turning your brilliant work from popular word processing formats, such as a Word document, into sellable EPUBs, the most widely adopted format used by eReaders – absolutely free.
So how is it different?
The Lulu EPUB Converter is unique in that it not only converts but also automatically fixes many pesky errors including accepted fonts and extra spacing. This is the highest level of automation available anywhere.
What does this mean for you?
For you, oh faithful Lulu creator, this means getting your work into popular eBook retail channels is easier and just in time to give you an edge this holiday season and sell your remarkable works electronically while earning more on eBooks than anywhere else with our new industry-best 90/10 revenue split.
As part of this initiative, Lulu has secured partnerships with Apple and Barnes and Noble so you can sell your works to millions of readers on devices like the iPad® and NOOK™, not to mention in print on Amazon.com and the Lulu Marketplace. We've even added a new Manage Distribution page that lets you opt-in and opt-out of retail channels for all your titles with the click of a button.
With our step-by-step eBook Creator Guide, you can be sure your customers are getting the most robust experience reading your work too. All of these new tools, resources, and features can be found on Lulu's new eBook Landing page – your source for all things eBooks.
Don't forget to explore all your print book options too, and publish the way you, and your readers, want this holiday.


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Hi Guys,
I wanted to write to say Thanks for the help... I'm finally up and running and you guys ROCK!!
(I just don't understand why the system wont pickup <?php include ?> tags within an html page but I can live with that I guess )
BTW, If anyone ever comes up with a solution for this, please do let me know...
Until then I thank you all for your EXCELLENT HELP!!
Take Care,
Stuart K


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In an effort to add significant scale, Tribune Co. inked a $2.73 billion transaction on Monday to acquire 19 television stations in 16 key markets from privately held Local TV Holdings.
Continue Reading Below
The acquisition makes Tribune, which emerged from a prolonged bankruptcy at the end of 2012, the largest U.S. commercial TV station owner, with 42 stations from 23 previously. Most of those stations are in the top two spots in their respective markets.
"This is a transformational acquisition for Tribune -- it makes us the #1 local TV affiliate group in America, expands the distribution platform for our high-quality video content, and extends the reach of our digital products to new audiences across the country," Tribune CEO Peter Liguori said in a statement.
By sealing the Local TV deal, Tribune beat out a number of other potential bidders, including Sinclair Broadcast Group (NASDAQ:SBGI) and Meredith (NYSE:MDP).
In addition to a slew of local TV stations, Tribune already owns the WGN America superstation, Tribune Studios and eight major market newspapers, including the Chicago Tribune and Los Angeles Times.
"My management team will dearly miss working with some of the most talented and dedicated people in broadcasting, but we know we leave our employees in good hands," said Bobby Lawrence, Local TV's CEO.
The acquisition of Local TV is expected to generate more than $100 million in annual synergies within five years of closing. Including synergies and tax implications, Tribune said the effective purchase price multiple is about seven times the average 2011 and 2012 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
To pay for the deal, Tribune said it expects to use a combination of debt financing and an undisclosed portion of cash on hand.
Tribune said it has received committed financing of up to $4.1 billion from J.P. Morgan Chase (NYSE:JPM), Bank of America Merrill Lynch (NYSE:BAC), Citigroup (NYSE:C), Deutsche Bank (NYSE:DB) and Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS). This includes a new $300 million revolving credit facility that will allow Tribune to refinance existing debt.
The deal, which is subject to antitrust and Federal Communications Commission approval, is expected to close by the end of 2013.
Tribune was advised by Guggenheim Securities, while Local TV's bankers were Moelis & Co., Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC) and Deutsche Bank. Local TV is owned by private-equity firm Oak Hill Capital Partners.