Campus Guadalajara
Student Handbook and Guide
1 Index
1. Welcome
2. Getting to Mexico a. Coming from the airport b. Coming from the bus station c. Check list d. What to bring e. Luggage f. Housing
3. Official Procedures a. Visa b. Insurance c. Driver’s License d. Bank Information
4. Communications a. Mail b. Telephone c. Cell Phones
5. About Mexico a. Life b. People c. Hospitality d. Weather e. Religion f. Holidays g. Money/Expenses h. Greetings i. Tipping j. Bargaining k. Annual Events
6. About Guadalajara a. Safety b. Superstores c. Convenience Stores d. Malls e. Markets
2 f. Cinema g. Theatre h. Museums i. Restaurants j. Traditional Food k. Sports Events l. Concerts
7. Getting Around a. City Layout b. Asking for directions c. City Bus d. Taxi Cabs e. Subway f. Expreso Tec
8. TEC Campus Guadalajara a. How to get to Tec Campus Guadalajara b. International Programs Office c. Campus facilities d. Offices e. Cultural activities f. Sports activities g. Eating
9. Tourism and Travel a. Places to visit b. By Bus c. By Airplane
3 Welcome
Dear International Student,
The purpose of this handbook is to provide you with general information about your stay in Guadalajara, Mexico and the ITESM University (also known as Tec de Monterrey, or just Tec).
You will find not only information about school procedures and regulations, but also general tips for adapting to the Mexican culture and the city’s customs. You will find tips about how to travel throughout the city, how to understand people and deal with them, and where to go if you need help. You will learn about places to visit, Mexican holidays, weather, safety tips, etc.
First, we suggest you to take an overall look at the handbook so you know what info you may find in it. It is better to read it completely before you get to Mexico since you will find tips about the preparation for your journey and you can also get an idea of what you will have to deal with in the near future. If you are already in Mexico, it will help you adapt faster to the city, and also give you ideas for your everyday life. After you read it, keep it as a reference in case you come across a situation in which the handbook can prove useful (a trip, school procedures, places to hangout, etc.). In addition to this handbook, remember you can always count with the International Programs Office staff in case you need help.
Remember to keep an open mind during your stay in Mexico, since this is the best way of learning the most about new cultures. Be respectful to people and you will always find a helping hand around here.
Good luck in your new adventure! Sincerely,
International Programs Office Staff
4 Getting to Mexico
Remember you must attend the Orientation Week
Coming from the airport
If you chose the Home Stay Program as your housing option, a member of your host family will go welcome you at the airport.
Taxi
Otherwise, the fastest way to come from the airport is by taxi, although it can be a little expensive since it is located 16 kilometres from the city of Guadalajara. The transfer time from the centre of Guadalajara to the terminal is 35 minutes approximately. If you decide on this option, remember to buy the ticket at the taxi stands inside the airport. They are located both at the national and international arrivals exits. The approximate rates for a car (up to 4 persons) are:
Airport to TEC, rate is approx. $350 (south to north) pesos Airport to Midtown rate is approx. $280 pesos
Bus
Rates: from 7 to 12 pesos, according to the type of bus you take. These buses pass each half hour in front of the airport.
An alternative option can be "Shuttle Gdl". This company offers shared ground transportation from the Airport to the Minerva area. The approximate rate for a one-way trip is $90.00 pesos per person. From the airport, shuttles depart every 30 minutes from 5:00 am to 00:30 am From the Minerva area, shuttles depart every 30 minutes from 4:30 am to 00:00 am The meeting point at the airport is located at the national arrivals exit, beside the restaurant “Wings”. The meeting point at the Minerva area is located in Av. López Mateos Norte #337, intersection with Av. México, beside a radio station.
Coming from the bus station
The best option is to request a taxi cab or an Uber.
5
Checklist
Do not forget Passport & visa Letters of acceptance from the school Home/hotel/residence hall/family address and phone number School phone number Personal Items
What to Bring
Clothes
June – September Light clothes, an umbrella or raincoat.
December – March Sweaters and jackets.
The rest of the months have a perfect weather, not too hot, not too cold.
Items
Laptop – If you have one (there is Wi-Fi all around campus)
Electricity adapter (110 V) – If you don’t have an adapter, you can buy it in Guadalajara at Wall-Mart, Steren, or Radio Shack.
Traditional items from your home country – If you’re taking a Spanish course, since there will be a project involving them.
Luggage
We suggest you verify with the airline the allowed number of baggage, weight and dimensions in order to avoid paying overweight – believe us, you’ll want to bring lots of souvenirs back home.
6 Housing
Housing in Guadalajara is not as difficult as some may think. You just need to be aware of certain aspects in which to base your decision when choosing a place to live.
We offer two different options for housing international students: 1. The Home Stay Program. 2. Student dorms inside the Campus or off Campus (just in front).
Otherwise, you’ll have to look for housing on your own.
Home Stay Program
It is designed for students who wish to stay within hosts that have met the requirements of the International Programs Office and share their customs and values. It is also the most convenient option for practicing your Spanish.
To find out more about this program, please contact: [email protected]
Residence Hall
Tec de Monterrey Campus Guadalajara, offers student dorms (called “Residencias”).
You can choose to pay one semester or a year at an acceptable price. If you decide to cancel the contract after being enrolled to Residencias, you will have to pay a fine.
ATTENTION: There are some important regulations that you must be aware of before applying to the Residence Hall:
1. It is forbidden to introduce alcohol or drugs even inside the rooms (except for cigarettes, but you cannot smoke indoors), 2. Or entering the building under the effects of any drugs or in a state of inebriation. You may get a misbehaviour report, and if you get two of these you may be expelled from the residence hall. 3. Men and women are separated into two buildings and there is always a person guarding the entrance, as well as security cameras inside the elevators and in the hallways – it is not allowed to introduce people of opposite genders to your room.
If you can deal with these rules you can have a comfortable stay at the Residence Hall. If not, we suggest you look for housing outside of campus.
7
To check prices, enrolment process, regulations, and more information, please check out the Residence Hall web page at: http://www.gda.itesm.mx/residencias/
Self-housing
Because of the closeness to TEC and its security, we suggest finding a place in zones 1, 4 and 5 (follow the link on the map). TEC is located in zone 5, and most of the city’s cool day and nightlife happen in these three zones.
8 We strongly recommend you NOT to live near downtown NOR the Chapultepec area, since the ride can last around 1 hour. Consider classes may start as early as 7:00 am and finish as late as 10:00 pm.
The following neighbourhoods are located in nice areas of the city where you can find a nice apartment or house. We recommend you look into this list due to commodities, location, prices, accessibility and security.
Autónoma Arcos Vallarta Camino Real Chapalita Colinas de San Javier Colomos Providencia Country Club Jardines del Bosque Jardines Guadalupe Jardines Universidad La Estancia Ladrón de Guevara Lomas del Bosque Lomas del Valle Lomas Universidad Los Cubos Plaza México Gran Plaza Prados Tepeyac Prados Vallarta Providencia Puerta de Hierro Rinconada Santa Rita Univa Valle Real Altamira Atlas Colomos Cuidad Granja Hacienda de Tepeyac Jardín Real Lomas de Zapopan Seattle Solares
Examples of search engines: www.roomslikehome.com www.guadalajarastudenthousing.com
Costs
A regular apartment two bedrooms one bathroom kitchen dining room living room ______= $5,000 to $7,000 Mexican pesos.
Take into consideration that:
9 These prices may vary according to the area, number of rooms, if it is unfurnished, etc.
Most owners ask for a one or two months deposit, which has to be paid by the time the contract is signed. This deposit will be given back at the end of the contract, unless there were damages previously unregistered in the building.
Tecnológico de Monterrey cannot be involved in any kind of negotiations between the landlord and the tenant, nor can we serve as co-signer for the rental agreement; we can only give a written proof of the student’s enrolment in the Institute.
Keywords
Amueblado – Furnished; we recommend you to always look for a furnished apartment Arrendar, Alquilar – Same as “rentar”: To rent Bonitos Acabados – Materials inside the place like wood, paint, steel well done Cochera – Garage Cocina Integral – Kitchen with all facilities included Col. / Colonia – Neighbourhood Comparto – I share Coto – Enclosed neighbourhood, usually very expensive Cuarto de Servicio – Laundry room De lujo – Luxury Dep. / Departamento – Apartment Esq. / Esquina – Corner Estacionamiento – Parking Lot Flete – Freight Inlcuye servicios – Electricity, water and gas are included in the rent price Jal. / Jalisco – State of Jalisco Rento – I rent Tanque Estacionario – Gas tank installed. It’s recommended to have these types of tanks Tel. / Teléfono – Telephone, device or number. Vigilancia – Place that has special security hired for surveillance over the neighbourhood
10 Official Procedures Visa
Please verify your visa requirements with the Mexican Consulate or Embassy in your country and on the following link, since the National Immigration Institute (INM) could modify those requirements without previous notice and because regulations might vary per country: http://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Tramites_LM
You can search for the closest Consulate or the Embassy in the site of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores) at: http://www.sre.gob.mx/
When you contact the Consulate or Embassy, please ask for a STUDENT visa even if you’re coming for less than 180 days. This will facilitate the extension of your stay in case you decide to study another semester with us; otherwise, you’ll have to leave the country and come back again.
If you’re coming for more than 180 day you absolutely need a Student Visa.
The Mexican Consulates and Embassies around the world are the only immigration authorities that can issue this kind of visas; you cannot obtain the student status once you’re in Mexico.
The Mexican government requires that all international students have a valid FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple / Multiple Immigration Form), while studying in Mexico. This is the document you will get in the airport at the immigration point regardless you already have a visa or not. The law states that you must retain this document and present it at your departure from the country.
Upon arrival to México, the Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) has to be filled in correctly, as indicated in the image below.
Each time it asks for the “Tipo de Viaje / Purpose of trip” please be sure to select the option “Otro/Other” and when the migration officer asks you why other, just say you are a STUDENT and show your acceptance letter. Please be sure that you do not select the option Turismo / Tourism because this might cause some troubles with further administrative processes.
11
After verifying everything is right, the immigration officer will grant you access to our country and give you back the detachable part of the form. Please verify that the officer has checked the option “Visitante Actividad NO remunerada” at the Uso Oficial section.
After receiving this document and before 30 days have passed from your arrival, you will have to change the Student Visa for a Temporary Resident Card at the National Immigration Institute.
All students must provide the International Programs Office with a photocopy of a valid migratory document (FMM/FM3/Tarjeta de Residente Temporal) in order to receive a transcript.
Considerations
Documents you may need to bring: Economic solvency proof (in case you didn’t get a Student Visa). You can bring bank statements or notarized letter from your parents or your financial aid proof. In this case you’ll also need a copy of your parents official IDs (passport preferably).
12
During the Orientation Week you can ask for advice on immigration processes.
Insurance
At Campus Guadalajara it is MANDATORY for all international students to be covered by the Health Insurance plan offered by our institution; it is the only insurance we can accept, WITHOUT EXCEPTION.
The insurance company is Royal & Sun Alliance. They have designed a special policy for our national and international students that includes: Travel Assistance and Insurance, Emergency Health Assistance and Insurance, Repatriation of Remains and Civil Liability, among others.
All international students will be insured as a group by the International Programs Office
COST
Semester = $365 US dollars
Students will have to make this payment in Mexican pesos during the first weeks of classes.
COVERAGE
Semester = August 1st – December 12th, 2015
If you wish to be insured from a previous date or remain protected after the initially established dates, the cost for the extra days will be added to the original price. It is not possible to be insured for fewer days than the ones already established.
All students will receive a brief guide on how to proceed in case of needing medical assistance.
Students who wish to remain protected after the initially established date can ask for the procedure during the Orientation Week.
Driver’s License
Mexican Driver’s License
If you want to acquire a Mexican driver’s license you must go to:
Secretaria de Movilidad
13 Av. Alcalde 1351 (at the intersection with Av. Circunvalación División del Norte) Colonia Jardines Alcalde, C.P. 44290 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.
You must bring the following documents in original and photocopy: FMM (and Student Visa if you have it) Passport Knowledge of blood type A receipt or bill with your Mexican address on it (bank statement, phone bill, electricity bill, gas bill, departmental store statement). www.jalisco.gob.mx/es/tramites/4828
Cost
Approximately $452.00 MXN
Tests
A practical one to test your driving skills, A written one to test your knowledge on the traffic laws and common driving manners (you must prepare for the written exam by reading the traffic laws for the state of Jalisco), A sight test to determine if you must wear glasses when driving.
International Driver’s License
You are allowed to drive in Mexico if you own an International Driver’s License. To acquire one no test is required, but you must have a valid Driver’s License from your home country and be 18 years old or over.
Keywords
Pasaporte – Passport Forma – Form (document) Trámite – Procedure Estudiante – Student Turista – Turist Visa – Visa
14 Oficina – Office Oficina de Migración – Immigration Office Licencia de Conducir – Driver’s license Auto – Car Recibo – Bill
Bank info
Bank Loans
It’s quite difficult to get a loan to finance your studies here in Mexico if you’re a foreign student. If you don’t have a working permission you won’t be allowed to have any lucrative activity.
Bank Accounts
To open an account you will need: A student visa A proof of a valid address (no receipt will be accepted, only bills as gas or electricity)
Types of accounts you can open: Savings account Credit Card account Checks account (although they’re not very common here)
Exchanging money (rates, institutions/banks, contacts)
You can exchange money in Banks and Exchange agencies.
List of banks with branches in Guadalajara:
BBVA Bancomer – www.bancomer.com Banamex / Citibank – www.banamex.com Banorte – www.banorte.com Santander – www.santander.com.mx HSBC – www.hsbc.com.mx Scotiabank – www.scotiabank.com.mx IXE – www.ixe.com.mx Bansi – www.bansi.com Banco del Bajío – www.bb.com.mx
15 Banregio – https://portal.banregio.com/ Inbursa – www.bancoinbursa.com Banco de México (Central Bank) – www.banxico.org.mx
Keywords
Banco – Bank Casa de Cambio – Exchange Agencies Financiamiento – Financing Cuenta – Bank Account Tipo de cambio – Exchange rate Dinero – Money Tarjeta de Crédito – Credit card Pago – Payment
16 Communications Mail
Correos de México
National Post Service http://www.sepomex.gob.mx
It is not very efficient and it is very slow. Its use is recommended only for letters (not packages), which are not urgent. You can buy postal stamps at any Mexican Post Office, most of which are located at Alcalde Avenue (downtown).
To check more offices go to: http://www.sepomex.gob.mx/ServiciosLinea/Paginas/copostales.aspx
Courier service
To send packages or any important document, it is always recommended to use a courier service such as Federal Express (FedEx), UPS, DHL, or Estafeta (only inside Mexico). All of these are easy to find in malls and commercial areas.
The International Programs Office provides express mail reception services. This is limited to receiving official documents, envelopes or small packages with emergency purposes only. To receive mail provide this information:
Mail Address:
Check with the secretary at the International Programs Office to find out if your mail has arrived. Please note that the International Programs Office is not responsible for damaged or lost mail.
17 Telephone
Local Phone Numbers
Local numbers in Guadalajara are formed by 8 digits. Example: 3621-0244. The number of digits can change depending on the city you are in.
National Calls
To make a call to other cities or states in Mexico, you must first dial: The code for national calls (01), Followed by the city code (example: 33 for Guadalajara), And finally the local number in the city.
Example, calling from Mexico City to a local number in Guadalajara: 01-33-3621-0244 (national code + city code + phone number)
Cell-Phone Numbers
All cell-phone numbers in Mexico are formed with 13 digits:
Land-line to cell-phone Cell-phone prefix + City Code + Cell-phone number (example: 044-33-10921908).
Cell-phone to cell-phone No need to dial 044
A common practice is to give only the cell-phone number without 044.
Long Distance land-line to cell-phone Replace the (044) prefix for the code for national cell-phone calls (045). Example, 045-33-38441923.
International Calls
Dial 00 + Country code + Phone Number
Calling Mexico from Other Countries
Mexico’s Country Code (52) + City Code + Phone Example: +52-33-36693014
18
Calling a Mexican cell-phone number from other countries
Mexico’s Country Code (52) + 1 + City Code + Phone Example: +52-1-33-36693014
Public Telephones
In order to make a call from a public telephone you need to buy a prepaid card called LADATEL. These LADATEL cards can be found in most convenience stores such as Oxxo, 7- 11, Wal-Mart, Soriana, etc.
Cell-phones
Having a local cell-phone number will make your stay in Guadalajara a lot easier.
We recommend you either buy a new cell phone, which will cost from $400 pesos and over, or just buy a Mexican Chip for your phone, which costs around $150 pesos. The company that has a better and wider service is TELCEL. Please visit their web page for further information: http://www.telcel.com
Keywords
Teléfono - phone Number Marcar – to dial Teléfono público – Phone booth Celular – Cell phone Clave lada –Area code Paquete –Package Enviar- To send Entrega –Delivery Impuesto – Tax Estampilla-Postal Sobre –Envelope Carta – Letter
19 About Mexico
Mexico's culture is rich in history, and is firmly based in family, religion, people and tradition. Mexicans are very proud people – proud of their heritage and proud of their accomplishments. They know that there is a lot to be done to make Mexico better, and they will criticize lots of different things about it, but they are still very patriotic.
Family is a central theme in Mexico, and a cornerstone of their culture. It is not unusual for 3 or sometimes 4 generations of family to meet up for afternoon lunch, sit around the table, talk, gossip, laugh and joke with each other. This is not a special event: this is the usual family life. On weekends, parks, museums, and local attractions are packed with families enjoying their free time together.
Spanish is the official language in Mexico. Unlike other countries, you won’t find much people who speak English in Mexico. It is always necessary to speak and understand Spanish when asking for directions to people in the streets, or negotiating prices with taxi cabs for example.
Life
Generally speaking, Mexico's pace of life is slower than most other countries: especially in comparison to their major cities. Things are promised, but not always delivered at the promised time (ranging from the new table you ordered to the gardener showing up!), this can be frustrating, but once you understand that this is part of the culture you will probably relax into it. Adjust to the calmer rhythm that exists in Mexico.
People here will rather be absolute diplomats, than to give you a straight "yes/no" answer. This makes everyday situations, as well as business negotiations, different to those in other countries: commitment is possible, but not in the way you would get it back home. There is a saying that in Mexico, 'yes means no and no means maybe'. This is a very good analogy of the way Mexican culture deals with the concept of truth: things are not immediately clear cut here.
People
Mexican people are very warm and friendly, especially in smaller communities, where they will make you feel welcome and help you in any way they can. Guadalajara is no exception. It will be easy for you to meet many people and make lots of new friends.
20 Mexican people love foreign cultures, and they love to hear about different people and places. The more effort you make to integrate yourself into their communities and their way of life; the more receptive they will be to you, and they will appreciate the fact that you have made the effort to do so.
Hospitality
Mexican people are very welcoming to foreign people. You may often be invited for lunch or dinner to their houses. They will refer to their houses as “your house” as a form of courtesy. Most of the time, they will be eager to help you in any way they can, and sometimes you won’t even have to ask for help, because they will offer before you do.
Weather
The city is known for having a great weather, sometimes considered by some as “near perfect”.
Summer and winter are very mild. Afternoon showers are present almost every day in summer months, from mid-June to early October. May is the hottest month of the year. July and August have the strongest storms. Usually, rain only lasts 2 or 3 hours, after that it becomes sunny again.
Here are Guadalajara’s average temperatures:
HIGH °F/°C LOW °F/°C January 75 / 23 41 / 05 February 79 / 26 45 / 07 March 85 / 29 50 / 11 April 87 / 30 54 / 12 May 90 / 32 55 / 14 June 89 / 31 61 / 16 July 80 / 26 61 / 16 August 83 / 27 59 / 15 September 83 / 28 59 / 15 October 82 / 27 59 / 15 November 74 / 24 50 / 10 December 73 / 22 49 / 11 http://www.pricetravel.com.mx/guadalajara/clima
21 Religion
There is no official religion in Mexico, since the constitution guarantees separation of church and state. However, Roman Catholicism is practiced by more than 90 per cent of the population.
The shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the nation's patron saint, is located in Mexico City which is the site of annual pilgrimage for hundreds of thousands of believers.
Mexican people are catholic and yet, tend to have a lot of supernatural beliefs. A large number of people in Mexico still go to church, and it is common to see the Christian Crucifix and images of the Virgin of Guadalupe in people's houses, public buildings, offices, cars, taxis and buses.
Holidays
On Mexican Holidays, most schools, banks, and government offices are closed. So, it is always advised to keep in mind these days when making plans. The official holidays are: January 1 – New Year Day February 5 – Constitution Day (day off: 1st Monday of the month) March 21 – Anniversary of Benito Juarez birth (day off: 3rd Monday of the month) May 1 – Labour Day September 16 – Independence Day November 20 – Mexican Revolution’s Day (day off: 3rd Monday of the month) December 25 – Christmas Day
Expenses
In Mexico, the cost of living can be generally lower than it is in other countries, although a growing range of items (especially clothing, audio/visual items, technology, software, cameras, and some luxury goods) are less expensive in the USA.
Food and housing is usually not really expensive, but wages and salaries tend to be lower in Mexico than in other countries, and big-ticket 'luxury' goods like cars, jewellery, designer fashion and so on can be the same price and in some circumstances, more expensive than you would pay back home.
22 Sales taxes apply to all products and services; the rate is 16% of the price of the product. This tax is called I.V.A. (Impuesto al Valor Agregado). As a difference to other countries, you don’t have to worry about calculating the total tax for the product you are buying since most prices you see in stores already have the I.V.A. included (unless it says they have not).
Greetings
Mexican people are high contact people. They greet each other by hugging and kissing in the cheek (women only). When a man greets another man they usually shake hands and give a brief hug if they are very close friends.
Tipping
Tipping is a common practice in Mexico. At bars and restaurants the usual tip percentage is 10% or 15%, however, if you are not satisfied with the service, you don’t have to tip. You may also tip the bell boy at the hotel and at the airport. We don’t usually tip taxi drivers, but you may if you want to.
Bargaining
In outdoors markets, they announce a price higher than the one they intend to sell for. People are expected to negotiate a cheaper price which can be up to 30% less than the original price.
Annual Events
Independence Day takes place the night of September 15. People gather around in bars or in the downtown plaza, and at midnight the president and local governors climb to the balconies in many governmental buildings to do what we call ‘El Grito’, which is basically a representation of when Father Miguel Hidalgo gave the speech that started the independence movement. Usually this night people drink a lot, so take a little more caution than usual when traveling at night on the street, this night is about freedom, tequila, and pure folklore.
Day of the Dead. This event takes place on November 2nd, and it’s celebrated by preparing ‘Altares de Muerto’. These are little altars decorated with flowers, decorative paper in orange and purple mostly, and food offerings. They are usually dedicated to a member of the family that passed away, or to a famous person. In Guadalajara, the most important
23 venue for this celebration is the ‘Panteón de Belen’, which is located 10 minutes away from the Degollado Theatre, on the Belen Street, next door to the morgue. Being the oldest cemetery in the city (closed in 1874), it has a lot of legends. During the month of November, they offer night tours of the cemetery and its legends, followed by a play about death called ‘Don Juan Tenorio’.
The Cervantino International Festival in Guanajuato is the most important cultural and artistic event in Mexico and Latin America. It has been held in the same city 35 times and it gathers over 2,400 artists from 27 countries around the world. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy the best in music, dance, theatre, visual arts and film; as well as to meet people from all over Mexico and the world and party with them until sunrise. This Festival is held in October, but if you wish to attend you need to make hotel reservations at least 2 months beforehand. For more information please visit their official website at: www.festivalcervantino.gob.mx
The October Festival (Fiestas de Octubre) in Guadalajara is the largest and most important cultural festival in the city. Its main venue is the Auditorio Benito Juárez, where you will find handcrafts, rides, games, art displays, an extreme sports section, food court and two concert halls. The main concert hall, located at the centre of the Auditorio, presents a circus show two times a day and a free concert by a famous artist every night. The Palenque, hosts a cock fight and a concert by an internationally famous singer at a cheap price every night. In additions there are plays and art displays all over the city. For more information and a calendar of events, please visit the webpage: www.fiestasdeoctubre.com.mx
In December the Feria Internacional del Libro (FIL) takes place, and is the most important International Book Faire in Latin America. It is organized by the University of Guadalajara. The goal of FIL is to get the book professionals and exhibitors that are attending an optimum business environment and a reading public eager to know the authors and acquire the latest market developments. Since 1993, the FIL has a country or area as the guest of honour, to show the best of his literary and cultural. Since that time the guests of honour were: Colombia (1993), USA (1994), Venezuela (1995), Canada (1996), Argentina (1997), Puerto Rico (1998), Chile (1999), Spain (2000), Brazil (2001), Cuba (2002), Quebec (2003), Catalan Culture (2004), Peru (2005), Andalusia (2006), Colombia (2007), Italy (2008), etc. www.fil.com.mx
Keywords
Antro – Night Club Bebida – Drink Cena – Dinner Fiesta – Party
24 Aventón (also ride) – Ride Concierto – Concert Tocada – Small band concert Cine – Movie theatre Película – Movie Periódico - Newspaper
25 About Guadalajara
Location: west-centre part of Mexico Altitude: 1567m above sea level. Capital of the State of Jalisco It is the second largest city in the country.
With an area of more than 500Km2, Guadalajara’s metro area is formed by 4 main municipalities: Guadalajara, Zapopan, Tlaquepaque, and Tonalá. The city is located within Central Time Meridian (-6 GMT). It’s only about 500km away from Mexico City, and about 300kms from the pacific coast line.
Guadalajara is known worldwide for its traditional hospitality, with a wide variety of cultural and recreational attractions and delicious cuisine. But most of all, it is known for its people. More than just a city, it represents Mexican culture with its folklore, the renowned Mariachi, handcrafts, tequila and the national sport, ‘Charrería’. Few cities can offer such a variety of interesting things to see and do, involving the visitors in a cultural, historical and legendary atmosphere.
26 Safety
Guadalajara’s crime rate is relatively low for a city of its size. We recommend taking some basic precautions. As you would do on any big city, be discreet when wearing expensive jewellery, keep an eye for people you do not trust, do not walk alone at night especially in dark or unoccupied areas.
A note about local policemen: There is a wide variety of ways that policemen do their job. You will find the nicest policeman who is willing to help you, as well as the corrupt police officer who is trying to take advantage of you. As you drive or walk on the street, if officers think you look suspicious, they can ask you to stop and check your belongings so they can be sure you are not carrying drugs, guns, or any illegal stuff. This won’t happen often, in fact it may never happen to you, but just in case, try to be cooperative and respectful with the local policemen whenever they approach you.
Superstores
These are big shops where you’ll find all you need: food, clothes, tools and electrical devices, books and pens, toiletries, etc. The most common and easy to find are: Wal-Mart Bodega Aurrera Superama Soriana Waldos dollar mart
Special Stores
These are convenience and warehouse stores specialized for example in tools, office supplies, medicines, body care, etc. Among the best known you will find: Farmacias Guadalajara (open 24/7) Oxxo 7-11 Sam’s Club Costco Office Depot Office Max Home Price Home Depot
27 Malls
These are places where you will find lots of individual boutiques of all types: clothes, perfumes, shoes, music, movies, fast food, etc. The main “plazas” are:
CENTRO MAGNO Av. Vallarta, n°2425 GRAN PLAZA Av. Vallarta n°3225 PLAZA AMÉRICAS Av. Las Américas y Manuel Acuña PLAZA AMISTAD Av. Patria y Naciones Unidas PLAZA PABELLÓN Av. Patria y Acueducto PLAZA GALERÍAS Av. Vallarta y Av. Rafael Sanzio PLAZA DEL SOL Av. Mariano Otero y Av. López Mateos Sur PLAZA CORDILLERAS Av. Manuel Clouthier y Av. Patria PLAZA LOS ARCOS Av. Vallarta n°2440 PLAZA MÉXICO Av. México n°3300 PLAZA PATRIA Av. Patria y Manuel Avila Camacho PLAZA UNIVERSIDAD Av. Patria y Pablo Neruda PLAZA ANDARES Blvd. Puerta de Hierro 4965 Fracc. Plaza Andares CP 45116 Zapopan, Jalisco PLAZA CIUDADELA Labna No. 1437 Col. Jardines del Sol CP 45050 Zapopan, Jalisco (33) 36-31-82-71 PLAZA TERRANOVA Manuel Acuña 2929 Col. Providencia CP 44600 Guadalajara, Jalisco Tel: (33) 3642 0773 / (33) 3647 7314 PLAZA MILENIUM Categoría: Plaza Av. López Mateos Sur 2375 Col. Ciudad del Sol CP 45050 Zapopan, Jalisco Tel: (33) 3631 4121 / (33) 3631 2852
Markets
These are places in which you will find all you need (especially handcrafts) at very good prices. The main markets are: Mercado Libertad (best known as San Juan de Dios, Downtown) Tianguis Cultural (hippie/hipster) only Saturdays from 9 am to 4 pm. (Av.Alcalde and Washington) next to “Parque Agua Azul” Tonalá (handcrafts) Tlaquepaque (handcrafts)
28 Cinema
If you are looking for the latest Hollywood movie, or most commercial films, Cinepolis Cinemex or Cinemark are the way to go. You will find them inside almost any shopping mall. If you’d like to see something more alternative, pay a visit to the ‘Cineforo’, which is the official cinema theatre of the University of Guadalajara.
Cinepolis http://www.cinepolis.com.mx Cineforo universitario http://www.cineforo.udg.mx Cinemex http://cinemex.com/ Cinemark http://www.cinemark.com.mx Multicinemas http://www.multicinemas.com.mx
Theatre
The two main theatres in Guadalajara are the ‘Teatro Degollado’, and ‘Teatro Diana’. Teatro Degollado is located at Downtown Guadalajara. It’s the oldest and most important theatre in Guadalajara. It is often used as a concert hall for different types of events ranging from classical music to renowned singers concerts.
Teatro Diana is located on Av. 16 de Septiembre, about 10 minutes away from downtown. It was recently renovated and now hosts a wide variety of events, from Broadway plays to concerts from national and international performers. Please visit their website for more information on future events: www.teatrodiana.com
Museums
Museo Regional de Guadalajara: It became a museum in 1810, after being a military base and a catholic priest’s seminary. It has 14 rooms with archaeological and rustic art displays. Its most popular display is the bones of a mammoth found in the area. It’s located downtown at: Liceo 60, in the corner with Av. Hidalgo.
Museo de Arte de Zapopan: It hosts various art displays from national and international artist. It was recently renovated and is quickly becoming one of the people’s favourites. It located in downtown Zapopan, at: Andador 20 de Noviembre 166.
29 Museo Trompo Mágico: This is an interactive museum for children. It has six exhibition rooms with permanent displays, where kids are free to touch and play while learning about art, culture and science. It’s located at: Av. Central 750. Residencial Poniente.
Casa Museo "José Clemente Orozco" Opened in November 1951, was created by Margarita Valladares in order to show the life and work of her husband, who lived in this house in her last stay in Guadalajara. In this museum you can see a legacy of Jose Clemente Orozco's mural "The Good Life" (mural removable) which was painted in early 1945, for an exclusive French club called "Turf Club".
Casa Museo "José López Portillo" La Casa Museo Lopez Portillo offers a permanent exhibit of antique furniture, while not belonged to the family named above, they set ornamental styles of yesteryear. The museum offers visitors guided tours (by appointment), plays, recitals, exhibitions and book presentations.
Wax Museum The wax museum displays more than 100 figures representing historical figures, athletes, national and international actors. Some of the characters immortalized in wax are: Vicente Fox, Vicente and Alejandro Fernandez, Salma Hayek, Ana Gabriela Guevara, Juan Francisco Palencia, Cantinflas, Porfirio Diaz, Benito Juárez, Antonio Banderas, Brad Pitt, Gandhi, Yasser Arafat and many more.
Restaurants
Since restaurants, bars and night clubs may vary from time to time; our recommendation is to get in contact with the local students to learn about the current popular restaurants, bars or night clubs. Getting in contact with local or international students which have been in Mexico before is useful. They can share tips about which days you can get discounts at different places, about what kind of ambient of each place has or simply about where to go.
Traditional Food
The state of Jalisco is gastronomically speaking very rich. There are many Fondas around Guadalajara, where you should try traditional food, such as: Tortas Ahogadas Birria Pozole Tacos
30 Jericalla Carne en su jugo
Sport Events
Guadalajara has three major soccer stadiums: ‘Estadio Jalisco’, ‘Estadio 3 de marzo’ and ‘Estadio Omnilife’. Being soccer the main sport practiced all over Mexico, these stadiums are the main option to enjoy a sport event, which take place many times a month.
Concerts
Guadalajara has recently become a must-stop city for many artists and bands that include our city in their tours. If you want to check the complete offering we suggest you visit www.ticketmaster.com.mx
You will also find other cultural activities in the Ticketmaster agenda.
31 Getting Around City Layout
Guadalajara is divided into 4 sectors: Sector Hidalgo, Sector Juarez, Sector Libertad and Sector Independencia. They are divided by the avenues ‘Calzada Independencia’ and ‘Av. Vallarta’ (also known as ‘Av. Juarez’ after crossing Av. Federalismo to the east). These avenues are very important and we recommend you memorize their names and know their location. Some other important avenues that will help you understand the city layout are:
North to South avenues (parallel to Calzada Independencia): Av. Patria Av. López Mateos Av. Américas
32 Av. Chapultepec Av. Federalismo Av. Alcalde ( Av. 16 de Septiembre in the south part)
West to East avenues (parallel to Av. Vallarta): Av. Hidalgo Av. México Av. López Cotilla Av. Mariano Otero Av. Manuel Acuña Av. La Calma Av. Guadalupe Av. Lázaro Cárdenas
Downtown Guadalajara (‘El Centro’) is located at the crossing of Av. Juarez with Av. 16 de Septiembre. Av. ‘Calzada Independencia’ marks the limit between downtown Guadalajara and the places we do not recommend visiting. If we could divide the city into the east and the west areas, the avenue that would set this limit is ‘Calzada Independencia’. Most of your daily activities shall be performed in the west side of the city, as it is more secure and has more to offer: universities and schools, malls, museums, theatres, cinemas, etc.
The best point of reference for your daily activities is ‘La Minerva’, which is a fountain located at the crossing of Av. López Mateos with Av. Vallarta. This spot is crucial to most people and you can get there very easily by asking local citizens. ‘La Minerva’ is not the centre of the city, but is taken by reference for many directions you can get, and also it will be the centre to most of your daily activities.
Asking for Directions
The best option for knowing how to get to a destination is to ask for directions to your Mexican friends or to local citizens. Sometimes information about local transportation is not accessible over the internet or is not accurate, so it is better to ask the people who use the local transportation system. It is always a good idea to do this before leaving your house, so you already know where your destination is and how you’ll get there. If you are already on your way and you are not sure which way to take, you can ask people in the streets for directions; in most cases they will be eager to help you, just keep in mind that just a very little percentage of the population speaks English so you’ll need to practice your Spanish before doing this.
City Bus
33 There are plenty of bus routes in Guadalajara, you may consult them on this link: http://rutasgdl.com/
However, the best way to know them is to ask for directions.
Routes that will take you to school
Route 629-B It goes through Av. Vallarta (starting from ‘Federalismo’ Avenue).
Route 631 It goes through the northern part of Av. Patria, Av. Avila Camacho, and Zapopan.
Cost = MX $7.00 Except for some routes that have a higher cost, like route Premier or Turquesa. This cost remains the same regardless the distance you travel in the bus.
Transvales
This is a prepaid system to get a 50% discount on local bus routes. Instead of paying cash when boarding the bus, you’ll give a ‘Transvale’ ticket and show your student id.
Note: You can buy a little guide with most of bus routes in any magazine kiosk. It’s called ‘Rutas”. It is not expensive and it is very helpful when trying to find the best route.
Taxicabs
In Guadalajara it is better to call a taxicab site over the phone rather than take one from the street. Taxicab sites tend to be more expensive but safer. If you call them over the phone; specify when and where you want the taxi, and the destination. The cost will be stated over the phone so you know in advance how much you need to pay before accepting the deal.
Taxi express 3637 4525 01 800 002 8294 http://www.taxiguadalajara.com/
One of the most convenient options for transportation is to take a cab from the many stands that are located within the city. Legally they are supposed to use a taximeter to ensure a
34 fair price, but don’t be alarmed if a taxi driver is reluctant to use it and tries to negotiate the price before the trip.
ALWAYS be sure to arrange the deal before boarding the cab, either that you ask for the meter or for a fixed price; if you are not satisfied with the deal just take another cab, prices are negotiable and there should be plenty of cabs.
If you opt for the meter, just be sure you are charged with the correct price rate: 1 one is for daytime, 2 is for night time (after 9 pm) and is more expensive, and 3 is for going outside the city (like going to the airport) and is usually really expensive. If you opt for the fixed price, negotiate it until you are satisfied, with a little practice you should be able to tell the difference if someone is charging a fair price or not.
NOTE: For your own safety, it is always better to take a cab from an official Taxicab site.
Subway
The subway in Guadalajara is not very useful, as it only has two routes, one that goes through Av. Federalismo, which runs from north to south, and a route that goes through Av. Juarez from mid-town Guadalajara to the east part of the city. Its cost is the same as the standard for local buses, and you can also use ‘Transvales’ tickets to board it.
Expreso Tec
At TEC we offer a school transportation service called ‘Expreso Tec’. It is very comfortable and useful to go to school every day.
Please visit this website in order to know prices, schedules and routes: www.gda.itesm.mx/expreso
Keywords
Camión - Bus
35 Minibus – Microbus – Small bus Ruta - Route Calle - Street Semáforo - Headlight Cuadra – Block (side of a block) Manzana – Block (refers to the complete block) Tránsito – refers to the Transit Department Glorieta – Traffic circle, roundabout Periférico – The highway that runs around the city Parada de Camión – Bus stop Tren Ligero – Subway or Light Train Cambio – Change (having coins)
36 TEC Campus Guadalajara http://www.gda.itesm.mx/virtualtour/ How to get to Tec Campus Guadalajara
Two bus routes can take you to the Campus: Route 629-B, which goes through Av. Vallarta, starting from Av. Federalismo. Route 631, which goes through the northern part of Av. Patria, Av. Avila Camacho, and Zapopan. The fare for a one-way trip is $7.00 pesos; there is no transfer system. This fare remains the same regardless the distance you travel in the bus.
Students have access to a prepaid system to get a 50% discount in certain local bus routes; its name is Transvale. To obtain this benefit you must first buy the Transvale (reduced ticket) at the school or any official store. When you board the bus, instead of paying cash you have to give the Transvale to the bus driver and show him your student id. Remember you can find the routes you need at: http://rutasgdl.com/
International Programs Office
This office serves as the program direction for international students. It should be your first contact with your new student life in Mexico. You can go there whenever you need orientation about academic procedures or your everyday life in the city. Don’t be afraid to ask for help whenever you need it. We are always willing to help you.
Contact Information: Programas Internacionales. (International Programs Office) Location: Administrative Building, 3rd Floor. Phone: +52 (33) 3669 3000 ex. 5800 Open from Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm Website: http://www.gda.itesm.mx/pi/studyinmexico
Campus Facilities
Classroom Buildings (Aulas):
37 There are six in total. They are enumerated and you can recognize them by the name ‘Aulas’ along with its number. They are all four floors in height and most of the times have 10 classrooms per floor (at Tec we consider the ground floor as the first floor).
Administrative building: Situated between the building ‘Aulas 2’ and ‘Aulas 3’, here you will find most of the main offices.
Library This building has many useful resources for your everyday life at TEC. Here you can find the library, computer lab, video archive, group and individual study rooms, amongst others.
Student Centre (Centro Estudiantil): The gym is situated in this building, alongside with a couple of classrooms for fitness classes, dress rooms, showers, lockers, and medical service.
Media and Digital Arts Centre: Inside you can find TV and radio broadcast equipment, as well as computers for multimedia development and 3D animation.
Residences hall: This is where students from other cities around Mexico live, and although it is a very good option for foreign students, most of them rather live on their own because the residence hall has strict rules (see ‘Housing’).
Sport areas: These include the pool, the gym, soccer fields, basketball, tennis courts, athletics yard, and volleyball courts. They are all situated at the back of ‘Aulas 1-4’ buildings.
Cafeteria: The main cafeteria is located across the parking lot from the Residence Hall. They have three different menus every day and you can get each starting on $40 pesos.
Cyber-Plaza: A green area situated at the back of ‘Aulas 1-2’ buildings, which serves as a place to study and socialize for all the student community. There are a lot of worktables where you can work online since we have a campus wide wireless network.
Common areas: Alongside the classroom buildings, you can find many benches where you can rest, work or study while waiting for your next class or at any time.
Offices
38 CASA (Academic Services and Treasury). Aulas 2, first floor This is the office to go for general school matters. Think about this office whenever you don’t know which department concerns your problem; here you will be oriented about which office you should go after. Also, this office is in charge of receiving payments related with school procedures.
CEC (Computer Lab) Library, second floor This is not an office, but a working place where you’ll find computers with specific software. Look also for the service module located at the third floor between the buildings ‘Aulas 1’ and ‘Aulas 2’; there you can find help to set-up the wireless network in your laptop or other mobile devices.
Cultural Activities
You will be able to enrol in cultural activities from a wide variety of courses, like music, dancing, arts, etc.
Sports Activities
You will be able to enrol in courses for learning and practicing a specific sport. Or you will be able to use the sport facilities on campus by your own. You can also enrol in the representative teams as well as internal championships of specific sports.
Eating
Inside the campus, there are many options:
Main cafeteria
Open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. You can have complete meals there.
Kiosks
Small kiosks at the Cyber Plaza, which also sell meals, snacks and coffee.
Starbucks
39 There are two Starbucks Coffees at campus.
Other options
Also, you can find automatic vending machines all over campus, and one convenience store (Oxxo). However, you can always explore the surrounding areas, where you can find different kind of fast food restaurants.
Keywords
Salón – Classroom Edificio – Building Estacionamiento – Parking lot Clase – Course Deportes – Sports Cancha – Field Alberca – Pool Calificación – Grade Tarea – Homework Maestro – Teacher Biblioteca – Library
40 Tourism and Travel
In Mexico you will find a variety of places to visit, like beaches, natural resorts, colonial cities, and big metropolis such as Mexico City. The list of places to visit is very extensive and we would have to make another handbook just to talk about them; however, you can visit the following website to find out more about Mexico’s wonders: www.visitmexico.com/en
Traveling By Bus
Since there are very few railroads for passengers in Mexico, travelling by bus is very common. There are three bus stations in Guadalajara:
Central Vieja or ‘old bus station’
Mostly used to travel to nearby small towns, in the state of Jalisco. Its buses are rustic and cheap.
Central Nueva or ‘new bus station’
This bus station is divided in 8 modules, with different bus companies and destinations. Buses leaving from this station go to most major cities and tourist destinations.
Terminal Zapopan
Located near TEC, this is the newest station in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, and it is the closest to zones 1, 4 and 5. Buses leaving from this station may go to the pacific coast, to the north of the country and some nearby cities.
The best way to get to the bus stations is by taxi; getting by bus is just a little more difficult because stations are located in the suburbs of the city.
41
Suggested Bus Companies
ETN Primera Plus Omnibus de Mexico Turistar ADO
Traveling By Airplane
The major airline in Mexico is Aeromexico.
Low-cost Airlines
Volaris Viva Aerobus Interjet
We suggest checking their websites and book in advance, so you can get super cheap tickets!
The airport is located outside the city; it is 30 min from a central spot like ‘La Minerva’.
Keywords Línea – Bus Company Norte, Sur, Este, Oeste – North, South, East, West Zona – Zone Playa – Beach Pueblo – Town Central – Bus Station Camión – Bus Aeropuerto – Airport Aerolínea – Airline Avión – Plane
42 Boleto – Ticket Viajar – To travel
Viaje – Trip
We hope you have found this guide useful. We look forward to meeting you at Guadalajara!
This Handbook was made under supervision of the International Programs Office at Tec de Monterrey, Campus Guadalajara. It is strictly forbidden to copy and publish it without authorization of the author. Doing so represents an illegal act prosecuted by Mexican Laws of Intellectual Property and Copyright.
43