We are delighted to announce the launch of Mexico as a new CAS Trips destination! With its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, we know this enchanting country will serve as the perfect setting for an impactful educational travel experience.
Our meticulously crafted itinerary will take students on a journey through ancient civilizations, service activities with indigenous communities, exhilarating adventures, and reflective experiences. Read on to learn more about why we are so excited to welcome you to Mexico!
Indigenous rights and protecting cultural heritage
We build the itinerary for each of our destinations with a theme in mind. When we decided to travel to Mexico, we knew it would be the ideal opportunity to focus on issues like indigenous rights and the preservation of cultural heritage. Mexico’s vibrant and diverse culture offers so many unique opportunities for students to immerse themselves in a different way of life.
From exploring ancient ruins to participating in traditional dances and culinary experiences, students will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Mexican traditions and customs. Through cultural immersion activities, students will work with local families as they learn about the significance of corn, cinnamon, and other indigenous produce and how these elements are deeply intertwined with traditional Mexican identity.
As Simon Willis, CAS Trips South America manager, explains,
“This trip is all about offering opportunities for students to connect with local families, learn meaningful skills, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for Mexico’s thriving culture.
By delving into processes like that of cinnamon production and the challenges faced, such as environmental issues, students gain a deeper understanding of the world’s reliance on these resources and the importance of not taking them for granted. Engaging with local communities, students will also witness a wide range of household traditions, food preparation, and sacred practices.”
Here are a few more highlights we have to offer on our latest trip!
Explore Mexico’s historical significance
Of course, Mexico also boasts a fascinating history, including ancient civilizations like the Maya, Aztec, and Olmec. Students will have the chance to walk in the footsteps of these civilizations, visiting archaeological sites such as Teotihuacan and gaining insights into their achievements and ways of life. This firsthand encounter with history will both serve to enrich their knowledge and promote cross-cultural understanding.
Sustainability and service learning opportunities
Mexico’s diverse ecosystems provide an ideal backdrop for sustainability learning. Students can explore natural wonders like jungles, volcanoes, and botanical gardens while learning about environmental conservation and sustainable practices. On this trip, travelers will have the opportunity to witness the importance of sustainable agriculture, such as Maiz cultivation, and understand how communities can work together to maintain ecological balance.
In addition, Mexico offers numerous service learning opportunities that empower students to make a positive impact on local communities. By engaging in activities such as traditional farming, preservation of cultural heritage, and supporting indigenous rights, students learn about social responsibility, community development, and sustainable practices.
Cross-cultural collaboration, reflection, and personal growth
Engaging with indigenous communities in Mexico fosters cross-cultural collaboration and empathy. Students can work side by side with locals, exchange knowledge, and understand the challenges these communities face. Through meaningful interactions, students develop a global perspective and learn the value of cultural diversity.
Mexico’s immersive experiences provide ample opportunities for reflection and personal growth. Guided reflection sessions, campfire discussions, and workshops encourage students to critically analyze their experiences, develop empathy, and build resilience. These reflective practices enhance their personal and academic growth, fostering skills that are transferable to future endeavors.
Itinerary Overview: This is what awaits you in Mexico!
Day 1: Arrival in Mexico City
The days will bring a walking tour of downtown Mexico City, where students will discover fascinating ruins and experience the warmth of Mexican hospitality. The evening program will feature a Salsa dance class and mouth-watering Mexican cuisine to kick-start the itinerary and allow everyone to settle into the rhythm of Mexico.
Day 2: Explore Ancient Civilization
Students will enjoy a visit to Teotihuacan, one of the most captivating ancient sites on the continent. Here, they can explore sprawling pyramids, avenues, and city structures and experience the ancient game “Juego de Pelota.”
Day 3: Traditional Farming and Community Service
Now it is time for a meaningful day of service as we travel to San Pedro Tlalcupan to collaborate with indigenous communities and learn about the ancient methods of Maiz cultivation. Students will roll up their sleeves and work the land alongside locals, experiencing firsthand the importance of sustainable practices.
Day 4: Adventure in Cuetzalan
Students will journey to Cuetzalan, a magical town known for its colonial architecture and indigenous cultures. Here, they will embark on a short jungle hike, savor a packed lunch amidst the serene surroundings, and indulge in a traditional Mexican sauna, known as Temazcal, in a nearby cave.
Day 5: Preserving Cultural Heritage and Indigenous Rights
Day five presents the opportunity to gain insights into the challenges indigenous communities face in Mexico. Joining the Tosepan Titataniske cooperative, students will collaborate with local families, work in their backyards, and discover the power of community in overcoming these challenges.
Day 6: Discover Creativity and Activity
Following an invigorating early-morning yoga session, students will visit the Botanical Garden, where they will encounter a vast array of unique flora and fauna. Afterward, we return to Mexico City to explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa, where modernity blends harmoniously with tradition.
Day 7: CAS Project
Get ahead with your CAS Project!
After an introduction to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and their future targets, students will receive the tools and framework to plan, organize and engage in a long-term collaborative team CAS Project that will have a positive impact on their community back home.
As you can see, Mexico has so much to offer when it comes to providing an enriching educational travel experience with a wide range of opportunities for service learning, cultural immersion, sustainability education, and personal growth. By exploring this remarkable country, students broaden their horizons, develop a sense of global citizenship, and become empowered agents of positive change in their communities and beyond.
