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Baja California Sur - Location and Politics

Characterized primarily by deserts, Baja California Sur is a treasure of stunning landscapes, hearty cactus, shrubs, and well-adapted animals and insects. The ocean waters around La Paz and Loreto are world renown for their diversity in marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, sharks, rays, sea lions, and other marine animals. Baja California del Sur (BCS) is the southern state of the Baja peninsula located in Northwest México. It is the least populous of all the Mexican states. BCS is bordered to the east by the Sea of Cortéz and to the south and west by the Pacific Ocean.

México is a federal republic. The president can hold a term for six years, and cannot be re-elected.  Along with four other states, BCS accounts for over 65% of México's total fish production. BCS is also one of the most important Mexican states in terms of mining, known for an abundance of silver, copper, and salt. Tourism makes up a large percentage of the economy, and visitors come to fish, relax, and recreate in the stunning waters of the surrounding sea.

Airline Tickets

The tuition for international student courses includes round trip air travel (for students coming from within the continental U.S.) from your closest major airport to the host country. Tuition for adult trips and educator courses do not include airfare. EPI will make the necessary reservations for the air travel that is included in your course. Tickets are purchased as a group, ensuring everyone will be on the same flight. Because we purchase blocks of tickets, it is not possible to use frequent flier miles to cover the cost of your airfare.

Travel Documents and Money

• Passports: U.S. citizens need a passport valid for at least six months after your trip date to enter the country, but do not require visas. If the participant is not a U.S. citizen, check with the Mexican embassy to find out if you will need a visa.
• Minors: If you are under eighteen, you will need a Minor International Travel Letter − signed and notarized by both parents. The original signed and notarized form should be carried in the participant's passport.
• Currency: The currency of México is the peso. U.S. dollars are accepted in México, however you'll likely want a few pesos to spend in the small towns we visit. We recommend that you exchange $20-$50 into pesos before you leave the United States.
• Spending money: All expenses, such as food and lodging, are included in your tuition. You may want spending money for souvenirs and an occasional snack: $50-$100 should be sufficient. If this seems low, take more. If this seems high, remember that you don't have to spend it.

Insurance

All participants must be covered by medical insurance while on course. When traveling abroad, we recommend that you check with your insurance carrier to confirm that your coverage is valid in the host country. If not, we request that you purchase medical insurance specifically for this course. We can recommend several vendors that may assist you. EPI insurance does not cover the theft, loss, or damage of participant's personal property and equipment. We suggest you confirm that your insurance coverage includes these risks.

Health

• Vaccinations: At this time, no proof of vaccinations is required to enter México. EPI strongly recommends that each participant receive a Hepatitis A vaccination and a tetanus vaccination within the past ten years prior to traveling. Participants and their families should consult with a medical doctor for the latest recommendations about additional vaccines.
• Fitness: This course is physically demanding with lots of walking and hiking involved. We encourage our students to exercise regularly in the weeks before the course.

Communication

• Spanish: Spanish is the language of México, but Spanish fluency is not required for participation. EPI instructors all speak English and Spanish and will translate when needed. Participants will have lots of opportunities to use and learn Spanish, and will find knowledge of the Spanish language helpful. Start reviewing that Spanish vocabulary ahora!
• Phones: Due to the remoteness of our locations, students will only have the opportunity to call home upon arrival and before departure at the International Airport in México. Prior to departure, the group chaperone will be sent a phone tree to notify parents of the group's safe arrival in México.
• Email: There are no internet cafes or places to check email during the course.