La Guarida Escuela Cooperativa de Español y Espacio Cultural

Experiencia fantástica: My partner and I were drawn to La Guarida because it was a cooperative, and it was even more fun than I imagined! My Spanish improved a LOT, and gave me much more confidence in my abilities than I had before. Class instruction and fun conversations in the morning and engaging activities in the afternoon, plus suggestions for homestays. Perfect for us, and for all ages!

Experiencia fantástica: I thought my medical spanish class with Martín was great! It was super organized and engaging. He was so good at explaining things clearly and encouraging us to speak more. I thought this was particularly well done compared to other medical spanish classes I have taken in that we learned practical dialogue in taking a medical history while also discussing the nuances of speaking in a professional setting.

Experiencia fantástica: I had an amazing experience at La Guarida! I spent 3 weeks at the school and all my teachers were amazing. I went with an intermediate level and I felt like certain concepts that I struggled with really started to click within the classes. Having a safe place to practice and push myself really helped with gaining confidence. I really appreciated that it was more than a language school. With the small class sizes and interesting workshops, you're learning about Oaxacan culture, in addition to Spanish. 10/10 would recommend !!

Experiencia fantástica: This was an INCREDIBLE first experience taking language classes abroad (USA). The teachers were kind, patient, and funny, the afternoon activities fun and interesting, and the space incredibly comfortable and social. I met so many friends and am already planning my next trip back.

Experiencia fantástica: I took 6 weeks of classes two years ago at La Guarida but didn't write a review then, so here is one now. Amazing, young, passionate teachers who care about their students and make classes fun. The co-op atmosphere is a delight and laid back, the school itself and the garden feels like a little sanctuary. The cooking class and walking tours were my favorite activities. I made friends in my classes to travel to surrounding villages (Cuajimoloyas y Capulálpam de Méndez) on the weekend. I am still in contact two years later with my classmates and some of my instructors, really genuine folks. I have wonderful memories of spending a holiday here. I attribute my immense growth and understanding of the Spanish language to La Guarida! Nos vemos ❤️

Experiencia positiva: I was at the school for two weeks. I really liked: - The enthusiasm and flexibility of the teachers and administrators - The afternoon activities and trips - The other students at the school; a group of very interesting people I would have liked: - Much more explicit structure for the classes. For instance, at the beginning of the week or a class a preview of what we would learn during the instructional time. Or hearing what our learning objectives are. Or our goals for the week. The basics of instructional design were not shared with the students. Never knew if there was a plan for the classes. And there may have been, it was just never articulated. - More emphasis on grammar and accents. This was almost entirely missing from my classes. - Quieter and cooler classrooms

Experiencia fantástica: I spent two weeks at La Guarida and was honestly amazed how far my Spanish came along in such a short amount of time, all thanks to the amazing classes and activities coordinated here! My teacher Itan was amazing, with so much energy and enthusiasm, as well as patience! The activities in the afternoon are great for immersion as well as meeting other students, which was great for me as someone who was attending alone. I also stayed in a homestay organised by the school which was great, the family was so welcoming and the house was lovely. I went from speaking barely any Spanish at the start to participating in the intercambios in the second week with oaxaqueños and actually able to follow a conversation and contribute myself :) I’m really grateful to have found this school, thank you!!

Experiencia negativa: This review reflects my personal experience attending La Guarida in Oaxaca for a one-week Spanish immersion program. I was genuinely excited about the experience. I’ve been a teacher for over 20 years and was looking forward to being a student again. Unfortunately, the school felt disorganized. After the first day, we had different teachers who did not seem to communicate with each other, so we repeatedly covered the same questions and conversations. It became repetitive and not very productive. There were also multiple days when the school had no running water, so the toilets could not be flushed and students could not wash their hands. However, the main reason I am writing this review is because of a serious safety issue during one of the school’s organized activities. The school advertised a guided tour to “La Central,” the largest market in the city (see the attached screenshot of the schedule). It sounded like an interesting cultural experience led by someone connected to the market. Instead, we were taken on an extremely crowded public bus where we were packed in standing while more passengers kept getting on. When we arrived at the market, it immediately felt unsafe. There were no other tourists and we mostly just walked through while the guide did some personal grocery shopping. While waiting for the bus to return, I asked the guide if the area was safe and he assured me it was. As I stepped onto the bus to leave, a man suddenly came up behind me, put one hand around my throat, dug his nails into my skin with the other hand, ripped my necklace off, and ran away. I got on the bus shaking and bleeding. No one helped me, including the guide who had brought us there. I have traveled extensively and am always careful about where I go. I would never have chosen to visit this area on my own. What was most upsetting was the school’s response. When I told several teachers the next day, no one seemed concerned and the school took no responsibility. Even more troubling, the very next day they took another group of students to the exact same place. Students trust schools like this to organize safe activities and look out for their well-being. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this program to anyone considering studying there.

Experiencia fantástica: This place is amazing! Classes in the morning, Spanish immersion for the afternoon: activities, or tours, or language exchanges. I went from barely speaking to actually functional Spanish in just 4 weeks. This place is super cute, classrooms are small (just a handful of students, like between 2 and 5 per teacher), and teachers are really experienced. It was maybe the best learning experience I've ever had. Plus they have a cat

Experiencia fantástica: Friendly, welcoming school that organised me a lovely homestay too. I only had a week to spend here but I wish I could spent longer. I learnt a lot and clarified up a lot of grammar I hadn't properly understood before thanks to the teachers. The activities are great too.

Experiencia fantástica: La Guarida Escuela Cooperativa exceeded my expectations. My one on one Spanish instructor was outstanding and I really liked the intercambios and extracurricular activities they offered. Administration staff was prompt in responding and provided all the information requested and more to settle comfortably in at the school and in Oaxaca. I would highly recommend.

Experiencia fantástica: I loved my three weeks at la guarida. The teachers were great and the students really bond well given the draw of social justice , LGBTQIA inclusiveness and workers rights The only drawback for me was the abundant ambient noise from the street that made it hard to hear well. But that’s not a dealbreaker imho

Experiencia fantástica: I spent a month at La Guarida and the experience greatly exceeded my expectations! La Guarida is a teachers’ cooperative and the instruction is outstanding. The teachers are committed, lively and encouraging. I can’t believe how much I learned! There are interesting activities every afternoon ranging from traditional crafts, slang workshops and tours. I feel very lucky to have landed there!

Experiencia fantástica: I’ve had such a wonderful time at this school. I followed two weeks of class, out of a 2 month holiday, to be able to have small talk and understand what’s going on around me while traveling. I’ve been on the road by myself for a few days now and people have been applauding me for my Spanish. So, it’s safe to say the hard work has paid off! The extra activities organized by the school were super entertaining and I had the best time with the other students. ¡Muchas gracias para todo y espero que nos volvamos a encontrar!

Experiencia fantástica: I took classes here for 2 weeks and really enjoyed the experience. The classes and all the instructors were great!

Experiencia fantástica: Great Spanish school with small, interactive classes, fun activities and a great vibe. Would 100% recommend, no matter what your level of Spanish is.

Experiencia fantástica: Great experience. We had a lot of fun interacting with the instructors, other students even those in classes with different comprehension levels and the locals who come in for the intercambio language exchanges. The homestay they set up for us was a real joy. Living with community members in the area who spoke with us in the mornings before class. They became our friends and helped us learn and utilize Spanish more so than had we just stayed in a hotel. Also the homestay was very affordable and offered a pretty decent breakfast every morning. Oaxaca is an amazingly diverse cultural hub for Mexico with so much color, life and arts in and around the town. The food in the area is great and affordable. We highly recommend Doña Ceci as well as the organic market for lunches near the school and Cafe Malemute for coffee before classes begins. Try to stay in or at least visit barrio de xochimilco just north of the school. We had calendas almost every day, lots of artisans in that area making local textiles, chocolate and coffee and its slightly less touristy with less traffic than the Centro area that you will undoubtedly spend most of your time in. Try Taquería La Piñita on Mondays and get 10 tacos for 75 pesos. Nothing bad to say about this school or our trip. It was a really great interlude from our normal stressful days in the US and it really helped us break through and become more confident in our use of Spanish. We are already planning our next trip back

Experiencia fantástica: I took classes for 2 weeks and loved the experience from the homestay to the teachers. Everyone is kind and I felt like I learned a lot in only two weeks. I would return!

Experiencia fantástica: Attended this spanish school for a week and can not recommend it enough! Classes and afternoon activities were fun, interesting, and varied. I chose this school as it is a cooperative. The teachers are knowledgable and welcoming. Classes for all levels. Great vibe! Would have loved to stay for longer if I had the time. Would definitely recommend!

Experiencia fantástica: I've been to three different language schools this year, across Spain and Mexico, and this one was hands down the best. It was super sociable, with great afternoon activities (films, city tour, language exchange, art workshops etc.) and a nice mix of ages and nationalities. The teaching was great, it was super organised and I have never had so much fun in a conversation class. Best of all, the teachers all seem to be really happy there and the co-op structure seems to work really well for them. They also have a lovely cat and some very friendly dogs that occasionally visit. If it hadn't been my last week in Mexico I'd have absolutely extended my stay!

Experiencia fantástica: Es un espacio seguro, de aprendizaje y crecimiento

Experiencia fantástica: This school is the best in Oaxaca. I tried other immersive programs in the city and they lacked structure/felt more like tours that schools. I also tried online classes and felt stuck with my Spanish. I finally found La Guarida and they got me over that hurdle! The instructors at La Guarida really pay attention to what you need and are fun and approachable. There was a great balance of instruction and interesting activities (some of which include learning useful phrases/slang that I impressed my Mexican friends after). The classes were small and the students were well-matched according to their ability. I also loved the location and the fact that it's a collective (there's also a cute cat that lives at the school). This group is dedicated-I highly recommend taking classes here if you are serious about learning Spanish. I will be back!

Experiencia fantástica: I attended this school for one week to learn Spanish and I'm glad I chose this one. The teachers are friendly and approachable and the extra activities are very enjoyable, and varied from art classes to city tours. There are also two hours per week of "intercambio" language exchange with locals who are learning English and that was really fun! There is a very nice atmosphere within the school and the fact that it is a cooperative organisation probably adds to that. On top of everything else it's good value for money! Would definitely recommend!

Experiencia fantástica: I had the loveliest week at La Guarida! I so enjoyed creative activities and conversations that helped me strengthen my Spanish skills. It was super important to me that the school is a cooperative and I felt an overall sense of shared values. Highly recommend spending some time learning here!

Experiencia fantástica: I absolutely loved my two weeks at La Guarida and can’t recommend them enough! I arrived with very little Spanish and feel like I learnt so much in two weeks! The teachers are all super lovely and friendly, and my teacher (Itzel) was so kind, fun and patient - learning with her felt really easy and relaxed. The afternoon activities each day are run by a range of teachers who all bring different styles and share their areas of special interest, which was a fun way to mix it up. They are also a great way to meet other students at different levels and there were a few really cool people while I was there. I was initially attracted to La Guarida because of the cooperative model and general ethos, and I think that creates a really nice vibe. I particularly liked that it didn’t feel hierarchical at all. It’s a relaxed and fun atmosphere, a beautiful space, and I immediately felt comfortable and at home. You can tell the teachers are all really passionate and they feel like a wee family, while also being super professional. I’m so glad I decided to go with La Guarida and would recommend to anyone visiting beautiful Oaxaca and wanting to improve their Spanish! Muchas gracias, I really hope to return one day

Experiencia fantástica: Having tried schools and home-stays and on-line programs like Babble and Duolingo, nothing matches our experience at La Guarida School. My wife and I took classes for three weeks at this wonderful school in July and, through its personalized instruction, conversational methodology, activities, and "inter-cambios" built better language acquisition than months in other programs. But getting comfortable conversationally in Spanish is only one benefit of La Guarida. We were able to learn about Oaxaca, its history, its biota, its culture, and where to find good chocolate and tacos! The teachers, who work collectively were genuine, sensitive, professional and tailored instruction to individual learning. Most importantly, we built friendships in La Guarida's caring community of co-learners.

Experiencia fantástica: I've traveled twice to Oaxaca to take classes at La Guarida and take weekly online classes with one of my teachers there. It's such an incredible community of folks. The skilled teachers are passionate about sharing the Spanish language and Mexican culture and history with you. You'll find yourself discussing Oaxcan botany, the Mexican Revolution, street art and gender politics with your instructors, while you build lasting friendships with your fellow travelers. I couldn't recommend this school more.

Experiencia fantástica: My time at La Guarida has been a true joy. The teachers are extraordinarily skilled in language instruction and are extremely flexible to meet your specific language needs and desires. I am inspired by their cooperative leadership model which has meant a work and school culture with greater community, satisfaction, and authenticity. Each teacher brings a great measure of their own personality to instruction which also greatly enhances the sense of community. I got so much more than improving my Spanish out of my experience at La Guarida. From authentic relationships with locals in their language exchange program to low stakes creative art or writing workshops, to social justice minded frameworks of understanding the social dynamics in contemporary Oaxaca, I can’t recommend this school enough. Deep gratitude La Guarida fam!

Experiencia fantástica: This school is amazing! I was able to spend 7 days with the school and it was so fun! They offer optional workshops and activities that are included with your tuition. The cost of the school is also very reasonable. I have taken immersion classes with other schools in Mexico and I really prefer the way this school is run. The lessons were fun and very practical. I learned alot about how to say things grammatically correct, but also how the locals would express the same idea in an idiomatic way. The teachers were all incredible and the environment that they have creating really allows for the students to all participate and learn as a group. I took private classes and participated in all the activities, my favorite part is that the school has a language exchange program where locals in Oaxaca come to practice their English (or another language) and they also help you with your Spanish. That was probably my favorite part, as I was able to take the things I learned during my classes and actually apply them with locals in a very comfortable setting. Yuri, Tono and Nancy were amazing teachers that really understand the language. Tono loves the history of the region which made the whole experience like a long tour of the city and the past of Oaxaca. I cannot recommend the school enough and I will be back for more classes. I also opted for the home stay with Azucena and her family. It is a 30 second walk to the school and I cannot recommend it enough. Make sure you bring your bug repellent! The mosquitos are everywhere. But I had zero issues if I used repellent.

Experiencia fantástica: I am so grateful to have spent 2 weeks with the kind, knowledgeable, and passionate teachers at Guarida. I became much more comfortable in my speaking and comprehension of the language, and found my voice in spanish to communicate about things I care about. I found that the class model really worked for me, and instructors were coordinated and highly responsive to what language skills I needed to learn to progress. When I started I felt really uncomfortable speaking and leaving I had a full conversation in Spanish with my taxi driver. I also met some amazing people, teachers, students, and intercambio participants, who I am staying in touch with.

Experiencia fantástica: In just one week, I believe I’ve learned as much as in one year with Duolingo. I’ve bridged many conjugation and grammatical gaps while having lots of fun. I’d recommend attending their workshops too. This week, we visited an old neighborhood, did crafts and learned to swear in Spanish. I highly recommend this school and hope to return there.

Experiencia fantástica: I took Spanish classes at this school for 3 weeks and I can't recommend it enough! La Guarida has an incredible staff of experienced, friendly teachers who can work with students of any language level. As a teacher myself, I was really inspired by their cooperative model of education, which means the teachers share ownership of the school and also share responsibilities throughout the space to keep it running. This is originally what made me choose this school and I'm so glad I did! If you are looking to support excellent teachers, taking classes at this school is a great way to do so! The school offers group and private lessons, and included in the prices are about 10 additional hours of optional workshops, activities, excursions and opportunities each week ranging from cooking, art and dance classes, to learning about important plants and history throughout the city. The school also hosts a language exchange twice a week with locals who want to improve their English, giving you a chance to practice Spanish with new people. If you're solo traveling or spending a good chunk of time in Oaxaca, this is a great way to feel like you are part of a community and to meet people. Lastly, the school just has a great vibe, perhaps in part due to the cooperative model. The teachers are all very professional and take their teaching seriously, but they also know how to make learning fun and enjoyable in the process. You can tell that they enjoy teaching and this translates to great experiences for their students.

Experiencia fantástica: It wasn’t until I got into a cab in Colombia after landing at the airport at 1am, with a driver that spoke no English, that I realized the profoundness of what I learned a La Guarida. After confidently negotiating a price, we spent 45 minutes connecting (in Spanish!) about where we are from, our interests, and even laughing at a joke or two. My once stoic and cold driver immediately warmed, and with all smiles slowed his words for me, appreciating the caveman attempt at conversation in his language. Human connection- is what it’s all about. I attended La Guarida for 6 weeks, starting at a BELOW beginner level. It’s easy to feel nervous and insecure when learning a new language, especially starting with nada! All my anxieties melted away at this school, and they gave me exactly what I needed to open up this part of my mind. Day 1, Rosa had me miraculously responding in Spanish! They tailored the conversational lessons to my interests and profession, giving me the most useful vocabulary practice for me personally. The teachers are all experienced, professional, fun, and encouraging. They were super flexible with scheduling, always accommodating my needs first. Thank you for your patience, knowledge, and for opening up this door to the world for me. Muchas Gracias

Experiencia fantástica: La Guarida was the first language school that I attended. I came in with a very basic level and improved significantly over my two months there. It was also easy to meet people through the school. I felt fortunate to have a community of other students to socialize with, while my spanish skills were too weak to form any meaningful connection with someone who couldn’t speak English fluently. The administration is well-organized and communicative and provides exciting activities outside the classroom to help you explore the area.

Experiencia fantástica: A special place to learn and connect!! I’m so glad I found La Guarida and got to take classes here. Miguel, Ruth and Nancy we all excellent teachers and so fun and passionate. Marco was super helpful and flexible in setting up my time there and connected me to a wonderful homestay with Maria Luisa and her sister.

Experiencia fantástica: Buen y amplio espacio cultural

Experiencia fantástica: I had a great week at La Guardia, the teachers have great energy and make the learning process fun. Extra curricular activities and inter cambios are included in the price. Unlike other schools in Oaxaca La Guardia is a teachers co-operative - your school fees go towards paying a fair wage. And as a more advanced student (C1) they had a class available - but also lots of beginners who appeared to be having a great time. Easily the best of Oaxaca's schools.

Experiencia fantástica: I had a great experience at La Guarida Spanish School. All of my teachers were friendly and talented instructors, so much so that I felt immediately comfortable with the Spanish immersion method of instruction. In addition to great grammar and conversation teaching, I really appreciated the introduction they gave me to the city and state of Oaxaca-- it was more complicated than pretty buildings and good food. I learned a lot about the indigenous communities, the cultural history, and LGBTQ and Feminist movements. I deeply appreciated this education!

Experiencia fantástica: I love this school! I've taken a ton of classes/lessons here, with multiple teachers, and it's a wonderful place--the best I've found after visiting over a dozen Spanish schools in Oaxaca. They're very friendly, welcoming and helpful throughout the organization. They're young and very down to earth (the opposite of stuffy or elitist which I have encountered at some other schools), but also very professional and skilled. It's also so cool that they're a co-op, so the school is owned by the teachers, and the teachers are probably happier and I would guess paid more in their relationship with the school. Come try classes/lessons! They have a lovely garden too. (They didn't ask for this review.)

Experiencia fantástica: You should go to this school. The people here are incredible. The language instruction is exceptional. La Guarida Escuela Cooperative de Español y Espacio Cultural is one of those rare organizations that fulfills its mission on a daily basis. My experience at La Guarida Escuela was so positive that I extended my stay in Oaxaca for an additional week in order to continue my studies. I can't wait to go back!

Experiencia fantástica: Wow what an incredible experience at La Guarida! All of the teachers at the school were extremely welcoming and challenged me through different conversation topics, lessons, and essays. I especially enjoyed the walking tours of different barrios by Marco, as you gain a different perspective about your surroundings especially in the midst of city development and changes. I studied here for 3 weeks at the super intensive level and I really felt this helped me understand the subjunctive tense! La Guarida connected me to a homestay and I would highly recommend this as an alternative to Airbnbs and hotels, as you have the time to get know more residents, support local businesses/families, and of course try out delicious food. My homestay with Maria Luisa and her sister was definitely the highlight of my visit!

Experiencia fantástica: My husband, two kids and I had lovely Spanish classes here for 2 hours each day for a week in Oaxaca. The teachers are all very dedicated and Marco, one of the people who runs it, is super helpful and took us on a great walking tour of the city illuminating some of it's hidden history. Teaching focussed on really getting us to speak which was great. They also offer exchanges with Oaxaca residents who want to improve their English as well as cookery classes. For our kids, they tailored Spanish classes through doing art and clay workshops which worked really well.

Experiencia fantástica: La Guarida is a marvelous school! I spent two months in Oaxaca this fall (2021) and these Spanish lessons were the highlight of my stay. I loved the enthusiasm and curiosity of my teachers. They were experienced: skilled at explaining, listening, and allowing me to make mistakes as I experimented with the language. I was an in-person student taking three hours of individual classes per day (in addition to the afternoon activities and intercambios). My lessons covered grammar in a systematic and organized way, but both of my teachers (grammar and conversation) offered fascinating topics for discussion and creative methods for practicing grammar and vocabulary. I enjoyed the way they included actual literature in my lessons (short stories and poetry) appropriate to my level as I progressed. The delightfully cooperative spirit of the school was evident in the relationship between staff members and the way they brought in outside guests to teach cooking and craft workshops in the afternoons. The city tours took me to neat places I wouldn’t have found on my own. This school is a hidden gem!

Experiencia fantástica: I loved my time at La Guarida! I spent about 4 weeks there, taking group classes, living in a homestay, and participating in the other school activities. The classes are well-organized, thoughtful, and skillfully taught. (I am a teacher so I notice these things.) I loved how we got to discuss local and world issues, literature, and other engaging topics. The teachers create a community that is fun to be a part of - I really recommend the school!

Experiencia fantástica: What an amazing experience. I've taught for longer than I care to remember but the teaching at this school is on another level. I was hanging on every word and that kind of atmosphere is completely infectious...... The other students in our (small) classes were equally inspiring. I will miss everything about La Guarida and Oaxaca.

Experiencia fantástica: I took group classes for 3 weeks at La Guarida and it was the best experience! I love that it's a small school that's run co-operatively, you really get to know all the teachers and staff. I'd already been studying independently for 1.5 years and they had a small group at my level. We averaged 2 students each week in my class, so tiny! Marco is a great teacher and makes the classes really fun. I was a little worried about the classes being 100% in Spanish, but I got the hang of it really quickly and now I see how valuable that is. I also really like the extracurricular activities: hiking, posada party, dance classes, art workshops. It's a great way to get to know people. One of the reasons I chose this school in particular was they offer a Queer Spanish class, so they're LGBT friendly!

Experiencia fantástica: Fantastic language school. Great professors who give you the experience of being immersed in a new language without being overwhelmed. Highly recommend.

Experiencia fantástica: Very good school, got it recommended by a friend and really enjoy taking classes here! My teacher Miguel is lovely and adapts his teaching schedule to your needs. Started off on a group class and I feel like they are very empathic when it comes down to putting together people.

Experiencia fantástica: I chose the school because of its cooperative ethics and affordable rates, and stayed an extra week because of the truly wonderful people! The space is right in the heart of Oaxaca, with bright classrooms and a courtyard to relax in. I took private classes and my teacher, Miguel, was incredibly patient, clear, and made everything from vocab to conjugations a lot of fun to learn! Though I was nervous about one-on-one lessons, he made me feel comfortable and more confident right from the first day ♡ An amazing school and inspiring organisation! Gracias!

Experiencia fantástica: This school is amazing! It's a co-op, which means the teachers are equal partners in the school and basically they run it, which means they make a fair wage instead of the low wages paid at other schools. Because of this model, the school is cheaper too. And the teachers are really good, I've been studying with Miguel for a few weeks and I notice my improvement, he's incredibly nice and patient. The space has a bright courtyard feel with views of the Zocolo area.