The Centro Idiomas del Sureste (CIS, Calle 52 between Calles 49 and 51, tel. 999/923-0954, www.cisyucatan.com.mx) is a great place to perfect your Spanish while living with a local family. All levels of Spanish are taught with class size varying from one to six students; courses last at least one week. Students also can get intensive language training that’s geared to their area of interest—CIS is a favorite with Spanish teachers as well as Maya scholars because of this. Classes are held at three locations: the downtown historical district and residential areas north and west of downtown.

Located in the historic center, Instituto Benjamin Franklin de Yucatán (Calle 57 No. 474-A, tel. 999/928-0097, www.benjaminfranklin.com.mx) offers Spanish grammar and conversation courses that last anywhere from one week to a year. An entrance exam is given to all students to determine their language ability. Mexican history courses also are offered as well as area field trips. Home stays also can be arranged.

Mayan World Spanish Institute (Calle 47 at Paseo de Montejo, tel. 999/927-7813, ) also offers all level of instruction, though courses are more regimented—each lasts four weeks, with at least 20 hours of instruction per week and have set start dates. Some courses include field trips and dance lessons. Housing, including home stays, also can be arranged.