I have also learned that it is not correct to describe someone from the US as American, North American, or even from the United States. My professor made the point that they are Americans too, also North Americans, and they are also from the United States (of Mexico). Very interesting! So in class we have adopted the friendly term "gringo" to describe people like me. They insist that it is not derogatory!
This weekend we are going to Cancún! I'm very excited to escape the 70 degree weather here in Monterrey! We are flying out on Thursday night, going to stay in a hostel, and then play it by ear from there. We plan on seeing some of the famous ruins in the Yucatan like Chichten Itza, which has been declared one of the 7 new world wonders, Tulum, an ancient city on the Caribbean, and various others. I'm very excited! We will return on Monday (it is a national holiday here).
Another thing that I have had a hard time adapting to is the metric system. There are many foreign people here from all over: France, Germany, Australia, Latin American countries, Asia, etc. and every one with exception to the US uses the metric system. I tell people I live about 2 miles from campus, and they always say they don't know how far that is! The metric system actually makes a lot of sense, and it is easier to use, but since I didn't grow up around it, I don't know how far a kilometer is or exactly how hot 30 degrees is with out converting it! Someone told me it was going to be 30 the other day, and at first I was really surprised. After, I realized that its about 86 degrees F.
Lots to get accustomed to here, but I really enjoy that aspect of being here. I have learned so much, not even from my classes, but just being somewhere so different (although so close to home)! I hope everyone is doing well!