This information is intended to answer some questions you might have regarding the Los Embajadores experience – to find out more ask your group’s Trip Director, or contact us.

Water
• As you have probably heard, it is not wise to drink the water in Mexico. Even Mexican locals do not drink the tap water; nearly ever home has purified water on hand. All of the homes in which our groups eat use purified water. We also have purified water at all our sites. Each participant should be certain to bring a personal water bottle. Staying hydrated is very important, as participants work outside in the sun each day. It is also not advisable to use tap water for brushing your teeth or washing food. When water is needed for cooking, all of the sites at which we eat use purified or ionized water. Washing dishes with the water, however, does not present any risks or potential problems as they are thoroughly dried before being used.

  Sickness

• On occasion participants do have difficulties, such as minor upset stomachs, constipation, or diarrhea, as they adjust to the food we are eating in Mexico. It is important to realize these problems, if they do occur, are not due to any inherent problems with the food: it is not bad or spoiled. Rather this naturally occurs as one adjusts to a new diet, as well as changes in our daily routine. Most of us are not accustomed to eating beans two to three times each day, so at times it takes a bit of time to adjust to digesting this food. It is also important to realize that after a week in Mexico, people might need some time to re-adjust to their usual food choices at home.

  Dress Code

• Because we are “Ambassadors” it is important that we are careful regarding how we portray ourselves. With this in mind, participants should not wear tank-tops, cut off shirts, or sleeveless shirts. Their shorts should be modest, rising no more than three inches above the knee when leaning over. Modest dress allows us to avoid standing out, thus helping us to become more immersed in our host culture.
• Please bring a pair of thick-soled shoes for working.
• If you wear contacts, bring glasses as a back-up. Bathroom facilities are limited, so you might want to plan on wearing your glasses for the days that we are in Mexico.

  Sun Protection

• Everyone must wear sunscreen, SPF #15 or higher. Even on overcast days, there is a high risk of sunburn, which can make the remaining days of your trip quite uncomfortable. Sunglasses with UV protection and a hat are also necessary. Never leave for the worksite without them.

  Medication

• Any participant on medication must inform their group leader. Please make group leaders aware of any health complications that may arise while you are in Mexico. All prescriptions must be in their original bottle with directions from the doctor. An extra bottle for emergencies must be given to the adult in your group who's in charge of first aid.
• If you wear contacts, bring glasses as a back-up. Bathroom facilities are limited, so you might want to plan on wearing your glasses for the days that we are in Mexico.

  Safety on Site

• No group member will be allowed to wander off by him or herself at any point during the trip. An adult leader must accompany any youth leaving the group. In the past, individuals have been sent home for wandering off.

  Get your Rest!

• Please come to us well rested before our departure date. You will be traveling in the van for at least two days and it is important to be healthy and in a good mood for the trip.
• Each participant must have a medical physical and have their doctor fill out the medical form: your group leader must have this form on hand during the trip in case of an emergency. Ask your doctor about hepatitis and tetanus shots. Tell him where you are going and what you are doing and ask if he recommends these or any other vaccinations. The final decision on these matters should be made in conjunction with each individual's medical professional.