Speaking Spanish ?

[sded]

For speaking to the locals I have found the night school courses in Spanish Conversation to be the most useful. You learn enough grammar to use a dictionary as an aid, and speak on enough subjects to get by with patience. And can usually even get help from the teacher on unusual subjects of interest. Usually repeating an intermediate course several times seems to be the most useful. It is also a cheap way to learn, and even supports your schools.

[s/v Beth]

BTW- there is a spanish immersion school in Veracruz, just off the marina. 500+ dollars a week for food, living with a family and daily lessons. Not bad.
I wonder if they would give you a discount if you slept in your own boat?