Work Group FAQ

What sort of identification do I need to bring?

As of January 2008 passports will be required to re-enter the U.S.  Until then, a driver license will suffice.  While in Mexico, keep your photo ID/passport on you or in a safe place. Our campus has a gated area to park your vehicles but never leave anything in your vehicle, regardless of where it is parked.

Where will we be sleeping?

Our facilities are basic.  You will be sleeping on a concrete floor inside the Castillo therefore pillows, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads are highly recommended.

What do we do about meals?

We have a kitchen with a stove and large refrigerator. We will provide your group with clean drinking water.  We recommend you bring food to eat breakfast here, and an easy packable lunch (you may eat at the Castillo or on a job site). We hope that your group will eat out at night and enjoy the delicious food available in the city.  Our staff will take you to the best restaurants and taco stands Tijuana has to offer. Please keep in mind that most restaurants are cash only. An average meal costs $5.00 per person (for tacos and a soda).  Shopping for food may be done in Tijuana or in the States.  There are several large grocery stores and a Costco on both sides of the border. Or, for a learning experience you may want to try a local farmers market where you can find almost anything you may need for your stay.

Do we need to bring an interpreter?

It is not necessary to bring an interpreter, usually you will find someone nearby who speaks English and is happy to help you.

Where will we shower?

There are clean banos (showers) near our campus for $3.50 a person; this includes towels and soap. Bring shoes to shower in.

What is an average workday like?

The first thing to remember when looking at the schedule is to remain flexible because things don’t always go as planned down here.  Depending on the size of your group, we may split you up and do several projects at once. A normal day looks like this:

6:30-7:00 am                       wake up

7:00-7:30 am                       quite time, personal devotions

7:30-8:00 am                       breakfast & clean up

8:15-9:30 am                       worship (bring your own musicians) & teaching

9:30 am                              work assignments given

5:00 pm                              meet at Castillo, clean up & go eat dinner

* after dinner we recommend a debriefing time

10:00-11:00 pm                   quite time

11:00 pm                            lights out

On Sunday morning you have the option to attend a local church. 

What is the weather like at the Castillo?

The weather is similar to that of San Diego. The summer averages around 70-80 degrees during the day with hotter temperatures as you go east.  Evenings can be cool.  Temperatures during the winter months can be 50 degrees during the day and near freezing during the night.  Groups coming in the spring and winter should bring warm bedding.

Is it safe to walk around Tijuana?

There are many interesting things to explore and learn from in Tijuana, however, as in any large city, there is crime. The best way to avoid problems is to stay in groups when walking around. Girls must always have another person with them when walking, preferably a male.