By Erin K., Teen Delegate Scholar and AmeriSpan Blogger studying at AmeriSpan’s Alajuela Spanish school

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a school as beautiful as this one. Nestled in a valley between coffee and sugarcane plantations, it’s not at all unusual to see a family of cows wander by the classroom window.  The classrooms are simple but comfortable; one even replaces chairs with hammocks.

We get there every morning around 8:00 when the bus we meet in Carrillos drops us off outside the gate. Each week we’re assigned a new teacher and a new classroom.  The classes are so relaxed and the teachers are friendly, making everyone feel right at home even though we’re thousands of miles away from our hometowns.  One of the first days we’re there, we take a break from studying to wander through the school’s gardens.

It’s time for our lesson on “plantas medicinales,” a huge part of Costa Rican tradition. Minor, the gardener, tells us how most Costa Ricans turn to the garden before they call the doctor.  Every plant has some use, like the “sleeping plant” that folds its tiny leaves in when touched. It’s used to treat insomnia.

Most days, the first half of class is spent learning about the Preterit tense (among others) or Spanish grammar. Then after a twenty minute break, usually spent chilling in the hammocks, we learn about some aspect of Costa Rican cultures. From legends to slang, food to traditional games, the school fully immerses us in all aspects of their culture.

The school is one of the best parts of my trip so far.  The people are warm and welcoming, with the typical Tico friendliness, and I’m learning more than I’ve ever learned during summer vacation. The campus is like a paradise with its sprawling gardens and panoramic views of the mountains.  I don’t know how I’ll be able to go home to Wisconsin now.

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Find out how you can learn Spanish in Costa Rica

The first adjustment:  nearly everyone spoke English to me at the San José airport.  Like some of the more tourist-oriented towns, the prices switched to dollars.  While I understood when the airport staff converted to the prices to colones, I still wondered why they said "thousand" instead of "mil" for the amount. 

The size of a movie poster at the Dallas airport threw me off, too.  Being able to understand every single word around me – whether I wanted to or not – overwhelmed me.  While I understand quite a bit of Spanish, I can still screen out the meaning if I'm not concentrating on the person speaking.  

At times, I've found adjusting back to the United States to be more difficult because I expect it to feel more familiar.  After all, I'm home.  I've missed this place and the people.  Why then, am I wishing that I could walk to the park in Heredia?  Or that I could walk through the door and see the smiling faces of the customer service staff at Intercultura?  It even feels strange not to be a foreigner anymore.

Now that I'm back in San Diego and still have fresh memories, let's rewind back to the final Friday.  Graduation, a ceremony done for all departing students, was sweet.  Since it was the end of the semester, there were several heartfelt goodbyes for students who had been there for several months.  Everyone gave a short speech, thanking the school's staff for their time.  It felt a bit unreal.  Several weeks ago, it felt like I had all the time in the world.  At that moment, however, the time was slipping away. 

After graduation and before my final afternoon class, I explored the stalls of Christmas market at the local park with a new friend.  Artisans and retailers alike had their wares displayed, everything from jewelry to bubble wands.  We bought some jewelry, then my friend realized that I hadn't been to a local bakery chain.  "You must have this experience before leaving Costa Rica," she said, and I tried something that resembled a danish with guanabana jelly and cream cheese. 

In my class that afternoon, we watched a movie, La Lengua de Mariposas (simply titled "Butterfly" en Inglés).  It was the first time I had watched a movie with Spanish subtitles.  I was amazed with how much I could understand.  The more I learn, the more I realize how much more there is to learn – more vocabulary, more time to practice and implement what I have gained within these past few weeks.  The movie was sweet, sad, and profound.  We discussed the film, and then wrapped up our class with several parting activities.

"…Que tenga más confianza, y esté mas feliz.  Que le vaya bien" were some of the parting wishes of the teachers and staff.  I took a few last pictures, lingering for a moment on details of the school setting:  the decoraciónes navideñas, the flowers in the courtyard in the last light of the day, and the welcoming lobby of the school. 

I took a deep breath, then walked the blocks back to la casa for a final time.  For all the challenges I have faced throughout this experience, I truly believe that it has been worth it.  I have not only grown as a person, but I have also realized how much I want Spanish to continue to have a place in my life.  I truly love the language, and I am certain that it will open up doors for me both personally and professionally.

If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend taking yourself out of the context of your own culture and language.  Whether you have two weeks, a month, or several, it can be the experience of a lifetime.

¡Pura Vida y Adiós! 

Read all of Jennie's blogs from Heredia

Find out more about Spanish study abroad

Sámara Beach, or "Playa Sámara", is a small beach town in South Guanacaste, Costa Rica that has lots to offer the student craving Costa Rica study abroad. While it is not a "resort town" by any means, the town offers plenty of opportunities to explore and practice Spanish, not to mention restaurants/"sodas", shops, nightlife and even a couple homespun galleries and animal refuges.

1. Don't be an "Ugly American"!
Costa Rican people, or "Ticos", are famously friendly and open people. Keep in mind that you are visiting their home, and that amenities are more modest here compared to American standards. Costa Rica tends to be pretty clean and laid back, in fact its motto is "Pura vida!" or, loosely translated, "Live life to the fullest!". Relax, be patient, be environmentally conscious and enjoy your surroundings.

2. Be open to new experiences!
Perhaps at home you wouldn't normally go on a hike or kayak trip. But Samara (and Costa Rica in general) is abundant in unique wildlife and plantlife, and there are so many mesmerizing views to be seen and once in a life time opportunities to be had – take advantage of them. Shutterbugs, snorkelers, animal lovers, beach bums and rainforest adventurers alike will find something fun to do, so look around and see what's going on! The school staff is happy to suggest things to do and even organizes some excursions (in addition to regular dance and cooking classes!).

3. Travel healthfully
Because of its proximity to the equator, Costa Rica packs a powerful punch when it comes to being in the sun. There are plenty of covered areas and shade from palm trees at the school and on the beach, but for those times relaxing or exploring in the sun it's best to stay hydrated and wear plenty of sunscreen. Also, some people choose to receive shots, so consult your doctor or the CDC before your trip.

4. Find new ways to practice your Spanish
You will learn plenty of new vocabulary and get tons of practice at school and with your homestay family, but don't feel limited to those locations! Though many people do speak English around town, many do not, and even those who do might prefer Spanish anyway. Be brave and ask for a drink at a bar, or visit the "farmacia" if you need a band-aid or sunscreen.

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See my other posts about Samara

By Guest Blogger Johanna G., Heredia Junior Immersion program participant

In this video, Johanna videotapes a tour guide at a local museum discussing the mystery of "Las Spheras", or "the spheres" that were found in the area long ago. As you can tell, the tour guide is very knowledgable and entertaining! AmeriSpan's Teen programs abroad offer plenty of fun and educational opportunities for teens to take advantage of in their free time between classes!

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Check out AmeriSpan's Teenager programs abroad

By La' India S., a Teen Delegate participating in AmeriSpan's Coronado Independent Teen program

My last week in Costa Rica was a fun but tragic moment. We got new students on Tuesday. There were three from France and one from Germany. They were friendly.

 On Wednesday, My teacher took us on a trip to "El Museo de Los Ninos." We each were given an assignment to listen and explain later(in Spanish) what we learned about that subject. My assignment was El edificio(the building).The building used to be a prison for men years ago. We also learned about the culture of Costa Rica and how modern foods and objects they used evolved. Another subject we learned about was the banana and coffee in Costa Rica. Costa Rica has a rich culture and produce great products countries all over the world use. The museum had a great variety and objects to touch, feel, and read about for kids. I really enjoyed it. Afterwards, my friend Jessica and I walked around San Jose and went to a cafe for lunch.

On Thursday, Jessica and I went to our favorite cafe once again called Kaffa Cafe. We got a quick dessert and met Victoria(a new student from France) and went to San Jose. We walked around for a while and went to another mercado next to the national museum. I brought a beautiful lizard bracelet.

Friday was my last day and night in Costa Rica. At school we went to class and afterwards everyone gathered to say farewell to those leaving. I was among those saying goodbye to Costa Rica read my farewell speech and received my completion certificate. Next, Jessica Valentine went to Kaffa cafe one last time.Then we took a bus and taxi to a mall in San Pedro. Afterwards we each hugged each other tight and kissed each other goodbye since all three of us were leaving this weekend. I didn't get to say goodbye to my host parents or host sisters. Only my host brother was there when I left. I was upset, but a little excited to come home. My last night I wrote every member in my host family an individual letter even though I know some of my grammar was incorrect. They slipped a letter under my door thanking me and saying how much they enjoyed me there and that I will always have a family in Costa Rica. I miss them a lot already.

When the driver came to get me from the house, I put my stuff in the car and kissed and hugged my host brother goodbye. As we pulled out the gate onto the road I tried my best to hold back tears, but sometimes trying isn't enough. A few tears fell as I thought of leaving the country that taught me so much. Costa Rica is a country that I have such a strong cultural connection with. They have American ways but still incorporate their culture in the foods, daily life, and teaching. I love Costa Rica and will make sure I return shortly. I will never forget the people I have met or what the teachers at school have taught me. As we took off in the air in the plane, I looked back till the beautiful small country of Costa Rica was out of sight. One tear dropped but a smile appeared simultaneously. I truly lived the Pura Vida.

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See all of La'India's blogs from Coronado

By Bradley R., guest blogger studying Spanish in Heredia and Samara Beach, two of AmeriSpan's most popular Costa Rica Spanish schools

The food in Costa Rica isn't particularly revolutionary, although I enjoy it greatly.  As one might expect of any Latin country, the most common staple is rice, with black beans as a close second.  Nearly every meal, breakfast to dinner, includes at least a small portion of each.

The typical breakfast is often called Gallo Pinto, although technically Gallo Pinto refers to the black beans and rice with added flavorings that is omnipresent here.  It can be served with everything from eggs and sausage or bacon to pancakes, french toast, or tortillas–as long as they are fried.  Fresh fruit and juices are almost always a part of breakfast, especially at home, and there is a stupefying selection of fruits and juices that are readily available and delicious.  Possibly most important to Gallo Pinto is the addition of a Costa Rican sauce, Salsa Lizano, that is somewhat like ketchup but with chiles rather than tomatoes.  It is not spicy, and available at every restaurant.  The author of my guide book reported a popular saying in Central America along the lines of "Where there are Costa Ricans, there is freedom"–this due to the country's history of stable government and lack of a military–and compared it to the slogan of the Lizano company, "Where there are Costa Ricans, there is Salsa Lizano."  He quipped that he found these two sayings to be equally true, and I agree.

The normal lunch for many Ticos, especially those working outside of the home, is a Casado, which is a platter available in the local form of a greasy spoon restaurant, called a Soda. It includes rice and beans, three or four small sides, fresh juice, and a choice of beef, pork, chicken, fish, or vegetables as the primary dish.  All of them are fried.  I have found Casados to be uniformly delicious, if uninspiring.  The common sides include french fries, potatoes, fried yucca, shredded cabbage and carrots, beet salad, fried squash, lettuce salad, and a second helping of beans.  The going rate is $5 in very busy areas, and $4 off the beaten path, and at either price a huge amount of food and a great deal.

Dinner seems to vary much more than the earlier meals, but is almost sure to include rice and/or tortillas.  My host family has yet to serve me something a second time, making it difficult to identify any further trends, so instead I will just name a few spectacular dinners that stick out: spaghetti and tomato sauce topped with an unheated sauce of oil, fresh tomatos, and a ton of garlic; hamburgers whose patties were made with a number of vegetables and spices, and which were topped off with bacon, avocado, a fried egg, and Salsa Lizano; black bean soup with fried eggs, plantains, and a large chunk of a vegetable that had the texture of a beet and the flavor of a slightly sweetened potato, but which was neither beet nor potato (with rice of course); and lastly Gallo Pinto with a shredded cabbage, beet, and tomato salad, topped with spicy sausage and served with quail eggs.

Lastly, I would like to make special mention of the Empanada de Chiverre, which is a small, unfrosted turnover filled with the fruit Chiverre.  It is popular during holy week.  My google search informs me that it is similar to spaghetti squash, but this seems dubious. The flavor is most similar to that of a date or a fig, with a similar texture.  Regardless, try one.

Read all of Bradley's blogs from Costa Rica

Learn more about AmeriSpan's several  Costa Rica Spanish schools

By Jennie M., guest blogger learning Spanish in Heredia, Costa Rica

After three weeks of intensive Spanish classes, I needed a weekend away from Heredia.  Where would I go?  I had been to the rainforest, and taken day trips to San José and the surrounding area.  Then it hit me:  I hadn't yet been to a beach while in Costa Rica, and this was my last chance this time around.  When I heard that that week's tour group was heading to Montezuma, I packed a bag and headed off for a weekend of relaxation and fun. 

Montezuma is located near the southern tip of the Nicoya Penisula on the Pacific Coast.  We took a beautiful ferry ride across the Golfo de Nicoya from Puntarenas (a little less than two hours west of Heredia), and then drove the rest of the way through the forest to Montezuma.

When I arrived at the hotel, I knew I had made the right decision.  Our hotel was located right on the beach, and there were hammocks suspended between the trees.

We quickly dropped off our luggage and took a hike to a nearby waterfall.  We had to cross the creek, scrambling over rocks.  Tall trees rose above either side. The waterfall itself was well worth the climb.  We swam in the refreshing water, then made our way back down.  

That night, the sky was completely clear and we could see the stars.  After spending so much time in cities, it was wonderful to be somewhat removed. 

The next day, it was incredible to wake up to the sound of the waves against the beach.  We caught a boat to Isla Tortuga for an amazing day of snorkeling and spending time at the beach.  Although the water was somewhat cloudy, I saw several different kinds of colorful fish.
 
The water near the island was the beautiful color of turquesa.  After lunch on the island, I spent more time in the water, enjoying the mild temperature.  I looked over at the rocks, and watched crabs scuttle back and forth.  It was an invigorating and relaxing day. 

Montezuma is small town.  It includes two main beaches, a central park, restaurants, hotels, shops, and one ATM.  What I have discovered about popular tourist locations in Costa Rica is that you often have to insist on speaking Spanish. The staff at the shops and restaurants are accustomed to catering to English-speaking tourists.  They don't always ask what language you would prefer to speak, so it is almost too easy to fall back on English.  I was glad that our guide talked to us mostly in Spanish and encouraged us to answer his questions in kind. 

On Sunday morning, I got up early in hopes of seeing monkeys (monos).   I was rewarded not only by the sight of monkeys, but also a beautiful sunrise. In terms of monkeys, I found several hanging out around a bus stop. There were even a few mothers with their babies.  After swinging through the trees, they scrambled across the the power lines before disappearing from sight.  After breakfast, I took a walk with a friend and came across even more. They were hanging out around a restaurant, swinging through the trees and begging the patrons for food.

After watching the monkeys argue over food for awhile, I needed more time by the beach.  I spread out my towel on the Playa Grande and ran into the waves. 

After I packed to head back to Heredia, I spent the last few minutes in the hammock, rocking back and forth.  The weekend was a perfect break.  I returned from the trip ready to tackle my last week of classes with a clearer mind. 

Learn more about AmeriSpan's Costa Rica Spanish schools

Read all of Jennie's blogs from Heredia

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See AmeriSpan's Heredia Junior Immersion

 See all of Johanna G.'s video blogs

See AmeriSpan's Heredia Junior Immersion

By La' India S., a Teen Delegate participating in AmeriSpan's Coronado Independent Teen program

My first week in Costa Rica has been amazing! The school is smaller than I expected but beautiful. The surrounding scenery is full of trees and flowers. The teachers are nice and helpful. They have one goal and that is to teach us as much Spanish as they can and help us learn about Costa Rican culture as well as other Latin American cultures in today’s society. In class we review verbs, culture, and play games to help us remember and use what we have learned. Each night,  we receive homework, or “tarea”, that leads us into discussion for the next day and helps us with our conversation skills. My daily schedule starts by waking up at 6:30 am. I take a shower and get dressed and breakfast, or “el desayuno”, as we say here, is at 7:30 am. At 7:45 am, I walk to school and classes begin at 8:00 am and go until 11.40 am. After school, I walk home with friends. We usually go to the cafe close by or an ice cream shop called POPS. The ice cream is amazing! I always get the same thing, a vanilla caramel sundae with whipped cream and nuts on top.

My host family reminds me of my family back home. They are helpful and supportive. Here, I have one brother, two sisters and a father and mother. My two sisters are twins. They are playful and friendly. The whole family keeps me laughing. We also have a French poodle named “Poli”. For breakfast, we eat fresh fruit and bread with butter or cream cheese. For dinner, we have a variety of foods. My first day, we had Gallo Pinto for breakfast. Gallo pinto is a typical Costa Rican dish for breakfast or lunch. It consist of rice and beans with sour cream and a fried egg. It is very delicious. They also showed me around the town of Coronado. It is a small town but has lots of small shops, cafes and restaurants. Coronado is famous in Costa Rica for the church in center of the town.

This weekend, my classmates and I went to Puerto Viajo, Costa Rica. It is located on the East side of Costa Rica. It is also called Pura Vida and the Caribbean side. We stayed in cabins called “cabinas” and went to the beach and shopped. The beach was unbelievable. The water was crystal clear and there were coconut trees everywhere. Also, the food was very good. There were a lot of rice and beans and chicken and plantains. The people were very friendly and helpful. They had Jamaican colors and Bob Marley everywhere. The men had dreadlocks and dark skin. It felt like a whole different country. It was the ultimate vacation!

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