This summer, under the leadership of Dr. Rebecca Howes, Spanish teacher, students embarked on a life-changing 17-day cultural and educational journey through Heredia and Sámara, Costa Rica. Dr. Howes was joined by chaperones David Berry, Student Services, and Josephine Sanchéz, Spanish teacher, along with Ms. Sanchéz’s husband, Rafael Sanchéz, in guiding students through a transformative experience filled with immersive learning, unforgettable adventures, and meaningful connections with Costa Rican communities.

Living the Culture

Students stayed with host families in both Heredia and Sámara, experiencing authentic Costa Rican life, language, and hospitality. From shared meals to daily routines, these homestays provided a personal window into the local culture.

Weekend Adventures

• Isla Tortuga: The first weekend kicked off with a visit to the beautiful Isla Tortuga, where students snorkeled vibrant reefs, rode the iconic banana boat, hiked scenic trails, and picked up local souvenirs.
• Doka Coffee Plantation & La Paz Gardens: The following day included a guided tour of the historic Doka Coffee Plantation and an afternoon at La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Tropical Animal Refuge, where students explored Costa Rica’s diverse flora and fauna.

Cultural & Language Immersion

Weekdays were devoted to language learning and cultural exploration:

• Spanish Classes: Four hours daily of immersive Spanish instruction helped students sharpen their skills through real-world practice.
• Hands-On Activities:
  • Dance Class: Students learned the vibrant steps of the Bachata.
  • Cooking Class: They rolled up their sleeves to make traditional empanadas costarricenses.
  • Community Service: At local daycare centers, students played soccer, puzzles, and classic games like hide and seek and duck-duck-goose with young children—fostering bonds through play.

Exploring Natural Wonders

The second weekend brought awe-inspiring natural beauty:

• La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano: Students soaked in hot springs heated by the Arenal Volcano and cruised across Lake Arenal.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest: A zip lining adventure through the cloud forest and a thrilling nocturnal wildlife tour highlighted the weekend.

Coastal Life in Sámara

In Sámara, students embraced life by the sea with daily Spanish classes and ocean-based activities like surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and yoga. A beach clean-up with local NGO, CREAR provided a chance to give back. Evenings often ended with beach volleyball, deepening friendships with locals through sport and laughter.

Looking Ahead

This marks ESJ’s second successful trip to Costa Rica—and the impact was profound. “As we look to 2027, we are excited to explore new possibilities, including partnerships with coral reef conservation projects. This future opportunity promises an interdisciplinary approach, uniting our science and Spanish programs in a shared mission of global citizenship,” said Dr. Howes.