This is my 7th program that I have completed as a PM.  I enjoy these programs as I meet phenomenal students and amazing staff. I can safely say this has been one of the best student groups I have been associated with.

We met roughly 24 days ago. Over that time, I have witnessed new friendships develop and your relationships improve with your son’s/daughter’s teacher. They have become expert travelers.  

If they are disappointed that the program is almost over, that’s a good thing as it means we as a staff have done our jobs well and the students have fully immersed themselves in the program.

I am hoping that they have created new friendships that will continue for many years, maybe a lifetime.  They have had the opportunity to participate in many amazing excursions that have created great memories.

To the staff, Angela, Dave, Jen, Marina, Paul and Sarah. We did not know each other prior to this program.  I have enjoyed every minute that I’ve spent with you, and I will miss our daily breakfast and dinner conversations. You are phenomenal educators, and I appreciated your support.

The students had a very enjoyable final banquet that included slide shows, an amazing meal, dancing, and night walk along the beach to a bonfire.  A pool party completed the evening.

I would be remiss to not thank our Costa Rican hosts during this adventure.  Mariam, Erik, Mario Jr (Martino), Colorado Paul and Olga.  

To you, the students, this will be your final time together as a group.

As always be safe, enjoy the experience but make smart decisions.

Pura Vida,

Jeremy

Students had the opportunity to volunteer at Halfway Home Tamarindo. They spent the morning making some new furry friends and helping out by walking and bathing them. Safe to say it was hard to say goodbye!

What a day! We chased some waterfalls and went on a walk through an animal sanctuary. Students got to see sloths and toucans. Then, we got a coffee and chocolate demonstration and even got to crush sugar cane to make some juice.

We headed to the town of Tamarindo for our optional surfing excursion! Students really enjoyed getting out on the water, after a brief lesson on the basics. Some students even expressed that it’s one of their favourite activities we’ve done so far! Pura vida!

Students had the option to participate in a cooking class today, led by one of our providers, Mariam. We used fresh ingredients from Costa Rica to make tortilla chips, plantain chips, guacamole, and salsa. It was a great opportunity to learn some new recipes to bring back home!

Here are some photos from the learning happening here in Costa Rica! From biology on the beach to learning the quadratic formula by the pool, students are working hard to balance their academics and their fun under the Costa Rican sun. We are so proud of their progress thus far.

We arrived in Arenal on Sunday and were amazed by the volcano views. Before supper, we had time to hit the water park and enjoy some natural hot springs. Tuesday involved hiking to the summit of the volcano and learning about the species that surround it. Students were lucky enough to see some Howler Monkeys!

Hola:

We are at the halfway part of the August Costa Rica program.  The students have hiked though the Cloud Forest of Monteverde, swam in the Pacific Ocean in Playas Del Coco, and hiked to the base of the Arenal Volcano.  We have been spoiled with authentic Costa Rican cuisine prepared by Mariam, Erik, and Mario Jr. (our hosts in Playas del Coco). Many new friendships have been made and I think the students have come to enjoy our communal breakfasts and dinners.

I hope you have been following the “Blog” and Instagram posts from Sarah (Activity Coordinator) detailing the daily activities of the students.

The last two weeks will be busy with class activities and the last optional excursions leading up to the final banquet prior to our return to Toronto.

Pura Vida,

Jeremy

Program Manager

August Costa Rica

Students had the option to head to Playa Conchal and Playas Hermosas. They got to ride horses on the beautiful white sand and ride the banana boat. It was a gorgeous day for some fun in the sun!

Students had the opportunity to scuba and snorkel in the Pacific Ocean! They saw so much marine life. From reef sharks and sea turtles to coral beds! We ended the day on the water with a beautiful sunset.