Winter Break 2022 Participant
Go with the flow! Even if things aren't going exactly as planned or exactly the way you want, as long as you have an open mind and a good attitude, every experience on the trip will be incredible!
Winter Break 2017 Participant
My favorite aspect of the program was the numerous opportunities to be outside and active. The zip-lining, hiking, and particularly the white water rafting were incredible experiences. The chocolate tour was also super great with chances to taste the chocolate at the various steps of the production process - with amazing spoonfuls of melted chocolate and choice of various toppings at the end. Also food!!! Some of the best fruit you'll ever have :)
Ariane Michelle Wright, Winter Break 2015 Participant
My answer won't be adequate if I limit it to favorites. For twelve days, we were immersed in an idealistic world of exploration. In a way, the experience reminded me of Darwin exploring the Galapagos, though we certainly weren't making new scientific discoveries. I do think, however, we discovered something equally as important-- discoveries on the art of living. Costa Rican natives, or Ticos, view life in the context of "Pura Vida" (the pure life). From learning and experiencing the flora of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, to whitewater rafting, to investigating a roadside fruit stand, to horseback riding, to hearing a coffee plantation owner speak of the intensive process going into one cup of coffee, to the friendships formed among our group of 25, travel writing and Costa Rica changed perspective. It helped us rediscover something often lost in the whirlwind of our busy lives -- each moment is precious and an opportunity to grow.