¡Buenas! One phrase I’ve picked up in my first few days in San José is pura vida, a Costa Rican phrase which translates literally as ‘pure life’. Ticos (Costa Ricans) use it in almost any …
Costa Rica
In a month and a week
If all goes according to plan, I will be leaving the United States for the first time on June 1st. I’m happy to say that my plan to go to Costa Rica has gone from: …
Home, Sweet Home
Goodbyes were difficult, but I finally made it home. I spent my last night in Costa Rica by taking my host family out to dinner as a thank you. I also spent my last night …
Monkeys and Ants and Snakes, Oh My!
Last weekend, I went to Manuel Antonio, the world’s second most beautiful national park. The bus ride was four hours but it was well worth it. A group of students and I stayed in a …
Fire and Water
This past weekend, I hiked an active volcano, swam in hot springs, and walked through several different kinds of rainforests to see a waterfall. I guess you could say that I’m living the dream. A …
Volleyball and McFlurries
After having so many activities planned, by last weekend I was ready for a break. So instead of booking more excursions, I decided to spend a weekend at my host home to see what it …
Earthquakes and Whistles
Today was the last day of my first Spanish class. After two weeks of studying grammar, memorizing vocab, reading newspapers, and writing papers, I took my final exam. I’m extremely proud of myself for learning …
Chocolate Coffee and Deadly Beaches
On Thursday after class, the other study abroad student and I returned home after class and the house alarm went off. Most homes here have an ADT home security system despite already having metal bars …
Cockroaches and Laundry
One thing I was worried about regarding this trip was my host family. I had no idea who I would be living with until a week and a half before departure. Now that I’m here …
School Can Be…Fun?
Today was my first day of school and it was amazing. I woke up at 6:30 to get ready and have breakfast at 7. My host family “sister” drove the other study abroad student and …