Due to the sudden deterioration of Ecuador’s civil situation, the CHS trip to Ecuador was unfortunately canceled, due to safety concerns. However, CHS Spanish teacher Laurel Landrum – organizer of the Ecuador trip – has a backup plan: a trip to Costa Rica.
“Costa Rica is like a tropical paradise,” Landrum said. “There’s a unique world view there. It’s super laid back, and people aren’t constantly striving to get ahead. That’s something that can really provide students with a different perspective.”
Starting from San Jose, the journey will unfold with an exploration of volcanic landscapes up north. The attraction site includes hot springs and a thrilling zipline experience.
“It’s a popular activity,” Landrum said. “They put you in a swing. They just push you off the platform. It’s what they call the swing of death. But students can also participate in nearby water parks and hot springs.”
After an exciting start, students will engage in an exchange with a school, making new friends and connecting with students from a different cultural background. The itinerary also includes a visit to an indigenous community, featuring rainforest hikes and discussions on medicinal plants. Students will then head to Sarapiqui and explore local craft shops. Students will also learn the process of making chocolates from an organic farm, finishing off with a tour to La Fortuna, a beautiful waterfall within a rainforest. Lastly, students will head toward the shore. Students will encounter local wildlife and enjoy local tropical fruit tasting at Manuel Antonio, a natural park in Costa Rica
One of the trip’s goals is to help students appreciate the importance of nature conservation. Costa Rica is recognized worldwide for its achievements in reversing deforestation and responsibly managing its natural resources. Throughout the trip, students will have the opportunity to gain insight into alternative lifestyles and integrate them into their own way of living.
“Taking care of nature in Costa Rica is of utmost importance,” Landrum said. “It’s interesting to see that be a part of everybody’s everyday life.”
In addition to the amazing views and exposure of awareness, students have been put into a Spanish-speaking environment to enhance their communication skills.
“I care about having some exposure to real-world Spanish,” Landrum said. “It’s hard to recreate a situation in the classroom. In Costa Rica, you have to buy a ticket or a soda, it makes the Spanish stick in a student’s mind a lot better. It gives you an appreciation for communication across the world.”
Landrum also expressed her gratitude for the local tourist guide that provides students with this valuable opportunity to Costa Rica.
“I have an appreciation for how much English they learned,” siad Landrum. “I think it’s nice to give a little Spanish back to them.”
While the trip promises amusing activities and new cultural experiences to all the students, they should also consider the trip’s cost and what it includes. The base price is around $4,100 for airfare, lodging, activities and two meals a day. However, student’s personal purchases and insurance are not included in the base price. If students are planning on buying souvenirs and local snacks, the expected spending will certainly be higher.
The difference between the climate of Costa Rica and Michigan is a factor students needed to consider before going on the trip. Unlike Michigan, Costa Rica’s temperature stays relatively the same throughout the year. The average annual temperature is between 80° and 90° in Costa Rica. It is important to dress according to the climate of a new country.
Due to the sudden cancellation of the Ecuador trip, Costa Rica might seem unexpected. However, it still offers valuable opportunities for students to widen their horizons and learn new perspectives in life.
“I really have worked hard to find a trip that is a good value,” Landrum said. “I do think that traveling, especially traveling alone when you’re at this age is kind of life-changing. It can give you goals that you didn’t know you had before. It improves your worldview. There are a lot of things that you can’t truly appreciate about different cultures unless you’re there.”
Currently, the deadline for signup of the trip is Feb. 15 with a base price of $4,100. The price for the trip could increase after the deadline.
