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Name: Christopher
Gap Year Project: Costa Rica Cultural & Language Experience
The New Economics Foundation think tank ranks Costa Rica third on their Happy Planet Index. It's not hard to see why. For a start, they all say ‘pura vida' a lot. Thanks to my Real Gap language school experience, I can tell you that it means ‘pure life'. I'm not sure why they say it so much, but it sort of fits the mood of the place - very laid back, welcoming, and healthily detached from the stressful lifestyle of the developed world. Not that there is a sense that Costa Rica needs developing - my homestay brother Eric said to me once “the great thing about Costa Rica is that we are a third world country with a first world lifestyle”.
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The language school was probably the most fun I've had since I was about five. You get a friendly and caring homestay family who keep you well-fed and roofed, and your days are spent in the language school, which is packed with other young people from all over the world.
The standard of teaching is superb, and the atmosphere very relaxed with some of our classes conducted out in the garden.
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The school also provided salsa dance classes (with accompanying club nights), film nights, day trips and general help with anything you need - an ideal environment for making friends.
The second month was my voluntary work placement, of which there are many to choose from. I was placed in the cloud forests of Monteverde, and worked with some of the nicest people I've ever met. As with both homestays beforehand, the food was ridiculously good (I enjoyed a healthy flab boost) and the family were totally dedicated to making sure I had everything I needed.
It was rewarding on so many levels - not just feeling that you can help, but feeling sincerely appreciated, and having a chance to foster meaningful relationships that you know will impact both parties for the better.
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In general the Costa Rica is safe, welcoming and very laid back. At no point did I encounter any notable danger, nor people with bad intentions.
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Another great thing is that everyone is so good looking. Stunners left right and centre. Certainly enhances the experience on an aesthetic level, and what better excuse to practice your newly acquired Spanish, than to get friendly with the beautiful locals?
Sadly I'm quite ugly so didn't fare too well, but I think they appreciated the effort, and the ensuing rejections helped my Spanish imperatives no end. |
I would highly recommend travelling around during the weekends, and afterwards as well if you get the chance. My friend Tom and I headed up to Mexico by bus afterwards. Plenty to see and do, and what with so many other travellers doing the rounds you can just make it up as you go along - it's so much more fun that way.
Christopher
 Further information on the Culture and Language Expereince Costa Rica
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