Study Abroad for Biology Credit

I really enjoyed doing the TESOL certification and teaching practice as part of Hibiscus Travels. My professors were very kind and knowledgeable and they were available to answer any questions. I also loved the teaching practice as I was able to practice what I learned and I was able to connect with the community of Puerto Jimenez in Costa Rica.
I really recommend this program not only because it opens job opportunities but because you are able to make a difference in the community and have a rewarding teaching experience.

Lauren made me feel so welcome from the moment I applied. The project was amazing and you are living like a local. You build a family from the moment you arrive and it’s obvious how much Lauren cares about the volunteers. The projects are sustainable long term and so rewarding, I did the marine conservation which included patrols for turtles and dolphin monitoring. I felt supported through it all and the Spanish lessons were so helpful. The food was delicious and the chef and her family make you feel at home. There is a great opportunity to learn your Spanish and experience the Costa Rican culture. Every single person I met was so friendly and welcoming and despite travelling solo I never once felt alone.

I planned to do a 2-month volunteer staying with children in the local IMAS children’s center for low income families and helping with the dogs at the domestic animal rescue. Unfortunately, Covid-19 pandemic developed after one month and a few days into my program. Luckily, the program director was efficient in quickly reacting to the situation in various ways: emergency food preparation, emergency coordination with the embassy and airport, and offered continued housing as long as I needed it for until the situation resolved. During the crisis, I especially appreciated the program director making me feel as a part of her family, she cooked all sorts of delicious local dishes for me to try out and I was able to spend quality time with her baby Sofia, watching her learn how to walk. We developed a close relationship during quarantine, spending most mornings walking and getting to know each other through the countryside and beautiful scenery. I recommend the program if you want to experience the charm of Costa Rica in daily life. The program really helps participants to immerse into the culture, make unforgettable experiences and acquaintances and also to improve or learn Spanish. At the same time you can enjoy nearby touristic attractions like going to the amazing waterfalls, enjoying time on the beach, boat trips, museums, indigenous tribes, and experiencing the local cuisine. For me it was an unforgettable, amazing experience!

It’s an excellent program to explore and volunteer, as well as learn some spanish and eat good food! Some of the activities included waterfalls, hikes, ziplining, and my personal favorite, visiting the beautiful beaches. During my time here, I felt very safe in the houses and I felt comfortable walking in the neighborhood at night when I want to get a late night snack. The program is also very structured and organized. They feed you every morning, lunch, and evening. They are also excellent at listening to your dietary needs and concerns. It’s a great program for any universities and companies who want to have a good time

If you are thinking about exploring Costa Rica this is a great program to do through your school or friends! We went to a waterfall, beaches, and zip lining. Each activity was a lot of fun and a great experience. It was so phenomenal being engulfed in this culture. While staying at this house we eat Costa Rican based food like rice and beans and many juicy fresh fruits! This trip is definitely worth it and is highly recommended for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rican culture as well as enjoying themselves.