What was the homestay accommodation really like?

I just got back from Costa Rica after continuing my travels post Tico Lingo.

Regarding the homestay, I really liked my family! The house wasn't the nicest place I've ever stayed, but the people I shared that time with were. They had so much patience with my terrible Spanish and took me out multiple times dancing in Heredia and out into the mountains for some nature. The food was great too, and yes, I had siblings. I had two younger brothers (18 and 20) and they helped me so much with local slang and vocabulary. Really an awesome expereince at a great price. I'd highly recommend it!

Hey Molly!

We go the extra mile to make sure each Homestay family is a perfect match for each student. Before students arrive we conduct a short interview with them to get a feel for their personality and what type of experience they want through living with a family. Some students like to use their time at home to study and work, while others like to be social with their families and go out during the week. All the same, some families really like students who want to go out every week night, while some families are more relaxed and like to give students their space. It really depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.

One thing we can say about each family is that each is home to at least three members (one of which is a guaranteed phenomenal chef), each is within walking distance of the school, and each has gone through our Homestay registration process that reviews the family, their home, and they neighborhood they live in.

If you have any further questions about the Tico Lingo Homestay Program I'd recommend you check out this page: http://www.ticolingo.com/lodging/home-stay-program or giving us a call directly!

Thanks Molly!

-Chris

Chris Reidy
Program Director | Tico Lingo
www.ticolingo.com

I'm so glad I decided to stay with a family during my studies at Tico Lingo.

I can be pretty introverted at times, so I was nervous about living with a family that expected me to socialize. My homestay mom was super outgoing and friendly, but she always respected my space and wouldn't get offended if I didn't take up her offer to go out to karaoke. But really that was kind of the best part- she offered and wanted to give me a great experience in Costa Rica! When we did go out, we took pictures together and she was so happy to introduce me to her family, friends, and neighbors and call me her hija :)

I had two brothers as well, both in their 20s, who were also super nice and willing to help me learn Spanish or just watch soccer on TV. I was so very grateful for their patience while I fumbled with my words.

The food was also amazing. My mom happily provided breakfast before classes, and made sure to have dinner ready shortly after I got home. We kept in contact during the day in case class went late or I joined classmates on an adventure, and she was always so accommodating and flexible to meet my needs. Plus, her patacones were the bomb!

There were a bunch of other little things that totally added up and made my stay so comfortable- like washing my clothes, making my bed every day, and packing a meal for me if I was running late. The bang for my buck was incredible! Totally worth it, 10/10 would do again in a heartbeat!