Program Reviews

I never imagined that a simple Instagram ad would lead to one of the most life-changing experiences of my life. Out of curiosity, I applied to Toucan Abroad, not knowing that this one decision—at the perfect time—would set me on a path to meeting some of the greatest and most amazing people in this world.

This internship was more than just an opportunity to shadow incredible physical therapists and learn fascinating techniques across different clinics—it was an adventure, an experience that shaped me in ways I never expected. I never thought I’d make lifelong friends while halfway across the world, but that’s exactly what happened. The memories we made together, the laughter, the late-night talks, the shared awe of experiencing a new culture—it’s something I’ll cherish forever.

Meeting and getting to know Phil was an absolute privilege. He had this way of always keeping the mood light, making us laugh, and somehow always knowing exactly what to say. Whether he realized it or not, his words inspired me and pushed me to be the best version of myself. I’ll always look up to him for that.

Writing this review took me a while because putting these thoughts into words makes it feel like this experience, those moments, and all of our adventures together are now officially just memories. And while I constantly look back at photos and videos, trying to relive every second, I am beyond grateful that I took this leap. Toucan Abroad changed my life, and if you’re ready to take that same leap of curiosity, I know it will change yours too.

I absolutely loved my time in Cartago this January. The directors were friendly and supportive, I became close with many of my peers on the trip, and I was able to learn so much about both physical therapy and the Costa Rican culture. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a way to get out of their comfort zone, but still be in a safe and supportive environment. The experiences I had in Costa Rica are truly unforgettable and I look forward to an opportunity to go back some day!

My 2 week experience has definitely been more impactful and meaningful than the last few years of my undergraduate career has been. I’m very glad I embarked on this journey and would do it 10x over. I was nervous at first and came in with 0 expectations, and I left with so much admiration from all the peers I met and for the PTs I got to shadow. It was amazing learning the parallel between the US and Costa Rica and how I can bring their culture and world view I my campus. I loved my time there and wish I could stay longer PURA VIDA

Toucan Abroad was an experience of a lifetime. It really helped me grow my love for becoming a Physical therapist by allowing me to be more hands-on in the clinics. The PTs you shadow are amazing, answer any questions you have, and will try their best to include you in every patient visit. The vacation side of Toucan Abroad is fantastic, Costa Rica is a beautiful country to explore and the directors really try to plan so much so that you get the best experience and see everything. You also meet students all over the U.S. and grow relationships that will last a lifetime in just a short period.

I had an amazing experience traveling to Costa Rica. I was initially nervous about traveling alone but the moment I stepped onto the bus both the directors and students on the trip made me feel right at home. My days were constantly packed with activities to do and the physical therapists we shadowed truly went out of their way to make us feel comfortable and teach us new things. Shadowing at the neurological clinic during my time there inspired me to apply to do neurological research this summer! I grew so much both personally and professionally over the two weeks and this is truly a trip I will remember forever.

This program was the best thing I could have ever done! Not only am I learning and getting hands on experience in Physical Therapy settings but I also get the opportunity to immerse in a different culture. I got to create meaningful connections and memories. The directors made this experience 10 times better. The activities were amazing experiences. I literally got to do over 5 different excursions. They offer so many opportunities to explore and see different parts of Costa Rica. I think there was a good balance of work and free time.

This was some of the best 2 weeks I’ve ever had. There were so many opportunities to do things I’ve never done before. They cost money however in the grand scheme of things It’s not super expensive when you think about what’s being offered. The group was super cool and friendly and the directors were some of the coolest people I’ve ever met. They really did a great job making sure we enjoy the trip by helping is with stuff to do and where to eat. There’s stuff for everyone so there will always be something fun to do.

Toucan Abroad is the perfect mix of education and adventure. Throughout the time that I spent in Costa Rica I practiced at three different Physical Therapy Clinics, each one with its own specialization. Each clinic offers a variety of hands-on practice with both manual therapy and equipment. There is opportunity to work in all areas of Physical Therapy ranging from geriatric, athletic, pediatric, special needs, and more. After a full week of shadowing, there is still time to see what else the beautiful Costa Rica has to offer. We traveled to both the Caribbean coast and the Pacific coast for our weekend excursions. Both of these were phenomenal experiences leaving unforgettable memories. Overall, I can not thank Toucan Abroad enough for the opportunity to learn so much about Physical Therapy with unmatched hands-on practice, experience the beauty of this country, and for the life-long friendships that were made along the way!

This experience was amazing from the clinical hours to the weekends trips!!The therapist’s were so welcoming and taught me so many different therapy techniques. My most memorable moments during clinic was at Salud Vital was working out in the pool that was given by Juliana (physical therapist).From the interactions with patients made me realize the specialty I want to pursue in my future pt career which is geriatric's. My favorite parts of the trip were the weekend trips!!! All of the memories we created from doing Karaoke, surfing with the locals, riding jet-skis, and going on the Catamaran boat!!! I highly recommend coming on this trip, I learned a lot about myself and what I want in my pt career.

When I first signed up for Toucan Abroad, I thought it would be mostly physical therapy shadowing with a few activities scattered here and there. After going on the trip, I can confirm it was much more than that. Almost every day of those 3 weeks I was in Puerto Vallarta felt action packed and had met its full potential. I was constantly having fun and experiencing new things. A lot of the things I experienced were not listed on the trips original itinerary and instead came as pleasant surprises. These included things such as surfing, going on a yacht, clubbing, visiting private beaches, and going to amazing restaurants.

One of the best things I liked about the program was the amount of freedom you got. Outside of your shadowing hours, students are free to choose whatever they’d like to do and get to be creative with their choices. You are treated as a responsible adult and I like that.

The shadowing is great as you get a chance to work in a raw environment, and are treated as if you’re just another worker. You get to bounce between 3 clinics each week and can choose what specialties you want to observe. I found the experience to invaluable, as I learned a lot and made multiple relationships with the therapists. I even got to use one as a reference when applying to PTA school.

As I’m writing this, I’ve been home for only a few days but I still find myself missing the trip, the friends I made, and the things I got to do. I HIGHLY recommend this program to anyone who is interested in the physical therapy profession. I think Phil and everyone else at Toucan Abroad has done a great job putting this together and I can’t wait to watch it grow and reach more people.