Program Reviews

My homestay family was so kind and welcoming I feel like I gained an extended family on this trip. From conversations around the table to excursions out and about town, the family made an effort to involve us in everyday life in Costa Rica. The adventures--rafting, surfing, horseback riding, etc.--were amazing, but nothing compares to the authentic experience of building relationships with such wonderful people. I will definitely go back and visit on my own one day. I truly love my homestay family.

I have made such great memories on the trips that I have taken through this program, and Arcos Journeys Abroad made all of that possible by using great communication, fun activities, and made sure we felt safe and good about everything! From the first trip that I went on, Arcos Journeys Abroad has made everything from the plane ride, to the home stay, to the activities a breeze and made sure that I felt safe and comfortable with everything. I cannot wait to see what the next trip I take with Arcos Journeys Abroad will bring me!

This was a great experience because I got to be enriched with Costa Rican culture and the Spanish language. I learned multiple things in my classes and learned very valuable lessons. My teachers also expanded my vocabulary and used many different tactics of teaching to help us grow in the language. We worked on group projects, gave presentations, played games, practiced with native speakers in the community, and sat through traditional teaching as well. Each of these challenged us to learn more every day.

I did the eco program in Costa Rica and it could not have been a better time. The community service aspect was pretty minor overall, and there was lots of free time in Atenas and during excursions to hang out. All of the adventure activities were super fun - whitewater rafting was a highlight for sure. The Arcos staff and engaging and easygoing, and the homestay experience was great (even if my Spanish is pretty rough!). There was plenty of delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife - the monkeys at the beach were super fun to see in person.

I did a study abroad program in Oaxaca during la Guelaguetza, a festival that honors local indigenous peoples. I was able to experience local cultural events that enhanced my understanding of Oaxaca. I took Spanish classes at the local university in the mornings and my language skills improved more than I had expected. Arcos planned great cultural excursions for our group in the afternoons. I enjoyed living with my host mother and getting to know the other girls in our house. I would go back in a heartbeat!

ARCOS overall is very ontop of communication and preparing you for the trip. They are quick to respond and they are extremely helpful.

The program itself was awesome. I loved the city of Buenos Aires and all the excursions we got to do and I loved being able to improve my Spanish. The Spanish classes aren't like your typical high school class, so you don't fall asleep and you really learn a lot in the time you are there.

The food is amazing, the activities, and the independence was my favorite part. I met a lot of great people a few I am still in contact with.

Kevin specifically the program director was the absolute best. He was funny, kept us safe, and my favorite person I have ever met. He was always available and helped whenever he could. Kevin definitely improved the trip in a million ways. Overall it was an amazing trip and I would definitely do a trip with ARCOS again.

My son absolutely loved his time in Costa Rica. Great service opportunities and excursions, wonderful kids and program directors, and terrific homestay. He came back feeling more confident about traveling independently, but also more confident generally. The program provided so many ways for the kids to explore independently, but with enough support to feel safe. Also, great communication with the families while the kids were away. We were comfortable the whole time, knowing our son was in great hands. Great job Arcos! We would absolutely recommend this program to anyone.

This program is so fun and 100% worth it. Everything is taken care of by the program and, as a 17 year old traveling transatlantically alone, they made the entire experience of getting there and leaving really easy and not stressful. Everyone (ESPECIALLY Rocio and Marcell) is super nice and eager to help or answer any questions someone has. It’s really nice to have two great, knowledgeable, and unique people to help you get to know a foreign place, and who you can clearly tell want to be there and want to help.

My adventure with Arcos was once in a lifetime! The month was filled with fun excursions, educational information, and friends that I will keep in touch with for a long time! Marcell and Rocio made this trip so welcoming and informational. I will certainly be returning to a Granada in years to come. The nightlife in Granada was wonderful to experience, and there are many places for adventuring throughout the day! We went to the beaches and the mountains and many places in between, and oh boy did I like those places!

I am still beyond amazed what a gem this program was. The cost for the duration of my month in Argentina (which included housing, six days a week of meals, most transportation, cultural excursions, academy classes, etc.) was extremely affordable for its value. Before I decided to travel with Arcos for my July abroad I shopped around at other programs. I am so happy I chose Arcos. Not only was it one of the lowest costing programs I found, but the people who run it truly want the best for you and your experience. The staff of Arcos was quick to answer any questions or concerns I had and my program director made the time there memorable. I was so blessed as this program introduced me to friends I know can last for a lifetime and people I will never forget. 10/10 recommend