The Food Studies: Costa Rica Arcos program provided me with one of the most life changing experiences; I am forever greatful for the experiences and memories that were made. The cultural immersion of staying with a tico family, the incredible support of the director’s, taking classes, doing cultural activities, and going on excursions were the most meaningful aspects of the program. I am excited to now call Costa Rica my home away from home, as I grew deeply connected with the people and vibrant culture. ¡Pura Vida!

My study abroad experience in Costa Rica with Arcos Learning was truly unforgettable. From start to finish, the program was well-organized, supportive, and deeply enriching, both personally and academically.

The on-site staff were incredible, warm, responsive, and genuinely committed to making sure every student felt safe, supported, and empowered to immerse themselves in the culture. The activities, excursions, and service-learning opportunities helped me connect more deeply with the local community and gain a meaningful understanding of Costa Rican life, values, and traditions.

I returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, lasting friendships, and a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica. I highly recommend Arcos Learning for anyone looking to challenge themselves, embrace a new culture, and experience something truly transformational.

Pura vida!
Monica G., Costa Rica 2025

I absolutely loved being in Costa Rica with the help of Arcos! It is a beautiful country and Arcos and their staff helped me explore the country and see all what she has to offer. All the activities were so so fun and I loved every moment. I definitely learned so much Spanish. The staff from Arcos were so friendly and it was so bittersweet to leave. Whenever we had our own free-time we loved going to the city center, the market, the local mall, or even just relaxing at home with our host family. Would definitely recommend to EVERYONE!!

I spent a month in Costa Rica with this program. I absolutely loved how welcoming and helpful the staff were throughout the entire program. I had the time of my life in Costa Rica and met new people I now consider family! I visited multiple beaches in the country and saw a volcano for the first time. I participated in cultural activities that I hold dear to my heart. I miss the food so much, and my family loves when I cook comida tica for them! Arcos did a great job selecting our cultural activities and excursions!!

Amazing organization! They are dedicated to positive student experiences. They are communicative, friendly, and genuinely care about students. I have had students participate in individual programs and just led a study abroad trip to Costa Rica with amazing results. The local directors were knowledgeable, caring, and put the students first. Our Western Carolina University students fell in love with Costa Rica, their host families, and our Arcos directors. We will definitely work with Arcos again in the future!

Best time of my life 10/10, every day was something new and it helped me learn a lot about myself and a new culture. The food was great, the people were amazing, the nature was incredible. I don’t have many bad things to say about a the trip, only that it was too short. I was nervous at first but the team at arcos made me feel super safe. It seemed like they knew everything, probably because they do. That kind of confidence can change the trip for people that were nervous about being somewhere new.

The staff were extremely nice and helpful. I had an amazing experience! We especially loved our tour guide, Angie! This experience was very enlightening for me. It will stay with me throughout my nursing career. It was amazing to see how different the medical systems in other countries can be from the United States. The learning experiences were very interesting. Learning the different perspectives of providers in Costa Rica, along with exploring the hospital setting and nursing school. I would recommend this experience to anyone who asks me!

It was an awesome trip for my first time out of the country. Costa Rica is a beautiful country and we had the chance to see many different areas of it. We were there as a tropical ecology class of 20 to check out the rainforest. We had a lot of travel days in order to check out a variety of areas but it wasn't too bad. The food was awesome, definitely eat as much as you can and try any new foods you see. We got really lucky with the weather so I actually can't speak much to coping with the rain. Overall, I'd recommend this program.