Great Program!

I was a medical volunteer for one week in Costa Rica through IVHQ and Maximo Nivel. Overall, the experience was truly a great one. I felt as though I did impact the people I was working with and affected there lives positively. My day to day schedule was my project from 8-12 and then free time from 12 until bed time. With my free time, I shopped in downtown San Jose, zip-lined, took the Doka, Poas, LaPaz tour (HIGHLY RECOMMEND), and I bungee jumped on my last day all in my one week stay! I did all my tours through Trans-Leo and although they are slightly overpriced, the convenience and time saved in my opinion makes it well worth it. My host family was very nice, although no English was spoken in the home to the family. The people at Maximo Nivel were very kind and helpful but let you be independent as well, so, be prepared for that.

The most difficult thing I had to deal with was arrival. Finding my ride took about 15 mins but it was smooth sailing from then. Be calm, and do not worry if this happens to you. Just call and they will help you as they did me. Also, it is very stressful to not know what you will actually be doing once in CR, but you will find out on day one of arrival. My best advice is to just relax, let things happen, and pack scrubs and plan to wear those every day at you project.