Hello from the playa!

Since our last update we’ve been busy with language and exploratory activities.

We kicked off our first day as a villa group with Spanish activities in the morning, which typically involve a balanced combination of studies, songs and skits. After class, lunch and our afternoon siesta, students took a beautiful hike down to Playa Peinca, a seldom-visited beach near our home base. There, students swam, played volleyball and soccer and walked to tidepools that were teeming with life.

The next day started off bright and early with a snorkeling trip. We met our guide, Luis, on the beach and took two boats to two different snorkeling sites. After we had had our fill of marine life, Luis brought us to a hidden cove where students kicked back, hydrated and munched on fresh piña before we headed home for lunch.

Yesterday, we kicked off our day with Spanish lessons in the morning and were off to a waterfall in the afternoon! Catarata de Llanos de Cortés is hailed as one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfall and it did not disappoint. We took a short hike from the main waterfall to a more secluded one where students and leaders could jump in.

Today, we had the privilege of visiting the Reserva Biológica Lomas Barbudal home to vast biodiversity, including 25% of the world’s species of bees! Upon arrival, students got to plant trees and pick up trash by the river. They also got chance to hear from & ask questions of primatologist Dr. Susan Perry who has done research on capuchin monkeys that spans over 25 years!

After the reserve, we headed into Liberia, where students had a little bit of free time before we headed to Merricumbre dance studio. There, students were treated to Meringue, Tico Swing and Regaeton dance lessons.

Stay tuned for more updates and we wish you all a happy July 4^th weekend!

Hasta pronto,

Los Líderes de la Villa