You’ve chosen your program and reserved your spot. You’re all set for an adventure with Outward Bound Costa Rica! Now you’re counting down the days until you land in San José, ready to begin. But how can you make sure you come prepared, ready to get the most out of your experience with us? We’ve come up with six ways you can prepare yourself before you even leave your home state!
1. Learn Spanish
Whether you’re traveling to Costa Rica or Panama, you will encounter plenty of locals who speak Spanish. Knowing some basic phrases will show that you respect their culture, as well as help you communicate better. Download our travel guides below to learn a few basic Spanish phrases!
2. Buy the Right Boots- and Break Them in!
If you’re participating in a hike with us, the right boots could be the determining factor if you enjoy your time. Nobody wants to go home with blistered feet! Do yourself a favor and invest in a good pair of boots, but don’t wait until the start of your hike to wear them! Walk in them as much as you can before hand so they have time to mold to your feet.
3. Remember the Essentials
The weather in Costa Rica is most likely much different than what you’re used to. To keep yourself safe from the sun and hot weather, be sure to stock up on sunscreen and bug spray, remember your sunglasses, and bring a water bottle to keep you hydrated throughout the day. Your skin, eyes and body will all thank you later! One more tip: our rainforest base is located in altitude, so don’t forget to bring one set of warm clothes too!
4. Practice Your Manners
Some of you will be staying with host families during your time with us, practicing your Spanish, learning to make sugar cane and tortillas from scratch, and seeing how a rural Costa Rican family lives. It’s always enjoyable for these families to have polite, well-behaved students in their house, so be sure to practice your best behavior and make sure your manners are up to par!
5. Loosen Up
We know that students can be shy sometimes, but we want you to leave here with the best experience possible and friends to last a lifetime. Don’t stress out about talking to new people- you simply need to be yourself and have fun!
6. Develop a Good Attitude
Some parts of your course may be challenging- that’s what helps you grow as a person! Coming into your course with a good attitude and ready to tackle any challenge head on will ensure that you leave as a stronger, more confident person. Before you leave home, practice turning bad situations into good, and always keep positive thoughts in your head.
Also check out our travel guides for Costa Rica & Panama to further prepare yourself for the culture, language, and history of the country you’ll be traveling to!
Not yet signed up for a course? Visit our programs page to find the perfect Summer Expedition or Semester Program for you! If you are more than 18 years old, make sure to check out our 18+ Summer Expeditions.