Saludos, readers!

In Costa Rica, we are officially amidst the Semana Santa, or the Holy Week leading up to Easter. In this traditionally Catholic country, offices close Thursday and Friday, public transportation is shut down and families are busily preparing for a weekend of celebration. Our top two links explore through descriptive language and photos what Semana Santa is all about in Costa Rica. Dive in and learn more about the cultural traditions that make this week so special.

http://www.examiner.com/article/semana-santa-or-easter-week-costa-rica

Our last link relates to the Outward Bound service learning element. Outward Bound offers physical challenges in a new environment in order to stimulate character development, growth and self awareness in participants on each course. However, Outward Bound Costa Rica is particularly known for providing opportunities for students to gain compassion and intercultural competencies as they spend part of course serving in a community unlike their own. Below please find a link that lists 18 benefits to engaging in just such a challenge!

http://handsonblog.org/2011/08/23/18-benefits-of-service-learning/

Pura vida,

The Communications Team