Rainforest Hike & Homestay #4
The six students on Rainforest Hike & Homestay session four successfully completed their multi-day trek to the community of Piedras Blancas. Along the way they stayed with local families on homestays.
“The homestays were an awesome way to learn about different cultures,” said Mo G. of Maitland, Florida.
On the homestays the students learned about Costa Rican traditions and made bread and cheese. The students also completed a solo where they spent time alone reflecting in the wilderness.
“The solo and debrief was an opportunity to open up and learn more about myself and life challenges,” added Mo.
“The course was a complete life changing experience,” agreed Carlos S. from Caracas, Venezuela. “It makes you realize how important life is.”
On their course the students also did a variety of outdoor activities including white water rafting, a zipline canopy tour and boogie boarding at Manuel Antonio National Park.
“The instructors taught us new things, shared their knowledge and experience with us as often as they could,” said Claire L. from Durango, Colorado.
Caribbean Scuba & Service #3
The 12 students on Caribbean Scuba & Service session three successfully completed their NAUI Scuba certification while learning to dive in the tropical waters of Bocas del Toro, Panama.
“I enjoyed the scuba portion the most, purely because I love scuba diving so much and it was beautiful,” said Amanda B. from Poughkeepsie, New York. “A few times while scuba diving I felt a content, accomplished feeling like none I’ve ever felt [before].”
Following the scuba portion of course, the students visited the San San Pond Pak wetlands to aid in local sea turtle conservation efforts.
“I loved all of the service projects,” said Nina P. from Berkeley, California. “I think it taught me a lot about myself and the aspects I want to make more prevalent in the future.”
“This course exceeded my expectations,” added Emma G from Swampscott, Massachusetts. “It builds character. Before this course I didn’t appreciate my material possessions as much.”
Pacific Surf & Cert Extension #3
The students on our final Summer Expedition course of 2015, Pacific Surf & Cert Extension session three, arrived to our rainforest base on Saturday.
The students are now in Playa Avellanas where they are learning to surf on famous warm-water breaks. They will also learn CPR and First Aid during their time at the beach.
Be sure to check back next Tuesday for our final Summer Expeditions student update!