Boomers Abroad

Highlights

This gem of a country has something for almost every traveler, from surfing and scuba diving, to hiking and exploring the interior. The terrain and ecosystems are incredibly varied and home to 6% of the Earth's biodiversity. Mountains rise from the Pacific ocean and Caribbean Sea to form the spine of Costa Rica and define hundreds of microclimates. Over 25% of the country is protected in an extensive national park and preserve system. The military was outlawed after the civil war in 1948. The absence of a military over the past 60 years has created a pacifist attitude which carries over into almost all aspects of life. Ticos (Costa Ricans) are known for being friendly, polite almost to a fault, and warm. Costa Rica is more economically developed and Ticos enjoy a higher standard of living than most other Central Americans, but the country still has economic issues. Around 23% of Costa Ricans live under the poverty line. The Costa Rican Economy's main sectors are tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. Thousands of tourists visit Costa Rica each year to experience the magical national parks, relax on the beaches, and find adventure. We partner with local organizations based in Heredia to create 2-6 week long volunteer, cultural immersion, and Spanish language programs that give participants a richer experience of Costa Rica.

All programs take place in 100% Spanish speaking environments. For the soup kitchen, children's programs, and some environment projects, participants need to have a high-beginner level of Spanish language. For the elderly centers, health projects and teaching English to adults and teenagers, participants must be at the intermediate level or higher. For the turtle programs or work in a national park, participants must have an advanced level of Spanish language.

Qualifications

Volunteers should be flexible, creative, highly motivated and mentally prepared to work without readily accessible materials. Volunteers should have low-intermediate Spanish speaking skills. No prior teaching experience is needed.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Varies. Starts at USD 960 for 2 weeks.

Cost Include Description:

Application Fee: USD 100 (refundable only if we are unable to find a placement that matches your request)

Program Includes
* Pre-departure information
* Pick up from the airport in San Jose and transportation to Heredia
* Orientation and welcome pack
* City tour
* Volunteer Position
* Accommodation
* Breakfast and Dinner each day
* 24/7 emergency service
* One week of intensive Spanish classes at a local language school.

Program Does Not Include
* Round trip Airfare
* Return trip to Airport
* Required Travel and Medical Insurance

Credit Available

no

Volunteer Types

• arts
• childcare/children
• English teaching
• teaching

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participant.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel to Costa Rica

Independently

International Volunteers's Mission Statement

International Volunteers is the volunteer branch of ELI Abroad, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization, founded in 2001, that partners with organizations from around the world making a difference in their communities. We work closely with these groups to ensure that our volunteers get meaningful experiences at reasonable prices. We have something for everyone: whether you want to teach in Ghana, work in an orphanage in Nepal, animal rescue in the rainforest of Ecuador, medical clinic in South India, or study in a university in Buenos Aires.

Year Founded

2001