Windham High School 2024

Day 1:

Our first day was very emotional. We flew into Liberia, Guanacaste, where we had lunch and then took a small city tour to learn about the culture and the province where we will be staying for the next week. Later on, we continued our journey to Brasilito Beach, where we met our host families. That’s what made our day so emotional yet so exciting!

 

Day 2:

We started our second day full of energy! It was our first Spanish class in Costa Rica, where we met our wonderful teachers and began learning. Later, we visited Flamingo Beach for the afternoon, where we had a lot of fun and enjoyed a beautiful sunset.

Day 3:

After our super fun Spanish classes in the morning, we then went to the community of Lorena, where we worked super hard and also had a lot of fun building a house with Siempre Amigos.

Day 4: 

Our fourth day began with morning Spanish lessons, followed by a well-deserved afternoon at Conchal Beach. This stunning beach features clear blue waters and is known for its shell-covered shores instead of traditional sand.

 

Day 5

The group engaged in a rewarding volunteer experience in the community of Lorena, where they contributed their time and efforts to support local initiatives. 

Day 6:

The catamaran cruise at sunset was a breathtaking experience, as the group sailed across the shimmering waters while the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. 

Day 7:

The group had an exciting time taking surf classes, embracing the thrill of riding the waves in the beautiful coastal waters. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students learned the fundamentals of surfing, including paddling techniques and balance.

Day 8:

As the bus pulled out of Playa Flamingo, the group bid farewell to the coast and began their ascent into the highlands. Along the way, they passed through charming rural towns and villages, catching a glimpse of the traditional way of life in Costa Rica. 

After a scenic and enjoyable journey, the group finally arrived in Monteverde, a small town nestled in the heart of the cloud forest. The air was cooler and more refreshing, a welcome change from the tropical heat of the coast.

Day 9:

The group's first day of Spanish class in Monteverde was filled with excitement and anticipation.

After the class, the group embarked on a cultural treasure hunt around Santa Elena. This interactive activity allowed them to explore the town while solving clues and discovering local landmarks. 

Day 10:

The group embarked on an exhilarating adventure at Sky Walk, exploring the enchanting cloud forest of Monteverde through a series of hanging bridges. This immersive experience allowed them to traverse the lush canopy, taking in breathtaking views from heights of up to 164 feet.

Day 11 and 12:

During their time at Life Monteverde, the group assisted with educational programs, helped maintain community gardens, and participated in environmental conservation efforts. This hands-on involvement fostered a sense of camaraderie among the participants as they worked together to create a meaningful impact. 

Day 13

The group embarked on an exhilarating adventure at El Tigre Waterfalls in Monteverde, exploring the lush cloud forest through a series of hanging bridges and trails. This self-guided tour allowed them to discover four impressive waterfalls and nine bridges, including hanging and natural tree bridges

Day 14

The group had an adrenaline-pumping day at 100% Aventura, where they experienced the thrill of ziplining through the stunning cloud forest of Monteverde. This adventure included nine regular zip lines and two superman zip lines, one of which is the longest in Costa Rica.

Day 15:

On their last day in Costa Rica, the group traveled to La Fortuna to experience the renowned hot springs, a perfect way to unwind after their adventures. Nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano, these natural thermal springs are heated by geothermal activity.