High School Experiential Learning Programs in Central America

Putney Student Travel’s Career Costa Rica program was the most rewarding experience of my life. In many cases, it was my first time doing so many things that I wouldn’t typically imagine myself doing, such as snorkeling, adobe construction, night hikes in the middle of the rainforest and sea turtle patrols. Alongside the incredible activities, the lodging was also amazing. We stayed in numerous eco-lodges (each with similar sleeping arrangements to attending camp; 1-4 per room) that gave us the opportunity to experience some form of luxury while still immersing ourselves in local Costa Rican beauty. Each location also offered incredible Tico, American and some Italian food with vegetarian options. We dined alongside each other at a family-style table for all three meals of the day and occasional snack. We genuinely were like family and I felt fully supported by both the students and staff. I honestly miss everyone so much already (it’s been a week). The group leaders were also very chill and shared so much wisdom about the customs, culture and different wildlife we encountered. In one instance, a student had to be taken to the doctor and it was a smooth process, with the kid being able to receive appropriate care. However, the worst part of the program was probably the late nights and early mornings during the few days that we were helping out with sea turtle night patrols. I truly had a blast and sincerely hope that I am able to travel again with Putney. From the commute there to our very last moments together, I don’t have a single regret.

Putney Student Travel’s Career Costa Rica program was the most rewarding experience of my life. In many cases, it was my first time doing so many things that I wouldn’t typically imagine myself doing, such as snorkeling, adobe construction, night hikes in the middle of the rainforest and sea turtle patrols. Alongside the incredible activities, the lodging was also amazing. We stayed in numerous eco-lodges (each with similar sleeping arrangements to attending camp; 1-4 per room) that gave us the opportunity to experience some form of luxury while still immersing ourselves in local Costa Rican beauty. Each location also offered incredible Tico, American and some Italian food with vegetarian options. We dined alongside each other at a family-style table for all three meals of the day and occasional snack. We genuinely were like family and I felt fully supported by both the students and staff. I honestly miss everyone so much already (it’s been a week). The group leaders were also very chill and shared so much wisdom about the customs, culture and different wildlife we encountered. In one instance, a student had to be taken to the doctor and it was a smooth process, with the kid being able to receive appropriate care. However, the worst part of the program was probably the late nights and early mornings during the few days that we were helping out with sea turtle night patrols. I truly had a blast and sincerely hope that I am able to travel again with Putney. From the commute there to our very last moments together, I don’t have a single regret.

Putney Student Travel’s Career Costa Rica program was the most rewarding experience of my life. In many cases, it was my first time doing so many things that I wouldn’t typically imagine myself doing, such as snorkeling, adobe construction, night hikes in the middle of the rainforest and sea turtle patrols. Alongside the incredible activities, the lodging was also amazing. We stayed in numerous eco-lodges (each with similar sleeping arrangements to attending camp; 1-4 per room) that gave us the opportunity to experience some form of luxury while still immersing ourselves in local Costa Rican beauty. Each location also offered incredible Tico, American and some Italian food with vegetarian options. We dined alongside each other at a family-style table for all three meals of the day and occasional snack. We genuinely were like family and I felt fully supported by both the students and staff. I honestly miss everyone so much already (it’s been a week). The group leaders were also very chill and shared so much wisdom about the customs, culture and different wildlife we encountered. In one instance, a student had to be taken to the doctor and it was a smooth process, with the kid being able to receive appropriate care. However, the worst part of the program was probably the late nights and early mornings during the few days that we were helping out with sea turtle night patrols. I truly had a blast and sincerely hope that I am able to travel again with Putney. From the commute there to our very last moments together, I don’t have a single regret.

Putney Student Travel’s Career Costa Rica program was the most rewarding experience of my life. In many cases, it was my first time doing so many things that I wouldn’t typically imagine myself doing, such as snorkeling, adobe construction, night hikes in the middle of the rainforest and sea turtle patrols. Alongside the incredible activities, the lodging was also amazing. We stayed in numerous eco-lodges (each with similar sleeping arrangements to attending camp; 1-4 per room) that gave us the opportunity to experience some form of luxury while still immersing ourselves in local Costa Rican beauty. Each location also offered incredible Tico, American and some Italian food with vegetarian options. We dined alongside each other at a family-style table for all three meals of the day and occasional snack. We genuinely were like family and I felt fully supported by both the students and staff. I honestly miss everyone so much already (it’s been a week). The group leaders were also very chill and shared so much wisdom about the customs, culture and different wildlife we encountered. In one instance, a student had to be taken to the doctor and it was a smooth process, with the kid being able to receive appropriate care. However, the worst part of the program was probably the late nights and early mornings during the few days that we were helping out with sea turtle night patrols. I truly had a blast and sincerely hope that I am able to travel again with Putney. From the commute there to our very last moments together, I don’t have a single regret.

Putney Student Travel’s Career Costa Rica program was the most rewarding experience of my life. In many cases, it was my first time doing so many things that I wouldn’t typically imagine myself doing, such as snorkeling, adobe construction, night hikes in the middle of the rainforest and sea turtle patrols. Alongside the incredible activities, the lodging was also amazing. We stayed in numerous eco-lodges (each with similar sleeping arrangements to attending camp; 1-4 per room) that gave us the opportunity to experience some form of luxury while still immersing ourselves in local Costa Rican beauty. Each location also offered incredible Tico, American and some Italian food with vegetarian options. We dined alongside each other at a family-style table for all three meals of the day and occasional snack. We genuinely were like family and I felt fully supported by both the students and staff. I honestly miss everyone so much already (it’s been a week). The group leaders were also very chill and shared so much wisdom about the customs, culture and different wildlife we encountered. In one instance, a student had to be taken to the doctor and it was a smooth process, with the kid being able to receive appropriate care. However, the worst part of the program was probably the late nights and early mornings during the few days that we were helping out with sea turtle night patrols. I truly had a blast and sincerely hope that I am able to travel again with Putney. From the commute there to our very last moments together, I don’t have a single regret.

This GLA program was such a life changing experience for me. During the trip I not only learned about different cultures, but I meet so many awesome new people. The other students I meet on this trip, I still talk to often. This trip allowed me to take into consideration what future careers I may be interested in. The staff were amazing and made the experience so much better. I would recommend this trip to everyone.

My time in Guatemala with Dragons was deeply impactful. The connections I made with locals have shaped the way I think about the world. From my more traditional, indigenous-rooted host family living in a more isolated town near Lake Aititlan to my more modern host family in Quetzaltenango, I was able to connect with people who were different from me while discovering the humanity we shared. The program was thoughtfully planned, and the instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, and I know the friends I made on the trip will remain some of my closest friends throughout my life. Not only did I improve my Spanish, but I also learned more about myself and the world around me.

I am so grateful I did this trip!! I had such a great time and made incredibly special connections with the children and other travelers. Th excursions and activities were very well organized, and I learned something from each one. When me and a few other travelers got stuck in the Houston airport because of a huge snowstorm, STW was so helpful and I did not feel panicked once!! I would so do this trip again and I would recommend it to anyone!!

This summer I went to Costa Rica with GLA teens, and I had an amazing time that I will always cherish. I learned so much getting to work in a turtle hatchery, and I even got to release baby turtles. I also got to learn about the community and culture of the area, partaking in special activities very unique to this program. Overall, I could not recommend this program enough, the experience I had was truly once in a lifetime.

I went on the Central America Backpackers trip this summer and can honestly say it was one of the most inspiring and life-changing experiences I have ever had. From the amazing teachers and students I met from across Canada, to studying english and biology on the beach, I could not think of a better way to have spent my summer. I loved how close and comfortable everyone was around each other, especially having not known anyone going into the trip. I would highly recommend studying abroad with MEI Academy!

West Coast Connection delivered an exceptional experience for my son on his Costa Rica trip this past June. The itinerary struck the perfect balance of adventure, cultural immersion and fun. He loved everything from helping at the wildlife sanctuary and constructing a new basketball court for a local school, to zip-lining, surfing and relaxing in the mud baths with new friends from around the world. As a parent, I appreciated how thorough and reliable the communication was from start to finish. The trip leaders were professional, enthusiastic, and clearly dedicated to creating a safe, positive environment. My son came home proud of the work he did, the connections he made and more curious about the world. This trip exceeded every expectation for both of us!

Arco's pre-program communication was impeccable. There were regular updates at just the right time with plenty of information. I was always informed. Arcos should be a model for every study abroad program. My high schooler's Spanish increased. We appreciated the eye-opening excursions and cultural activities that exposed Aden to Coast Rican life and its people. Definitely a life changing program. Come ready to try delicious food and make new friends.

This summer I went to Costa Rica with GLA teens, and I had an amazing time that will always be cherished. I learned so much getting to work in a turtle hatchery learning all about the dangers to turtles and helping to build turtle nests. I also got to learn about the community and culture of the area, partaking in special activities very unique to the program. Overall, I could not recommend this program enough.

The greatest benefits of the program were the cultural exchange with Costa Rican people (especially the homestay family, kids at the school and residents of Atenas), sense of independence and confidence, resilience from navigating challenging situations, improved Spanish, exploration of a new place, food, and lots of fun activities.

Arcos provides extensive communication and support with the service details. It was a great experience! My son loved the journey! The program was very accommodating. He enjoyed joining the gym in Atenas and especially loved painting the school and interacting with the students for his community service project.

My daughter was a rising 10th grader and was on the Costa Rica service and adventure trip. She had such an incredible experience! She loved exploring the different areas of Costa Rica, the beautiful beaches, the stunning rainforests and waterfalls- and most importantly the life changing service experience. She wants to go back again and again!

Dylan found this experience incredibly meaningful as a way to give back to communities less fortunate. On top of that he had great fun and adventure with his friends. Thank you for an incredibly experience.

This summer I went to Costa Rica with GLA teens, and I had an amazing time that I will always cherish. I learned so much getting to watch vets work, and I even got to assist with the animals that were admitted. I also got to learn about the community and culture of the area, partaking in special activities very unique to this program. Overall, I could not recommend this program enough, the experience I had was truly once in a lifetime.

The communication with Arcos Journeys Abroad was fantastic. My son appreciated the Costa Rican culture and autonomy he was afforded in the small town of Atenas. I encourage you to give your child the experience living with a host family - it’s such an amazing experience.

This was an amazing life experience for me and I highly suggest anyone thinking about going to just go, it's worth it. I increased my skills of water polo for sure, and it was a good way for me to practice meeting new people, this was really good because I am going to college soon, so it was a good practice.