What inspired you to travel abroad?
Traveling abroad has been a dream of mine since I visited Spain my junior year of college. Immersing myself in a different culture is incredibly appealing. Experiencing new traditions, languages, and customs offers a unique perspective and helps me understand the world more fully. It's not just about visiting new places but also about connecting with people who live there, learning from them, and broadening my horizons. Being a Spanish teacher, I love having the opportunity to improve my proficiency. Being able to communicate in another language not only enhances travel experiences but also allows for deeper connections with locals. It’s a skill that I want to continue to develop and improve.
Why did you choose Global Citizen Adventure Corps?
I chose to travel with GCAC because they offer a well-rounded program that combines adventure, education, and personal growth. Their itineraries are designed to include not only the must-see tourist attractions but also opportunities to learn from local experts, participate in community projects, and experience the daily life of the locals. Every aspect of the trip is carefully planned and executed. Knowing that I’m traveling with a group that values safety, learning, and cultural sensitivity gave me peace of mind that my time abroad would be maximized to the fullest.
Jenna in action digging holes and setting tree posts to make an enclosure for a family of deers.
What was your favorite part about Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica?
The concept of “Pura Vida” reflects a way of life that is relaxed, positive, and deeply connected to nature and community. “Pura Vida,” meaning “pure life,” is more than just a phrase; it’s a philosophy that encourages living life to the fullest, appreciating the simple things, and embracing the beauty of the present moment. This mindset is contagious and adds to the overall charm of the country. The natives encompass this feeling, and it is absolutely contagious!
What made your experience unforgettable?
What truly set my experience apart was the natural beauty of the country and the slower pace of life. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the country’s lush landscapes. The beauty of the rainforest and the wild animals everywhere you turn added such a magical touch to even the most mundane of tasks, such as a four-hour bus ride! The way the Ticos take time to step out of the hustle and bustle of the every day grind and enjoy the simple things in life was such a breath of fresh air!
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
Our guide and our driver stayed with us everywhere we went. We knew that even when we were off the bus that our belongings were safe because our driver stayed with the bus. Our guide provided translation services for us whenever necessary. He even went out of his way to continually communicate with the airport when one of our traveler's bags did not show up. They were both more than willing to answer any and all of our questions and were so incredibly patient with us.
Would you have done something differently?
The only thing I wish I had done differently during my time abroad was to stay longer! There was so much more that I wanted to see and experience outside of what our six day itinerary allowed for. Before we left I made sure to exchange contact information with both our driver and our guide so that I could go ahead and work on planning my return trip with GCAC next year!
What did your typical day look like?
We had breakfast together at the cabins, volunteered at Wild Sun during the first half of the day, ate lunch with the staff at Wild Sun, had different excursions planned for each afternoon, and ate dinner together as a group every evening. On the days we didn't volunteer, we used for extra time to explore and shop for souvenirs.
The team added a mesh wire to snake-proof cages for baby monkeys.
What did you enjoy the most in your free time there?
Being a lover of the Spanish language and having an unquenchable curiosity for the many different Hispanic cultures, I enjoyed conversing with the locals during my free time. I looked forward to sitting at the bar and having coffee each morning while practicing my Spanish with not only our driver and guide but also the waiters and waitresses. I kept a note in my phone where I would add new words and expressions that I learned each day.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
On our first and last nights in the country, we stayed at a modern hotel in the capital city, San Jose. The hotel had most of the amenities and comforts of home. The presence of air conditioning was the most welcome of them all! For the majority of the trip we stayed in cabins. The cabins were such an amazing experience. Even though there was no air conditioning and we did not have hot water, it did not phase any of us. We slept with the deck door and windows open at night and were lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and were awakened each morning by the birds and monkeys. It was such a peaceful and relaxing experience.
What is one thing every future participant should keep in mind before their program begins?
One thing every person should know before participating in this travel program is the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect. It is important to be aware of differences in customs, traditions, and social norms that you will encounter during your travels. It’s essential to approach these differences with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Take time to educate yourself about the destination’s culture, especially its values and etiquette. Understanding these aspects will help you avoid misunderstandings and show respect to the people you meet.
Jenna with her daughter on a bioluminescent kayak tour.
Would you recommend Service Learning in Costa Rica to others? Why?
I would enthusiastically recommend traveling abroad with GCAC for many reasons. GCAC offers a unique approach to travel that goes beyond simply visiting tourist attractions in a foreign country; they focus on creating immersive and meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact on both the traveler and the communities visited.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The development of cultural awareness and sensitivity is one of the greatest benefits gained from traveling abroad. By interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, you gain a deeper understanding of their customs, values, and beliefs. You learn to respect and value differences, which is essential in today’s interconnected world.
Now that you're home, did anything change after your experience abroad?
Traveling abroad has impacted my life in ways I never imagined. My trip to Costa Rica with GCAC has given me new cultural perspectives and an appreciation for slowing down to enjoy life. I experienced how restorative it can be to set aside your cellphone, unplug from he digital world, and soak up the environment around me.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is about going beyond the typical tourist experience and engaging deeply with the places I visit. It's not just about seeing the sights or checking destinations off a list; it's about connecting with the culture, people, and environment in a way that enriches both my life and the lives of those I encounter.
