Comprising incredible forests, jungles, coastlines, ancient Mayan ruins, and historic cities, Central America’s outstanding natural and cultural diversity is reflected in the sheer number of places to choose from for language study abroad. Deciding on where you want to learn a new language is often a question of budget; luckily, Central America has options to suit all kinds.

At the more expensive end of the spectrum, but by far the most popular country for language study in Central America, is Costa Rica. A country known for its political stability in the midst of a historically turbulent Latin America, it’s no wonder that aspiring language students come to Costa Rica in droves. With language course options in San José, the capital and culturally sophisticated hub, the sensational white beaches of Playa Flamingo, or the cloud-forest community of Monteverde, anyone can find a language program in Costa Rica to suit their interests, whether they’re a culture, coast, or cloud lover. Given that locals often greet one another by the saying pura vida (or good life), you’ll likely learn to appreciate Costa Rica’s warm and welcoming vibe quite quickly.

For mid-range budgets, give Panama a chance. Offering a multi-cultural, international fusion, thanks to its historical positioning amidst world trade and communication routes, most language learners in Panama head to Panama City. Viewed as the most cosmopolitan capital in Central America, it doesn’t have the same colonial architecture of most other countries, but language students will still be able to escape the cities for weekends of relaxation (or study) on untouched beaches.

If cheap living costs are a priority, join many savvy travelers in discovering Guatemala, and its language hotspot, Antigua. Although the prices of language classes are rock-bottom, you won’t be skimping on stunning surroundings or, more importantly, quality teaching. Once the administrative center for Central America and Mexico during the Spanish Empire, Antigua now combines charming colonial buildings with a modern, international ambience. Language students can savor its bar and restaurant scene while chatting with locals over a strong Guatemalan coffee.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider language programs in Honduras. Safety concerns do remain a pressing issue in this politically-unstable country, but Honduras is doing its best to shift its reputation as the bad boy of the Central America circuit. The daring, but still cautious, traveler can discover the reality of this fascinating country, particularly in the tropical city of La Ceiba. A port town known for its lively Caribbean rhythms and one of the largest carnival parades in all of Central America, you’ll learn more than just a new language in Honduras.