Toucan Abroad
Why choose Toucan Abroad?
Toucan Abroad’s goal is to broaden the perspective and form future leaders in the physical therapy field by exposing them to multiple PT specialists demonstrating expert patient care, all within a new culture. We want students to evolve by gaining a more holistic view of the profession, themselves, and the world by being immersed into a different society and shadowing licensed physical therapists. All of our therapists that we partner with are licensed and are fully excited to teach and demonstrate their common physical therapy practices. Not only do you receive clinical observation hours in varied PT specialties, but you get to spend time in Costa Rica exploring the stunning natural beauty and rich culture while making lifelong friends. Toucan Abroad provides the opportunity to stand out among other PT school applicants through a unique and unparalleled experienced.
Toucan Abroad’s goal is to broaden the perspective and form future leaders in the physical therapy field by exposing them to multiple PT specialists demonstrating expert patient care, all within a new culture. We want students to evolve by gaining a more holistic view of the profession, themselves, and the world by being immersed into a different society and shadowing licensed physical therapists. All of our therapists that we partner with are licensed and are fully excited to teach and demonstrate their common physical therapy practices. Not only do you receive clinical observation hours in varied PT specialties, but you get to spend time in Costa Rica exploring the stunning natural beauty and rich culture while making lifelong friends. Toucan Abroad provides the opportunity to stand out among other PT school applicants through a unique and unparalleled experienced.
Toucan Abroad Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Definitely say YES!!
August 01, 2026by: Rachel Proulx - United StatesI was a little skeptical about what I was getting into when I signed up for this program but I am so so so glad that I gave it a shot. I learned so much about the history and culture of Greece while also seeing how PTs and clinic operate in different areas outside the US. I met so many amazing people, and the staff on the trip were so helpful and involved and truly wanted us to have the best time. I am beyond grateful for the experience and the connections that I made on this trip. Definitely would recommend going to anyone that is questioning it!

The best experience ever!
July 30, 2026by: Aubree Cash - United StatesToucan Abroad gave me the experience of a lifetime! I gained valuable PT observation experience, explored so many beautiful places throughout Greece, and made lifelong friendships along the way. The directors were incredible so supportive, organized, and genuinely invested in making our experience unforgettable. I couldn’t recommend this program more to anyone looking for professional growth, adventure, and amazing memories.
Costa Rica with Toucan Abroad
July 29, 2026by: Savannah Fajardo - United StatesShadowing with Toucan Abroad in Costa Rica was an incredible and unforgettable experience that truly strengthened my passion for physical therapy. I had the opportunity to learn from skilled clinicians, experience healthcare in a different cultural setting, and grow both personally and professionally. The Toucan team was supportive, welcoming, and were our anchor during any time of stress or anxiety. I left with valuable knowledge, unforgettable memories, and lifelong friendships. I highly recommend this program to any student looking for a meaningful international clinical experience.
Best experience!
July 29, 2026by: Lizbeth Morales - United StatesI was very very hesitant on applying and even once I got accepted I was very skeptical about joining BUT I truly had the best time ever! Getting to experience different clinics around Athens was an amazing and the PTs were truly the best! We started out strangers but once it was time to end it was the hardest see you later ever! Best directors ever too!!!

Amazing experience of a lifetime
July 19, 2026by: Hailey Mckavish - United StatesFrom being able to shadow physical therapists to doing group excursions every week I had an amazing time. Every clinic I went to was super kind and willing to teach us students. Group excursions were a great way to hang out with everyone in the group while exploring athens. The location of our stay allowed us to explore the city while still feeling safe. I learned so much on this trip and would highly recommend to others.
Best Three Weeks EVER!
June 16, 2026by: Madilyn Johnson - United StatesToucan Abroad allowed me to learn so much about physical therapy, and I gained so many hands on experiences. Outside of the shadowing hours, I gained some of my favorite memories and SO many new friends that share similar interests with me. I have zero regrets from this experience. From ATV riding in the rainforest to getting to tape and dry needle my friends, I loved every moment of this experience.
Take the risk!
June 09, 2026by: Will Walker - United StatesI truly cannot say enough good things about Toucan Abroad, three weeks changed my life. I went in knowing nobody and left with friend's I would do anything for. You will have the best time of your life in the most beautiful city, Sevilla, it’s a perfect blend of historic and modern with so so many things to do and see. In clinic the PTs are amazing they truly are happy to teach, explain, and even let you try techniques. If you are thinking about Toucan Abroad take the leap you will be forever grateful!
If you're considering it - DO IT!!
January 26, 2026by: Anya Knoll - United StatesBeing a part of Toucan Abroad was the best decision I ever made. I didn’t just grow professionally in the physical therapy clinics — I also improved my Spanish, gained a deeper understanding of other cultures, and learned so much about everyday life in another country. If I could do it all again, I would in a heartbeat. I got so close to everyone on the trip, and I truly believe those friendships are for life. The staff at Toucan Abroad were incredibly supportive and easy to reach — they answered every question and helped whenever we needed it, but also let us have independence so we could really experience exchange life. I absolutely loved my time in Spain with Toucan Abroad and my whole group. If I ever had the chance to do it again, I definitely would.
Unforgettable experience
January 26, 2026by: Erika Hughes - United StatesParticipating in this program was the best decision I’ve ever made. Being able to see how physical therapy is done in another country solidified my decision to peruse this career. All the staff at the clinics were eager to teach and share their knowledge in the field while wanted to learn from us. Outside of clinic there was plenty of time to explore the beauty of Sevilla and fully immerse yourself in the culture. I strongly recommend doing this program as it’s a once in a lifetime experience you can’t pass up!
Amazing experience
January 26, 2026by: Henry Roloff - United StatesLearning about the way physical therapy is practiced in another country is an amazing way to gain shadowing hours for PT school as well as influence your future practice to bring different techniques and perspectives to your career. Additionally, being able to see 3 Spanish cities and learn so much about Spanish culture and history while also getting 40 hours of shadowing experience is an amazing balance.
I had a great time!
July 25, 2025by: Sedani Nagodawithana - Sri LankaI got to experience new experiences I have never experienced before. I got to experience the culture and also enjoy the food. I definitely met some friends for a lifetime. Overall, it was a great opportunity!
Made memories with lifelong friends
July 06, 2025by: Jessica Bagley - United StatesI had the most amazing experience during my time in Seville and that’s thanks to toucan abroad. They provided us with everything we need and more. The clinics we got to shadow were very insightful and kind. Seville is a very beautiful city, rich in culture, and safe. Toucan Abroad PT Shadowing is the best way to gain PT hours, experience, and see the difference and similarities of physical therapy both in Spain and the US. Not only did I gain PT experience, but I made great friends that made my experience so special.
Toucan Abroad in Sevilla, Spain
June 17, 2025by: Kristen Kim - United StatesThis experience in Sevilla, Spain was one of the most rewarding experiences as a pre-PT student that I have ever done. It was definitely a step out of my comfort zone to travel with completely new people who I’ve never met before and being in a country that I’ve never been in with a language that I can’t speak, but I think getting such an amazing experience out of it despite coming into the trip with all of these unfamiliarities was the best part of Toucan Abroad. I learned so much from the PT clinics in Spain, and not only learned a lot about their work style and culture, but also their social culture and lifestyles of people that live there. The people I traveled with were so fun and kind, and everyone was in the same boat of being out of their comfort zone so it was a great time!

A transformative experience!
June 15, 2025by: Gabriel Hernandez - United StatesMy experience in Seville through Toucan Abroad was truly something unforgettable. Not only was everyone very inclusive and kind from the moment we all met, but the personal and professional memories made alongside each and every one of them made it even more special. I learned so much during my time shadowing at my assigned clinics as well. I have gained invaluable insight towards physical therapy as a profession and I had the chance to get involved with a variety of hands-on opportunities which made my learning experience worthwhile as a pre-pt! For anyone wanting to explore the physical therapy profession while also being immersed into a new culture abroad, I highly recommend embarking on this journey with Toucan Abroad. It truly makes a difference being with like-minded individuals who are pursuing the same career. Without question, this program solidified my focus and confirmed my decision to pursue physical therapy as a career.
Sevilla '25
June 09, 2025by: sophia anderson - United StatesThis experience was by far the most career-solidifying physical-therapy experience I have ever had. Being able to be culturally-immersed in a Spanish-speaking country for 3 weeks while constantly learning new things about physical therapy (manual manipulation, technology, techniques) was the coolest experience of my life. Amazing staff/director; put together an extremely fun, yet organized program. If I could do it again I would every time, given the opportunity. Thank you Toucan Abroad! #T4L
From Curiosity to Life-Changing Adventure: My Unforgettable Toucan Abroad Experience
February 25, 2025by: Eldon Tamunang - United StatesI never imagined that a simple Instagram ad would lead to one of the most life-changing experiences of my life. Out of curiosity, I applied to Toucan Abroad, not knowing that this one decision—at the perfect time—would set me on a path to meeting some of the greatest and most amazing people in this world. This internship was more than just an opportunity to shadow incredible physical therapists and learn fascinating techniques across different clinics—it was an adventure, an experience that shaped me in ways I never expected. I never thought I’d make lifelong friends while halfway across the world, but that’s exactly what happened. The memories we made together, the laughter, the late-night talks, the shared awe of experiencing a new culture—it’s something I’ll cherish forever. Meeting and getting to know Phil was an absolute privilege. He had this way of always keeping the mood light, making us laugh, and somehow always knowing exactly what to say. Whether he realized it or not, his words inspired me and pushed me to be the best version of myself. I’ll always look up to him for that. Writing this review took me a while because putting these thoughts into words makes it feel like this experience, those moments, and all of our adventures together are now officially just memories. And while I constantly look back at photos and videos, trying to relive every second, I am beyond grateful that I took this leap. Toucan Abroad changed my life, and if you’re ready to take that same leap of curiosity, I know it will change yours too.
This experience exceeded my expectations!
February 05, 2025by: Brody Stultz - United StatesThis experience gave me a new perspective of the world of physical therapy and people in general. I met so many wonderful people and learned so much from everyone! This was one of the best experiences of my life.
The best experience
January 20, 2025by: Jess Ertsgard - United StatesI had the most amazing experience with Toucan Abroad this January. I was able to create amazing friendships with others who have similar career aspirations, as well as immerse myself in a new culture, and experience learning from physical therapists in a new environment. The directors truly went above and beyond to ensure we had the best experience. I am so glad that I was able to go on this trip and create so many memories that I will never forget.
Best 2 weeks
January 20, 2025by: Matt Baraket - United StatesThis experience was honestly some of the best 2 weeks of my life. The directors were super cool and made sure to go out of their way to help us have a good time. I strongly recommend this for anyone who loves to travel and learn.
Unforgettable Experience
January 20, 2025by: Olivia Welsh - United StatesThis is one of the most unforgettable trip I have experienced. I had a blast getting to know the group and the directors, a lot of laughs, and a lot of knowledge learned in the clinics. I have created lifelong friendships. I highly recommend taking the opportunity to travel with Toucan Abroad!



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Media Gallery
Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Miguel Pacheco
Participated in 2019
Miguel Pacheco is from South Hill, Virginia. He is currently a student in a doctoral physical therapy program in Virginia and will graduate in May 202...

Miguel Pacheco
Participated in 2019
A huge passion of mine is traveling abroad and I believe it brings so much warmth and education on topics that can only be acquired through travel. The curiosity of wanting to learn more is what inspires me to continue looking for the next place to visit. Having an opportunity to combine travel along with an educational experience studying abroad is an even more appealing reason to take the leap of adventure. The university of life as I was once taught by my dad has stuck with me throughout my experiences and it gives me the chance to envision traveling as a lifelong learning opportunity that will forever have a place in my heart.

Fernando Muñoz Amuy
Interviewed in 2023
Fernando was born and raised in Cartago, Costa Rica. In addition to his role at Toucan Abroad, he is a professional chef. After studying gastronomy at...

Fernando Muñoz Amuy
Interviewed in 2023
What inspired you to travel abroad?
As a student, I had the opportunity to travel and learn how different some things outside of my country were done. I want to help people get out of their comfort zones so they can explore different cultures and meet new people. Also, I want to show them all the nice things Costa Rica has to offer to the world.

Ameera Shalash
Participated in 2022
Ameera is an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte. She is majoring in exercise science with a minor in psychology. S...

Ameera Shalash
Participated in 2022
I wanted to go abroad to be able to explore Latin America while also learning more in physical therapy studies. I really wanted to travel abroad to learn more about the latin culture and fully immerse myself in the culture while also gaining a more holistic view of my profession. Lastly, I wanted to push myself to go outside of my comfort zone and really take this opportunity to learn more about myself and grow as a person.

Mia Collins
Participated in 2019
Mia Collins is from Charleston, South Carolina. She earned a B.S. in Exercise Science and a minor in Spanish. Mia has had various shadowing experience...

Mia Collins
Participated in 2019
I have always wanted to study abroad. I've always traveled and love learning about new cultures. One of my favorite reasons to travel is because I enjoy meeting new people and having new experiences and to experience a different culture in an immersive way.
Ready to Learn More?
Toucan Abroad’s goal is to broaden the perspective and form future leaders in the physical therapy field by exposing them to multiple PT specialists demonstrating expert patient care, all within a new culture. We want students to evolve by gaining a more holistic view of the profession, themselves, and the world by being immersed into a different society and shadowing licensed physical therapists. All of our therapists that we partner with are licensed and are fully excited to teach and demonstrate their common physical therapy practices. Not only do you receive clinical observation hours in varied PT specialties, but you get to spend time in Costa Rica exploring the stunning natural beauty and rich culture while making lifelong friends. Toucan Abroad provides the opportunity to stand ou...
Toucan Abroad
Toucan Abroad
Ready to Learn More?
Toucan Abroad’s goal is to broaden the perspective and form future leaders in the physical therapy field by exposing them to multiple PT specialists demonstrating expert patient care, all within a new culture. We want students to evolve by gaining a more holistic view of the profession, themselves, and the world by being immersed into a different society and shadowing licensed physical therapists. All of our therapists that we partner with are licensed and are fully excited to teach and demonstrate their common physical therapy practices. Not only do you receive clinical observation hours in varied PT specialties, but you get to spend time in Costa Rica exploring the stunning natural beauty and rich culture while making lifelong friends. Toucan Abroad provides the opportunity to stand ou...