TEFL Courses & Certification in San Ramon, Costa Rica

My experience with Xplore has been incredible. From the entire staff being supportive in my journey to the practical experiences I learned in my TESOL course, Xplore is most definitely a program I can recommend to anyone that is interested in teaching English abroad.

When I arrived at the airport, I was feeling a little overwhelmed and uncertain. Moving to a new country and joining a program like this was a big step, and I had all kinds of questions running through my mind: Would someone be there to pick me up? Was everything really going to work out as planned? Thankfully, the shuttle arrived right on time, and the staff made the transition to our hostel feel seamless and welcoming. From that point on, the experience became the adventure of a lifetime. Our instructor, Nikki, brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to every lesson, making the coursework engaging and enjoyable. One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to gain real classroom experience. Being able to apply what we were learning in an authentic setting helped build my confidence and better prepare me for teaching. The program also provided a great balance between learning and exploration. We participated in several excursions that felt like fun field trips, allowing us to experience more of Costa Rica while building connections with our classmates. What stood out most was how supportive and knowledgeable the staff were throughout the entire process. They even helped me navigate my journey from San Ramón to my teaching placement in Guanacaste after the program ended. Their support didn't stop there—they have continued to check in and make sure I am adjusting well to my new school, and I feel comfortable reaching out whenever I have questions or concerns. I have truly enjoyed the teaching position they helped me secure and am grateful for the opportunities this program has provided. Overall, I found the experience to be well worth the investment, and I would highly recommend it to anyone considering teaching abroad.

This was truly a beautiful experience—one I’d recommend to anyone, whether you’re an aspiring teacher, healer, artist, or any other walk of life. It may terrify you, intimidate you and possibly make you question your life choices, but I assure you, you will not regret it. To have the ability to step out of your comfort zone is in itself a blessing and what better way to learn more about yourself than by being an English Teacher. I had a 6 month contract at Colegio Victoria in Costa Rica where I covered for another teacher who was on a maternity leave. I've already had experience as a teacher but this type of role was completely new to me for 2 main reasons. I found myself teaching an older age group, despite having little experience with that level, and a subject I wasn’t very versed in: American Literature. It pushed me well beyond my comfort zone! So I decided to dig deep as I usually do. With my background in Art as a 2D animator I connected the dots and realized the similarities between literature and 2D animation. The concept of creating fiction in any medium has always been innate to me and the appreciation of a well-written story has always been present with me. When my workload felt overwhelming I used Ai tools to assist me in the Literature Analysis as well. I felt accepted by the students and staff because I was upfront about my learning curve and although I faced challenges, I decided to make the best of it. Currently, I am still in Costa Rica living with my girlfriend (a fellow teacher) and may even consider becoming a resident here.

Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia) responded to this reviewJanuary 09, 2026

Alex, it was really great to meet you in August for our teacher meet up! Thanks so much for taking the time to tell us about your experience in Costa Rica. Looking forward to what the future holds for you, pura vida! :) - Jordayne

Doing my TEFL and placement through Xplore Asia in Costa Rica was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The team was so supportive from day one — organized, friendly, and always there to help, whether it was with lesson planning or figuring out how not to get lost on my way to class. The TEFL course was way more engaging than I expected. The instructors made everything practical and fun, and by the end I actually felt confident teaching English (which still surprises me). The placement they found for me in Costa Rica was perfect. The school was welcoming, the kids were hilarious and full of energy, and the staff made me feel at home instantly. Outside of teaching, the experience was just as incredible. I met so many amazing people in the program, and we explored beaches, waterfalls, and little local spots I never would’ve found on my own. I genuinely felt supported the entire time — not just professionally, but personally. If you’re looking for an adventure, real cultural immersion, and a program that actually cares about you, I can’t recommend Xplore Asia enough. Costa Rica became a second home for me, and this program is a huge reason why. 💛🌴✨

Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia) responded to this reviewJanuary 09, 2026

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and kind review, Sydney. It truly means a lot and perfectly captures what makes the experience so special. We really appreciate your support and are so glad Costa Rica became a second home for you. Looking forward to seeing your journey unfold this year. - Jordayne

I really enjoyed my classes and the students I got to teach over the academic year. My house and neighbour were lovely and peaceful. I got to date, go out and explore Costa Rica in a fun and safe way. The pay was good, and everyone has been friendly to me. However, I've never been paid on time, I've been ignored, overworked, and stressed to the point of illness. The admin at my school is the worst I've ever seen. They make me feel undervalued and like they don't want me. This has been mostly over the last three months that I have lived here, which is a shame as it tarnishes a lot of the good times I had here.

Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia) responded to this reviewDecember 09, 2025

Hi Leo, thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re glad to hear you enjoyed your students, your community, and your time exploring Costa Rica. We’re sorry to learn that the final part of your contract was more challenging than expected. We appreciate you bringing these points to our attention, I know we have been in contact with you about this but should you require any further support, we are just a message/call away. Your feedback is valuable! We wish you all the best in your next steps. - Jordayne

Hello, my name is Nay and I am super excited to share my experience living here in Costa Rica, each day is truly an adventure! While living in Costa Rica, I have visited a number of places and different environments. I’ve been to waterfalls, beaches, National forests, and different communities. I have enjoyed all of this however my favorite part is the people! The different communities have been so kind and have spent their time and days teaching me and my colleagues the culture. It’s been a wonderful to truly experience Costa Rica for what it truly is, a mixing post full of different cultures, animals, and spaces.

Moving to Costa Rica alone to teach English was one of the biggest leaps of my life—but Xplore turned that leap into a landing. They placed me in an incredible multicultural school filled with educators from every corner of the world. The blend of cultures has been both thrilling and challenging in the best way. When a significant issue came up, Xplore stepped in immediately and handled everything with professionalism and genuine care. I’m still happily teaching at the same school, growing not only in the local language and culture but also through the perspectives of colleagues from around the globe. What has meant the most to me is the safety net Xplore has provided throughout this transition. Moving to a new country is never easy, and the tough moments were very real—but Xplore showed up with resources, guidance, and steady support every step of the way. They strike the perfect balance: available when you need help, yet respectful of your independence. I’m deeply grateful for their expertise, responsiveness, and the reassurance they’ve given me on this journey. It has truly made all the difference.

Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia) responded to this reviewDecember 23, 2025

So glad we were able to be there for you Tiny, and hope to be your support throughout your teaching abroad adventure, always! - Jordayne

XploreAmericas was very helpful in welcoming teachers of varying experience levels from all over the world and training them to become ESL teachers in Central America. I loved my cohort, my professor, and the director. Having a community is so vital when you first move to another country. Through XploreAmericas I was able to move to Costa Rica and gain my TESOL Certification with other foreigners and live together with them. The Christmas we spent together was one of my most memorable. The XploreAmericas team is very proactive in helping teachers find a placement within the country. They also continue to check in with their alumni after being placed. I felt safe and informed while I was in the program. I had multiple opportunities to embrace the culture of Costa Rica and become integrated into the local "Pura Vida" lifestyle through both everyday interactions and fun excursions that were included in the programming. I especially enjoyed a day at a waterfall park and making tamales with a local charity. The 120-hour TESOL course was fairly easy to complete and my professor, Amy, was amazing. This program will challenge you to expand your view of the world and reward you with newfound skills, experience, and friendships.

Teaching abroad has not only taught me some unique skills for managing people of all kinds and ages and how to treat people and educate them, but also has provided so many interesting perspectives on life. From food to language to jokes, to polite gestures and so on. The list is endless. Through teaching and being able to travel, I’ve probably learned more life experience and knowledge in 10 months than I did in 3 years of university classes. This experience is unlike anything else.

Great experience completing my TESOL course with xploreasia. Staff and team are very friendly, knowledgeable and fun. San Ramon was an interesting place to study for the month and it gives you a great experience to start your Costa Rica and teaching journey. I highly recommend - they also help you secure a job once you have completed your course.

Moving to Costa Rica genuinely changed the course of my life. The journey started with earning my TEFL certification. During that time, I met people from all over the world and slowly became part of a warm, welcoming local community. Even though we didn’t always understand each other, kindness was the language everyone spoke, and that made everything easier. After training, we got placed in our jobs. I chose an online position so I could live anywhere I wanted, but I loved Costa Rica so much that I decided to stay. I ended up splitting my time for the year—half in a laid-back beach town, half in the energy of the city. The best of both worlds: ocean mornings and urban nights, quiet nature and vibrant culture. Costa Rica taught me how to slow down, appreciate life, and connect deeply with people. The sense of community, the pura vida mindset, and the everyday warmth of the people made it impossible to imagine going back to my old life in the US & I never did. Today, I'm living my third year in Spain, still building on the confidence, curiosity, and love for life that Costa Rica sparked in me. Moving there wasn’t just a chapter—it was the turning point that shaped everything that came after.

I cannot say enough about how much Xplore positively changed my life. From the TEFL program, to helping me choose the job that was right for me, to even supporting me when I had any problems in the country, including medical emergencies well after I left the course. I made some of my friends that I will have for life doing this program. I truly cannot say enough good things about this experience and I wish I could go back every single day!!

Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia) responded to this reviewDecember 23, 2025

Erin, thank you so much for taking the time to leave a few words about your experience in Costa Rica! Even though we did not directly work together, it brings me such joy, as a fellow Xplore alumni, to read about peoples positive experiences! All the best, Jordayne

I came to Costa Rica to teach through the Xplore program. I have had an amazing time. The orientation really gets you immersed in the location and culture. Everyone has been so helpful, and even though I haven't been placed yet, they are working hard to get me placed. Everyone in the program has been wonderful!

Moving to Costa Rica was my second placement with Xplore. Staff was also checking on each step of the way to help me prepare. I had many schools request interviews and I received 3 offers! I was able to truly think about exactly where and what I wanted to teach. The orientation week was amazing and we really built a community. I highly recommend Xplore for teaching abroad and building relationships with other teachers.

This program changed my life! The support from the Xplore team, the cultural immersion in-country is unmatched. I really enjoyed learning the skills I needed to be a teacher and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of teaching in Costa Rica. Sure, there are ups and downs with any experience of this nature, but it has been a huge opportunity for growth for me personally. I encourage everyone to say YES, take that leap!

I’ve had such a journey here in Costa Rica. I was at a job in San Jose for 6 months and loved the experience but the work hours were a lot for me. I didn’t want to burn out because I loved teaching and the effect it has on others and myself. So I decided to move out to Jacó and work at bilingual school there. It has been a journey and challenging here but I’m enjoying all the good times. I’ve traveled so much around Costa Rica. I have seen so much and learned so much and I still have so much to learn and see which is so exciting. It’s been a challenge but in the best possible way. I wouldn’t have asked for a better year in Costa Rica. Pura vida!

I took the TESOL course late March of this year and I have been living and teaching here in Costa Rica ever since. The program set me up with a beautiful school to work with along with some online courses to teach for suplimentary income. A lot of the schools here provide housing and/or you are provided great resources by Xplore and the schools themselves. The XploreAsia program helped me to feel confident in my teaching skills in such a short amount of time. Since starting I've taught all ages and even taught a little in Nicaragua while traveling.

This program was fun, informative, challenging,rewarding, and mind opening all in one. The staff and teams working to ensure all students were accommodated, housed, and looked after during the program was amazing! They are extremely inclusive and give you real life experience in teaching online and in person. The orientation week is an immersive experience where they show you The countries culture,foods, local actiities and customs. Our instructor was very knowledgeable from real life experience and was actually a student like myself prior to teaching us. Overall the experience has been amazing and I'm excited for my next adventure with Xplore.

Relocating to another country is a monumental endeavor, filled with uncertainties and challenges. Thankfully, Xplore was by my side every step of the way, transforming what could have been an overwhelming process into a seamless and enriching experience. From the outset, their team demonstrated unwavering dedication, patiently addressing my countless questions—no matter how many times I asked. Their commitment ensured that I never felt left behind or unsupported. A special acknowledgment goes to Jordayne, my liaison at Xplore. She consistently encouraged me to step beyond my comfort zone and provided steadfast support throughout the transition. Her genuine care extended beyond professional obligations; she regularly checked in on my well-being, ensuring I felt secure and confident in my new environment. The journey of relocating is not for the faint-hearted, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities. However, Xplore's meticulous attention to detail and personalized approach made my transition remarkably smooth. Their placement program was exceptional. While they encouraged openness to various job opportunities, their dedication and hard work resulted in securing a position that exceeded my expectations. I am now part of a school community that I deeply cherish, surrounded by inspiring teachers and enthusiastic students.I am profoundly grateful to Xplore for being an integral part of this life-changing journey. Their support and professionalism have left an indelible mark on my relocation experience.

I'm so glad I decided to start this journey with Xplore! Jordayne, Didi and Thando were extremely helpful with keeping me on track with documentation requirements, interview prep and decision making once job offers started to come in. The process was smooth and easy. I only did the placement part as I already had an online TEFL Certification, but having the orientation week to get to know other people in the same position was invaluable. The activities during the orientation week were amazing and gave you an insight to Costa Rican life. The in-country team were great too, Honey and Dustin were extremely welcoming and available to give advice whenever needed. Highly recommend Xplore Asia!