Submitted by Benjamin Pradell on the 2018 winter session program in Costa Rica sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures…
My first two weeks in Costa Rica have been tumultuous, but truly remarkable at the same time. I am living with a host family, who only speaks Spanish, so it truly has been a major adjustment. I was extremely nervous leading up to the program because I did not have confidence in my abilities to communicate with my host family and with locals in general, and at first it was hard, but I have learned so much by the immersion and am finding it increasingly easier to speak with them and understand what they are saying.
Maybe the biggest adjustment has been the food, as they eat a diet made up primarily of rice and beans down here, which are two things I did not really enjoy back home, but they have actually become some of my favorite foods and I can see myself drastically change how I eat when I come home! The fruits and vegetables are much fresher down here than in the United States, and you can taste it. Also, some of the fruits they have down here are things I have never heard of before, such as star fruit, which is actually quite delicious!
The country itself is remarkable and truly beautiful. We live in Heredia, which is the next town over from San José and is located in the central valley, and my view walking to class every morning is breathtaking, as you see the mountains off in the distance covered by clouds. We have gone on many excursions, ranging from museums to markets to animal sanctuaries and hikes, and the last two have been my favorite by far. Visiting animal sanctuaries, particularly the Toucan Rescue Ranch which is located in Heredia, was an experience unlike any other, as we learned about their mission of rehabilitation and releasing the animals back into the wild, and I got some beautiful pictures of the animals.
The two fingered sloths had to be my favorite, as they might be the cutest animals I have ever seen! The hikes have also been incredible, as we hiked along a river and I captured some beautiful pictures, as well as bonded with the rest of the students in my group. This program has given me a whole new appreciation for nature and I understand why Costa Rica works so hard to protect it, as over 25% of their land is located in national parks and reserves. I also understand why Costa Ricans (or Ticos) are so happy, as they live in a truly breathtaking and wonderful place! I cannot wait for the coming weeks to see more of this country and its people! See you soon, and as they say down here, Pura Vida!