Student Testimonial: Arcos Journeys Abroad

Paloma Russ - Arcos Journeys Abroad

Why Did You Choose to Participate In This Program?

I chose this program because it had great reviews, and offered a little bit of everything: Spanish classes, home-stay, cultural activities, community service and adventure! Although this was my first time traveling alone and I was really nervous, I really wanted to have a cross cultural experience and challenge myself. Arcos Journeys Abroad made me feel confident that I would be safe and have an excellent time.

How Did You Decide Which Program Was Right For You?

I really wanted to go to a Spanish speaking country and Costa Rica seemed like a great, safe choice for my first time traveling alone. This program offered everything I was looking for (adventure, Spanish immersion, home stay, cultural experiences and community service) all wrapped up in one. Acros Journeys Abroad had great reviews in all areas, particularly safety and that was most important to my parents. The staff at Arcos was always very responsive to any questions we had and the application process was straight forward. Arcos was also an affordable program compared to others and seemed to offer more than others.

What Was A Typical Day In Your Program?

We would begin the day with a delicious homemade breakfast by our host mom, then walk to school where we would have morning Spanish class in a cool open air class room surrounded by trees. In the afternoon we would have cultural activities such as cooking, dance or art. We would also have free time to walk around the cute town. Later, we would have an authentic dinner prepared by our home stay mom and have time to hang out with other kids in the program.

What Was the Most Memorable Moment of Your Program?

Two of my most memorable experiences was zip lining above the canopy of the beautiful Costa Rican jungle. We took a bus ride through the country side and stayed in a hotel with a pool and hot tub. And the second was surfing in the warm, blue waters at Jaco Beach.

What Advice Do You Have For Teens Looking For Summer Programs?

Choose a program that has good ratings in all areas, especially safety. Choose a program in a country that interests you, and offers plenty of activities and cultural experiences. I think it is important to be able to do some type of community service activity as well so that you're giving back to the community and not just being a tourist. I think it's a good idea to be in a program with kids who are generally the same age range. Even though it might be scary, I recommend going by yourself because you will meet so many more new people that way and come home with new friends! I made some really great friends through Arcos Journeys Abroad. It was a real bonding experience!