Studying abroad in Costa Rica has profoundly shifted my perspective on the Spanish-speaking world. Prior to this experience, my knowledge was primarily limited to the language and a few cultural stereotypes. However, living in Costa Rica unveiled a vibrant and multifaceted world I had never fully appreciated.

The most notable change has been recognizing the immense diversity within the Spanish-speaking world. I came to understand that each country has its unique cultural identity, shaped by its history, geography, and people. The customs, traditions, and way of life in Costa Rica were distinct from what I had previously encountered in textbooks, shedding light on the rich tapestry of Hispanic cultures.

Moreover, my grasp of the Spanish language transformed from a mere academic skill to a practical and essential means of communication. Immersed in everyday conversations, I became attuned to regional dialects and colloquial expressions, making me more fluent and culturally sensitive.

Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental conservation, its breathtaking landscapes, and the profound influence of nature on its culture made me realize the intimate relationship between environment and culture in the Spanish-speaking world. This insight prompted me to delve deeper into the eco-conscious attitudes and practices of other Hispanic nations.

Lastly, the warmth and hospitality of the Costa Rican people revealed the profound importance of relationships in Hispanic cultures. Their strong sense of community and family values emphasized the significance of human connections, prompting me to reevaluate my own priorities and the value of interpersonal bonds.

In summary, my study abroad experience in Costa Rica has expanded my view of the Spanish-speaking world by highlighting its rich diversity, deepening my connection to the Spanish language, fostering my awareness of the environment-culture interplay, and underscoring the importance of relationships within Hispanic societies. This transformative journey has enriched my perspective on this dynamic and multifaceted global community.

 Here’s a list of my favorite experiences I had while I was there:

Manuel Antonio

• Met a shaman and, had it not been for the lack of time, would have undergone an energy reading. He told me about his time spent in Denver and his sister, who spreads awareness of their tribe in New York.
• Saw monkeys throughout town and sloths resting on the beach
• Went parasailing!

Puerto Viejo

• I sat by the ocean with live Calypso music in the background under the twinkle lights of the restaurant behind me
• Tried some jerk chicken from the street vendors who bathed in the sun playing dominoes and drinking

Montezuma

• Watched a fire show and spoke with local musicians
• Went to a fugata party with those same locals late into the night

Bocas del toro

• Danced the night away in clubs that sat right above the water and soaked in the most beautiful views

Guatemala

• Climbed a live volcano and ate marshmallows roasted from its heat
• Watched chocolate being made from scratch
• Watched a weaver in action
• Visited a Mayan honey farm

La Fortuna

• Rested under a gorgeous waterfall and bathed in hot springs

Jaco

• Talked through the night with Nicaraguan immigrants

By Kaitlyn Harris