Many students and their parents wonder, "what is a homestay?", "what kind of home?", "what kind of people?", "where are these homes?". When you arrive at the airport, a representative of the school meets you. You are then taken to your host family. You will actually stay in their living quarters and can become a part of the family. Their homes are clean and ordinary. These are Costa Rican families who truly welcome you. They will do everything in their power to please you.

There is hardly any English spoken but you will learn you Spanish much faster when there is no other choice. It becomes fun and a challenge. Costa Rican food is delicious and there is always the smell of good cooking and coffee. This family cooks three meals a day that is if you are hungry. At first three meals might seem like a lot of food but around two days later when class is almost over you will be looking forward to those meals.

Usually you will walk to the school , which is within the area. The total area of Guácima is in walkin distance. When you start out in the morning, it is a pure delight. Everyone speaks, "Buenos días" even though they have never seen or met you before. It is the right thing to replay, "Buenos Días". You will note that people in Costa Rica work hard with difficult circumstances but still manage to greet you with a sincere smile and kind word. As you continue your stroll towards the school you can take note of some beautiful white cows with long flappy ears. Go to the fence and say "Hola". They will come over to greet you.

Depending on how long you stay, you will become quite attached to your "Costa Rican family". However if you are not pleased, then consult either Clara or Enrique. Everyone's culture is different and the best method in learning a language is learning the culture. You will receive these valuable assets with homestays.