After a series of legs: SF to Houston or SF to San Salvador and then to San Jose, Costa Rica, followed by a three hour bus ride to Dominical, we finally arrived at Villas Rio Mar. With no cell phones, students quickly came up with creative ways to engage one another and pass the time. Here are some initial posts:
Charlotte — The first day in Costa Rica was an amazing bonding experience with my peers. With traveling on planes, buses and on foot we got to know each other on deeper level. This deeper level of connection brightened up my day and gave me a positive outlook on the rest of this trip.
Julien– this first day in Costa Rica really opened my eyes to a whole new way of living. Seeing people connect on a more profound level without using technology or social media inspired me to use social media and technology less when I am back home. I am now eagerly awaiting for new opportunities to better my self.
Katie — I am looking forward to the rest of this trip! Finding our way through an unknown airport really helped bring the entire group together and create new experiences that only we share. The scenery as we drove through Costa Rica towards Dominical was so different from what we see in San Francisco and it has opened my eyes to the uniqueness of Central America. I am excited to see what Costa Rica has in store for us next!
Robert — I am looking forward to trying new things and adapting new relationships with classmates. I like the idea of the trip being just one class instead of the whole class like the camping trip. Last year, I saw the seniors being really close friends, so I saw the idea of the trip being for those who are young and just starting that way, the relationships can spread even more! Looking forward to a great weekend!
We created our three groups and will spend the next three days cycling the groups rough three rotations:
1. Community Service: sports, painting and distribution of schools supplies collected by the sophomores.
2. Horseback ride to waterfall
3. Zip line eco tour
Here are some pictures of what life with no cell phones looks like. Stay tuned for more!
Convent & Stuart Hall Travel 
Sounds like a great start! Wishing you all an excellent trip!