We have arrived safe and sound here in Costa Rica at our hotel in Dominical, Costa Rica. After a delicious dinner and some sharing of thoughts like “hopeful”, “excited” and “curious”, everyone slept super well. Our first day of adventures where we’ll rotate to one of these three activities: zip-lining at Hacienda Baru, horseback riding with a visit to waterfall at Nauyaca Falls, and serving a local elementary school in our Community Service rotation was exhilarating. We’ll be featuring one rotation these next three days. Check back often for more photos and stories from the students as we upload them when time and our access to internet allows.
TRAVEL DAY Snapshots (United leg)
Here’s our United group photo at Houston headed to Costa Rica, ¡Pura Vida!
As part of our 3+ hour bus drive from the airport in San Jose to Dominical, we stopped by along the way to catch sight of a favorite tourist stop: crocodiles!
DAY ONE Rotation: Hacienda Baru and zip-lining with with Barat Group
Student Reflections:
Yesterday (Monday), my group went on a long but amazing day trip that involved horseback riding, swimming and cliff jumping, and even exploring the Costa Rican habitat. People who haven’t ridden horses before were worried about riding their first time, but the friendliness and compassion from the tour guides really gave these people the bravery they needed to just get on the horse and ride. Awesome experience, would do again #10outta10
– Frederick
The trip has pushed everyone out of their comfort zone in some kind of way. But the entire grade has been supportive and encouraging. Whether it was horse back riding, jumping off a waterfall, or zip lining, the trip has been amazing! I’m excited to work at the school and learn more Spanish. Everyone here is very friendly and is always willing to teach you something.
-Francesca
It’s me again. We had a wonderful day today, despite the hardships we had encountered. My team (team Stuart) went zip-lining today. We had a long and hot hike to get up to the locations, but the rides were thrilling and exciting. I enjoyed the bonding I had with everyone in my group, including my teacher Ms. Hellstrom. The nature was great, and I enjoyed seeing the beauty of Costa Rica today. #parraislife
– Frederick
The group learned about the history of this educational canopy and spied a baby sloth, monkeys and learned about the medicinal use of these “suture” soldier ants:
After dinner, some downtime and (plenty of food!) we celebrated with some traditional music and DANCING!
A great end to DAY ONE!
Check out tomorrow’s live streaming of our traditional Tico (Costa Rican) dancing presentation and activity on our CUBE page HERE.
Convent & Stuart Hall Travel 
Looks like all are having great fun. So glad everyone arrive safely. Enjoy!