Hello from beautiful Playa Hermosa! We are so excited to get the summer started.

It’s the beginning of day three, and we’re gearing up for a day of tubing and horseback riding at Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

We’ve spent the past few days getting accustomed to our surroundings, discussing what it’s like to be a traveler versus a tourist, and getting to know each other. And of course, we’ve gone swimming every day so far at the beach, which is just a 5 minute walk down the road.

We’ve also already had some fun animal spottings: iguanas, howler monkeys, and manta rays. The highlight for most of the kids so far has been getting to practice their Spanish with the hotel manager’s three kids who are ages 12, 9, and 4. For us as leaders, this is super exciting because getting to know the local children is going to be a huge part of living in Silencio.

Yesterday we had a great group orientation. The kids showed off their acting skills in skits, we learned tips and tricks about staying healthy, and some fun and interesting facts about Costa Rica. It was a terrific and full first day. Until next time!

Pura vida,

Leah S, Kelsey, Chelsea, Sam, Otis, Leah R, and Cailey