Why did you pick this program?
My older brother had been traveling with Rustic Pathways for several years. The experiences he shared inpired me to explore opportunities available to me. Costa Rica caught my attention with its vibrant flora, diverse wildlife and rich culture.
What do you wish someone had told you before you went abroad?
I wish someone had shown me how to be more organized with my belongings as we were traveling from place to place. However, I quickly figured out a system to make packing more efficient.
What is the most important thing you learned abroad?
I learned that there are many different ways people can live. We were fortunate to spent some time with children of the Makeku people; It impressed upon me how little others may have compared to the privileges many of us benefit from. Seeing the smiles on so many of their faces made me realize that material possesions aren't nesessary for happiness.
What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?
Go, explore with an open mind and open eyes. Soak up the diversity of other cultures and cherish landscapes of new places.
What was the hardest part about going abroad?
Stepping out of my comfort zone and navigating international airports alone for the first time. It was quite an experience to utilize a foreign language that I had only practiced in the classroom.
What's your favorite story to tell about your time abroad?
The most memorable was our stay at the Maleku village where I experienced their indigenous culture and interacted with members of the tribe. We became so friendly that their dog snuck into our bus as we were leaving. He was discovered and put outside. Sadly, he was jogging behind the bus for some time as if he did not want to part with his new friends.
What made this experience unique and special?
In addition to the culture shock, I tried surfing for the first time and it was amazing. I had endless opportunities to photograph nature and the people. One of the guides worth mentioning was an experienced photographer who taught me many techniques I will use in the future.
Tell us about an experience you had that you could not have had at home.
At the Maleku reserve, we went for a hike in the lucious rainforest and came across cascading water falls. We took a dip and scrubbed ourselves with the mineral-rich clay surrounding the river. After letting the red mask sit for ten minutes, we washed it away for glowingly soft skin. Our new orange color cracked some laughs with our peers.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Don't be intimidated by the unknown! You will love it after all.