My initial project was a Turtle Conservation in Camaronal. From the moment I got there to the minute I left, I found something every day that intrigued me and kept me busy. I had night patrol 6 days of the week, where I would dig up the turtle eggs, and relocate them. The park managers would then measure the turtles and record anything important. I felt very blessed at the project, as on the first night I saw a Leatherback turtle – which at the time of my project was extremely rare. I also did beach cleanup at the project during the day. There is quite a bit of free time during the day due to the heat, so I would often have time to play cards with fellow volunteers, or catch up on reading and writing.
After arriving back to San Ramon [the new love of my life] I started with the after-school project, and teaching English at night. Both of these projects are so amazing; I loved every minute of them. They made my stay in Costa Rica that much better. At the afterschool project I played with the kids [I am now an expert at piggy back rides, and uno] and helped with some tasks that the manager didn’t have time to do, such as making candy bags, or cleaning the swings.
I enjoyed the children’s company so much. I actually feel like some of the kids are part of my own family now.
Teaching English at night has also been great; I found that it was the best way to get in touch with the locals, as well as a great way to improve my own Spanish. I felt like I was really helping in the community by going there in the evenings. I would recommend all three of these projects, as they are so wonderful!
On the weekends uVolunteer highly encourages travelling the country and so do I! It has been amazing seeing different regions of Costa Rica, as well as going about with members of the dorm. The best weekends I had were in Monte Verde and Panama. I went to Arenal/La Fortuna/Monte Verde to do white water rafting, zip lining, and the hot springs, all of which were amazingly fun. I really connected with the girls in the dorm that weekend. My last weekend I went to Panama on a Visa Run with Karen, a uVolunteer staff member. I felt honored and privileged to be able to go with her to Panama and had a blast with her and another volunteer. Panama was a great trip filled with many great stories from start to finish. I would highly recommend travelling to anyone who comes to Costa Rica. Not only is it affordable but also a great way to broaden your horizons.
In short, I have loved every last minute of my trip here in Costa Rica, and I would not change a single thing I have done. It is a safe and amazing place to travel. To all those who are considering it, Pura Vida!
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