CBA in Costa Rica
The CBA in Costa Rica Program includes pre-travel seminars, site visits, company tours, a service learning component and time to enjoy the local culture and natural environment. The 10-day study abroad program will involve stays in four different areas of the country:
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•The capital city, San José: As the center of the Costa Rican government and the location of the US Embassy, San José is our starting point for this study abroad trip. We'll study regulatory issues on economic development, sustainability and eco-tourism through meetings with government officials and trade associations. We'll also tour US and Costa Rican companies in the area. San José also offers cultural enrichment sites such as the National Theater and jade and gold museums.
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•La Fortuna, near the Arenal volcano: Once a sleepy agricultural town, La Fortuna is the primary gateway to the Arenal volcano. We'll visit the still active (but safe) Arenal volcano, the hot springs, waterfalls and area natural parks. Our business visits will be to fruit plantations and eco-tourism providers. We'll enjoy a dinner at the Springs Resort after enjoying the resort's thermal waters.
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•Monteverde: Known for its unique cloud forest reserves, Monteverde was settled by the Quakers. Attracted by the area's cool mountain climate, the Quakers established dairy farming and cheese production in the area. Our business visits will be to a cheese factory, coffee plantations and other local businesses. We'll also take a zip-line canopy tour at Selvatura Park (15 cables and 18 platforms).
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•Guanacaste, Tamarindo: Located on the Pacific Ocean, this area was named by Forbes magazine as Costa Rica’s most popular beach. The hotel provides the best of everything--white sands, tropical gardens and easy access to the town. You’ll even be able to watch the sunset on the Pacific from your oceanview balcony! We'll study the ways in which this region has attempted to balance development and conservation. We'll also see leatherback turtles nesting at Playa Grande (if they aren't too bashful!). We'll have free time for deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, surfing or just lounging on the beach.
Links to hotels:
Country Inn & Suites, San José
Volcano Lodge (Photo shown above)