Why earn credits in Costa Rica?
- Nicoya Peninsula is one of the World’s Five Blue Zones
- Live near Playa Conchal
- Ecotourism trip to Arenal Volcano
Nicoya Peninsula
Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula is one of the world’s five blue zones. What are blue zones? They are regions with longer-than-average life expectancies—its citizens often reach well beyond 100 years of age. The Nicoya Peninsula has the world’s lowest rate of middle-age mortality and the world’s second-highest concentration of male centenarians ().
National Geographic has conducted studies on these regions to find the determinants that create the happy and healthy longevity of their citizens. Researchers discovered nine key characteristics that all five blue zones have in common, including habits such as natural daily movement and finding one’s sense of purpose. Much can be learned from the citizens of Nicoya, as well as from the city’s infrastructure and economy.
The projects available through this program allow students to learn by seeing and experiencing the amazing blue zone of Nicoya and the surrounding area of Guanacaste.
Playa Conchal
During the course participants will be staying at Reserva Conchal, steps away from Playa Conchal, which is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top beaches. Be immersed in the environment of this breathtaking beach—distinct for its carpet of countless crushed seashells, which extends a warm welcome to those yearning for turquoise waters and bountiful sunshine. Nestled on the Pacific coast, Playa Conchal is not just a beach but a sanctuary for abundant marine life and diverse terrestrial species. Venture out on responsible eco-tours through lush rainforests pulsing with the sounds of exotic wildlife, or dive into the pristine ocean for a sustainable snorkeling experience among vibrant coral reefs.
Travel to Arenal Volcano
After a study trip to Guanacaste, students will enjoy a two-day ecotourism trip to Arenal Volcano, an emblem of Costa Rica's sustainable ethos. Discover this stunning volcanic edifice where thrilling eco-adventures await: wander through rainforests, canoe across Lake Arenal, enjoy geothermal springs, and swim under La Fortuna waterfall, all shadowed by the volcano’s silhouette.
