Linguistic Immersion

Although RACE participants inevitably learn some Spanish during their daily interactions here, our programs facilitate opportunities for true linguistic immersion among Costa Rican natives. All RACE programs are oriented toward interaction with locals through Spanish conversations and a variety of educational activities. The degree of linguistic immersion will be tailored to the group's preferences.

Spanish classes

Our resident Spanish instructors are natives of San Isidro and have certifications in teaching English as a second language. Teachers are also available during outings where interaction with local residents, merchants, etc. is necessary. Language tasks are distributed each day and completed outside the instruction period. Often, tasks involve interaction within the native culture.

Interviews with the Fonseca family

Guests will have the opportunity to interview the Fonseca family, hosts of the Adventure Center. Learn about life in the rainforest with Papa Alvino, a shaman of the Cabécar tribe, Mama Rosa, and their son, Freddie. Discover what it's like to grow up and live year-round in the rainforest while conversing with some of Costa Rica's most outstanding ticos.

Treasure Hunt.

In the Linguistic Immersion program, participants are encouraged to speak as much Spanish as possible and interact with local residents. To do this, the group will be divided into teams and participate in a treasure hunt. The goal is to negotiate throughout the town and trade any object for something more valuable or unique. The adventure ends with a dinner and a presentation by each team, where the winner is selected based on the total number of trades and the most unique final object.

Other Linguistic Immersion activities include: