Exploring Every Corner of Costa Rica

I'm Cassian Gerasimenko and I studied abroad with CIS Abroad in San José, Costa Rica! When I first stepped off the plane, I had no idea that the next month would completely transform my perspective on life, sustainability, and what it means to truly live in harmony with nature. My study abroad experience in this incredible Central American paradise wasn't just an academic adventure—it was a journey of personal discovery that I'll carry with me forever.

Costa Rica is a small country, roughly the size of West Virginia, and they make it well known that it is home to nearly 6% of the world's biodiversity despite covering only 0.03% of the Earth's surface. Discovering this biodiversity was one of the things that our travel group bonded over; we witnessed the infamous howler monkeys that are nested in the rainforest canopy; we witnessed the three-toed sloth hanging lazily from above; my friend and I watched an iguana cross the road outside of the resort we were staying at. Costa Rica seemed to be so unreal in every way.

One of the most striking aspects of Costa Rica is how different the landscape is from one coast to another. On the Atlantic side, I spent an unforgettable day at Playa Negra in the town of Puerto Viejo. Time seems to move slower in this part of the country, on account of people being laid back and very hospitable, in my experience! Experiencing the black sand beach, which was a direct byproduct of the volcanic ash that had embedded itself into the ground so long ago, felt like stepping onto another planet. The contrast between the dark sand and turquoise Caribbean waters was exciting, and I though I left the small town too soon, I did not leave with an empty stomach – the Caribbean and Central American cuisines offered all throughout Limón added a unique flavor to my Costa Rican experience.

The Pacific coast offered an entirely different adventure at Playa Blanca, where rocky tide pools hosted a very cool array of marine life. It was on this CIS-sponsored excursion that I played a pickup game of soccer on the beach, explored the rock formations all along the coast, and made many new friends.

My mornings often began at Libertario Coffee Roasters in San José, less than a 20 minute walk away from the local university where I studied. While abroad, I learned firsthand about Costa Rica's rich coffee heritage. The country has been cultivating coffee since the early 1800s, and it remains one of their most important exports. Costa Rican coffee is renowned for its high quality, which I learned is due to the altitude and geographical positioning of the soil. Sitting in that café, laptop open and enjoying a perfectly crafted iced latte, I completed assignments while immersed in the culture I was studying.

Perhaps the most awe-inspiring sight was Arenal Volcano, straddling the border between Alajuela and Guanacaste provinces. This active volcano served as a reminder of the powerful geological forces that shaped this land. Our site director took us to this exact spot and let us take the whole scene in. I remember how, even on cloudy days when the peak disappeared into the mist, its presence was unmistakable.

Living in Costa Rica taught me to slow down and appreciate the present moment. The "pura vida" philosophy isn't just a greeting, but more so a way of life that emphasizes gratitude, simplicity, and joy in everyday experiences. I returned home with a deeper understanding of the environment, a profound appreciation for my host mother, and a desire to go back one day.

Here are 3 things I’d wish I’d known before going:

1. Learn basic Spanish before you arrive.

While many people speak English, making an effort with Spanish opens doors to deeper cultural connections and more authentic experiences. Learning elementary Spanish can help you in the Uber ride, and at the restaurants you will inevitably visit.

2. Pack for two seasons.

A tour guide once said that Costa Rica has two seasons: wet, and wetter. No matter when you go, the weather can vary dramatically depending on elevation and region. I learned that, if you go in June, the days will be hot and sunny in the mornings, and rainy in the afternoon.

3. Watch your budget.

While Costa Rica can be affordable, adventure activities like zip-lining, wildlife tours, and national park visits add up quickly. There are, however, plenty of ways to have fun without spending too much money! In San José alone, you might consider seeing some live jazz music every Saturday at Edificio Steinvorth for free, or using your student ID to get a discounted entrance into the many museums downtown.

Learn more about CIS Abroad programs in Costa Rica here!