predeparture playa tamarindo ls 2012
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Predeparture Playa Tamarindo LS 2012TRANSCRIPT
www.ef.comImportant Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.
LanguageCourses AbroadFor adults and students aged 16 & above
EF International Language Centers
Accreditations and Memberships
The EF International Lan-guage Centers in London,
Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol
and Bournemouth are:
EF Dublin is accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers
in the USA are members of:
The EF Internation-al Language Cent-
ers in the USA are accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in
Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are accredited by:
EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qual-ité Français Langue
Etrangère.
EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited by Languages Canada.
All EF Courses are certified by Southern
New Hampshire University.
EF Education is an active participant in
the Comité Européen de Normalisation.
The EF International Language Centers
in Brisbane and Perth are mem-
bers of:
The EF International Language Centers in
Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are
accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge,
Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bourne-mouth are members of:
All EF Courses are recog-nized by Hult International
Business School.
Federation of International Youth
Travel Organizations.
Playa Tamarindo
Playa Langosta
Parque Nacional las Baulas
Lago de Nicaragua
COSTA RICA
Pacific Ocean
Guanacaste
NicoyaPeninsula
Santa Rosa National Park
San JoséCartago
Pan AmericanHighway
Liberia
Santa Cruz
EF Playa Tamarindo
Watch a video
Or visit us atFacebook.com/EFPlayaTamarindo
Playa TamarindoWelcome to Costa Rica, a rich, natural paradise
with a permanent spring climate. Spend your year
in Tamarindo with EF where you will learn Spanish
in a relaxed beach town with a youthful nightlife and
access to untouched nature.
Contact details:EF Escuela Internacional de Español, Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa RicaTel: +(506) 2 653 2095
Section Topic
1 ..........Introduction to EF
2 ..........Welcome to Costa Rica
3 ..........Weather watch
4 ..........Travel & transfer service
5 ..........School information
6 ..........Academics
7 ..........Accommodation & meals
8 ..........Money matters
9 ..........Phones, faxes & Internet
10 ........Health care & insurance
11 ........School activities & excursions
12 ........Transportation
13 ........Expectations
14 ........Costa Rican culture & living tips
15 ........Adjusting to a new culture
16 ........EF school calendar & holidays
17 ........Checklist
Contents - Playa Tamarindo
Dear Student
Thank you for choosing EF Tamarindo to study
Spanish. The staff and I are very excited to meet
you. We will introduce you to the school, the town of
Tamarindo and help you make this an experience of a
lifetime! You will be surrounded by a new culture from
the moment you arrive and will have the opportunity
to make friends with both Ticos (people from Costa
Rica) and fellow classmates from all over the world.
The warm weather of Guanacaste offers you an
enjoyable atmosphere to study and to participate in
all kinds of outdoor activities. EF is surrounded by the
rich nature of this exquisite countryside. You can get
a sun tan, or go surfing, fishing and diving from its
beautiful beaches or head inland into the depth of its
verdant jungles. We look forward to meeting you in
Tamarindo!
Best wishes,
Melisa Soto, School Director
EF International Language Center,
Playa Tamarindo
3 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
2. Welcome to TamarindoTamarindo, located on the North West Coast
of Costa Rica in the province of Guanacaste,
is well-known for its spectacular coast lines,
golden beaches, and fantastic surfing opportu-
nities year round.
Tamarindo is a small developing coastal town
built on the estuary of a river. While the town is
growing quickly, it still maintains a rustic charm,
warm open friendliness, and relaxed tropical air.
It has many restaurants, bars and nightclubs,
several shops with art and handicrafts. There is
year round sun and blue skies, with afternoon
showers in the rainy season. Temperatures range
from between 72ºF (22ºC) and 92ºF (34ºC).
A variety of beaches lie close to Tamarindo,
each with their own charm, distinction and
challenge for the adventurous surfers or keen
naturalist. Outdoor activities abound in the
immediate area, including: fishing, sailing,
snorkelling, diving and kayaking. Giant turtle
watching is another popular attraction. Heading
inland you can go off-roading on quads, bikes
or hiking on foot. There is much to discover in
the rich diversity of Costa Rica including the
famous Volcano of Arenal and the many natural
parks full of biodiversity and wildlife. In conjunc-
tion are the adventure of long canopy rides
through the parks’ tree tops, the adrenaline
of riding high above the jungle’s floor and the
breathtaking views from such heights. If you still
have energy in the evening you can dance until
the early hours to the rhythmic beats of salsa
and reggae or if that’s too hectic take it easy
relaxing in hot springs, a chilled bar or simply
swing away in one of the many hammocks
strung between the trees.
The school is situated above the Tamarindo
town centre, catching the cool breeze as it
sweeps off the sea. It is set amongst many
beautiful trees and tropical plants and is home
to Congo monkeys and several large iguanas
which wander around the pool.
3. Weather WatchThe subtropical climate of the Guancaste
province is ideal for outdoor sports, activities
and recreation as the average temperature is
92ºF (34ºC) in the summer and 80.5ºF (27°C) in
the winter. Sunshine prevails all year round! The
winter months (June-November) are character-
ised by afternoon rain showers followed by nice
weather. Rainfall is very heavy in the months of
October and November. You should bring sun
block for adequate protection from the strong
tropical sun.
4. Travel & TransferTransfer Service
Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be
confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service
from Santamaría International Airport (San Jose)
or The Daniel Oduber International Airport of
Liberia to the school residence or your home-
stay. It is strongly recommended that you take
advantage of this service and that you try to fly
into Liberia as the transfer is much quicker.
At least one month before your arrival, you
must inform the EF office in your country of the
exact details of your flight (date, arrival time,
airline, and flight number). This assists us in
preparing for your arrival.
Before you leave your home country, you
should put EF baggage tags on each piece
of luggage (including your carry-on baggage)
indicating your home address and the address
of the EF school. This will help in the location
and recovery of your luggage in case it is lost or
misdirected during your travel. If you have paid
for an EF transfer, please follow the instructions
below. If you have arranged for an EF transfer
and take a taxi instead, EF will not be able to
reimburse you later.
When you arrive at the airport on an interna-
tional flight, look for the EF Greeter after you
pass through customs. He or she will be wear-
ing an EF T-shirt and/or carrying an EF sign.
The greeter will be waiting for you outside the
main arrivals exit. If you have waited longer than
1. Introduction to EFEF Education First, welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language at our schools all over the world. Our innovative curriculum uses an intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and so-cial activities, resulting in a fast and fun way to learn a language.
EF students come from diverse backgrounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for many years to take advantage of this opportunity.
A large percentage of our students ap-ply their new language skills by taking a recognized exam. Successful completion provides the necessary language qualifi-cations for university and for professional endeavours. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives whilst honing language and study skills.
A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international com-munity where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.
4 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
30 minutes, call the EF emergency phone, the
number will be given to you by your local EF
office before your departure.
If you are unable to locate the EF Greeter, have
missed one of your flights, have arrived on a
different flight or date or are lost; you should
go to the nearest pay telephone and call the
EF emergency number given to you from your
local office before your departure.
Students Arriving Independently
If you are staying at the residence and are
taking private transport to the EF student resi-
dence, please try to get there between 12:00
pm and 6:00 pm. An RA will be waiting to
welcome you and show you to your room.
If you would like to take a taxi, follow the signs
from the baggage claim area to the taxi stand.
A taxi ride to Tamarindo from Liberia will take a
little over an hour and will cost approximately
$60.00 plus tip. From San Jose it is a little over
five hours and will cost up to $200.
If you are staying at a homestay and are travel-
ling independently, you should go directly to your
homestay. In this case, please try to let your
hosts know ahead of time when to expect you.
5. School InformationFacilities
The school is located just outside the main
town centre, which means it is very quiet and
peaceful. The building is colonial in design and
built around a pool where students can relax
after classes. The building also has shaded
patio areas, terraces and balconies which
overlook the school and surrounding nature.
We have a barbecue area for students to
cook-out on and a small café which serves
food and drinks. The school is fully equipped
with AC and with wireless Wi-Fi Internet, so
students bringing laptops will have Internet
access. There is a computer lab which is open
for classes and for checking personal email.
EF staff
The School Director is assisted by an Academic
Director, an Administrative Coordinator, and an
Activities Coordinator. The Activities Coordinator
can assist students in arranging travel plans, or-
ganising social events, games and excursions.
EF has staff members who live in the school
and will help you get settled into the residence
when you arrive. The Resident Advisor (RA)
oversees student life in the residence and is also
available in case of an emergency.
6. AcademicsThe EF academic programme gives students
the opportunity to study the Spanish language
and the Costa Rican culture for as long and
with as much intensity as suits the student and
his or her needs. Intensive, Exam Preparation
and General courses of study are available at
EF Costa Rica. All students will attend gram-
mar, listening, speaking, reading and writing
classes.
Orientation
On your first day of orientation, you will be
tested in your knowledge of the Spanish
language with a fluency test. This testing will
measure your grammar and listening com-
prehension abilities. From the results of this
testing, you will be placed into one of eight
different language levels.
At this time you will also receive your class
schedule. As your Spanish language skills
become stronger, you will be promoted into
the next language level. You may speak with
your teacher if you feel you have been placed
into the wrong level. Please note that you will
alternate between morning and afternoon
classes.
Special Interest Courses
General and Intensive courses include a num-
ber of Special Interest classes (SPINS). After
your level test you will be given a choice of a
number of SPINS. Some of these options re-
quire intermediate level Spanish or above. Also
a minimum number of students are required
for each option. The selection of SPIN classes
vary throughout the year so each semester
may have a different set of SPIN classes.
Course books
As part of your academic program, you’ll be
expected to buy the books and classroom
materials that you will use in class. The exact
number of books that you’ll need is determined
by your academic level, progress and choice of
special interest classes. If you wish to buy ad-
ditional books you may need more money. The
books you buy are yours to keep, write in and
take home with you for future reference.
Attendance
At the end of your course you will receive a
certificate showing that you have attended
classes regularly. However, please note that in
order to be eligible for an EF certificate, stu-
dents are expected to participate in class and
must attend at least 80% of all classes.
7. Accommodation & MealsYou can choose to live in local homestay or
residence accommodation. For your comfort
and safety please observe the following rules in
either accommodation options:
❚ The taking of drugs is strictly forbidden.
Students not respecting this rule will be sent
home immediately at their own expense.
❚ No animals are allowed in the rooms.
❚ No open flames (candles etc) are allowed in
the rooms. No alcohol is allowed on campus.
All students must pay a $100 key and dam-
age deposit upon arrival. The deposit will be
returned to you at the end of the programme,
less any charges for a dirty or damaged room,
lost key or other outstanding costs incurred
while at the school. Lost keys cost $50.00.
Homestay Accommodation
Please advise your EF office, or your homestay
of your expected arrival time. This will allow the
homestay to plan their day accordingly and to
make sure there is someone there when you
arrive.
Any special request for arranging additional
nights should be confirmed with your sales
office prior to departure. Please note: most
homes in Costa Rica are not air conditioned
and have no hot water; our homestay families
are no exception.
Bedroom: You will be provided with bed linens,
closet space and towels. You will also have
access to a desk or table, which may be in an-
other room. You will share a room with another
student unless you specifically request a single
room, in which case there is a supplementary
fee. Your roommate will be a student of a dif-
ferent nationality, although we are not able to
guarantee this year round.
Bathroom: Please be considerate of the fam-
ily’s habits when using the bathroom. Please
also be aware that all sanitary products, includ-
5 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
ing toilet paper MUST be disposed of in the
waste paper bins and NOT down the toilet.
Laundry: Your hosts will wash your sheets and
towels. They will also do one load of washing
a week of your clothes. Please do not wash in
the bathroom and dry them in your room. All
families have a laundry room, ask them where
it is.
Inviting friends: Please ask your hosts before
you invite friends into the family’s home. Please
do not expect your hosts to serve meals to
your friends.
Damages: Should you cause any damages to
your host’s property, inform them immediately
and settle the matter directly with them. EF
acts only as a mediator and cannot assume re-
sponsibility for any damages you have caused.
Telephones: Do not use your host’s telephone
without asking them first. If you want to make
a phone call to your own country, reverse the
charges, use a phone card or have your family
to call you.
Keys: You will most likely be given a key to your
home. Please keep it safe. If you lose it, you
may have to pay for it, which could be expen-
sive since the locks will need to be changed.
Meals: You will have your meals (breakfast and
dinner Monday-Friday and all meals on the
weekends) together with your hosts at their
meal times. If you plan not to eat at home,
please let your hosts know ahead of time.
Usually dinner will take place at around 7 pm.
During school days it is usual to have a second
breakfast at the 9.20 am break in order to keep
going until lunchtime. For lunch you can buy a
snack/sandwich or cooked meal at the school
cafeteria. Please respect yoru host’s privacy at
lunchtime, except on weekends when you will
receive three meals a day. Please do not cook
in your host’s kitchen, although you may use
their refrigerator to store food and water.
Problem solving: Should you feel unhappy
with your homestay, please try to discuss any
problems with your hosts. You may suffer from
“culture shock” because the Costa Ricans may
do things differently from what you are used
to at home. However, if you have any serious
problems and are still unhappy after the first
week, you should speak to the Adminstrative
Coordinator who can give you advice, answer
your questions and if necessary may be able to
find another homestay for you.
Changing homestays: Should you wish to
change your accommodation in any way dur-
ing the course you must give EF staff seven
days notice, if possible. If you do not respect
this notice period, you may be subject to a
penalty fee.
Student Residence
As an alternative to staying with a homestay,
EF offers the option of residence accom-
modation, located in the same building as
the school. Residence accommodation is in
shared bedrooms. All rooms have AC, TV,
shared bathrooms and access to kitchen facili-
ties. Single rooms are available at a supple-
mentary price.
Meals in residence: Accommodation in the
residence is self-catering and each student
apartment has an equipped kitchen that is
shared between four students.
Laundry: There are laundry facilities at the
school which cost $1 per kilo.
General advice for residence living: As a typi-
cal Student Residence, it cannot be compared
to a hotel, so please do not expect daily maid
service and other conveniences that only a ho-
tel can offer. The big advantage is that you stay
on the school premises, and are surrounded
by other interesting international students. We
therefore request that you behave respectfully
towards others and avoid making unnecessary
noise after 11 p.m.
Swimming pool: There is a pool to enjoy,
which closes at 8 pm each night.
EF ID cards: For your own safety we do not
allow guests in the school. All students must
carry EF IDs and show these to the security
guard upon entrance to the school.
Onsite staff: There will be a Residence Advisor
(RA) living at the residence to whom you can
turn if you have any questions or concerns
during your stay.
Room configuration and amenities: Generally
you will share a twin room with one student
of another nationality. Your room will contain
a bed, closet, desk and chair and a lockable
drawer. All rooms have bathrooms shared by
four people.
Linens: Bed linens are provided. No towels are
provided so please bring your own.
Cleaning service: Your rooms will be cleaned
regularly, but you are expected to keep your
rooms clean and tidy.
Sanitary issues: Do not throw paper and other
products in the toilet. Instead use the waste
bins provided. These will be emptied twice daily.
6 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Key and damage deposit: You will be responsible
for any damages caused by you, or for the loss of
keys.
Incoming calls: Family and friends can call you on
the school phone and leave a message. There is a
student phone for outgoing calls.
Post: If you need documents or parcels sent to
you, they should be sent to:
EF Escuela Internacional de Español
Apartado de Correos 86-5159
Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Extremely important parcels (credit cards, phones,
iPods, cameras) are better sent by DHL, UPS or
Fed Ex.
Protect your belongings: If you leave valuables in
your room lock them in the drawer provided or in
your suitcase. You are responsible for your own
belongings.
Meals: No meals are provided for students living
in the residence except for the first lunch upon ar-
rival. There are kitchens for self-catering purposes.
The kitchens need to be kept clean daily by the
students in the residence.
8. Money MattersCurrency
The currency of Costa Rica is Colones, but most
places accept dollars including taxis. The ap-
proximate exchange rate is $1.00 is equivalent to
500 Colones.
Spending money
We recommend that you bring approximately
$200 in cash for expenses upon arrival and the
rest of your spending money in traveller’s cheques.
We recommend that you take between $75 and
$150 per week, excluding excursions, depending
on how much travelling, shopping and eating in
restaurants you plan to do during your visit to the
Tamarindo area. Don’t forget that you need $200
in cash or traveller’s cheques, $100 for your school
deposit and another $100 for your book fee.
You will also need to take money for learning mate-
rials used in class and for any language proficiency
exams you plan to take.
Credit cards and ATM
There are many ATMs in Costa Rica and all issue
both currencies ($ and Colones) and take most
credit cards. We however recommend that you use
Visa or Master Cards. It is advisable to not carry
too much cash around with you – remember there
are thieves in all countries! We cannot accept pay-
ment with credit cards in the school.
Banking
You can exchange money in most banks and cash
traveller’s cheques, but we cannot do this in the
school. We will however take traveller’s cheques for
payment of activities and school deposits.
Wiring Money
Wiring money to Costa Rica is possible with West-
ern Union, but you may have to travel up to one
hour to Liberia to pick it up. It is therefore advisable
to bring a little extra money in traveller’s cheques
instead.
9. Telephones, fax & InternetTelephone
All long distance calls must be collect calls, charged
to the person you are calling, or charged to a prepaid
telephone card.
Fax
All EF schools use fax machines to conduct busi-
ness. You can send and receive faxes from this
machine for a small fee, although you are encour-
aged to limit the use.
Internet
The school is equipped with Wi-Fi wireless Internet.
Students are highly encouraged to bring their
personal laptop computers for email and Internet
use on the wireless network. There is also a com-
puter lab that is open for classes and for checking
personal email.
10. Health Care & InsuranceWe recommend very strongly that you take out a
comprehensive travel and health insurance policy
before leaving for Costa Rica. An insurance policy
specially geared to cover you in case of illness
while away from home is available with EF.
The EF staff can recommend nearby hospitals and
doctors offices if you need medical attention. For
non-emergencies, you will need to pay immediately
in cash or by credit card for any medical service;
you will be reimbursed later by your insurance
company. If you need medical attention, please ask
the EF staff for assistance.
No specific immunisation is necessary for Costa
Rica. We do recommend the use of insect repellent
while you are here, as there have been some cases
of Dengue Fever however, there are no cases of
Malaria.Tamarindo has several pharmacies where
you can buy medicine and personal hygiene
products.
Erika Travel Insurance
Because security is EF’s number one priority, we
have negotiated a comprehensive tailor-made
travel insurance package for EF students with Erika
Travel Insurance, an international insurance expert.
The policy protects you against expenses incurred
through accident or illness, and provides coverage
for loss or theft of baggage and personal effects. It
also provides coverage against interruption of your
EF program due to illness as well as liability and
legal expenses.
The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika
Travel Insurance questions and claims. When you
are sick or injured the last thing you want to do is
deal with such issues. Let us help you!
11. Activities & ExcursionsExtracurricular activities contribute greatly to your so-
cial and academic success. They not only help you
to relax after a day studying, they also provide you
with an opportunity to meet and make friends from
other classes, other countries and other cultures.
Your school’s activities and trips give you the op-
portunity to apply your life skills, practice Spanish in
real situations and familiarize yourself with the Costa
Rican culture.
The Activity Coordinator can help you plan your
free time by organising a variety of EF events and
excursions.
Many activities in or around the school are free,
such as sports tournaments, holiday parties,
dances, pool parties and club activities. The cost
for excursions beyond EF depend upon the time of
year and the number of students that participate.
Our schedule of activities and exact prices, as well
as cut off dates for signing up for activities, will be
posted weekly around the school.
Day Excursions
Try a new sport or practice one you already know
while seeing another side of this outdoor paradise.
Snorkelling, kayaking, surfing, quad bike riding,
and horse back riding are just a few of the sporty
7 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
day excursions we offer. If you want a little
jungle excitement, you can go for a canopy
ride and experience the tropical jungle from the
tall tree tops along a canopy cable system.
Examples
❚ The average cost for sites around Tamarindo
such as kayaking and horse back riding is $30.
❚ Longer day trips such as the national park
Rincon de la Vieja where you can enjoy
canopy rides, climbing, and tubing plus
various sporting events such as deep-sea
fishing, sailing and diving will cost about
$65 - $120.
Weekend Excursions
Group weekend excursions take you beyond
Tamarindo to see beautiful untouched nature
and for a little or a lot of adventure you can
travel to Arenal Volcano or Monte Verde rain
forest or a number of other places.
Weekend excursion examples
The costs of weekend excursions vary greatly
depending on the trip, the season, and the
number of students.
❚ A two day trip to Arenal Volcano is $210
while a two day trip to Monte Verde is $180.
❚ Costs for longer distance trips can be
discussed upon your arrival, such as trips to
Nicaragua.
All EF weekend excursions include trans-
portation, accommodation, and admission
fees. Although some trips may include some
meals, you should expect to pay for your own
meals when travelling with EF. In addition to
our programme of excursions, we are more
than happy to help individual students or small
groups plan their time and activities to make
the most of their trips to other parts of Costa
Rica or to neighbouring countries.
Please Note: Students intending to travel
outside of Costa Rica, whether on an EF ex-
cursion or independently, should obtain tourist
visas when necessary before travelling.
Social and Cultural Events
The possibilities are endless, but some
examples include: parties, barbecues, salsa
lessons, work outs at the gym, movie nights,
club activities with the staff, international days,
and holiday festivals.
Sports
Sports available are surfing, beach volleyball,
pool, tennis, football, snorkelling, swimming
and more. Plus, you are free to use any of the
athletic and games equipment available at the
EF Activities Office. Stop by the office during
opening hours or ask the RA on duty. You will
be asked to leave your ID card so we can keep
track of what you have borrowed.
At the EF school:
❚ outdoor swimming pool
❚ beach sports such as frisbee, running, beach
soccer, volleyball and surfing
❚ other activities in the area (most charge an
access fee.)
Five minutes from the school:
❚ Fitness clubs
❚ 9-hole public golf with Par 3 course and
driving range
❚ Tennis
❚ Soccer field (free)
❚ Sailing
❚ Snorkelling
❚ Scuba diving
❚ Jet-skiing (available 15 minutes from school
by taxi)
12. TransportationPublic transportation
Public bus services are also very cheap. They
run everywhere with fixed timetables but infre-
quently; sometimes they are very crowded. To
San Jose by bus, a five hour journey, the cost
is only $5.
There is a relatively cheap taxi service in Costa
Rica which is reliable and safe. The most you
will pay is around $8 to your homestay resi-
dence, 15 minutes away.
Car rentals
Some students choose to rent a car on week-
ends for private excursions. You can hire a car
very easily in Tamarindos, prices vary between
$40-$75 a day. All agencies require a valid
driver’s license, a credit card and will usually
require you to be 21 or over. EF recommends
that anyone renting a car (even for short trips)
purchase full insurance coverage. The only
person authorised to drive the car is the one
whose name is on the contract. Do not rent
cars for your friends!
Flights
The Tamarindo area is serviced by The Daniel
Oduber International Airport of Liberia, located
one hour from the school. There is also The
Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose which
serves the whole country and is five hours from
Tamarindo. The Administration Coordinator is
available to help you change a ticket pur-
chased through EF as well as to help with any
other flight arrangements.
13. ExpectationsExpectations are a normal part of a new expe-
rience. Remember that many of your expecta-
tions may have been formed by the unreal
world of TV and movies. Arrive at your course
centre with an open mind!
What you can expect from EF:
❚ Supportive staff available for guidance and
encouragement.
❚ A programme that combines language, spe-
cial interest and culture-oriented classes.
❚ A full programme of local activities and excur-
8 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
sions at special EF rates.
❚ Accommodation in a homestay.
❚ All designated meals.
❚ EF Academic Year Abroad Diploma for
Academic Year Abroad students with 80%
attendance per term and good academic
standing and academic records
❚ EF Course Certificate for International Lan-
guage Students with 80% attendance and
good academic standing.
❚ Preparation classes and/or materials for ap-
propriate standardised language exams
What EF expects of you:
❚ To develop a greater understanding of the
world around you.
❚ To attend at least 80% of all classes and to
do your best in class at all times.
❚ To be respectful of your homestay hosts,
your classmates, your teachers, and your
community.
❚ To keep your room and shared areas clean.
❚ To speak Spanish at all times.
❚ To abide by all laws, rules, and regulations of
your host country and school.
❚ As a representative of your country, com-
munity and school, the highest standards of
responsibility and behaviour are expected
What you can expect from your homestay hosts:
❚ A comfortable, clean place to live.
❚ Prepared meals or accessibility to food to
prepare yourself according to the meal plan.
❚ Access to the school in approximately one
hour by public transportation. All transporta-
tion costs are your responsibility.
14. Costa Rican culture & living tipsImmigration and visas
You will need a valid passport to enter Costa
Rica. In addition, you may need a visa depend-
ing upon the county you are from or the length
of your stay. Please check with the Costa
Rican Embassy in your country.
❚ The following countries DO NOT need a
tourist visa if the student is here for 90 days
or less: Brazil, Canada, Croatia, Kazakhstan,
Russia, Republic of Slovakia, Switzerland,
Turkey, countries within the European Union,
and USA.
❚ The following countries DO need tourist
visas which can be obtained very quickly by
contacting the Consulate or the Costa Rican
Embassy: Bosnia, Hong Kong, Indonesia,
Macedonia, Mongolia and Thailand
❚ If your country is not mentioned in the lists
above, please contact the Costa Rican
embassy or consulate in your country for
information.
Students can apply for a student visa before
their departure at their local Costa Rican
embassy. At the moment, language courses
are not valid for student status in Costa Rica,
but the filed application does allow you to stay
in the country. Students need to present a
Birth certificate and a Delinquency certificate,
among other things, to the embassy. Students
will also have to present themselves at the
Costa Rican Immigration office in San José
every three months.
Students staying more than 90 days may also
participate in the school’s trips to Nicaragua,
Colombia or Panama every three months in
order to get a new visa. These very popular
trips are normally over three days in length and
cost approximately $200.
Alcohol
The legal age for drinking in Costa Rica is
18. No alcohol is allowed on the EF campus
including the residence, regardless of age.
Smoking
Smoking is considered more and more a
health hazard to those who smoke and those
around them. Smoking is not allowed inside
the EF buildings or in most homestays.
Appliances
Electric outlets in Costa Rica provide a current
at 110 volts. This is the same as in North and
South America. Since many other countries
operate with a voltage of 220 (Europe for
example), you might need an transformer to
operate non-American appliances. You might
also need an adaptor to change the shape of
the plug which is either two flat prongs or three
prongs for large appliances.
Tipping
There is a service charge of 10% included in
most restaurants bills. People who work in the
hospitality industry in Costa Rica rely on tips
from foreigners more so than in many other
countries. You are therefore expected to add
an additional $2 or $3 in restaurants and up to
between $5 and $10 for a tour.
Sales Tax
Expect to pay 13% sales tax on your pur-
chases which is normally already included in
the price in most stores but not in restaurants.
Recommended reading
❚ Lonely Planet Costa Rica – Great student
travel guide for where to go, how to get
around, where to stay and what to eat.
❚ Frommer’s Costa Rica 2005 Elliot Greenspan
(Frommers) – Great travel guide for where to
go, how to get around and where to stay.
❚ Culture Shock! Costa Rica by Clare Waller-
stein (Graphic Arts Centre Pub) – Information
on Costa Rican character and culture.
15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of
students who have come together to learn
Spanish. It is also a multi-cultural group of
young adults who are eager to share their
own culture and learn the culture of their host
country and fellow classmates.
One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts,
traditions and practices of a specific community
or population. Our culture affects how we view
ourselves, how we relate to others and what we
value as important in life. We are often unaware
of how much our culture affects our lives.
You may have already had some exposure to
the new culture you are about to experience.
You may have seen television shows, read
books, or studied in school about Costa Rica.
While some parts of this culture may already
seem familiar to you, experiencing a new
culture first-hand will prove exciting. You will be
meeting students from all over the world who,
like you, are looking forward to spending a year
learning and living a language, both inside and
outside the classroom.
As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience
periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are
uncomfortable. Culture shock is what some-
times happens when we try to meet challenges
of our new culture by using the values, beliefs,
and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to
a new culture, we must learn that cultural differ-
9 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
ences are merely different - not right or wrong.
It is a good idea to bring traditional objects from
your culture to share with other students and
your host to teach them about your country.
Tips on coping with change
Remember that change does not come with-
out some effort! We humans need a certain
amount of stress to motivate us to learn new
ways of being. Learning always involves some
form of change. You should try the following:
❚ While you might be tempted to surround
yourself with things that are familiar to you, try
not to isolate yourself by being only with others
from your home country. Keep reaching out to
your host, roommates and other students.
❚ Put off making major decisions such as an
accommodation change, until you feel more
“at home” with the culture in general.
❚ Talk to us about your worries or problems.
EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to
know about any problem you may have so
that we can help you.
❚ Set goals, no matter how big or small, and
accomplish them! You will feel good about
yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the
negative feelings associated with culture
shock. For example, set a goal that you will
speak Spanish at all times.
❚ Remind yourself that you came to this
country to experience a new culture, to meet
others and to explore your new surroundings.
Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on
the days before leaving your home country
when you were excited about your new ad-
venture. Try to refocus this former excitement
towards your experience.
Keeping a journal
One way to keep track of emotions and
changes that take place over the year is to
keep a journal. By recording your experiences
and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able
to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will
have a record of your academic and personal
progress to look back on in days and years to
come. Be sure to note changes in:
❚ Language skills
❚ School performance and involvement
❚ Campus/host adjustment
❚ Individual learning and growth
Keeping a journal will help to remind you that
culture shock is truly a temporary phase
of adjustment.
Bring pictures and items from home
If you have room in your suitcases for some
music, a costume, pictures, or some typi-
cal crafts, it would be good to show other
students, as well as to decorate your room
to make it seem like home. We have seen
costumes and drums from Korea, music from
Austria and traditional dress from France.
Please bring pictures of your friends, family
and surrounding area.
Important telephone numbers
16. EF School CalendarAcademic Year Schedule
The Academic Year is divided into three terms.
(See the applicable start date below for your
program’s specific term and break schedule).
January 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan
Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar
Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar
Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun
Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012
Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug
Departure: 18 Aug 2012
April 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr
Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun
Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep
Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012
Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov
Departure: 1 Dec 2012
June 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 8 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 1: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep
Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 2: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec
Semester Departure: 17 Nov 2012
Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan
Term 3: (Year) Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Feb
Departure: 9 Feb 2013
September 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec
Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan
Term 2: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar
Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013
Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar
Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May
Departure: 1 June 2013
January 2013
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan
Term 1: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar
Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar
Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun
Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013
Holiday: Sat 8 Jun - Sun 16 Jun
Term 3: (Year) Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug
Departure: 17 Aug 2013
Please note: there will be no classes on
public holidays.
School holidays
EF International Language Center in Costa
Rica recognizes the following public holidays
when there will be no classes. If your arrival
falls on one of these dates, please check with
the school staff upon your arrival for an exact
orientation schedule.
2012
1 January – New Year’s Day
5 & 6 April – Easter
11 April – Juan Santamaría Day
1 May – Labor Day
25 July – Guanacaste Day
15 August – Mother’s Day
15 September – Independence Day
25 December – Christmas Day
2013
1 January – New Year’s Day
28 & 29 April – Easter
11 April – Juan Santamaría Day
1 May – Labor Day
25 July – Guanacaste Day
15 August – Mother’s Day
15 September – Independence Day
25 December – Christmas Day
17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where neces-
sary) It’s a good idea to make copies of
these and pack them in your suitcase
just in case. You don’t need to carry your
passport with you while you are in Costa
Rica but you must keep it and your other
documents in a safe place while you are in
the country.
■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student
identification cards, travel cards and other
possible documents
■ Flight ticket
■ Luggage correctly labeled
■ EF Confirmation letter & other
EF documents
■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,
especially the Health Certificate
■ Medical and travel insurance documents
■ Basic medical supplies, any medication
you take regularly and a spare pair of con-
tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.
■ An International Driving License if you are
planning on renting a car.
■ Local currency for first week and for any
learning materials that are not included in
the cost of the course.
■ Money in the form of an ATM card
(Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards
and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring
large amounts of cash in any currency!).
■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-
ances you plan to bring with you.
■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.
■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.
■ Personal sports equipment.
■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.
■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.
Homestay host’s or student residence name:
________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence address:
________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):
________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number:
________________________________________
EF School telephone number:
+(506) 2 653 2095________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number:
+506 8337 3531________________________________________
Important telephone numbers
C
hec
klis
t
16. EF school calendar & holidaysSchool holidays
EF International Language Center in Costa
Rica recognizes the following public holidays
when there will be no classes. If your arrival
falls on one of these dates, please check with
the school staff upon your arrival for an exact
orientation schedule.
2012
1 January – New Year’s Day
5 & 6 April – Easter
11 April – Juan Santamaría Day
1 May – Labor Day
25 July – Guanacaste Day
15 August – Mother’s Day
15 September – Independence Day
25 December – Christmas Day
2013
1 January – New Year’s Day
28 & 29 April – Easter
11 April – Juan Santamaría Day
1 May – Labor Day
25 July – Guanacaste Day
15 August – Mother’s Day
15 September – Independence Day
25 December – Christmas Day
17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where neces-
sary) It’s a good idea to make copies of
these and pack them in your suitcase
just in case. You don’t need to carry your
passport with you while you are in Costa
Rica but you must keep it and your other
documents in a safe place while you are in
the country.
■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student
identification cards, travel cards and other
possible documents
■ Flight ticket
■ Luggage correctly labeled
■ EF Confirmation letter & other
EF documents
■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,
especially the Health Certificate
■ Medical and travel insurance documents
■ Basic medical supplies, any medication
you take regularly and a spare pair of con-
tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.
■ An International Driving License if you are
planning on renting a car.
■ Local currency for first week and for any
learning materials that are not included in
the cost of the course.
■ Money in the form of an ATM card
(Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards
and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring
large amounts of cash in any currency!).
■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-
ances you plan to bring with you.
■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.
■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.
■ Personal sports equipment.
■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.
■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.
Homestay host’s or student residence name:
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence address:
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):
_________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number:
_________________________________________
EF School telephone number:
+(506) 2 653 2095_________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number:
+506 8337 3531_________________________________________
Additional notes or numbers:
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence address
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s)
_________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number
_________________________________________
EF School telephone number
_________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number
_________________________________________