WHAT WE LIKE - Key features of this program Located on the Pacific coast this is one of the largest coastal communities, lots of quaint cafes, bars with panoramic views over the ocean. The national park & beach are within 10 minutes bus trip from the school (2 miles) which sits on a hill offerring spectacular views over the Pacific ocean.

Enjoy a Spanish language course in Costa Rica at our language school in the town of Manual Antonio.

Located in the province of Puntarenas, on the pacific coast of Costa Rica, is the town of Quepos which is one of the largest coastal communities and once a thriving fishing port. Quepos is located only 7 kms away from the Manuel Antonio National Park, our school is situated nearby and ideal for those wishing to explore the national park.

One of the most popular parks in the country, Manuel Antonio contains a charming combination of rain forest, beaches and coral reefs. Its beaches are some of the most beautiful in the country, lined with lush forest, and offers excellent snorkeling & some surfing.

The forest is home to sloths, iguanas, the rare and adorable squirrel monkeys and millions of colorful little crabs. The trail that winds around Punta Catedral affords some spectacular views, the park is also wonderful for short walks or full-day hikes.

Manuel Antonio also offers some of the best beaches on Costa Rica´s Pacific coast for swimming and snorkeling. The southern facing beach, Playa Manuel Antonio, is a picturesque half mile long, white sand crescent bisecting deep green foliage to one side and a private, secluded cove to the other. It offers many cozy bars & cafes, a perfect place to watch the sunset!

More things to see & do whilst in Costa Rica

>> Manuel Antonio National Park Report

SCHOOL FACILITIES 12 classrooms and classes can take place outside in a tropical setting, capacity 40 students, several indoor and outdoor social area's including a internet lounge.

The school is located just off the main road between Quepos & the National Park, over looking the Pacific Ocean.

Our school building is perched on the side of a hill, surrounded by lush vegetarian and offers spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding areas. The building has large outdoor terraces (some covered), where classes take place, the indoor classrooms are large and airey.

Both the town of Quepos, great beaches & Manuel Antonio National Park are only 10 minutes by public bus.

THE BASICS Course for all language levels - courses start every Monday - use of course materials - each student will be expected to take a short placement test on the first Monday morning - lessons can take place in the mornings 8 -12 or in the afternoon 1-5 each day - min age 18 - Max. 8 students per class - unlimited course length (minimum program 2 weeks) - to allow for more Note: Classes normally consist of two or three students. It is rare that a class size reaches the maximum of eight students. In the event that there is no group at the student's same level, we provide private tutoring for 3 hours per day for the same price as the group program.

Standard: (20 lessons per week)

Combined: (20 lessons per week + 2 private daily)
Private instruction takes place from 1:15 to 3:15 in the afternoon

The school methodology is based on the modern communicative approach emphasizing conversation; however, we are flexible and recognize each student's particular learning needs.

Students will learn the language by using it in practical situations, facilitating their ability to think in Spanish. The classes are well organized and follow daily lesson plans. All teachers plan their day's classes in advance, in order to incorporate each student's particular needs.

Students normally arrange activities together or with the help of the school. Manuel Antonio national park offers a huge variety of things to do, hiking, explore on foot or horseback, visit the hot springs. The trails offer visitors the chance to walk a through tropical rain forest, watch for the amazing wildlife and Bird watching is a must.

Merengue and Salsa dance lessons are offered once a week. There are visits to museums, presentations of movies and other cultural activities that change every week. Students can also participate in cooking classes. Once a month, students bring typical dishes from their country to share.

Other activities available include Turtle watching, surfing, snorkeling and diving, deep-sea fishing, white water rafting, and canopy riding in the tops of the trees, a fun experience. This school is ideal for the active student who enjoys nature, the beach and meeting new international travelers.

At the weekend many students can arrange to take optional excursions to local cities or local places of interest. The country boasts natural beauty, towering and fiery volcanoes, pristine beaches, raging rivers, virgin rain forests, abundant wildlife, warm and hospitable people and this beautiful country is small enough to be covered in a short period of time.

Recommended tours:

> Plan a group language program at this location! > GSA Advantage for US Government & Military personnel > Study & Live with your own private language teacher > Volunteer program - Sea Turtle Rescue Project, North > Volunteer program - Sea Turtle Rescue Project, South > 3 cities in 3 months - Heredia/Samara Beach/Monteverde > Spanish programs for children & teens

Host Family: (private room - 2 meals daily)

NOTE:It is recommended that participants arrive in San José on or before the Saturday prior to the start of classes, stay the first night in San José, and travel the following day to Manuel Antonio. We can arrange for your stay in San José, either with a host family or in a hotel.

Living with a host family is probably the best and most effective way to become fully immersed into the language and culture of your chosen country. All families are chosen after a careful selection procedure and are visited regularly by the school to ensure that high living standards are maintained.

Most families are located in Quepos, the neighboring town (2.5 miles) which is about a 10-15 minute ride from the school by local bus.

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