7/9/2015
We are all here safe and sound, bags and all!
We have had a great day here at Eco playa. We got to know each other by playing the games People to People and Rock, Paper, Scissors Cheerleading and learned what GLA is about. We also took a ride to La Cruz to check out the town and try some local snacks. This session is filled with lots of energy and laughs.
This is going to be a great week and a half!
The Beachside Service Adventure Team 🙂
P.S. Here’s an awesome photo of the group!
7/11/2015
Today we went to our service sites for the first time. We have the task of refurbishing a playground. We started out by washing and sanding it. As we slowly made progress,, we also had the chance to play with the local children. We played endless rounds of “duck, duck, tiger.” I can’t wait to go back!
Linn Ha
After the car ride for about 45 min, we arrived at a local school next to a medical center. We were divided into two. One group picked up big rocks and one group dug holes in order to build fences. During water breaks we also played soccer with the local kids.
Shirly
The ride to get to the service site was about 45 min. We started with painting tires all different colors to make the daycare more colorful and welcoming. Some of us painted flowers and clouds while some of us dug holes to put the tires in. After doing that we played with all the children. They are about 2-5 years old and they are adorable. Even though it’s hard to understand each other, we still had a lot of fun playing tag on the playground.
Liz Kalil
Today after a short ride over to an elementary school in La Cruz where Alex and his crew set to work mixing and layering concrete and wire grids. After smoothing out the concrete and making sure everything was contained in the individual squares, the group did it all over again.
Mary Teixeira
7/12/2015
Today we started off the morning at 5:00 AM by getting ready and heading to breakfast. Because it was adventure day, we were equipped with bathing suits, sandals, and clothes to hike. First, we went on a hike to Pilas where we saw volcanic activity. After, we went down to the hot springs and spent time relaxing and covering ourselves in healing mud. It was fun to explore nature, play in the river, and enjoy the company of other students. We later took a trip to El Coco where we shopped for souvenirs, ate ice cream, and experienced the tourist sights Costa Rica has to offer. Lastly, we drove back into La Cruz. Some of the local people set up an artisan and farmers market, so we stopped by to support them in their financial endeavors. We had a great time dancing with the locals and getting to know them better. Our first adventure day was super exciting and very fun!
– Josie Pearce
7/12/2015
Today was our second adventure day at Guachepelin. After our two our long bus rides, we started our day off with horseback riding. After getting settled on our horses, we quickly learned how to maneuver and control them for a fun and safe ride. During our ride we walked on a trail lading us through a forest. Next, we got our bathing suits on and tube down many rapids. Although we got soaked, we had a great time and then made our way to a lunch buffet to regain our energy for zip lining. We then geared up and learned simple instructions on the proper positions for zip lining. There were…..different courses ranging from slow, fast, upside down, rock climbing, and even a Tarzan Swing. Day 5 was a great day and a good way to explore the adventure parts of Costa Rica.
– Carolina Maamari
