Costa Rica PDF

www.globalcrossroad.
com
Global Crossroad
Over 18,000 happy volunteers since 2003
Volunteer in Costa Rica

Information Booklet
Truly most affordable - starts at $105

Pay fee directly to host families and projects
Life changing program focus on safety and cultural immersion
Trusted by thousand of volunteers since 2003
About us
Global Crossroad, LLC is one of the worlds fastest
growing international volunteer vacation organizations. Its ever-expanding programs offer a variety of
volunteer and travel options in 18 different countries throughout Asia, Africa and Latin America:
Volunteer Abroad, Tours and Travel Abroad,
Internships Abroad, Mini-Ventures, Group Excursions, Summer Escapes and Paid Teaching opportunities. We registered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
(U.S.) in 2003. In 2006, we moved to Dallas, Texas.
More than 10,000 world-travelers/volunteers have
participated in Global Crossroads programs. Our
philosophy involves more than simply placing a
volunteer in a grassroots project. We offer a variety
of programs to meet the needs of our customers:
personalized placements, cross-cultural immersion
experiences, travel and adventure options, in-country travel arrangements, time allowed for free-time
exploration and other services as per the specific
needs of each participant.
Mission
Global Crossroad conducts successful volunteer
abroad programs in 18 countries throughout Asia,
Africa and Latin America. The foundation of our
success lies in our dedication, vision and working
philosophies. Global Crossroads focus on grassroots projects, cultural immersion and travel learning opportunities reflects the unique, alternative approach that we have adopted to garner memorable
experiences for our volunteers.
Volunteer in Costa Rica
Discover our Exciting Costa Rica Volunteer Programs A Life-Changing Way to Serve!
With Global Crossroads Volunteer in Costa Rica

program, you can follow your interests, from birdwatching to exotic rafting and other diverse activities, while you positively impact the lives of deserving Costa Ricans, just by being yourself.
Whether your free time includes golf, ecological
hikes or surveying fierce rivers, it will be immensely
more enjoyable when combined with the use of
your time, skills and energy to get social programs
up and running. Participation in the Volunteer in
Costa Rica program delivers the best of both worlds,
from exploring a secure, picturesque tropical paradise to implementing local-level projects that can
revolutionize lives.
Unique opportunities to help needy children, teach
conservation techniques and much more await you
in beautiful Costa Rica. Youll explore Costa Ricas
wonders, and expand a small childs world by imparting hope and knowledge.
Get in touch with us now. Dont put off this rare
chance for the most fulfilling vacation of a lifetime!
Volunteer Program in Costa Rica

Atenas
Teaching English in Costa Rica
Work in orphanage
Children At-Risk Project
Medical Volunteer in Costa Rica Project
Conservation Work in Costa Rica
Organic and Sustainable Farming Project
San Miguel de Sarapiqui
Teaching English in Costa Rica
Sustainable and Organic Farming
Pacific and Caribbean Coasts
Turtle Conservation
www.globalcrossroad.com
Dates and Prices

All projects (Volunteer, Language Studies & Cultural Immersion and travel options) begin on the 1st and 3rd Mondays
of each month).
Global Crossroad is committed to offering quality volunteer abroad programs, yet we keep price as a focus.
We strive to keep costs low in order to share these savings with our volunteers. The humanitarian side of the
business is our passion and we are dedicated to perpetuating low-cost programs that enable as many volunteers as possible to cross borders and embrace the neediest souls of humanity.
Global Crossroads application fee: US $299. In addition to the application fee, volunteers are required to pay
weekly program fee:
Duration
1 Week
2 Wks
3 Wks
4 Wks
5 Wks
6 Wks
7 Wks
8 Wks
9 Wks
10 Wks
11 Wks
12 Wks
Puntarenas
$105
$225
$345
$465
$585
$705
$825
$945
$1,065
$1,185
$1,305
$1,425
Atenas
$220
$340
$460
$580
$750
$870
$990
$1,110
$1,280
$1,400
$1,520
$1,640
Sea Turtle
Pacuare
$345
$590
$835
$1,080
$1,325
$1,570
$1,815
$2,060
$2,305
$2,550
$2,795
$3,040
Turtle/Osa
Peninsula
$450
$800
$1,150
$1,500
$1,850
$2,200
$2,550
$2,900
$3,250
$3,600
$3,950
$4,300
* Airport Pickup and Transfer (Atenas-2 hours) $85

* Airport Pickup and Transfer (Puntarenas-4 hours) $110
* Comprehensive Traveler Insurance $3.49/day
* Spanish Lesson (10hrs per week, M-F) $70/Week
What Does Program Fee Cover:
Global Crossroad is proud to be able to provide all the various services offered by our competitors, but at a
fraction of their prices (up to 70% less). Taking much satisfaction in our volunteers enjoying the comprehensive services, which we presently provide, we remain devoted to maintaining both the quality and integrity
of our volunteers abroad experience through our constantly evolving programs. Below is a brief summary of
the services offered by Global Crossroad:

Meals

Accommodations

Thoroughly Researched and Personalized Projects

Airport Reception/Pickup

In-country Transportation

Pre-Departure Information

Other Services

Emergency Support

US $100 Discount

Certificate of Appreciation/Completion

Fundraising Ideas
Whats not included

Airfare

Passport/Visa

Airport Return/Drop off

Airport Tax

Daily Transportation

Bottled Water/Soft Drinks

Personal Expenses

Entry Fees
Language and Cultural Immersion Program

Volunteer and Learn Spanish in Costa Rica and improve your overall experience in Costa Rica!
When you can communicate with those around you and understand the locals world perspective, your
volunteer in Costa Rica will deepen and become more rewarding for everyone involved. Global Crossroads
Spanish course in Costa Rica is convenient and inexpensive. These classes are exclusive to those participating in Global Crossroads volunteer in Costa Rica program. We have partnered with a highly reputable
Spanish school that employs qualified and experienced Spanish teachers and offers the most intensive and
effective Spanish courses in Costa Rica.
We make it simple to learn Spanish in Costa Rica while you volunteer. During our Language Studies program,
volunteers can simultaneously work at their volunteer project and study Spanish. For example, volunteers
can study Spanish before lunch, then spend the afternoon/evening involved in their volunteer activities.
Alternatively, volunteers can study in the afternoon, following their days activities. The language school is
close to most of our projects, so it is possible for volunteers to design a personal schedule. Global Crossroad
invites you to improve your Costa Rica experience by learning or improving your Spanish.
Accommodations/Meals/Field Support
While volunteering in Costa Rica, Global Crossroads weekly fees include
management of volunteers meal plans and accommodations throughout projects and travel options. Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and
dinner) will be provided and will consist of local ingredients and feature
traditional cuisine choices for Costa Rica. Our meal program can accommodate vegetarian needs; however, we are not able to provide for other
dietary restrictions. Food and drinks outside of mealtimes are the volunteers responsibility. In most cases, there are restaurants and markets
nearby the homes in which our volunteers stay.
In our projects, we normally place our volunteers with a host family. Volunteers usually have a single bedroom, but may occasionally share a room with another volunteer of the same gender. Our host families
are chosen carefully and are esteemed community members, who have experience in the realm of hosting
international travelers. Host family residences are in comfortable, clean and safe neighborhoods and rooms
are simply furnished and tidy. Staying with a host family can offer the support system a volunteer will crave
during their program and it is a great way to learn about a host countrys culture and customs. Most volunteers who have stayed with a host family note that their stay truly enriched their entire experience abroad.
A unique and important part of Global Crossroads successful volunteer abroad programs is our volunteer
support in-country. We put safety and comfort first as we deliver enriching and consistent experiences for
our international travelers. Our support is multi-faceted while volunteers are in Costa Rica and our staff is in
contact with our volunteers on a regular basis either with face-to-face visits or via phone/email. Key support
comes from our country coordinator and in-country field staff. These individuals are employed by our company and committed to ensuring your experience the best it can be. Your chosen project staff and host family offers support as well, and they are familiar with working with international volunteers and accustomed
to answering questions and providing guidance. Volunteers also have access to our country coordinators
mobile number for emergencies. With longer assignments, our field staff visits regularly (every 2-4 weeks) to
ensure the experience is meeting your expectations. Sometimes an assignment may be too far to visit physically, so staff members will touch-base via phone/email. You are also welcome to stop in the offices at any
time. You are never alone.
Volunteer in Costa Rica: Project Locations and Free Time Options

The projects are located either in San Miguel de Sarapiqui
or Atenas. The town of San Miguel de Sarapiqui, where our
teaching project is located, is surrounded by rainforest and
lies at an altitude of over 1 thousand feet. There are many
things to do and see in the town including hiking, rafting
and bird watching. The town also has a farmers market every Friday where locals from nearby villages sell vegetables,
coffee and many other items produced locally. There are
also hot spring and gardens in and around San Miguel for
our volunteers to visit.
Atenas is located about 41 kilometers (25.5 miles) from San
Jose in the central Valley and sits at an elevation of 698 meters above sea level. It is a small town of about 5
thousand people and is popular with a lot of American expats, who stay there permanently. The temperature
in Atenas averages in the mid-70s year-round, but there will be few warmer nights and few evenings when it
might dip below the 60s. In the rainy season, late afternoons are wet but mornings are mostly clear.
From Atenas, the views of the surrounding coffee and sugarcane plantations as well as forested valleys are
very beautiful. There is a central park located at the heart of the town. The park is a perfect place to relax and
enjoy ice cream or coffee. Cafes and restaurants located within the park serve some of Costa Ricas delicious
cuisine including the toronjas rellenas (stuffed grapefruits), which are a popular local dessert. Nearby shops
and markets are very good places to purchase souvenirs such as handcrafted jewelery or traditional Costa
Rican clothing. Located just east of Atenas, volunteers can also visit La Garita. It is to home to Zoo Ave, a
wildlife rescue and breeding center, and also has a plant nursery nearby that sells exotic plants. On weekends, volunteers can travel to Pacific Coast or further away to visit National Parks and Caribbean Coast. A trip
to San Jose, the largest city, is also recommended.
Skills/Qualifications Needed
There are no specific qualifications needed to join volunteer most projects in Costa Rica project beyond a
preferred basic/intermediate fluency in Spanish. If you cannot speak Spanish, we recommend enrolling in
our Spanish Language Studies program. Volunteers need to have passion and love for children and be flexible and patient. To participate in medical volunteer in Costa Rica project you must have medical training.
Trained medical volunteers require certification or proof of experience in a medical field, such as a medical
student ID, EMT or paramedic certification, or nursing or physicians credentials. Volunteers teaching English
must be fluent in the language but not necessarily a native English speaker.
I enjoyed my entire stay at the orphanage. One of the most rewarding parts was to see the
kids excited to learn math. They kept me up late creating new games, but it was worth it to
see their schoolwork improved. - Corissa Goertzea
Teaching English
Global Crossroads volunteer opportunities to
teach English in Costa Rica offer many ways to
explore day-to-day Costa Rican life while helping
young students improve their Basic English or conversational skills. Work includes teaching English
(grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, speaking,
writing, listening, etc.) to students from pre-school
to high school for 2-4 hours per day. At these projects, volunteers work with and assist the fulltime
teacher. You will help teach regular English classes
and also tutor the children and help them with
their homework.
Program: Volunteer in Costa Rica

Project: Teaching English in Costa Rica
Start dates: 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month
Location: San Miguel de Sarapiqui, Atenas
Departure and End Point: San Jose International Airport
(Juan Santamaria)
Language Need: Fluency in English and basic/intermediate Spanish fluency
Accommodation and meals: Host Family and Costa Rican
meals three times daily
Activities: Teach English to elementary school children
Working hours: 20-35 hours per week
Role of Volunteer
While teaching English in Costa Rica, you will teach from 3 to 5 hours
each day, 5 days a week. In Costa Rica, each school has its own on
staff English teacher who assists our volunteers with teaching methods, offers advice on solving communication barriers and provides
suitable curricula for the classrooms. English teaching volunteers do
not have to be native English speakers. Volunteers interested in teaching other subjects like math, science
can also do so, but please let us know this before you start your project. The schools in Costa Rica are closed
during the holidays and exam periods. During these times, Global Crossroad will organize alternative tasks
for our volunteers, such as assisting in an orphanage.
Sustainable and Organic Farming

The farmers in Costa Rica have recently relied in
pesticides and other non-organic products to inProject: Sustainable and Organic Farming
crease their harvest and their livelihood. But as the
importance of organic and sustainable farming has
Location: San Miguel de Sarapiqui
increased, many farmers are switching back to their
(Juan Santamaria)
old farming techniques and learning newer organic
Language Need: Fluency in English and basic/intermedimethods also. Many farmers, however, face difficulty
ate Spanish fluency
doing this and they have simply forgotten their old
ways or some have never farmed organically. This
project allows volunteers to work with farmers to
learn the farming techniques and put them to practice. Our volunteers will learn as well as motivate the
farmers and also bring in newer farmers to organic farming.
Had a wonderful experience working with the orphanage and getting to see other parts of the
country. Loved learning about the people and culture. Overall, an unforgettable experience
-Adrienne Rumney
Role of Volunteer
Our volunteers will most work with coffee farmers in San Miguel de Sarapiqui. You will be involved in training, awareness campaigns and contribute in spreading the knowledge of organic and sustainable farming.
You will also join in to harvest the crop by picking coffee. There are research and other administration opportunities options available for volunteers to pursue.
Volunteer in an orphanage project

Poverty, abuse and alcoholism have left many
children in Costa Rica without families, depriving
Project: orphanage
them of the parental love and care they need and
deserve. Global Crossroads volunteer in orphanLocations: Atenas
age in Costa Rica project aspires to improve these
childrens life circumstances by providing caring
(Juan Santamaria)
Language Need: Basic/intermediate Spanish fluency
and nurturing volunteers to work and play with
them. The orphanages support and protect these
children, volunteer assistance helps keep these
Activities: Provide love and care to orphans & support
children off the street, and helps provide them
orphanage operations
with a happy and productive childhood. The projWorking hours: 25-35 hours per week
ects focus on getting these children off the street,
and providing them with shelter, food and education. Various ongoing educational, recreational and health
projects support these unfortunate children and reinforce positive choices to improve their lives.
Role of Volunteer
Orphanage volunteers teach English in the orphanage. Volunteers provide care for the children, helping
them with their homework, offer workshops, participate in playtime activities, etc. You may work with other
volunteers and/or assistants. Most orphanages house separate genders, though there are a few that support
both girls and boys. The children crave and deserve your love, care, attention and companionship; and thrive
because of volunteer interactions.
Extra-curricular activities may include organizing sports training and inter-school football (soccer) matches.
Volunteers also playing music and teach subjects such as mathematics, world affairs, personal hygiene and
nutrition. The possibilities are endless.
Children At-Risk Project

This is an after school program to assist children from very poor background. Global Crossroad collaborates
with grassroots programs to provide much needed assistance to the children that come from disadvantaged
families and attend schools that lack resources to give them good education. This setup generally ensures
the children from well-off families will always end up in better paid jobs while children from poor families
will never succeed. Most of these children also struggle in their school and if they are not provided proper
help and guidance, they can drop out of school and have no future. Our volunteers can do much to improve
and inspire these kids.
Role of Volunteer
Volunteers are needed to assist the children with
various activities so you can motivate them and
Project: Children at-risk
give them hope for a better future. Depending on
personal skills and interests, volunteers can teach
Locations: Atenas
English, music, mathematics, computer skills, assist
(Juan Santamaria)
in cooking and serving meals to the children, eduLanguage Need: Basic/intermediate Spanish fluency
cating the children in issues of personal hygiene/
sanitation, ensuring they complete their homework
simply spending quality time with these oftenActivities: Provide love and care to orphans & support
abandoned children makes a significantly positive
orphanage operations
impact. Another strongly rewarding contribution is
helping to reintegrate these children into society
laying the groundwork for them to be happy, well-adjusted and productive members of society.
Medical Volunteer in Costa Rica Project

Global Crossroads Costa Rica healthcare volunteer project provides volunteers an opportunity to work in
hospitals, clinics and with special projects to provide healthcare to disadvantaged and at-risk Costa Ricans.
Volunteers support doctors, nurses, therapists and other medical professionals in urban and rural settings.
Depending on your medical experience and Spanish fluency, you may be asked to assist with various procedures such as delivering babies, suturing wounds, and giving vaccinations. Some volunteers may help with
vaccinations and public health campaigns.
Role of Volunteer
As a volunteer in medical volunteer in Costa Rica
project, you will be placed in clinics/hospitals and assist with general check-ups and examinations of patients, as well as help with emergency patient triage
and possibly participate in home-visits in rural areas
to help with vaccinations and/or to care for patients
who have become immobilized. Depending on the
volunteers level of Spanish fluency and the expertise they demonstrate, the clinics will let you work as
independently as possible.
Various projects volunteers can choose to work include:
Work in a Private Laboratory dealing with tests for detection of diseases and infections
Work with Mentally disable
In retirement home you will require basic Spanish to volunteer in the home
Dental practice
Private Ambulance Service
Red Cross volunteers will also have opportunity to teach English to local staff and administer first aid
Public Daycare mostly with children and only 1-2 of work per day. You can combine this with other
project
Ministry Health projects include dengue project and recycling project
Conservation Work in Costa Rica

Are you passionate about nature conservation?
Do you want to experience unique Latin American
culture and learn Spanish? Volunteer in Global
Crossroads conservation project in Costa Rica and
return with unforgettable memories.

Project: Conservation Work in Costa Rica
(Juan Santamaria)
Location: Atenas
Accommodation and meals: host family and Costa Rican
Like other developing country citizens, Costa Ricans need help understanding the importance of
their natural surroundings and the value of preservation. They also need dedicated volunteers who
are willing to motivate and inspire local conservation staffs in Costa Rica. Safeguarding the exquisite ecosystems of Costa Rica is only possible if conservation
efforts begin at the grassroots level and have motivated staffs and volunteers.
The conservation program takes place in the lush valley of Atenas, famous for coffee and sugarcane plantations. The area also has very rich soil, making it possible for most things to grow here. The program is currently understaffed so needs volunteers. It works with municipal forest and is building trails as well as promoting newer conservation programs. There are also many tree planting programs throughout Atenas.
Role of Volunteer
Costa Rica conservation volunteering project generally work to upgrade the existing facilities and help
develop creative eco-tourism-related projects. The primary jobs of volunteers will range based on project
choice, but many work to maintain and improve existing facilities and help with trail construction. Many
protected areas serve as educational centers for the community. Volunteers often develop environmental
education for children and the community, and establish different sustainable systems to guarantee conservation of flora, fauna and water resources in the areas. The Costa Rican Protected Areas are especially proud
of the diversity of birds (red and green macaws) and butterflies (morphos) that live in their forest along with
small mammals such as anteaters, raccoons, and others that proliferate within their boundaries.
Organic and Sustainable Farming Project

The hills around Atenas have very fertile soil and
Project: Organic and Sustainable in Costa Rica
farmers there have seen rich harvest for many years.
But these farmers stopped using organic seeds
and depended on imported seeds and fertilizers
(Juan Santamaria)
long time back. Overtime, they came to realize the
Location: Atenas
damaged these can do to the soil and dangerously
increase the farmers dependency on them. But
with organic farming, they can now look forward to
their soil regenerating and for their product to fetch
Activities: work with coffee farmers to promote conservagreater price in the market. There is now a great
tion work
enthusiasm to go organic among the farmers. Our
volunteers in the project will work with these farmers to promote organic and sustainable farming and give them plenty of reasons to be very cheerful for the
future.
10
Role of Volunteer
Volunteers will with local farmers to receive training and then become involve in seminars and awareness
programs to spread the benefits of organic farming and its long term advantages. You will work mostly with
coffee farmers and spend the majority of your time outdoors in the farms, helping the farmers with variety
of work, including picking coffee.
Turtle Conservation Project in Costa Rica

Sea turtles always return to nest on the beach at
which they were hatched, but many turtles never
return due to natural predators and the ones who
do face eroding beaches, pollution and other physical challenges upon arrival. Conservation efforts
for the Lora Turtle can do little to combat natural
predators, but focus on protecting the nesting
population who does return home. Human poachers also pose a threat on top of natural challenges.
The rate of decline is so high that, if not slowed, the
Lora Turtle will be extinct in two decades.
Role of Volunteer

Project: Turtle Conservation Project in Costa Rica
(Juan Santamaria)
Location: North Pacific or Caribbean Coast
Language Need: English fluency mandatory; Basic/intermediate Spanish fluency preferred
Activities: Preserve turtle nesting sites and protect turtles
from poachers and predators
Costa Rican Lora Turtle conservation efforts mainly focus on protecting nesting sites, incubation and release
of hatchlings. Our volunteer projects throughout the country are placed where the majority of turtles return to nest. Each beach has varied nesting seasons and the nesting timing is different for all species of sea
turtles. These variations produce varied project dates and locations.

Typical volunteer duties include day and night beach patrols of nesting sites to protect turtles and eggs
from poachers. Night patrols are challenging with commitments between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. regardless of
weather. Patrols run in 4-hour shifts, but longer if turtles or eggs are located.
Research and documentation helps future efforts. The collection of vital data and newly laid eggs and recently hatched turtles for release when they are larger and stronger is crucial for conservation progress.
Statistics are also collected when a turtle is located and volunteers measure and tag the turtle.
Hatchery shifts tend to run about six hours and are exciting. Duties include relocating nests, keeping
predators at bay, providing information to tourists and releasing hatchlings.
Other possible volunteer duties include trail and beach maintenance and clean-up.
Mini-Venture (2 weeks)
Our Costa Rica Mini-Venture provides volunteers fantastic opportunities to be immerged in Costa Rica s
unique culture and intimately involved in one of our social or conservation projects, while at the same time
touring this beautiful, tropical country. The Mini-Venture is an excellent alternative to the typical tourist journey and provides participants the opportunity to work in Costa as a volunteer, followed by a 3-day journey
exploring the amazing natural beauty of Costa Rica .
At the conclusion of your volunteer work, Global Crossroad will guide you on a sight and sound-filled tour
where you will discover the astounding beauty that is Costa Rica - relax on sparkling beaches, explore untouched rainforests, all-the-while enjoying the warm, smiling hospitality of Costa Ricas people.
11
Summer Escapes of Costa Rica

Exploring a Natural Paradise
Come to beautiful Costa Rica - a tropical paradise and one of the worlds best destinations for both socioand eco-tourism. An abundance of opportunities for conservation amid white sand beaches makes Costa
Rica an excellent destination for everyone from sunbathers and surfers to scientists and teachers. Excitement
awaits either the adventurer - in the countrys rainforests and on top of its steaming, active volcanoes - or
those seeking relaxation and the enjoyment of la pura vida - the good life in Costa Rica! Global Crossroads
Summer Escapes in Costa Rica provide volunteers with a month-long adventure in Costa Rica - splitting time
between volunteering in community services projects, cultural immersion and amazing travel to some of
this countrys most amazing sites.
INTERNSHIP ABROAD
Give back to humanity while growing your mind and earning college credit! Our programs offer local supervisors to keep you on track while you work in your personalized placement, designed to give you exactly
what you need from your internship. Our internships function much like our volunteer programs and offer
the same free-time options for travel and exploration. Immerse in a foreign country and earn college credit
what could be better? *Internships must be pre-arranged prior to departure and may incur minor additional
administrative fees.
GROUP PROGRAMS (Church, School, College, University,

etc)
Some experiences are strengthened when they are shared! Volunteer as a group and feel your enjoyment and satisfaction increase
exponentially. Church and work groups, friends and organizations
all groups are welcome and all will thrive in their customized placements! Imagine evenings and weekends spent sharing and comparing stories of volunteer success and personal fulfillment! Inquire today about a group opportunity we will
surpass your every expectation!
FAMILY PROGRAMS
Engage your family in an alternative vacation and emerge as an improved family unit! Strengthen family
bonds and shared values as you work side by side with indigenous people. Support local families as they
struggle to improve their living circumstances or create a family-feel in an orphanage. We customize your
familys volunteer project placement with consideration given to ages, interests and physical abilities. Give
your family the gift of immersing in a new and different culture and the satisfaction of knowing they have
made an incredible difference in the world.
When I arrived I was the first volunteer and I found this a little daunting but I was soon at
ease when I chatted with family and teachers about how I could help. I realized there was
loads of stuff that needed doing where I could be of assistance. I also played games and sports
with kids, baked cookies and did art and craft. - Lara Grant
12
IMPORTANT QUESTIONS AND INFORMATION FOR TRAVEL TO AND

VOLUNTEERING IN COSTA RICA
Applying to Volunteer in Costa Rica
Global Crossroad has offered volunteer/internship assignments in Costa Rica since 2003. We are able to
place volunteers on the 1st or 3rd Monday of any month, year round. We recommend applying at least two
months in advance, as there is an ever-increasing volume of applications. If your application must be expedited for quicker placement, please contact our office for more information. Once Global Crossroad receives
and reviews your completed application, it is then forwarded to our In-Country Coordinator in Costa Rica
who will then finalize a personal assignment as per your qualifications, experience and requests. Your finalized placement details are forwarded to you upon completion. The application process may take up to 2-4
weeks occasionally longer given the time of year and influx of applications to your chosen country. However, in the event that an applicant requires quicker placement due to time constraints, we request you contact
Global Crossroads offices prior to submitting an application.
Visa Information
Securing a tourist visa is the volunteers responsibility and Global Crossroad requires all volunteers to obtain
a tourist visa before departing for Costa Rica. Please call our office or contact your nearest Costa Rica embassy to learn more about visa, visa fees and visa extensions. Much information can be learned online by searching out Costa Ricas embassy or consulate.
Placement Information
Global Crossroads in-country Coordinator in Costa Rica is responsible for researching appropriate volunteer
projects as per the qualifications, skills and interests of the applicants. Project schedules vary for each project
in Costa Rica. Most projects are from Monday to Friday, for approximately 5-6 hours a day. Most volunteers
have the weekends and evenings off to sightsee or explore Costa Rica on their own. Most programs in Costa
Rica will take place outside of the cities in rural areas. Review the details of your project on our website or in
your placement documents for the particular city or area to which you will be travelling.
Arrival and Departure Information
International flight coordination and payment of international airfare is a volunteers responsibility. San
Jos International Airport (Juan Santamaria) is an international airport located in the city of San Jos, Costa
Rica. Please arrive the day before your assignment begins. If you wish to arrive earlier, your accommodation
and meals will be your responsibility. Please review our assignment or Spanish Language Studies start day
details in your personal placement information package we will forward to you. You will be greeted up at the
airport, but you must send your travel itinerary to our Costa Rica in-country Coordinator and to us at Global
Crossroads offices before your arrival in Costa Rica. You will be met by a local staff member or our in-country coordinator. They will be holding a sign with your name, awaiting your arrival outside of the airport. If
you miss our representative due to flight delay or confusion, please call the in-country coordinator number
provided in your placement details. This rarely happens, but be prepared by keeping this important information with you as you travel. Make sure you look carefully for your pick-up representative, as it is normally
busy outside of the airport.
13
What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

Please make sure that you pack all your necessary documents: passport, copy of passport and at least one
other form of picture ID.
Please bring your volunteer assignment placement details.
Prepare financially to cover unforeseen expenses up to $50-100 USD/week for extra expenses and travel to
your project each day.
Prepare your mind and spirit for the experience to which you have committed. Culture shock affects everyone and it may be so strong that you want to quit the week after arrival. Take precautions: read about
your county/city, study the culture and language(s) and learn about food and customs.
Health and Safety
How safe is Costa Rica?

Any international travel requires caution and awareness. We suggest that all volunteers consult their own
government advisory office before participating in a Global Crossroad program. International travel does
present risks, especially with the modern-day threat of international terrorism. The U.S. State Department
issues travel warnings and advisories in many countries for American travelers. These travel advisories and
warnings change frequently as situations in each country transform.
These links provide travel information:
British Foreign Office Advice
http://www.fco.gov.uk/
American State Department Advice
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html
Australian Government Advice
http://www.dfat.gov.au/
Canadian Government Advice
http://canada.gc.ca/main_e.html
What are the principle health risks in Argentina?

We use the Center for Disease Control travelers health recommendations www.cdc.gov. You should also
consult a travel doctor who will be knowledgeable about current epidemics, health risks and recommended
vaccinations.
Communication
How do I contact with Global Crossroads local coordinator?
The contact details of our Costa Rica in-country Coordinator will be given in the final placement sheet. You
can contact him by email or telephone; we suggest all volunteers speak with country coordinator before they
arrive. International Direct Dialing from Costa Rica is available in cities. Phone cards are widely available
and calls can be made from post offices, hotels and phone booths on the streets. In hotels, local calls are generally charged at a nominal fee. Internet cafes are available in most towns, although they can sometimes be
noisy as they are a popular spot for the youth to play online games. You can use any type of communication
to call back home.
14
Culture & Customs

Volunteers should dress conservatively when at their assignments.
Jeans and a t-shirt are acceptable. No short-shorts and tank tops
please. Remember to consider the regional religious beliefs of Costa
Rica, which may be extremely conservative and revealing clothing
is unacceptable - shorts and skirts must be at least knee-length and
no one should show their shoulders. Costa Rica respects different
cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs and moral concepts.
Christianity is the predominant religion, and Roman Catholicism is the official state religion according to
the 1949 Constitution, which at the same time guarantees freedom of religion. According to the most recent
nationwide survey of religion, conducted in 2007 by the University of Costa Rica, 70.5% of Costa Ricans are
Roman Catholics, 44.9% of the population are practicing Catholics, 13.8% are Evangelical Protestants (many
of them Pentecostal), 11.3% report that they do not have a religion, and 4.3% belonged to another. You may
practice on your own accord, yet remember to be respectful of Costa Rican customs and traditions while
traveling.
Be inclusive and show respect of their culture. Costa Ricas culture is rich in customs and traditions. People of
Costa Rica enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to take part with them. You
can go with your hosts on outings if they ask you to or invite them along with you to go on an outing. Simply
helping your family do household chores will be another bonding experience that you can enjoy.
More Information about Costa Rica

Official Holidays in Costa Rica
Like many other countries in the world Costa Rica schools also observes three sets of holidays: school, official
and traditional holidays.

Jan 1: New Years Day

Mar 19: St. Josephs Day
Easter: Holy Week, Semana Santa
Apr 11: Juan Santamaria Day
May 1: Labor Day
June: Corpus Christi
June 29: St. Peter and St. Pauls Day
Jul 25: Guanacaste Day
Aug 2: Virgin de los Angeles Day
Aug 15: Mothers Day and Assumption Day
Sep15: Independence Day
October 12: Dia de la Raza (Columbus Day) Limon province only, marked by carnival, which take place
in the week prior to October 12.
Nov 2: All Souls Day
Dec 8: Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary
Dec 25: Christmas Day
15
What about tipping in Costa Rica?

Tipping is expected in Costa Rica, so make sure to tip all service employees as well as in restaurants. 10% is a
normal amount.
Materials to Bring

Backpack
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
Sandals
2 pairs of pants (lightweight)
2 T-shirts
3 short-sleeved shirts
2 long-sleeved shirt
3 pairs of shorts and bathing suit
Lightweight jacket or rain jacket, depending on season
Layer for warmth, evenings may be cool regardless of season
Hat or cap
Towel and personal bath kit
SPF/sun protection, sunglasses
Camera
Mosquito net
Bedding (if noted in placement document)
My experience has been one that I will never forget. Over the past three weeks, I have spent
time in one orphanage and two schools. An experience like the one that I had will only make
you want to help even more. - Kyle Brand
16
WHY GLOBAL CROSSROAD
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited

Global Crossroad, LLC has been a BBB accredited business since January 2007. This means we pass all the
requirements to become BBB Accredited business. Based on BBB files, Global has a BBB Rating of A- on a
scale from A+ to F.
Price and Value
Global Crossroad programs are unique. Unlike other international volunteer organizations, we offer highly
affordable placements that are designed for low budgets, like those of college students or young professionals
just beginning their careers. Most Western-based volunteer abroad organizations conduct volunteer programs
in Asia, Africa and Latin America in collaboration with many of the same partner associations also affiliated
to Global Crossroad. However, no one can surpass our unbeatable prices for unforgettable memories.
Variety and Choice
Our diverse programs (volunteer or intern abroad, mini-ventures, summer escapes, paid teaching, humanitarian trips, language & cultural immersion and scientific research expeditions) offer a wide range of varieties
and multiple choices to match the volunteers needs and interests.
Experience and Safety
Since 2003, we have been specializing in volunteer abroad programs. We regularly travel to our project
sites to meet volunteers, local people and organizations; and revise and establish meaningful and important
programs. All of our country coordinators have extensive experience with facilitating international volunteer
programs. Our coordinator attention to detail, awareness and familiarity with our locations creates a safe environment for our volunteers and our coordinators are constantly praised and recognized by our participants
for their friendliness, hard work and professional services.
Support to Local Communities
In Global Crossroad, we are committed to serve the communities where we work. In 2005, we collected and
donated nearly 200,000 (two hundred thousand dollars) for tsunami victim in Sri Lanka. We generally place
volunteers in local projects/organizations that are resource poor and desperately need volunteer assistance. A
portion of each participants program fee goes directly local projects and communities.
Flexibility of our Programs
Our programs are highly flexible timelines are not set in stone and details can be customized. In addition
to volunteer projects outlined on our website, Global Crossroad also offers placements in other areas at the
special request of our volunteers. In our programs, volunteers usually work from 2-12 weeks; however, in
many countries it is possible for volunteers to extend their stay. We can tailor fit a program to suit your wants
and needs: maybe including more than one project in a single country, combining projects in two or more
countries or personalizing a travel excursion.
17
Multinational Programs and Travel Features

Global Crossroad offers more than a simple volunteer trip. We strive to enrich each participants experience
with informative language and culture immersion programs, intensive mini-ventures and fascinating travel
expeditions in our partner countries. Global Crossroads unique program allows volunteers to participate in
as many programs and travel to as many countries as they wish.
Informative Language and Culture Instructions
Global Crossroads volunteer adventures generally begin with 1-2 weeks of language and culture immersion.
These informative programs start with basic language training, cultural exposure and excursions to places of
historic significance. Volunteers also join village or home stay programs to experience the richness of rural
life in their particular country. After 1-2 weeks of intensive language training, cultural experiences and familiarization with the local culture, customs, religion and ways of life, our volunteers are thoroughly prepared to
maximize their contribution and enjoy their personalized projects.
Educational Endeavors
From the Himalayan peaks of Nepal to the plains of the Indian peninsula and from the dense Peruvian jungle
to the Pacific shores of Kenya and Tanzania, Global Crossroad seeks to educate participants about our world
through a number of unique, challenging and highly educational opportunities. Our programs reach beyond
simple volunteering and submerge participants in real-life experiences that provide honest exposure to
issues assaulting the world. Their memories are imprinted with sights, smells and sounds of the developing
world and their perspectives are forever altered by the cultural diversity and living circumstances that they
witness.
NOTE: The booklet gives generic information and should not be used as a definitive travel guide. Travel
information and situations abroad change constantly. Participants should consult Global Crossroad or travel
advisors to verify this information.

Costa Rica PDF

Încărcat de

Informații document

Descriere originală:

Titlu original

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

Costa Rica PDF

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

www.globalcrossroad.

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Truly most affordable - starts at $105

Volunteer in Costa Rica

With Global Crossroads Volunteer in Costa Rica

Volunteer Program in Costa Rica

Dates and Prices

* Airport Pickup and Transfer (Atenas-2 hours) $85

Language and Cultural Immersion Program

Volunteer in Costa Rica: Project Locations and Free Time Options

Program: Volunteer in Costa Rica

Sustainable and Organic Farming

Volunteer in an orphanage project

Children At-Risk Project

Medical Volunteer in Costa Rica Project

Conservation Work in Costa Rica

Program: Volunteer in Costa Rica

Organic and Sustainable Farming Project

Turtle Conservation Project in Costa Rica

Program: Volunteer in Costa Rica

Summer Escapes of Costa Rica

GROUP PROGRAMS (Church, School, College, University,

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS AND INFORMATION FOR TRAVEL TO AND

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

How safe is Costa Rica?

What are the principle health risks in Argentina?

How do I contact with Global Crossroads local coordinator?

Culture & Customs

More Information about Costa Rica

Jan 1: New Years Day

What about tipping in Costa Rica?

WHY GLOBAL CROSSROAD

Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited

Multinational Programs and Travel Features

S-ar putea să vă placă și