Here are some comments from customers who have already been to Costa Rica with i-to-i:
Costa Rica - Building"I only stayed for one week, but I absolutely loved every minute of it. The work was hard, but very much worth it. I enjoyed the program especially because I feel there could have been no better way to be immersed in the culture. The homestay family was beyond magnificent, and the food, and the projects. All of it was more than I'd hoped for, and it has helped me to believe even stronger that humanitarian projects is the line of work I hope to spend the rest of my life doing. Thank you for such a wonderful opportunity as this."
Amanda Baker, Build homes for underprivileged families in Costa Rica
"My preschoolers are doing great and I'm currently teaching them the alphabet in both Spanish and English. Also, 3 new kids arrived last week and 2 of them are pre'school age, so it has been a little challenge and interesting watching them adapt to their new environment in the homes and with other children their age. My relationship with the staff and all children has become very close and as Seetal, former volunteer and house mate, is gone now, I am beginning to feel a little nervous about how my departure in one month from now, will be. Also, last Friday I led devotions, which occur daily among the older niñoz and staff.
Now that I am the solo volunteer, I am able to practice more of my español and have been told that it is improving immensely which means that I am closer to one of my many goals, that being, completely bilingual (smiling). Hope you are enjoying the sunshine and weather while I Dengue-proof my every step and break the record for most repellent used by a single person. Truly, this is an incredible experience and I have not one regret in choosing to be of service down here. "
Carmen Renteria, Community work with underpriviledged children in Costa Rica
"I just want to thank you so much for all your help this past week, which helped to make my experience that much more enjoyable. I had such an amazing time, and I'm already planning my next i-to-I trip for December. The trouble is deciding which one I want to do next. I'm sad that I couldn't stay longer but this whole experience has really made me want to do more, get more involved and really educate the public about changes that need to be made and encourage everyone to get involved. I have also been thinking that you really do have the coolest job in the world and was wondering how I could inquire about working for i-to-i myself. Thanks again! I hope that all the other placements are going smoothly and that you are seeing lots of beautiful turtles!!"
Krystal Lapierre, Sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica
"I am having a great time. I just got back from La Fortuna with a bunch of other people from i to i. We had a great weekend doing the white water rafting and the canopy tour, AMAZING. I am having a wonderful time and cant believe it has been 2 weeks. the time is flying by so fast. : ( I dont want to leave. This is definately a wonderful experience that i will never forget. "
Stacey McCann, Teach English in rural Costa Rica
"Thankyou for the oppertunity for me to go to Costa Rica and i will definatley look into my nxt trip with your organisation, God knows where or when,but thats part of the beautiful adventure,and making memories."
Thomas Lloyd, The Costa Rica volunteer experience
"Fernando, Marcela, Nicki, Gustavo and the entire i-to-i team were wonderful. They made us feel right at home"
Chris Stewart, Ecology and Sea Turtle conservation
"Excellent preparation for the project. Knew exactly what to expect. The in-country team were also excellent. Gave us a thorough briefing yet they weren't intrusive and didn't "Nanny" us, but it was good to know they were there just in case. My thanks to Marcela,Fernando and Nikki.It was a great experience to get involved with and I particularly enjoyed the interaction with the animals. Although I was initially apprehensive about Homestay accomodation it turned out to be fine and added to the whole experience. More wildlife projects please!"
Andrew Swales, Conservation at a big cat reserve in Costa Rica
"Well, we've all arrived home safely and are trying to adjust to normal life - not easy after such a fantastic time in your beautiful country! On behalf of the team I just wanted to say "muchas gracias" for all the help you gave me prior to departure, especially with respect to our stay in Puntarenas. Also, thanks to the rest of the i-to-i team (Nikki, Carlos, Gustavo and Juan) for all their help and support during our stay. I know that I speak for everyone when I say that we've just experienced the best and most rewarding life experience ever!"
Grant Thornton Group, Build homes for underprivileged families in Costa Rica
"Things are going really well thank you. I am really enjoying teaching, and the children are very sweet. I have been planning lots of things to do with my weekends as well and recently went to Tortuguero with a few other volunteers which was a lot of fun."
Ciara Stratford, Community work with underpriviledged children in Costa Rica
