Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I bring my laptop for e-mail?

If you're staying on campus, it's probably a good idea to bring your laptop. There is wireless access on campus and it's a great tool to have with you. If you're staying with a host family, you may want to avoid bringing the laptop because it's simply one more thing to haul around with you and worry about. There are also very inexpensive Internet café's throughout Santa Ana where you can go online and even make inexpensive long-distance phone calls. We have free wireless Internet on campus. However, we recommend you avoid bringing your laptop if you can. It's simply one more item to worry about while you're moving around.

2. How much spending money should I bring?

We have found that students spend between $75 and $200 per weekend while touring in Costa Rica. One day excursions generally cost about $75. For overnight trips you will need between $100 and $150, including transportation, hotel and meals.

3. Do I need to get any shots before leaving home?

Most students do not take shots or prior medication, such as Malaria pills. Some students who plan on extended stays in isolated areas might consider hepatitis shots. We recommend you speak with your primary care physician before your trip either way.

4. Is the water safe to drink?

Tap water is safe in the greater metropolitan area. However, students should not drink the water or ice in rural areas. Fried and/or prepared foods, sold by street vendors, should be avoided.

5. Can I sign up for Latin Dance classes while I'm there?

We have a weekly Latin dance class on campus. If you would like to enroll in a more regular class, let us know and we'll assist you.

6. I'm a vegetarian, is that a problem?

No, our host families are accustomed to having vegetarians. In Santa Ana, our kitchen staff will provide you with a vegetarian option on days when meat dishes are served. Rice and beans are served every day and in general a wide variety of fruit and vegetables are available.

7. What kind of gifts might be appropriate for my host family?

As a rule, small gifts are more easily packed. Conversa suggests bringing key chains, coffee mugs, T-shirts or candy. Another thing might be to take your host family out to dinner to their favorite restaurant one night. Or even cook dinner Gringo style!

8. Do I need a valid passport?

Yes. As of January 1st 2003, all tourists entering the country need to have a valid passport. Prior to this date, a tourist card was enough. However, recent tightening of security procedures requires a valid passport for all entering the country.

9. Which ATM debit, credit and phone cards work in Costa Rica?

Most ATM debit cards do work here. VISA, AMEX and MASTERCARD are widely accepted throughout the country. Few other credit cards are widely accepted. CONVERSA takes VISA, America Express, Master Card and Diners Club.

Only A.T.&T., M.C.I., SPRINT and BELL have local 800 numbers that work in Costa Rica. You can also buy local phone cards that work for international calls. You can also purchase pre-paid SIM cards for use with GSM technology mobile phones.

10. Do I need to get a visa to stay over 30 days in the country?

American, Canadian and most European citizens are good for 90 days without a visa. It is possible to extend an additional 30 days as well. For longer stays students should request a student visa at a Costa Rican consulate or depart the country for 72 hours after every 90 days. If you're not sure if you need a visa, please let us know and we'll be happy to assist you. REMINDER: Airport exit tax for tourists is around $26 U.S.

11. Should I change money before I arrive?

No, there is no need to change money until you are in Costa Rica. We will explain to you during orientation where and how to change cash. We recommend you bring an ATM card with you. This way you will be able to draw colones from a dollar account back home very easily.

12. Are there opportunities for volunteer work?

Yes, there are several opportunities in and around Santa Ana. Click here.

13. How much will I spend on food?

Breakfast and dinner are included in the program fee and provided by your host family. Lunch is also provided on campus. The only meals you'll have to buy will be the ones you take on your own when you're moving around the country, outside the school and the host family. You can expect to spend anywhere between $5 and $50 on a meal ($5 will buy you the McDonalds Big Mac combo while $50 will get you a three course meal with drinks at a fancy steakhouse).

14. What happens if I get sick?

Medical attention in Costa Rica is excellent and comparable to the United States, Canada and Europe. We recommend that all students make sure they have international medical coverage. At Conversa we subscribe to an emergency medical service on campus. If you get sick on campus and you need to get medical attention immediately, we will call this service (there is no cost for this). If it's not an emergency, we assist you in getting an appointment with an appropriate physician. A rough figure for a medical consultation is $60). If it IS an emergency, we'll assist you in getting to the CIMA hospital as quickly as possible for treatment.

15. How old do I have to be to participate?

Conversa teaches Spanish to students of all ages. Our child care option helps very small children pick up some of the language while their parents are in class. Our Children's Program works with kids between the ages of 6 and 10. We find that kids 11 and up do just fine in our Intensive programs. Students who are younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult - whether the adult participates or not.

16. Will my cell phone work in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica's cell phone service provider (currently there is only one - ICE) works with Cincinnati Bell Wireless, Cingular, Sprint/Nextel, SunCom Wireless, and T-Mobile. However, we STRONGLY RECOMMEND that you confirm this with your existing provider as this list is changing constantly.
The Academic Program

Spanish Training Methodology

Get College Credit for Spanish Classes

Spanish Course List

Host Family Program

Spanish Program Prices

Volunteer Opportunities