1. Education

ICARI Spanish Learning Centre (Costa Rica)

Reader Reviews: Spanish Language Immersion Schools

User Rating 5 Star Rating

From daboussie

Spanish language immersion school

Name of school: 

Instituto Caribeño de Idiomas (ICARI)

Dates of attendance: 

September to October 2010

School's city and country: 

Cahuita, Costa Rica

My Review 

ICARI provided the best experience we possibly could have hoped for. The teachers were extremely well trained and professional, providing a truly first class Spanish education. We definitely got our money's worth.

As written on their website: "ICARI is not like other Spanish Language schools" — this could not be more true. It is obvious that the school is not just out to make money, but to genuinely connect with each student while providing a quality education. We came out of the experience seeing our teachers as true friends that we intend to keep in touch with!

I have heard of and visited several other similar schools around Central America, and I would hands-down recommend ICARI over every single one of them.

Quality of instruction 

Excellent

Level of Spanish before attending 

No knowledge of Spanish

Did the school accurately represent its program to you? 

Yes.

Were school employees helpful outside of the classroom? 

Always or almost always.

What are some pros and cons of the school's location? 

Cahuita is a beautiful spot — a corner of Costa Rica not yet overrun by tourism. We loved exploring the Cahuita National Park and surrounding areas! Amazing beaches and exquisite scenery and wildlife!

Traveling to the pacific coast is a bit lengthy, you have to go through San Jose.

Rate the quality of your home stay 

Excellent.

Personal security 

I always felt safe.

What did you most like about attending this school? 

I loved staying at the school with Jose and Francisco — they made it great!

What did you most dislike about attending this school? 

The better surf spots are on the Pacific Coast.

Whom would this school be best suited for? 

Families, young travelers, surfers, couples, you name it! ICARI is flexible, fun, and will cater to the needs of just about anyone.

If you are looking to party all the time, might want to look into another location.

Would you recommend this to a friend? 

Yes

Gerald Erichsen, Spanish Language Guide, says:

Website: http://www.cahuita-spanish.com

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