Spanish language immersion school
Name of school:
Spanish by the RiverDates of attendance:
Dec. 20, 2010, to Jan. 7, 2011School's city and country:
Turrialba, Costa RicaMy Review
I had a great time taking classes at Spanish by bhe River.
The classroom setting is ideal. Small student-teacher ratio. Comfortable, outdoor classrooms with great views of a volcano, the valley, banana trees, bamboo, birds and sloths!
Teachers are excellent, staff is friendly and helpful. You can do homestays with a Costa Rican family or stay in the hostel at the school. Hostel is clean and has everything you need, including kitchen and Wi-Fi. Many adventure and cultural activities to do too.
They also have locations in Panama so you can continue your instruction at the sea and in the mountains of Panama too. I think I will visit Bocas del Toro next.
Quality of instruction
ExcellentLevel of Spanish before attending
BeginnerDid 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?
Turrialba is a nice place to learn the immersion way. It is a typical Costa Rican town and not touristy, so you can really meet the people, practice your Spanish and make friends.
The school is on the hillside above the town, giving great views. It's a 5-minute taxi or bus ride to downtown.
Rate the quality of your home stay
I didn't stay at a home.Personal security
I always felt safe.What did you most like about attending this school?
Teachers, fellow students, outdoor classrooms, staff.
What did you most dislike about attending this school?
Nothing to dislike. All was as expected or better.
Whom would this school be best suited for?
Good for students who are serious about learning Spanish and experiencing Costa Rican culture. Students were mostly European and American and between the ages of mid-20s and mid-40s when I was there. Festive and social place but not for big partiers.
