Spanish Immersion for Adults in Costa Rica & Ecuador

Your Spanish will come alive on this immersion program! Whether you are a business professional that could learn Spanish as a tool to better serve your clients, a stay-at-home parent that has always had this goal, or work in a community with a high percentage of Spanish speakers, this program is for you! Learn Spanish to have an impact in the communities where you live, work and volunteer. All levels of learners are welcome from beginning to advanced.

Info Meeting: Sept 19th, 2024 – Register below!
(6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central & 9pm Eastern)

This presentation is a general overview of our Spanish immersion programs in Costa Rica and Ecuador.

CHOOSE YOUR SPANISH IMMERSION LOCATION

Costa Rica

Costa Rica Spanish Immersion

Highlights

1 – 6 week programs
Consider 10 days to have a full weekend to explore!
Live like a local with a host family (hotel / hostel options too)
20hrs/week Spanish Classes
Optional 1:1 private lessons
Tuesday – Thursday community service outreach projects
Explore amazing beaches, volcanoes, cloud forests, coffee tours, national parks & más!
A great place to include your family or significant other for a post-trip vacation
Interprofessional mix of fellow travelers
Open to Adults, Families, High Schoolers, Undergrads, Grad students, Teachers & Healthcare workers.

Location

Based in Santo Domingo de Heredia

2025 Dates

Winter Program starts Feb 1, 2025
Summer Program starts Jul 5, 2025

24/7 Support

24/7 leadership, coordination & support by engaging program leaders

Price

View trip cost and inclusions

Possible to combine with Ecuador programs

Learn more

Ecuador

Ecuador Spanish Immersion

Highlights

1 & 2 week programs: Consider 10 days to have a full weekend to explore!
Live like a local with a host family (hotel / hostel options too)
20hrs/week Spanish Classes
Optional 1:1 private lessons
Tuesday – Thursday community service outreach projects
Explore local markets, Inca ruins, national parks, the Andes, soak in volcanic hot springs, mitad del mundo & más!
Learn Spanish with other professionals from all walks of life
Open to Adults, Families, High Schoolers, Undergrads, Grad students, Teachers & Healthcare workers.

Location

Based in Cuenca, Ecuador

2025 Dates

Summer Program starts Jun 14, 2025

24/7 Support

24/7 leadership, coordination & support by engaging program leaders

Price

View trip cost and inclusions

Possible to combine with Costa Rica programs

Learn more

Save your spot

This program fills on a first come, first served basis. Reserve a spot on the trip – no obligation – no credit card, just 30 days to help you coordinate your schedule!

*If you are a teacher or a healthcare worker, you may want to consider our specialized Spanish immersion programs:

Medical Spanish Immersion Trip

Learn Medical Spanish in small group classes.
Volunteer in the community health setting.
Earn CME / CE credits

Learn more

Teachers Spanish Immersion Trip

Learn Spanish for the classroom and communication with parents.
Volunteer in community schools and organizations leading educational camps.
Earn Continuing Education & PDU credits

Learn more

This Spanish Immersion for Adults is perfect for those who wants to improve their Spanish skills for personal and/or professional purposes. What are the primary components of our program?

We weave 4 Spanish language components into your everyday experience to maximize your Spanish learning and cultural exposure. Here’s how…

Small Group Conversational Spanish classes

Communicative Spanish classes combined with relevant grammar, vocabulary and lot’s of practice are the key to actually speaking. It’s easy to be a passive learner and spend many hours studying Spanish – immersion classes focus on using Spanish immediately! Often we learn more but don’t move the needle on our speaking. Classes are taught by professionals and conversationally focused so that you build confidence speaking Spanish!

Lodging with a local host family

Participants are immersed in speaking Spanish 24/7 and acquiring Spanish as they relate to the host family and experience daily culture in Central and South America.
Of course, you have the option in both Costa Rica and Ecuador to stay on your own in a hostel or hotel. You will miss out on some conversational Spanish, but if you need your private space, you can certainly get it.

Weekend Adventures

Work hard Monday through Friday on your Spanish and take a break on the weekends! We put together group travel options for you on the weekends that you can join, or you can venture off on your own. When we explore with the group, we commit to speaking Spanish on the weekend as well to keep the immersion alive.

Participating in volunteer projects

Watch the most recent Adult & Family Spanish Immersion Info Meeting:

Watch the info meeting to learn more!

Everything that I thought it would be, it was. And things I never thought I would see or experience, I did!

Kathi V.

Tampa, Fl

Why travel with Common Ground International?

This Spanish Immersion for Adults is perfect for those who want to improve their Spanish skills for personal and/or professional purposes. What are the primary components of our program?

You’re not alone

We understand that traveling alone isn’t for everyone. We are in country to support you! There is safety and peace of mind when you have others checking in with you every day. You’re surrounded by like-minded professionals and you’ll work closely with one of our lead Spanish instructors

We prepare you before you travel

Preparation is essential for establishing clear expectations, staying safe, knowing the day to day plan, and positioning yourself and your Spanish for maximum success on your program. Our custom pre-departure course is an amazingly effective online course that connects you with your fellow travelers and prepares you for every single detail – including culture shock!

You know where we live

We’re a Colorado-based organization, and we have a clear track record of amazing Spanish immersion programs. You can call us up at any time (303) 684-5557, speak English (or Spanish), and get your questions answered immediately. That’s worth its weight in gold!

We offer the best language and cultural outcomes

The primary difference with our adult Spanish immersion programs is that we weave 4 Spanish language components into your everyday experience. In other words, you learn Spanish through everything you do Mon – Fri.
Here is how we do it:
Learning Spanish in daily immersion classes with native Spanish speaking teachers.
Staying with a local host family so that you’re immersed in speaking Spanish 24/7 and acquiring Spanish as you relate to your host family and experience daily culture in Latin America.
Participate in local volunteer projects that serve communities with identified needs.

Earn College Credit while you travel!

Get up to 5 undergraduate university credits for all of the fun and challenging immersion work you’ll do abroad.

Our trips are accredited for 200-level (2nd year) college credits as follows:

3 College Spanish credits for 2-week programs
4 College Spanish credits for 3-week programs
5 College Spanish credits for 4 week programs

Additional fees apply. Email Leslie for more information

College credit for Spanish Immersion Trip

At first I was so apprehensive, I was so scared because this is the first time I’ve ever traveled to a foreign country alone but the experience was amazing. It’s fantastic I would highly recommend it!

Nancy

COSTA RICA & ECUADOR SPANISH IMMERSION FOR ADULTS

A perfect blend of Spanish immersion, professional growth and adventure

If I participate – What are the expected outcomes?

Become more fluent in Spanish

A life-changing experience

A deeper understanding of the culture

Participate in relevant, sustainable and language-rich community engagement projects

Explore the beauty of Costa Rica and Ecuador

Learn outside your comfort zone

This adult Spanish immersion and experiential learning opportunity provides adults with intensive Spanish language and cultural learning in its natural context. We intentionally integrate the four components below so you walk away with practical Spanish skills and cultural understanding.

Spanish Classes

Volunteer work

Host family living

Exploring the hot spots

Brief Intro & Types of Adult Spanish Immersion Travelers:

COSTA RICA IMMERSION PROGRAM DETAILS

Costa Rica Spanish for Adults Immersion

Highlights

1 – 6 weeks in length
Consider 10 days to have a full weekend to explore
Live like a local with a host family (hotel / hostel options too)
20hrs/week of Spanish classes
Optional 1:1 private lessons
Tuesday – Thursday outreach projects
Explore amazing beaches, volcanoes , cloud forests, coffee tours, national parks & más!
A great place to include your family or significant other for a post-trip vacation
Interprofessional mix of fellow travelers
Fly in and out of San Jose (SJO)

Location
Based in Santo Domingo de Heredia

Price

View trip cost and inclusions

Sloth - Costa Rica Spanish Teachers Immersion Trip

Winter 2025 Dates

1-Week Programs

2/1/25 – 2/8/25

2-Week Programs

2/1/25 – 2/15/25

3-Week Programs

2/1/25 – 2/22/25

4-Week Programs

2/1/25 – 3/1/25

5-Week Programs

2/1/25 – 3/8/25 (wk 5 is “off-program”) – see FAQs

6-Week Programs

2/1/25 – 3/15/25 (wks 5 & 6 are “off-program”) – see FAQs

Summer 2025 Dates

1-Week Programs

7/5/25-7/12/25
7/12/25 – 7/19/25

2-Week Programs

7/5/25 – 7/19/25
7/12/25 – 7/26/25

3-Week Programs

7/5/25 – 7/26/25
7/12/25 – 8/2/25

4-Week Programs

7/5/25 – 8/2/25 (wk 4 is “off-program”) – see FAQs
7/12/25 – 8/9/25 (wk 3 & 4 are “off-program”) – see FAQs

5-Week Programs

7/5/25 – 8/9/25 (wks 4 & 5 are “off-program”) – see FAQs
7/12/25 – 8/16/25 (wks 3 – 5 are “off-program”) – see FAQs

6-Week Programs

7/5/25 – 8/16/25 (wks 4 – 6 are “off-program”) – see FAQs

*Click here to check out the EC/CR combo program dates

View pricing

Costa Rica Spanish Immersion - Poas Volcano

Costa Rica Spanish Immersion Trip - Manuel Antonio beach

Costa Rica Spanish Immersion Volunteer Group

Costa Rica Spanish Immersion - Manuel Antonio park

General Program Itinerary:

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
Return from Optional Excursion	Volunteer orientation	Volunteer prep	Volunteer work	Morning excursion	Optional Excursion	Optional Excursion
Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm	Spanish classes 1-5 pm -cooking class	Spanish classes 1-5 pm	Spanish classes 1-5 pm – dance class	Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Monday

Return from Optional Excursion
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Tuesday

Volunteer orientation
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm
– Cooking class

Wednesday

Volunteer prep
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5p

Thursday

Volunteer work
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm
– Dance class

Friday

Morning excursion
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Saturday and Sunday

Optional Excursion

First Saturday & Sunday

Saturday: arrive in country, get settled with your host family
Sunday: town tour, orientation, meet trip leaders and participants

Mon – Fri Afternoons

Small group Spanish classes from 1-5pm

Tue – Fri Mornings

Community outreach work.

Weekends

Explore the country! We put together a weekend trip every weekend. You are free to join us, stay with your host family, or DIY a weekend excursion!

Next steps

Save your spot

Request info

Schedule a call

Back to top

“Part of the reason I came was to try to improve what little bit of Spanish I had, it’s improved.”

Charles

“Age isn’t an issue, if you’re interested, sign up for Common Ground. They have a great preparation program. Just come over here and have a great time!”

Tamara

It’s been a really great experience! The excursions have been great, my teacher was awesome and very patient.

Rose

ECUADOR IMMERSION PROGRAM DETAILS

Ecuador Spanish for Adults Immersion

Highlights

1 – 2 weeks in length
Consider 10 days to have a full weekend to explore
Live like a local with a host family (hotel / hostel options too)
20hrs/week of Spanish classes
Optional 1:1 private lessons
Tuesday – Thursday outreach projects
Explore local markets, Inca ruins, national parks, the Andes, soak in volcanic hot springs, mitad del mundo & más
Include your family or significant other on a post-trip vacation to the Galapagos Islands
Interprofessional mix of fellow travelers
Fly in to Quito (UIO) with domestic flight to Cuenca or overland travel with us on optional weekend excursion

Location
Based in Cuenca, Ecuador

Price

View trip cost and inclusions

Ecuador Immersion Trip details - Common Ground International

2025 Dates

1-Week Programs

6/14/25 – 6/21/25
6/21/25 – 6/28/25

2-Week Programs

6/14/25 – 6/28/25
6/21/25 – 7/5/25

3-Week Programs

6/14/25 – 7/5/25

4-Week Programs

6/14/25 – 7/12/25 (wk 4 is “off-program” – see FAQs | consider combo trip)

5-Week Programs

6/14/25 – 7/19/25 (wks 4 & 5 are “off-program” – see FAQs | consider combo trip)

6-Week Programs

6/14/25 – 7/26/25 (wks 4 – 6 are “off-program” – see FAQs | consider combo trip)

*Click here to check out the combo EC/CR program dates

View pricing

Ingapirca ruins - Ecuador Immersion Trip - Common Ground International

Cuenca City - Ecuador Spanish Immersion Trip - Common Ground International

Ecuador Medical Spanish Immersion Trip Group - Common Ground International

Ecuador Spanish Immersion Volunteer Work

Group - Ecuador Teacher's Immersion Trip - Common Ground International

General Program Itinerary:

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
Morning excursion	Volunteer orientation	Volunteer prep	Volunteer work	Morning cultural activity	Optional Excursion	Optional Excursion
Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm	Spanish classes 1-5 pm	Spanish classes 1-5 pm	Spanish classes 1-5 pm	Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Monday

Morning excursion
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Wednesday

Volunteer prep
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Tuesday

Volunteer orientation
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Thursday

Volunteer work
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Friday

Morning cultural activity
Lunch
Spanish classes 1-5 pm

Saturday and Sunday

Optional Excursion

First Saturday & Sunday

Saturday: arrive in country, get settled with your host family
Sunday: town tour, orientation, meet trip leaders and participants
Optional: Weekend excursion before programs begins (Quito city tour, Mitad del Mundo, Avenida de los volcanes, Baños y más)

Mon – Fri Afternoons

Small group Spanish classes from 1-5pm

Tue – Fri Mornings

Community outreach work.

Weekends

Take time to explore the country! We put together a weekend trip every weekend. You are free to join us, stay with your host family, or DIY a weekend excursion!

Ecuador Spanish Immersion Program Itinerary

Next steps

Save your spot

Request info

Schedule a call

Back to top

3-6 Week COMBO IMMERSION PROGRAMS IN ECUADOR & COSTA RICA

Combine both countries

2025 Dates

Ecuador

Costa Rica

3-Week Programs

2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

1 wk CR:
07/05/25 – 07/12/25

4-Week Programs

3 wks EC:
06/14/25 – 07/05/25
2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

1 wk CR:
07/05/25 – 07/12/25
2 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 07/19/25

5-Week Programs

3 wks EC:
06/14/25 – 07/05/25
2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

2 wk CR:
07/05/25 – 07/19/25
3 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 07/26/25

6-Week Programs

3 wks EC:
06/14/25 – 07/05/25
2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

3 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 07/26/25
4 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 08/02/25

3-Week Programs

Ecuador

Costa Rica

2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

1 wk CR:
7/05/25 – 07/12/25

4-Week Programs

Ecuador

Costa Rica

3 wks EC:
06/14/25 – 07/05/25
2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

1 wk CR:
07/05/25 – 07/12/25
2 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 07/19/25

5-Week Programs

Ecuador

Costa Rica

3 wks EC:
06/14/25 – 07/05/25
2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

2 wk CR:
07/05/25 – 07/19/25
3 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 07/26/25

6-Week Programs

Ecuador

Costa Rica

3 wks EC:
06/14/25 – 07/05/25
2 wks EC:
06/21/25 – 07/05/25

3 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 07/26/25
4 wks CR:
07/05/25 – 08/02/25

*Check out the Costa Rica or Ecuador programs

Save your spot!

This program fills on a first come, first served basis. Reserve a spot on the trip – no obligation – no credit card, just 30 days to help you coordinate your schedule!

The ratings and reviews and testimonials for this Adult Spanish Immersion Trip speak for themselves

Check our testimonials

Spanish Immersion for Adults

Rating

5.00 out of 5 based on 32 customer ratings

It’s been a really great experience! The excursions have been great, my teacher was awesome and very patient.

Tanah

All of our programs include basic travel medical insurance with trip interruption, delays, lost bags, etc. Here is the standard description of coverage for your included travel insurance plan.

If you have any uncertainties about your upcoming adventure, it might be a good idea to consider additional travel insurance coverage. If you’re looking for a Cancel for Any Reason policy, we suggest you shop for it here:

Adult Spanish Immersion travel insurance

Diversity and Inclusivity on Spanish Immersion

Our mission of Impacting Communities Through Language extends to ALL travelers and learners regardless of age, gender identity, physical ability, race, religion, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status.

Learn more

Spanish Immersion Program FAQs

What happens in case of an emergency?

Our trip leaders will seek the attention of a health care worker and make decisions along with parent/guardians/emergency contacts back in the US. We will be in touch with parent/guardians/emergency contacts as soon as possible. We will also help the participant initiate the process for claims on the travel/medical insurance policy that was purchased.

What does “Off Program” mean?

You can travel with Common Ground at any time of the year. That said, there are approximately 10 – 12 weeks a year where we gather groups of adults, students and families and create larger programs that include: volunteer projects, planned weekend excursions and day to day interactions with our USA-based leadership team. We refer to these dates as “on-program”. Off-Program refers to the dates during the rest of the year when there are no groups traveling with you. Off-Program travel is a more independent, can be more immersive, and doesn’t usually include volunteer projects. If you choose to travel off-program, we’ll work with you to customize an itinerary that fits you perfectly and balances your class time with cultural activities and a wonderful host family experience.

What if I have a food allergy or dietary restriction?

Usually this is not an issue. We have several host families that can accommodate to food allergies and dietary restrictions. Please let your trip coordinator know ahead of time so we can prepare for this accommodation.

What if my host family does not work out and I need to switch?

If there is an issue with your host family, trip leaders will be very involved and be able to make a quick switch to find a family that is a better match for you.

Will I have access to the internet?

Yes. Year after year more and more host families have Wi-Fi in their homes. Additionally you are able to connect to Wi-Fi at the language school. There are also Internet cafes in the center of town that you can use for a minimal price.

What type of preparation should I expect to do before going on this trip?

You will be involved in at least 3 virtual pre-departure meetings beginning 1-2 months before your departure. During these meetings you will have a chance to meet the other participants, learn specific trip details and itineraries, start working in groups on your volunteer projects, and a number of other things.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica and Ecuador?

From about May/June through October/November it is rainy season. The sun may shine in the morning (and it will be humid), but it will certainly rain in the afternoon (but it’s usually not a cold rain). December through April is dry season. It will be sunny, humid, and may rain here and there.

What time zone is Costa Rica and Ecuador?

October – March Costa Rica is on Central Time. April – September it is on Mountain Time. October – March Ecuador is on Eastern time, April – September Ecuador is on Central Time.

How safe are Costa Rica & Ecuador?

This is actually the #1 reason we chose to have our Spanish Immersion Programs in Costa Rica and Ecuador. Costa Rica has a long history of peacefulness and political stability, and it hosts over 1.5 million tourists a year. Tourism is a very large portion of the country’s economy, which means that in general tourists are treated very well. For many years Ecuador has attracted a great deal of international attention and tourism to its Galapagos islands and the interior of the country is stable and peaceful as well. One of the biggest factors contributing to your safety while on Spanish immersion with Common Ground is that you’re traveling with a group, and you have a Common Ground leader with you. We’re there by your side day to day to help you keep your focus on improving your Spanish.

Where do we stay while on Spanish Immersion in Costa Rica & Ecuador?

The bulk of the time you spend in Costa Rica is in a small town called Santo Domingo de Heredia. This town is about 20 minutes N of the capital city San Jose. The language school where you will walk to every morning is about 600m south of the downtown area on the main road. In Ecuador we stay in host families as well. Cuenca is a beautiful colonial city surrounded by beautiful mountains.

What are the host family homes like?

You will be staying in a middle-class home setting. You can expect the home and your bedroom to be small. Your bed probably won’t be as comfortable as your bed is here in the US. Most homes have tile floors, no carpet. Most families do not have dish washers nor clothes driers. You may be given a couple different keys for the home: one for the exterior gate off the street, and another for the actual doors to the house.

Will my host family speak English?

Your host families may speak a little English, particularly if they have school aged children. However, we encourage them to not let you know. The best way for you to continue learning Spanish is to have to use it!

Will I have another student from the trip in the same family with me?

This depends. In Ecuador you may have another participant from our program staying with you in your host family. Usually in Costa Rica you are paired 1:1 with a host family. When possible we like to limit the number of students to one per family. This increases your opportunities to speak Spanish. If you’re traveling with a sibling we’ll make an effort to place you in neighboring host families so that you’re at least close to each other. If you’re traveling with your spouse for some or all of the time, then yes we can place you in the same family.

How are host families chosen?

Having a student is a significant boost to our host families’ income. Because there are more families requesting students in the town than we have need for, we are selective in who we employ to host you. The host families that our students stay with are screened for various things:

– Criminal and/or questionable social activity
– Suitability of the living quarters that you will occupy
– General “likeability” and friendliness
– Availability of a family member at the home during the hours you are scheduled to be there
– Age and sex of the family’s children. We would not place a teen girl with a family that has teen boys for example.
– Proximity to the language school

Will I be able to go to church?

Certainly, there aren’t a ton of different faith options in town, but there is a nice Catholic church in the middle of town with several service times throughout the week, an evangelical church close to the town center center and several other faith worship options in nearby towns.

Will I be able to shower every day?

Yes, you will be able to shower every day. There is no guarantee that your shower will have warm water, but you’ll certainly have access to a shower.

Is the water safe to drink?

You can drink water from the tap almost anywhere in Costa Rica. In Ecuador you need to drink bottled water. If you’re on our program and we’re headed to a place where water is not safe to drink, we’ll certainly let you know and have you get bottled water.

Do you have payment plans?

Absolutely. Most of the time the program cost is spread out over 3 payments. If you need other specific arrangements, we can probably be flexible with you. If you’d like to make just one payment, that’s fine too. Acceptable forms of payment are Visa, Master, Discover, Check and Cash.

Will I receive a packing list for my Immersion Program?

Yes. Shortly after your register, you will receive a list of clothes, personal items, donations you need to begin collecting, and other miscellaneous items to pack as soon as we receive your application.

How long does it take for a passport?

Typically 60 – 90 days.

Will my cell phone work while I’m on Spanish Immersion?

Some do, not all. This depends on your service provider and your specific phone, so check with your service provider first. If your specific phone isn’t capable, most service providers have world phone rental options. This isn’t usually the most economical way to call home when you’re in Costa Rica or Ecuador. You can purchase local chips you arrive to the country. We recommend using Skype, What’sApp or FaceTime. If you won’t have a computer with you, your Common Ground trip leader always will and you’re welcome to use our computers to call home.

Will we have the opportunity to exchange money?

Absolutely. Of course it’s always a good idea to have a little cash on you in Colones (Costa Rican currency) or USD for Ecuador (Ecuador is on the US dollar), but honestly you don’t need much right away when traveling with a Common Ground Spanish Immersion group. After you get settled into your host family, we’ll make sure you have the opportunity to get local currency right away. We do not recommend exchanging you money at the airport as they generally have unfavorable exchange rates. Credit & Debit cards are accepted throughout the country, and ATM machines are more and more common every year. The ATM is convenient, and usually provides a good exchange rate. It is important to notify your bank that you will be traveling abroad, and you’ll probably want to inquire about any foreign transaction and/or currency fees.

What is meant when referring to private in-country transportation in the application form?

You will most likely have the same guide and driver for your group the whole time you are on the program with Common Ground, and our destination is further than walking distance. In the mornings we will head to our volunteer site together (either walking or on the private bus). In the afternoons we will leave the outreach work site and head to the language school. During the weekend excursions we will certainly be on the private bus with guide and driver chaperoning our travels.

What is the proposed tip amount for guide and driver?

A good rule of thumb is $2-$3/day that our driver is shuttling you around, and $3-$5/day that a guide is leading you. They work very hard for you, and we take great pleasure in thanking them generously at the end of our programs.

What if my family, spouse or partner wants to join me for part of the program?

Many spouses, fiancées, friends and other family members join our groups for a portion of the program. We’re happy to arrange this for you with both your host family, and any private hotel accommodations that you require while on vacation portions of the program. If this is something you’re considering, we just ask that you let us know early on so that we can make appropriate arrangements for you. This is not a last minute decision that you can make, it does require special arrangements, so we ask that you notify us at the time you submit your application.

How much extra spending money should I plan on bringing?

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to not budget enough money for additional expenses. The challenge is that this is a question that depends heavily on your tastes and the specifics of the program you’re applying for. To give you an idea of the typical expenses you may be responsible for: a normal lunch will usually run $7.00-$12.00; dinner runs $10.00 – $15.00. Optional excursions are something you should also plan for, but each program is very different. These excursions really add some amazing experiences to your Spanish Immersion Program. Tips excluded (see tips FAQ question), if you were to not include any additional excursions, and live as frugally as possible for the time you’re there, you should plan on $150 for a 2 week program and $300 for the 4 week program.
The best approach however, is to take a look at the specific itinerary for your program that highlights the expenses you’re responsible for, and begin planning your additional expenses accordingly.

Do I need any special immunizations or take any other preventative measures?

Of course you need to be current on your standard immunizations before you travel on Spanish immersion. When traveling in Central and South America there is variation risks of Typhoid, Yellow Fever, and Hepatitis A and B. We suggest you consult both the CDC website for Costa Rica and CDC website for Ecuador and check with your primary care physician to prepare for your Spanish Immersion in Costa Rica or Ecuador.

25 thoughts on “Spanish Immersion for Adults in Costa Rica & Ecuador”

Chip
March 23, 2023 at 1:22 pm

Would one have access to the Internet in a host family? I ask because I would like still need to have access to my work (and students) during the trip. This would be a factor that determines whether I can/cannot participate.

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  March 23, 2023 at 3:56 pm
  
  Hi Chip, great question! Yes you’ll have regular access to internet at your host family, at language school, and at various cafes around town. Staying connected shouldn’t be a problem.
  
  Reply
Sharise Cunningham
December 28, 2022 at 1:40 pm

Hiya, asking here since I missed the informational zoom: I’m looking at the Adult program for two weeks for July 1, 2023. Since that IS a Saturday, which you recommend, is there any particular time to arrive by (e.g., not prior to 6am, but before 6pm)? Is transport from airport provided? Can we choose the volunteer option? Do/can we choose whether our stay is family/hostel/hotel? When planning departure; should we book return flight for the last day of the program, or a subsequent day? Do we pay in full upon reg, or is deposit-based? Sorry for all the Qs but look forward to your reply and thanks in advance.

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  December 30, 2022 at 1:44 pm
  Hi Sharise, thanks for the note! We’d love to work with you this coming summer starting July 1st. Here are some quick answers to your questions:
  1. July 1 is a travel day, make your flights to SJO and try to arrive before 8p if possible. That will be perfect timing for your host family to pick you up from the airport
  2. We coordinate the volunteer projects, and they are group projects. The are all “language rich” meaning that they require you to communicate a lot with local community members. They are often educational in nature. We provide more details as we approach the travel dates and have time to coordinate the specifics
  3. Your program includes lodging with a host family, this is the default lodging option because it’s best for your language growth. If you’d like to stay in an apartment, hostel or hotel, that’s totally fine, we will help you coordinate that.
  4. There is only a $500 deposit required to register. You can make payments at your convenience throughout the weeks and months before your trip. You need to be paid in full 30 days prior to travel.
  Hope it works out for you to join us this coming summer! Cheers,
  
  Reply
  1. Sharise Cunningham
    January 1, 2023 at 10:50 pm
    
    Fantastic, thanks for the answers. Look for my registration soon.
    
    Reply
Pamela Wright
November 28, 2022 at 11:54 pm

This looks like an interesting program but I have some questions. Please describe the volunteer work a little more and how would it be fulfilling or challenging?

I can’t seem to find the cost for one or two or three weeks engaging in your program. Am I required to put down a $500 deposit in order to find out how much this costs? Thanks.

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  November 29, 2022 at 10:04 am
  
  Hey Pamela, thanks for your interest in our Spanish Immersion trips! Here is the link to the costs that you’re wondering about. And the volunteer work is educational in nature, not physical labor in nature. This assures that we’re always using Spanish communicatively to help local underserved communities. Our specific projects are usually defined a few weeks before travel after we’ve had a chance to consult with the local organizations that we support and they’ve expressed what their most pressing current needs are.
  
  Reply
Chris Kocinski
October 14, 2022 at 1:20 pm

Hi Rory and Leslie

I am looking ahead to next year and I see there is an adult immersion trip beginning in January 2023. I’m wondering about any Covid protocols that are required. It seems to me it might be very difficult to learn Spanish if the teacher and students need to be masked. Maybe it is too soon to know since this pandemic is ever changing. Thank you

Reply
Jane
June 20, 2022 at 6:28 am

This looks like so much fun! I just started learning Spanish about 2 years ago, and I’m wondering how well I need to be able to communicate before I embark on a trip like this. It would be a great goal to set! Thanks.

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  June 20, 2022 at 3:05 pm
  
  Hey Jane, there is a long answer to your question but the short answer is this: The more you know before you travel, the faster you learn while traveling. On the flip side, if you’re a beginner, there is no better or faster way to get started with Spanish. The important expectation is that regardless of your level, learning Spanish is a commitment that you stick with for some time. Cheers!
  
  Reply
Julie
October 1, 2021 at 6:50 pm

In the event that the host family situation does not work out, is it an option to be moved to a hotel?

Also, I would be traveling with the adult or teacher program but may possibly take my daughter who is 14. How or what would the accommodations be for the both of us?

Reply
1. Leslie Foster
  October 5, 2021 at 2:55 pm
  
  Hola Julie! Thanks for your comment and I will be responding to your other email shortly! Here are some answers to your questions…
  1- Yes, it is an option.
  2- Great! There is an option for you and your daughter to share a host family. You would each most likely have your own bedroom, and share a bathroom.
  
  Reply
Monica Ionis
September 17, 2021 at 9:47 am

HI Rory,
I am interested in joining the Adult Immersion trip in June. Is it possible to have one of my high school aged kids join me? They are both learning Spanish. Could we still stay with a host family together?
Thanks,
Monica

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  October 24, 2021 at 7:06 am
  
  Hey Monica, sorry for the delay in responding… yes it’s absolutely possible for your high schooler to join you on program and in the same host family – and it would be tons of fun!
  
  Reply
Desiree Navarro
August 26, 2021 at 8:37 pm

Is there an option of staying in a hotel rather than with a host family in the Costa Rica program?

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  August 26, 2021 at 9:36 pm
  
  Yes Desiree, there is that option! You miss a lot of conversational opportunities, but if you feel strongly about it we’ll be glad to support your decision and get you set up in a local hotel. Email me if you want to set up a time to chat.
  
  Reply
Chris
July 22, 2021 at 3:44 pm

Hi there

If I wanted to go to the Costa Rica program for 6 weeks, will every week look the same as the last one or will I be taught different things in class so I am advancing my Spanish over the 6 week period? Will I be placed in a specific class with others at my same level? Will we be going on the same excursions every week since there may be new students arriving each week or because I’m there for 6 weeks, there will be different opportunities to explore the country? That’s all the questions I can think of right now. Thank you so much.

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  July 22, 2021 at 4:43 pm
  Great questions Chris! Here are some quick answers for you:
  - You’re definitely in a class of peers at your level and learning new things each week advancing sequentially (and exponentially) with your Spanish
  - The excursions are different every week, so you’ll experience new places every weekend 🙂
  We’d love the chance to travel with you, Chris! Let me know if you can think of any other questions. Cheers, Rory.
  
  Reply
Kevin Rencher
April 29, 2021 at 9:00 pm

My family wants to learn Spanish in equacdor. June 22-july19, 2021.

Reply
1. Leslie Foster
  May 4, 2021 at 11:23 am
  
  Hi Kevin, thanks for your message. We are not offering our Ecuador trip this summer. But we are hopeful for summer 2022. This summer all our programs in Costa Rica are being offered. Here is information about those: https://commongroundinternational.com/spanish-immersion/family-spanish-immersion/
  
  Reply
maryame harkani
January 23, 2021 at 3:21 am

i’m just 16 years old , can i join by myself?

Reply
1. Rory Foster
  January 23, 2021 at 5:22 pm
  
  Yes Maryame – welcome!
  
  Reply
Carol Mangold
January 5, 2019 at 3:32 pm

Is it possible to start on Feb. 2nd or Feb. 9th for two or three weeks or is the entire spring session based on a Jan 26th start date? If the program is structured so that a Jan 26th date is required, would it be possible to arrive on Sunday, the 27th? Arrival on the 26th would present a problem for me.

Reply
1. Rory
  January 5, 2019 at 3:56 pm
  
  Hi Carol, great to hear from you… happy new year! Yes we have consolidated the winter program to the January 26 start date. That said, if you’re able to arrive the 27th or 28th, that will be very easy to integrate you into the start of the program. I’ll send you an email with an update. Rory
  
  Reply
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Spanish Immersion for Adults in Costa Rica & Ecuador

Costa Rica

Costa Rica Spanish Immersion

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Location

2025 Dates

24/7 Support

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Possible to combine with Ecuador programs

Ecuador

Ecuador Spanish Immersion

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Location

2025 Dates

24/7 Support

Price

Possible to combine with Costa Rica programs

Medical Spanish Immersion Trip

Teachers Spanish Immersion Trip

Small Group Conversational Spanish classes

Lodging with a local host family

Weekend Adventures

Participating in volunteer projects

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COSTA RICA & ECUADOR SPANISH IMMERSION FOR ADULTS

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A deeper understanding of the culture

Participate in relevant, sustainable and language-rich community engagement projects

Explore the beauty of Costa Rica and Ecuador

Learn outside your comfort zone

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Costa Rica Spanish for Adults Immersion

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Ecuador Spanish for Adults Immersion

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3-Week Programs

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3-6 Week COMBO IMMERSION PROGRAMS IN ECUADOR & COSTA RICA

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