Central America Semester Spanish Immersion, Culture, Service Learning and Expeditions Through Mexico, Belize, Guatamala & Costa Rica

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Central America Semester Spanish immersion, culture, service learning and expeditions through Mexico, Belize, Guatamala & Costa Rica

“This program challenged me to open my mind, push myself out of my comfort zone, and learn to actively support others. This program was life changing in more ways than I can count. Getting through the ups and downs as a group created a bond between group members that will forever be unbreakable. Through these experiences, I simultaneously learned a lot about myself. I now feel more confident solving problems and find that I have an overall more positive outlook on the world around me. It is true that a small group of people can change the world, and after completing a semester with Pacific Discovery, I fully understand why this is true. Thank you infinitely, for this experience.” Amelie Rey

Freecall 1 800 655 3415 www.pacificdiscovery.org Pacific Discovery Program Design

Our programs are more than simply a travel, time-out or study abroad experience. Each is instead an overland journey of discovery, where students are immersed in a facilitated learning environment, designed to maximize the educational and life-skills potential.

On the program we have two goals for our students:

Learning about the people, culture, religion, Providing a framework for students to 1 history, environments and issues of the region 2 learn about themselves, to push their the program travels through. Then relating boundaries, question their assumptions, to these experiences to bigger picture concepts stimulate problem solving and inquiry skills, of globalization, human rights, environment, and to gain leadership and group skills. sustainability and ethics.

Our programs are as much a journey of personal development as they are a physical journey, and students are regularly encouraged to reflect and think about their values, goals and what they wish to gain from the program experience and from their lives in general.

Pre-program from ‘what are my core values?’ to ‘how do I be a responsible citizen in our globalized world?’ Prior to program start, students are asked to articulate their goals At the end of the program, students give a presentation to their for the program – this is personal and unique to each individual group summarizing how they were challenged, what they learned, if group member. Students are given a suggested outline of skills and they’ve grown, and how they intend to apply their learning to their competencies that they can choose to focus upon. lives moving forward.

During program Transfer and follow up

At program orientation, students discuss their identified goals in a Towards the end of the program, students are asked to write a letter one on one meeting with the program instructors. Over the course to themselves imagining where they want to be in six months time. of the program instructors mentor each student, using ideas, tools These letters are collected and mailed to them six months after and strategies to help achieve their goals as well as support overall program conclusion, helping reinforce the learning that has occurred. growth. After the program, students are invited to join an alumni Facebook Students are encouraged to journal during the program to reflect group where they remain in contact with others who have had similar upon their experience and better define their learning. They also experiences. This community supports the continued journey of meet as a whole group to explore big topics and questions, ranging personal development after the Pacific Discovery program experience.

© Pacific Discovery / pacificdiscovery.org / Tel 1 800 655 3415 / [email protected] / page 1 Each of our programs incorporate the following six core program components. These six interdependent components, provide immense opportunity for students to learn about themselves, to push their boundaries, question their assumptions, to stimulate problem solving and inquiry skills.

1. Educational focus 4. Ethical travel and sustainability

Our programs are experiential education programs, meaning that Travel and the realities of ‘life on the road’ teaches a lot of valuable learning is hands-on and tangible. For example, students will learn lessons: how to communicate and relate to people from different about a country’s history and culture by immersing themselves in it, cultures; how to be happy with few possessions and a simple life; meeting local people and hearing life stories. how to overcome temporary discomfort. Travel ultimately exposes students to the myriad possibilities and realities in the world and in Experience on its own does not translate into learning. But learning their lives. This allows for personal growth and a clarity in students’ from your experiences is important. To encourage ‘learning from passion and direction as they do this important learning away from experience’ our program instructors facilitate opportunities for the expectations of family, friends, and peers. students to regularly reflect upon their experiences, and provide Our goal is that students will learn the ‘Tao of Travel’ – how to historical, cultural, geographical and environmental background plan; how to keep safe; what to take; and how to be comfortable so that personal experience can be connected to a broader and find what you need in an unfamiliar place. By the end of a understanding of place. program, we expect most students will have the skills necessary to travel safely anywhere on earth. The educational component of our programs is Students will also gain a deeper understanding of ethics and multi-disciplinary and covers: sustainability through learning respect for local customs; developing meaningful cross-cultural relationships; learning minimum-impact • Host country: history, politics, culture, geography, environment, grassroots travel techniques and coming to understand social and environmental and social issues. ecological issues on a deeper level. Students will learn that the • Broader themes: globalization, development, environmentalism, world is both infinitely large, full of possibility, and yet also very religion, ethics and sustainability. small, in that our personal choices affect all living things. • How to travel: how to plan and keep safe, the realities of life on the road, ethical and sustainable travel. 5. Outdoors and wilderness exploration • Outdoor education: learning the soft and hard skills of a number of outdoor activities, such as camping, trekking, cycling, canoeing We use the wilderness as a medium to take students outside their (varies by program). comfort zones and challenge them. Personal growth and self- confidence increases through overcoming obstacles and challenges • Group skills: how to work with a group, communication and trust. presented during the program. • Personal Development: New skills and interests, resilience, self- Immersion in the wilderness is an opportunity for students reliance, self-reflection, self-discovery and personal direction. to become grounded, teaches appreciation for wild places and provides us the opportunity to explore local environmental issues and relate these issues to global environmental themes. 2. Service learning – volunteer and community A variety of outdoor or adventure activities are included in our service projects programs, such as back packing, rafting, canoeing, rock climbing, snorkeling, mountain biking etc. These activities require physical Service-learning elements built into our programs allow students effort, mastery of technique, teamwork and trust between members to really immerse themselves in a place and share an experience of the group, and immersion in the outdoor environment. with local people, bridging the gap that often exists between visitor Pacific Discovery takes a ‘challenge by choice’ approach to the and host. We work hard to ensure that the work our groups do adventure components of our programs. Adventure activities and are grounded in community needs and vision and are executed instruction are aimed at the novice/beginner level, and no prior through local leadership. Additionally, volunteer work helps build experience in any of the activities is required. However we are able self-confidence and self-belief as students learn new skills and to facilitate more challenge for anyone who is experienced in a take on new roles. Service-learning components vary by program. particular discipline. Students do need to have fitness at a level that Examples undertaken by students are: habitat restoration and they are able to comfortably hike for 4+ hours with a back pack. species monitoring; assisting local students with English-language development; and improving school environments in poor rural communities. 6. Personal and leadership development By taking students out of their comfort zone and challenging them 3. Cultural immersion physically, culturally, mentally, and emotionally, we encourage students to gain confidence. To foster this, we provide a supportive Our students are not travelling in a ‘bubble’ separated from local group environment. Throughout the program, students are given people; instead we immerse students in the local culture, through leadership opportunities from facilitating reflection to coordinating home-stays, volunteer projects, and language study. Students the daily schedule. Facilitation, reflection, and feedback allows learn empathy for other cultures and build bridges of shared students to further develop their skills. This is strengthened by understanding. creating an intentional learning community where the group gathers to make meaning of what they’ve seen and apply it to broader global themes as well as their own lives.

hallenge yourself on this inspiring 10-week experiential gap at Tortuga, Costa Rica and investigate sustainable agriculture and Csemester journeying through the astounding cultural and its importance in developing communities on the unique isthmus environmental diversity, ancient ruins, and spectacular land and of Isla de Ometepe. After soaking in the relaxing hot springs of the seascapes of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Costa Rica. Volcano Arenal and learning about environmental sustainability on a permaculture farm, we finish this incredible adventure on the This program combines immersive Spanish language study, hands- tranquil Pacific coast beaches of biodiverse Costa Rica. on service learning and permaculture projects, and challenging expedition elements - diving, trekking, surfing. This program has an experiential focus - students immerse in Spanish, get involved in service learning projects, have opportunities Visit ancient Mayan ruins and step into a mysterious, thrilling universe for meaningful connections with local people, gain knowledge of while discovering a culture that harks back 4,000 years – the greatest Central America’s history, societies and environments, experience pre-Columbian civilization – and retains its vibrancy to this day. In sustainable development, push personal boundaries and develop Mexico, investigate otherworldly Tulum, perched above the crashing their leadership skills. surf; find out why Chichén Itzá is one of the new seven wonders of the world. Take a scuba diving course in Cozumel, Mexico and Facilitated by our supportive and experienced Program Instructors, discover the dramatic and diverse world below the surface of the this is an excellent choice for students wanting to develop personal Caribbean, the “Great Mayan Reef”. Explore the lost temples of Tikal, and leadership skills, have new experiences and challenge soaring above the Guatemalan jungle canopy and take a dip in the themselves, be immersed in Spanish, in unique environments, and majestic Lake Atitlan, surrounded by volcanoes. Immerse yourself learn about sustainability. in world of yoga, zen and mindfulnes during a week long stay at a Guatamalan yoga center where you embrace the feeling of total This gap semester program is suitable for high school graduates, health and happiness. Volunteer with sloths, monkeys and other gap year students, university students and graduates, ideally 18 – 24 Costa Rican animals at the rescue centre, supporting these beautiful years old. Optional transferable academic credit is available on this animals recover and thrive. Learn how to surf in the Pacific swell program. Learn more about college credits here. This program can be combined with Summer, Fall, or Spring program options in other regions of the world (New Zealand & Australia, South America, Southeast Asia, Nepal & Tibet) for an in-depth and enriching global gap year.

Program Dates & Program Start / Finish

Spring 2020 Feb-Apr Start in Cancun, Mexico / Finish in San Jose Costa Rica Fall 2020 Sept-Nov Start in Cancun, Mexico / Finish in San Jose Costa Rica Check our website here for confirmed dates for the coming season

Program Tuition for 2020 is USD$12,500.00

Week 1: Orientation - Ruins of Tulum Highlights After meeting each other in the Cancun airport, we’ll head south • 2 weeks of Spanish language immersion – all levels catered for: down the spectacular Caribbean coast to the ancient Mayan city • Immersion 1: Tulum, Mexico: Spanish language instruction of Tulum. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the sea, it is one of and homestay (in pairs) the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya. While we enjoy its brilliant turquoise-blue waters and crushed-coral white sands, • Immersion 2: Quetzaltenango, Guatemala: Spanish language we’ll spend some time getting to know each other during our instruction and homestay (in pairs) 3-day orientation. Our time will focus on getting to know each • Service learning projects: other and creating a positive and reflective group culture to • Project 1: Coral restoration service learning in Cozumel, Mexico support us in realizing our program goals. • Project 2: Permaculture service learning in Rancho Mastatal, a sustainability education centre in Costa Rica. In Tulum, we’ll also explore the incredible Mayan ruins along the coast, take a dip in some Cenotes (limestone sinkholes), and • PADI open water diving certification off the coast of Mexico head inland to a Mayan ruin and one of the new seven wonders • 3-day catamaran sailing and camping adventure through Belize’s of the world, Chichén Itzá. Great Barrier Reef • A week at Doron Yoga Centre experiencing different styles Week 2: Spanish Immersion and Homestay of yoga, including Stand Up Paddle board (SUP) yoga, and practicing meditation. Our second week in Mexico, we take classes at a Spanish • Volunteering at the animal rescue centre in Costa Rica language school every morning Monday-Friday (15 hours) and • Explore ancient Mayan temples in the midst of the jungle in Tikal, stay (in pairs) with host families. Combining a homestay with Guatemala language lessons allows you to put your new skills to use while • Rugged and breathtaking 3-day trek from Quetzaltenango to gaining insight into the culture. You will live as the locals do – Lake Atitlán including enjoying the delicious comida at the local taquerias! • Hike and sunrise summit of Volcan Acatenango, overlooking the active Volcan Fuego in Guatemala Weeks 3: Diving and getting PADI qualified - • Surf camp on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica at Tortuga Surf Camp Conservation Service Learning project • Baby sloths and tranquil beaches in Costa Rica Week 3 is spent in the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, where • Exploring the gorgeous historic cities of Tulum and Antigu. you’ll splash around in the warm caribbean seas, experiencing • Informal lectures and discussions on history, culture, society and the joy of underwater exploration as we learn to dive. We will environment spend five days learning all there is to know to become a fully • Experiential core curriculum that pushes students to reflect certified diver, taking you from novice to pro! and ask questions of themselves, working towards a deeper Upon completion of your PADI training we spend a further three understanding of their values, identity, passions and purpose. days in this tropical paradise as we undertake our conservation • Very personalized and supportive small group experience – service learning. We get involved in a coral restoration program maximum 14 students where we learn about coral species and the challenges that the reef faces. We then spend time cleaning and planting coral in • Two experienced and inspiring Pacific Discovery Program the organisations coral nursery. This is an incredibly worthwhile Instructors supported by local guides and rewarding service learning project which will genuinely help

© Pacific Discovery / pacificdiscovery.org / Tel 1 800 655 3415 / [email protected] / page 4 Program Itinerary protect and preserve the health of the Cozumel National Park coral, Week 8: Animal Rescue Program Volunteering the second largest coral reef system in the world!

Week 4: Exploring Belize During week 8 we fly from Guatamala to Costa Rica where we will be undertaking our animal rescue volunteering! Located in Cebadilla, We depart Mexico by ferry to the famous port of San Pedro on this rescue centre is home to a variety of animals that were rescued La Isla Bonita, Ambergris Caye in Belize. We then take a boat to Caye from the illegal animal trade, which is unfortunately still functioning Caulker where we’ll depart on a 3-day catamaran adventure which in parts of the country. The goal is to help the animals recover from will allow us to snorkel throughsome of the lesser explored parts both physical and psychological wounds that have arisen from of the reef in between camping on beautiful, remote Caribbean their past suffering. During the stay we’ll support the centre with islands. volunteer work such as working in the animal kitchen, assisting with the sloth garden, helping with the compost and enriching their Back on the mainland, we’ll visit the Belize Zoo, a humane and homes. We’re sure that by the end of the week you’ll feel as at home educational halfway house and rehabilitation center for injured, at the centre as the animals, and won’t want to leave! orphaned and rescued jungle animals. No trip to Belize is complete without a cave adventure: touring stalagmites, stalactites, Mayan Week 9: Surf Camp - Tortuga cave paintings and ruins, human sacrifice remains, and swim-hiking through the underground network. From the animal rescue centre we make our way to Playa Jaco, for our four day surf camp! Jaco beach is known to be the “mecca Week 5-6: Spanish Immersion in of surfing” in Costa Rica, so rest assured you’re in a desirable location and in safe hands! Designed for surfers of all abilities, Quetzaltenango - Lake Atitlan the well established Tortuga Surf Camp provides lessons, core power workshops and personal coaching for all! The surf camp accommodation is well equipped for when you vacate the surf, with Quetzaltenango is big, like its name – which the locals kindly ample hang out spaces and a swimming pool. It’s located a short shorten to Xela (shell-ah), itself an abbreviation of the original walk from the town centre, enabling you to spend your down time K’iche’ Maya name, Xelajú. Nonetheless, it is an orderly, clean, and eating local food, soaking up the sun and exploring this awesome safe city. We will spend a week here living with host families (in beach town by foot. pairs) while attending daily Spanish lessons (20 hours).

After a fulfilling week, we’ll farewell our families in Xela and set out Week 10: Permaculture Project and Program on a 3-day trek to Lake Atitlan, meandering through cloud forests, Wrap, Costa Rica streams, corn fields, and small pueblos along the way. At Lake Atitlan, we rise early to watch the sunrise over the surrounding For the last week we base ourselves at an education center in the volcanoes in the small village of San Pedro de la Laguna. We’ll rural farming town of Mastatal situated on the edge of the last spend a couple of days on the lake doing various activities to stretch remaining virgin rainforest of Costa Rica’s beautiful Puriscal County. out our sore hiking muscles. It is a working permaculture farm, lodge, and community rooted in environmental sustainability, place-based livelihoods, and caring Week 7: Doron Yoga Retreat relationships. We will spend our last week here working alongside the community, furthering our permaculture education and learning skills such as fermentation and natural building. A small, serene village located on the shores of Lake Atitlan, We’ll then finish our adventure on the gorgeous beaches of Guatalama is where you’ll spend the next week of your program. Esterillos, along the Pacific Coast. After reflecting on our 10-week This yoga and zen centre will help you soothe your soul and is journey and enjoying some spectacular beach sunsets, it’s off to San a safe, comfortable environment for you to focus on personal Jose to fly home. ¡Buen Viaje! development. We spend 7 days and 6 nights experiencing different types of yoga, including meditation, providing you with the tools to become comfortable integrating zen into your own life. You’ll also get the chance to try SUP (stand up paddle boarding) yoga and visit local villages by boat where you can try delightful, local Guatemalan cuisine! The final day consist of an inspirational life coaching session, with a focus on self-empowerment. You’ll further develop your personal skills, understand how you function as a leader and explore what peace can look like in your own life.

Service Learning Project Overview Spanish Language Immersion Overview

We are partnering with Jorge Scuba Cozumel Coral Conservation in During our second week of the program, we will homestay in pairs Mexico, and Rancho Mastatal in Costa Rica, to offer authentic and with local families in Tulum, Mexico, who have been screened by rewarding community stay and service learning components in this the language school and are experienced at hosting international program. students. We spend our mornings (20 hours for the week) taking The coral conservation service learning we undertake in partnership immersive conversational Spanish Language classes. Class size with Jorge Scuba Cozumel restores coral reefs and promotes is usually maximum 5 students. Private lessons (one-to-one) are research into the marine life. This restoration project is vital to keep available for additional cost. the coral healthy in the Cozumel area where it faces threat from weather, pollution and human activities. During week six in Guatemala, we will homestay in pairs with Rancho Mastatal is a working permaculture farm that is closely local families in Quetzaltenango, who have been screened by the integrated with the local communities and focus on education language school and are experienced at hosting international in the areas of sustainability, renewable energy, natural building, students. We spend our mornings (20 hours for the week) taking community development. Our service learning revolves around immersive conversational Spanish Language classes. Class size natural building, permaculture, organic gardening, food preparation is usually maximum 5 students. Private lessons (one-to-one) are and cooking, agroforestry, medicinal plants, alternative cooking available for additional cost. technologies, fermentation, health and wellness, and community development. Partners in the community provide further You do not need to be proficient in Spanish to join this program opportunities for the study of tropical ecology, Spanish language, and these classes. Prior to Spanish language instruction you will and local life and culture. be tested, to ensure you are placed in a level appropriate for your ability and fluency. The language schools cater to all levels, from Expeditions Overview beginner through to experienced Spanish speakers.

The program contains three multi-day outdoor expeditions (diving, trekking and surfing). The purpose of these expeditions is to teach “I highly recommend you choose Pacific Discovery to participants the practical skills needed to overcome the natural see the world, and have memories with new friends challenges specific to each activity and more importantly to teach soft-skills…including lateral thinking, initiative, leadership, decision- to last a lifetime. This experience was by far the most making, and teamwork. These activities introduce a broad range of memorable two months of my life. I experienced external challenges requiring participants to overcome obstacles and new cultures, and was able to share some of my deal appropriately with a given situation. Through this, participants culture with local people through the homestays. will experience a great deal of personal growth, gaining confidence The program instructors were amazing! They always in themselves and their abilities in the outdoors. Each participant had smiles on their faces, were always prepared, and is encouraged to take a leadership role while on the expeditions, they made the experience 10x better.” by organizing and delegating daily tasks. The expeditions and their activities have been selected because of their suitability for Tanner Gariepy engendering personal growth and leadership skills.

Academic Credit Options

If you are interested in earning optional academic credit while on a Pacific Discovery program, credit option available for this program are below. Refer to our website for course outlines, enrollment procedure, and costs. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us by clicking here, or check out more information on our website here.

Portland State University: As an accredited member of the Gap Year Association (USA), credit is available to any student on a Pacific Discovery semester program, through Portland State University (PSU). Full details about courses available and costs can be found via the link above. PSU is an accredited institution and credit may be transferred to your university or college so long as they approve it – please check/confirm this with your academic advisor in advance.

Seattle Central College: Credit is available through the Seattle Central College Office of Cooperative Education and Service Learning, for individuals who wish to earn credit for a variety of travel experiences. Most courses can be taken for 5 or 10 quarter credits and a maximum of 20 credits can be taken per quarter (or maximum 10 credits per summer program). Seattle Central is an accredited institution and credit may be transferable to your university or college – please check this with your academic advisor in advance.

Independent or Field Studies Credit through your own college or university Contact your own academic advisor or professor to discuss options available to you on this program.

Program Tuition 2020 is USD $12,500.00 the flight confirmation email from Pacific Discovery, with the program flight requirements and travel agent details. This is sent $400 deposit due when you apply. Balance of program cost to be out 4 months ahead of program departure. This information is also paid by Jun 1 (Fall semester) & Oct 1 (Spring semester). A further made available in the pre-departure section of our website. $1500 is due within 14 days of acceptance. Flights from North America to Program Start and return Included in Program Tuition: from Program Finish; and regional flights • All in-country land transport and travel (not flights) • All accommodation Our preferred groups travel agent is STA Travel, who can assist you • All meals to arrange international flights to and from home and also any • All Spanish language classes (at your level of proficiency) internal program flights on program. They will send you an itinerary • All expeditions, activities, excursions, entry fees and adventure with the necessary flights to ensure you arrive and leave on time travel as described in the itinerary and also travel with the rest of the group when on program. • Service learning projects in conservation and community development To and from home: • Experiential core curriculum that pushes students to reflect This will be from your nearest regional airport to Program Start and ask questions of themselves - working towards a deeper (Cancun, Mexico), and return home from Program Finish (San Jose, understanding of their values, identity, passions and purpose Costa Rica). As an example, the ticket cost from the USA (Miami) • Individual mentorship from program instructors, supporting you to Cancun, and return from San Jose, Costa Rica is approximately in your personal goals for the program USD$600. • Informal lectures from resident experts on conservation, development, eco-tourism, ecology and sustainability On program: • Experienced Program Instructors and local guides You are required to book the regional flights that link our program • 1-3-week optional extensions if you wish to continue travelling itinerary through STA, so that the whole group are travelling independently after the program together on the same flights. The cost for the regional sectors is • Pre-departure web-page with all information you need in one approximately USD$950. Pacific Discovery does not charge any fee place to prepare for the program for assisting with flights – we offer this service to simplify program • 24/7 emergency contact number for students and parents arrangements for you, and to ensure that all participants arrive in • Global medical rescue and political evacuation insurance Cancun together and travel together on the same flights within the • Instructors have 24/7 access to a physician and a psychologist, for region. advice and support • Pacific Discovery T-shirt and water bottle stickers • Online image library for your program Flights from other countries to/from program start/ • Visas are not required for most nationalities finish; and regional flights We have a preferred groups travel agent in the UK, for participants Not included in Program Tuition: travelling from UK and Europe. Our travel agent will be able to assist International flights and regional flights (refer flights below); Snacks, you with flights from your country. You are also welcome to arrange drinks, personal spending; Travel insurance; Optional academic your own flights/travel to program start and from program finish. credit. Please note that it is essential that you arrive in time for program start, to participate in the mandatory program briefing/orientation. You are required to book the regional flights through our groups International Flights travel agent in the USA, so that the whole group are travelling together on the same flights. The cost for the regional sectors is Students should not book their travel until after you have received approximately USD$950. Pacific Discovery does not charge any fee for assisting with flights – we offer this service to simplify program arrangements for you, and to ensure that all participants travel together on the same flights within the region.

Optional Extensions

Our program will give you the skills, and most likely the inclination, for further travel, and you may like to continue your adventures at program end, independently or with others in your group. At the time you make your international flight bookings, enquire about the options for extending your time in-country, or a stopover elsewhere on your way home.

Country Information

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico Central America is a narrow strip of land connecting North and Until the 1960s, when proper road and rail links were finally South America. It lies fully within the tropics, yet has at least a completed, the Yucatán Peninsula had more contact with Europe, dozen climatic zones. It is considerably diverse in local climates, Cuba and the US than with central Mexico. Today, the region which make generalizations on temperature and rainfall difficult. remains distinct, with traditional Maya life alongside massive Broadly, Central America has a tropical humid climate and in most tourist attractions such as great Mayan ruins and the super-resort locations even the coldest month’s average above 65. Rainfall is of Cancún. Once the province of Maya rebels and palm-plantation high and regular. owners, the Caribbean coast is now the so-called Riviera Maya. The Yucatán Peninsula is the longest continuously settled part of Fall Program – Average temperature ranges during our program: Mexico, with evidence of Maya inhabitants as early as 2500 BC. Tulum, Mexico (min-max): 70-88° Fahrenheit Today, the Maya still live in the Yucatán, in many cases remarkably Belize City (min-max): 75-90° Fahrenheit true to their old traditions and lifestyle. The culture and language Antigua, Guatemala (min-max): 60-72° Fahrenheit remain a strong source of pride that sets this area apart from central San Jose, Costa Rica (min-max): 65-82° Fahrenheit Mexico. Tulum’s spectacular coastline – with all its confectioner- sugar sands, jade-green water and balmy breezes – makes it one of Spring Program – Average temperature ranges during our program: the top beaches in Mexico, along with dramatic Mayan ruins, and Tulum, Mexico (min-max): 65-85° Fahrenheit spectacular cenotes (sinkholes). Belize City (min-max): 70-84° Fahrenheit Antigua, Guatemala (min-max): 55-74° Fahrenheit Belize San Jose, Costa Rica (min-max): 65-86° Fahrenheit Belize is the only country in Central America whose official language is English, though Belizean Creole (Kriol) and Spanish are also Suitability commonly spoken. Belize has the lowest population density in Central America. Belize’s abundance of terrestrial and marine This program is challenging and rewarding. Participants need to be species and its diversity of ecosystems make it globally ecologically interested in engaging with local people, pursuing new experiences, significant. Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest in the world, pushing personal boundaries, and be fit enough to complete multi- after Australia’s, and with more than 100 types of coral and some day expedition elements (diving, trekking, surfing) and engage in 500 species of tropical fish, it’s pure paradise for scuba divers and physical work during the service project. snorkelers. Open to high school graduates, university students and Guatemala graduates, ideally 18 – 24 years. This program is suitable for Spanning a mountainous slice of Central America, Guatemala is anyone of moderate fitness with an enthusiasm for conservation, loaded with incredible natural, historical and cultural appeal. It is humanitarian work, new experiences and different cultures. It the most populous country in Central America, with a population is an excellent option for students and graduates electing a gap of 16 million. As the birthplace and heartland of the ancient Maya, semester or gap year experience and wanting to be exposed to the country is in many ways defined by the legacy of this early and immersed in cultures different to their own. You need to be civilization. Their rainforest cities were abandoned centuries ago, but open-minded, committed to, and prepared for some physical work Maya people continue to thrive in the Guatemalan highlands, where whilst on the volunteer service components of the program. You do traditions and religious rituals, mingled with Catholic practices, not need to be proficient in Spanish. This program is suitable for endure to form the richest and most distinctive indigenous identity both beginner and experienced Spanish speakers. No prior travel, in the hemisphere. Guatemala today is very much a synthesis of trekking or experience with activities is required. Maya and colonial traditions, fused with the omnipresent influences of twenty-first century Latin and North American culture. Baroque churches dating back to the Spanish Conquest coexist with pagan Attitude temples that have been sites of worship for millennia. Highland street markets prosper alongside vast glitzy shopping malls, and pre- The program is a shared group experience. We expect you to join Columbian festival dances are performed by teenage hip-hop fans. the program with an open mind and a willingness to work together with your group mates to make the program an amazing experience Costa Rica for the whole group. Additionally, the program will be as much Costa Rica is often pictured as an oasis of political stability in about the inner journey of personal growth and learning about the midst of a turbulent region. This democratic and prosperous yourself as it is about what you will experience in the outer physical nation is also one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, an journey. We expect you to be open to learning and challenging your ecological treasure-trove whose wide range of habitats – ranging ideas and assumptions. from rainforests and beaches to volcanoes and mangrove swamps – support a fascinating variety of wildlife, much of it now protected by an enlightened national conservation system widely regarded as a model of its kind. Revenue from tourism is one of the reasons Costa Ricans – or Ticos, as they are generally known – now enjoy the highest rate of literacy, health care, education and life expectancy in the isthmus.

Climate Group Size

The group is limited to 14 students, with 2 experienced and qualified traveling. This consultation needs to be at least two months prior Pacific Discovery program instructors. Local guides assist with to departure. Ask your physician about vaccinations for Hepatitis A interpretation of some historical sites, cultural experiences, activities. and Typhoid, and check that routine childhood vaccinations are up- to-date. There is no risk of yellow fever in the countries this program Program Leadership travels in. Zika virus is present but only presents risk to pregnant women. There is low malaria risk while in Guatamala (weeks 5 through 7) – please discuss this with your travel doctor and take We have selected a dynamic team of inspiring, supportive, their advice regarding malaria precautions for those days. resourceful, and highly experienced instructors to lead our programs. Our program instructors are committed to putting your welfare and If you have any queries regarding health recommendations for safety first. They are people in whom you can trust and confide, travel, please contact your doctor, or a travel doctor, to discuss this. who remain objective whatever the circumstances, and who take For further information about health & vaccinations click here or the a genuine interest in your well-being. They implicitly understand government site here. the importance of balancing the needs of individuals with group objectives, facilitating a high level of group cohesion, inspiring a genuine appreciation for the areas visited and an awareness of Spending Money minimum impact travel ethics. All our instructors are trained in wilderness or remote travel first aid, group leadership and risk Spending money usually goes towards meals not included with the assessment/management. program, drinks and snacks, personal shopping, laundry, email and entertainment. We recommend you budget approximately $5-10 Accommodation per day for drinks, snacks and other personal expenses. You need to bring this money yourself. The amount of spending money you bring really depends on your budget and shopping habits. Our accommodation will vary from welcoming homestays, lodges and camping with shared facilities, to hotels and guesthouses with private bathrooms. Laundry, postal, telephone and email facilities Keeping In Touch will be available frequently, except while at our service learning projects, trekking trips and community stays. Accommodation is WiFi is available at places we stay in main cities and towns, so you diverse, comfortable and carefully chosen to fit our needs. may like to consider bringing a compact WiFi device. Family and friends will also be able to keep in touch and follow your adventures Meals through the Pacific Dicovery travel journal (which your group and instructors will be posting to), and through an online album for your group (which your leader’s will upload photos to each week). Meals are fresh, tasty, healthy and varied. Special dietary requirements and vegetarians are catered for. All breakfasts, lunches and dinners are included in the program tuition. Passports and Visas

Transport Travel abroad requires a passport. If you don’t have one, you need to apply for one as soon as you apply for this program. Click here for the US Government Passport website. The itinerary has been designed to maximise comfort and safety whilst also giving you the opportunity to experience local transport If you already have a passport, it must be valid for more than 6 and take part in daily life. We utilize private vans and buses, private months after program end, otherwise you need to get a new one taxis, private and local boats, bicycles and take several flights within issued before joining the program, so please do this as soon as you the program to avoid long and arduous travel days. apply for this program.

Free Time If you are from the USA or Canada you do not require a visa to enter any of the countries on the program. If you are from another Each week there will be some designated free time in a town or city country, please contact Pacific Discovery to find out about any visa so that you can catch up on email and laundry, rest, and have your requirements. own independent experiences with others in the group. For those taking optional academic credit, this is also an opportunity for you to Travel Insurance catch up on reading, journaling and assignments etc. Pacific Discovery requires all students to purchase a comprehensive Health travel insurance policy for the duration of the program. Travel insurance provides cover in the event of medical expenses due to There are no specific health or fitness requirements to participate in sickness or accident, and emergency medical evacuation. Travel the Central America Semester. However, to maximize your enjoyment insurance may also include cover for loss of baggage or personal of the program, we suggest you begin a fitness program several effects, and trip cancellation or trip curtailment. months before departure. As a guideline, you should be able to comfortably hike with a day-pack for up to four hours. To arrange your policy go to with us, click here. We require you to consult your physician or a travel doctor, regarding recommended vaccinations and any foreseeable illnesses while

☐ Apply online for the program and pay $400 application fee Peace of Mind (www.pacificdiscovery.org/apply) Pacific Discovery is an educational travel organization accredited ☐ Review the pre-departure information for this program in the with American Gap Association (USA). Since its inception, in 2001, student login section of our website Pacific Discovery has taken several thousand students, graduates, faculty, family and special interest groups, on experiential travel and volunteer programs, utilizing a staff of experienced and ☐ Obtain a passport, or check your existing passport is valid at qualified program instructors. We have an exemplary safety least 6 months beyond program end record, comprehensive Safety Management Systems and a database of alumni, parents, advisors and faculty, who are happy ☐ To secure your spot on program, pay your $1500 deposit to be contacted for feedback. The program carries public liability insurance, and student funds are held securely until disbursement. within 14 days of acceptance program

☐ Arrange your travel insurance Any Questions? Please contact us… Click here to learn more... Pacific Discovery HQ in New Zealand ☐ Book Flights Zach Johnstone, Director After you receive the flight confirmation email from Pacific Austin Rogers, Admissions Discovery, book your flights from your hometown to program Nicky Sygrove, Outreach start, and home from program finish, and your internal flights. US freecall to our office in New Zealand 1800 655 3415 ☐ Before June 1st (Fall groups) Email. [email protected] or Oct 1st (Spring groups): Web. www.pacificdiscovery.org Submit your final payment. If you apply after this date, your final payment is due within 14 days of applying. Installment options are available – contact us for details.

☐ Decide if you will take optional transferable academic credit on the program and register for this by clicking here.

☐ Keep active Anything is good…swimming, running, walking, biking, hiking, sport, dancing. The fitter you are the more you’ll get out of the program.

☐ View the Pre-Departure section of our website: Review the gear list and gear tips To make the most of your time in Central America, read/watch some of the recommended books or movies

☐ Connect with us: Facebook.com/PacificDiscovery Instagram.com/pacificdiscovery/ Twitter: @pacificdiscovry (no e) Snapchat: PacDisco