This wonderful experience has forced me to think, speak, and feel in another language.

This is the best Spanish language school that I have ever experienced. The teachers, staff, and host families are all excellent.

"The personal attention given by the teachers and all the staff at Instituto Guanascasteco de Idiomas gave me the knowledge and confidence I needed to speak Spanish without fear. I was able to practice my conversation skills with my host family and everywhere else around Nicoya. All my experience in Nicoya exceeded my expectations!"

I have actually studied at this school twice now. The first time I studied here, I was fortunate enough to stay for an extended period...I think 5 weeks or so. I had a BLAST! I learned so much and quickly integrated into life with the locals. 10 years later, I returned to visit and study here again. Now that I am 10 years older, my idea of fun has changed a bit. Still, both the school and the community remain just a great a place for me now as an "older" student as it did for me 10 years ago. The school, the city and people of Nicoya and the entire country of Costa Rica hold a special place in my heart. Without a doubt, I will soon return for yet another round!!

April 2014 I recently attended this Spanish immersion school for 4 weeks. This was my first trip to Costa Rica and my first trip as a solo traveler. It was an invaluable experience. I was able to learn many commonly used vocabulary terms, verb conjugations, sentence structures, etc. for the time I was living in Costa Rica. I was able to practice what I learned in class during everyday activities outside of the school setting. The city has a small town feel, which is great in having to navigate to different parts of the area. For the money you pay for this program you receive top-notch teacher attentiveness, superb school facility, and student friendly staff. The people of the town are also friendly and inviting. It was not difficult to strike up conversations with anyone willing to talk. All of my needs and wants were met through this program. The school assists with planning fun activities as well as providing various fun activities including: Costa Rican cooking class, dancing class, and a hiking trip. The town is located 35-45 minutes away from numerous scenic beaches. While I was there I went to the beach almost every weekend. There is a canopy tour (zip-lining) business that is approximately 15-20 minutes away from the school that offers student discounts, breathtaking views of Nicoya, and a restaurant and bar area with hammocks! Accommodations were also superb. I stayed with a local Tican family who I now consider an extension of my own family due to their warmth and generosity. The food prepared everyday was delicious and always fresh. This school offers programs for people of various Spanish proficiency levels. The staff is well trained, patient, and kind. If you have the option I would highly recommend attending this school!