Editors’ Note: Unless otherwise specified, all image sources are Ryder Park
Over spring break, twenty-four Fieldston students embarked on a thrilling journey to Costa Rica, a trip meticulously organized by chaperones Alba Santana, Charo Beltran, Howard Waldman and Leslie Spalding. This nine-day adventure was designed to encompass every aspect of travel: building friendships, overcoming challenges and immersing ourselves in the vibrant Costa Rican culture.
Each day, we awoke with anticipation, ready to embrace the unique experiences that awaited us. Our knowledgeable guide, Keneth, shared fascinating insights into Costa Rican history, culture and ecology. Our first stop was San Jose, the country’s bustling capital, where we explored the underground markets and vibrant streets. The day concluded with a refreshing dip in the pool, and a delectable buffet dinner.
Next, we found ourselves on a long trip to Tortuguero National Park. We stopped by for breakfast and ate an authentic Costa Rican meal, immersed in the wildlife around us. Sloths and frogs surrounded us while we watched in awe. We also learned about the banana industry and were amazed at the production and processing of bananas.
We explored the beaches, towns and wildlife while in Tortuguero National Park. “Everything about Tortuguero National Park was incredible and fascinating, but the sheer number of bugs, along with the humidity, made me tired,” noted Benji Mager (V). Indeed, due to the hotel not having air conditioning and the bugs not repealed by the bug repellent, the only solution was to wear long clothing. To put it lightly, Spalding said, “You either sweat or itch.”
Our day of community service and forest restoration was impactful and the most significant part of this trip. We spent the day with children from the local school and played soccer, tag and many other activities. The children were extremely enthusiastic and a joy to be around. Later, we helped plant lettuce, cilantro and many other vegetables. Other students helped clear out dead leaves and garbage in the back of the school.
Forest restoration proved to be a demanding yet rewarding task. Everyone contributed and made a solid effort to plant five trees each. We learned the necessary precision and organization required for tasks such as these.
The group then learned how to make empanadas from a local family, who explained the components of an authentic empanada: beans and cheese, emphasizing that less is more.
Ziplining in Costa Rica offers an exhilarating way to experience the country’s lush landscapes and breathtaking biodiversity. Safely harnessed, we glided through the canopies and valleys, experiencing the thrill of flight. We learned that zip lines were originally invented in Costa Rica, and not only did we experience an adrenaline rush, but also gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for the country’s history and culture. The trip concluded with a breathtaking view of a La Fortuna waterfall, where we got to swim and take amazing photos. Our visit to an all-organic farm showed nature’s healing secrets through herbs and spices. This experience demonstrated the symbiotic relationship between humans and the earth and how sustainable agriculture nurtures the body and soul.
Morgon Washington Patterson (Form V) described the voyage back home the best: “Very eventful to say the least, honestly I didn’t know if it was a fever dream or not.” After canceling the flight from Miami to New York City, the group spent six hours actively seeking information and resolving their travel plans within the airport. When a party bus pulled into the airport at 12:30 in the morning, the fatigue disappeared as everyone was in excited disbelief. The group arrived at the hotel at 4:30 in the morning after a delicious meal at IHOP. The group spent the next day on the beaches of West Port, Florida. Eventually, the group returned to New York City because of our chaperones’ composure, positivity and leadership.
Overall, the trip was a highlight of the year, from the heat to the breathtaking landscapes every moment contributed to an unforgettable experience.
