A Break from the Classroom

Students take in one of the many
beautiful views at the
Waterfall Gardens

This weekend, students in the Summer Peace Institute explored a bit more of what Costa Rica has to offer. On Saturday, they met at 7AM for a day-long trip through the Alajuela province. The group was very lucky at Poás Volcano National park, as the dense cloud cover opened up just long enough for them to see the main attractions: the active crater and Lake Botos. Pablo Richard, who led the group on the day's tour, said that it was the first time he's gotten a clear look at the crater in at least two years. He was even more impressed at our luck given the fact that we're currently in the rainy season down here in Costa Rica!

Students got the chance to hold
toucans at the Waterfall Gardens
aviary

After Poás, the students made their way to the Waterfall Gardens and admired various exhibits that held jungle cats, butterflies, birds, monkeys, snakes, and frogs. At midday, the group took a break to enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch, and then took in some beautiful views of the park's several waterfalls.

Next, everyone got back in the bus to head to Sarchi, where they witnessed a very impressive Ox Cart Factory that was totally powered by water. Students also did some souvenir shopping in Sarchi and watched the Costa Rica-Honduras Gold Cup match with some local store owners. Unfortunately, the Ticos lost in penalty kicks so our new friends were not too happy! It was a long day, but definitely worth it.

Students prepare to enjoy lunch
after a hard day's work on the river

For those who were not too worn out from Saturday, Sunday was white-water rafting day. The group met even earlier -- at 5:30AM -- to be picked up for their ride to the Pacuare Canyon. It was a three-hour ride to the river, but no one seemed to mind the lengthy trip once the day got going! The students were divided into groups of 5-6 and were each assigned their own raft guide. They then spent four hours paddling down the river through Class III-IV rapids. At lunch time, the raft guides turned into white-glove waiters and prepared a great buffet-style lunch on the river bank. Probably the most impressive aspect of the trip, though, was that every minute of the trip was spent cutting through a seemingly untouched rainforest. There were virtually no signs of civilization the entire time -- no roads, no power lines, no cars, no trash. Many students remarked that it was like entering a whole new world. It was definitely a beautiful trip and it made for some very fun, exhilarating moments as well. (Luckily, we only had a few swimmers among the group!)

Students brave one of the many
Class IV rapids on the Pacuare River

This week, it's back to work in the classroom. The students have been logging hours of reading and engaging in very productive discussion groups each day. Currently, they're preparing for their group papers, which are due in a week. To hear some feedback from students, check out our YouTube channel. More video interviews will be uploaded tomorrow!