Hello parents, friends, and family!
Today your Glimpsers officially began their Costa Rica adventure, arriving with incredible energy and excitement despite a long travel day!
We started our morning bright and early (7:00 a.m.) at the Four Points Hotel in San José, where we spent the night resting before continuing our journey to Turrialba. After enjoying a delicious Costa Rican-style buffet breakfast, we boarded our bus with our driver, Moisés, for the approximately 3-hour drive. Along the way, we made a quick stop so everyone could grab some tasty snacks and drinks before heading to our Base House.
Once we arrived in the beautiful mountains of Turrialba, in the small community of San Rafael, everyone settled into their new home for the next 10 days. We then enjoyed a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch: casado (rice, beans, chicken, salad, and sweet plantains), which was a big hit with the group!
In the afternoon, we introduced the program expectations and reviewed the exciting program components that await the students over the next ten days. We also spent time getting to know each other through group activities and seminars, helping everyone begin building strong connections as a team.



After a little free time, we gathered for dinner and then held our very first Nightly Meeting. During the meeting, our first Leaders of the Day (LDDs) for tomorrow Elina, Nathan, and Sophia Recinos shared their talents and officially took over leadership responsibilities for Day 2.
Overall, the group had an amazing attitude, showed great enthusiasm, and embraced every moment of their first day. We couldn’t be more excited for everything that lies ahead!
Tomorrow we’ll explore the neighborhood, learn more about our local community, and continue strengthening our bonds through fun team-building activities.
With much love,
PCs: Dianna & Julio
PURA VIDA! 🌿
Comments (6)
Lolita Go
Yay! The adventure begins!
Christine Balazs
What a wonderful experience! I just love getting these updates. Wishing you all an amazing trip!
Brent Nichols (GG Staff)
Thanks so much Dianna and Julio. I love the super vibrant photos of the group and I’m glad to hear you all got to Turrialba safely. I’m looking forward to reading the blogs of the first LDDs soon!
Risa Juárez Neyra
Love to hear everyone is settled and excited for the week ahead! Laila we miss u and Pishi and Olly are looking for u! Have a blast! Read your daily notes!
Heather Schacher
WOOHOO!! Sending a big love to the group, and some extra to my Watts students Sophia, Brian, and Ricardo! You guys are going to have an amazing time! Also, Hi Diana and Julio!! I miss you guys and know this trip is in great hands with two amazing PC’s!!
Lourdes Quezada
Happy and excited to see that all travelers are getting to know each other. Although, I am missing my son David, I know he will make lasting memories along with his peers. 🙂