FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions)

We have selected the most Frequently Asked Questions that our students ask and provide helpful answers.

1. Why are we called Spanish and Fun Cultural Center ?

At our Center, we believe that verbal communication and cultural understanding go hand in hand.  This is why we have designed immersion programs rich in cultural experiences to introduce a the Spanish language. We believe the best way to acquire a new language is in a pleasant, safe atmosphere where one can meet new friends and experience innovative learning techniques that are truly fun.  

2. Is Atenas Costa Rica a tourist city?  Is it expensive?

Atenas is close nit vibrant community and not exactly a tourist destination. The population includes a cohesive blend of local Costa Ricans and Americans, Europeans and Canadians who have settled to live here.  Because it is a small Costa Rican town, costs are very reasonable.  The relation between quality of life and price is one of the best attributes of the country.

3. Do I need to have a certain level of Spanish in order to study at Spanish and Fun?

Absolutely not, all levels are encouraged and welcome to participate.  When you arrive to our Center you will take a simple written and oral assessment that allows us to place you in the appropriate level for instruction.  We adjust our instruction to meet your needs and learning style.  For more information about our levels click Levels and Curriculum

4. What is the minimum age for each program?

The minimum age is 5 years old, yet, in the case of families coming with younger children we will provide the necessary instruction and accomodations.

5. When can I start the course?  When do I have to register?

You can begin the program whenever it is best for your schedule.  We recommend reserving a space at least 30 days in advance.  We will provide you with one of our instructional books when you arrive for your first class.

6. If I am going to be spending a lot of time in Atenas, can I take only the Spanish classes?

Yes, you can. We provide Spanish lessons and all of the necessary materials for people who live in the surrounding area.  The fee will be based only on a per-hour basis.  The price varies slightly, depending on the number of students in the class.

You can be sure to receive the same quality of instruction that is provided in any of our other programs.

7. Can I change course or level during my stay?

Of course, if you think that your Spanish classes aren’t tailored to your level, or if you progress at a different rate than your classmates, you can certainly speak with your teacher or the Spanish & Fun Directors in order to find the best solution for your language progression.

8. Are there any holidays at the Center when it will be closed?

Yes, we will be closed on the following holidays:

Labor Day (May 1)
Mother´s Day (August 15)
Independence Day (Sept. 15)
Christmas (Dec. 25)
New Years (January 1)

9. When will I receive the relevant details about my host family?

We will send you the contact information of your Costa Rican host family at least one week before your anticipated arrival.  We will also send a map of the area and indicate where your home stay is located.

10. When can I arrive and when must I leave?

You can plan to arrive and start you program when it is best for your schedule.  We outline certain week and monthly time periods in our prices for length of stays, however, we are very flexible to meet your scheduling needs and can accommodate any set length of time you require from one week to many months.  Please contact us for further discussion about your intended arrival and length of stay.

11. Can I stay extra nights?

Yes, you can stay for additional nights, weeks, or months if you desire.  Additional costs will be discussed with the directors.

12. Are the accommodation options close to the center?

All of our accommodation options are within a maximum of 10 minutes driving from either of our two campuses, the Central-Town and/or Eco-Green .   We provide transportation with our center’s minivan.

13. Are towels, sheets and bed linen included in the price?

The sheets and bed linens are included in the price.  However, please bring your own towels and any other personal things that you may need.

14. Is the cleaning and laundry service included in the price?

Yes.  You may choose to do your own laundry at your home stay family or you can work it out with your host family.  Our lodge has a washing machine that is available for your use.   

15. Will I have the chance to visit other cities in Costa Rica ?

Yes, your program will have excursions to other cities and locations, but you can also plan to do other travelling before, during, or after the program.  You can take advantage of the weekends if there is no excursion planned or any free days to embark on traveling in the country.  We will be glad to help you in making any         in-country travel arrangements.

16. Do I need a Visa to visit Costa Rica ?

No, you do not need a visa. If you are staying more than three months, you will need to leave the country for 72 hours, every 90 days.  If you want to work, you will need to acquire a special work visa. 

17. Is it easy to get a work visa in Costa Rica ?

No, it is not.

18. Is it necessary to have medical insurance to travel?

Yes, we highly recommended it.

19. Is it normal to use public transportation in Costa Rica ?  How is the quality?

Yes, it is.  We have a well established, reliable, and inexpensive public transportation throughout the entire country. You may visit the following website for ground schedule transportation  www.costaricaguide.info/es/bus.htm.    

20. How do I make a long distance call from Costa Rica ?

The best way is to buy international cards and use at any regular private or public telephone.  You can also use the free wireless internet service we offer at our two Center campuses or go to any internet café in town.

21. What is the currency in Costa Rica ?

The currency is the Costa Rica the colone (el colon costarricense)
 Click here for currency converter www.xe.com/ucc/
www.universal-edu.com/ucc[1] .

22. How to get to Atenas from San Jose or the Airport?

When you arrive we will pick you up at the International Airport in San Jose . However, if you are in San José visiting others and you want to go back to Atenas, there are direct buses which leave the “Coca Cola” bus station (all taxis know how to get there) from San José .  The cost is about $1.20 US.  The trip is very enjoyable and it lasts about 45 minutes.  Please click the Atenas Location section on our homepage for more information.

23. What documents should you bring with you?

Bring your passport, a driver’s license, if you have one, credit card, and travelers’ checks. (Personal checks are of little use since banks will take at least 20 working days to process them.)

24. What kind of personal items should you bring?

Atenas has a wonderful mild climate. It has been described by National Geographic as having “the best climate of the world’.  You should pack shorts, light long pants,  t-shirts, sneakers and sandals, light dresses, a light jacket (wind breaker), raingear and a compact umbrella, and a hat.  As a precaution, don’t bring expensive jewelry.

Please contact us if you have any other questions or want more details to any of our answers.

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