City Overview - Atenas

Atenas is a picturesque town situated in the central highlands of Costa Rica, roughly 45 minutes west of the bustling capital city of San José. This small town is made up of many surrounding communities that base their livelihood on agricultural pursuits such as growing coffee, oranges, mangos, and sugarcane. Costa Rican history, tradition, and culture are deeply rooted here. Atenas is a clean and charming town with a laid-back atmosphere that students love. The friendly demeanor of the locals and the surrounding beauty of the area make this an ideal location for Spanish study.

City Overview - Heredia

Heredia is located in the cool highlands of Costa Rica on the western edge of the Central Valley. Known as the “City of Flowers”, Heredia is located only 20 minutes from the capital city of San José, yet retains the atmosphere of a smaller Costa Rican town. It is one of the oldest colonial settlements in the country — its main church was built in 1797. The central plaza is an inviting place to stroll and experience life in the city. Adding to the charm of Heredia, the surrounding countryside is home to many coffee plantations and small farms. The city rests on the lower slopes of impressive Poás Volcano, whose active past has provided the area with extremely fertile soil. Heredia provides a wonderful mix of old and new and you are sure to enjoy studying Spanish in this setting.

 Country Overview - Costa Rica

Costa Rica is often identified as the “Switzerland of the Americas” due to its natural beauty and political stability. It is among a minority of countries in the world that have no standing army. Here, you will discover a country of friendly people and breathtaking landscapes. Costa Rica is roughly the size of West Virginia, yet it holds 5 percent of the world’s biodiversity. The mountainous landscape is dotted with volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, and rushing rivers. Costa Rica is situated between two coastlines, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, giving it miles of stunning seashore that supports an amazing array of sea life. Of Costa Rica’s roughly 3.5 million inhabitants, about two thirds live in the Central Valley. Outside of the valley, the country still retains its rural roots. While in Costa Rica, you will have endless opportunities to practice and learn Spanish. It is considered one of the best places in the world to study Spanish due to the clear and enjoyable accent of its inhabitants.

▪ Affordable programs in the highlands of central Costa Rica

▪ Study at the prestigious ATESA Spanish Institute or an accredited Costa Rican university in Heredia, the InterAmerican University

▪ "Atenas has the best climate in the world" National Geographic

▪ Spanish classes in Atenas are taught on an orange and mango farm underneath towering trees

▪ Heredia is a university town with a large student life and is one of Costa Rica’s first colonial cities