2026 Costa Rica: Day 6

Bullis 8th graders in Costa Rica

Greetings Bullis families and community!

It is our final evening in Costa Rica, and emotions are bittersweet. As mentioned yesterday, the groups switched itineraries today to plant trees, complete a waterfall hike, take surf lessons, and frolic on Playa Chaman.

Then it was time to travel by bus to San Jose, and stop for souvenir shopping on the way. We ended the evening by celebrating and reflecting on the trip with our Global Works leaders, Mrs. Hannah White, and Dr. Weinstein-Sears. There were many different emotions - sadness at the thought of leaving, joy for the memories made, confidence from stepping outside their comfort zone, and an eagerness at the thought of reuniting with families. 

Here are two reflections on our final day and the trip as a whole:

Cayla G. '30 writes

Today was our last full day in Costa Rica, and it felt really bittersweet. In the morning, my group headed into the rainforest to plant trees, which made me feel like we were actually helping the environment. The trail felt like a giant slip and slide because it was so muddy and slippery, and we were all laughing every time someone almost fell. When we finally reached the waterfall, it was so worth it. The water was freezing, but super refreshing after the hot hike. After drying off, we went back for lunch at El Tecal, and I think I ate my weight in rice and beans. Later, we got on the bus to San José, and the ride was a whole vibe with everyone sharing snacks and talking about their favorite moments. We also stopped to go souvenir shopping, which turned into everyone trying to find the best gifts. When we arrived at the Wyndham Herradura, we had our final dinner and closing circle, which felt really special but also kind of emotional. Overall, today was the perfect mix of fun, reflection, and spending time with everyone one last time.

Finally, this trip to Costa Rica was honestly a core memory that I will never forget. One of the most meaningful things I did was help paint a mural in a local community, and even though I got paint all over myself, it felt amazing to leave something behind. One of the biggest risks I took was zip-lining because I was terrified of falling, but once I went for it, the adrenaline was insane and I ended up loving it. White water rafting was also one of my favorite parts because the rapids were intense and it felt like a real adventure. Surfing challenged me a lot because it took balance and focus, but I felt really accomplished when I stood up. I also loved learning about Costa Rican culture, especially the meaning of “pura vida” and how kind and welcoming everyone was. Throughout the trip, I got closer with my friends and made so many unforgettable memories. Even though I’m excited to go home, I’m really going to miss this experience. Pura vida!

From the perspective of Sammi HB '30 

Our last full day in Costa Rica began bright and early with a wake-up at 7 AM and breakfast at 7:30. We walked a quick 5-minute stroll to Playa Chaman in Uvita, where everlasting miles and miles of sandy shores and white caps awaited us. I was in the second group to surf, so I patiently waited with friends just wading in the warm waters and soft, mushy sand underfoot. The salt stung our sight, but it couldn't stop us from being in awe of the wonders of ocean and jungle surrounding us. After about 60-90 minutes of relaxing and drawing in the sand, it was my group's turn to take on the waves. We had a safety briefing, then, surprisingly, I think I found my hidden talent of surfing, after getting up on the board multiple times. Despite the probable gallons of saltwater I consumed and inhaled today, I would 100% do it again if I had the chance. We ended the night arriving at the hotel in San Jose with dinner and a reflective, final closing circle.

Overall, a time was definitely had in Costa Rica and it's one I'll never forget. The most thrilling part of the trip was definitely zip-lining, as the adrenaline rushed through me and felt energizing as we zipped through the jungle. The biggest challenge I faced this past week was fixing the face of the Santa Ana community's Virgin Mary statue. I felt so much pressure yet love from the community to make something beautiful since they look at it in church every day. My absolute favorite part was white water rafting, then eating the juiciest, sweetest pineapple. My seat on the raft was definitely closest to the "splash zone" and I even lost one of my Crocs (which was later retrieved - shoutout Kari!). I felt most connected with my Bullis community during last night's salsa lesson, where we all just tried to feel the beat even if we were off the steps. Ending with karaoke was the best because my voice is amazing! This trip was amazing, and once I truly leaned in, I gained the best experience. I am so thankful for the opportunity to connect with my classmates, explore a foreign country, and learn new customs and characteristics of Costa Rica. ¡Pura vida mis amigos, and hasta luego Costa Rica!

Tomorrow we will wake up bright and early to make our flight. Although this is our final blog for the trip, please be on the lookout tomorrow for a final message from Dr. Weinstein Sears and Mrs. Hannah White. 

I'm sure students will have many thrilling stories to share with you when they return, but here are a few glimpses from our final full day in Costa Rica.

We will see you soon, and one more time for the road - pura vida! 

Best,

The 8th Grade Team

 


















 

Location: San José Province, San José, Costa Rica

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