Jocelynn Vigil-Madrid - Blog Abroad

Blog #1

Arrival in Costa Rica! 

September 2025

After a seven-hour journey, I arrived in Costa Rica. I departed from the Albuquerque International Sunport, then to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, and finally arrived at Juan Santamaría International Airport. My first impression of Costa Rica was its greenery, rain, and humidity.

Once I collected my luggage and made it past immigration and customs, I went outside and found my transportation, which took me directly to my homestay. Upon arrival, I was greeted and welcomed by my host mom, whom I now refer to as my “Mamá Tica.” She immediately offered me a meal and began to explain the rules and dynamics of the household.

The next morning, I met the rest of the family, including the father and their young daughter. I have my own space in an apartment that is connected to my host family’s house. The apartment consists of two bedrooms and a bathroom. I really enjoy the dynamic of the household and feel that it works perfectly for me. For the first month, I will be living alone in the apartment. However, at the end of September, I will be joined by a roommate, who is also an American college student. I am glad that I will experience both living abroad independently and sharing the experience with a roommate. I chose to live in a homestay because I wanted the most immersive and authentic experience possible.

I am currently studying abroad at Universidad Veritas in San José, Costa Rica. When people think of Costa Rica, they often imagine the beaches and the jungle. However, many overlook the cities in the Central Valley, where most of the population lives. San José is an interesting place. Certain parts slightly remind me of a borough in New York City. Although it is considered a large city, it has a sense of community.

Within San José, there are many barrios. These neighborhoods include small mercados, carnicerías, cevicherías, farmacias, and sodas. You can find a soda in almost every barrio. A soda is a small, affordable, family-owned restaurant. They typically serve traditional “Tico”-style meals, though you can also find options such as hamburgers, chicken strips, fries, and pizza.

Overall, my initial experiences in Costa Rica have been welcoming and educational. I look forward to adapting to and learning from the “Tico’” lifestyle throughout the semester.