INTERNSHIP IN COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is a country in Central America with a population of approximately 5 million people. The capital, San José, is home to an estimated 333,980 residents, while the surrounding metropolitan area, where our project is also located, has around 2 million inhabitants. In recent years, Costa Rica has emerged as a popular destination for travelers from around the globe, drawn by its diverse array of adventure opportunities, such as rainforest treks, surfing on pristine beaches, and exploring its unmatched natural beauty, including stunning national parks and impressive biodiversity. The country’s commitment to environmental conservation has earned it a reputation as an ecological haven, making it a favorite among eco-tourists and nature lovers.

Although Costa Rica is relatively prosperous compared to other Central American countries, it still faces significant challenges related to poverty and inequality. The nation has made strides in improving the quality of life for many of its citizens, but disparities remain, particularly in rural areas and among certain marginalized groups. According to World Bank data, about 21% of the Costa Rican population lived below the poverty line in 2020, underscoring the ongoing need for efforts to more evenly distribute wealth and create opportunities for everyone, regardless of their socio-economic background. These challenges present an urgent call for both local and international efforts to foster inclusive growth and community resilience.

As an intern in Costa Rica, you will have the unique opportunity to make a lasting impact in the local communities of Esparza. You will primarily work in local schools and neighborhoods, where you will provide sports training to children from underprivileged communities. The foundation uses sports as a powerful tool to support children from various social backgrounds in their social development and the building of essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and self-confidence. These skills are not only crucial for their personal growth but also serve as a foundation for future opportunities, helping them to break the cycle of poverty and aspire to a better future.

Additionally, as an intern, you will have the chance to get involved in other community-building projects, which may include organizing educational workshops, participating in environmental conservation efforts, or helping to develop local infrastructure. These projects allow you to make a broader contribution to local development and the strengthening of communities, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals. This experience not only offers the opportunity to develop professional skills such as leadership, project management, and cross-cultural communication but also provides a deeply rewarding chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and families you work with.

By immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of Costa Rica, you will gain invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of grassroots development work. You will leave with not only professional growth and a deeper understanding of global issues but also with lasting memories and a sense of fulfillment from contributing to the well-being of a community in need. This internship is more than just an opportunity to gain experience—it is a chance to make a tangible difference and to be part of something truly impactful.

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Experience Costa Rica

Costa Rica

WHO IS THIS INTERNSHIP SUITABLE FOR?

Your goal as an intern isn’t necessarily to train the next Bryan Ruiz of Costa Rica though you never know, it could happen! Therefore, you don’t need to be an experienced coach or hold any certifications. While a basic understanding of the sport you’ll be teaching is helpful, the most important thing is that you bring enthusiasm and energy to your lessons.

This internship is ideal for students pursuing sport-related studies, but it’s also a great fit for those studying event/leisure management, marketing, education, or cultural studies. It’s important to note that you will always be engaged as a sports coach. In Costa Rica, you have the option to spend some days at the office working on your school or internship assignments. Some exciting internship projects include organizing a large-scale sports event, introducing a new sport into the curriculum, conducting research, or setting up a fundraising event.

We are always open to accommodating your specific interests and needs. It is also possible to conduct research while in Costa Rica; feel free to contact us to explore the possibilities.

WHY The Power of Sports?

  • No registration fee or deposit.
  • Everyone gets a no-obligation intake interview.
  • Affordable internships abroad, especially when you consider what you get for it.
  • Free Spanish course for 10+ week internship
  • The only travel organization that focuses entirely on social sports trips.
  • We tell an honest story and assess whether you are suitable for the project.
  • Our programs are carried out responsibly and have a proven positive impact.
  • All our employees are well acquainted with our foreign programs.
  • We offer good personal guidance, both in your home country and abroad.
  • We are founders and part of the ‘volunteer aware’ quality mark. We want to emphasize that our projects are rooted in a sincere dedication to a noble goal.

ARRIVAL WEEKENDS

In Costa Rica you can arrive every weekend. Preferably on a Sunday after 8:00 and before 22:00. Please note that during the Easter holidays, the first two weeks of July and the Christmas holidays there are no sports projects.
I am a vegetarian. Will my dietary requirements be taken into account?
-If you let us know in advance that you are a vegetarian, they can take this into account in Costa Rica.
Do I have to speak Spanish for my internship in Costa Rica?
– It is not a must, but it will make your internship considerably easier. Our colleagues in Costa Rica speak good English, but in general people still speak English quite poorly. We will therefore also encourage you to take a Spanish course in advance. We can help you with this and we may even reimburse it. Fortunately, sport is a language that everyone speaks, so you can also get a long way with your hands and feet :).
How does my Spanish lesson week look like?
-For interns who stay for 10 weeks or longer, we reimburse a Spanish course in Costa Rica. If you go shorter then the 10 weeks then these lessons cost  £170 |€200 |  $230,-. The reduction will take 15 hours in total and will occur in the mornings. If you know well in advance that you want to do an internship in Costa Rica, we can see if we can reimburse a Spanish course in your home country so that you already have a good command of the Spanish language before you arrive.
What do I need to take into account abroad?
-After our no-obligation conversation where everything is discussed. You will be given time to think about whether this adventure is for you. If you decide to go, we will schedule a second conversation with you where we will go through the ‘Welcome pack’ together. This contains everything you need to take into account, what you need to bring, vaccinations, etc.
How many other people will be there?
There are always other interns/volunteers present at the accommodation in Costa Rica. The size of the group varies between 10 and 30. They are not all from the same country. You can contact us to ask how many others will be there during your period. We will also create a group app with people from your home country who will be making the trip in the same time frame. This way you can even get to know each other.

Sports in Costa Rica

There are several sports that are popular in Costa Rica. Here are some examples:

Football (or “fútbol” in Spanish) is by far the most popular sport in Costa Rica. The national football team has a strong reputation and has participated in multiple World Cups.

Basketball is also a popular sport in Costa Rica, especially among young people. There are several professional basketball teams, as well as many local leagues.

Surfing is a popular watersport in Costa Rica, thanks to its extensive coastline and excellent waves. There are numerous surf spots along the coast, attracting surfers from around the world.

Tennis is another popular sport in Costa Rica, with many tennis clubs and tournaments held throughout the country.

Athletics and running are also widely enjoyed in Costa Rica, with many local and national races and marathons.

Other popular sports in Costa Rica include volleyball, boxing, swimming, and cycling.

In short, there are many different sports and activities to enjoy in Costa Rica, whether you’re a professional athlete or simply looking for a fun way to stay fit and enjoy the country’s beautiful surroundings.

4 weeks internship is
£1100  €1295  $1460

including:

  • Beautiful accommodation.
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off.
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
  • For stays of 10+ weeks a free Spanish course (15 hours), otherwise it is €200,-.
  • Introduction and tour upon arrival.
  • A designated coordinator at your project location.
  • Regular social events and joint activities with other volunteers and interns.
  • Visa advice and support.
  • Access to the groups app with all other volunteers/interns who are traveling at the same time.
  • Contact details of your coordinator to get acquainted in advance.
  • Any additional week is
    £220  €255  $290

ABOUT COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is best known for its stunning natural beauty, biodiversity, and adventurous activities. The country boasts a long coastline with beautiful beaches and is home to some of the world’s most impressive rainforests and national parks. Costa Rica truly has something for everyone. The most popular activities include surfing, zip-lining, rafting, mountain climbing, hiking, and exploring volcanoes.

Beyond its natural beauty, Costa Rica also has a rich culture and history. The country hosts a wide variety of festivals and celebrations, from the Carnival in Limón to the Festival of the Little Devils in Masaya.

Costa Rica is also a leader in sustainability and ecotourism. The country has set ambitious goals to become carbon-neutral and invests heavily in preserving its natural resources. This makes it an ideal destination for environmentally conscious travelers who want to enjoy nature without leaving a large ecological footprint.

If you’re a food lover, Costa Rica is also a fantastic destination. The country offers a diverse cuisine with plenty of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and vegetables. Be sure to try “gallo pinto,” a traditional dish of rice and beans served at nearly every meal. Other local favorites like “casado” and fresh ceviche are must-tries as well.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable destination with breathtaking natural beauty, exciting activities, and a rich culture, Costa Rica is definitely a place to consider. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adventure in the mountains, or a cultural experience in the cities, Costa Rica has it all.

Accommodation

The accommodation is located in the center of Esparza, where you will stay in one of two eco-houses called Jaguar House and Toucan House. These houses can accommodate up to 22 people. The rooms are shared by four people, and you’ll sleep in bunk beds. If you need extra privacy or are traveling with a partner, we also have two private rooms available. Each house has two Western-style toilets and shower areas with cold water, which is refreshing in the heat of Esparza. Additionally, the rooms are equipped with mosquito screens and two fans.

The accommodation includes laundry facilities, a kitchen, a large dining hall, a chill-out space, and a common area shared by both houses. You’ll also have access to free Wi-Fi, a TV, and a ping-pong table. Outside, there’s a large garden filled with tropical plants, including coconut palms, papaya, banana, and citrus trees.

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Accommodation