Students have two choices for accommodations. They may either live with a Costa Rican family or stay in the luxury hotel connected to the school.

HOMESTAYS:
Families provide an ideal way to really get to know Costa Rica, and to receive a wonderful introduction to rural Costa Rican culture. The families are extraordinarily friendly, and willingly invite you to share their vibrant, happy lifestyle as a member of the family. Most importantly, you get to practice your language skills in the best possible classroom, that of daily interactions, with people who are patient and enjoy helping you learn. You will have your own room, and receive breakfast, dinner and laundry service at your homestay. Our families all live within walking distance of the school, either along the beach or down the (unpaved) side road! You may also rent bikes if you wish. "We recommend renting bikes for easier transportation in and around town."

You should not expect the same standard of living as you have at home. You will be in a rural, tropical area, and will probably see more insects than you are used to! Families generally do not have hot water, AC, high wattage light bulbs, home internet access nor private bathrooms. If you do decide to choose a homestay, most likely you will be living in a smaller home than your own, with more basic amenities, but it will have what you need to be comfortable. To enjoy a homestay, you just need an open mind, and the ability to adapt to a new lifestyle that may include "roughing it" somewhat but will also give you the chance to immerse yourself in a new language and a new culture while sharing the life of a local family… an unforgettable experience!

HOMESTAY PICTURES:

HOTEL:
We offer several hotel options for those interested. Hotels include different amenities, based on rates and availability. Most have AC and/or swimming pool. Prices are based on double occupancy; singles will have a surcharge applied. Hotel rooms all have private bathrooms with hot water.

Note: The hotel option is based on a 5-night occupancy: Sunday through Thursday nights, leaving Friday. We also offer a 7-night option for a higher price, which includes weekend nights. Please see our price list for more details.

In both the homestays and the hotel, no visitors are allowed, particularly overnight! In the hotel, only registered guests are allowed beyond the hotel lobby.

ALTERNATE LODGING (Apartments, Condominiums and Houses): For those who prefer to make their own lodging arrangements, this is an easy and economical option, especially for students planning to travel during their program, or who wish to maintain flexibility in their dates. In addition, other housing may offer more independence, cooking facilities and additional amenities. Please see our links page http://www.samaralanguageschool.com/links.html for recommendations close to the school and town centre, and http://www.samarabeach.com/hotels.htm for general recommendations. Or email directly to:

IMPORTANT: For students in homestays

Families are paid from Sunday to Sunday in Sámara, regardless of whether the student leaves before Sunday. Therefore, if a student returns early to a family in Heredia the cost is $20 (with breakfast and dinner) for each additional night in Heredia. Students in homestays may also stay in Sámara until Sunday and take the public bus back to San Jose/Heredia at 8:30am. During high season (December, January, March, and April), there are Sunday buses at 8:30am and 3pm.

Students may add up to a maximum of 4 additional nights with their host family. After 4 nights, the full week rate will be charged.

There are also various local hotel options in Heredia and close to the airport:

Hotel Heredia ($16, phone: +506-238-0880);

Hotel America ($28 (with breakfast), phone: +506-260-9292),

Hotel Milenium ($45(with breakfast), phone: +506-430-5050);

Hampton Inn ($99, phone: +506-443-0343).