FAQ's - Sámara Spanisch Sprachschule

Where are Sámara Language School and Intercultura Language School located?

Intercultura Spanish Language School has two campuses in Costa Rica.

The beach campus is located in the charming beach community of Sámara.  Playa Samara is on the Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast and is located roughly 35 kilometers from the city of Nicoya, the colonial capital of the province.

The city campus is centrally located in the colonial town of Heredia, in the downtown area.  Heredia is a bustling college town and the National University is located about 12 blocks from Intercultura. 

When do Spanish Classes start?

New classes start Mondays, except if that Monday is one of Costa Rica's National Holidays. 

What does a typical class look like?

Group classes are taught for 4 hours per day Monday to Friday, for a total of 20 hours per week.  Our Spanish course structure is broken down into one unit per week, so students can study with us for as little as a week, or as long as a year or more.  At the beach campus, class schedules rotate daily so you have the opportunity to enjoy both mornings and afternoons at the beach.

Can I take private classes?

During low season, we provide both private and semi-private classes.  During high season, we are sometimes unable to provide private classes, although group classes are always available.  Contact us if you are interested in private classes.

What is the average age of students?

We accept students 18 years and older for the regular Spanish program.  Special programs are offered for other age groups, such as our adventure summer Teen Camp sessions for students ages 13-18.

How many students are there in a regular group class?

There is a six student maximum in our Spanish classes, averaging 3 to 4 students during low season and 4 to 6 during our high season. 

Can I get university credit through Intercultura and Sámara Language School?

U.S. college transfer credit is available through an associated U.S. university at an additional costa, or through established programs with colleges such as: University of Washington, Austin College, UNC/Duke University & Montana State College.

Can I study Spanish at both campuses?

Yes!

What will my homestay family be like?

We carefully selecte our homestay families and trust you will find them to be helpful, welcoming and kind during your time in Costa Rica.  With that in mind, please do not expect the same standard of living as in your own country.  Families are generally middle-class, which means you may be sharing a bathroom or sleeping on a bed with a foam mattress.  You will see your fair share of insects! 

When are the campuses closed?

January 1, Semana Santa (Holy Week), April 11, May 1, July 25, August 15, October 12, and 2 weeks around Christmas. 

What other activities does the school offer?

Latin dancing (salsa, merengue, cumbia), yoga (Sámara only), cooking, intercambios (conversational exchanges with local Costa Ricans), films, study halls, typical Tico festivals, football (soccer) or volleyball games, book fairs, story-telling with music, arts and crafts, community service projects and presentations or talks, free internet use.

How do I get from the Heredia city campus to the Samara beach campus or vice versa?

We can arrange a private shuttle for groups of 7 or more people between the campuses at a reasonable cost.  Most students however, opt for the public bus (approximately $8 one way) or hire a private shuttle such as Interbus .