Q: Do I need to get Costa Rican money (known as colones) before travelling?
A: No, we will get a good exchange rate at the Wyndham Hotel upon arriving.
Q: Is it safe in Costa Rica? Can I travel by myself?
A: We have never had any problems, but we require students to travel in groups (preferably with a faculty member the first few days while you are learning the area) for safety.
Q: Do I need a copy of my passport
A: Yes, make 3 copies of the photo page. One copy you will keep on you for identification while in Costa Rica. Two copies you will give to me. I will secure one copy and one copy will be given to another SIUE Public Health Faculty member who will be in the US.
Q: Do I need any other documents?
A: Yes, make 3 copies of your birth certificate. One copy you will keep on you for identification while in Costa Rica. Two copies you will give to me. I will secure one copy and one copy will be given to another SIUE Public Health Faculty member who will be in the US.
Q: May I or my family make financial donations for building supplies, medicine, shoes, etc.?
A: Yes! Contributions for these items are tax deductible and can be made directly to C.A.M.P. (make the check payable to C.A.M.P. and send it to Jack Moser, P.O. Box 382, Tremont, IL 61568 and note “Donation to CAMP 2017 project”). You will receive a receipt from CAMP for tax purposes.
Q: Do I need special shots for the trip?
A: We recommend that you check/update your tetanus shot status. We also refer you to the CDC website for specific health issues in Costa Rica (www.CDC.gov). Any travel creates challenges relating to your overall health so we recommend taking OTC medications for normal common ailments. If different medications are required, a local pharmacy is located next to the hotel.
Q: How much cash should I bring?
A: $300-$400 seems like a reasonable figure. Having said that, most places take Visa/Master Card and ATM machines are available.
Q: Do I need to speak Spanish to go?
A: No, it is not required. But, many report the trip is more meaningful if you develop some Spanish skills before travel begins.
Q: Can I take gifts for people in Costa Rica?
A: Absolutely. While candy is exciting for children there, we have found that items such as toothpaste, pencils/pens, rulers, balloons, crayons, backpacks, and peanut butter produce more long-lasting results!
Q: If I am uncomfortable in church settings or faith-based discussion groups, do I have to attend?
A: The Protestant church service on the first Sunday and CAMP group discussions are optional for Washburn students. Having said that, many students are interested in observing the Sunday service as part of understanding Costa Rican culture. There are Catholic churches in the area (Catholicism is the official religion of Costa Rica) for those that would like to attend. We will try to be back on Sunday night for Mass after the waterfall trip for those interested.
Q: Will we have chances to interact with native Costa Ricans?
A: Yes! The construction team will work at an orphanage surrounded by children and the nuns that run the facility. We will eat lunch with them. Nurses will have several days where they interact with individuals in various health settings. All of us will interact directly with children when we distribute shoes on the last Friday. Casual conversations with individuals at the hotels, restaurants, and parks will also provide opportunities to use language skills and learn about Costa Rica.