Luis Alvarado

Study Abroad Immersion Program

The Study Abroad Immersion Program Experienced by
Indiana University students in Costa Rica July 2021
 

Academia de Español Nicoya offers a welcoming environment to develop your Spanish communication skills. You will enjoy morning sessions with attentive team leaders and teachers who will help you improve your language level.  They will also prepare you to explore daily cultural experiences and the beauty of nature.
 

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Nicoya Farmers’ Market (La Feria del Agricultor)

The Nicoya Farmers’ Market is a vibrant place where you can immerse yourself in local culture and traditions, and gain a better understanding of the Nicoyan way of life.

The Feria del Agricultor (Farmers’  Market) takes place every Friday, from 6:00 am until approximately 3:00 pm.  The vendors set up their stalls every Thursday afternoon in preparation for Friday morning.

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Festival de la Tortilla

The Nicoya Party (Territory) was annexed to Costa Rica on July 25, 1824.  To commemorate the event many celebrations take place every July 25, especially in Guanacaste province.

Just 14 kilometers northeast of Nicoya (approximately a 20 minute drive) the rural community of Corralillo is located, where the inhabitants celebrate the Corn Tortilla Festival.

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Homestay Nicoya Blue Zone

Experience a homestay in the renowned Blue Zone of Nicoya and see the world through a new perspective.

Nicoya Peninsula is known for being one of 5 unique Blue Zones in the world, where people live longer and healthier.

There are many reasons why people live longer in Blue Zones.  Nicoya offers pure water, traditional nutritious food, a dry tropical climate, a supportive sense of community, and strong family ties.

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Marimba tradition

It is present in the joyous events of the ticos (Costa Ricans).  It is commonly played in religious activities, birthdays, weddings, and, of course, parties.  It “awakens the soul” of anyone who carefully listens to it.

The marimba:  part of the identity of Costa Rica, especially in Guanacaste.  It enriches folklore, traditions and culture.

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Coyol wine

Coyol wine is a traditional artisanal drink produced from the sap of the Coyol Palm Tree (scientifically known as Acrocomia Aculeata).

In Nicoya, Coyol wine is a seasonal beverage created from December to May, which is the summer or dry season in Costa Rica.  Those who make it are called “coyoleros” and the place where it is made and sold is known as a “coyolera”.

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La Pica de Leña

La Pica de Leña (Chopping firewood) a celebration that reflects the Nicoya people’s identity

  For over 470 years Nicoyans have commemorated the tradition of La Pica de Leña (chopping firewood).

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Guaitil and San Vicente; preserving the Chorotega pottery heritage.

A glimpse into the secrets of Chorotega art that has been passed down through generations.

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12 Commonly Asked Questions about Nicoya

Nicoya is a wonderful town that has nice weather, lots of interesting places to visit and friendly people.

We gathered our 12 Commonly Asked Questions about Nicoya and we hope this information is helpful for you. Continue reading

The Annexation of the Nicoya Territory to Costa Rica

The Annexation of the Nicoya Territory is an historical event that occurred on July 25, 1824 and refers to the incorporation of Nicoya, Santa Cruz and eventually Liberia into the Republic of Costa Rica.

The Nicoya Territory was originally bordered by the La Flor River and Lake Nicaragua in the northwest, and the Gulf of Nicoya and the Tempisque River in the south.

The Nicoya Territory enjoyed great political autonomy; however the territory was still under the control of the Captaincy General of Guatemala. Continue reading