In addition to the other major differences, I also noticed how the size of the town where I am living affects how people interact with each other. Since San Joaquín is pretty small, most people within the town know each other. I knew that I would stick out because besides looking racially different than most of the people I’ve seen in this town so far, I also haven’t been here long enough for people to recognize me. I definitely have gotten a lot of stares while walking down the street and eating at restaurants.
I have been able to face many of my new challenges by speaking Spanish as much as I possibly can and getting involved with my community. Ticos, for the most part, are very friendly people. I’ve been making an effort to greet people on the street and they’ve been responding well to me. My host family is always making an effort to speak to me so I can practice conversing in Spanish. They also give me lots of advice and tips on how to make the most out of my stay here. Two weeks ago, I also began volunteering at the local library, teaching English to community members. I am able to both speak Spanish more often and meet new people. Between the classes, greeting people and interacting with my host family, I now feel less like a stranger and more like a part of the community.
One phrase that my host parents taught me on my very first night in Costa Rica is “poco a poco" (little by little). It is a phrase that has meant a lot to me here because it reminds me that adjusting to a new culture and language takes time and patience. I feel a lot more comfortable here now, but there are new challenges that pop up every day.
