Hola Amigos

Hey Guys, Im on my third? day here in Costa Rica. Day 1: Ran into Dave Rutter at customs, caught a cab to our luxurious hotel Bougainvillea, met some Americans in the same program and went out to explore the Central Market of San Jose. It was something like this: A bit dirty, lots of stores mostly cheesy, cheap everything, one pickpocket attempt (failed), a bum that played guitar and sang like he was receiving an enema. Also, many whorehouses, names included ¿Por que no? (why not?) and No le Diga tu mama (Dont tell your mother) But anyway, I am being a little harsh for a city surrounded by beautiful mountains and generally friendly people. We sat down, had some Imperiales, the nacional beer, which costs $1 and is a good version of budlight. Returned to the hotel for a nice Sea Bass dinner. Also, the fruit here! QUE SABROSA! More cervezas and chilling with fellow students. Day 2: Cultural workshop in the hotel´s amazing gardens. Also placement exams and a speech by some FBI type dude on the laws here. THEN, the family! picked me up and we went to their house. If I wanted to, they speak decent english, the older sister Lin, is dating this guy from South Carolina, who is pretty chill. The whole family is indeed awesome. Because I like beer and soccer, I am an honorary Tico (Costa Rican) There are only 2 rules for me in the house, no hard liquor and no girls overnight. Everything else is game, and the mother will do my laundrey for me! Umm sweet. The neighborhood seems kind of shady but when you walk into the house, it is nice enough to generate a wow effect. We have a little bird, a small open air garden next to the kitchen, a hammock in the back, and a tv in my room. Day 3: Went with Lin on the Bus to the University, 5-10 minutes, and picked out some courses for the semester. Lunch incoming soon. On Sunday, we head to the famous Monteverde CloudForrest 10 days of spanish lessons.
Pura Vida,
Rob