Earlier this summer, Bala Cynwyd Middle School Spanish teacher Señora Leslie Bullitt and a group of rising eighth and ninth grade students traveled to Costa Rica on a fun-filled and educational "Eco Tour" with EF Tours – an organization focused on experiential learning, cultural immersion and authentic connections.

Throughout the trip, the group enjoyed a perfect balance between natural and cultural experiences as students kayaked across the northern highlands' Lake Arenal, ziplined through the wildlife-rich rainforests of Monteverde and had many opportunities to experience Costa Rican culture first-hand visiting several towns and interacting with students at a local school. A great time was had by all on this once-in-a-lifetime trip, which also afforded the students a wonderful opportunity to practice their Spanish language skills.