Spanish by the SeaPuerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica
Calle 219A, in front of Hostel Kalunai - 165-7040 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - see on mapPay less than booking at the school
What we like about the school
- 5 locations, all offering the same Spanish program
- Unique eco classroom (outside)
- Set in a lush tropical garden of fruit trees and hammocks.
- Hotel / Hostel accommodation very close to school
Age of students
| Percentage of students | |
|---|---|
| 1-18 years | 10% |
| 18-24 years | 40% |
| 25-34 years | 40% |
| 35-50 years | 5% |
| >50 years | 5% |
Location: Spanish by the Sea Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is located in the naturally rich town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. The school is situated within a 5-minute walk of the coastline and has beautiful beaches, outstanding forests and everything a student may need in terms of bars and supermarkets close by. The area is popular for surfing and scuba diving, with attractions such as the Jaguar Rescue Centre, the Sloth Sanctuary and various wildlife reserves, also local to the school. The school's tropical garden and hostel offer students a unique backdrop for furthering their Spanish studies. Local shuttle buses run between San José to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
School facilities: The facilities of Spanish by the Sea Puerto Viejo de Talamanca are unique. Situated so close to the jungle and surrounded by nature, the school has a large open garden with tropical trees and plants. Its classrooms take place outside in the open air, promoting a generally friendly and relaxed atmosphere throughout the school. In addition to the garden space, the school also provides a lounge area, movie room, library, free parking, kitchen use for students and free WIFI throughout.
Social and Cultural: The school offers a wide range of activities and excursions such as trips to local indigenous reserves, the Sloth Sanctuary, Wildlife Reserves, Hiking trails, Snorkelling, River kayaking, surfing and much, much more!
Spanish Courses
General Language
Intensive Spanish
30 lessons per week
|6 students (max)
Offer!from
306US$291US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 306291 | 597568 | 872829 | 11321076 | 13871318 | 16421560 | 18971803 | 21522045 | 26622529 | 31723014 | 255243 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 306291 | 597568 | 872829 | 11321076 | 13871318 | 16421560 | 18971803 | 21522045 | 26622529 | 31723014 | 255243 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Special note for 2025 holiday season: If you plan to take a course during the high season months of April, June, July or August 2025 we urgently advise you to book as early as possible. In 2024 many schools were fully booked during the holidays and the situation is unlikely to be different for 2025 due to a current shortage of teachers, which affects most schools.
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Standard Spanish
20 lessons per week
|6 students (max)
Offer!from
230US$219US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 230219 | 444422 | 643611 | 826785 | 1005955 | 11831124 | 13621294 | 15401463 | 18971803 | 22542142 | 179171 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 230219 | 444422 | 643611 | 826785 | 1005955 | 11831124 | 13621294 | 15401463 | 18971803 | 22542142 | 179171 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Student comments about "Standard Spanish" at Spanish by the Sea
Leo
"Horrible. Do not recommend!"
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Standard Spanish 20 + Individual Lessons 5
25 lessons per week
|6 students (max)
Offer!from
306US$291US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 306291 | 597568 | 872829 | 11321076 | 13871318 | 16421560 | 18971803 | 21522045 | 26622529 | 31723014 | 255243 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 306291 | 597568 | 872829 | 11321076 | 13871318 | 16421560 | 18971803 | 21522045 | 26622529 | 31723014 | 255243 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Course specific data
General course schedule
5 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Private
Specialized - Private Spanish 10
10 lessons per week
|1 student (max)
Offer!from
241US$229US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 241229 | 490466 | 673640 | 867824 | 10551003 | 12421180 | 14301359 | 16181538 | 19931894 | 23682250 | 188179 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 241229 | 470447 | 673640 | 867824 | 10551003 | 12421180 | 14301359 | 16181538 | 19931894 | 23682250 | 188179 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Day
Course specific data
General course schedule
2 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 1 / Average: 1
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Specialized - Private Spanish 15
15 lessons per week
|1 student (max)
Offer!from
322US$306US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 321305 | 626595 | 916871 | 11891130 | 14301359 | 16711588 | 19111816 | 21522045 | 26342503 | 31152960 | 241229 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 321305 | 626595 | 916871 | 11891130 | 14301359 | 16711588 | 19111816 | 21522045 | 26342503 | 31152960 | 241229 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Day
Course specific data
General course schedule
3 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 1 / Average: 1
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Specialized - Private Spanish 20
20 lessons per week
|1 student (max)
Offer!from
386US$367US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 386367 | 750713 | 10921038 | 14141344 | 17351649 | 20561954 | 23782260 | 26992565 | 33423175 | 39843785 | 321305 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 386367 | 750713 | 10921038 | 14141344 | 17351649 | 20561954 | 23782260 | 26992565 | 33423175 | 39843785 | 321305 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Day
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 1 / Average: 1
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Specialized - Semi-Private Spanish 10
10 lessons per week
|2 students (max)
Offer!from
164US$156US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 163155 | 316301 | 459437 | 592563 | 724688 | 857815 | 989940 | 11221066 | 13871318 | 16521570 | 133127 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 163155 | 316301 | 459437 | 592563 | 724688 | 857815 | 989940 | 11221066 | 13871318 | 16521570 | 133127 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Day
This course is designed for 2 students, ideally of the same level, to work with one teacher to improve their level of Spanish.
Course specific data
General course schedule
2 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 2 / Average: 2
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Specialized - Semi-Private Spanish 20
20 lessons per week
|2 students (max)
Offer!from
245US$233US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 245233 | 474451 | 689655 | 893849 | 10971043 | 13011236 | 15051430 | 17091624 | 21172012 | 25252399 | 204194 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 245233 | 474451 | 689655 | 893849 | 10971043 | 13011236 | 15051430 | 17091624 | 21172012 | 25252399 | 204194 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Day
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 2 / Average: 2
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Language Plus Activity
Intensive Spanish + Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend
30 lessons per week
|6 students (max)
Offer!from
506US$481US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 506481 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 506481 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend includes:
- 2 days rafting
- 1 night in tents on platforms in the jungle
- breakfast, lunch and dinner
- transportation
1 week of Standard Spanish Course (from Monday to Friday) and Raft & Camp Pacuare on the weekend.
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Intensive Spanish + Yoga
30 lessons per week
|6 students (max)
Offer!from
366US$348US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 366348 | 717682 | 10521000 | 13721304 | 16871603 | 20021902 | 23172202 | 26322501 | 32623099 | 38923698 | 315300 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 366348 | 717682 | 10521000 | 13721304 | 16871603 | 20021902 | 23172202 | 26322501 | 32623099 | 38923698 | 315300 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course consists of the intensive Spanish course of 30 lessons and 3 yoga classes per week.
This does not include transportation to and from the yoga classes. Prices are subject to change.
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Standard Spanish + Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend
20 lessons per week
|6 students (max)
Offer!from
430US$409US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 430409 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 430409 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Rafting & Camp Pacuare Weekend includes:
- 2 days rafting
- 1 night in tents on platforms in the jungle
- breakfast, lunch and dinner
- transportation
1 week of Standard Spanish Course (from Monday to Friday) and Raft & Camp Pacuare on the weekend.
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Standard Spanish + Yoga
20 lessons per week
|6 students (max)
Offer!from
290US$276US$
Course Details
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 290276 | 564536 | 823782 | 10661013 | 13051240 | 15431466 | 17821693 | 20201919 | 24972373 | 29742826 | 239228 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | |||||||||||
| Price at schoolOur price | 290276 | 564536 | 823782 | 10661013 | 13051240 | 15431466 | 17821693 | 20201919 | 24972373 | 29742826 | 239228 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course consists of the standard Spanish course of 20 lessons and 3 yoga classes per week.
This does not include transportation to and from the yoga classes. Prices are subject to change.
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 55 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Morning: 8:00 - 12:00
Afternoon: 13:00 - 17:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
15 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Our prices for Spanish by the Sea include
- INCLUDED Internet access and use of school computers
- INCLUDED Wireless LAN zone at school
- INCLUDED Free certificate of course attendance
- INCLUDED Language level placement test before arrival
![Lesson outside in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca]()
Lesson outside in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca1/5![Teaching station Spanish by the Sea]()
Teaching station Spanish by the Sea2/5![Learning Spanish outside at Spanish by the Sea]()
Learning Spanish outside at Spanish by the Sea3/5![Students and teacher in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca]()
Students and teacher in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca4/5![Studying Spanish while enjoying beautiful views in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca]()
Studying Spanish while enjoying beautiful views in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca5/5
Student opinions about Spanish by the Sea, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
3.8
Overall school rating of
Spanish by the Sea, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Spanish by the Sea, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
14 authentic ratings from students who reserved with us
School
Location of the school
4.4
Facilities
2.9
Social activities
3.0
Organisation
3.3
Course
Quality of teaching
3.9
Value for money
3.3
Accommodation
Homestay
4.5
Other
3.0
Overall school rating by student age group
Students < 18 years (1 rating)
4.0
Students 18-30 years (8 ratings)
3.8
Students 31-49 years (2 ratings)
3.5
Students 50+ years (3 ratings)
4.0
Verified reviews only, uncensored. All student opinions from students who booked a course at the school with LanguageCourse.net.
Cosima
25 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“Classes take place outside in the shade between palm trees, other exotic plants and hummingbirds. The teachers are very committed and can be approached if you have any questions or problems beyond Spanish.”
Review details
Other comments The dorm is unfortunately quite small and somehow uncomfortable. The accommodations with private rooms (private bath or shared bath) are perfect (But of course also more expensive ..)! There is always the option to book a hostel in Puerto Viejo, almost everything can be reached on foot within 5-15 minutes. If you want to live far away, you can rent or buy a bike.
Course: Standard Spanish - 3 weeks
Review date: 18. Feb. 2019 by Cosima Linke
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Katharina
44 yearsOverall rating
3.0
“The teacher from Guatemala, who has been teaching for 30 years, had a very lively and refreshing way of teaching the language and also conveying something of the soul.”
“The upfront organization contained some misleading or incorrect information. Among other things, the advanced payment method (international transfer in advance) meant that I paid more and arrived less.
The emergency number I was given by the school ("24h/7 days") did not work.
The "school" consists of two open, only roofed rooms, each with a table and two benches, which is reminiscent of picnic areas. The equipment consists of two panels. In one week of instruction I received two A4 pages with exercises.
I had booked a week of group lessons with 4 hours a day. Since there was no group, this turned into 2 hours of private lessons a day. Other schools that I know make 3 hours of one-to-one lessons out of it, but there are also differences in the length of the time units ("hour").
Activities had not yet resumed due to Covid19.”
Review details
Course: Standard Spanish - 1 week
Review date: 1. Feb. 2021 by Katharina Tabbert
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Joep
22 yearsOverall rating
4.0
“Cute teacher (Elmer) and good location. Nice that the teachers are up for weekend-/ day trips”
Insider tip: “Discover the surroundings.”
Review details
Other comments Sometimes a somewhat clearer structure would have been better. 2 hour lesson might mean that your teacher is 10 minutes late and you have a 10 minute break so you effectively do have shorter lessons.
Course: Standard Spanish - 7 weeks
Review date: 13. Mar. 2017 by Joep Merkx
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Rina
18 yearsOverall rating
4.0
“The flexibility of the school and the close proximity to the beach and the village.”
Insider tip: “Visits to the waterfalls, National Park and a day trip through the jungle.”
Review details
Course: Intensive Spanish [Spanisch] - 12 weeks
Review date: 27. Nov. 2018 by Rina Bürgi
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Amanda
20 yearsOverall rating
4.0
“Good teachers and good tours and activities outside of class hours.”
Insider tip: “The dormitory at the school was not the best but it works if you only stay there for a week. For longer stays I would recommend choosing your own room, host family or another hostel.”
Review details
Course: Standard Spanish [Spanska] - 2 weeks
Review date: 2. Feb. 2018 by Amanda Wiik
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Sabine
61 yearsOverall rating
3.0
“The location is very nice, the teacher was nice and made an effort”
“There is actually no school. Two roofs at the edges of the forest and 2 teachers. I never saw the organiser. As there were only a few students, I only had 2 hours of private lessons a day. There were no activities offered by the school. There were no student meetings or anything like that. So I was completely on my own the whole time. No opportunities to get to know anyone there. This is what I had hoped for.”
Review details
Course: Standard Spanish - 1 week
Review date: 27. Feb. 2023 by Sabine Weingart
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Laura
23 yearsOverall rating
3.0
“Learn Spanish by the sea”
Insider tip: “It was my third Spanish school and I was not very satisfied. The classes often started 10 minutes late, the teacher ate during the classes or offered me his exercises found on the internet from sites I already knew. Sometimes we did the course on the terrace of one of the housing of the school on a very small table. I did not learn a lot and I was expecting more than that, I'm a little disappointed and I would not have done more than two weeks. Besides, they forgot to give me my certificate and told me that they would send it to me by email, it was never done. On Friday, they told me that they would give me my next week's schedule but they never did it, I had to go to school on Monday morning to see my schedules . It was not very professional”
Review details
Other comments I have not been very happy with the school but I do not know Spanish by the Sea more than that, I hope other schools are better!
Course: Standard Spanish [Espagnol] - 2 weeks
Review date: 23. Feb. 2018 by Laura Di Pietrantonio
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Martina
20 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“The great teachers”
Review details
Course: Standard Spanish - 3 weeks
Review date: 7. Mar. 2017 by Martina Stoop
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Laetitia
29 yearsOverall rating
4.0
“Our teacher”
Insider tip: “Bigger rooms”
Review details
Other comments Very good !
Course: Standard Spanish - 1 week
Review date: 5. Jan. 2018 by Laetitia Delahaies
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Leo
20 yearsOverall rating
1.0
“Nothing”
“That the teacher only spoke Spanish, which meant that you couldn't learn anything, as he didn't translate from English so that you could understand what was being said.”
Insider tip: “Yes, don't get classes here!”
Review details
Quality of teaching / language progress: Horrible. Do not recommend!
Course: Standard Spanish - 1 week
Review date: 28. Sep. 2021 by Leo Larsson
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Ratings of Spanish by the Sea compared to ratings of all schools in Costa Rica
| Spanish by the Sea Puerto Viejo de Talamanca | Average of all other schools in Costa Rica | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall school rating | ||
| Location of the school | ||
| Facilities | ||
| Social activities | ||
| Organisation | ||
| Quality of teaching | ||
| Value for money | ||
| Homestay | ||
| Shared flat |
Spanish by the Sea
Accreditations and Quality seals
OTEIMASpanish teacher qualifications
50% hold a university degree
80% hold a recognised language teaching qualification
Languages spoken by school staff (cannot be guaranteed by school)
First day of course
Students should arrive at 8:00
Offer for returning students
You will be refunded/waived the school's administration fee if you already attended previously a course at Spanish by the Sea and you book here.
Payment methods accepted for payments made directly to the school
Year of school foundation
2012
Legal name/parent company
Spanish by the River, SA | Tax registration ID: CPR3-101-320172
General school facilities
Kitchen for student use
Microwave for student use
Fridge for student use
Library
Movie room
Lounge
Garden
Balcony / terrace
Printer for student use
Free coffee
Free WIFI
Free parking
Non-smoking (all indoor and all outdoor areas of school)
Facilities for islamic students
Available area to pray at the school
Facilities to wash feet before praying
Classroom equipment
Ample natural light in all classrooms
- Number of classrooms: 4
Student Age / Nationality
Average number of students
In summer: 15
Throughout the year: 5
Minimum age of students
15 years
6 years for specific Junior courses
Average number of levels
Adult courses In summer: 6
Adult courses Throughout the year: 6
Average age of students
In summer: 25 years
Throughout the year: 25 years
Top student nationalities
| Student Nationality | Percentage of students |
|---|---|
| Netherlands | 30% |
| USA | 30% |
| Switzerland | 30% |
| Germany | 10% |
Information for all courses offered by Spanish by the Sea
Lesson duration
55 minutes
Course material
Generally course material is distributed free to students and will stay in student property.
Comments about courses
Spanish and activities courses are subject to availability and prices may vary throughout the year.
Days without class
In 2024 (including national and regional bank holidays):
01 Jan 2024, 28 Mar 2024, 29 Mar 2024, 01 May 2024, 25 Dec 2024.
01 Jan 2024, 28 Mar 2024, 29 Mar 2024, 01 May 2024, 25 Dec 2024.
In 2025 (including national and regional bank holidays):
01 Jan 2025, 17 Apr 2025 - 18 Apr 2025, 01 May 2025, 25 Dec 2025.
01 Jan 2025, 17 Apr 2025 - 18 Apr 2025, 01 May 2025, 25 Dec 2025.
School policy regarding bank holidays:Full number of lost classes are made up
Level test
A test to assess your exact language level takes place before the start of the course via email.
Lessons needed per Spanish language level
Data above gives some guidance. For more details consult our page How long does it take to learn a language or reach a specific level.
Airport transfer
Best arrival airport is SAN JOSE - SANTAMARIA.
More details about airports near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and how to travel independently from the airport to the city on our Puerto Viejo de Talamanca page. For flight comparisons to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, we recommend using skyscanner.com.
Visa Documents
Nationals from USA do not require a visa to study short term courses up to 180 days.
Check visa requirements for nationals from other countries.Nationals from countries that require a visa will receive documents from the school, related to booking confirmation, which is required for the visa application.
Full payment of all fees required before school dispatches documents required for visa application
No
Preferential cancellation terms in case of visa refusal
School agreed that students booking online on this site will benefit from preferential cancellation fees in case of visa refusal, and in this case will never exceed EUR 180.
Leisure activities
| activity possible | distance from school | |
|---|---|---|
| Dancing | | 0.5 km |
| Diving | | 5 km |
| Horse riding | | - |
| Swimming | | 1 km |
| Windsurfing | | 2 km |
| Yoga | | - |
Examples of leisure activities organized by the school
Adults - Free activities
Not offered
Adults - Paid activities
- Yoga class: USD 6
- Cooking class: USD 10
- Art class: USD 10
- Music class: USD 10
- Horseback riding: USD 40 (3-4 hour tour with transport included)
- Mountain bike tour: USD 50 (half-day tour)
- Canyoning and canopy: USD 75 (half-day tour with transportation and lunch/snack included)
- Salsa class: USD 6
- Cooking class: USD 10
- Art class: USD 10
- Music class: USD 10
- Horseback riding: USD 40 (3-4 hour tour with transport included)
- Mountain bike tour: USD 50 (half-day tour)
- Canyoning and canopy: USD 75 (half-day tour with transportation and lunch/snack included)
- Salsa class: USD 6
Accommodation
Guest House with Bed & Breakfast ![Most Popular Accommodation]()
Single room, Breakfast
In high demand!
2 ratings
from
237.3 US$
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 237.3 | 474.6 | 711.9 | 949.2 | 1186.5 | 1423.8 | 1661.1 | 1898.4 | 2373 | 2847.6 | 237.3 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 237.3 | 474.6 | 711.9 | 949.2 | 1186.5 | 1423.8 | 1661.1 | 1898.4 | 2373 | 2847.6 | 237.3 |
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
Check-in
Sunday 13:30-19:00
Check-out
Sunday 8:00-11:00
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
33.9 US$
(Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Single room
Includes
TV, Phone, Daily cleaning, Towels, Bedding/linen, Access to laundry service, Access to Wifi in building (Free WIFI), Shared bathroom.
Meals
Breakfast.
Minimum age of students
16
Maximum age of students
1
Hostel
Shared room (multiple beds), No meals
4 ratings
from
197.75 US$
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 197.75 | 395.5 | 593.25 | 791 | 988.75 | 1186.5 | 1384.25 | 1582 | 1977.5 | 2373 | 197.75 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 126.56 | 252.56 | 378.56 | 504.56 | 630.56 | 756.56 | 882.56 | 1008.56 | 1260.56 | 1512.56 | 126.56 |
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
Prices range from USD 16-25 per night depending on the hostel.
Check-in
Sunday
Check-out
Sunday
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
28.25 US$
(Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Shared room (multiple beds)
Includes
Shared bathroom.
Meals
No meals.
Minimum age of students
16
Maximum age of students
1
Hostel
Double room (only for 2 people travelling together), No meals
4 ratings
from
514.15 US$
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 514.15 | 1028.3 | 1542.45 | 2056.6 | 2570.75 | 3084.9 | 3599.05 | 4113.2 | 5141.5 | 6169.8 | 514.15 |
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 300.58 | 600.58 | 900.58 | 1200.58 | 1500.58 | 1800.58 | 2100.58 | 2400.58 | 3000.58 | 3600.58 | 300.58 |
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Sunday
Price per person
Prices range from USD 38-65 per night depending on the hostel.
Check-in
Sunday
Check-out
Sunday
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
73.45 US$
(Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Double room (only for 2 people travelling together)
Includes
Shared bathroom.
Meals
No meals.
Minimum age of students
16
Maximum age of students
1
Questions and answers about Spanish by the Sea
- I am a complete beginner and would like to book a group course of 20 lessons per week. When do classes take place and can a group be guaranteed at my level?“The Spanish course with 4 lessons in a group course corresponds to 2 hours of private lessons if no one else has the same level. 1 lesson lasts 55 minutes. Lessons take place between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Scheduling preferences may be honored but not guaranteed.”Richelle, from Spanish by the Sea - Nov 24, 2022
- What accommodation choices are there?“In Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, the school offers homestay accommodation. ”Ana Carolina Dos Santos, LanguageCourse.Net - Feb 02, 2023
- Which free time activities are included in the programme?“There are no activities included unfortunately. But there are activities that can be booked at the spot like surfing, diving, yoga. Through whatsapp with our director this can all be booked. If interested we will send the list!”Richelle, Administration from Spanish by the SePuerto Viejo de Talamanca - Aug 16, 2023
FAQ about Spanish by the Sea, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- We would like to do educational leave to attend a Spanish class for two weeks in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica. Are the courses certified for educational leave in Germany?“The school Spanish by the Sea is accredited by all states for the Bildungsurlaub Program. Please note that you will have to book a course with 30 lessons per week. Just let us know what your chosen dates are and we will send you more information.”Richelle Lankhaar, Reservations team from Spanish by the Sea - Nov 28, 2022
- What is the most popular accommodation offered by Spanish by the Sea?The accommodation Guest House with Bed & Breakfast is the most popular among all our clients of Spanish by the Sea
- What is the number of students per class at Spanish by the Sea?Depending on the chosen course, the maximum number of students at Spanish by the Sea varies from 1 students (Specialized - Private Spanish 10) to 6 students (Intensive Spanish)
- What is the qualification of the teachers at Spanish by the Sea?50% of teachers at Spanish by the Sea hold a university degree. 80% hold a recognized language teaching certificate.
- Which countries are students of Spanish by the Sea from?The highest Nationality percentage at Spanish by the Sea comes from Switzerland with a 30% representation, followed by students from Netherlands (30%) and USA (30%).
- Is this price lower than booking directly with the school?Yes, there is an exclusive discount that only applies when booking online here.
- Spanish by the Sea offers courses for which ages?Spanish by the Sea offers courses from 15 years to 99. Average age is 25 during the summer and 25 for the rest of the year.
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Spanish by the Sea Puerto Viejo de Talamanca | Reviews
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Puerto Viejo de Talamanca city attractiveness rated by our students:
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