1. COSTA RICA Study Abroad Winter Intersession 2017/2018

2. We are there to study… Economic development Tourism and ecotourism
Sustainability practices
Learn while touring one of the most environmentally focused countries in the world.

3. Where we are heading to…
Pal Michal (coffee growing region in rural area)
Monteverde (in the cloud forest)
Rancho Margot (UNESCO sustainable farm)
Arenal/La Fortuna (home of Arenal volcano)
La Altura (rural village to visit school community)
Manuel Antonio (on Pacific Ocean)
BriBri Indigenous community (Central Pacific)
Playa Ventana/Dominical (Pacific beaches)

4. Learn about banana, pineapples, sugar, and coffee industries

5. Visit cloud forests and learn about conservation and reforestation efforts.

6. Trek in the rainforest and learn about flora, fauna…

7. See Exotic Wildlife in their natural environment

8. Visit sustainable farm (NEGATIVE carbon footprint)… part of the UNESCO biosphere reserve.

9. Live in an indigenous village at a community-based ecotourism project

10. Interact with locals in meaningful ways

11. Experience ecotourism and see projects that contribute to the economy and environmental protection

12. Experience the Pacific or Caribbean (depending on year)…

13. Travel off the beaten path…and have an adventure.

14. See daily doses of beauty!

15. Econ 301: Sustainability, Ecotourism, and Economic Development in Costa Rica
Prerequisite: NONE
Course open to all majors
Material taught in very accessible way
Class taught online before departure and finished abroad
No book to purchase
Waives Gen Ed Goal 9 (which creates 3 free-electives)
Instructor: Dr. Melanie Marks

16. Econ 301: Sustainability, Ecotourism, and Economic Development in Costa Rica
Topics include:
Economy of Costa Rica and Latin America
Sustainable Development
Banana, pineapple, palm oil, coffee industries
Tourism and Ecotourism
Role of Trade and Fair Trade Movement
Green GDP measures
Social Issues

17. Expected Cost: $2199
Includes airfare, housing, domestic transportation, activity fees, and almost all meals.
Payments spread over several months.

18. Interest Meetings March 16 @ 3:45 Hiner 201 March 21 @ 3:45 Hiner 210
April 3:45 Hiner 201
April 3:45 Hiner 201

19. Questions? Contact Dr. Marks at marksmb@longwood.edu
Ready to sign up?
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Questions? Contact Dr. Marks at