23 Essential Spanish Expressions for Your School Trip to Costa Rica
Language is one of the most powerful ways for students to connect with local culture during their school trip - and learning Spanish expressions for Costa Rica makes that connection even stronger. Whether they’re greeting a host, ordering a meal, or thanking a guide, using these phrases builds confidence, breaks the ice, and shows cultural respect.
These 23 phrases aren’t just practical - they open the door to immersive, real-world language learning. We encourage teachers to review these with their students before departure and practice them during the trip!
1. Pura vida
Literal meaning: "Pure life"
Used for: Hello, goodbye, thank you, you’re welcome, everything’s good
Why it matters: This phrase defines Costa Rican culture. Locals say it with warmth and sincerity. When your students greet someone with “¡Pura vida!”, they’re connecting immediately to the local rhythm and way of life.
2. ¿Cómo estás?
Meaning: How are you?
Why it matters: A great first question to start conversations with locals - especially with guides, host families, or students at local schools.
3. Estoy bien, gracias.
Meaning: I’m good, thank you.
Why it matters: A polite and simple way for students to respond. Combine it with a smile and you've got instant rapport.
4. ¿Cómo te llamas?
Meaning: What’s your name?
Why it matters: A great icebreaker when meeting local youth or community members. Teach students to ask with eye contact and interest.
5. Me llamo…
Meaning: My name is…
Why it matters: Self-introductions help students gain confidence when practicing Spanish. Great for group activities with local schools.
6. Mucho gusto
Meaning: Nice to meet you
Why it matters: Encourages respect and politeness, especially when greeting teachers, cooks, or artisans they’ll meet during the trip.
7. ¿Hablas inglés?
Meaning: Do you speak English?
Why it matters: This phrase empowers students to navigate bilingual spaces respectfully. It also helps frame interactions when they get stuck.
8. No entiendo
Meaning: I don’t understand
Why it matters: A critical phrase that helps students stay engaged in conversations even when they’re learning. It shows honesty and effort.
9. Por favor
Meaning: Please
Why it matters: Reinforces polite, respectful language - especially when ordering food, asking questions, or getting assistance.
10. Gracias
Meaning: Thank you
Why it matters: Students should say this multiple times a day - to drivers, guides, chefs, teachers, and peers. Gratitude builds connection.
11. De nada
Meaning: You’re welcome
Why it matters: A simple reply to gracias, showing that students are comfortable both giving and receiving polite language.
12. Perdón / Disculpe
Meaning: Excuse me / I’m sorry
Why it matters: Great to use in crowded markets, when interrupting, or if students accidentally bump into someone. Teaches personal accountability.
13. ¿Dónde está el baño?
Meaning: Where’s the bathroom?
Why it matters: Possibly the most practical phrase on this list! Students should know how to ask this right away.
14. ¿Cuánto cuesta?
Meaning: How much does it cost?
Why it matters: Encourages students to interact during market visits, and provides hands-on experience with numbers, budgeting, and currency.
15. La cuenta, por favor
Meaning: The bill, please
Why it matters: Helpful during group meals or student-run lunch excursions. A key phrase for navigating real-world restaurant scenarios.
16. Un momento, por favor
Meaning: One moment, please
Why it matters: This shows patience and politeness when students need a little extra time - especially if they’re formulating a question or answer in Spanish.
17. Tico / Tica
Meaning: A Costa Rican man/woman
Why it matters: This is how locals refer to themselves. It's great for students to understand how Costa Ricans identify - and to use it respectfully.
18. Mae
Meaning: Dude, buddy, mate
Why it matters: Common among younger Costa Ricans. Students will hear this often, especially from local teens. It makes Spanish feel less formal and more fun - but should be used casually and appropriately.
19. Tuanis
Meaning: Cool, awesome
Why it matters: A unique Costa Rican slang word (derived from “too nice”) that students love. Great for responding to amazing moments on the trip.
20. ¡Qué chiva!
Meaning: That’s so cool!
Why it matters: Perfect for student reactions when spotting wildlife, zip-lining, or discovering something new. Brings excitement into their Spanish vocabulary.
21. ¡Qué lindo!
Meaning: How cute / beautiful
Why it matters: A versatile compliment. Students can use this when talking about places, animals, or experiences.
22. ¡Qué rico!
Meaning: How delicious!
Why it matters: After trying gallo pinto, fresh fruit, or homemade empanadas, this is the go-to expression to show appreciation for food.
23. Con gusto
Meaning: With pleasure
Why it matters: A gracious way locals reply to gracias. It teaches students how deeply rooted hospitality is in Costa Rican culture.
Final Tip for Teachers
These Spanish expressions can easily be turned into a daily challenge.
Encourage students to use 2-3 of these expressions each day. Celebrate their efforts - even if imperfect - and watch as confidence and connection grow with each interaction.
Want to integrate language learning into your next Costa Rica school trip? Let Evolve Tours plan a bilingual and immersive experience that meets your curriculum goals and inspires global-minded learners.
📞 Let’s Start Planning
Email: info@evolvetours.com
Phone: 1-888-222-5066
Website: www.evolvetours.com
