What Happens when Lifelong Hobbies Head to a New Continent?
As a photographer, surfer, and solo traveler, Dilara’s time at School of The World was a well-anticipated bucket-list adventure.
Traveling to Jacó, Costa Rica from Germany, Dilara, 31-years-old, was prepared for a typical experience when traveling abroad.
With it being her first time traveling to Central America, she researched various surf schools in the region. Surfing in different cities and countries throughout her life, one of her dream surf spots was Costa Rica. Dilara ultimately selected School of The World because it also checked the box on another one of her passions: photography.
A Place to Nurture Your Passions
SOTW: We love learning about what our students do when they’re not solo-traveling around Costa Rica. What is your life like at home, in Germany?
Dilara: Germany has and always will be my homebase. I live in a small German village with my parents and my brother, and we have a lot of animals that we consider part of our crew.
Traveling, surfing, and photography are three of my long-time passions, but teaching others is another skill that has turned into something I love. When I’m not out exploring, I work as an educator. I love my job because it allows me to help others, and show them the importance of learning.
As a lifelong learner, I believe that there’s always something someone else can teach you, even if it’s about a topic or subject that you consider yourself an expert in.
SOTW: We’re so glad you found value in our offerings! Tell us more about the courses you took while you were at the school!
Dilara: Like I’ve mentioned, I am an avid surfer. I’ve surfed in amazing places all over Europe, but this was my first time surfing in Costa Rica – one of the world’s most famous surf capitals.
Having the opportunity to take surf and photography lessons was what sealed the deal. Catching the perfect wave, and the perfect sunset shot…what could be better?
My surf instructors, Creighton, Juan, and Yogi were amazing. They provided tips that were specific to surfing the waves in Jacó, and taught me new ways to navigate the surf. Surfing the Pacific ocean was an experience like no other. I’ll never forget the first time I set out on my board. As I was catching my first wave I looked out and saw the palm trees swaying on the coast, and spotted the famous macaws flying overhead. If I would have had my camera, it would have been the perfect shot.
Speaking of photography, I loved exploring Jacó and the surrounding area with my instructor, Sergio. On my last outing we spotted some wild toucans, and I got some amazing shots. Photography is such an amazing way to capture moments and memories, and I was thankful to be able to practice my passions in such a beautiful place.
Beyond the School
SOTW: It sounds like you had an amazing time with our instructors. Tell us more about your experience with the other students!
Dilara: A big lesson I’ve learned during my solo travels is the importance of connecting with others. Lucky for me, my roommate was from Switzerland and also spoke German! Sometimes, when you’re so far away from home, it’s nice to have little connections like language that make you feel closer to those around you.
On my first day at the school, after our surf and photography classes, my roommate gave me the grand tour of Jacó. She showed me around the town, and we ended at what became my favorite bar and restaurant, Green Room! Later that evening we went back to Green Room, along with some other students, for salsa dancing and cocktails!
SOTW: We LOVE Green Room! It’s hands down one of the best cafés in town! We’re so glad you had such an amazing experience not only during your lessons, but also exploring our little town. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your time at School of the World?
Dilara: With it being my first time to Central America, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I can say now is that Costa Rica exceeded my expectations!
The surfing was amazing, even better than I imagined. The landscape is incredible. The ocean mixed with the rainforest is unlike anything I’ve seen during my travels across Europe. Lastly, the people that I met during my stay made School of The World and Jacó feel like home.
The locals in Jacó are some of the warmest people I’ve ever met while traveling, and my fellow students that I shared the school with have turned into life long friends.
The only thing I would change about my time at the school would be to plan a longer trip! Jacó, the Pacific ocean, Costa Rica, and the School of The World will always have a special place in my heart. Pura Vida!
SOTW: We’re so happy that you’re part of our family, Dilara. Buena suerte and keep surfing!
