Profile information
Host rating
90 %
Last replied
14 Apr 2024
Reply rate
98.4 %
Usually responds within 9 days
Feedback
61
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
Hello, I am Karla, owner of two bilingual pre kindergartens/ daycares in Costa Rica, this profile is for the one located in downtown Alajuela, very close to SJO international Airport; seeking for people to help us teach English to our students and also to come and experience the pura vida life style here in Costa Rica!
it has been such an awesome experience to learn about other cultures and meet people from all over the world. I have hosted for several people already from United Kingdom, Denmark, Canada, USA, Spain, Germany, Austria, etc :-) I am very easy going and open minded, I have lived for more than 10 years outside Costa Rica, in U.S.A. and have traveled to China, France, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, USA, Colombia, Panama and hope to keep traveling :-)
These little projects consist in providing local children with amazing multi-cultural experiences by bringing instructor or native English Speakers from all over the world to their educational habitat, to practice with a diversity of accents; our classes are totally in English though the rest of the day we speak Spanish but constantly implement English, sign language and other languages into their activities and also it includes helping our regulars teachers with their daily routines~
We will provide a very comfortable atmosphere and a very nourishing experience!
If you have more questions please do not hesitate in contacting me!
Cheers
Karla!
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
Art Projects
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Teaching
Gardening
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The traveler will benefit many ways, he or she will get to learn not only about our culture but as well as our early education system, The traveler will also be able to explore our beautiful country.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
child care and help improve english in our daycare, provide daily lessons for kids of pre-school age, hygiene and cleaning routines as well.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: FluentThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
You will be staying in a room within the premises shared only with other volunteers.
What else ...
Public transportation is very good and super cheap, so traveler will be able to move around fairly easy, visit the most common tourist site, poas volcano, la fortuna area, the pacific and atlantic are only a few hours away.
Juan Santamaría - Alajuela is the hometown to Juan Santamaría, the Costa Rican National Hero. Around the city you can see the location of his home, although now there is just a small palque and garden as the house in long gone. A block south of the Central Park is the Juan Santamaría park with a statue of the hero and a small collection of 1860s era cannons. A block north of the Central Park is the Juan Santamaría Museum, which shows some era pieces explaining the legacy of Juan Santamaría and the 1856 Campaign against the filibusters invaders, who wanted to take control of Central America.
Poas Volcano - Alajuela is the closest major city to the Poas Volcano National Park. The park is a popular desitnation for both foreign and Costa Rican tourists. Poas allows tourists to see into the crater of an active volcano. You can often smell sulfur from the crater while visiting the peak.
We are conveniently located, close to supermarkets, drugstores and malls.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Host ref number: 493658164577
Feedback (29)
22 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Julie) for host
I stayed 2 months at Karla's pre-school in Alajuela.
I haven't much to say other than I enjoyed my stay. The kids are endearing (as always), some are a bit more troublesome as they're not yet accustomed to being in a school. The colleagues are considerate and really nice to talk to (knowing some Spanish is helpful to communicate with them). The… read more
I haven't much to say other than I enjoyed my stay. The kids are endearing (as always), some are a bit more troublesome as they're not yet accustomed to being in a school. The colleagues are considerate and really nice to talk to (knowing some Spanish is helpful to communicate with them). The… read more
27 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Linda) for host
I stayed two weeks at the Society and one week at the Academy and had a really great time there! Karla and the rest of the team were always super nice and friendly and I felt really welcomed. For me was this kind of work an amazing and completely new experience that I don't want to miss! I had a really great time and beautiful moments with the… read more
23 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Rebecca) for host
I was there from the beginning of October until mid November of 2023 and I really hope things have changed since then. The project sounded super great; however there were some issues too big to ignore. From my first day on, there was a cockroach infestation and the faucet in the volunteers' bathroom was working so poorly it was only a rinse, which… read more
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.4)
Cultural exchange:
(4.4)
Communication:
(4.0)
22 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Julie) for host
I stayed 2 months at Karla's pre-school in Alajuela.
I haven't much to say other than I enjoyed my stay. The kids are endearing (as always), some are a bit more troublesome as they're not yet accustomed to being in a school. The colleagues are considerate and really nice to talk to (knowing some Spanish is helpful to communicate with them). The… read more
I haven't much to say other than I enjoyed my stay. The kids are endearing (as always), some are a bit more troublesome as they're not yet accustomed to being in a school. The colleagues are considerate and really nice to talk to (knowing some Spanish is helpful to communicate with them). The… read more
27 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Linda) for host
I stayed two weeks at the Society and one week at the Academy and had a really great time there! Karla and the rest of the team were always super nice and friendly and I felt really welcomed. For me was this kind of work an amazing and completely new experience that I don't want to miss! I had a really great time and beautiful moments with the… read more
23 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Rebecca) for host
I was there from the beginning of October until mid November of 2023 and I really hope things have changed since then. The project sounded super great; however there were some issues too big to ignore. From my first day on, there was a cockroach infestation and the faucet in the volunteers' bathroom was working so poorly it was only a rinse, which… read more
29 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Suzette) for host
My experience working here was truly beyond amazing. I really had such a great stay. The teachers were helpful and even the kids helped me with my Spanish. I stayed from March until the end of May and if I could I would go back a third, fourth and fifth time. . . Thank you to all the teachers for their kindness and patience and for teaching me so… read more
25 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Melica)
We feel so grateful to have welcomed Melica at our school, her skills and love for children were highly appreciated! We would truly welcome you anytime! We wish you the best in all of your upcoming projects! Pura Vida!
(Excellent
)
4 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Melica) for host
Leaving Alajuela after two weeks today, I feel so grateful for being able to share my love and knowledge with Costa Rican children and to see how education works here in Costa Rica! Karla and Josue were good hosts, even though we only had a few conversations, they were always very positive and with good energy! I truly enjoyed my time with the… read more
22 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Nina) for host
Spending 1 1/2 month in LGA was a wonderful and rewarding experience! The kids have so much love to give and I'm still missing their cuddles and kisses. During that time I was able to learn a lot about the work with kids, including very fast diaper changing, which is a pretty handy skill for later, I guess 😃. The LGA teachers were all very… read more
3 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Franka)
What to start with? Franka is an amazing, easy-going, thoughtful, smart and fun young woman! Thank you so much for honoring us with all your love and help! Come back anytime and don’t forget about us while in CR! Pura vida!!! We totally recommend her as a wonderful addition to any project!
(Excellent
)
18 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Franka) for host
I really enjoyed my six weeks at the school. It is a lovely pre school with kids of different ages in different classrooms, each of them with great teachers and very energetic children, who will make you feel welcomed from the beginning. You might stay with one group for a longer time or get to know all of them, both of which is very nice.… read more
5 Apr 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Justyna)
Justyna what an awesome review! Thank you!!!! It was so nourishing to have you in our lil school! Yes us preschool teachers very much understinated and therefore we try really hard to do our max effort, our rewards don’t come from adults, they come from the pure lil souls that fill ours up everyday! We really appreciated the impact you left on all… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Justyna) for host
Today is my last day in Costa Rica. I've volunteered in the kindergarten for over 3 weeks. What an experience. Joshue and Carla welcomed me to their home and business with huge smiles on their faces and kisses from the moment I have arrived.
The job itself was both extremely rewarding and exhuasting too, especially if you never worked with so… read more
The job itself was both extremely rewarding and exhuasting too, especially if you never worked with so… read more
6 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Sophia)
Sophia was a delight to have around! She immediately click with the kids and the entire staff! We would totally recommend Sophia as an amazing team member for your organization!
Gracias y pura vida Sophie!!!! :flag_cr:
Gracias y pura vida Sophie!!!! :flag_cr:
(Excellent
)
6 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Sophia) for host
Hi everyone,
I spent more than 1 month here. I came there with little experience in teaching in kindergarten and left with so many lovely experiences i made with the kids. My inicial fear of the children not liking me disappeared in the first moment i saw them and one girl hugged me with a „buenos dias teacher“.
Reading them english books,… read more
I spent more than 1 month here. I came there with little experience in teaching in kindergarten and left with so many lovely experiences i made with the kids. My inicial fear of the children not liking me disappeared in the first moment i saw them and one girl hugged me with a „buenos dias teacher“.
Reading them english books,… read more
9 Nov 2018
Left by Workawayer (Tasha ) for host
Very delayed, but better late than never! :) I volunteered at the Academy for one month and had a wonderful experience. Karla and Josue are extremely welcoming, inclusive and informative and their two sons are fun to chat with.
My primary role was as a teacher's assistant for the 2-3.5 years olds, but time may be divided between several… read more
My primary role was as a teacher's assistant for the 2-3.5 years olds, but time may be divided between several… read more
6 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Krista)
Krista having you and Eliza here was extremely enjoyable and enriching! Thanks for had taken the time to help in our project and contribute with your wonderful skills to build up our children’s development and multicultural experience!
Please come back anytime while in CR :flag_cr: Pura Vida
Please come back anytime while in CR :flag_cr: Pura Vida
(Excellent
)
2 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Krista) for host
I stayed here with a friend/fellow Workawayer for three weeks and travelled to Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio and the Poas Volcano/Starbucks coffee farm on the weekends. During my working days I mostly helped Teacher Jessica in the oldest classroom (children 3-4 years old) and tutored after-school in English (children 6-7 years old). As other… read more
6 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Laura)
Laura you are extremely friendly and helpful! Thanks for spending time building up our multicultural atmosphere! Please don’t hesitate to come back or visit while in CR :flag_cr: Pura Vida
(Excellent
)
30 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Laura) for host
Thank you Karla and Josue for hosting me, I enjoyed my time with you and living in Alajuela.
The preschool is in a great location, really close to the supermarket and 5 min walk to down town. There are buses available to visit tourist attractions on your days off.
I only spent 2 weeks at the preschool which is probably a bit too short a time as… read more
The preschool is in a great location, really close to the supermarket and 5 min walk to down town. There are buses available to visit tourist attractions on your days off.
I only spent 2 weeks at the preschool which is probably a bit too short a time as… read more
6 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Enneibaf)
Fabienne in such a short time you clicked with everyone (and Emily) greatly! Having you was extremely delightful and helpful! Feel free to come back while in CR :flag_cr:
Pura Vida
Pura Vida
(Excellent
)
26 Jul 2018
Left by Workawayer (Enneibaf) for host
With a little delay but never the less: Thanks for the great time!!! :) I stayed at the Pre-school of Josue and Carla for 3 weeks and felt very welcome and home! All the best for you!
6 Nov 2018
Left by Workawayer (Emma (Eliza) & Gideon) for host
This was a wonderful experience here. My workaway here lasted for about 6 weeks which really gave me a chance to get to know the children, staff and of course Karla and Josue and their two boys, Zaul and Isaac. All were really welcoming, helpful and inclusive. You are put right into the classroom as a teachers assistant and may rotate what age… read more
19 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Erika)
Erica is such a wonderful human being! Super fun to be around and you can feel comfortable as soon as you say Hi to her! Thank you for all your help, the children, all the staff and us will miss you greatly! PURA VIDA :)
(Excellent
)
11 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Erika) for host
Ola small geniuses :) this place is very warming and you don't have feeling to be with strangers which is really important when you're traveling alone and you don't even speak the language. LGA is place, where you see kids of every race which is not really common in Costa Rica in kindergardens , that's what creates and teach them aswell not only… read more
11 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Rose)
Awe Rose, thank you so much for your comments, we had a great time while having you in our little school, feel free to come and visit while in Costa Rica PURA VIDA!!! :)
(Excellent
)
9 Jan 2018
Left by Workawayer (Rose) for host
This was my first workaway experience ever and also my first time travelling so far away from home on my own. Naturally I was a little bit nervous before the trip. That changed the second I arrived at the academy. I felt instantly welcome and at home thanks to Karla, Josue and the other teachers. The children are absolutely amazing and it’s so… read more
11 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (masine)
Jen we had a great time with you! Holiday time in the school was busy but your help was highly appreciated! Thank you and feel free to contact us and visit us while in Costa Rica again, PURA VIDA!
(Excellent
)
20 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (masine) for host
Funny how fast you can get attached to a place. I helped out for only two weeks at the pre-school but the children are so unique and sweet, it’s hard not to miss them. Also the people who work at the school are lovely - even if they had to listen to my nonexistent Spanish skills. Ani is so patient and explained everything I wanted to know - and… read more
11 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Merle Lilly)
Merle is a very enthusiastic and energetic girl! We had a great time hosting for her! Kids had a very cool connection with her and we can highly recommend her for you project!
(Excellent
)
15 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (Merle Lilly) for host
I had 4 amazing weeks! The Kids are so cute and I really enjoyed working with them. Karla and Josue are so friendly and will help you with everything you need :)
13 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Blotière) for host
I had a really amazing 5 weeks stay in Karla and Josue's school ! They are very warm and open-minded people, and their project is one of a kind. I was really impressed by the kids' level of English, this school is a truly efficient project and I have been more than happy to bring my contribution to it. Being teacher Blue was rather tiring but… read more
18 Sep 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Carina)
Carina left a few days ago and miss her dearly! in this short time we got to really appreciate all the help and love she provided us! Thank you Carina! We totally recommend her as a team member and wish her the best in every project!
PURA VIDA! Come back soon :)
PURA VIDA! Come back soon :)
(Excellent
)
10 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Babsikern) for host
Hola!
I've stayed here for 4 weeks and it has been one of the best times of my life! Karla, Josue, their sons and the other teachers are so kind and friendly people, that I felt really welcomed from the beginning. To work with each child of the kindergarten has been so nice and I will never forget this experience. As it was my first… read more
I've stayed here for 4 weeks and it has been one of the best times of my life! Karla, Josue, their sons and the other teachers are so kind and friendly people, that I felt really welcomed from the beginning. To work with each child of the kindergarten has been so nice and I will never forget this experience. As it was my first… read more
9 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Babsikern)
Anna is so young and so talented! We are super grateful that she picked us as her Workaway Experience :) She is helpful, proactive, open-minded, respectful, and many more good qualities that we could mentioned about her! We would totally recommend her for any project as we are completely sure, she will be a great asset for any team! Thank you Anna… read more
(Excellent
)
9 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Giorgia) for host
Karla and Josue have such a great dream and they are achieving it. They have such a great school and they do all their best for it. I'm sad I had to stay for a short time but this experience helped me to find a moment of peace of mind. I'm going to miss the wonderful children. I hope one day I'll go back to Costa Rica. I want to thank you again… read more
9 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Giorgia)
Giorgia was a volunteer in our project for a little time, but she left a mark in the kids, they loved the introduction to a new language: italian and to meet her. Thank you for choosing us as your workaway experience and we wish you all the best in everything you do! And please when you come back to CR, which I'm sure you will :) dont forget to… read more
(Excellent
)
9 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
Sarah more than a volunteer, she became a friend to everyone who met her! We are so lucky to have shared this project with you :) you left a very positive mark in our children, the staff and in our hearts! We totally recommend Sarah to be part of any project as we know she will be a terrific asset to your team! And please while in CR dont forget… read more
(Excellent
)
9 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Emma)
Emma is such a wonderful person, so full of energy and positive vibes! Her volunteering in our project was super helpful and we are grateful! Thank you for choosing us as your workaway experience and while in CR dont forget to visit us! PURA VIDA!!!
(Excellent
)
18 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Céline) for host
I had the best time with Karla and Josue, such nice hosts !! Their kids are also very nice and they will make you feel at home. The school was great, the kids awesome and overall, it was just such a positive experience. If you have trouble speaking spanish, don't worry communication with kids is very easy.
I recommend highly !
I recommend highly !
15 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Céline)
Celine was a wonderful add-up to our team! Kids absolutely adored her and we did too! She did a wonderful job in our little school and we wish you the best at everything! PURA VIDA Celine!
(Excellent
)
15 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Melissa)
Thank you Melissa, you did a great job! We wish you the best at everything! PURA VIDA Melissa! :)
(Excellent
)
20 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Chlöe)
chloe was great, her job with the kids was amazing and everybody down here still miss her, thank you Chloe :)
(Excellent
)
20 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Anna)
Anna was a very nice girl, she did an awesome job with the kids, thank you Anna :)
(Excellent
)
20 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Fabienne)
Fabienne was a great help in our school, kids loved her and all our staff did too, thank you for sharing your love in our school, take care Fabienne and feel welcome to come back any time :)
(Excellent
)
20 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Madison)
Maddie was a lovely girl, very respectful and kind, it was a pleasure to have her help in our school, thank you Madison, you are welcome to stay any other time :)
(Excellent
)
3 Jan 2017
Left by Workawayer (Lina) for host
This was my first workaway experience and it couldn't have been any better!
Karla and José were just so welcoming, caring and friendly, and their two sons are veritable, open-mined sunshines. Right from the start I felt very comfortable staying with them at their home. They taught me so much about the Costa Rican culture, showed me around and… read more
Karla and José were just so welcoming, caring and friendly, and their two sons are veritable, open-mined sunshines. Right from the start I felt very comfortable staying with them at their home. They taught me so much about the Costa Rican culture, showed me around and… read more
14 Aug 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Lina)
Lina was amazing! She is a very active and open minded girl! She couldn't stay much but we truly enjoyed hosting for her!
Thank you Lina and we hope that you can accomplish all your goals!
XOXO
K, J, I & Z.
Thank you Lina and we hope that you can accomplish all your goals!
XOXO
K, J, I & Z.
(Excellent
)
13 Nov 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Fabienne)
(Excellent
)
6 Oct 2016
Left by Workawayer (Fabienne) for host
Karla and Josue built an excellent daycare with a sophisticated pedagogical concept. Even though i worked there only for two weeks, i could gain a good insight and became a part of the team. Karla and Josue are really openminded and show a lot of interest in other cultures, mentality and traditions. They are also flexible and spontanous and… read more
13 Nov 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Wanda)
(Excellent
)
11 Nov 2016
Left by Workawayer (Wanda) for host
I feel so grateful and privilege to be a Teacher Wanda for one month.
Karla and Josue are really amazing couple, very friendly, flexible and having a great approach towards the kids.
Kids in the pre-school are awesome and cute. Be careful - you may get attached very easily and saying goodbye might be not so easy...:)
Wonderful experience,… read more
Karla and Josue are really amazing couple, very friendly, flexible and having a great approach towards the kids.
Kids in the pre-school are awesome and cute. Be careful - you may get attached very easily and saying goodbye might be not so easy...:)
Wonderful experience,… read more
15 Aug 2016
Left by Workawayer (Fabiola) for host
It was a great experience, Josue and Karla are lovely and their kids are really cute and friendly you will just love the family. I spend there 2 amazing month and really hope to can meet them again in Barcelona.
Gracias por todo
Gracias por todo
14 Aug 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Fabiola)
Fabi was a wonderful help plus she went above and beyond the experience with the kids she even taught us and cooked a typical spaniard recipe: Tortilla de patata, Thank you Fabi! We wish you the best in everything! and hopefully we will meet again!
(Excellent
)
14 Aug 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Liliana)
Lily was a very special girl, she made everybody feel comfortable around! Thank you for sharing time and effort into our little project. Kids will miss you! We loved hosting for you!
Take care
Take care
(Excellent
)
18 Jul 2016
Left by Workawayer (Sonia) for host
Carla and Josue are excellent hosts. Carla is an outstanding teacher and I loved working with them both. Great accommodations. Thank you both for a wonderful experience. I miss all the beautiful children including your very sweet boys. Hope to see you again soon.
13 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Sonia)
Sonia was super awesome, it was a great experience to host for her, she was of great help and will be happy to host for her any time. thank you the kids will miss you :-)
(Excellent
)
14 Jul 2016
Left by Workawayer (Selina) for host
I really didn't know what to expect since I've never worked in a pee school / kindergarten , but I am so happy and thankful that I was able to spent 2 weeks with them (even though it was way to short!) It was a great experience and I felt at home right away. Thanks for including me in your loving family while I was staying with you guys I really… read more
13 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Selina)
Selina was Super super friendly and nice, we really enjoyed hosting for her, he was great help for us, we wish she could have stayed longer and will be happy to host for her again any time :-) Pura Vida Lina!
(Excellent
)
13 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Sandra)
Sandra is such a sweet girl, it was a pleassure hosting for her, she was of great help and will be happy to host for her again any time, we will miss you!
(Excellent
)
13 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Jessica & Carmen)
Jessica was of grreat help, she was very friendly and helpful, loved hosting for her and will be happy to do it again any time, thank you so much for all your help :-)
(Excellent
)
24 May 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Katie)
Katie was the first workawayer we hosted for and it was a great experience, she was super lovely and friendly and helped us a lot, thank you we will miss you teacher Katie! :-)
(Excellent
)
20 May 2016
Left by Workawayer (Katie) for host
Had an amazing 2 weeks living with this lovely family and helping at their wonderful daycare. Karla and Josue are the most friendly, welcoming hosts and their 2 little boys an absolute delight to live with! I had so much fun at the daycare, speaking English with all the gorgeous children and getting involved with all the activities. I really felt… read more
