15/04/2026
Review of Morpho Spanish School
In 2020 when I first searched for a Spanish school in Costa Rica where I could continue the journey of learning Spanish, I knew that I wanted individual instruction that was adaptable to my interests and needs. I wanted a home stay where I could practice the Spanish that I was learning and also directly observe the culture and experience home-cooked foods and “eat like a native” … because food is often a reflection of the culture and also a great entrance into the language. And I was hoping to meet other students with whom to practice the language and socialize. Those are all experiences that intensify and enhance the learning of language.
I also wanted to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica, most of which is still in its natural state.
I found all those things and more in Morpho Spanish School located in the charming small town of Orosi in the province of Cartago. One can easily walk from one part of Orosi to any other… no car needed! The town has many “sodas” (lunch cafés) where you can get a quick and nutritious “casado” (beans, rice, salad and a choice of meat). There is usually a soccer game going on in the “cancha” near the center of town, across the street from a historic and ancient church. And the people exhibit that celebrated warmth and friendliness of Costa Rica. One morning as I walked to class a woman cleaning rugs on a nearby balcony surprised me by calling out “buenos días!” It was indeed a good day.
Regarding natural beauty, Orosi is surrounded by mountains with trails that are great for exploring. The foliage of the trees and shrubs is tropically exotic. There is also a beautiful fast flowing river of crystal-clear water that runs over cobbles, and natives and tourists alike cross the river on “el puente hamaca” (the hammock bridge) suspended on cables over the river. A major natural preserve, Tapantí National Park, is a short drive from Orosi, and on weekends Costa Rican tourists visit Orosi and the nearby Park. And you can also visit an active (but currently quiescent) volcano and its caldera! And where should you go to bird-watch? Anywhere and everywhere! Many of the birds we see in February are getting ready to return to North American forests and grasslands. We like to speculate that some may be headed for OUR small town in Iowa!
My wife and I have now returned three more times to Orosi, I to practice the language and Carole to practice her journalistic trade. She decided to interview some of the citizens of Orosi about their lives here. The results are published in a blog (link). We now consider many of the residents – former and current homestays, the owners of our favorite cafeteria, my teachers and others in the community -- as old friends. I highly recommend Morpho Spanish School! It’s a great place to learn the language, experience the culture, and take in the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
Jack Y.
