TESTIMONIALS
TESTIMONIALS
In Pursuit of Happiness:
Exploring Costa Rica’s Secrets to Long life and Wellbeing
This program focuses on the following components of happiness: Belonging, Verve, Tranquility, Empowerment
GEA is partnering with the United Nations University for Peace (UPeace) in Costa Rica to offer a rich, immersive program focused on exploring happiness and learning how we can cultivate happier communities. Through workshops on positive psychology and interactive discussions, participants will learn how Costa Rica’s innovative approaches to well-being, healthcare, education, and sustainability contribute to a culture of happiness. This program blends cultural immersion, personal reflection, and professional growth, providing a unique perspective on how to foster happiness in our communities, learning environments, and within ourselves.
In addition to the educational components, participants will have the chance to experience Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty. You’ll visit one of the world’s Blue Zones, located on the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its high concentration of centenarians. The program also includes a visit to the stunning Monteverde Cloud Forest with an optional zip-line adventure through the canopy, along with opportunities to relax on the beach and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking. Participants will also explore local markets and engage with Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” philosophy, which emphasizes simplicity, happiness, and a connection to nature.
A Little on upeace
UPEACE is an institution in the United Nations system with an exclusive focus on peace education. Its uniqueness comes from its specialized UN mandate, a global and diverse community, an interdisciplinary approach to learning, hands-on educational experiences, and a strong focus on sustainable development. UPeace is also dedicated to building organizational happiness and houses the annual Gross local Happiness Summit.
Scroll down for an add-on opportunity to practice well-being at the Educators Retreat on the UPeace campus July 6th -10th.
Costa Rica
Find your Happiness Tour
$2995
(PRICE BEFORE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL)
See below how confident GEA is about asking for a fair price while providing you a quality product
The first 4 days of the program will include a retreat with horseback riding, a visit to a farm and relaxing at an all-inclusive resort and a canopy walk in the treetops of the MonteVerde area.
cultural highlights
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Pura Vida immersion
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Monteverde Cloud Forest Park
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Canopy walk
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Arenal Volcano Park
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Nicoya Pensinsula
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San Jose Colonial Center
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Stay at Eco Lodge
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Blue Zone visit
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Kayaking
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Optional horseback riding
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Optional Monteverde zip-line
Note: Details on the itinerary may still change
Stories from the Global Classroom
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
who
All interested educators, administrators and community leaders are welcome to apply. Non-educator guests will be considered based on availability. An additional fee of $150 for non-educators will be charged to cover additional expenses.
when & where
Ready to explore the details? View the Costa Rica Itinerary!
price
Costa Rica: Find Your Happiness Tour: $2995
(PRICE BEFORE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL)
early bird special
For applying before NOVEMBER 30th we will offer a special discount of 5% off the entire package.
*For people applying after the application deadline (if space is still available), we may need to add an additional 5-10% fee over the program cost, to offset the higher prices of late bookings.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Shared accommodations
Most meals and program activities (including sightseeing and entrance fees)
All transportation while on program, including flights between countries.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
Airfare to the program location and back home, airport transportation to and from our meeting and ending locations, some meals, travel insurance, add-on or upgrade options.
APPLICATION TIMELINE
Early bird special: November 30th
Priority consideration: January 15th
Final deadline: March 1st (if spaces are still available)
Zoom interviews will be held starting mid-November and through mid March and all selection decisions will be made by March 15th. A program deposit of $400 and program balance must be paid in full 2 weeks before departure.
Educators Wellness Retreat
on Upeace campus ADD-ON
$1050
Educating for Peace, Healing, and Well-Being
Nestled amidst the tranquility of Costa Rica, the University for Peace invites educators yearning for well-being, peace, and healing to a transformative retreat. Designed to nurture educators facing the challenges of today's world, this experience fosters resilience, connection, and practical tools to cultivate peace in themselves and their classrooms. Through workshops, mindfulness exercises, and immersion in a culture of peacebuilding, educators will emerge re-energized and equipped to create ripples of peace in their communities.
Part retreat, part professional development, our days will focus on slowing down and providing space for personal and relational healing practices complemented with professional development content on peace education, social-emotional learning, neuroscience, and compassion.
This exclusive 6-day retreat is an optional experience, separate from the main program. It’s your chance to break free from the daily grind and immerse yourself in inspiration, rejuvenation, and practical tools to transform your classroom. You may choose to avail this retreat and take your teaching journey to the next level.
Here's what awaits you:
Studio hotel
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5 nights of relaxation at the luxurious Studio Hotel (double room included!)
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Convenient transportation to whisk you between the hotel and the UPeace campus also included.
Energizing workshop
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Mornings filled with energizing workshops designed to spark your creativity and equip you with actionable strategies for the upcoming school year.
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Limited-edition conference t-shirt to commemorate your experience
Daily mind-body wellness sessions:
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Unwind with healing yoga
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Spark your creativity with art therapy
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Gain clarity and focus through journaling
Delicious and nutritious meals
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Breakfast daily to fuel your mornings
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Lunches Monday-Thursday to keep you energized
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Daily smoothie bar for a healthy and refreshing boost
The GEA pledges:
Our Commitment to You
At GEA, we believe happiness is not just an idea but something to be experienced. That’s why every program we offer is designed with special touches to create moments of connection, relaxation, and empowerment for our valued teachers. Here’s what’s included to ensure your well-being is prioritized throughout the experience:
Every full travel program includes:
A complimentary toast (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) during our 'GEA Happy Hour' before the welcome dinner, cultivating a space of belonging.
A Michelin Star meal (or similar level), offering a moment to connect with our senses and enjoy world-class cuisine.
A rejuvenating spa experience, providing moments of calm and relaxation.
An adventure challenge, empowering us by testing the boundaries of the familiar.
Meet Your Adventure Guides
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Quick Links
Explore the program curriculum, designed to enhance your learning journey and give you context to the region’s culture and history as well as the education system.
Take a look at the frameworks we employ that add more substance to your reflective experience.
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GEA will be doing everything to help our participants feel secure and comfortable. There are also many ways you can personally manage a safe and happy travel experience and GEA will help remind you along the way.