We arrived at the airport in San Jose and went through customs smoothly. Our leader, Francisco Perez, and his son were there to meet us. They loaded us into a brand new van that was given to Don Francisco by the government of Costa Rica for 25 years of music and cultural education of youth. From the airport we drove east across the central valley of Costa Rica, went up a winding mountain covered with coffee plantations, then began our descent toward the plains of San Carlos. Near the base of the mountain we reached our destination, the town of Aguas Zarcus, approximately two hours from the airport. Aguas Zarcus is where we met our host families and went to the opening ceremonies of the annual 4-S Camp. During the opening ceremonies we presented the US flag and sang our national anthem. Afterwards we were divided into four groups that competed at participated in activities for the duration of the camp.

We rode in style with Francisco Perez.	Overlooking the beautiful central valley on the way to Aguas Zarcus.
Coffee is grown in the high mountains.	Taking a refreshment break on the way to Aguas Zarcus.
An evening performance at Aguas Zarcus High School.	A view of the main street in Aguas Zarcus.