Two Trips, Two Experiences: Lucas Shares His Costa Rica & Bali Teen Volunteer Journey.
We recently caught up with Lucas and his mom, Stacy, after Lucas returned from his second teen volunteer adventure with us, this time on our Sea Turtle Volunteering & Adventure Tour.
Watch the full interview here:
Having already joined us in Bali last year, Lucas had a unique perspective: two destinations, two styles of programs, and two very different experiences.
If you’re a teen wondering which trip might suit you – or a parent debating whether to take the leap, here’s their honest recap.
Costa Rica: A Road Trip Full of Wildlife & Adventure
Fresh off the plane, Costa Rica was still vivid in Lucas’s mind.
His favorite stop?
Manuel Antonio National Park
“It was really cool. We got to walk around and see all the animals… and at the end of the hike there was a beach. That was probably my favorite part.”
This itinerary covered a lot of ground. Waterfalls, beaches, national parks — each day brought something new.
“Every day we were traveling around and seeing something. I prefer that, doing stuff all day.”
For teens who love structure, sightseeing, hiking, and packed days, Costa Rica delivered.
A Fully Guided Experience
One big difference from Bali? The structure.
In Costa Rica, their coordinator Alejandra was with them about 90% of the time.
“It was a lot different this time… she was with us almost the whole time, which was good.”
Lucas appreciated having a knowledgeable local guide throughout the journey, especially in a country where language and logistics can feel more complex.
And when it came to learning?
“I feel like I learned the most from her… about the foods, the language, the history, the culture.”
The Turtle Conservation Work
At the turtle camp, the work was focused and educational.
“It was more to teach us how to do things safely and correctly.”
Mornings or late nights were spent patrolling the beaches for nests, typically 3–4 hours at a time.
Lucas was honest that the camp had more downtime than he expected, something some teens enjoy and others don’t.
“There was some downtime… but maybe other people liked that.”
For teens who enjoy quiet time by the beach, unplugging, journaling, bonding, or just soaking in the environment, that space can be meaningful. For teens who prefer constant activity, the earlier travel days might be the highlight.
Making Friends: “It’s Hard Not To”
For teens nervous about not knowing anyone:
“It’s kind of hard not to get to know everyone because you’re with them for so long.”
He also pointed out something we often tell parents:
“Everyone is kind of like you. They want to volunteer and help. That gives you something in common right away.”
Shared purpose makes connection easier.
From a Parent’s Perspective
For Stacy, communication made all the difference.
“You guys are super responsive. The WhatsApp chats are great… we were getting pictures and updates almost every day.”
She compared it to Lucas’s previous travel experience, where parents heard nothing for two weeks.
“At least we knew our kids were alive.”
For parents sending 15–17-year-olds abroad – sometimes for the first time – that reassurance matters.
But beyond safety and updates, Stacy emphasized something bigger:
“It gives them such a sense of independence.”
Lucas still keeps in touch with friends from last year, from Australia, Sweden, and across the U.S. Travel plans are already being discussed for the future.
Bali vs. Costa Rica: What’s the Difference?
Because Lucas experienced both, he broke it down simply:
Costa Rica
More structured
More guided
More sightseeing across the country
Ideal for teens who like organized days and planned activities
Bali
More freedom
More independent exploration
Larger volunteer hub
Ideal for teens who enjoy choosing their own restaurants, walking the beach, and having more autonomy
“It depends on the place… Bali felt easier to explore on our own because it’s an island and very tourist-friendly.”
Different personalities will thrive in different environments and that’s exactly why we offer both styles.
Advice for Future Teens
You’ll make friends even if you’re shy.
You’ll probably pack too much.
Expect it to feel different from a “normal” vacation in a good way.
“It met my expectations. It was what I expected.”
