The M3 class of Spice Valley Middle School left Bermuda earlier this summer for a trip to Costa Rica.

The trip, which began on May 14, was actually a science tour so that the students could see the different types of plant and wild life. The students encountered wild snakes, iguanas, monkeys, exotic birds, poison tart frogs and crocodiles.

Some students told The Royal Gazette they felt as if they were participating in a National Geographic special.

The middle schoolers also experienced "wild'' activities such as white water rafting, sky trekking in the rain forest, and horseback riding.

They even toured the Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Rain Forest and the Poas Volcano.

The students were also able to practise their Spanish. Even when they were not quite sure of a word their principal Patricia Holder, who has taught Spanish, was able to assist them.

According to students, Costa Ricans were surprised that the students tried to talk to them in their native language.

Students stayed at hotels such as the Buena Vista, which is just outside of San Jose, in Monterverde Hotel Establo, and Villabosque Hotel which is near to volcanic beaches.

Students also enjoyed a typical Costa Rican breakfast called "La Cayou Pinta'' which consist of beans and rice, scrambled eggs, sausages, and fruit.

Every one tried each dish at least once.

Costa Ricans also have a very high literacy rate which is 90 percent.

The local students and their chaperones were impressed by the intellect of the youngsters they met.

The Spice Valley students also learned about the country's economical life.

Like Bermuda, Costa Rica is very dependent on tourism. They also earn revenue from the exportation of coffee beans. They grow their own coffee beans and families pick the beans.

The chaperons, teacher Ms Melanie Burrows, Mrs. Holder, Ms Linda Casimir, Mr.

Clark Tear, Mrs. Zaynab Muhammad, Mrs. Debbie Martin, Dr. Deborah Tuzo and students said they would highly recommend Costa Rica to anyone looking for a new experience.

Class act: Spice Valley Middle School deputy principal Earl Hart enjoys watching students Tsholoni Best and Marissa Nanud at work in an art class.

Young artists: Spice Valley's deputy principal, Earl Hart, has lots to smile about as he watches two of the school's students, Jeremy Lambert and Maxwell Burrows, using their talents. The boys are two of ten students personally sponsored by Mr. Hart for the fund raising project at the Aquarium. The tile wall is expected to put in place shortly and is expected to be admired for many years to come. The students will leave a lasting impression.