The Globetrotter with EF: 12-Week Gap Semester (Costa Rica, Rome, and Tokyo) Recently Updated

This 12-week program is a true global adventure—spanning Latin America, Europe, and Asia. From surfing in Costa Rica to exploring ancient Roman ruins and navigating Tokyo’s futuristic neighborhoods, this program blends immersive language learning with hands-on cultural exploration across three continents. 

Sample Program Itinerary:

Weeks 1 - 2: Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Over the course of your stay in Tamarindo, spend time learning to ride the waves with surf lessons on the town’s golden beaches, and later journey to the Ostional Wildlife Reserve, where you’ll witness sea turtle conservation efforts and the magic of nesting season along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

Weeks 3 - 4: Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Set out on a day trip to Rio Celeste to hike through Tenorio National Park, explore volcanic landscapes, and marvel at the turquoise waterfall, then venture by boat through nearby mangroves, spotting crocodiles, tropical birds, and other wildlife along the way.

Costa Rica Highlight Getaway: Weekend trip to the Arenal Region

Visit the beautiful Arenal Volcano, go hiking, relax in hot springs, see the La Fortuna Waterfall, and go rafting through the rainforest.

Weeks 5 - 6: Rome, Italy

Take a guided walk through Roma Antica to uncover the city’s ancient past, roll up your sleeves for a pasta and gelato making class with a local chef, and spend a day exploring the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, home to some of the world’s most celebrated masterpieces.

Weeks 7 - 8: Rome, Italy

Visit Gelateria Fassi, one of Rome’s most famous gelaterias, to learn the art of traditional gelato-making, then take a day trip to Pompeii to walk among the remarkably preserved ruins of the ancient city.

Rome Highlight Getway: Day trip to Florence

Take a day trip to Florence, where you’ll wander Renaissance streets, admire masterpieces at world-class museums, and soak in the city’s charm from the iconic Ponte Vecchio.

Weeks 9 - 10: Tokyo, Japan

Explore Tokyo’s historic Asakusa neighborhood with a visit to the iconic Sensoji Temple, then join a sushi-making class with a local chef to master one of Japan’s most beloved culinary traditions.

Weeks 11 - 12: Tokyo, Japan

Take part in a traditional tea ceremony at a local tearoom, spend an evening singing with friends at a lively karaoke night, and take in sweeping city views from the top of Tokyo Skytree.

Tokyo Highlight Getaway: Weekend trip to Kyoto

Travel by bullet train on a two-day adventure to Kyoto, where you’ll explore Japan’s most celebrated temples and shrines.

This program starts at $18,000 and includes:

Interactive language classes

Spanish in Tamarindo, Italian in Rome, and Japanese in Tokyo, offered at all learning levels.

Activities & excursions

2-3 cultural activities per week, and 1 overnight weekend excursions or extended day trip per location.

Flights & transportation

Internal flights and transfers between locations, including airport pick-up.

Room & board

Accommodations in an EF Student Residence with other members of your cohort.

EF Global Support Network

One-on-one mentorship and 24/7 travel support before and during your program.

Travel protection

Enrollment and cancellation protection fees included.