Mariela Vargas has been welcoming Proyecto ASIS volunteers into her home in La Fortuna, Costa Rica since 2014. A passionate plant lover and organic farmer, Mariela crafts her own Kombucha and Kefir at home — making her homestay one of the most unique in the program. Joining her is her mom Mari, who goes by María Lidia but everyone calls Mari, and who is already counting down to your next visit. We sat down with them to hear what over a decade of open doors has meant to their family.
Hola, mi nombre es Mariela Vargas. Hospedo turistas desde el 2014 con Proyecto ASIS. Me gustan las plantas y trabajo en abonos orgánicos; realizo fermentos como la Kombucha y el Kéfir.
Les presento a mi mamá, ella se llama María Lidia.
Los esperamos con mucho cariño y espero que les guste la estadía en nuestra casa.
Yo soy Mari — María Lidia — pero me dicen Mari. Ya hemos tenido la experiencia de recibir voluntarios aquí y ha sido muy agradable, una experiencia muy bonita. Espero que vuelvan pronto. Aquí los estamos esperando con los brazos abiertos.
English
Hi, my name is Mariela Vargas. I’ve been hosting tourists since 2014 with Proyecto Asis. I love plants and I work with organic fertilizers — I make ferments like Kombucha and Kefir.
Let me introduce you to my mom — her name is María Lidia.
We look forward to welcoming you with lots of love, and I hope you enjoy your stay at our home.
I’m Mari — María Lidia — but everyone calls me Mari. We’ve already had the experience of hosting volunteers here and it’s been very pleasant, a really beautiful experience. I hope you come back soon. We’re here waiting for you with open arms.
Interested in staying with a local family during your volunteer experience? Learn more about our homestay program and what to expect during your stay in La Fortuna.
📖 Also meet Carmen, one of our beloved homestay hosts → Meet Carmen
📖 Meet Rosy & Laura, hosting volunteers with heart since 2009 → Meet Rosy & Laura
📖 Meet Ester, farmer, bingo champion & host since 2015 → Meet Ester