A Sweet Taste of Immersion

At Xperitas, we believe that language learning and cultural immersion go hand in hand. There’s no better way to experience the heart of a culture than by living it—staying with local families, attending school, and, of course, enjoying traditional foods! For one of our student travelers in Costa Rica, that meant savoring a Churchill, a beloved local dessert, during their Family Stay Experience.

But what makes a Churchill more than just a dessert? It’s a story of history, community, and Costa Rican pride.

The Churchill isn’t just any shaved ice dessert. Originating in Puntarenas, this over-the-top treat is an evolution of the classic granizado, a refreshing combination of finely shaved ice and sweet syrup. But what sets the Churchill apart? Layers of condensed milk, powdered milk, and sometimes even a scoop of ice cream—turning a simple street snack into a decadent tradition. More than just a way to cool off on a warm day, the Churchill is a point of local pride, a symbol of Puntarenas’ rich history and Costa Rica’s vibrant food culture.

Like many great culinary legends, the Churchill’s origin story is tied to one imaginative local. In the 1940s, Joaquín Aguilar Esquivel, a shopkeeper in Puntarenas, had a daily ritual—strolling along the Paseo de los Turistas and ordering his granizado with extra condensed milk and a dusting of powdered milk. His custom creation quickly caught on, and soon, vendors began offering his signature combination to other customers.

But why the name Churchill? Joaquín, affectionately known as "Quinico", bore a striking resemblance to British Prime Minister Winston Churchill—so much so that locals started calling him “El Churchill.” Before long, people weren’t just ordering a granizado—they were asking for “a Churchill,” and the name stuck. What began as one man’s inventive twist on a frozen treat became an official part of Costa Rican gastronomy.

Once the Churchill took off in Puntarenas, it didn’t take long for it to become a national treasure. Generations of Ticos have grown up enjoying this indulgent dessert, and today, no trip to Costa Rica’s "Pearl of the Pacific" feels complete without one.

Though variations of the Churchill- often called copo or granizado- can be found throughout Costa Rica, the original remains a signature of Puntarenas. The city has even inspired new creations, from Coloso Churchills (extra-large versions stacked with ice cream and fruit) to Churchill-themed milkshakes, popsicles, and even cakes. In recent years, this classic treat has become more than just a local delicacy—it’s a symbol of Costa Rican ingenuity, nostalgia, and culinary pride.

Our Family Stay Experience® ensures that students do more than visit a country; they become part of it. While other student travel programs might focus on sightseeing, Xperitas takes immersion to the next level, providing opportunities for students to engage deeply with local customs, language, and traditions. A dessert like the Churchill isn’t just a fun snack—it’s a window into the history and heart of Costa Rica.

For students and educators alike, these moments of cultural connection create lasting impressions. They reinforce language skills in real-world settings and cultivate a deeper appreciation for global perspectives. When students return home, they don’t just bring back souvenirs—they carry stories, connections, and a newfound confidence in their language abilities.

This is the magic of Xperitas Immersion Travel Programs- where every meal, every conversation, and every shared experience strengthens language skills and fosters cultural understanding. If you’re ready to give your students an unforgettable journey that extends far beyond the classroom, let’s start planning for 2026!