Annika Nygren

Nickname
Niq/ Niqs (“Neeks”)

Where did you grow up?
Sudbury, Massachusetts

Where do you call home now?
Boulder, Colorado

Year started at Global Works?
2020

What’s your favorite part about leading trips?
Watching students as they form deep and lasting friendships and their leadership skills and styles begin to emerge

What is something you can’t live without while you are traveling?
My journal! Where else can I record recommendations from the people I meet and jot down the highlights of my days?!

Tell us about a favorite memory from a trip you have taken
Last summer when I was traveling in the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica. I met a family who took me under their wing and I was able to learn how they have been living off the land and off the grid for over 30 years on the outskirts of Corcovado National Park!

Where is your favorite place you have traveled to?
Costa Rica! Iceland is a close second

Fun fact, special talent, or favorite memory
I was born in Sweden

What do you like to do in your free time?
Practice Yoga, read, try new baking recipes, and go for hikes with friends!

What languages do you speak?
English, Swedish, and Spanish

If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first travel experience, what would it be?
Don’t waste your time looking for wifi! The social media posts and emails will still be there when you get back to your regular routine. Record what you were grateful for each day of your travels in a journal so you can pull upon those happy memories when you are missing those times!

Tell us why you are excited for this year’s trip!
I can’t wait to share in the beauty and kindness of Costa Rica’s people, lush habitats, and diverse wildlife as well as to be surrounded by the Spanish language and Central American culture at all times!