IN THE SPOTLIGHT

“When I first came across Surf Synergy, recommended to me by a surf instructor I worked with in Lisbon last summer, I immediately knew that this was an experience I had to pursue. “

“I had gone through a few hard hitting life events the past year, and reconnecting with my surfing became the utmost priority to me as a way to transmute the pain I had recently experienced into pursuing an activity that has brought me some of my happiest memories. The connection that you have with the ocean when you are out in the water surfing is an unparalleled feeling, one that reminds me of the larger forces at play in life, the respect you must have for those forces, and the growth that can take place when you are willing to challenge yourself in unfamiliar territory.

Surprisingly enough, trying to find a companion to join me on the trip never crossed my mind. While I have travelled alone before, it was always to meet with friends or family upon arriving, so this was new territory for me. When I saw an opening to join the retreat on February 15th, which happened to be my birthday, I felt that going on my own was fated. Booking the trip felt like a step towards prioritizing my own needs and claiming an opportunity to connect with the ocean under the guidance of real professionals without any distractions. I could focus completely on improving my skills, in a country that I truly love for its beautiful nature and hospitable people.

While I had braced myself for the possibility that I could end up feeling isolated and lonely during the trip, from the moment I touched down in San Jose I felt beyond taken care of and embraced by the Surf Synergy team. Throughout the whole week there was a level of camaraderie amongst the guests that made my heart feel so full. Every day was approached with a curiosity for what we could each accomplish, and there was something about the supportive, non-judgemental environment that propelled our learning. I have been surfing on and off since I was a teenager, but I can honestly say I had never seen my surfing skills progress as much as they did in the one week spent at Surf Synergy. Coupled with the nourishing meals prepped freshly for us every day, the luxurious accommodations, the amazing wildlife sightings, and the healing and educational extracurricular activities scheduled, the week flew by and left me tearing up as I made my way back to the airport to return home. The sense of community and support that has been cultivated at Surf Synergy in every facet of the experience has left a lasting impression on me, and since being home all I can do is dream of the next time I can visit this special place.”

– New York solo female traveler