In the heart of Costa Rica, where the lush jungle meets the pristine coast, there exists a haven of luxury, adventure, and surf. Kalon Surf, an all-inclusive surf resort, isn’t just any resort — it’s a step into a world where relaxation, culinary delights, and the ocean are ingrained in the very chemistry of the people of Costa Rica.
Nestled in this tropical paradise is a story of passion, vision, and the power of collaboration.
The visionaries behind Kalon Surf
Kjeld Schigt — a man who has visited the world, working for multinational giants like BP, Heineken, and Unilever — visited Costa Rica and fell in love with its wild, yet serene nature and decided to settle down. In 2011, he embarked on his mission to create the finest surf school in the region: Kalon Surf.
With this mission in mind, and fueled by an unshakable love for surfing and a profound dedication to nurturing a vibrant surfing community, Schigt got started. “This surf school isn’t just about catching the best waves,” he says, “but about providing a gateway for people to rediscover their innate connection with nature, unearth their inner surfer, and immerse themselves in the unspoiled wild nature of this tropical paradise.”
However, what sets the story of Kalon Surf apart is not just Schigt’s determination, but the collaborative effort of a dynamic partnership. Alongside him stands Silene Vega Delgado, a Costa Rican native born in San José, whose transition to a career focused on positive impact led her to discover her true calling within Kalon Surf.
It wasn’t just a career pivot, but a profound shift in perspective — a life dedicated to positively impacting the lives of others. According to Delgado, her passion is to inspire others to pursue their dreams and to make those dreams a reality. Her ability to infuse every aspect of Kalon Surf with a sense of purpose, and her genuine love for interacting with guests, have made her an invaluable part of the resort’s success story.
Together, Schigt and Delgado have become the driving force behind Kalon Surf, a resort that goes beyond the conventional. Their dedication to enhancing the local community, fostering a love for surfing, and providing an exceptional guest experience is a testament to the transformative power of shared dreams and unwavering commitment.
Lessons in running a resort together
Running a resort, especially in the midst of the lush jungles and pristine coastlines of Costa Rica, is a journey fraught with challenges and triumphs. Schigt and Delgado have embarked on this remarkable adventure together, and in doing so, they have garnered invaluable lessons about the art of running a resort as a couple and as business partners.
Complementary strengths
One of the foremost lessons Schigt and Delgado have learned is the power of complementary strengths. Schigt’s background in multinational corporations brought a wealth of organizational and managerial skills to the table, while Delgado’s expertise in business and finance added a strategic edge.
Together, their skills harmonize to create a well-rounded approach to managing Kalon Surf. They have come to appreciate that their diverse skill sets not only enhance the resort’s operations, but also enrich their partnership.
Effective communication
Successful teamwork hinges on effective communication — a lesson that Schigt and Delgado hold dear. They have discovered that open and transparent communication is vital, whether it’s discussing business strategies, addressing challenges, or simply sharing their visions for the future of Kalon Surf. Clear communication not only fosters unity, but also ensures they are always on the same page when making critical decisions.
Balance between work and personal life
Balancing work and personal life can be a challenge when you are running a resort together, but Schigt and Delgado have realized the importance of setting boundaries and making time for each other outside of the business. They have come to understand that nurturing their personal relationship is key to maintaining a harmonious professional partnership.
Adaptability and resilience
Operating a resort in a dynamic environment like Costa Rica demands adaptability and resilience. Over the years, Schigt and Delgado have encountered unforeseen challenges, from natural disasters to logistical hurdles. These experiences have reinforced their ability to weather storms — both literal and metaphorical.
A shared vision
Perhaps the most significant lesson of all is the importance of a shared vision. Schigt and Delgado’s mutual passion for surfing, their commitment to enriching the local community, and their dedication to providing an exceptional guest experience have been the driving forces behind Kalon Surf’s success. They have learned that a shared vision not only unites them in purpose, but also inspires their team and guests to believe in the magic of Kalon Surf.
Kalon Surf isn’t just another surf resort in a tropical paradise, it’s a surf resort made with both the expatriate and local in mind nestled in the coastal jungles of Costa Rica, minutes from the excellent surf Central America has to offer. Schigt and Delgado — an expatriate and a local, the two visionaries behind it all — married their ideals both figuratively and literally, and produced the wonderful luxurious surf resort that is Kalon Surf.
Because of their commitment to each other and Kalon Surf, this power duo has been able to work together and create a successful surf resort for everyone to enjoy. It’s a tropical haven for those who want to get away for just a little while and experience good surf, good food, and good company.
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