Meet Our Team
Roland: Host & Leader
Hello! My name is Roland, and I’m thrilled to host this unforgettable surfing adventure for parents and kids this June. My family fell in love with Nicaragua in 2022, and after our first three-week visit, we returned the following winter to spend a full season in San Juan del Sur — a place that now feels like our second home.
It was there that my eight-year-old son (he’s ten now) and I discovered our love for surfing. Taking lessons together became more than just a fun challenge — it’s now a shared passion that deepens every time we hit the waves. Growing up in Ontario, I never even saw the ocean until my 20s, so I never imagined surfing would become part of my life. But this experience has been life-changing, and I want to share it with other families.
Beyond surfing, I’m an Ottawa-based professional musician, concert producer, and choir director with experience leading international music and educational tours across Europe and Central America. Organizing meaningful travel experiences is what I love to do, and combining my passions for family, adventure, and surfing makes this trip especially meaningful. I can’t wait to meet you and share this adventure together!
Our Trusted Partners
While I’ve designed and organized this adventure, I’m not doing it alone! I’ve partnered with Arena Caliente Surf School — one of Nicaragua’s most respected surf schools — and Golden Tour Nicaragua, a top-rated local tour operator specializing in adventure travel and logistics, to coordinate a safe, seamless, and fun experience for all.
In Canada, I work with WestJet Groups, UniGlobe Travel and ADG Media Solutions for travel and back-end support to make your journey as smooth as possible from start to finish. With a trusted team handling every detail, you and your loved one(s) will be free to relax and enjoy a stress-free adventure.
Arena Caliente Surf School
Founded in 1999 by three brothers from San Juan del Sur, Arena Caliente Surf School has grown into one of Nicaragua’s most respected surf schools. They exclusively employ local instructors, supporting both the regional economy and the country’s vibrant surf culture. Their award-winning coaches bring experience, passion, and personalized attention to every lesson. As a close-knit, family-run operation, the school provides everything from transportation to surfboards and gear, all as part of their commitment to safe, fun, and professional instruction for surfers of all levels.
Testimonials
Praise For Roland’s Tours
“I thoroughly enjoyed Roland’s tour and would most certainly recommend it to others. It was a very good blend of well-planned tourism and great fun with new friends. Excellent value!” — Michael
“A fun and rewarding experience & I doubt I would have thought of visiting Nicaragua if this opportunity had not come up, and I am glad I decided to participate. Nicaragua is a beautiful country.” — Frances
“I had never been to Central America—the trip led by Roland was truly wonderful. A great exposure and learning experience.” — Cindy
“Nicaragua exceeded my expectations, for its gentleness, safety, friendliness, beauty, lack of crowds, and wonderful cuisine.” — Rosalind
What Families Love About Arena Caliente Surf School
“100% recommend Arena Caliente Surf School! It was my first time ever surfing, and the coaches made me feel very relaxed and taught me so much. Working with them gave me an extremely memorable and fun experience!” — Elizabeth
“My sons, 5 and 8, had a lesson and I couldn’t recommend it more. The instructors were knowledgeable, patient, and fun! They made us and our boys feel super safe the entire lesson.” — Shalana
“The greatest experience! The instructors were fantastic with my 7 and 9-year-olds. The kids felt super comfortable and were able to surf for the first time! The instructors put safety first, briefly pausing the lessons when the kids got tired. Because of that, the kids recharged and ended the lesson catching a ton of waves!” — Jen
“Arena Caliente was amazing! The instruction was perfect, and they did a fantastic job helping us feel comfortable in the water for our first time surfing! They were also amazing with our kiddos. 5 stars!” — Christina