Guest Bio

Rolando Campos is the founder of Chayote Lodge, a boutique retreat nestled in the mountain village of Llano Bonito de Naranjo, Costa Rica. With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry and a career that took him to more than 60 countries, Rolando combines a global perspective with deep local roots. He believes Costa Rica’s true strength lies in its people, which is reflected in the authentic experiences offered at Chayote Lodge. Since opening in 2015, the lodge has become known for its intimate setting, scenic views of four volcanoes, and a focus on genuine connection with both nature and community.

Show Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Rolando Campos about his journey from working in the global travel business to founding Chayote Lodge in a remote Costa Rican mountain village. Rolando shares insights into the lodge’s unique location, far from the typical tourist routes but still close to major attractions like Arenal Volcano and San Jose airport.

Rolando discusses the inspiration behind the lodge’s coffee-themed design and how his childhood experiences shaped his vision. He explains how Chayote Lodge emphasizes a home-like atmosphere, treating guests as lifelong friends, and highlights the importance of connecting visitors with local culture through activities such as coffee tours, cooking experiences, and nature walks. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of building a tourism business in a rural area and the meaningful role travel plays in supporting local communities.

Throughout the discussion, Rolando stresses the value of appreciating Costa Rica’s beauty through fresh eyes, a perspective he gained after spending a year as an exchange student in Missouri. He encourages travelers to explore beyond popular destinations and embrace the pura vida lifestyle that defines Costa Rican culture.

Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Guest support helps make the episode possible, but it does not determine who is featured. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations.

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