Travis Bays
California, USA
At Bodhi Surf + Yoga, Travis Bays is known as the connector and the "ideas guy", always dreaming up new projects to take on, finding ways to connect (or connect with) individuals and movements, and looking for ways to improve himself and everything around him. A former Peace Corp Costa Rica volunteer who spent his two service years in Bahia Ballena, Costa Rica, Travis feels privileged to have been able to start a social and environmental impact business in the community that stole his heart and affected his life so positively. Professionally, aside from being a social and environmental entrepreneur, Travis is also a consultant for the Stanford Woods Institute for the environment, and has over 15 years of experience in micro credit community banking, project design and management, and best practices for sustainable tourism. He is a co-founder of SOMOS community foundation, and the Central American Ambassador for the Transformational Travel Council. He is a committed husband and father, ardent surfer, and ocean lover, and enjoys incorporating his passions into his wide array of roles at Bodhi Surf + Yoga.
Pilar Salazar
San Jose, Costa Rica
Pilar is the grounding energy of the Bodhi Surf + Yoga team. Her calm composure and "Pura Vida" vibe are evident to all who meet her. She has worked in the tourism industry in Costa Rica for nearly two decades, and is so excited to have been able to open her own tourism company in what she considers to be one of the most beautiful areas of her home country. Pilar brings what she has learned in her career, from her myriad of travels all over the globe, and from personal study of world philosophy, into her various roles Bodhi. She is the main yoga teacher, as well as being in charge of administration, human resources, bookings, and logistics. Pilar is passionate about creating a positive, safe, and hospitable workplace for all of Bodhi's staff. Outside of Bodhi, she is a Board of Directors member of the nonprofit Fundacion Los Valientes. Personally, she is an engaged wife and mother (dance mom!), avid foodie and cook, passionate yoga practitioner, and lifelong student of the human condition.
Maya Paz Bays
Bahia Ballena, Costa Rica
Maya is the first daughter of Travis and Pilar, and as such, has already had more exposure to yoga and surfing than most of our guests! She is extremely helpful in operations, with her great attention to detail, outgoing personality, and wisdom beyond her years. Whether it's helping with table set-up and takedown, double checking the chalkboard schedule, or entertaining and engaging with the guests, Maya is an excellent team player! She is a very curious, intelligent, and independent child who loves nature deeply and abides by the Bodhi principles of respecting and helping preserve the environment. In her spare time, she loves to dance and hang out with her friends.
Clea James Bays
Bahia Ballena, Costa Rica
As the second daughter of Travis and Pilar, Clea pretty much loves the same things as her sister, and of course, idolizes Maya! She is also helpful around the Bodhi lodge, especially with entertaining the guests with her daredevil antics. She is very inquisitive and adventurous child, she loves nature and being outdoors and especially at the beach. Clea enjoys eating fresh tropical Costa Rican fruits, having dance parties, and doing arts and crafts.
