If you know a surfer – or you are a surfer – you’ll know it’s not just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. A lifestyle that leads you to lots of great adventures, because some of the best surf is in far-flung destinations like Portugal, South Africa, France and Costa Rica! Travelling with a surfer has its pros and cons though. While the pros outweigh the cons (we think!), how many of these surf travel pointers can you relate to?
The pros…
-
You’ll always be at the beach
The beach is the best! Having a legitimate reason to just always be there while you’re on holidays is amazing. Between the swimming, sunbathing and sandcastle building, every day will be pure bliss. Of course, you can also take this time to encourage your surfing partner to teach you to surf!
-
It’s relaxing
The ocean is very calming. The sounds of the waves and the opportunity to sit in silence and watch the surfers catch waves is a chance for max relaxation, which is one of the main things we want from a trip right?! A couple hours of meditating the complex manoeuvres of surfers and watching the sun rise and set in a foreign destination may just be the key to transformation.
-
You’ll meet really cool people
Surfers love a chat. This is a fact. By being part of the surfing scene (albeit temporarily) you’ll meet some locals who can give you great recommendations on things to do, see, eat and you know… more surfing spots!
Image source:Vladimir Kudinov
The cons…
-
Early starts
Surf conditions vary all over the world, but generally the best time is early in the morning. If your travel style is late nights and later sleep-ins, you may find yourself riding solo because your surfing friend is down by the water. The flip side of course is that you might also be accompanying them on the crack-of-dawn adventures. BYO blanket to nap on the beach!
-
The sunburn is real
Sun safety is everything guys, but even the best of us catch a few too many rays by accident. Chilling on a beach and watching someone surf is fun until you’re dehydrated, hot and redder than a lobster. Not many surf beaches offer shady shelters either, so make sure to cover up, keep re-applying that ocean-friendly sun cream and head out of the sun during the hours around midday.
-
Carrying all the gear
The fun starts before you even leave home! Getting a six-foot surfboard and bag to the airport is a struggle in your native language, but try explaining that to a taxi driver in Greek. You’ll also have to pay extra for baggage, struggle with connecting flights and find restaurants and cafes that are okay with you and your friend bringing a board in for a meal. Unless you have beachfront accommodation or are hiring a board (a big no no for pro surfers), be prepared for your travel buddy to work those muscles and for you to help.
Image source:Noah Surf House
