Have you noticed our surf report and surf content on social media has a refreshing new spin? Well, that’s thanks to Chris Russell (33) the new guy contributing content to our media platforms and also our new guest services pro (AKA the new Parker).
Over a month ago, the countdown of a commitment made last year was over and Chris finally arrived to cover for what it was expected to be a busy season. But now, due to the Coronavirus madness, he has been stuck self-isolating at the studio of the same house he rented about 5 years ago through us, where he first came to Nicaragua and thought “this would be an amazing place to call home”.
Chris has been practicing his own forms of social distancing while surfing all day long, playing around with his camera or exploring the surrounds on his motorcycle. Here is what his has to say about his experience so far...
Tell us about yourself and your background.
I grew up in San Diego, mainly rode single fin longboards and more often could be found tending to my garden or camping out bouldering in Joshua tree, snowboarding, and regularly dancing the night away at one of many music festivals.
What got you interested in this job?
What interested me most about this position was the experience. I’ve always loved the ocean, traveling, and meeting new people. My dad used to take us to Mexico. We would stay in a hotel in the beach go surf and enjoy the culture that was just 30 minutes south of us. He passed away a few years ago but his passion and dream was instilled in me when I was just a kid and to have the opportunity to live and work here was a no brainer.
How does it make you feel that some people call you “the new Parker”? Those are literally biiig shoes to fill…
I remember Parker as he was the concierge when I came in 2015 and he was one cool cat, I refer to myself as the new Parker so I embrace the comparison.
What have you discovered exploring around and what are your favorite places or things to do?
Lots of people wearing masks and empty lineups. Now is a strange time around the world but my favorite place is in the water and favorite things are to surf and golf. Luckily we have both right here at SurfNSR so you don’t have to venture far to find my favorite places.
What is your message for guests that are looking forward to come down here? What can they expect from you?
Well, we really look forward welcoming guests again soon. And when they come, if they’ve never been here before get ready for world-class surf and an amazing community, a great adventure fueled by delicious food and exceptional people. If they need anything they can call on me and I will be the guy to put them where they need to be to do what they would like to do.