International Lifestyle Magazine Issue 50 | Page 27
Their own adventure began just over 7 years ago when they decided to downsize, sell everything and head out on an adventure. Their journey began in Vietnam where they lived for two years while traveling Asia extensively, and whilst they loved it there, something was missing, so they headed back to the Americas in search of a more congruent lifestyle. When they arrived in the San Juan del Sur area of Nicaragua, they knew this was the place. Hats were hung. Boots were stood by the door. This was to be home. They arrived in Nicaragua with no preconceived ideas of what would unfold before them, or where this journey would take them but they just instinctively knew that this was the place. And just like many great businesses, rather than force a concept they just allowed their passion to drive the decisions about what they would do for a living. Jamie’s love of horses and nature combined with Blue’s love of tourism and photography naturally fused to create the success of the business and provide the dream job for each of them. What started out as just two horses for Jamie and Blue to explore the area, they bought two more to invite friends to join them on the trail. And then friends of friends wanted to participate too and so it goes, and now, people travel from all over to share the Rancho Chilamate experience. Who travels with jeans, hats and cowboy boots? Well you don’t have to. Guests are encouraged to ‘Cowboy Up’ from a large collection of hats, boots and bandanas because clearly when you look the part, you act the part and Blue’s photos show it all.
Not only does their business support their life in Nicaragua, it also supports the local community that they ride through, providing both medical and educational services. From the incredible reviews on line I cannot imagine a better way to get up close and personal with Nicaragua than on the back of a horse riding through the local community, through gorgeous farmland, under the jungle canopy harboring countless howler monkeys and out onto a secluded beach where, if your feel courageous - you are encouraged to canter. For many, their dream job provides ‘dream come true moments’ as well. All the while Jamie and Blue’s info packed tour offers up insider information as an expat living in a rural town in a developing country. It’s truly a dream life for many. The gracious Spanish-style hacienda they built is 100% solar powered and a drilled well provides plenty of water. The incredible weather year round offers ideal growing conditions for vegetables and trees planted during construction of the ranch are about to bear fruit. There are of course many other activities you can enjoy in Nicaragua and Rancho Chilamate has a wonderful link worth checking out http://ranchochilamate.com/ things-to-do-in-san-juan-del-sur/ Rumor has it that Rancho Chilamate might add rooms to rent in addition to the exceptional ride for hire. Find out about booking at Rancho Chilamate and who knows, their adventurous spirit and boundless enthusiasm might rub off and you could find yourself on a new journey to create your own dream job… dream life!
http://ranchochilamate.com
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