Nestled in the heart of Chapadmalal, Argentina, affectionately dubbed 'Chapa' by locals, lies AFT: a hostel that transcends the ordinary. It's not just a place to crash; it's a sanctuary where nature's rhythms, the thrill of surfing, and the camaraderie of kindred spirits converge. But let's rewind to the beginning: How did this haven of surf, sun, and soul come to fruition?

The person captured in the photo above is none other than Franco Rivas, known as 'Pepe' among locals. Hailing from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Pepe has been immersed in the surfing scene his entire life. He began his surfing journey in the crucible of traditional surf competitions, honing his skills and passion in the competitive arena. Today, he stands as a nationally recognized icon in the realm of free surf riding, a testament to his dedication and mastery of the waves.

From mastering the waves to crafting and shaping surfboards in his garage, and now, as one of the founders of AFT, Pepe has been instrumental in establishing Chapa as a surfing mecca in the region. His unwavering dedication and passion have been pivotal in elevating this quaint town into one of those rare, cherished spots among surfers worldwide.

It's been a few years since the beginning of AFT. Founded by Pepe, it was conceived from the outset as a haven for surfing enthusiasts, fostering a profound connection with nature and fellow surfers. And they've unquestionably succeeded. Today, countless visitors flock to AFT daily, whether to embark on their surfing journey, refine their skills, or simply seek a unique and enriching experience.

The daily efforts of this team all lead toward one common goal: to continue evolving into a gathering place that brings surfing, nature, and epic moments closer to those who seek them.

In a way, it's about offering everything the place and its people have to give, regardless of where you come from, how much you surf, or what boards you ride.

Among its main activities, AFT has a surf school for different levels, a restaurant and café with organic food grown by neighbors from the neighborhood, yoga classes and live shows. Their motto is 'we like things to really happen'.
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"We want to be the driving force behind a change in lifestyle through knowledge, learning, and action, stepping out of our comfort zone to live in harmony with nature."
‍Pepe said when we meet up last summer.

One of the things that make AFT special is that it's not just about one thing happening there, but several: surfing, people, yoga, photography, food, music, outdoor activities, gatherings and more.

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the waves with a golden hue, AFT Hostel is a sanctuary of chill vibes and good times in the wilds of Chapadmalal, Argentina. From its humble beginnings to now being a hotspot for surfers, nature buffs, and globe-trotters, AFT is all about bringing folks together.

Deep down in AFT's core is a love for the ocean and a vibe of living in sync with nature. At AFT, you can feel the buzz of adventure and friendship wherever you turn. Whether you're hitting the waves at sunrise, digging into some locally grown grub, or soaking up the local scene, every minute is a chance to find something new and connect with others on the same wavelength.
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