At Ocotea Boutique Hotel, we believe that what makes our hotel exceptional isn’t just the stunning views, the luxurious accommodations, or the extraordinary experiences we offer—it's the people who bring it all to life. The staff here are not just collaborators; they’re the heart and soul of our guest experience.
Each team member shares a common purpose: to create an environment where hospitality is more than just a service; it’s a deeply personal and rewarding experience. This shared goal of continuous learning, passion, and connection sets us apart. Let’s take a closer look at the some of the dedicated individuals who make it all happen.
Roxana – The Art of Connection
In her role on the food & beverage team, Roxana is often our guests' first point of contact, and she has an innate gift for making people feel at home. But Roxana is much more than a server, her role is one of constant change, never staying in one place for too long and always on her feet, ensuring that every guest’s experience is tailored to their needs.
"My job is exciting because no two days are the same," she shares. "I’m responsible for coordinating a broad range of things, from excursions to making sure every little detail is taken care of for our guests."
Roxana thrives in this environment because she’s driven by a “growth mindset,” constantly looking for new ways to elevate the guest experience.
"It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I’ve made a difference in someone’s day, whether it's by recommending a hidden gem in Monteverde or helping them explore new ways to engage with the local culture."
This desire to evolve is central to her approach. She doesn’t simply manage logistics; she creates opportunities for guests to connect with Monteverde on a deeper level. But what truly sets Roxana apart is her belief in the power of relationships.
"I help the guests book tours and excursions, and each guest is different. Whether they’re young or older, with varying interests, it’s always about finding something that will speak to them," she explains. Her ability to connect with each guest, regardless of their background, is a hallmark of her approach.
In fact, Roxanna believes that the dynamic at Ocotea Boutique Hotel is what makes it unique. "The team here is essentially one big family. When you’re part of a team that cares so much about each other, it naturally extends to the guests. They feel it, and that makes their stay even more special," she says.
Mauricio – The Alchemist of Atmosphere
Mauricio, our drinks specialist, is much more than a bartender. He’s an expert in crafting experiences. His knowledge of wines, cocktails, and the local flavors of Monteverde is vast, but what truly sets him apart is his ability to listen and respond to each guest’s unique needs.
"The most important service I provide is creating a moment for the guest," Mauricio says. "It’s not just about the drink itself; it’s about creating an experience that enhances the atmosphere and connects with what the guest needs at that moment."
Mauricio sees his job as an opportunity to make meaningful connections.
"Whether it’s a cocktail, a glass of wine, or even just a morning coffee, I love being able to add to the experience and share something new with someone."
His passion for learning is evident in the way he constantly strives to expand his knowledge, particularly about wines and cocktails.
"I’m always trying to learn more about the wines we offer and perfect my cocktail-making skills to provide something unique for our guests."
What Mauricio finds most rewarding is the ability to surprise even the most seasoned travelers.
"It’s especially gratifying when I can offer something that surprises someone who’s traveled the world. If a guest has had drinks all over the world, I want to show them something they haven’t had before. It’s about creating that wow factor," he says.
He’s also attuned to the changing seasons and how the weather influences guests' preferences.
"On a cooler day, people want something more robust, and on a hotter day, a lighter, fruitier drink. It’s all about making the perfect recommendation for the moment."
For Mauricio, his role is about more than mixing drinks.
"It’s not an obligation; it’s a passion. If you ask, I’ll have a chance to make a recommendation and create something beautiful for you," he says. Whether it’s a drink that matches the food or enhances the ambiance, Mauricio is always looking for ways to elevate the experience.
Chef Dennis – Passion on Every Plate
At Nectandra, the Ocotea Boutique Hotel’s restaurant, Chef Dennis brings his passion for fresh, local ingredients to every dish. Costa Rica’s rich natural bounty provides an abundance of flavors, and Chef Dennis embraces the challenge of delivering innovative dishes that highlight the best of the region.
"It’s a great advantage to be surrounded by nature and fresh, local products," he explains. "It would be a disservice not to showcase what the earth is sharing with us."
Chef Dennis’ culinary philosophy blends tradition with creativity. He’s deeply committed to maintaining the integrity of Costa Rican flavors while introducing new twists.
"When I create a new dish, I always start with the ingredients," he says. "It’s about understanding the flavors and applying creativity without losing the essence of what makes Costa Rican food special." Whether it's adjusting a menu item to accommodate dietary needs or incorporating seasonal ingredients, Chef Dennis is constantly looking for ways to innovate while respecting tradition.
His role as a leader in the kitchen is just as important as his culinary expertise.
"I’m always teaching my team, guiding them to not just cook, but to think about food and the people we serve," he shares. Chef Dennis places a strong emphasis on mentorship, encouraging his staff to maintain a growth mindset, much like he does.
"Being a chef requires constant learning. I’m always a student of my craft, and I instill that in my team. Whether they’re younger or older, it’s about embracing every opportunity to learn and improve," he says.
Quality and consistency are at the core of Chef Dennis’ approach.
"In this industry, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, but if you love what you’re doing, it’s all worth it," he shares.
Every dish that leaves his kitchen reflects his dedication to both the art and the science of cooking.
A Shared Purpose: Learning, Growing, and Connecting
At the Ocotea Boutique Hotel, we believe in the power of personal growth, both for our staff and for our guests. It’s a place where learning is encouraged, and everyone—whether they’re serving a drink, arranging an excursion, or preparing a meal—is constantly improving. But it’s more than just technical skill; it’s about sharing a passion for the work and a commitment to making every moment special for our guests.
Each of these incredible team members—Roxana, Mauricio, and Chef Dennis—shares a deep sense of purpose. They don’t just come to work to do their job; they come to enrich the experience of everyone they encounter. This culture of care, learning, and growth is what truly sets Ocotea Boutique Hotel apart. It’s a place where people don’t just stay; they feel at home, and they’re welcomed into a team that cares deeply about their experience.
And none of this would be possible without the atmosphere of community and family that is at the very heart of the Ocotea Boutique Hotel, and which has been carefully curated and fostered by the owners, Karen Fallas and her daughter Valeria. This atmosphere is tangible from the moment you arrive as strangers to the moment you check out as friends.
Come and discover the difference family makes.
