FAQS  
Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport?

Yes, you need a valid, current passport to travel into Mexico. If you already have a passport, make sure you check the expiration date.

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What airport do I fly into?

The airport that you will fly into is Puerto Vallarta (PVR).

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Where do I go from the airport?

From the airport we will take a taxi to Los Muertos Pier. There are several taxi services readily available outside of the airport. Your host will give you information about which services are available. The fare is about $25 USD. Something to note, is that you will need to pay the fare upfront or when leaving the airport vicinity. This is normal and a toll that the taxi services have to pay.

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Where do we go from Los Muertos Pier?

Your driver will drop you off on the corner of Olas Altas and Francisca Rodiguez--near the pier, where we will meet as a group. You will walk down the boardwalk toward the ocean and on the right hand side of the pier (as you are looking out toward the pier) there is a restaurant called Cuates y Cuetes--this is where we will meet as a group and wait for the 5pm water taxi ride to Yelapa. It is a cute little Mexican restaurant on the beach where you can get refreshments and light bites before heading over if we have time. *This cost is not included in the retreat. We will take the 5pm water taxi to Yelapa. It is of utmost importance to be punctual. It is a 45 minute boat ride, depending on the water conditions. You may want a light jacket for the ride. The boat will drop us off at Playa Isabel (right in front of Casa Isabel). We will be dismounting from the boat right onto the beach, which is quite fun and typically a great time! People with limited mobility will be dropped off at the town pier and accompanied to Casa Isabel.

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I'm not a fan of traveling alone, can you hook me up with a buddy?

Yes! We understand that traveling can be intimidating, especially when it's to another country. It's our aim to make your journey as enjoyable and carefree as possible. It is likely that many group members will be arriving at the airport around the same time. For this reason, we start a group chat a few weeks prior to our departure so that participants can not only get to know one another and have a space to share questions, but to also give people the opportunity to make taxi and shuttle arrangements together from the airport to Los Muertos Pier. It is very likely that you will be able to buddy-up with one or more persons from the group at the airport. We (your hosts) will also be helping to facilitate this as well.    

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Around what time should my flight land in Puerto Vallarta?

Make sure that your flight lands in Puerto Vallarta before 3pm so that you have enough time to get through Customs and over to Los Muertos pier by 5:00pm to meet up with the rest of the group where we will take a water taxi over to Yelapa.

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LODGING, YELAPA, DAY-TO-DAY, & CASH

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Where will I be staying while in Yelapa?

The retreat will be held at Casa Isabel, a lovely sustainable living villa – close to the ocean and surrounded by nature. Each casita (“little house”) is unique and pricing is dependent upon occupancy. To view their website click HERE

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What will a “typical” day look like?

A typical day will include a movement and/or meditation practice in the morning, followed by breakfast and then an excursion, group activity, or workshop. Given the day’s activity, there may also be another opportunity to practice yoga or meditation before or after dinner. All activities are optional and guests should feel free to use this as a time to honor what feels best for them to engage in.

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Can you tell me more about Yelapa, and why it’s so magical?

Yes! We encourage you to read this stunning article:

Yelapa: La Madre Selva (The Mother Jungle) – by HARRIS NEWMAN

It talks about the magic of Yelapa and how it is an "energy vortex" similar to those associated with Sedona and Stonehenge. It is said that "the scariest thing you will find in Yelapa is yourself." It the perfect place for deep listening, prayer, and manifestation.  

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I have limited mobility. Is this retreat for me?

It’s important to keep in mind that Yelapa is nestled at the foot of a mountain next to the ocean and has no paved roads. Because of this, getting around in Yelapa means walking on charming cobble-stone streets and steep walkways. It's important to wear proper attire and footing to help you navigate the terrain. In addition, Casa Isabel is located on a mountain and has several stairs to reach the casitas and central living area. If you have trouble walking or with uneven terrain this retreat will be more challenging for you and some of the excursions may not be as readily accessible. With this said, you are not obligated to participate in anything you do not want to and simply relaxing in the beauty of Casa Isabel and its surroundings is enough to make this a most amazing experience that is truly worth it.

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What is the weather like November-April?

The weather during this time of year is the most desirable in Yelapa. Expect cooler nights with warm and sunny days. The average temperature range is a low of 65° and a high of 82°.

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What kinds of clothing should I pack?

Bring clothes conducive for warmer weather and slightly cooler nights. In addition, consider attire for activities such as yoga, hiking, and swimming. A good pair of walking sandals are highly recommended.

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What type of luggage should I bring?

Traveling lighter will definitely make your life easier. We suggest a hiking backpack or small carry-on roller bag. 

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Can I drink the water in Yelapa?

There is plenty of safe drinking water in Yelapa. Although the tap water  may not be for drinking, Casa Isabel has an filtration system and each casita will have its own garaphon. There are many options to purchase bottled water from the stores as well.

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What kind of wildlife is in Yelapa?

Yelapa is located on the southern coast of Mexico and is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. One of the most notable animals found in the area is the humpback whale, which can be spotted off the coast during the winter months. The surrounding jungle is home to numerous bird species, including parrots, pelicans, frigates, toucans, and hummingbirds. Other animals found in the area include iguanas, turtles, and scorpions. The beaches and waters around Yelapa are also home to a diverse range of fish, crustaceans, and other marine life.

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Tell me more about scorpions...

Scorpions are fascinating arachnids found in many parts of the world, known for their distinctive appearance and predatory habits. They typically have eight legs and a pair of pincers, with a long, segmented tail that ends in a venomous stinger. Despite their intimidating appearance are actually beneficial to the environment, as they prey on insects and other small creatures. In fact, scorpions have been around for millions of years and have adapted to a wide range of habitats, from deserts to forests. While it's important to be cautious around scorpions, they are generally not something to be feared. Yelapa does have scorpions that are venomous so it is important to keep your suitcases closed and to be mindful where you are walking. Like many animals, they only attack when they are defending themselves so if you are not bothering them, they will most likely not be bothering you.

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Money:

The currency in Yelapa is the Mexican Peso. There are no ATMs in Yelapa so will want to either order pesos before you leave the US or purchase them in Puerto Vallarta from a bank or ATM. Many US banks offer currency exchange. We will not have a lot of time in PV before heading to Yelapa (unless you are coming early) so the best and most economical thing to do is to get your pesos ahead of time or at the airport.

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How much money should I bring?

The feedback from past retreats has been to bring about $100 USD/day. This will allow for snacks, lunches, souvenirs, special drinks, and other items that tickle your fancy.

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Are credit cards accepted in most places?

Few places in Yelapa accept credit cards. And the fees are large. The most preferred and accepted form of payment is cash.

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Tipping etiquette:

In Mexico, tipping is very much appreciated and sometimes very much expected. As a general rule/guideline it is customary to tip someone that is providing you a service or helping you with something that you would otherwise have to do yourself and that makes your load a little lighter. For example if someone helps you transport your luggage, it is expected that you offer a $2-$5 tip (50-100 pesos).

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What is the cancellation policy?

Deposits are nonrefundable. Further, should the participant's cancellation occur within 30 days of the event for any reason, all fees are forfeited. Should participant cancellation occur within 60 days of the event for whatever reason, only 50% of the total fee is refundable, less the deposit. Should the event be canceled, all fees will be refunded back to participant.

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