The Vamonos Experience Retreat 2026 – Your Questions…Answered

At some point, everyone comes to a fork in the road. If you keep doing what you’ve always done, you’ll probably continue to have the same level of success that you have today. And maybe that’s fine. BUT…if you are asking yourself “What’s next?” or “Am I really supposed to be doing this?”, we can help.

The Vamonos Experience has been crafted to create your personal transformation journey. Over the course of seven days, you will slow down, reconnect with yourself, understand and overcome self-limiting behaviors, reflect on what is important to you, and create a vision for your next chapter. We will balance introspection and reflection with personal challenges so that you can unlock your full potential.

Transformation takes time and intention. We’ve designed this retreat to give you the space, support, and rhythm needed for meaningful and lasting change. 

A full week allows you to pause, reconnect with yourself, and see your life—and your leadership—with fresh eyes. This isn’t a quick fix or a weekend escape. It’s a guided experience with time built in for reflection, insight, challenge, and growth.

We begin on a Saturday, giving you space to close out your week and arrive with a clear head. We end on Friday, so you return home with time to reflect, rest, and reintegrate—first with yourself, then with your family and community, and finally with your work.

Throughout the week, we guide you through experiences that gently stretch your comfort zone while providing a sense of safety and grounding. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains, sharing your story, or trying something entirely new, every moment is designed to help you grow at your own pace.

And the journey doesn’t stop when you leave Oaxaca. We continue to support your transformation through a virtual group session two weeks after the retreat, and you’ll also receive three hours of 1:1 coaching to help you integrate what you’ve learned into your everyday life.

This isn’t just a retreat. It’s a catalyst for real change, and that deserves the time it takes to take root.

An “adult gap year in a week” is our way of describing the unique power of stepping away from your daily life to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a focused, intentional way.

Perhaps you’ve heard of a “Gap Year” and think it’s just for kids. Or maybe you’ve dreamed of taking time off to travel, rediscover your purpose, or figure out what’s next—but a full year isn’t always realistic. We’ve distilled the essence of that experience into one transformative week. This retreat creates the time and space you often can’t find in day-to-day life. Without the constant distractions of work, family obligations, and to-do lists, you’re free to focus entirely on you—your values, your voice, your vision for what’s next.

In just one week of immersive, guided experiences, you can accomplish what might take six months or more in traditional coaching—not because the time is longer, but because it’s uninterrupted, intentional, and shared with others who are equally committed to growth.

You’ll be supported through powerful coaching, enriching cultural experiences, honest conversations, and purposeful reflection—all of which help you get unstuck, reimagine your future, and begin living and leading with more clarity and confidence.

This is your chance to take the break you didn’t know you needed—and come back to your life more aligned, energized, and ready for what’s next.

Our goal is to help you feel supported and open to new possibilities during your stay. We’ll take good care of you so that you can take good care of yourself. Tuition includes: Upscale room accommodation, three meals per day, over 25 hours of group coaching and five individual 60-minute coaching sessions, an intentionally designed curriculum and 75-page workbook, excursions and activities (including Oaxaca Market Tour, Hierve el Agua hiking tour, mezcal tasting, cacao ceremony, weaving demonstration), transportation within Oaxaca, yoga and meditation, and a few celebratory dinners.

While the Vamonos Experience is all-inclusive, there are a few items that are not included in your tuition. These include:

• Airfare and transportation to and from Oaxaca
• Trip insurance
• Shopping and souvenirs that you may wish to purchase
• Gratuities for exceptional service, above and beyond what Vamonos provides
• Accommodations before and after the retreat
• Food and beverages outside of what is provided

We value personal growth and always strive to bring you the maximum value possible. We appreciate your investment in this experience. If this retreat feels right for you, but financial considerations are holding you back, please be in touch with Suzanne (suzanne@vamonoscoaching.com) to discuss financial aid and payment options.

Yes! After your initial deposit of $1000 is made to secure your spot, we offer monthly installment payments. Payment in full is due on January 31, 2026.

Cancellations must be made in writing via email and are effective once received. The refund schedule is as follows:

• Through September 15, 2025: Fully refundable
• September 16 – November 15, 2025: 50% refundable
• After November 15, 2025: Non-refundable

Changes to your reservation may incur a $150 amendment fee, plus any additional costs. Because the Vamonos Experience is largely non-refundable, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.

Yes! Many companies will cover a portion of your retreat tuition. We are happy to provide supporting documentation about your learning objectives and the professional benefits you will receive from the retreat.

While the Vamonos Experience is an all-inclusive experience, there are times when you may want to purchase items from vendors or express your generosity during your travels. Many local vendors accept credit cards; however, it is always advisable to have a few Pesos on hand. The best way to obtain Pesos is via the ATM machines at the Oaxaca Airport.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unexpected situations. It can help cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, delays, or other unforeseen interruptions. A couple of reputable providers to consider are Wanderwell and Activity Insurance, offering policies tailored for retreats and outdoor adventure travel. Please review coverage options that best fit your needs.

We have carefully designed your days to facilitate the best possible experience for you and to promote your growth. Here is what a typical day will look like. Please note that this itinerary may vary depending on the day’s activities and the needs of the group.

The typical daily flow:

• Breakfast 6:30 am – 8:30 am
• Mindfulness / Yoga / Morning Movement 7:30 am – 8:00 am
• Workshop Sessions 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
• Lunch and Break 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
• Workshop Sessions 2:00 pm – 5:30 pm
• Dinner 7:00 / 7:30 pm

We stay in three thoughtfully selected locations during the retreat. Our first night is at Hotel Victoria in Oaxaca City, followed by four nights at Casa Lyobaa, a boutique, family-owned hotel in the town of Mitla. For our final night, we return to Oaxaca City and stay at NaNa Vida or a comparable property.

Each space is comfortable, welcoming, and rich in local charm, offering room to rest, reflect, and recharge.

For the first and last nights of the retreat—when we stay in Oaxaca City—private rooms are available upon request for an additional fee. If having your own space those nights is essential to you, we’re happy to accommodate that whenever possible.

During our stay at Casa Lyobaa, all guests will share a room with one other participant. Each beautifully appointed room includes two queen beds and a private bathroom to ensure comfort and personal space.

We understand that the idea of sharing a room can feel like a stretch, especially if you’re used to having your own space. However, past guests—including those who were initially hesitant—have often shared that rooming with a fellow retreat participant became one of the most meaningful parts of their journey. These shared moments can lead to deep connection, unexpected laughter, and supportive companionship.

That said, Casa Lyobaa is designed with both connection and solitude in mind, offering plenty of private and outdoor areas where you can unwind, reflect, and recharge on your own. Part of this retreat is about gently stepping outside your comfort zone—and many of our guests find that this is where the transformation begins.

For all retreats, we ask that you land by 1:00 pm on the start date of your retreat and plan to depart anytime on the last day.

• Arrival Day: Our welcome reception starts at 3:30 pm, so arriving by 1 pm will give us enough time to pick you up at the airport, bring you to your hotel, and get you settled in before we begin.
• Departure Day:  There is no scheduled programming on our final day together, so you can arrange to depart Oaxaca at whatever time works best for you. Breakfast will be offered, and the official checkout time for your room is 11 am. Transportation from Oaxaca Centro to the airport will be provided to accommodate your departure flight.

Unfortunately, if you cannot arrive for the start of the retreat, 3:30 pm on Saturday, February 28, 2026, we will not be able to honor your reservation. Please note that if you encounter travel delays, we will ensure that you receive transportation to the retreat location upon your arrival in Oaxaca.

OAX – Oaxaca International Airport

We will obtain your travel information from you prior to the retreat. Our team will arrange for private transportation from OAX to our first night accommodations. We will coordinate with you during your travels using a WhatsApp group chat.

Absolutely! If you would like to extend your trip to Oaxaca, either before or after the retreat, we can help you secure hotel accommodations. You will be responsible for the cost of extra night accommodations.

The weather in Oaxaca in late February / early March is almost perfect. The daily highs range between 77 and 85 F, rarely exceeding 90 F. The daily lows range from 50 to 55 F. The afternoons can get windy, so layers are recommended.

Oaxaca’s dry season lasts from October through April. The climate is arid, with low humidity. It would be rare to see rain while we are there. Please note that water is a prized commodity in Oaxaca, and conservation is critical.

• Curiosity and an open mind
• Casual, comfortable clothing—shorts, dresses, exercise wear that is suitable for yoga, relaxing, exploring, and hiking
• Layers for temperature swings from day to night
• Shoes: sturdy walking shoes for Centro; hiking boots, or shoes with good tread for our hikes; water shoes for waterfall exploration; flip-flops or sandals for poolside
• Sunscreen—it can be expensive
• Swimsuit
• Hat & sunglasses
• Water bottle/hydration bladder for hiking
• Backpack/daypack for hiking
• RX prescriptions and medication for your entire stay
• Passport, which is valid for six months after the last day of your trip retreat
• Power adapters for travelers from Europe (U.S. Canada, and Mexico use the same outlets)

Yes. All guests arriving in Mexico will need a valid passport. Please note that Mexico requires that your passport be valid for at least six months from your return date (i.e., 9/07/2026, if returning on 3/06/2026).

U.S. citizens can learn more about arrival requirements here.

The travel rules are evolving as Mexico becomes more sophisticated and computerized, and we are seeing changing requirements at the airport. Please be prepared to go with the flow. We will provide you with the most up-to-date information available prior to your departure, including electronic registration requirements and the location of your stay. Please be prepared to go with the flow and trust that you will be told what you need to do when you arrive.

Before the retreat, you will be asked to provide your flight information to the Vamonos team. We will arrange transportation from the airport to our hotel. If you are arriving on the same flight as other guests, you will share transportation. We will provide you with details about your transportation via a WhatsApp group chat before landing in Oaxaca. We will monitor your flight arrival times and, if needed, make changes to your transportation so that it meets you when your flight arrives.

Oaxaca is filled with amazing natural beauty and wonders. Hierve el Agua and Las Salinas are among the best. We will start our day early to beat the crowds at Hierve el Agua and the mineral pools. We will take a short walk from the parking area to the pools, where we will have time to bask in the view and swim. From there, we will have a local breakfast before beginning our hike.

The hike from Hierve el Agua to Las Salinas is approximately 7 km or 4.3 miles. Most of the hike is downhill, but the terrain is rocky, so hiking shoes, or shoes with good grip, are a MUST. Additionally, the weather can be hot, so you must carry water. We REQUIRE that all guests carry at least 1.5 liters of water and wear a hat. Here are a few important considerations about the hike:

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
• Total ascent: 174 m
• Total descent: 287M

Outdoor activities involve many risks, and you might encounter dangerous situations during these experiences. It is your responsibility to ensure you can participate safely given your abilities and the conditions (such as location, terrain, and weather). We will provide certain safety equipment, but it is your responsibility not to expose yourself to unnecessary dangers and listen attentively to our guide’s directions. If you elect not to participate in the hike, travel arrangements between sights will be provided.

Oaxaca is one of the most interesting and beautiful locations in Mexico. It was recently named the #1 Travel Destination in the World by Travel + Leisure Magazine. Although Oaxaca de Juárez is almost a mile above sea level, it sits in a valley surrounded by mountains. Oaxaca is home to 16 ethnic groups, resulting in rich cultural traditions. Oaxaca shines through in its friendly people, spirited festivals, ancient architectural sites, colonial architecture, delicious cuisine, and amazing artisans. As we travel through Oaxaca, you will have the opportunity to experience its magic.

Yes, Oaxaca is generally considered a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. Like any travel experience, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and exercise basic precautions.

According to the U.S. Department of State, Oaxaca State is currently listed at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution—the same level as cities like Paris and London. This designation reflects a general advisory to be mindful of your environment, especially in unfamiliar areas, but does not indicate a high level of danger.

We have carefully designed the retreat to ensure your comfort and safety. Our accommodations, transportation, and excursions are coordinated with trusted local partners who are deeply familiar with the area. You’ll be in a small, guided group throughout the retreat, and we’ll share tips and best practices for exploring Oaxaca confidently and respectfully.

Many of our past participants have shared how safe and embraced they felt in Oaxaca—and we’re confident you’ll experience the same.

We recommend that you do not drink tap water in Oaxaca. While locals are accustomed to it, travelers may not be—and drinking it can sometimes lead to an upset stomach.

During the retreat, we provide plenty of safe, filtered and bottled drinking water at the accommodations and throughout our activities. We also recommend using filtered water when brushing your teeth, which we’ll have readily available for you.

On another note about water, like the rest of Mexico, Oaxaca is experiencing a significant drought. We ask that our guests help us conserve water by taking expedited showers and managing their personal water consumption. We also request that our guests bring reusable water bottles so that we can minimize our use of plastic.

Please check with your phone provider to determine your Mexico plan.

Please download WhatsApp before you arrive. It’s free and a very effective and widely used messaging and VOIP calling option. The Vamonos team will use WhatsApp to communicate with you throughout the retreat.

Yes, you will have access to the internet during the retreat. Our retreat accommodations, including Casa Lyobaa, are equipped with reliable Wi-Fi that you can use during your stay.

That said, part of the magic of this retreat comes from stepping away from daily distractions and fully immersing yourself in the experience. We kindly ask that you limit device use during group activities and coaching sessions and keep phones tucked away so we can all be fully present, for ourselves and each other.

When we venture out into the city or explore the surrounding mountains, connectivity may be limited or unavailable, offering a natural invitation to unplug and be in the moment. Many past participants have found that this intentional break from constant connection led to deeper insights, greater calm, and more meaningful connections.

You’ll be joined by a group of successful, senior, and emerging female leaders—all ready for change. Some are feeling stuck or burnt out, others are navigating a transition, and many are simply craving space to reconnect with themselves.

What they all share is a curious heart, a willingness to grow, and a commitment to doing the work that leads to meaningful transformation.

We purposely keep our retreats small, limiting our group to 8 women. The smaller size creates an intimate environment to promote connection, while at the same time offering diverse backgrounds and perspectives to challenge your thinking and facilitate your growth.

The Vamonos Experience blends personalized 1:1 coaching with powerful group work. You’ll receive a total of five individual coaching sessions: two sessions before the retreat to set your intentions, and three sessions after to help you integrate what you’ve learned.

During the week, we’ll engage in over 25 hours of group coaching, plus plenty of informal time to connect 1:1 with Suzanne and Kimberly throughout the experience.

The retreat has no religious or spiritual affiliation, but we do offer breath work, meditation, and yoga to support reflection and grounding. We welcome participants of all religious and spiritual persuasions. During the retreat, you’ll experience cultural rituals, including a cacao ceremony with sound bath and a traditional Zapotec temezcal—all optional and offered with respect and intention.

You’re invited to participate fully, but never forced. If something doesn’t feel right or you need space, you’re welcome to step back and honor your needs. That said, we believe growth often lies just beyond your comfort zone—so if you’re feeling hesitant, it might be the exact place your breakthrough begins.

All meals are locally sourced and prepared with fresh, traditional ingredients. A local chef will cook for us during the retreat, and we’ll enjoy two celebratory dinners at top restaurants in Oaxaca City. You’ll also experience a home-cooked traditional meal with a local family—one of the most memorable parts of the week.

We’re happy to accommodate dietary restrictions—just let us know your needs in advance.

There’s rarely a “perfect time” to step away—but if you’re craving something different (even if you don’t know exactly what), that’s your signal. This retreat is for women who are ready to press pause, reflect deeply, and begin creating a future they’re excited about. If it’s calling to you, trust that nudge—you deserve this investment in yourself.