Frequently Asked Questions

 

Accommodations:

What type of accommodations are provided?

  • Single Occupancy (Double Bed)

  • Double Occupancy (Single Bed)

Can I request a specific roommate?

  • Absolutely! Please email chivonne@nurturinggrowthcoaching.com with your desired roommates first and last name. Once both participants have been approved and deposits have been received, we will ensure roommate pairing. 

Travel and Transportation:

What is the recommended airport for arrival?

  • Guatemala City Airport (GUA)

Is airport transfer included in the retreat package?

  • Transfer to and from the retreat location will be provided

Are there any group travel arrangements?

  • We will be taking a group outing midway through the week. Transportation will be provided

Itinerary and Activities:

Can you provide a detailed itinerary for the retreat?

  • The detailed itinerary can be found HERE

What activities are included in the package?

  • The detailed list of activities can be found HERE

Is there free time for personal exploration?

  • There will be free time to enjoy the retreat amenities such as the pool, kayaks and paddle boards. Additionally, massage services can be provided for a fee.

Food and Dietary Concerns:

Can the chef accommodate specific dietary preferences or restrictions?

  • Please email chivonne@nurturinggrowthcoaching.com should you have any specific requests. We will do our best to accommodate individual needs and preferences

Is the menu vegetarian/vegan-friendly?

  • Both vegan and vegetarian options will be available

How are meals organized during the retreat?

  • There will be three homemade meals per day (except on days when we will be dining off-site)

Payment and Refund Policies:

What is the payment schedule?

  • A $700 non-refundable deposit will be required at the time of retreat acceptance. A one-time payment, three or four month-payment plan options will be available

Is there a refund policy in case of cancellation?

  • If you cancel more than 60 days before the retreat start date, you may use any payment made as a credit towards another retreat within one calendar year.

  • All retreat payments become non-refundable and non-exchangeable less than 60 days before the retreat start date.

Are there any additional costs not covered in the package?

  • Optional day trips and massages

  • Any off site food or souvenirs 

  • Gratuity for retreat staff, drivers or guides

  • Accommodation booked before or after the retreat

Health and Safety:

Are there any health requirements or vaccinations needed for travel to Guatemala?

  • None

How far is the nearest medical facility?

Weather and Packing:

What is the weather like in Guatemala in May?

  • May is the beginning of the rainy season in Guatemala, with hot humid mornings and downpours in the afternoon, interspersed with occasional tropical storms

  • The temperature is also warm and pleasant, with highs of around 85-90°F in the Central Highlands

Are there specific items to pack for the retreat?

Clothing:

  • Lightweight, breathable tops and bottoms

  • Comfortable activewear for yoga and other physical activities

  • Swimsuit

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Hat and sunglasses

  • Comfortable walking shoes 

  • Sandals or flip-flops

  • Rain jacket or poncho (May is part of the rainy season)

Documents and Essentials:

  • Passport and a photocopy of important documents

  • Travel insurance information

  • Local currency and a credit/debit card

  • Emergency contact information

  • Any necessary travel visas

Toiletries and Personal Items:

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Prescription medications and a basic first aid kit

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Camera or smartphone

  • Portable charger/power bank

  • Adapters for electronic devices

  • Journal or notebook

  • Reading material or e-reader

  • Travel pillow and earplugs

Optional Items:

  • Light backpack for day trips

  • Travel-friendly snacks

Is there a dress code for any activities?

  • Dress comfortably. You may choose to wear something special for the final ceremony

Local Culture and Customs:

Are there any cultural sensitivities or customs to be aware of?

  • Respect for Mayan Heritage: Guatemala has a significant indigenous Mayan population, and their cultural heritage is highly respected. When visiting indigenous communities or historical sites, it's important to be respectful, ask for permission before taking photos, and engage with local customs in a considerate manner.

  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants, and around 10% is typical. Some places may include a service charge in the bill.

  • Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets, but it's important to do so respectfully. Understand that many vendors rely on their sales for their livelihood, so negotiate fairly.

  • Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in indigenous communities. Some may appreciate a small tip in return.

Are there recommended phrases in Spanish for basic communication?

Greetings:

  • Hello: Hola

  • Good morning: Buenos días

  • Good afternoon: Buenas tardes

  • Good evening/night: Buenas noches

Common Courtesies:

  • Please: Por favor

  • Thank you: Gracias

  • You're welcome: De nada

  • Excuse me: Perdón / Disculpe

Getting Around:

  • Where is...? - ¿Dónde está...?

  • How much is this? - ¿Cuánto cuesta esto?

  • I need a taxi - Necesito un taxi

  • Where is the bathroom? - ¿Dónde está el baño?

Food and Dining:

  • I would like... - Me gustaría...

  • The check, please - La cuenta, por favor

  • Delicious - Delicioso

  • Can I have the menu? - ¿Puedo ver el menú?

Numbers:

  • 1: Uno

  • 2: Dos

  • 3: Tres

  • 10: Diez

  • 100: Cien

Emergency Phrases:

  • Help! - ¡Ayuda!

  • I need a doctor - Necesito un médico

  • Where is the nearest hospital? - ¿Dónde está el hospital más cercano?

Basic Conversation:

  • What is your name? - ¿Cuál es tu nombre?

  • My name is... - Mi nombre es...

  • How are you? - ¿Cómo estás?

  • I don't understand - No entiendo

Shopping:

  • How much does this cost? - ¿Cuánto cuesta esto?

  • Can I pay with a credit card? - ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito?

  • I'll take it - Me lo llevo

Payment Methods:

What payment methods are accepted for the retreat?

  • Payments can be made through Square and all major payment types are accepted

Can I pay in installments?

  • One, three or four-month payment installments will be accepted

Is there an option for a group discount?

  • No

Preparation and Recommendations:

Should participants bring any specific items or equipment?

  • Beyond the recommended packing list, nothing specific is required

What advice do you have for maximizing the retreat experience?

  • Be curious, flexible and open-minded. Come with an open-heart and be ready to embrace new experiences, people and cultures. Chivonne and Candice are experienced retreat facilitators and will do everything in their power to make this an incredible experience for you. Be mindful that itinerary details may shift and decisions will be made to support the group. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at chivonne@nurturinggrowthcoaching.com

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