life by the lake
February 20 - February 27, 2025
March 4 - 11, 2025
View of the volcano from Casa Paloma
The 2025 Lake Atitlan Life by the Lake retreat — February 20 - February 27 or March 4 - 11 is held at Joyce’s retreat property, Casa Paloma. This seven-night trip to Guatemala--one night at a luxury boutique hotel in the lovely Spanish colonial city of Antigua, followed by six nights at Joyce’s home on the lake. Think of this as a time to explore a fascinating culture, relax in a hammock, get a massage or swim under a volcano, share great meals in a location of incomparable beauty, and every evening, or early morning, over coffee--engage in lively conversation (about writing, books, and more) with your hostess, Joyce.
This all-inclusive retreat won’t focus on writing memoir, instead we will explore the rich Mayan culture around the lake, with optional excursions to view birds, a sunset hike, a Mayan weaving collective, unique shopping and much more.
pricing
Private room (single) - $4495 - $5495
Private room (couple) - $6095 - $6995
Shared (double) room - $3995 - $4095
What’s included?
Three healthy and extraordinary meals a day prepared fresh and served by our private chef, Rosa Navichoc Chac - gluten/dairy free options are available
Healthy homemade snacks, coffee, tea, and filtered water are available to all guests throughout the duration of your stay
One private professional one-hour lakeside massage
Wi-Fi and airport transportation
One night stay in a lovely boutique hotel in Antigua and dinner
Daily sauna access
Swimming and water activities including paddle boards and kayaks
Daily morning group yoga class
optional activities
Cooking class with Chef Rosa
Sunrise hike
Shopping trip in San Marcos
Day trip to San Juan to visit a chocolate-making operation
Trip to Chichicastenango - the nature reserve in Panajachel, where you’re likely to encounter monkeys and other wildlife (also butterflies) as you walk on swinging bridges along gorgeous trails
Tour a local coffee roastery
Cacao ceremony
Traditional Mayan Shaman fire ceremony
Women’s weaving cooperative guided tour and shopping opportunity in Santiago
Waterfall hike
Cloud forest hike in search of the Quetzal
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Accomodations
Rooms are reserved on a first come, first served basis.
See here for more photos and descriptions of each room at Casa Paloma.
*Cancellation policy: Full refund (minus $500 admin fee) if cancellation is 10 weeks prior to retreat start date.