Frequently Asked Questions

• Why San Pancho, Mexico?  What’s it like there?  

San Pancho is a small ( population < 5,000) town about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast of Mexico.  Officially named San Francisco, it’s affectionately nicknamed San Pancho and renowned for its beautiful beaches and nature, healthy outdoor lifestyle, delicious and diverse food, and sense of community.

• How do I get there?

Plan to fly into Puerto Vallarta airport (PVR), and provide us with your flight details.  Group ground transportation from the airport to and from the venue is included on the start and end day of the retreat.   

• Can I arrive early or stay longer?

Yes!  However, please be aware that January is high season, so planning well in advance is best to be able to secure additional accommodation of your choice.   If you would like to arrive early or stay longer at the hotel, let us know the dates ASAP and we can assist with extending your stay at a special retreat guest discount. 

• Can I bring a non-participating partner or friend?

Yes, they would be welcome (please indicate their non-yoga status on the registration form–there are places to add notes).   There is plenty for folks who don’t wish to take the yoga classes or growth workshops to do (or NOT do!  Extra downtime on the beach, anyone?).  Non-yoga guests are also welcome to book excursions and optional activities. 

• Can I bring a child?

Children over the age of 13 are OK–younger than that would need to be in the context of being looked after by a non-participating partner or guardian who is prepared to be 100% responsible for them.  Kindly reach out to check in if you’d like to bring a child under 13, thanks!

• What’s the retreat schedule?

There will be morning and evening yoga classes (of different types such as Hatha, Slow Flow, Restorative, Aqua Yoga, and Yin.  Beautiful locations (roof terrace, pool, beach) enhance the practice experience.  In general, we will have one optional “special activity” per day.  The intent is to have a rich experience in an unhurried atmosphere.

• What are the options for food?  Can special diets be accommodated?

A daily gourmet breakfast is included, and the restaurant “Mutua” serves lunch and dinner, too.  Special diets such as vegan and gluten-free can be accommodated.  In the town of San Pancho, there is so much tasty food and we’d love to take you to some of our favorite places, including tacos, juice and salad, fusion cuisine at some of the best restaurants in the region, and an amazing vegan ice-cream shop!

• Can you drink the water?

Generally in Mexico everyone (locals included) drinks purified water (provided at the hotel).  If in any doubt while eating out, ask for bottled water. 

• Do I need to speak Spanish?

While efforts to speak a few phrases in Spanish are appreciated, most providers of travel and hospitality services speak some English, and often are fluent.

• What travel insurance should I get? 

This is a very individual decision, since travelers have different characteristics (age, participation in high-risk sports, etc) and may be traveling to multiple destinations on the same trip, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.  That being said, here are some informational resources:  Trawick International  Nomadic Matt Travel Insurance Article  Seven Corners 

• What’s the cancellation policy?

More than 6 months before retreat start date = full refund (minus deposit). Between 6 months and 2 months = credit on a future trip or 50% refund (minus deposit)   If need to cancel within 60 days of retreat start date, no refund unless the spot can be filled by an alternate guest.

• What should I pack?  

Comfortable lightweight beach and yoga clothes, swimsuit, walking/hiking shoes, a daypack or beach bag, sunblock, bug spray, any personal medications/ vitamins, journal.  There are pharmacies on seemingly every street corner, so if you forget a basic item like a toothbrush, not to worry!.  In this small town, many smaller shops & restaurants are cash-only and some only take pesos.   There are  several options re: personal spending money–can arrange with your bank to order pesos ahead of time and bring with you, you can change money at the airport, or if you prefer not to carry cash, can use a debit card at the ATM’s in town. Feel free to ask your financial professional for further guidance.