Know Before You Go

Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Retreat Host Mickey

1. What Airport Do We Fly Into?

When making the trip to Sayulita you fly into Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR). It is about 2.5 hours from LAX to PVR. 

2. How Do We Get From Airport To Sayulita?

Round trip transfers from the airport are included with the cost of the retreat (some exclusions apply). We'll coordinate air schedules and work to get everyone in Mexico around the same time. We will hire private shuttles to take us from PVR to Sayulita. The trip is about 1 hour 15 minute ride on excellent roads and we will be in Sayulita before you know it. For people arriving early or late that need special arrangements, the cost of transportation may be your responsibility. We will work with you and the other retreat guests to ensure a smooth transfer from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita.

3. Do I Need A Negative COVID Test To Get Into Mexico?

Currently it is not required to get a negative COVID test to enter into Mexico. However, we do strongly encourage all retreat guests to get a test prior to travel. It is an extra step but will give you peace of mind, especially when it comes to requirements for entering the United States. 

4. Do I need A Negative COVID Test To Get Back Into US?

Yes, it is current policy that all travelers entering back into the United States have a negative COVID test within 3 days of their flight into the US. This is checked by the airlines when you are checking into your flight (not at customs). This is why we encourage you to get a test prior to travel, so you have confidence in your lab results when it is time to come back . Finding testing in Mexico is very easy and there is an appointment testing center in Sayulita. We will help all guests coordinate their COVID test within the 3 day window of travel. The cost of the COVID test is your responsibility and is not included in the cost of the retreat. Rapid Antigen tests are approved for re-entry and results are back within 4 hours. Cost will be around $70 USD. 

5. Do I Need To Speak Spanish?

No, you do not need to know how to speak Spanish. Sayulita is used to travelers from around the world and English is commonly spoken throughout the Nayarit area. However, this could be a great opportunity to spend the next 4 months learning Spanish. I highly recommend Rosetta Stone. Being fluent is one thing, but learning enough to order food, get directions or ask daily questions goes a long way in your overall experience in foreign countries. 

6. What Is The Food Situation?

For most days all meals will be catered. This will include Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. 2 lunches are on your own so our guests can enjoy the beach restaurants without worrying about making it back to the retreat center and try some local fair. For our meals on-site, the menu will be mostly Vegan. This was new to me when we hosted our retreat in Peru but I found the change in diet to be welcoming and refreshing. If there are any special dietary needs, we will work with you to accommodate.

7. Can I Drink The Water?

Water should be closely monitored. At our retreat center there will be filtered water available throughout. Filtered water and bottled water are okay to drink. While many restaurants will provide filtered water, we can never be sure. In Mexico it is always best to error on the side of caution and only drink bottled water or water you know has been filtered. This will prevent you from getting sick and spending 1-2 days of your retreat in your room wishing you stuck to bottled water. September is a warm time of year in Mexico, so it is important you drink lots of water. There are many Tienda's (little stores) in Sayulita to buy water from. 

8. Do I Need To Use Pesos?

You will  not have a significant need for Pesos but it is good to have some on hand throughout your trip. .As most of your trip is inclusive with the price of the Retreat, that leaves a few occasions where you might need pesos. the little Tienda's often won't accept credit cards, but they will usually accept USD. Most of the restaurants and bars do accept credit cards. If you are planning on renting surf boards, pesos could come in handy but again, USD is widely accepted. To get pesos it is best to wait until you land and pull money out of an ATM. This will give you the best exchange rate and can be done at the airport. Be sure to notify your credit cards companies and banks about your travel to Mexico. This will make your trip much smoother when it is time to pull out the credit card to buy that much needed Mexican blanket you can't live without. 

9. Do I Need To Know How To Surf?

No, you do not need to know how to surf. This is primarily a Yoga Retreat, but we are hosting it in a hot spot for surfing. Both Alex and myself surf, and we want those who do not know how to have an opportunity to learn. If you are not a water person and prefer to stay on dry land, that is perfect. In between yoga classes there will be free time, and if you desire to use that free time catching waves there will plenty of opportunity. If you are new to surfing and want some pointers from our team members, we will be happy to help. Board rentals will be your responsibility, but there are plenty of options and we will help you select the right board for your skill level. 

10. Do I Need To Be An Experienced Yogi?

Absolutely not. Alex's retreats and his teachings are based on inclusiveness. If you are a beginner or a lifetime yogi is not important. What is important is to show up with an open mind and a positive attitude. We all come from different walks of life and yoga allows us to come together as a group and as a community. 

11. Can I Come Solo?

100%. Many of our retreat guests come solo - like 90% of them. It is what makes retreats so beautiful. You do not need to come with anyone, but you will leave with a host of new friends. Don't worry if you can't get any of your friends to tag along, sign up, lean into the uncertainty and trust this is going to be an incredible experience you don't want to miss. 

12. Weather In September

September is my favorite time of year in both Baja & Nayarit (Sayulita). This is the low season for Mexico. Most kids are still in school and summer break is long gone. This means that there are far less tourists and it is the most peaceful time of year. This is the "rainy" season for Mexico. Much like the "rainy" season of Southern California, the weather is hot & humid with a few showers in the area. This may mean an afternoon thunderstorm with light rain, followed by the most amazing sunsets. But expect the days to be sunny and very warm. September is the time to visit Sayulita!