As family law professionals, we often find ourselves in emotionally charged situations with our clients. When emotions run so high, it’s difficult for clients to focus and really hear what’s going on in the negotiations. Join us on our retreat in Vieques—designed especially for attorneys, mental health professionals and financial specialists--to acquire the skills and techniques needed to help your clients regulate their emotions and restore their well-being. The bonus is these practices also work for you! Join us in Vieques and return home able to support your clients through the difficult conversations, confident in your newfound skills, revitalized, fulfilled and at peace.
Welcome to our Vieques retreat for divorce attorneys, and mental health, financial & affiliated professionals
You’re standing barefoot at the edge of the sea, where the turquoise waters of Vieques gently kiss the shore. The sand is warm beneath your feet, the breeze soft on your skin, carrying with it the faint scent of salt and sun. You inhale deeply… and something in you begins to soften. To settle. To remember.
Ahead, Sea Glass Beach stretches out in quiet beauty—untouched, peaceful. It’s just you, a few kindred souls, and the steady rhythm of the ocean. Maybe a pelican soars overhead, then dives into the surf. The island seems to speak in a language beyond words, inviting you to simply be.
As you realize you have escaped the demands of everyday life, relaxation deepens. Anticipation and hope arise in you as you embark on this transformative adventure, where personal growth, professional development, and the beauty of Vieques converge to create an unforgettable experience. You can already see the possibility of peace, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Later, on the rooftop at Casa de Amistad, you wrap your hands around a cup of rich, roasted coffee. You smile, realizing something rare: you’ve stepped out of the noise. Out of the pressure. And into something that feels like home.
This retreat isn’t a break from your life—it’s a return to yourself. It’s a necessity if you are going to sustain your work-life.
As the days unfold, you’ll find space to reconnect with your calm, your purpose, your joy. You’ll move, create, reflect, and laugh with others who understand the sacred work you do—and the toll it can take.
And somewhere between the sea, the sky, and the softness of your own breath, you begin to feel it again: clarity. Possibility. You.
Come join us. Let this be your exhale.
Embrace Your Inner Wisdom:
Wouldn’t you feel energized and grounded having a new perspective and new skills?
Absolutely! On this retreat, through practical lessons and role-playing with others of similar interests, you will gain tools and a new way of practicing so you can return home feeling confident and ready to take charge.
See New Possibilities:
Can you imagine how great it would feel being revitalized by the changes you made in your life?
On this journey, sense memory exercises, experiential role plays, and chair yoga practices foster new self-awareness that allows you to respond effectively in the face of trying circumstances, both at work and at home.
Awaken to Your Purpose:
Wouldn’t it be awesome to not feel worn out and discouraged?
It sure would! On this retreat, filled with guided meditations, silent walks, quiet reflection, and self-compassion practices, you will recharge and refresh, returning home revitalized and optimistic.
Gifts That Stay Long After the Journey Ends…
Stay Calm in the Storm:
Wouldn’t you feel relieved to know that you could maintain calm in the midst of conflict and upset?
It would be fantastic! On this retreat, through mindfulness exercises, soulful excursions, and sense memory activities, you will learn how to stay focused during your clients’ upset, so you keep the process on track and move it forward.
Be of Service to Your Clients:
Wouldn’t it be fantastic to know how to instill this calm in your clients?
That would be a breakthrough! Through inspiring lessons and intimate small group conversations, you will learn calming and centering techniques that allow your clients to face their fears and anger in a productive way.
This Sounds Amazing!
The Island
There’s a quiet magic to Vieques—a slower rhythm that invites you to exhale and just be. Unlike its more developed neighbors, this small island holds a laid-back charm that soothes the nervous system and softens the edges of a busy life. It’s the kind of place where you can finally step away from doing, and return to simply being—with yourself, with nature, and with others who are on a similar path inward.
Just off the coast of Puerto Rico lies the enchanting island of Vieques—a place where time seems to slow and the soul can finally breathe. Home to some of the Caribbean’s most pristine beaches, Vieques offers powder-soft sand, impossibly clear turquoise waters, and sunsets that seem to paint the sky just for you. As you wander along these untouched shores, far from the noise and demands of daily life, something begins to shift. The wide-open skies invite you to expand. The horizon stretches endlessly, and so does your sense of what’s possible. In this sacred, quiet beauty, you may find not only peace—but the space to remember your own vastness.
The Venue
Casa de Amistad
Your Home Away from Home
Casa de Amistad is an enchanting guesthouse that we chose for its cozy charm and eco-conscious ethos. We know you will feel at peace as you go to sleep to the sounds of the coquis and smile as you wake up to the songs of tropical birds and see the lush flora around you. Here, friendships blossom and memories are created.
Owners Mike and John are transplanted New Yorkers who discovered Casa de Amistad many years ago as guests. It is the place to rest, rejuvenate, and restore yourself.
Peace, Quiet & Tranquility Surround You
Picture yourself in the serenity of a fantastic moonlit evening at Casa de Amistad. As twilight descends, you find yourself unwinding by the shimmering pool, the day's enriching activities and soul-stirring conversations still lingering in your thoughts. The tranquil ambiance of the night soothes your senses. Above, a canopy of stars twinkles.
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You gaze up at the star-filled sky from the rooftop and absorb the energy of the Universe. Sip a piña colada and be mesmerized by the spectacle of light and promise.
Relax Inside …
The inviting, casual guest rooms nestled within the tranquil haven of Casa de Amistad offer an oasis of comfort and relaxation. Each room seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern amenities, ensuring a serene atmosphere.
Stay connected with complimentary WiFi, refreshed with air conditioning, entertained with satellite TV, and enjoy the privacy of your en suite bath. Whether you're unwinding after a day of exploration or preparing for your next adventure, your guest room provides a refuge, the perfect balance of cozy ambiance and contemporary convenience.
Can’t get much higher!
The pool and patio
Playa Negra
Sun Bay Beach
Room 7
The Rooftop
Playa Bastimento
Can’t wait to get there….
Zen Garden
Walkway between rooms at Casa de Amistad
Cuisine … Come Feed Your Soul
Imagine yourself contentedly closing your eyes, taking a deep breath, and slowly savoring new aromas and enticing flavors.
Our personal chef expertly crafted Welcome Dinner, lunch, and Farewell Dinner featuring authentic Puerto Rican cuisine will comfort and satisfy you. From wild-caught seafood dishes bursting with freshness to mouthwatering vegetarian options, every meal is a celebration of flavor and creativity that encourages you to slow down and appreciate life’s everyday wonders.
Amistad’s daily nutritious continental breakfasts provide energy for your day’s activities. Your eyes open wide with delight as you are greeted by an array of coffee, tea, fresh juices, a variety of milks, and fresh fruits - pineapple, mango, papaya, apples, pears, bananas - along with fresh local breads and pastries served with butter and jams, hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, and granola!
Plus, our neighborhood of Isabel II, is an authentic Puerto Rican pueblo with wonderful local culture, food, and character. You can comfortably stroll through the town center, exploring galleries that feature local artists, choose from an extensive variety of restaurants and bars, or grab a sandwich from one of the local panaderias and enjoy it while sitting in the local plaza.
Be ALIVE
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Be ALIVE 〰️
World-famous La Chiva Beach
During this week of activities, exercises, outings and time for reflection you will BE ALIVE! You will realize a new sense of purpose and:
A waken and become aware of the hidden traumas that affect your work
L et go of judgments that affect how you respond to your clients
I mmerse yourself in understanding the emotional reactivity & stress response that limit progress
V ision a new you that welcomes the challenges encountered in the negotiation room
E njoy your newfound skills, clarity and peace of mind
Our Approach
At this retreat we create a safe and comfortable environment where you will learn self-compassion and mindfulness practices to enhance your ability to connect with others without compromising yourself. Passion is reawakened, fueling commitment and dedication.
Focused on fostering trust, connection, and effective teamwork, our thoughtfully designed program ignites a renewed sense of purpose, reminding you of the profound impact your work has on the lives of those facing the challenges of divorce, and inspiring you to find balance in your own life.
Itinerary
Day 1: Be
As you arrive at Casa de Amistad, you begin to embrace the calming effect of island life. The tension leaves your body as you breathe in the clean air and take in your warm surroundings. You smile as the door opens to the peaceful environment that will serve as your sanctuary for the rest of the week.
> You look forward to dining with your companions tonight. As you unpack, you can already see how your body, mind, and soul will be nourished during your well-deserved break.
> Our personal Chef Vicente will prepare a delicious and authentic Welcome Dinner featuring Asopao, a rich traditional stew made with chicken thighs, rice, green olives, adobo seasoning, and homemade sangria that goes down so easily. Decadent cheesecake perfectly concludes our delightful dinner.
> Feel free to gaze at the starlit sky from our rooftop, take a dip in the pool, or stroll through the charming town plaza, soaking in the tranquil ambiance. It’s the perfect way to unwind and eagerly anticipate the enriching experiences that await you throughout the week.
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Each morning begins in silence (Don’t worry. There will be coffee!) You might take a walk through town to the local beach, or you may prefer to admire the view over the island from the rooftop, or unwind by the pool.
* Through guided meditation and sense memory work, you will become more directly aware of the hidden trauma within the work we do. Here, free from your focus on others, you will have the time, in a safe and supportive environment, to recognize the impact of the loss and pain you encounter, and how it resonates with your own past.
* Savor dinner in town at your leisure, then return to Casa to wrap up the evening with our nightly sharing circle. You can already sense the freedom and relief that come from simply focusing on yourself.
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Following your morning silent reflection, through movement and exercises you’ll explore the positive effects of the vagus nerve on relieving tension and calming your somatic experience. You will have time to relax, schedule a spa activity, or explore Isabel II before our driver, Angie, takes us across the island to Esperanza in the late afternoon.
Your internal exploration takes a surreal turn tonight as you navigate the ethereal realms of a bioluminescent bay while floating in a boat. The shimmering surface and the mysteries below resonate with your blossoming recognition of underlying, unacknowledged feelings. The beauty of self-discovery harmonizes with the challenges of divorce, fostering a deeper connection to what truly matters to you and your capacity for compassion, all while taking care of your own needs.
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During this morning’s immersive session, you will learn how to sustain and expand the work you’ve initiated, empowering you to stay true to yourself and continue experiencing the freedom that arises from what you have learned and encountered this week. You’ll leave the morning feeling grounded, energized, and eager to embark on our symbolic pilgrimage to the ancient Ceiba Tree, a living testament to resilience and hope.
As you lean against the Mother Tree, you feel calm, nurtured, and free from the fears that hold you back, safe in her embrace. You are moved by a deeply felt connection to nature, to yourself, and to the humanity we all share. You soak up her wisdom and comfort, feeling inspired and rejuvenated. After spending time with her, you will have plenty of opportunity to enjoy the aqua-blue ocean and a stunning sunset over the water. Then, you can return for a relaxing dinner on your own until we gather again for sharing later tonight.
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After this morning’s silent activities and refreshing breakfast, we’ll spend the morning on the local beach. With the warm sand beneath your feet, you feel open, curious, and empowered as you play with designing mandalas and explore against the backdrop of crystal-clear blue-green Caribbean waters.
On this final day together, we can have lunch together if you wish. You will have the afternoon to relax, reflect, take care of last-minute shopping and sightseeing, and pack.
You gather with your newfound friends for the Farewell Dinner, featuring an exquisite meal crafted by a private chef, who will delight us with piña coladas and culinary creations made from fresh local ingredients. We’ll engage in sparkling conversation, exchange funny stories, and reflect on the meaningful insights you've gained throughout the retreat.
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We will say our goodbyes during our final breakfast together. A brief activity will reinforce what you have learned and experienced about being present in the moment. You will leave feeling clear and confident, with peace of mind, serenity, and balance.
Day 2
Day 4
Day 3
Day 6
Chef Vicente
Playa Media Luna
Local Church
Vicente’s Sangria
Sun Bay Beach
Our driver, Angie
What You Will Walk Away With…
Can you imagine the feeling of serenity you will have when your negotiations no longer leave you worn out and discouraged?
That sounds so good! On this retreat, you will engage in relaxation techniques, sleep meditations, and yoga flows. You will release tension and trauma from your work, so that you can return home, sleep through the night, and wake up refreshed.
Can you imagine feeling refreshed and eager to get to the office knowing you will be energized throughout the day?
That sounds so good!. On this retreat you will learn that when emotions present - and they always do – you will have the techniques at hand to help your clients get centered and present, to stabilize the room so that clear, reasoned negotiations can take place. This leaves you clear and focused without expending unnecessary energy.
How awesome would it be to be focused, present, and clear?
VERY! Being focused and clear is not just for your clients! You will benefit from these techniques as well. You will find that being truly present is a richer way of working and a richer way of being at home and at work.
Can you imagine feeling free from always having to be “on”?
Is that possible? YES. Through relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises and reflection you will learn to reset priorities so that you can reconnect with your “non-work” self.
Wouldn’t it feel wonderful to be fulfilled again?
That’s my dream! Through journaling and guided imagery with us, you’ll get your creative juices flowing and at home you will pursue your interests and desires, look forward to going to work and enjoy being with your family and friends.
YOUR BONUSES
A PRE-TRIP ZOOM MEETING: Build a deeper connection with everyone. Obtain guidance on setting your intention and begin the retreat process before we leave.
YOUR OWN PRP: We’ll guide the creation of your own Personal Recovery Plan that you will take home to support your ongoing transformation.
FOUR POST-TRIP GROUP MEETINGS: Every two (2) weeks for eight (8) weeks we will meet to ease your re-entry home, sustain your momentum and transformation, prevent falling back into old habits, incorporate your new learnings and experiences, and enhance the expression of your authentic self.
Sign Me Up…
Integration & Lasting Impact
You emerge from the Vieques retreat, feeling empowered by your ability to navigate challenging interactions with grace and wisdom.
You are now a focused beacon of light, guiding others toward deeper understanding and connection. As you bid farewell to each other and return to work, you carry with you renewed clarity, enthusiasm, and a sense of community. With every interaction, you inspire others to embrace vulnerability, authenticity, and genuine human connection. You now breathe new life into your work and your life.
By the end of your time with us, you gain the ability to listen with compassion, allowing you to return to work and life feeling balanced and confident.
Why Vieques?
Vieques offers an unspoiled shoreline, crystalline beaches, a vast nature preserve, and free-roaming horses. It is the perfect environment for you to slow down, relax, and reflect. Drawing on the resilience and hope of the Vieques people (which persist even after their history of natural disasters and damages by U.S. military training/exercises), you find the inspiration and strength to make the changes you long for. Your transformation comes easily within the raw beauty and wonder of this island.
This is the retreat I’ve been waiting for!
You yearn for experiences that are challenging, awe-inspiring, heart-opening, and above all… LIFE-changing.
You’re eager and happy to learn new skills.
You crave freedom and time to recharge and be nurtured.
You want to connect with new people to exchange ideas and expand your community.
You’re adventurous, courageous and willing to take some risks.
You are frustrated, discouraged, or burnt out by your work and need some “me” time.
You’re open to taking a look at yourself.
You love that you can take a tax-deductible break for yourself in a warm and beautiful place.
You’re both excited and curious about this trip!
If you answered YES to even one of these points, then this retreat is for you.
This Retreat is for you if…
This Retreat is Probably NOT for You if…
You’re uninterested in exploring what holds you back.
You prefer an all-inclusive environment to exploring the local culture.
You have trouble walking or climbing up and down flights of stairs.
Playa Navio
Image credit: ViequesInsider.com
Be ALIVE
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Be ALIVE 〰️
What’s Included
Personalized pre-retreat conversation to define your goals
5 nights at Casa de Amistad in Isabel II, Vieques
Four incredible days of soulful experiences and meaningful conversations, including mindfulness and self-compassion coursework
Colorful accommodations with comfy beds, a dedicated bath and WiFi
Arrival Welcome Dinner with fresh homemade sangria, savory Puerto Rican cuisine and luscious dessert
Five tasty breakfasts
Mouth-watering Farewell Dinner of fresh local fish as available, flan, piña coladas, and accompaniments
Access to a variety of culinary experiences, from food trucks to exquisite tropical cuisine and creative cocktails
Local beach within walking distance and access to other unspoiled beaches and a nature preserve by taxi or car rental
Pool and rooftop for stargazing, exclusively ours
Trip to the ancient Ceiba Tree and nearby beach
Boat trip on the Bioluminescent Bay (weather permitting)
Deepened friendships and expanded community
A tax deduction and LOTS of Continuing Education Credits (See FAQ below)
What’s Not Included
Your round-trip airfare from home.
Transportation to and from San Juan airport - by a Vieques Airlink flight, a CapeAir flight, or ferry.
Taxi service from the Vieques airport (Guesthouse is within walking distance of ferry)
Souvenir shopping expenses, spa services, taxis, and laundry.
All tips for the drivers, guides, housekeepers, and any massage services.
Lunches and 3 dinners for the opportunity to try local fare.
Daily beverages aside from water and tea and coffee.
Personal, medical or travel/trip cancellation insurance.
I’m jumping in!
Your Retreat Team
Louise R. Zito
My latest story begins in 2020 when I decided to retire as a full-time attorney mediator and collaborative divorce professional: that’s a mouthful…
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My latest story begins in 2020 when I decided to retire as a full-time attorney mediator and collaborative divorce professional: that’s a mouthful…
Previous “careers” included theatre, mime, period dance, costuming, boutique wine importing and teaching mime and theatre arts. I moved to Puerto Rico in 2021. I stopped practicing law in 2022 and started to reinvent myself. I continued to train mediators and conduct advance trainings in mediation and collaborative divorce, but something was missing.
I found that I was incorporating theatre and movement techniques into my trainings and seeing parallels between mediation, theatre, mime and meditation. I also found that I had more time for reflection about things that bothered me: why does a process fail? Why don’t we talk about the trauma in our work and personal lives? And, things that pleased me: thinking out loud with like-minded people and bringing peace into the world.
I wanted to expand on these discoveries and during a conversation in 2022 with my friend Beth, one or both of us said, “Let’s hold a retreat for divorce professionals looking for rejuvenation and/or their next life adventure!”
We agreed that Puerto Rico would be the perfect place: naturally beautiful, peaceful, and perfectly imperfect.
I look forward to Being ALIVE*, continuing my adventures with Beth, and joining in new adventures with those of you engaging in our Retreats and in our Workshops. Let the fun, sun and living begin…
*BE: Awake and aware
Letting go and living in the moment
Immersive and inspirational
Visionary and vital
Enjoying life
Beth M. Karassik
I am thrilled to create this retreat and expand Calma Collective!
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Unlike Louise, I transitioned directly from college to graduate school and then to my career as a psychologist, ultimately specializing in neuropsychology. I grew up and attended college in the Northeast, went to graduate school in the South, and then moved to the West Coast for my internship. I got married, and my two sons were fifth-generation Californians, which is quite unusual. We relocated to Connecticut when they were young to be closer to my family. I am still at the group practice I joined in 1989. I first met Louise when she referred a child to me for an evaluation for lead poisoning.
After my divorce, I trained in mediation and collaborative divorce in Connecticut to do my part in bringing a bit of peace into the world. That’s where I really got to know Louise, and we became trusted friends. We co-mediated divorces and worked on collaborative teams together. After Louise settled in Puerto Rico for her semi-retirement, we began scouting locations to hold a retreat there so that professionals doing this challenging work could take time to step away and focus on their own well-being.
Planning was postponed for several years after I experienced a series of deaths in my immediate family. I also turned 65. Both automatically and with conscious thought, I paused to reflect on my life and what remains of it - how I envision the next 20, 30, or 40 years (after all, my grandmother lived until 104). I allowed myself time to grieve and focus on my well-being.
Now my light is reignited! Calma Collective and designing retreats combine my commitment to making a difference for people with my knowledge and experience as a neuropsychologist, alongside my love of travel!
Testimonials
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"Beth and Louise are the real deal! They bring together the wisdom of mental health and legal perspectives in a way that is truly inspiring and resonates deeply with those of us working in divorce and conflict resolution. They are insightful. compassionate, practical, and down-to-earth…their retreats and events can provide immeasurable value to professionals who want to strengthen their skills while also caring for their own growth and well-being."
Laurie DeNigris, Attorney & Mediator
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“The guided meditation session was excellent. The pace made it accessible and cues lead me to consider my mind and thinking in a novel and surprising way. Hope to repeat the experience.”
Kate Fast, Consultant & MBSR colleague
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"Louise provides a unique perspective to the art of mediation and readily shares her knowledge and experience with the group."
40-Hour Basic Divorce Mediation participant
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"I can see how much time and effort has gone into making this training a success. I am very grateful to Eva, Louise, Beth and Jody for imparting their wisdom on me. Thank you for doing this important work."
40-Hour Basic Divorce Mediation participant
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"Beth is a calm and welcoming presence in the training. Her knowledge and openness are helpful and supportive."
40-Hour Basic Divorce Mediation participant
Please count me in!
Answers to Your (Frequently Asked) Questions
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The $750 USD deposit is non-refundable. Cancellations made on or before January 4, 2026, will result in the loss of 50% of the funds paid, excluding your deposit. Cancellations on or after January 5, 2026 will result in a 100% loss of payments made. If we determine that the trip is not a good fit for you, we reserve the right to cancel your reservation, in which case all your payments will be fully refunded. We also reserve the right to cancel the trip if it does not meet the minimum requirement of 5 participants; if that occurs, all payments will be refunded.
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If you would like to be paired with a roommate, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to match you with someone else who is also looking for a roommate. Then you’ll have the opportunity to meet and get to know all your fellow travelers during our pre-trip online gathering.
If no one is available to pair you with, your room will be considered a single, and an additional $500 single occupancy supplement will be added to your retreat fee.
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We will do all we can to accommodate your dietary restrictions. In the materials we send you, please clearly state any allergies and intolerances you have.
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Yes, we require travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage. Be sure to read the fine print, as policies can vary significantly.
While you’re at it, be sure to confirm with your travel insurance provider what Covid-19-related issues are covered and to what extent.
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This journey is for you and your business, so we encourage you to come on your own. However, we understand it may be more comfortable to travel with a companion or family, so let us know if that is your preference and we can discuss the arrangement and additional guest fee. Once the retreat is over, your family is welcome to join you, and you can stay on for a few extra days together. Please contact Casa de Amistad directly to arrange the additional days, for which they offer a 10% discount.
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Expect the temperature in Vieques in March to range from about 72 to 80 degrees, providing very pleasant temperatures throughout the day. Be sure to bring something to cover up for the evenings, which can be breezy, and for air conditioning. There may be some rain, so light rain gear and/or a hat would serve you well.
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When you start packing for this incredible adventure, plan to be comfortable, casual and laid back. You won’t need anything formal. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, visors or hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Once you decide to join us, we will provide a more detailed list of what to bring and what not to bring.
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By all means, enjoy this beautiful place for as long as you want! Mike & John at Casa de Amistad offer a 10% discount when you continue your stay. If you plan to stay over, consider reserving now to ensure availability, as it is still high season.
The retreat officially ends after breakfast on March 20th, but you have all kinds of options and possibilities at your fingertips.
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Yes, you will be able to stay connected with your loved ones and go online. WiFi is available almost everywhere at Casa de Amistad. That said, the more you can disconnect from your life back home, the better the impact of this experience, so please plan to be “off the grid” as much as possible.
Cell phones will be left outside during training sessions.
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To neutralize your carbon footprint, you can buy carbon offsets for your trip. We will provide information once you decide to join us.
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Your safety and well-being are important to us! We will adhere to all CDC and Puerto Rico Department of Health COVID-19 travel requirements at the time of travel and keep you informed of any updates.
If you are concerned about rooming with someone who has made a different vaccination choice than you, please let us know your needs in the pre-event forms and we will do our best to accommodate you.
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We will provide Certificates of Completion for 12 credit hours for your records. This is sufficient for most financial professionals and attorneys in self-reporting states.
Contact Us
Questions?
Ready to take the next step?
Book your consultation now. It only takes a minute.
No more doubt!
