Getaway in Tulum, 2024

Five Days in Tulum: Cenotes, Beaches, and Taco-Fueled Friendships

Tulum. The name conjures images of pristine beaches, ancient ruins perched on cliffs, and lush jungles teeming with life that engulf centro, the main downtown area in Tulum. And let me tell you, it lives up to the hype.

From exploring hidden cenotes to forging friendships over tacos, Tulum has a magic all its own.

Founding Escape Artists Krystina, Scarlet, and Stassja.

Diving into the Depths of Gran Cenote

Our adventure began with a refreshing dip in Gran Cenote, a natural wonder that's a must-see for any Tulum visitor.

The crystal-clear water was cool and inviting, and we spent hours snorkeling, marveling at the underwater formations and the playful turtles that call this cenote home.

It's a truly magical experience, swimming in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by the echoes of ancient Mayan history.

Scarlet relaxing with some locals at Gran Cenote

Sun, Sand, and Serenity at a Secret Beach

Tulum's beaches are legendary, but sometimes you need to escape the crowds.

We jumped into a taxi to make our way to one of the only free public beaches left in Tulum.

We spent the day soaking up the sun, swimming in the warm ocean, and letting all over our worries melt away.

Founding Escape Artists Krystina, Scarlet, and Stassja at Getaway in Tulum at Sana Tulum.

Hidden Gem: Honorio Tacos

Food is an essential part of any travel experience, and Tulum's culinary scene is simply divine.

Our newfound friends recommended we check out Honorio Tacos, a local favorite known for its authentic and mouthwatering tacos. But the best part wasn't just the food; it was the people.

We struck up a conversation with a mother daughter duo from Costa Rica, and before I knew it, we were sharing stories, laughing, and making plans to join up on future getaways together.

That's the beauty of travel – the unexpected connections and the friendships that blossom over shared experiences and delicious food.

Best tacos in Tulum at Taqueria Honorio.

New friends made and memories to last a lifetime!

Day 4: Business Brainstorming over Coffee

Tulum isn't just about relaxation and adventure; it's also a hub for creative minds and entrepreneurs.

We spent a morning at a local coffee shop, surrounded by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the buzz of inspiring conversations.

Our group spent hours workshopping business ideas, sharing insights, and motivating each other. It was a reminder that travel can be a catalyst for personal and professional growth, sparking new ideas and igniting passions.

Business Development Workshops with making connections.

Farewell, Tulum, but Not Goodbye

As our five-day adventure came to an end, I felt a pang of sadness, but also a sense of gratitude.

Tulum had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and human connection. I left with a treasure trove of memories, new friendships, and a renewed sense of inspiration.

Getaway in Tulum is powered by Solving for Why Coaching with Dr. Mark Shrime.

Tips for Exploring Tulum:

• Rent a bike: It's the best way to get around and explore the town and the beach at your own pace. Most Airbnb’s in centro include rental options right at your doorstep for around $200mxn-$300mxn each.

• Embrace the local cuisine: Don't be afraid to venture beyond the tourist traps and try the authentic Mexican food at local restaurants and street stalls. I cannot recommend Honorio Tacos enough.

• Explore Gran Cenotes: Tulum is home to numerous cenotes, each with its own unique charm. On Apple Maps the destination said “closed” but we showed up and were able to enter anyways. We paid $500mxn each to enter the park.

• Connect with fellow travelers: Strike up conversations, share stories, and make new friends. Offer to take other travelers pictures when you see them taking selfies, ask questions about the area or recommendations, and dive into a casual conversion from there, you never know who you might connect with.

• Be mindful of the environment: Tulum is a fragile ecosystem, so do your part to protect it. Be sure to shower before jumping into Gran Cenote and the beaches. Sunscreen is detrimental and can harm wildlife.

Tulum is a destination that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Want to join in our our next one? Join the waitlist here.

🔥 Trending Pop-Up Event Ideas for 2025

What’s Hot, What’s Selling Out, and What to Launch Next

If you’ve been dreaming about launching a pop-up event — something intimate, experiential, and wildly aligned with your brand — 2025 is your year.

Why? Because audiences are craving real-world connection, micro-moments of transformation, and curated experiences they can talk about and share.

Here’s what’s trending in the world of pop-up events this year, and what you can start planning now.

🌿 1. Silent Wellness Experiences

Think: sound baths, breathwork, walking meditations, or movement classes — with minimal speaking and maximum presence.

Why it's hot:

• Screens are exhausting people.

• Silence is the new luxury.

• These events feel deeply sacred and shareable.

Bonus tip: Use noise-canceling headphones or host in secluded outdoor spaces to create immersive, grounded atmospheres.

💻 2. Digital Detox Pop-Ups

One-day or half-day pop-ups where phones go in pouches and attendees reconnect with themselves and others.

Popular formats:

• Analog journaling sessions

• Phone-free coffee circles

• Creative workshops (writing, painting, pottery)

• Nature-based challenges

Why it works in 2025: People are digitally drained and crave intentional disconnection — especially in urban spaces.

🧠 3. Micro-Workshops with Macro Impact

These are short, punchy, highly curated pop-ups focused on one powerful takeaway.

Trending topics:

• Somatic goal setting

• Nervous system education

• Human design for business

• Feminine leadership activations

Keep it simple: 90 minutes, 12–20 people, one transformation.

🍽️ 4. Sensory Dining Experiences

Food meets story meets embodiment.

Popular pairings in 2025:

• Plant-based multi-course meals + poetry

• Sacred cacao or tea ceremonies with sound healing

• “Taste + touch” guided dinner meditations

Great for collabs with chefs, herbalists, or storytellers — especially in art galleries, gardens, or off-grid venues.

🛍️ 5. Pop-Up Retreat Previews

Want to build hype before a full retreat? Host a mini version in your city.

Ideas include:

• One-day immersive (movement, workshop, meal)

• 3-hour intro to your method or philosophy

• Community circle + Q&A on the retreat vision

Why it works: You build trust, capture leads, and get great content to promote your retreat organically.

🌆 6. Rooftop or Studio "Sunset Sessions"

A 2025 vibe that’s sticking: golden hour gatherings in elevated or unexpected places.

Trending themes:

• Movement + mocktails

• DJ sets + embodied movement

• Intention setting circles with city views

Pro tip: Partner with local photographers or creators to amplify post-event content.

🔮 7. Astro-Aligned Events

New moons, eclipses, solstices — 2025 is all about aligning with the cosmic calendar.

What’s trending:

• Lunar embodiment sessions

• Cosmic vision boarding

• Astrology x journaling mash-ups

Plan your event calendar with the stars and watch your audience grow.

🎟️ Want In on These Trends?

You don’t have to do it alone. We help new and emerging facilitators:

• Design on-trend pop-up experiences

• Source dreamy venues or outdoor spaces

• Handle production, permits, and logistics

• Grow your community from your first event

📥 Book a free planning call (and add the message “Trending Pop Upsto explore your first (or next!) pop-up.

🌿 How to Find the Perfect Retreat Venue (Without Visiting 10 Locations)

Choosing the right venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a retreat. The space sets the tone, supports your programming, and influences your guests’ overall experience. But let’s be real—endless research, unanswered inquiries, and site visits can eat up weeks of your time.

The good news? You don’t need to tour 10 spaces or spend hours in spreadsheets to find “the one.” With the right criteria (and a little concierge support), you can confidently choose a venue that fits your vision and makes your job easier.

Here’s how to do it.

✨ 1. Start With the Feeling, Not Just the Specs

Before diving into square footage and pricing, get clear on the emotional tone you want your retreat to create. Ask yourself:

• What do I want guests to feel the moment they arrive?

• Is this space meant to be grounding, luxurious, rustic, intimate?

• Will it inspire stillness, transformation, play, connection?

Knowing this guides your search and narrows your options dramatically.

🎯 Concierge Tip: We always start with your vibe and values before suggesting venue matches. It saves time and creates stronger alignment.

📍 2. Narrow Your Ideal Region or Travel Radius

Instead of searching "retreat centers in [country]," zoom in:

• What airports are convenient for your audience?

• Are you looking for remote immersion or close-to-home ease?

• Will you provide transportation, or do you need easy car access?

Set a clear regional boundary to make your search more efficient.

🛏️ 3. Clarify Capacity and Room Types Early

Venues often look perfect until you realize they only sleep 8 and you need room for 14. Create a basic list of:

• Total guest count

• Number of shared vs. private rooms

• Beds per room

• Staff or facilitator accommodations

Bonus: Ask if they have floor plans or sample room charts.

🍽️ 4. Understand Their Food & Facilities Model

Some retreat centers are all-inclusive with on-site chefs. Others are DIY or semi-supported. Figure out:

• Are meals included? Customizable? Dietary-friendly?

• Is there a guest kitchen? Staff kitchen?

• Do you need to rent catering separately?

This drastically affects your budget, your schedule, and your staffing needs.

📅 5. Get Clear on Booking Terms

Before you fall in love, clarify:

• Minimum/maximum night requirements

• Refund and cancellation policy

• Deposit due dates

• Required insurance or permits

• Quiet hours or community restrictions

🧾 Concierge Tip: We review contracts with our clients to flag hidden fees, vague policies, or inflexible clauses.

📷 6. Do a Visual + Energy Audit (Even If You Can’t Visit)

If you can’t tour in person, request:

• Recent unfiltered photos or videos

• A virtual walk-through call

• Guest or facilitator testimonials

And most importantly—trust your gut. If the vibe feels off or the communication is slow or unclear, it’s okay to move on.

🧭 7. Get Help From People Who Know Retreats

Venue hunting can be draining if you’re doing it alone. Instead, consider working with a retreat concierge team who:

• Knows vetted, aligned venues

• Can check availability and handle outreach

• Understands what facilitators actually need on the ground

It’s not just about a pretty location—it’s about logistics, flow, and support.

You Deserve a Venue That Works With You — Not Against You

Finding your dream retreat venue shouldn’t feel like chasing a moving target. With a clear vision and a focused checklist, you can skip the stress and say yes with confidence.

Need Help Scouting?

We offer:

• Custom venue sourcing based on your needs + vibe

• Contract review + comparison tools

• Local vendor recommendations for a full retreat experience

📞 Book a Free Discovery Call

📥 Get Our Venue Checklist

🌿 Planning Your First Retreat? Here’s Exactly What to Focus On (So You Don’t Burn Out)

Planning your first retreat is exciting… and let’s be honest, a little overwhelming. You’re holding the vision of transformation, healing, or creativity for a group of people — and making it happen involves a lot more than just picking a pretty venue.

The good news? You don’t need to do it perfectly. You just need to approach it with clarity, intention, and support.

Here’s a simple, smart breakdown to help you plan your first retreat with confidence — without the burnout.

✨ 1. Start With the Why

Before anything else, get crystal clear on the purpose of your retreat.

Ask yourself:

• What do I want people to walk away feeling?

• What transformation am I guiding them through?

• What makes this experience different from an online program or workshop?

Your “why” becomes your filter for every decision you make — from the venue to the vibe to your daily schedule.

🎯 2. Define Your Ideal Guest

The best retreats are designed for specific people.

Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, get focused:

• Who is this for?

• What are they going through right now?

• What kind of support, setting, and structure will serve them best?

Pro tip: Create a “retreat persona” — a fictional version of your ideal guest — and build every detail around them.

🧭 3. Choose the Right Location (Not Just a Pretty One)

Location matters — but not just for aesthetics.

Ask yourself:

• Is this location easy enough to get to?

• Does it support the vibe I’m creating?

• Will my audience feel safe and at ease here?

• Do I need nature immersion, luxury, or cultural richness?

Don’t forget to factor in time zones, airport access, and driving distance.

🛏️ 4. Source a Venue That Supports the Experience

Your venue is your co-host. Make sure it:

• Has enough beds for your ideal group size

• Offers common areas for connection + movement

• Feels aligned with your brand and your audience

• Is flexible with meal options or has an in-house chef

• Has clear policies, fair pricing, and strong communication

Feeling stuck? We help new retreat hosts find fully vetted venues that align with your values and vision — without overwhelm.

🧘 5. Build a Schedule That Balances Depth + Downtime

First-time hosts often overfill the schedule (hello burnout). Resist the urge.

A great retreat flow includes:

• Arrival buffer time (for grounding + decompression)

• A strong daily rhythm (morning ritual, mid-day anchor, evening close)

• Breaks and integration time

• Optional vs. required sessions

Leave room for magic — your guests will thank you.

💸 6. Price It Right — And Plan for Profit

Retreats are an investment. Don’t undercharge or rush your budget.

Start with:

• Fixed costs (venue, food, travel, support team)

• Flexible costs (gift bags, materials, excursions)

• Your time and energy (this is part of your pricing!)

• Add a healthy margin for profit and unexpected needs

Need help? We can help you reverse-engineer a pricing model that makes your retreat both accessible and profitable.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 7. Don’t Do It Alone

Even if you’re a solopreneur, you don’t have to plan alone. Consider:

• A co-facilitator or guest teacher

• A retreat producer or concierge team

• Local vendors and guides

• On-site support for meals, logistics, and setup

Your job is to hold space — not to manage spreadsheets while guests are arriving.

🌺 You Deserve Support, Too

Hosting your first retreat should feel aligned, spacious, and nourishing — not stressful and chaotic. With the right plan (and partners), you can create a truly transformational experience for your guests and for yourself.

Need Help Bringing It All Together?

We offer concierge-level support for first-time retreat hosts:

• Venue sourcing

• Production + vendor coordination

• Schedule planning and pricing strategy

• Launch guidance + backend systems

📥 Reach Out for a Free Planning Call (add message “First Retreat Support”

✅ Pop-Up Event Checklist: Everything You Need to Host with Confidence

Pop-up events are bold, beautiful, and buzz-worthy. Whether you’re planning a one-day workshop, a mini marketplace, or a curated dinner experience, pop-ups pack power into a short timeline. But they also come with a unique challenge: you only get one shot to get it right.

At Getaway, we specialize in helping hosts like you go from concept to execution—without the stress. Here’s your ultimate pop-up event checklist to ensure you’ve covered every critical detail (and a few that make all the difference).

✍️ 1. Clarify Your Event Vision

Before you book anything:

• What's the theme or vibe?

• Who is this for?

• What’s the transformation or takeaway?

Concierge Tip: We can help you develop your vision and map it into a real production timeline.

📍 2. Secure the Right Venue

Pop-ups need a space that’s:

• Flexible, accessible, and on-brand

• Easy to load in/out

• Equipped with proper facilities (power, bathrooms, parking)

Don’t forget to ask: Are permits required for food, sound, or gatherings?

📋 3. Plan Your Flow & Layout

Think through:

• Guest entry/check-in process

• Seating or gathering zones

• Stations, booths, or activities

• Back-of-house/staff areas

Concierge Tip: We design flow maps and layouts so every inch of your space works for you.

🎤 4. Book Vendors + Rentals

Most pop-ups require:

• Seating, tables, lighting

• A/V (mic, speaker, music source)

• Food & beverage (catering or DIY snack bar)

• Decor + ambiance elements

Bonus: Consider local vendors for florals, artisan goods, or entertainment.

⏳ 5. Build Your Timeline

Start from the day-of and work backward:

• Load-in & setup schedule

• Guest arrival window

• Key activities or sessions

• Breakdown & cleanup plan

Concierge Tip: We create production schedules that keep things running like clockwork (even when surprises happen).

📣 6. Market with Intention

Promotion matters! Consider:

• Event page or landing page

• Social media countdowns & reels

• RSVP system or ticketing platform

• Email reminders and what-to-bring guides

Concierge Tip: We help you set up systems that capture sign-ups and manage communications with ease.

🧘‍♀️ 7. Staffing & Support

Even small events need:

• A greeter or check-in lead

• Someone managing vendors or tech

• A floater to handle unexpected needs

Pro Tip: This doesn’t have to be you. Our concierge team steps in so you can host, not hustle.

🧼 8. End Strong with a Thoughtful Exit

Plan a closing moment:

• Thank you takeaway or gift

• Feedback or QR survey station

• Strike-down and cleanup flow

The goodbye is part of the memory—make it intentional.

Ready to Pop Up with Confidence?

Whether it’s your first event or your tenth, every pop-up needs a plan. Our team can help you skip the trial and error with on-the-ground support, local sourcing, and seamless day-of coordination—so you can show up as the creative host you are.

🎉 Need a Shortcut?

Download our FREE Pop-Up Event Checklist or book a 20-minute planning call to get your concept mapped in 20 minutes.

📞 Schedule Your Call

📥Click to download file.

✨7 Little Touches That Make Your Retreat Feel Like Magic

Planning a retreat is more than booking a venue and building a schedule. It's about crafting an experience so immersive, so thoughtful, that your guests walk away feeling transformed—even by the smallest details.

At Getaway, we’ve helped bring dozens of retreats to life, and the truth is: it’s not just the big things that matter. It’s the subtle, intentional touches that leave lasting impressions.

Here are 7 little touches that turn a good retreat into a magical one:

1. Personalized Welcome Gifts

The moment your guests arrive sets the tone. A curated welcome kit—complete with their name, a hand-written note, locally sourced treats, or a mini self-care item—instantly says "you belong here."

Concierge Tip: Let us source locally-made items that reflect the essence of your retreat location.

2. Intuitive Signage and Flow

No one wants to feel lost at a retreat. Clear but elegant signage that guides guests from space to space not only reduces stress but reinforces the aesthetic and rhythm of your event.

Concierge Tip: We design signage that’s functional and photo-worthy—yes, even your wayfinding can be on brand.

3. Comfort Corners

Create cozy pockets around your venue—think tea bars, journaling nooks, or cozy blankets by the fire. These are the quiet spaces where integration and inspiration happen.

Concierge Tip: We scout the venue to find (or create) natural comfort zones that fit your retreat’s vibe.

4. Surprise & Delight Moments

Unannounced experiences like a pop-up sound bath, sunrise cacao ceremony, or handwritten notes left on pillows create unforgettable memories.

Concierge Tip: We coordinate timing and setup behind the scenes so these moments feel spontaneous—but run smoothly.

5. Locally Rooted Details

Whether it’s seasonal menus, indigenous crafts, or stories from local guides, weaving in the spirit of the place elevates the authenticity of your retreat.

Concierge Tip: We source trusted local vendors, artisans, and cultural touchpoints to keep your event rooted in respect and richness.

6. Seamless Tech & Ambience

The right lighting, smooth sound transitions, and curated playlists help guests feel held by the environment—even if they don’t consciously notice why.

Concierge Tip: Our team manages all tech and ambiance coordination so you can stay focused on connection, not cables.

7. A Beautiful Goodbye

Closing your retreat with an intentional goodbye ritual—flower offerings, a takeaway token, or a group photo moment—creates emotional closure and celebration.

Concierge Tip: We help design and stage meaningful closing moments that linger long after departure.

Final Thoughts: The Magic Is in the Moments

Retreat magic isn’t accidental—it’s carefully crafted through layers of detail, presence, and purpose.

When you have the right support, you can focus on the heart of your work while we handle the invisible threads that hold it all together.

✨ Ready to Create a Seamless, Soulful Retreat?

Let’s talk. Book a FREE 20-minute Vibe Mapping Discovery Call and we’ll help you uncover the details that will make your next event unforgettable.

👉 Schedule Your Call and add the message “Retreat Vibe Mapping”

🎉 How to Plan a Successful Pop-Up Event (Even If You’ve Never Hosted Before)

Pop-up events are fast, flexible, and full of possibility. Whether it’s a curated marketplace, wellness workshop, community dinner, or creative collab—you don’t need a giant budget or years of experience to pull it off.

You do need a solid plan, thoughtful details, and the confidence to bring your idea to life.

If this is your first time hosting, this guide will walk you through the exact steps to plan a successful pop-up event—from concept to execution—with none of the guesswork.

✨ Step 1: Define the Vision (Not Just the Idea)

Start with the heart of the experience:

• What is the vibe? (Inspiring, playful, sacred, celebratory?)

• Who is this for?

• What will guests walk away with?

This clarity will guide everything—venue, vendors, pricing, and promotion.

💡 Concierge Tip: We often help new hosts shape their raw ideas into a full vision, and map it to logistics that work.

📍 Step 2: Choose the Right Venue

Your space should:

• Fit your guest count + activity needs

• Be easy to access and load in/out

• Match your brand or concept aesthetically

Look into:

• Local studios or creative spaces

• Private homes or backyards

• Cafés, co-working spaces, or community centers

📝 Pro Tip: Always check for permits or insurance needs, especially for food, sound, or alcohol.

📋 Step 3: Create a Run of Show (AKA Your Event Day Ops)

Map out the full timeline:

• Setup start time

• Guest arrival + welcome flow

• Main activities or programming

• Breaks or transitions

• Closing + cleanup window

Include buffers so you don’t feel rushed. Even short pop-ups need pacing!

🎤 Step 4: Source Vendors & Rentals (Only What You Need)

At minimum, think about:

• Seating, tables, or floor setups

• Sound (mic, speaker, playlists)

• Food & drink (catered, local, DIY snack station)

• Decor (rent, thrift, or collaborate with artists)

Keep it simple but intentional. A few well-placed details go a long way.

💡 Concierge Tip: We help hosts find reliable, local vendors that match your style and budget.

📣 Step 5: Promote with Purpose

You don’t need to go viral—you need the right people to say yes. Focus on:

• An RSVP or ticketing link

• A clear event name and 2–3 sentence pitch

• Eye-catching visuals for Instagram, email, and Pinterest

• Reminders 2 weeks, 1 week, and 1 day before

💬 Bonus Tip: Tell your why. Passion is contagious—especially for pop-up events rooted in community or creative vision.

🤝 Step 6: Set the Tone with Thoughtful Touches

What will make guests feel welcomed, seen, and inspired?

• A curated welcome table

• Name tags or intention cards

• Takeaway gift or keepsake

• Photo moments or feedback wall

✨ These little moments are what people remember—and talk about.

🧘 Step 7: Let Go of Perfection (But Not Support)

Your first event doesn’t have to be flawless—it just has to be real. What matters most is connection, creativity, and showing up fully.

That said, having a support team (or even one extra pair of hands!) makes a massive difference in:

• Setup and teardown

• Managing vendors or tech

• Keeping things flowing smoothly

🤝 Concierge Support: We offer pop-up production support to help you shine—while we handle the moving parts behind the scenes.

🚀 You’re Closer Than You Think

Pop-ups don’t need to be huge to be powerful. With the right structure, support, and soul, your first event can launch your vision, grow your community, or open doors you haven’t even imagined yet.

Want a Shortcut?

Check out our Pop-Up Planning Checklist or book a 20-minute call to talk through your concept.

We’ll help you move from “maybe someday” to fully mapped out.

📞 Book Your Free Call and add the message “Pop Up Planning”