San Miguel Retreats
Wondrous Writers' Retreat
October 6-12, 2026
Escape to magical San Miguel de Allende to pamper your creative self!
Enjoy inspired coaching and camaraderie in a creative community
of other wondrous writers —all in the heart of México.
Wondrous Writers' Retreat
October 6-12, 2026
I can shake off everything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn.
— Anne Frank
What's Included
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Wondrous writing adventures at the hot springs, botanical gardens, our local library and onsite at Casa de La Paz.
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Cleansing ritual at La Gruta hot springs to release our inner critic(s).
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Wedded to My Wondrous Writer inspiring and inspired ceremony.
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Guided writing practices and time for sharing your work in a supportive community.
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Several meals included, as noted below, including healthy snacks + beverages to stay nourished.
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Presentation skills / improv workshop to build confidence, develop your voice, gain stage experience... and have FUN in the process:)
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Open Mic at a local cafe with an invited audience.
- Campfire under the stars. Bring your stories and songs!
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Plenty of free time to explore magical San Miguel (you might enjoy optional sessions with local practitioners - extra fees apply.)
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massage
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hypnotherapy
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life coaching
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​osteopathic session (a personal fav of Joseph's!)
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What's Not Included
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Airfare and ground transportation to the retreat.
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Traveler's insurance (recommended.)
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Accommodations and meals — aside from those included above.
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Transportation other than to above field trips.
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Healing services and therapies as noted above.
Kind Words
"A beautiful and peaceful retreat! Eli and Joseph went above and beyond to make us feel at home and provide us with everything we needed."
Jennifer, Iowa City, IA
"I've been in awe since our class ended. I never expected results like this! Thank you so much for helping us see what we can't."
Traci, Philadelphia, PA
"My time with Eli and Joseph was pure love and light into creating my vision... their work supported and inspired my dreams. Thank you dear ones... I'm so grateful for your work!"
Bobbi, Brooklyn, NY
"Eli and Joseph are masterful facilitators of group process. With a light touch and great wisdom, they know how to bring out the best in people!"
Mitch, Catskills, NY
Where and When?
The retreat takes place in San Miguel de Allende, México at our property Casa de la Paz.
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San Miguel de Allende is truly a magical place in the center of Mexico, voted #1 city in the world several times since 2013.
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Your retreat is being offered from October 6-12, 2026.
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The retreat is open to the first 10 people who register.
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*There are 3 loving and adorable rescue dogs on the property as well—they're great at giving hugs, or leaving you alone if your prefer.
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Charming curved stone entrance into
Casa de la Paz... The House of Peace.
Your Retreat Facilitators
Eli Hans and Joseph Bennett are multi-passionate retreat and workshop leaders, artists, writers, and life and business coaches. We have a shared passion of supporting and coaching others to their highest potential — while having fun in the process!
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As creative beings, we've likely experienced everything that you've struggled with in your own writing practice — and we're excited to create this retreat to help you gain confidence, inspiration and movement forward with your writing!
We've authored countless publications, plays and screenplays, poetry, lyrics, and content for various transformational workshops. Recently, Eli wrote and performed a mostly one-man musical called Out of The Blue, and Joseph released #1 new releases including the historical fiction novel Jeremiah, Rest, The Art of Doing Less and the poetry collection word after word.
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They're partners in business and life for 25+ years, and co-founders of San Miguel Retreats, The Improv People, and Out of The Blues Productions.
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What to bring​
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an open heart
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a thirsty journal
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a current passport (not expiring at least 6 months prior to travel)
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bathing suit and beach towel for the hot springs
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comfortable clothing, including a sun hat
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good walking shoes (cobblestones can be slippery)
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reusable water bottle
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yoga mat
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musical instruments for 'round the campfire
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a retreat buddy if you'd like to share the experience with someone
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any of your published books that you would like to sell or share during the Open Mic
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any gently used books that you'd care to donate to the free book exchange table
What not to bring​
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family members that might be demanding of your time and attention
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high heels (really)
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drugs/cigarettes (the property is non-smoking)
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perfumes/scented lotions (some folks are sensitive to fragrances. You smell divine just as you are!)
Pricing
The Wondrous Writers' Retreat regular price is $1397 USD.
Discounted pricing ($1197 USD) available to the first 4 people who register!
If there's any part of you feeling called to join us, save your spot by clicking below.
Your Wondrous Writer's Retreat Schedule
(subject to change)
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Tuesday - Arrivals. Join us for our hosted welcome dinner in town. A lovely chance to create connections with each other, receive your printed itinerary, and answer your questions about the week's adventures. ​
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Wednesday - Wondrous Writing in Nature at the stunning local botanical gardens. Entrance fees, transportation and breakfast at Charco del Ingenio included.
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Later, evening guided writing practice under the stars at Casa de la Paz. Healthy snacks and beverages provided.​​
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Thursday - Wondrous Cleansing Ritual and writing practice at La Gruta Hot Springs. Transportation, entrance to the hot springs and lunch at the hot springs included.
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Later, Presentation Skills / Improv Class - a chance to "get on your feet" and explore stage presence for live readings, let go or manage stage-fright, tips on how to engage with your audience, and have FUN in the process!
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Friday - Field trip for a guided tour of our local library (the heart of San Miguel!) Writing practice in the reading rooms after. Lunch included at Cafe Santa Ana, inside the library.
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Later, Open Mic with an invited audience. After, you'll have the opportunity to sell your published books at the cafe. Dinner on your own.
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Saturday - Free Time during the morning and afternoon. We recommend a visit to the local farmer's market. You may wish to shop for your personal amulet for the following evening's ceremony. This is the perfect time to schedule massages, or private coaching sessions.
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Later, join us for an inspiring Business of Books (BOB) coaching circle. Bring your Wondrous Wins, your marketing challenges, and your ideas for moving your work into the world. Community dinner on site.
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Sunday - Private writing with your Self. For those of us who struggle with distations, and allow the myriad of obligations to interfere with our writing practice (until now), this is your time to dive deeply into what matters: your wondrous writing. Find a private spot at a coffee shop, chapel, the plaza (el jardin) or the garden at your airbnb.
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Later, Evening Campfire, a memorable, casual evening of sharing stories, songs and music, combined with the ever-popular Wedded to My Wondrous Writer ritual. A powerful time to call forth your wishes, plans and intentions for your writing — and your Self. Healthy snacks and beverages provided.
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Monday - ​​Departures. You'll leave with your heart fully open, your smiles wide, journal pages filled with yumminess, and new friendships blooming...
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La Gruta Hot Springs, San Miguel de Allende
Accommodation Options
For those wishing to stay on-site with us at Casa de la Paz, we have three charming and delightful spaces: The Casita and The Suite.
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The Casita is a detached structure, with an outdoor dining area. Slightly smaller than The Suite, yet a bit more private.
The rate is $89 usd/night, single or double occupancy (and a one time $39 cleaning fee.)
The Sweet Suite is slightly larger, located on a gorgeous shared terrace near the Zen Garden, with incredible views.
The rate is $99 usd/night, single or double occupancy (and a one time $39 cleaning fee.)
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And for a truly unique experience, the Artist's Loft is available for one person... a creative, healing space in the art studio! Queen bed, bath, kitchen and access to the upstairs terrace. The rate is $79 usd/night, single occupancy (and a one time $39 cleaning fee.)
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Otherwise, there is a very affordable B&B very nearby called Casa Goyri (we're not affiliated and receive no commission - just a suggestion.) Or we recommend Airbnb.
*If you have questions about areas, or specific places, we're happy to offer our opinion.
The Charming Casita
The Sweet Suite
FAQ's
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What is the application process? The process is super simple: You will be asked to complete an online application, followed by an interview on zoom. You will not need to submit a writing sample. The application process is simply a chance to get to know each other. Because the retreat is designed to be small and intimate, we want to ensure the group synergy is cohesive to connection and creativity. ​
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​What if I'm not a writer, or I've only just started writing? You're welcome to show up with all the wondrous writer parts of you — the curious, the shy, the beginner, the uncertain, the more experienced. All parts of you are welcome here.
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What is the retreat all about? This retreat invites you to dive deeper into your writing practice — to welcome in the muses and create space for joy, ease and bravery in your writing! We'll be using the work of celebrated writers and teachers Judy Reeves, SARK, Natalie Goldberg, Elizabeth Gilbert, and Steven Pressfield, as well as your own inner guidance, and our coaching, to inspire your writing and keep your hand moving across the page.
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Can I bring a friend or a family member? Yes! We encourage you to bring someone, but only if they too will be participating in the retreat. If they aren't, they might distract from your focus for being here: writing and connecting with other writers.
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Which airport do I fly to? Leon (BJX) and Queretaro (QRO) are each about 1.5 hours from San Miguel. México City airport (MEX) is 4 hours away.
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How do I get to the retreat from the airport? We recommend a shared shuttle with BajioGo.com or any shuttle service you choose. There are no buses from the airport to San Miguel.
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Where can I stay? We have three onsite accommodations. You can also stay at any number of the airbnbs or hotels in town. Casa Goyri is a 5 min walk from the retreat, and seems quite affordable. The Hotel Real de Minas is about 1.5 miles away and is a popular hotel chain. Please know that we've never stayed at either place, and have no affiliation with them.
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What are the dates and times again? We'll be gathering Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 7 pm for our first communiity dinner in town. The retreat ends on the morning of Monday, October 12th. Of course, you may want to extend your trip and enjoy all that San Miguel has to offer...
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How much does the retreat cost? The entire retreat is $1,397 USD, with a discounted price ($1197 USD) to the first four people who register. Your investment includes all activities: writing adventures to the hot springs, botanical gardens, the local library, presentation and improv workshop, soul-full writing salon, storytelling 'round the campfire, the soul-full 'wedded to my wondrous writer' ceremony, guided writing practices, three community meals and healthy snacks.
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How many people will there be? The retreat is open to the first 10 people who sign up.
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What if I sign up and then have to cancel? We are aware you might have some concerns about travel during the Covid pandemic. We are taking all the precautions necessary. Also, sometimes things happen and you might have a change of plans. In case any of that happens, please read our cancellation policy right here.
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Anything else I need to know? San Miguel is considered high desert (6,200 feet) so you may wish to arrive a few days early to adjust to the altitude. While you're here drink plenty of water and less alcohol than you might normally. Also, where it says 'transportation included' it means to and from Casa de la Paz. You'll be responsible for getting to the property (if you're not staying on-site) and together we'll catch the shuttles/taxis from here.
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Thank You!
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We're looking forward to sharing this inspiring and transformative experience with you! If you have any questions that weren't answered above, please feel free to email us.
To your highest! Eli and Joseph
