Wondrous Writers' Retreat
October 6-12, 2026
Escape to magical San Miguel de Allende to pamper your creative self!
Enjoy focused time to write, receive inspired coaching and support, 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
Why This? Why Now?
This retreat was created as a special invitation to step away from the distractions — to immerse yourself in beauty, meaningful conversation, deep creative practice, and the restorative magic of San Miguel de Allende.
Whether you're beginning to write again, longing to reconnect with your voice, or standing at an entirely new chapter in your life wanting to deepen your writing practice, we trust this week will become a turning point in your creative journey.
As fellow creatives, we know how easy it is to lose touch with our creative selves amidst the noise, obligations, and distractions of daily life.
That's why we're honored and excited to share this literary sanctuary with you!
Who Is This Retreat For?
This sacred, fun and delightful adventure is for those who might be:
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Exploring writing for the first time
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In the middle of a project or just getting started
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Starting to write again after a long hiatus
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Published or unpublished authors
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Stuck or overflowing with ideas...
Wherever you are on your writing journey, this retreat offers
sacred space to reconnect with your authentic voice.
What's Included
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Morning Tai Chi or meditation practice to start the day feeling centered
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Several meals included: healthy catered feasts onsite, hosted community dinners at local rooftop restaurants, and healthy snacks + beverages to stay nourished.
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Wondrous writing adventures to the hot springs, botanical gardens, our fabulous local library and onsite at Casa de La Paz.
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Ground transportation to/from scheduled field trips.
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Guided writing prompts and time for sharing your work in a supportive community.
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Cleansing ritual at La Gruta hot springs to release our inner critic(s) and welcome in our muses.
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Wedded to My Wondrous Writer inspiring and inspired ceremony to commit to your practice
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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 to present part of your work 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 and to enjoy optional sessions with local practitioners (additional 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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And if you'd like some additional support:
Private, one-on-one coaching session with Joseph to gain clarity about your next steps, how to self-publish, improve work habits, and getting your work out into the world.
What's Not Included
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Airfare and ground transportation to/from the retreat.
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Traveler's insurance (recommended.)
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Accommodations and meals — aside from those included below.
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Transportation other than to above field trips.
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Optional wellness services and therapies.
Kind Words
"Eli and Joseph are two of the most profound people I know. Their depth of wisdom is beyond remarkable. If you have the fortune to attend one of their programs, I can say with 100% confidence that your life will change forever."
Debra Poneman, Yes to Success
"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 Greene,
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 Van,
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 Ditkoff,
President - Idea Champions, NY
Where and When?
The retreat takes place in San Miguel de Allende, México, at our restful property Casa de la Paz (House of Peace.)
San Miguel de Allende is a magical place that defies description, in the heart of México, voted the #1 City in the World several times since 2013.
Your retreat dates: October 6 -12, 2026.
* It is open to the first 10 people who register.
* There are 3 loving and adorable rescue dogs on the property as well—they're great at giving hugs. Or they can be kept separate, if your prefer.
Maya, Luna and Bailey
Charming curved stone entrance into
Casa de la Paz... The House of Peace.
Your Retreat Guides
Eli Hans and Joseph Bennett are multi-passionate retreat and workshop leaders, artists, writers, and life, theatre and creativity coaches. We have a shared passion of supporting others to their highest potential — while having a lot of fun in the process!
We have authored countless books, plays, screenplays, poetry, song lyrics, and content for various transformational workshops.
Eli is an award-winning playwright and performer of a mostly one-man musical, Out of The Blue, which garnered international acclaim.
Joseph has published seven books, including multiple #1 New Releases on Amazon, including the historical fiction novel Jeremiah, Rest, and the poetry collection word after word.
Eli and Joseph have been partners in business and life for over 25 years, and are co-founders various businesses, including San Miguel Retreats, The Improv People, and Out of The Blue Productions.
What you might wish to bring
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a thirsty journal
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curiosity, an open heart and your intention for our time together
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comfortable clothing for warm days and cool evenings
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good walking shoes for cobblestone streets
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bathing suit for Hot Springs
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a retreat buddy if you'd like to share the experience with someone
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a favorite piece of writing to share at the hosted Open Mic
What to leave behind
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stress, worry and sense of duty (being here will definitely help!)
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family members that might require your time and attention
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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 $2797 USD.
Save $500 with Early Registration!
$2297 USD
for the first 4 people who register.
Includes: Field trips to fantastic locations, ritual and writing practices, workshops, open mic experience, some meals and transportation, and a FABULOUS group of creatives in one of the most magical places on Earth.
This retreat is not about becoming a “better writer.”
It’s about becoming more fully awake to your creative self.
If any part of you is quietly (or not so quietly!) saying yes to joining us,
please apply for your spot below.
PLEASE READ OUR CANCELLATION POLICY:
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If we need to cancel for any reason, all tuition payments will be refunded in full.
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A non-refundable deposit of $1000 USD reserves your place.
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If you cancel 60 days or more before the retreat begins, any payments made beyond the initial deposit will be refunded.
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Cancellations made fewer than 60 days before the retreat are non-refundable (unless we or you are able to fill the canceled space)
La Gruta Hot Springs, the site of our wondrous cleansing ritual...
Your Wondrous Writer's Retreat Schedule
(Schedule subject to change. Beginning Wednesday, join us for daily tai chi and meditation to start your day.)
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Tuesday, Oct 6 - Arrivals. After you get settled in, join us for your 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, Oct 7 - Wondrous Writing in Nature at the stunning local botanical gardens. Entrance fees and transportation to Charco del Ingenio included. Tai Chi and catered breakfast onsite before we leave for the gardens.
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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, Oct 8 - Wondrous Cleansing Ritual at La Gruta Hot Springs followed by writing session. Transportation and entrance to the hot springs included. Tai Chi and catered breakfast onsite before we leave for the hot springs.
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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. Free afternoon to explore the Artisan's market and galleries.
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Later, join us for an inspiring group Success of Writing (SOW) coaching circle. Bring your Wondrous Wins, your marketing challenges, where you're getting stuck, what's working... and your ideas for moving your work into the world. Community dinner on site after.
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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. The perfect time to schedule massages, quiet time or private coaching sessions.
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Later, Open Mic with an invited audience at Café Rama. You'll have the opportunity to sell your published books. Dinner on your own.
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Sunday - Private writing with your Muse. For those who struggle with distractions, and have allowed the myriad of obligations to interfere with your 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 hotel.
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Later, Evening Campfire, a memorable 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. Snacks and beverages provided.
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Monday - Departures (unless you're choosing to extend your stay). You'll leave with your heart open, your smile wide, journal pages filled with yumminess, and new friendships blooming... ! Light breakfast included before your departure.
The magical Zen garden at Casa de la Paz...
Accommodation Options
For those wishing to stay on-site with us at Casa de la Paz, we have three charming and delightful spaces: The Charming Casita, The Sweet Suite and The Artist's Loft.
The Charming Casita is a detached structure, with an outdoor dining area surrounded by lush landscape. Slightly smaller than the Suite, yet a bit more private.
The rate is $89 usd/night (plus a one time $39 cleaning fee) single or double occupancy, with a canopied King bed and ensuite bathroom with shower.
The Sweet Suite is slightly larger, located on a gorgeous shared terrace near the Zen Garden, with incredible sunset views.
The rate is $99 usd/night (plus a one time $39 cleaning fee) single or double occupancy, with a canopied King bed and ensuite bathroom with shower and sunken tub.
And for a truly unique experience, the Artist's Loft is available for single occupancy... a creative, healing space in the loft of the art studio!
The rate is $79 usd/night (and a one time $39 cleaning fee) with a queen bed, ensuite bathroom with shower (a bit bohemian), full kitchen and access to the upstairs terrace.
Special Note: Casa de La Paz is designed with various levels, which means there are stairs with handrails throughout. Something to keep in mind for those with mobility concerns.
For accommodations nearby...
There's a simple and very affordable B&B called Casa Goyri, a 5-minute walk. The Hotel Bonito is a 13-minute walk from our property, closer to centro and Juarez park.
Please know that we've not been a guest at either place, and have no affiliation with them.
We also recommend Airbnb to suit your particular needs and budget.
*If you have questions about areas, or specific places, we're happy to offer our opinion.
The Charming Casita
The Sweet Suite
The Artist's Loft
Healthy breakfasts for your retreat
Casa de La Paz
FAQ's
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What is the application process? It’s simple, and really meant as a first point of connection. Because this retreat is intentionally intimate (just 10 people), we're very conscious about gathering a group that feels aligned. Our hope is to create a space where everyone feels safe, seen, and inspired. To that end, you’ll be invited to fill out a short online application, followed by a Zoom conversation with us. There’s no need to submit a writing sample — we’re far more interested in you than in polished pages.
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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 your own inner guidance, combined with 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 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, so better leave them at home ;-)
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Which airport do I fly into? 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.
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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. Hotel Bonito is just over 1/2 mile away (.62 mi) and on the edge of the famed Parque Juarez. 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 these places, 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 community 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 $2,797 USD, with an early registration price ($2,297 USD) offered to the first four people who register.
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How many people will there be? The retreat is open to 10 people, plus the two of us. The last Wondrous Writers' Retreat sold out quickly, so if any part of you is saying yes! to this adventure, then schedule your Getting to Know You interview sooner than later!
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What if I sign up and then have to cancel? We are aware that sometimes things happen and you might have a change of plans. Please read our cancellation policy.
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Anything else I need to know? San Miguel has been voted the #1 city in the world multiple times, and is a World UNESCO site. It is high desert (6,200 feet) so if this is a concern, 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.
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.
And you're welcome to join our email list.
To your highest! Eli and Joseph
Wondrous Writers at the Botanical gardens... and you're next!