Frequently Asked Questions
I'm not artistic/not an artist. Is this retreat for me?
Absolutely! All of our workshops and activities are for beginners and experienced artists alike!! We’ll provide you with creative prompts but you will be at your own pace and it’s completely up to you how you’d like to use your art journal and creative time.
Can I bring my child/teen?
YES!! We love kids! It's also a wonderful way to bond stress-free while having someone else organize your days. Those who are 11 and up are generally best suited for this trip as it involves art, culture, and fine dining. There is just $500 fee per child for the retreat and a requirement to book a single room. Kids are not charged the per person rate.
What are the visa requirements?
It is your responsibility to be up to date on what the visa requirements are for entering the country as well as whether you are required to be vaccinated/Covid Testing etc. Most countries require either proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test prior to entering.
Are there payment plans?
Yes! Upon receipt of your $1000 non-refundable deposit, you may divide your remaining total into separate payments. The total balance is due on or before May 1st, 2023.
What's included in the retreat cost?
Each of our retreats is unique, to find out what is included on a specific Retreat, please see the itinerary for that particular Retreat. All of our Retreats include lodging, breakfast, art workshop(s) and a welcome and departure dinner. At every retreat, you’ll also receive a gift bag full of local finds celebrating the country we’re visiting!
What's not included in the retreat cost?
Airfare from your hometown to the destination. Meals & drinks purchased beyond those provided in your Retreat package. Any alcohol or personal shopping you choose to purchase, as well as any travel before or after the Retreat dates. See more information on the page for retreats that you are interested in, to find out exactly what is included on your Retreat.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is required in order for you to attend the retreat. A ” cancel for any reason” policy is preferred. Trust us, it’s worth it! Stumped on what policy to choose? Reach out to our travel concierge, we are happy to assist!
Do I have to share a room?
No, private rooms are available for an additional $1500. In the event you are traveling solo and book a shared room we will do our best to pair you up with someone we think you’ll match well with!
I have dietary restrictions.
Part of experiencing a new culture is through its food so the meals we offer vary by location. While we do strive to have vegetarian or gluten free options at most of our meals we are not able to accommodate severely limited, highly specific, and restricted diets. We try to let the country speak to us through its food, with lots of recommendations from the local community.
What airport do I fly into?**
Fly into BJX (León Del Bajio) and then there is about an hour drive to town
**American Airlines flight number 2190 has a direct from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) at 6:50 pm
(2h 25m of flight time). Arriving at León Del Bajio (BJX) at 8:15 pm
What will the weather be like?
The average temperature in San Miguel de Allende in November for a typical day ranges from a high of 74°F (23°C) to a low of 47°F (8°C). Some would describe it as moderately chilly with a gentle breeze.
Packing Tips?
Mexico is best explored on foot. There will be lots of cobblestone streets so opt for comfortable shoes, sneakers or sandals. For our day trips, we’ll be most the day outdoors. Plan outfits that will work for exploring but will also be nice enough for a relaxed dinner. Layers are always a great idea!
Is there anything special I need to bring?
We’ll send a list of art supplies such as your favorite brushes, art journal and watercolor set! We’ll also include a simple packing list and tips a couple months before the retreat.
We also recommend that you bring an extra bag (a collapsible duffel or tote works great) to bring home your goodies you have collected on our shopping trips. Mexico is known for its artisan and antique markets, so trust us you’ll want the extra room to take back your one-of-a-kind finds! The temperatures will vary, so don’t forget layers, pack a bathing suit, sweater and a light jacket!
For Dia De Los Muertos bring a colorful outfit to wear ( See photos below).
You can always shop when you get here too!
Do you accept cancellations? What if I get covid?
Hey, we get it, stuff happens! Unfortunately due to the planning, involved logistics, and upfront costs of these events we have a strict no refund policy regardless of circumstance. This includes if you yourself contract covid before the retreat and cannot attend. For this reason and many others, we are now requiring travel insurance.
It’s a small amount to pay to ensure you’re covered and is worth the peace of mind alone! In all circumstances, we will retain your non-refundable booking deposit, and any additional funds paid towards your balance. Again, we strongly urge you to buy travel insurance, research as much as you can about the location to which you wish to travel and to be sure you can make it before you book.
Cancellation policy:All individual cancellations must be made in writing and are effective upon receipt. If you cancel within 90 days of a trip or workshop, there is no refund of any kind.
Options if you cancel before the 90 days:
Absolutely! All of our workshops and activities are for beginners and experienced artists alike!! We’ll provide you with creative prompts but you will be at your own pace and it’s completely up to you how you’d like to use your art journal and creative time.
Can I bring my child/teen?
YES!! We love kids! It's also a wonderful way to bond stress-free while having someone else organize your days. Those who are 11 and up are generally best suited for this trip as it involves art, culture, and fine dining. There is just $500 fee per child for the retreat and a requirement to book a single room. Kids are not charged the per person rate.
What are the visa requirements?
It is your responsibility to be up to date on what the visa requirements are for entering the country as well as whether you are required to be vaccinated/Covid Testing etc. Most countries require either proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test prior to entering.
Are there payment plans?
Yes! Upon receipt of your $1000 non-refundable deposit, you may divide your remaining total into separate payments. The total balance is due on or before May 1st, 2023.
What's included in the retreat cost?
Each of our retreats is unique, to find out what is included on a specific Retreat, please see the itinerary for that particular Retreat. All of our Retreats include lodging, breakfast, art workshop(s) and a welcome and departure dinner. At every retreat, you’ll also receive a gift bag full of local finds celebrating the country we’re visiting!
What's not included in the retreat cost?
Airfare from your hometown to the destination. Meals & drinks purchased beyond those provided in your Retreat package. Any alcohol or personal shopping you choose to purchase, as well as any travel before or after the Retreat dates. See more information on the page for retreats that you are interested in, to find out exactly what is included on your Retreat.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is required in order for you to attend the retreat. A ” cancel for any reason” policy is preferred. Trust us, it’s worth it! Stumped on what policy to choose? Reach out to our travel concierge, we are happy to assist!
Do I have to share a room?
No, private rooms are available for an additional $1500. In the event you are traveling solo and book a shared room we will do our best to pair you up with someone we think you’ll match well with!
I have dietary restrictions.
Part of experiencing a new culture is through its food so the meals we offer vary by location. While we do strive to have vegetarian or gluten free options at most of our meals we are not able to accommodate severely limited, highly specific, and restricted diets. We try to let the country speak to us through its food, with lots of recommendations from the local community.
What airport do I fly into?**
Fly into BJX (León Del Bajio) and then there is about an hour drive to town
**American Airlines flight number 2190 has a direct from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) at 6:50 pm
(2h 25m of flight time). Arriving at León Del Bajio (BJX) at 8:15 pm
What will the weather be like?
The average temperature in San Miguel de Allende in November for a typical day ranges from a high of 74°F (23°C) to a low of 47°F (8°C). Some would describe it as moderately chilly with a gentle breeze.
Packing Tips?
Mexico is best explored on foot. There will be lots of cobblestone streets so opt for comfortable shoes, sneakers or sandals. For our day trips, we’ll be most the day outdoors. Plan outfits that will work for exploring but will also be nice enough for a relaxed dinner. Layers are always a great idea!
Is there anything special I need to bring?
We’ll send a list of art supplies such as your favorite brushes, art journal and watercolor set! We’ll also include a simple packing list and tips a couple months before the retreat.
We also recommend that you bring an extra bag (a collapsible duffel or tote works great) to bring home your goodies you have collected on our shopping trips. Mexico is known for its artisan and antique markets, so trust us you’ll want the extra room to take back your one-of-a-kind finds! The temperatures will vary, so don’t forget layers, pack a bathing suit, sweater and a light jacket!
For Dia De Los Muertos bring a colorful outfit to wear ( See photos below).
You can always shop when you get here too!
Do you accept cancellations? What if I get covid?
Hey, we get it, stuff happens! Unfortunately due to the planning, involved logistics, and upfront costs of these events we have a strict no refund policy regardless of circumstance. This includes if you yourself contract covid before the retreat and cannot attend. For this reason and many others, we are now requiring travel insurance.
It’s a small amount to pay to ensure you’re covered and is worth the peace of mind alone! In all circumstances, we will retain your non-refundable booking deposit, and any additional funds paid towards your balance. Again, we strongly urge you to buy travel insurance, research as much as you can about the location to which you wish to travel and to be sure you can make it before you book.
Cancellation policy:All individual cancellations must be made in writing and are effective upon receipt. If you cancel within 90 days of a trip or workshop, there is no refund of any kind.
Options if you cancel before the 90 days:
- If there is a waiting list of students that has formed, we will put you in contact with the first person on the list to whom you can offer your class spot. If the person on the list accepts, then that person will need to pay you for your spot and once that transaction is completed and both parties are satisfied, we will transfer your spot to the other person. If there is no waiting list, you lose your deposit or your fee if you have paid the total for that workshop.
- The second option is to transfer your fees to another ArtVida trip within 12 months minus a $100 administration fee.
- If neither of these options are available to you, there will be no refund. There are no exceptions to this policy. Deposits and arrangements are made in advance of the trip.
