Travel Dates & Details
What are the Travel Dates?
December 26th, 2023 - January 2nd, 2024
(Optional: Dec 25 - Jan 3rd)
What airport should I fly into?
Arrive anytime BEFORE 12PM on Dec 26, 2023 at San Jose Airport
Depart anytime AFTER 6pm on Tuesday January 2nd, 2024 from San Jose Airport.
***NOTE: If you would like a more relaxed trip, we recommend arriving a day early (Dec 25) and flying out a day later (Jan 3), booking a hotel room in a nearby San Jose Airport Hotel.
IMPORTANT: If you do not have a return ticket in you will not be allowed to enter Costa Rica.
We provide all ground transportation to and from our Pavones retreat site.
*If you want/need to fly in/out on different dates/times, you are fully responsible for your transportation & accommodations before/after the retreat dates. However, are happy to help you find information to book your ground transportation.
If you have any questions or concerns, email us balancedguitar@gmail.com or call our director, Ben at 646-295-5907
How will we get to Pavones from the SJO airport?
The group will meet in the baggage claim area and a complimentary shuttle will pick us up and take us on a beautiful 6hour scenic drive down the Pacific Coast to Pavones. We will stop along the way for meals and of course bathroom breaks. Cell phones should work once you land in Costa Rica and wifi is available both in the airport and at most cafes and restaurants.
December 26th, 2023 - January 2nd, 2024
(Optional: Dec 25 - Jan 3rd)
What airport should I fly into?
Arrive anytime BEFORE 12PM on Dec 26, 2023 at San Jose Airport
Depart anytime AFTER 6pm on Tuesday January 2nd, 2024 from San Jose Airport.
***NOTE: If you would like a more relaxed trip, we recommend arriving a day early (Dec 25) and flying out a day later (Jan 3), booking a hotel room in a nearby San Jose Airport Hotel.
IMPORTANT: If you do not have a return ticket in you will not be allowed to enter Costa Rica.
We provide all ground transportation to and from our Pavones retreat site.
*If you want/need to fly in/out on different dates/times, you are fully responsible for your transportation & accommodations before/after the retreat dates. However, are happy to help you find information to book your ground transportation.
If you have any questions or concerns, email us balancedguitar@gmail.com or call our director, Ben at 646-295-5907
How will we get to Pavones from the SJO airport?
The group will meet in the baggage claim area and a complimentary shuttle will pick us up and take us on a beautiful 6hour scenic drive down the Pacific Coast to Pavones. We will stop along the way for meals and of course bathroom breaks. Cell phones should work once you land in Costa Rica and wifi is available both in the airport and at most cafes and restaurants.
What are the fees, tuition, and payment methods?
The total price of the trip ranges from $2800 - 3500 depending on rooms / availability.
$2800 is for a twin bed in our dorm style room - 4 people total (with a/c)
$3300 is for a double bed in a shared room with 1 other person (with a/c)
$3500 is for a queen bed in our private room (with a/c) This room is also great for couples (2500 each)
The price is all inclusive except for airfare to/from Liberia, Costa Rica.
You can see more by checking out our ACCOMMODATIONS page.
The deposit to guarantee your spot is only $750. You can make your deposit or pay in full via PayPay by clicking here *Once on PayPal's site, sign in or create a free account (takes 1 min). When prompted to select "Friends & Family" or "Goods & Services," be sure to SELECT "FRIENDS & FAMILY" to AVOID ANY FEES. All deposits are non-refundable.
After you make your deposit, be sure to fill out the registration form.
The price includes transportation to/from the airport, lodging (single & shared rooms available), 2 delicious meals a day, prepared on site, free use of surfboards, daily guitar, surfing and yoga classes. BONUS: You will also receive one private lesson with Richard Miller before and after the trip (either in person or via Skype).
$2800 is for a twin bed in our dorm style room - 4 people total (with a/c)
$3300 is for a double bed in a shared room with 1 other person (with a/c)
$3500 is for a queen bed in our private room (with a/c) This room is also great for couples (2500 each)
The price is all inclusive except for airfare to/from Liberia, Costa Rica.
You can see more by checking out our ACCOMMODATIONS page.
The deposit to guarantee your spot is only $750. You can make your deposit or pay in full via PayPay by clicking here *Once on PayPal's site, sign in or create a free account (takes 1 min). When prompted to select "Friends & Family" or "Goods & Services," be sure to SELECT "FRIENDS & FAMILY" to AVOID ANY FEES. All deposits are non-refundable.
After you make your deposit, be sure to fill out the registration form.
The price includes transportation to/from the airport, lodging (single & shared rooms available), 2 delicious meals a day, prepared on site, free use of surfboards, daily guitar, surfing and yoga classes. BONUS: You will also receive one private lesson with Richard Miller before and after the trip (either in person or via Skype).
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be made 90 days before the retreat (September 26th, 2023). The deposit is non-refundable. Spots and housing are first come first serve. Space is limited.
What do I bring?
Checklist:
- Valid Passport*
- Round Trip Plane Ticket to SJO (NOTE: return flight must be booked in order to enter the country)
- Sunblock (Eco & Reef-Friendly please)
- Swim suit (or 2)
- Guitar (if you want to play)
- Yoga mat
- Bug Spray
- Long sleeve shirt (rash guard) for surfing
Expectations of the Program
To get the maximum benefits from the program, it is suggested that you participate fully in the program. Many musicians feel like they are not "athletic" or "coordinated" enough to participate in programs like surfing or yoga. Some beginners feel like they're "not talented" or "skilled" enough to participate as a group. NOT TRUE! One of the aims of this course is to show that these activities can be fun and accessible to everyone.
If you don't know how to swim, we recommend you take swimming lessons before arriving simply to feel more comfortable in the water. The surfing lessons take place in shallow water where swimming is not required. If it turns out that you dislike one of the activities, that's okay too! There are so many wonderful things to do there (including relaxing). You know your body best.
If you don't know how to swim, we recommend you take swimming lessons before arriving simply to feel more comfortable in the water. The surfing lessons take place in shallow water where swimming is not required. If it turns out that you dislike one of the activities, that's okay too! There are so many wonderful things to do there (including relaxing). You know your body best.
Schedule
All activities encourage but optional
8am Yoga
9:00am Breakfast Time
10:00am-12:00 Guitar/Music group class
12:30pm Lunch (provided)
1:30-4pm Free time, Siesta, Massage Sign-ups, Guitar Practice / Private Lessons
4-6pm - Sunset Surfing
7pm Dinner
8-10 pm Open evening jamming / Wind down
10pm - 8am Quiet Hours (sleep is key)
8am Yoga
9:00am Breakfast Time
10:00am-12:00 Guitar/Music group class
12:30pm Lunch (provided)
1:30-4pm Free time, Siesta, Massage Sign-ups, Guitar Practice / Private Lessons
4-6pm - Sunset Surfing
7pm Dinner
8-10 pm Open evening jamming / Wind down
10pm - 8am Quiet Hours (sleep is key)
Extras/Activities
There's 2 optional day trips including:
1. 1/2 day boat tour and snorkeling adventure ($80pp) where we'll visit the gorgeous cliffs, oceanic life, swim with the turtles and finish with a farm to table lunch in the beautiful home of the guide
2. We'll take a 1/2 day trip to the world longest Zipline over the jungles of Costa Rica. $75 Includes guides, harness, safety lesson, water and transportation. It's very safe, very fun, and unforgettable.
1. 1/2 day boat tour and snorkeling adventure ($80pp) where we'll visit the gorgeous cliffs, oceanic life, swim with the turtles and finish with a farm to table lunch in the beautiful home of the guide
2. We'll take a 1/2 day trip to the world longest Zipline over the jungles of Costa Rica. $75 Includes guides, harness, safety lesson, water and transportation. It's very safe, very fun, and unforgettable.
Sounds great. Where do I sign up?!
To sign up, just email us balancedguitar@gmail.com & we will follow up as soon as possible to connect and discuss details for payment, confirm availability, and introduce ourselves. A 50% deposit is requested via Paypal or Venmo to hold your space. We also accept credit cards (4% fee). Space is limited so call or email us today to reserve your spot! Invoice for the final balance will be sent 30 days before the retreat begins. For any questions, please reach out to balancedguitar@gmail.com or call Ben 646-295-5907. Thank you!
To sign up, just email us balancedguitar@gmail.com & we will follow up as soon as possible to connect and discuss details for payment, confirm availability, and introduce ourselves. A 50% deposit is requested via Paypal or Venmo to hold your space. We also accept credit cards (4% fee). Space is limited so call or email us today to reserve your spot! Invoice for the final balance will be sent 30 days before the retreat begins. For any questions, please reach out to balancedguitar@gmail.com or call Ben 646-295-5907. Thank you!
More FAQs
Is their WIFI?
Yes, the house has complimentary moderate speed WIFI as does most of the cafes and restaurants in town.
Is there a pool on site?
Yes!
What is the currency in Costa Rica?
The currency in Costa Rica is the colón (plural: colones). The exchange rate is . However most places also take US Dollars and credit cards. You'll most likely receive change in colones. There is an ATM in the airport, but there is only 1 bank in Nosara so it is strongly recommended that you bring cash with you from the states and/or get cash out at the ATM in the airport. There is a safe in the house to keep valuables.
Electricity outlets
All electrical outlets are the same as those used in the U.S.
Are there ATMs in Pavones?
Yes there are 2 ATMs in town and 1 bank 10min outside of town. Many businesses accept dollars as well as Debit/Credit cards. HOWEVER, AMERICAN EXPRESS IS NOT ACCEPTED IN MOST OF COSTA RICA.
Do you supply shampoo and soap?
We do not. You can bring your own or buy some in town.
Are there restaurants or stores nearby?
Yes, Pavones has several delicious restaurants and mini marts, within walking distance, where you can eat out or buy groceries to make your own food (breakfast) at the house.
What are the safety features of the property?
It is a very safe and small community. Everyone knows everyone and the family who owns the property checks on it daily and lives across the street. There’s even a safe on site to store valuables in the house. However, we don’t recommend bringing an unnecessary valuables to Costa Rica, as petty theft does exist.
Is the water drinkable?
Yes there is a top of the line filtered water system at the house. You can safely bathe and brush your teeth with the tap water, and we drink the tap water safely. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are nervous, you can buy bottled water from any local vendor.
How much do you tip in Costa Rica?
10-15% is the norm for restaurants, hotels and bars. You don’t need to tip taxi and tuk tuk drivers, but be sure to agree your price with the driver up front.
Yes, the house has complimentary moderate speed WIFI as does most of the cafes and restaurants in town.
Is there a pool on site?
Yes!
What is the currency in Costa Rica?
The currency in Costa Rica is the colón (plural: colones). The exchange rate is . However most places also take US Dollars and credit cards. You'll most likely receive change in colones. There is an ATM in the airport, but there is only 1 bank in Nosara so it is strongly recommended that you bring cash with you from the states and/or get cash out at the ATM in the airport. There is a safe in the house to keep valuables.
Electricity outlets
All electrical outlets are the same as those used in the U.S.
Are there ATMs in Pavones?
Yes there are 2 ATMs in town and 1 bank 10min outside of town. Many businesses accept dollars as well as Debit/Credit cards. HOWEVER, AMERICAN EXPRESS IS NOT ACCEPTED IN MOST OF COSTA RICA.
Do you supply shampoo and soap?
We do not. You can bring your own or buy some in town.
Are there restaurants or stores nearby?
Yes, Pavones has several delicious restaurants and mini marts, within walking distance, where you can eat out or buy groceries to make your own food (breakfast) at the house.
What are the safety features of the property?
It is a very safe and small community. Everyone knows everyone and the family who owns the property checks on it daily and lives across the street. There’s even a safe on site to store valuables in the house. However, we don’t recommend bringing an unnecessary valuables to Costa Rica, as petty theft does exist.
Is the water drinkable?
Yes there is a top of the line filtered water system at the house. You can safely bathe and brush your teeth with the tap water, and we drink the tap water safely. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are nervous, you can buy bottled water from any local vendor.
How much do you tip in Costa Rica?
10-15% is the norm for restaurants, hotels and bars. You don’t need to tip taxi and tuk tuk drivers, but be sure to agree your price with the driver up front.
COVID Policies 2022-23
We are making every effort to ensure the safety of the group during our trip. Please read these carefully and practice your own mindfulness around COVID before and during the trip.
• All participants must be fully vaccinated
• Participants should practice social distancing and masking as recommended by the CDC
• All US citizens must have proof of a negative COVID test result within 48hrs of arrival back to US Territory. COVID tests will be provided by staff. You’re welcome to bring your own
• While in Costa Rica, we also ask that all participants practice mindfulness when in public space and meeting new people. Absolutely no guests are allowed onto the retreat property
• All participants must be fully vaccinated
• Participants should practice social distancing and masking as recommended by the CDC
• All US citizens must have proof of a negative COVID test result within 48hrs of arrival back to US Territory. COVID tests will be provided by staff. You’re welcome to bring your own
• While in Costa Rica, we also ask that all participants practice mindfulness when in public space and meeting new people. Absolutely no guests are allowed onto the retreat property
Answers to most questions about Playa Guiones in Nosara can be found on their website
Pavones services and facilities
https://www.costarica.com/destinations/pavones/services-facilities
PAVONES SERVICES & FACILITIESThe Supermarket Rio Claro sells basic food items, personal supplies, household items and gas for cooking. There are several other mini-grocery stores in the town of Pavones and the surrounding area.
PHONESGSM cell phone service is intermittent. Along the beach at various points and up high, GSM cell phone signals may be found. TDMA service is more widely available.
INTERNETThere are two nice Internet cafes in town.
BANKSThere are no banks or ATMs in the Pavones area. The closest towns offering these services are Rio Claro and Golfito.
GAS STATIONSThere are no gas stations in the area, but the hardware store sells small amounts of gas for $5+ a gallon. Better to fill up in the city of Rio Claro along Route 2 before heading south to Pavones.
MEDICAL CLINICSIn the town of Pavones, there are two resident American doctors and an EMT open for emergencies 24 hours a day. The Castillo de Pavones offers its Toyota Tacoma truck in emergency situations if visitors need to depart immediately for the hospital. The closest hospitals are in Golfito (2 hours by car) and in Ciudad Nelly (1 hour 10 minutes). There is a clinic in Conte open daily for minor injuries.
PAVONES SERVICES & FACILITIESThe Supermarket Rio Claro sells basic food items, personal supplies, household items and gas for cooking. There are several other mini-grocery stores in the town of Pavones and the surrounding area.
PHONESGSM cell phone service is intermittent. Along the beach at various points and up high, GSM cell phone signals may be found. TDMA service is more widely available.
INTERNETThere are two nice Internet cafes in town.
BANKSThere are no banks or ATMs in the Pavones area. The closest towns offering these services are Rio Claro and Golfito.
GAS STATIONSThere are no gas stations in the area, but the hardware store sells small amounts of gas for $5+ a gallon. Better to fill up in the city of Rio Claro along Route 2 before heading south to Pavones.
MEDICAL CLINICSIn the town of Pavones, there are two resident American doctors and an EMT open for emergencies 24 hours a day. The Castillo de Pavones offers its Toyota Tacoma truck in emergency situations if visitors need to depart immediately for the hospital. The closest hospitals are in Golfito (2 hours by car) and in Ciudad Nelly (1 hour 10 minutes). There is a clinic in Conte open daily for minor injuries.