Personal Space in Paradise Retreat
Time and Space for whatever is calling you right now.
Costa Rica, Friday August 29- Friday Sep 5, 2025
I started this project to invite a few friends to join me on a vacation at our little slice of heaven. Then I thought how fun it would be to invite a larger circle of friends and family who haven't yet shared my love of this sacred, healing, grounding magical place. So I'm inviting up to 20 friends or future friends who fit!
This is for you if you are ready to spend a week in paradise with conscious seekers, healers, and beautiful souls, in need of time and space for yourself maybe just to reset and rewind. Maybe you need some space to plan our next great project, take time to write, plan the next chapter of life, or just luxuriate in the abundant energy nestled between the jungle and ocean.
We are not planning a lot of agenda items, but inviting whatever wants to emerge in the energy of the group and the space. Join us for a vacation or a working week - you decide. Join or start a mastermind circle, take reflection time, contemplate life, enjoy (or lead) sunrise meditations on the beach, join our sharing circles, healing fire ceremony, share your own gifts, games or stories. This magical week might be just a great vacation, or it might be the personal advancement retreat of your life so far!
This is for you if you are ready to spend a week in paradise with conscious seekers, healers, and beautiful souls, in need of time and space for yourself maybe just to reset and rewind. Maybe you need some space to plan our next great project, take time to write, plan the next chapter of life, or just luxuriate in the abundant energy nestled between the jungle and ocean.
We are not planning a lot of agenda items, but inviting whatever wants to emerge in the energy of the group and the space. Join us for a vacation or a working week - you decide. Join or start a mastermind circle, take reflection time, contemplate life, enjoy (or lead) sunrise meditations on the beach, join our sharing circles, healing fire ceremony, share your own gifts, games or stories. This magical week might be just a great vacation, or it might be the personal advancement retreat of your life so far!
Play, Relax, Learn, Grow & Connect in Paradise
As you gently glide from your first amazing night’s sleep, you awaken to the sounds of locals starting their day - local monkeys, that is, celebrating a new morning in the giant Guanacaste tree shading your casita.
You notice this is not another boring hotel. Perhaps your room has round or angled walls or looks directly out into the treetops or filters the morning light through stained glass windows.
You notice this is not another boring hotel. Perhaps your room has round or angled walls or looks directly out into the treetops or filters the morning light through stained glass windows.
You're almost reluctant to leave your casita, until a kaleidoscope of butterflies beckon from your window. As you meander the pathways through lush gardens… you feel the peace in your body, and know you are already different than you were. You revel in the lightness from the feelings of the arrival ceremony the night before.
You remember the feeling of laughter and hugs with your new friends. You can sense the excitement building for the special days ahead. This is a special place. These are special people. You are special. You find yourself arriving at breakfast, connecting with the other beautiful souls who might include your future lifelong friends. You're in the right place. You belong here.
You remember the feeling of laughter and hugs with your new friends. You can sense the excitement building for the special days ahead. This is a special place. These are special people. You are special. You find yourself arriving at breakfast, connecting with the other beautiful souls who might include your future lifelong friends. You're in the right place. You belong here.
What You Get
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During this ultra flexible, open and flowing retreat, you might redefine and raise the bar on all the buzzwords like transformational, and experiential, and connection, and healing, and deep, and breakthrough. Why? because we all know we have everything we need within us, and we usually don't give ourselves the time and space to go within and connect with what we know we need for ourselves. Give yourself the space you need whether it is alone time on the beach, sharing in circle or participating in silent observation of nature with a group. You may discover new heights in what's possible in extreme simplicity of non-agenda, unplanned, perfect experiences.
You are ready to go deeper than ever before, or just take some time and space to breathe - no judgement here. Just breath! Walk on the beach or float on the pool all day. Go into town and snack your way through the farmers market, or plan an activity you want to lead - if you're a coach or trainer, maybe try out a new activity you're working on. You might join or host a yoga class or workshop. See a pattern here? It's all up to you! I can promise we will have RIM Journeys in special settings based on weather, monkey visits and tides. I know we'll have fabulous food and unlimited laughter around the self-serve all-day smoothie bar. I can promise daily monkey visits, friendly Iguanas, butterflies, hummingbirds and grazing horses. |
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This is a different kind of vacation experience where you can plan your own adventure. Pure potential for whatever your intention... be it relaxing, deep, primal, subtle, nuanced, powerful, emotional, gentle, magical... You know deep down what you're seeking. |
The Venue
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Costa Rica is soulful, alive, vibrant and real, just like you! We love the Pura Vida attitude here and we love our jungle, our river, and our completely undeveloped beach, Playa Buena Vista. All easily found by our shuttle drivers, and perfectly hidden from traffic, tourists, and distractions.
Con Smania - a loose translation for Con Smania is "with a special passion that comes out of agitation". The retreat center is located on the west coast in the Nicoya peninsula of Costa Rica. It is one of 5 Blue Zones in the world where more people live past 100 years, and in a place where you would want to! Just a ten-minute stroll to the Pacific Ocean, nestled in the shade of giant Guanacaste trees filled with monkeys, your unique and artistically created oasis awaits. |
Welcome to a special place to nurture your mind, body, and soul. The perfect place to cultivate some magic for whatever is next for you in your business, life or contribution to the world.
Start by greeting our turtles (Julia and Stevie Gonzales) and rest your feet in the lobby pond if you want to be tickled by the minnows - a spa treatment in itself! Allow yourself to just BE.
Start by greeting our turtles (Julia and Stevie Gonzales) and rest your feet in the lobby pond if you want to be tickled by the minnows - a spa treatment in itself! Allow yourself to just BE.
Your room is as individual as your own thumbprint. Every special and unique part of you feels invited and welcomed as the unique shapes, colors, textures, scents and sounds of Con Smania.
Con Smania sleeps up to 30 guests, but we limit our retreat size to a max of 24 to relax completely in unique splendor. Spread throughout lush tropical gardens, each unique casita with a private bath, sleeps 2-4 guests. Some casitas have a single sleeping area with two XL twin beds. Some casitas have multiple sleeping areas with one or two beds in each area. Very limited single rooms available.
Con Smania sleeps up to 30 guests, but we limit our retreat size to a max of 24 to relax completely in unique splendor. Spread throughout lush tropical gardens, each unique casita with a private bath, sleeps 2-4 guests. Some casitas have a single sleeping area with two XL twin beds. Some casitas have multiple sleeping areas with one or two beds in each area. Very limited single rooms available.
Most beds are XL twins and are outfitted with new luxury mattresses and linens. All rooms are air conditioned and offer ceiling fans, tea kettles, safe drinking water, and a mini-frig.
Wander the garden paths and delight in this feast for the senses. We won’t tell you exactly where to find all the places to rest and ponder life… we believe you will magically come upon them right when needed.
Wander the garden paths and delight in this feast for the senses. We won’t tell you exactly where to find all the places to rest and ponder life… we believe you will magically come upon them right when needed.
Along the way, you'll find hammocks and loungers, chat spaces and meditation platforms. You won't be able to resist dipping your toes into the pool and connecting with your new soul brothers and sisters.
Meals Con Smania
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The name Con Smania means with passion and so does mealtime. Your senses come alive as you take in the brilliant colors, textures, tastes, and scents of simple and delightful homemade meals. Ingredients are farm to table, fresh and organic. Exotic fruits are grown on property and eggs come fresh from the farm next door.
You’ll bond with new friends as you explore consciously prepared meals inspired by the ingredients that make this one of the world’s five Blue Zones. |
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Can't eat this or that? Dietary restrictions are celebrated here. The bountiful buffets are very vegetarian friendly, plus fish. Your culinary adventure includes traditional homemade Costa Rican food and surprises to delight the adventurous foodie.
We believe in honoring the land through connecting closer to source in all ways. Buffet style, we encourage you to take what you need knowing you can always return for more. |
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Breakfast and the all-day self serve smoothie bar are included every day. The smoothie bar is a celebration of local fruit and greens and nutritious add-ins. Dinner will be included on arrival day, one other evening to be determined, and the last night. Other dinners can be added for extra cost (vegetarian $25 with fish $40), or be taken at the sweet little hotel next door, or in town, however do not expect to easily get transportation to town.
We do not serve alcohol. Guests may bring their own or enjoy the little pub next door. |
Itinerary
Friday Day 1 - Your Arrival at LIR (FLy into LIR, NOT SJO)
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Please do your best to arrive as close to noon as you can. (Most arrive from 12-2pm). We are hiring private shuttles to bring you from LIR airport, which is lonely and expensive if you're the only one arriving late in the day. Your retreat begins as soon as you clear customs. We take care of everything. Relax and connect with new friends on your scenic shuttle ride through the countryside enroute to the Con Smania Retreat Center, which is about 2-2.5 hours.
You may also decide to rent a car, and I'm happy to help coordinate others who might be arriving at a similar time to share. Upon arrival, settle in and explore the grounds or even take a dip or nap. We’ll bond over a group dinner and a special welcoming ceremony weather permitting, perhaps a fire or a sacred circle ceremony. |
Open and flexible days - Immersion into safe and sacred spaces to create your own perfect retreat experience.
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Don't set an alarm, the monkeys will tell you when it's time to get up. Coffee and tea will be available in the restaurant at about 5:30. Start with an early morning walk... the day is yours!
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Saturday Day 2 Market Day in Samara
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Start the day right however you like, will it be a walk to the beach? a little yoga? practice your monkey calls? Then after breakfast, we'll shuttle to the farmer's market in Samara, where locals and your host shop for groceries and unique artisan products. Or opt for free time or book a massage or other healing treatment.
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Tuesday Day 5 Farmers Market and visit to Nosara
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Nosara is a quaint little town with exclusive resorts and posh homes and more upscale shops and restaurants. After a light breakfast (saving room for this place I know with amazing croissants). Check out the farmers market, or stroll to another beautiful beach, pop into a yoga class at world-famous Bodhi Tree, lunch at one of Nosara's glorious restaurants, visit a wildlife refuge, take a scuba class... so many options!
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Friday Day 8 - Departure Day
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It's just so long for now...
Departures as scheduled, with breakfast to go if you need it. We'll schedule your departures so you'll have plenty of time to gently make it to the airport worry-free. 
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Our Offer and Promise
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By the end of this magical retreat, you will have deeply connected with other beautiful souls, slain some of your own saboteurs, and enjoyed the benefits of your own hunger for whatever you personally get to create!
You will have had the opportunity to create your own magic.
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Lots More Details
Frequently Asked questions
Is this retreat for me?
Maybe! Email [email protected] and let's talk about it!
Can you help me find a roommate? Yes! This is the most popular way to participate. In fact, we offer very few single occupancy casitas at an additional cost. We are happy to match you to a same-gender roommate. If you have a friend coming who you want to share a room with, just let us know.
Can I bring my kids/partner? Maybe. Some spouses do well, some don't. Many participants find it better to focus on themselves and their intentions for the retreat. We encourage social time deepening the friendships you will create here, some of which may last a lifetime. We plan to use the entire property for the retreat group, so others may find themselves bored and isolated, which might also be their dream come true.
Where do I fly into? Costa Rica has two airports! You want Liberia International Airport in Guanacaste (LIR), aka Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport.
Is there transportation from the airport to the retreat venue? Yes, included. You will receive a questionnaire for your flight information, and we will arrange shuttles from the airport to the retreat center with your classmates. Con Smania is about a 2-2.5 hour scenic drive. The shuttles usually have wifi and free bottled water. You can ask the drive for a stop - I usually ask them for a 5-10 min stop at the gas station in Nicoya for a bio break or snack/coffee, etc.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions? Absolutely, all special diets are welcome and celebrated here.
Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica? Absolutely. Costa Rica is the safest and lowest crime area of Central America. As a stable democracy, Costa Rica abolished its military in 1946, in favor of investing in free education and a public health care system. Crime in Playa Buena Vista is not on our radar. At our own beach, we will likely not see anyone else even there. Theft is the biggest crime in CR, mostly in busy tourist areas. When traveling to town or public beaches, like any tourist area, it is recommended not to wear expensive jewelry, flash cash or carry valuables, and never leave valuables in a car even if locked.
What is the weather like? Typical high is 83 F and lows of 73. During the green season, we expect a lovely rainfall most afternoons and if we're lucky, an amazing storm/show.
What do I bring? Casual and comfortable, with shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops being the norm. Most participants abandon any concerns about hair and makeup after the first day. Even going into town is very casual. If you plan to take advantage of a photoshoot, bring what you need to prepare for that. Irons and hair dryers are available on site. Bring sunscreen, sunhat and bug protection. Bring cash and Credit cards. Cards are accepted everywhere except the farmers markets. Cash only there, and preferably nothing larger than $20s. Many prices will be presented in US dollars, so you often don't have to worry about the exchange rate. You will almost always get change back in CR Colones. Payment for services like massage, reiki, etc. in cash is appreciated, but not required.
Still have a question? The trip is amazing, and we also know the training has to be a good fit. If you're not sure, book a call with Mike to chat.
Maybe! Email [email protected] and let's talk about it!
Can you help me find a roommate? Yes! This is the most popular way to participate. In fact, we offer very few single occupancy casitas at an additional cost. We are happy to match you to a same-gender roommate. If you have a friend coming who you want to share a room with, just let us know.
Can I bring my kids/partner? Maybe. Some spouses do well, some don't. Many participants find it better to focus on themselves and their intentions for the retreat. We encourage social time deepening the friendships you will create here, some of which may last a lifetime. We plan to use the entire property for the retreat group, so others may find themselves bored and isolated, which might also be their dream come true.
Where do I fly into? Costa Rica has two airports! You want Liberia International Airport in Guanacaste (LIR), aka Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport.
Is there transportation from the airport to the retreat venue? Yes, included. You will receive a questionnaire for your flight information, and we will arrange shuttles from the airport to the retreat center with your classmates. Con Smania is about a 2-2.5 hour scenic drive. The shuttles usually have wifi and free bottled water. You can ask the drive for a stop - I usually ask them for a 5-10 min stop at the gas station in Nicoya for a bio break or snack/coffee, etc.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions? Absolutely, all special diets are welcome and celebrated here.
Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica? Absolutely. Costa Rica is the safest and lowest crime area of Central America. As a stable democracy, Costa Rica abolished its military in 1946, in favor of investing in free education and a public health care system. Crime in Playa Buena Vista is not on our radar. At our own beach, we will likely not see anyone else even there. Theft is the biggest crime in CR, mostly in busy tourist areas. When traveling to town or public beaches, like any tourist area, it is recommended not to wear expensive jewelry, flash cash or carry valuables, and never leave valuables in a car even if locked.
What is the weather like? Typical high is 83 F and lows of 73. During the green season, we expect a lovely rainfall most afternoons and if we're lucky, an amazing storm/show.
What do I bring? Casual and comfortable, with shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops being the norm. Most participants abandon any concerns about hair and makeup after the first day. Even going into town is very casual. If you plan to take advantage of a photoshoot, bring what you need to prepare for that. Irons and hair dryers are available on site. Bring sunscreen, sunhat and bug protection. Bring cash and Credit cards. Cards are accepted everywhere except the farmers markets. Cash only there, and preferably nothing larger than $20s. Many prices will be presented in US dollars, so you often don't have to worry about the exchange rate. You will almost always get change back in CR Colones. Payment for services like massage, reiki, etc. in cash is appreciated, but not required.
Still have a question? The trip is amazing, and we also know the training has to be a good fit. If you're not sure, book a call with Mike to chat.
Location
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Con Smania Retreat Center
at Playa Buena Vista Sámara, Costa Rica, 55235 There are two nearby towns, Nosara and Samara to connect with community while enjoying the solitude of a very special remote setting. The closest airport is in Liberia, Costa Rica. Scenic shuttle to/from airport is included. To keep this affordable, we coordinate your arrival with fellow participants. if you need your own private shuttle, it's $175-$200 one way, so we don't provide a private shuttle for just one person arriving too late for others to wait for you, or on alternate dates. Most people arrive from 12-2pm. Departures back to the airport are usually easier to coordinate, with most flights departing from 12 noon - 3pm. |
What's included and what's not
What's Included
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* Pre-trip Zoom meeting Sunday, August 24th 10:30 am Eastern
* Round trip shared airport transfers from LIR (arrivals before 2:30pm). * 7 Nights shared Casita Accommodations * Buffet breakfast daily and all-day smoothie bar and snacks * 3 Buffet dinners (1 vegetarian, and 2 vegetarian plus fish) * Housekeeping as you like it - daily or not, free wash/dry/fold laundry service * Group Healing Experiences as created * Outing to Samara or Nosara, and Farmer’s Market * Beach meditations, circles, fire ceremonies and other activities * Playlist of our retreat music * Adventures and monkey sightings as they arise. |
What's Not Included
* Your round-trip flights from home to Liberia/Guanacaste Airport (LIR)
* Airport transfers if you arrive or depart outside of our shared shuttle times
* Extra Insurance Policies
* Fees for excursions not on agenda
* Shopping, phone calls, spa services
* Horseback rides, Gyrocopter Tours, Kayaking, etc.
* Tips for your shuttle drives and Housekeeper
* Airport transfers if you arrive or depart outside of our shared shuttle times
* Extra Insurance Policies
* Fees for excursions not on agenda
* Shopping, phone calls, spa services
* Horseback rides, Gyrocopter Tours, Kayaking, etc.
* Tips for your shuttle drives and Housekeeper
Your Investment
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Maximum of 20 Participants
$997 per person, double occupancy. One price - early bird, late bird, doesn't matter. It's Mike's friends and family price in a shared casita. If you are traveling with 2-4 people, we have casitas for you to share. If you are traveling alone, we can connect you with a roommate. Couples can have their own casita/room. $500 - add on for single occupancy if available. Contact me if you really want this. Very limited. Most people who share casitas usually have a richer retreat experience, but you do you. While I have your attention, add this to your calendar now: Pre-trip Zoom meeting to meet your fellow retreat-mates, set your intentions, get important info about airport shuttles, and general Q&A.
Sunday, August 24th 10:30 am Eastern. I'll send you a link. |
This is a very different kind of vacation. If I invited you, it's because I think its a good fit. If you are unsure or if you have further questions, please book a call with Mike here.
If you are travelling solo and we cannot match you with a roommate we may switch you to a single occupancy room, in which case there will not be any additional charge.
If you are travelling solo and we cannot match you with a roommate we may switch you to a single occupancy room, in which case there will not be any additional charge.
Cancellation Policy
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This is a shared vacation at a ridiculously discounted price. NOT a profit/business retreat. I/we are NOT your travel agent, planner or consultant. You are joining a friends and family group trip, and assuming all your own responsibilities and travel insurance.
Due to the special nature of this retreat, all payments are non refundable. You are invited to bring a spouse, partner, friends, family, etc. If you want to bring a small group of your own friends, that's great. DO NOT make this your business event and sell it to clients. I and Con Smania Retreat Center always reserve the right to refuse/decline participation and attendance to anyone for any reason. The property is designed for adults pursuing personal growth, peace, relaxation, building a more conscious life, and a lot of fun, laughter, music, etc. Most guests are up with the monkeys for sunrise and off to bed by 9 or 10 PM. Not a party scene, so don't invite guests who want nearby nightlife other than bats, monkeys, and endless stars. We reserve the right to cancel the trip if it does not meet the trip minimum, resulting in a total refund of amount paid. Trip cancellation and international health insurance is always recommended whenever making travel plans. You can use the very popular Travel Guard Insurance online and choose from several policy options or my personal favorite Nomad Travel Insurance from Allianz Global. |
