Imagine arriving on your curated, bucket list trip knowing that every detail had been handled on your behalf. Instead of spending months (or years!) researching and planning, you have instead spent that time anticipating the experience that has been expertly crafted for you, knowing that your group travel experience will be one to treasure for a lifetime. Your experienced guides and facilitators are there to welcome you to a week of exploration and expansion. Welcome, curious traveler. We're so glad you're here.
group travel FAQs
Group Travel Experience
what are your group trips and retreats about?
what types of people come on your trips?
Our guests are typically curious, growth-oriented travelers who value authentic experiences, meaningful conversations, adventure, and connection. We host a mix of guests of all genders, from solo travelers, to couples, to friend groups. Participants are 18+, with many travelers falling between their 30s and 60s, though ages vary by retreat. All are welcome.
How is Explore & Expand different from a traditional group tour?
Unlike typical group tours, our retreats focus on small groups (max 8-12 guests), authentic local experiences, ethical and socially conscious tourism practices, intentional community, and carefully vetted accommodations and guides. We personally research destinations and activities before inviting guests to join us.
are your retreats only for yoga practitioners?
No. While many retreats include optional yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices, guests do not need prior yoga experience. Many participants join primarily for the travel, adventure, culture, and community.
what group destinations do you offer?
Previous bucket list group trips have included Peru, Costa Rica, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Thailand, Patagonia, the Galápagos Islands, Oaxaca, and more. Retreat offerings vary by year.
what is a typical day on retreat like?
Most days include a combination of movement or mindfulness practices, cultural experiences, guided excursions, local cuisine, free time, and group connection. Every destination is unique. Each trip typically includes at least one "Choose Your Own Adventure" day, where guests are invited to explore on their own from our curated list of local activities, or in whatever way their heart desire.
how physically demanding are your retreats?
Activity levels vary by destination. Some trips include hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, or walking tours, while others are more relaxed. Each retreat page includes activity-level guidance.
Accommodations & Food
what types of accommodations do your groups stay in?
can you accomodate dietary restrictions?
We do our best to support common dietary needs, but accommodations vary by destination. Travelers with severe allergies or highly restrictive dietary requirements should contact us before booking.
do solo travelers share rooms?
Most retreats offer shared accommodations, though private room upgrades may be available depending on the destination.
what type of food is offered on your trips?
We are big proponents of experiencing place and culture through our senses, including (and especially) food. Meals vary by location, and always center locally sourced ingredients and regional cuisine.
Travel Support & Safety
is this a good trip for first time international travelers?
do you offer pre-trip guidance & support?
Yes. All guests receive curated pre-trip resources and guidance, and have access to hosts Kelly and Carrie throughout the travel planning process. We handle all the behind the scenes details so you don't have to.
will someone help me plan flights?
Yes. We provide recommended arrival and departure windows and guidance to make booking flights easier.
do i need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for all guests.
who hosts Explore & expand trips?
Explore & Expand Retreats co-owners Kelly Howard and Carrie Wren personally host all retreats; we will be with you throughout the trip. Get to know us here! We also partner with expert local guides to support us in crafting ethical, socially conscious tourism and authentic travel experiences for our groups.
Booking & Pricing
what is included in the retreat price?
are payment plans available?
Yes. Payment plans are typically available for Explore & Expand group trips. Specifics can be found on each retreat page.
what is not included
Airfare travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, personal spending, optional activities, and certain meals may not be included depending on the destination.
are deposits refundable?
Currently, deposits and retreat payments are non-refundable. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.
You Don't just have to take our word for it
Traveling solo was a big step out of my comfort zone, but I'm so glad that I did it! I felt so much of the trip was an invitation to deeper self-discovery and expansion, from meeting strangers ( who many felt like family by the time I left) to tasting new food/cuisine, also hiking and sharing during the workshop times. I felt like I have a deeper sense of integrity and also adventure / courage after going on this trip. Something about it gave me a greater sense of confidence to travel more in the future and invest in things that are generative for my creativity and good for my soul. It was a rejuvenating/inspiring experience from the hospitality on the island, to the incredible food and meals that we shared, to the gorgeous island views. It was a mix of soulful self/group reflection mixed in with playful adventure and exploration. It exceeded any expectation I had!
I've been on multiple retreats with Carrie and Kelly and I've found that it's an excellent way to explore new destinations with a group of fellow adventurers. I've had more amazing experiences than I can list, most of which are the interactions with old and new friends while exploring incredible new places. The excursions are always carefully curated and let you get close to the culture and people of the places you visit. I also love the yoga, but for those wondering, it is completely optional, and these trips are so much more than a yoga retreat.
Brooke L., Greece
Rob Y., Costa Rica, Oaxaca, Peru, Italy, Greece
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