life by the lake
February 20 - February 27, 2025
March 4 - 11, 2025
The 2025 Lake Atitlan Life by the Lake retreat — February 20 - February 27 or March 4 - 11 is held at Joyce’s retreat property, Casa Paloma. This seven-night trip to Guatemala--one night at a luxury boutique hotel in the lovely Spanish colonial city of Antigua, followed by six nights at Joyce’s home on the lake. Think of this as a time to explore a fascinating culture, relax in a hammock, get a massage or swim under a volcano, share great meals in a location of incomparable beauty, and every evening, or early morning, over coffee--engage in lively conversation (about writing, books, and more) with your hostess, Joyce.
This all-inclusive retreat won’t focus on writing memoir, instead we will explore the rich Mayan culture around the lake, with optional excursions to view birds, a sunset hike, a Mayan weaving collective, unique shopping and much more.
pricing
Private room (single) - $4495 - $5495
Private room (couple) - $6095 - $6995
Shared (double) room - $3995 - $4095
What’s included?
Three healthy and extraordinary meals a day prepared fresh and served by our private chef, Rosa Navichoc Chac - gluten/dairy free options are available
Healthy homemade snacks, coffee, tea, and filtered water are available to all guests throughout the duration of your stay
One private professional one-hour lakeside massage
Wi-Fi and airport transportation
One night stay in a lovely boutique hotel in Antigua and dinner
Daily sauna access
Swimming and water activities including paddle boards and kayaks
Daily morning group yoga class
optional activities
Cooking class with Chef Rosa
Sunrise hike
Shopping trip in San Marcos
Day trip to San Juan to visit a chocolate-making operation
Trip to Chichicastenango - the nature reserve in Panajachel, where you’re likely to encounter monkeys and other wildlife (also butterflies) as you walk on swinging bridges along gorgeous trails
Tour a local coffee roastery
Cacao ceremony
Traditional Mayan Shaman fire ceremony
Women’s weaving cooperative guided tour and shopping opportunity in Santiago
Waterfall hike
Cloud forest hike in search of the Quetzal
If you have reviewed the FAQs and would like to move forward with next steps, please continue to the form below.
Accomodations
Rooms are reserved on a first come, first served basis.
See here for more photos and descriptions of each room at Casa Paloma.
*Cancellation policy: Full refund (minus $500 admin fee) if cancellation is 10 weeks prior to retreat start date.
Testimonials
Vicky B, Florida
The Life by the Lake experience exceeded all of my expectations! It included mamy activities and the facilities and grounds are beautiful.. The unexpected benefits were the deep sense of community and connection with the others. Many thanks to Joyce and her staff!
Charmion H, Montana
Ten out of 10 stars for food, staff, and retreat organization! I do not eat gluten, dairy, or most animal products - and every meal was as good or better than if I had traveled to a popular restaurant in Kansas City that I love. Everything is done with beautiful intention here by the staff, and it shows. The gardens, landscaping, construction, and all of the lodging were so comfortable and beautiful, incorporating natural and elegant design together. My favorite activities were: teaching yoga on the platform, hearing from Kris about the civil war, hearing from Santos about his journey into the US, our live concert in the living room, talking with Joyce and everyone at the retreat, riding in the back of the pickup along the lake, and walking into San Marcos and around the other villages.
Patricia D, New York
We all had one of the most amazing times of our lives. This was the best thing I have ever done for myself. I truly bonded with the people I met on the retreat. We talk to each other every day and some have even gotten to visit each other already. I loved every minute-- the people, the place, the experience. And Joyce is the most wonderful host. All the people on our trip want to go back. I wish I was still there.
Fern S, Los Angeles
Interesting, deep, yummy, fun and oh-so-beautiful. The amazing Joyce and her terrific team carefully attended to every detail, and there was so much to do if you chose to participate. The best was the quality group of people who were attracted to this special opportunity.
Cynthia K, New York City
I set off to an unknown country and culture with people I’d never met traveling by air, van, boat, and tuk tuk to Lake Atitlán. I was looking for an adventure when I signed up for the Life by The Lake gathering but what I found was so much more - a life-changing and life-enhancing experience with extraordinary new friends. It was boots-on-the-ground immersion into the Mayan culture, history, food, and character all while surrounded by magical Casa Paloma and guided by our wise and spirited host, Joyce. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Kristi G, Florida
I came with my wife and left with my new beloved community of amazing people AND I love group hugs!!!
Dean F, Oregon
Life by the Lake is what you make it. I chose to learn from fellow visitors and guest speakers, educate my palate with Guatemalan food, and write. The place is so calming and energizing…why leave?
Susan C, MO
You will come away from Life by the Lake with Joyce with many new friends. Joyce is the catalyst who makes this possible. She is genuinely warm, welcoming, and authentic. The lake itself is magical and provides the perfect setting to lose yourself and gain insights into Mayan culture, past and present.
Heidi M, California
INCREDIBLE!
Barbara B, California
My time at the lake keeps “giving” in so many ways. Joyce was an amazing leader and i met an amazing group of people. It touched my heart, my thoughts, and my dreams.
Nori F, California
I find myself dreaming of Casa Paloma and the peaceful state of mind I experienced while there. There were many best moments but my morning swims were restorative in ways no therapist can replicate.