Getting to Guatemala City is easier and quicker than you think. There are nonstop flights from Newark, LAX, Miami, and Washington D.C., and easy connections from many others. As of now, Guatemala requires proof of vaccination. Airfares are likely to change, but depending on when you book and from where, but can be as low as $250 round trip.

From the moment each writer’s flight touches down in Guatemala, our team of local workers, along with U.S.-based workshop coordinator Gina Alligood, will make sure that each writer in the group feels safe. A private driver will meet you outside the airport to bring you to your hotel in Antigua for the first night of your trip.

The group will meet up for sunset cocktail and appetizers and share a meal at what Joyce describes as the most beautiful hotel she’s ever experienced, Meson Panza Verde,. Many of the rooms have fireplaces and deep soaking tubs and private gardens. Every one is beautifully decorated in traditional Guatemalan style. Next morning, after breakfast at Panza Verde and a few hours for exploring Antigua, a shuttle will transport the group to the lake, where you’ll take a boat that will bring you o Joyce’s private dock. She’ll be waiting to greet the group and bring everyone to their room or casita for a tour of the gardens—or a rest and a shower, followed by glass of wine, a meal featuring pizza from Joyce’s outdoor oven and more—guacamole with homemade blue corn tortillas and fresh vegetables or fish and salad from the garden, and the first night of what promises to be a week filled with great conversation, laughter, community, a night sky filled with stars, and friendship.

Back in your private room, overlooking the lake and the volcano, you may enjoy the best night’s sleep in a long time. (Many do.) Come morning, you’ll wake to a glorious sunrise, the sound of birds in the trees and the sight of fishermen in their wooden boats out on the lake. Share a breakfast of fresh fruits, warm tortillas, locally-roasted coffee and more with your new community of writers.

Then …we get to work.

To join us or find out more, e-mail our workshop coordinator Gina Alligood (writewithjoycemaynard@gmail.com)