ABOUT THE RETREAT

What is the Melanated Wellness Retreat?
The Melanated Wellness Retreat is a luxury women’s wellness experience designed to help guests relax, recharge, reconnect, and experience intentional self care in beautiful Costa Rica.
This experience blends wellness, luxury, culture, sisterhood, and curated experiences in an elevated tropical setting focused on intentional rest, rejuvenation, and connection.

Who is Melanated Beauty Spa?
Melanated Beauty Spa is the host and wellness brand behind this retreat experience, focused on self care, beauty, wellness, and intentional experiences centered around women of color.

Who is LQS?
Legacy Quest Services, also known as LQS, is the travel and experience coordination company assisting with retreat logistics, accommodations, transportation, and curated guest experiences throughout Costa Rica.
LQS specializes in creating elevated group travel experiences designed around connection, culture, luxury, and memorable moments.

Who will be helping guide the experience?
Members of the LQS team will be on-site throughout the retreat to assist guests and help ensure a smooth and elevated experience.

  • Desmand will primarily oversee logistics, coordination, transportation flow, and overall guest experience support.

  • Rumone will primarily help curate the vibes, photography moments, content support, and guest atmosphere throughout the retreat.

Together, the team will help guide guests through their Costa Rica wellness experience from arrival through departure.

What will we be doing during the retreat?
Guests can expect a combination of wellness, relaxation, luxury experiences, and curated activities throughout the retreat, including:

  • Morning yoga and guided affirmations

  • Stretch coaching sessions

  • Spa experiences

  • Journaling and intention-setting sessions

  • Cooking class experience

  • Sunset Melanated Dinner

  • Daily curated activities

  • Chef-prepared meals

  • Relaxation and free time

  • Professional content opportunities

  • Sisterhood and networking experiences



LOCATION + TRAVEL QUESTIONS


Where is the retreat located?
The retreat will take place in Manuel Antonio, a beautiful coastal destination in Costa Rica known for its beaches, jungle scenery, wellness atmosphere, and luxury accommodations.

How far is Manuel Antonio from San José?
Manuel Antonio is approximately 3 to 3.5 hours from San José depending on traffic and transportation timing.

What type of accommodations will we be staying in?
Guests will stay in a beautiful luxury spa retreat-style home designed for relaxation, wellness, and group connection throughout the weekend.

What airport should I fly into?
Guests should plan to fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica unless otherwise instructed.

Are flights included?
No. Flights are not included in the retreat package pricing.
Guests are responsible for booking their own flights unless separate flight booking assistance is requested.

Is transportation included?
Yes. Transportation is included:

  • From your home to your designated departure airport

  • Round trip transportation in Costa Rica

  • Transportation for retreat activities included in the itinerary



Will transportation be private?
Transportation will primarily be coordinated in grouped arrivals and departures when possible to help create a smooth and welcoming experience for guests.

Will food and beverages be available during transportation?
We are working to curate a welcoming transportation experience that may include light food, beverages, and elevated touches upon arrival and transfer coordination.

Do I need a passport?
Yes. A valid passport is required for international travel to Costa Rica.
Your passport must:

  • Be valid for at least 6 months beyond September 2026

  • Have at least 3 blank pages available

Guests are responsible for ensuring all travel documents are current and valid prior to departure.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Will embassy and local emergency information be provided?
Yes. Approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to the retreat, guests will receive:

  • U.S. Embassy information

  • Local police department information

  • Emergency contact information

  • Local recommendations

  • Updated weather forecasts and packing suggestions



Will weather updates be provided before the retreat?
Yes. Weather information and recommended packing guidance will be sent approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure.

LODGING QUESTIONS


What is the difference between the Shared and Private packages?


Shared Experience Package — $3,000 Per Person
Our Shared Experience Package is perfect for guests looking to enjoy the full retreat experience while sharing accommodations with another guest.
Includes:

  • Shared luxury room accommodations

  • Full access to all retreat activities and wellness experiences

  • Daily chef-prepared meals and snacks

  • Transportation throughout the retreat

  • Transportation from your home to your designated departure airport

  • Spa experience

  • Melanated Wellness Essentials Bag valued at $250+

Bed configurations may vary between king, queen, full, or double occupancy arrangements depending on room selection.

Private Room Experience Package — $4,200 Per Person
Our Private Room Experience Package offers a more elevated and intimate retreat experience for guests wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.
Includes Everything in the Shared Experience Package PLUS:

  • Private luxury bedroom accommodations

  • Personalized luxury robe upgrade

  • VIP content package including solo edited photos and a personalized highlight reel

  • Personalized intention journal curated for the retreat experience

This package is designed for guests looking for additional privacy, elevated touches, and a more personalized wellness experience throughout the retreat.

Will I know my room assignment before the retreat?
Yes. Room assignments will be communicated prior to the retreat.

Can I request a roommate?
Yes. Guests may request a preferred roommate during the booking process.

Can I book a room with my friend?
Absolutely. Shared accommodations are perfect for friends attending together.

Are rooms first come, first served?
Yes. Room selections and placements will be secured based on booking order and availability.

Will I have my own bed in the shared package?
Some shared rooms may include shared king or queen beds while others may have separate beds depending on the room configuration.
Specific room details will be communicated prior to arrival.

PAYMENT QUESTIONS


How do I secure my spot?
Your spot is secured once your deposit and required booking information are submitted.

Is the deposit refundable?
Deposits are non-refundable unless otherwise stated in writing.

Will payment plans be available?
Yes. Payment plan options will be available.

When is final payment due?
Final payment deadlines will be communicated after booking confirmation.

What happens if I can no longer attend?
Payments made toward the retreat may be non-refundable depending on timing and vendor commitments. Guests are strongly encouraged to obtain travel insurance.

WELLNESS + EXPERIENCE QUESTIONS

What wellness experiences are included?
Experiences may include:

  • Morning yoga

  • Guided affirmations

  • Stretch coaching

  • Spa services

  • Journaling sessions

  • Cooking class experience

  • Sound therapy opportunities

  • Curated daily activities

  • Sunset Melanated Dinner

    What spa services are included?
    Guests will receive spa-focused wellness experiences during the retreat. Final service details will be confirmed closer to the retreat date.

    Will meals be provided?
    Yes. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks will be prepared by a private chef throughout the retreat.

    Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
    Yes. Guests will receive an intake form to provide allergies, dietary restrictions, and preferences.

    What activities are included?
    One curated activity per day will be included. Final activity selections will be announced closer to the retreat.

    Is this retreat physically intense?
    No. This retreat is designed to be relaxing and restorative. Guests are encouraged to participate at their own comfort level.

    MELANATED WELLNESS BAG QUESTIONS


    What is included in the Melanated Wellness Essentials Bag?
    The wellness bag includes:

  • Curated skincare kit

  • Spa essentials

  • Yoga outfit

  • Luxury robe

  • Fanny pack

  • Water bottle



Is the wellness bag included in the retreat price?
The Melanated Wellness Essentials Bag is coordinated separately through Melanated Beauty Spa and may require separate payment instructions.

CONTENT + MEDIA QUESTIONS


Will there be photography and videography?
Yes. Professional content coverage will take place throughout the retreat experience.

What is included in the VIP content package?
Private Room guests will receive:

  • Solo edited photos

  • Personalized highlight reel content



Will I appear in retreat content?
By attending, guests may appear in retreat photos and videos unless otherwise discussed in advance.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS


Will there be free time?
Yes. The retreat schedule will include intentional downtime for rest, exploration, and relaxation.

What should I pack?
A suggested packing list will be provided prior to departure.

Will Wi-Fi be available?
Yes. Wi-Fi will be available at the property.

Can I arrive early or stay longer?
Guests interested in extending their stay should inquire separately based on availability.

Who do I contact if I have questions?
Additional retreat communication details and support contacts will be provided after booking confirmation.