Baja Retreat Reviews from Real Life EcoWarriors

Hey friend!

As you know, our Baja EcoWarrior Retreat is coming up in September and I've shared all about the itinerary, the food, the sleeping arrangements, the experiences we're gonna have...but obviously I'm a bit biased when it comes to how incredible I think this retreat is.

So this week I'm handing the mic over to two EcoWarriors, Sarah and Vanessa, who joined us on our first-ever retreat back in 2021 to give you a little glimpse into what it was like for someone visiting the Vermilion Sea Field Station for the first time.

Before you decided to register for the Baja EcoWarrior Retreat, did you have any hesitations or concerns?

Sarah: Yes! It was a trip with people I never met, or only met once, including a long drive with them. I was even more nervous about the heat though. I have never been a fan, and have been known to get very lethargic and grumpy in the heat. Ha!

Vanessa: At the time, COVID was still a big concern; the year prior was cancelled because of the virus. I was worried the trip would be cancelled again. I am also gluten free so I was concerned if food substitutes for me were available. I also don't do well in super hot environments so was concerned I would get sick.

When you registered for the Retreat, what were you hoping to get from the experience? And did you?

S: I had lived in Washington for several years and had not really made friends. I was about to go through a divorce. I needed some peace, adventure, and to meet people. I absolutely got all three.

V: I wanted to have an adventurous vacation that also helped me reconnect with a sense of purpose.

What was your favorite part of the retreat?

S: Being in the water. I somehow forget how much I love just being in the water. And being near just giant animals like whale sharks was exhilarating!!!

V: I loved the boat trips and seeing all the pods of dolphins we encountered, and swimming with the whale sharks. I also enjoyed learning about how the Vermilion Sea Institute is connected with the local community and the work they do in conservation.

Do you feel like you experienced personal growth and/or took something home with you from Baja to incorporate into your life back home?

S: I try to get to the water more, I also try to disconnect from my phone more, but connect with people more.

V: Absolutely! I leaned into being outside of my comfort zone and saying "yes" on the trip. The idea of swimming with whale sharks sparked anxiety, however, when the time came to jump in the water, I just went for it!

The biggest thing I brought back home with me was my awareness and consumption of water. Little things like not letting the faucet run or cutting showers back a few minutes in aggregate make a big difference. There has always been an awareness of plastic consumption but seeing a bigger picture impact in these smaller communities was insightful.

Would you recommend the Baja EcoWarrior Retreat? What advice would you give to future Retreat attendees?

S: 10000% recommend. If I had the money and time off I would go every year.

I recommend a good hat and comfortable rash guard and 2 pairs of TEVAs-like sandals. I brought one pair and they were amazing but I did not take them off enough to dry thoroughly. Don't be afraid of the toilet. 😂

V: 100%! The Retreat is different compared to a regular vacation, however, it's fun, elements of it are relaxing, and just opens your mind and heart to the world around you.

My advice would be to pack simply but comfortably. If you're looking for connection or a sense of purpose, this is a fantastic trip to reconnect with yourself and the Earth. And say yes to doing something different. You'll be surprised by what you learn!

---

Thank you SO MUCH to Sarah and Vanessa for sharing their experiences with our Baja EcoWarrior Retreat - I appreciate you both so much 💙

And, friend, if you want to join us this year on our Baja EcoWarrior Retreat, now is the time. Registration for the retreat closes on June 1.

Come swim with whale sharks and fall asleep under the stars and wake to the waves.

Baja magica awaits...

📸: Jenny Severns