Frequently Asked Questions FAQ Contents What is included in the Art Workshop Fee? What is included in the Accommodation Package? What additional costs should I plan for? Do I need previous art experience? Can I bring my own art supplies? Will I receive more information after I RSVP? Do I need travel insurance? Can dietary requirements be accommodated? What should I pack? Cancellation & Refund Policy 1. What is included in the Art Workshop Fee? Your Art Workshop Fee covers the creative and instructional portion of your Wayfinders experience, including: Professional art instruction and creative mentorship with Michelle Guitard and Stephanie Danforth, where applicable Artist demonstrations, creative exercises and guided projects A handmade sketchbook Black and gold pens Curated collage papers A writing journal All sewing and textile supplies required for our Travelling Mercies Project Shared creative supplies such as glue sticks, scissors, decorative stamps, mini printers and other materials used throughout our workshops A supportive, inspiring and welcoming creative environment You are very welcome to bring additional favourite art materials or personal supplies you enjoy working with. Please note: A personal watercolour kit is required and is not provided. You may bring your own or purchase one prior to departure. Additional recommendations will be provided before your retreat. 2. What is included in the Accommodation Package? Your Accommodation Package provides for: Accommodations for the duration of the retreat All meals as outlined in the retreat itinerary Scheduled transportation to and from designated airports Excursions and day trips outlined in the itinerary Transportation associated with scheduled excursions and retreat activities Please refer to your individual retreat itinerary for destination-specific details. 3. What additional costs should I plan for? Unless otherwise specified, participants are responsible for: Flights to and from the retreat destination Travel insurance A personal watercolour kit Excursions or activities you choose to enjoy outside of the scheduled retreat itinerary Massage, spa or other personal wellness treatments Personal shopping and souvenirs Alcoholic beverages Any optional personal experiences or purchases outside of the scheduled retreat itinerary are at the participant’s own expense. 4. Do I need previous art experience? Not at all! Our retreats are designed for all experience levels, from complete beginners to experienced artists. Our approach is supportive and exploratory, with personalized guidance that allows everyone to learn, experiment and create at their own pace. There is no pressure to produce a particular outcome—the experience is about creativity, curiosity and connection. 5. Can I bring my own art supplies? Absolutely. While we provide the materials required for our planned creative projects, you are welcome to bring any additional art supplies or favourite materials you enjoy working with. We also share many of our creative supplies throughout the retreat, including glue sticks, scissors, decorative stamps, mini printers and other fun materials. 6. Will I receive more information after I RSVP? Absolutely. Once you RSVP and secure your space, we’ll begin sending you the information you need to prepare for your retreat. Because some participants reserve their retreat a year in advance while others may join closer to departure, information is shared in stages as the retreat approaches. You’ll receive information regarding registration, travel and arrival details, packing suggestions, required art materials, payment schedules and other destination-specific information. We will also gather important participant information, including flight and arrival details, dietary requirements and emergency contact information, as your retreat approaches. 7. Do I need travel insurance? We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. Your coverage should provide appropriate protection for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, trip interruption and baggage or travel disruptions. We encourage you to purchase insurance as early as possible and carefully review your policy to ensure it meets your individual needs. 8. Can dietary requirements be accommodated? In most cases, yes. We work closely with our accommodation partners and chefs whenever possible to accommodate dietary requirements and food sensitivities. Please provide your dietary information when completing your participant registration so it can be communicated in advance. 9. What should I pack? A detailed packing list and destination-specific preparation information will be provided as your retreat approaches. This will include suggestions for clothing, footwear, art materials, travel essentials and anything specific to the climate, activities and creative projects planned for your destination. 10. Cancellation & Refund Policy We understand that sometimes plans change. Because our international retreats require significant advance planning and financial commitments, the following cancellation and refund policy applies. Initial Deposit A $1,500 USD deposit is required to reserve your space. The initial deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. Second Payment The second payment is generally due approximately 8 months prior to the retreat departure date. More than 180 days before departure: Payments made beyond the initial non-refundable deposit will be refunded. 90–179 days before departure: 50% of the second payment will be refunded. The initial deposit remains non-refundable. Fewer than 90 days before departure: The initial deposit and second payment are non-refundable. Final Payment The final balance is generally due approximately 75–90 days before departure. Once the final payment has been made, all payments are non-refundable, as arrangements and financial commitments associated with your participation will have been confirmed. If We Are Able to Fill Your Space If you need to cancel and your space is subsequently filled by another participant, we will refund any recoverable amounts, less the non-refundable deposit and any costs or administrative expenses already incurred. Travel Insurance & Cancellations We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that provides trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical and emergency coverage. Travel insurance can provide important protection in the event of illness, family emergencies, travel disruptions or other unforeseen circumstances that prevent you from attending your retreat. By submitting your deposit, you acknowledge that you have read, understood and agreed to the Wayfinders Retreats Cancellation & Refund Policy.