How is Hibiscus different from other women’s tour operators?
 
Hibiscus views travel as a personally inspiring adventure.  No other tour operator or agent offers the opportunity to take an exciting vacation AND focus on your development in a supportive, exotic atmosphere under the guidance of experienced professionals.  Traveling in itself is empowering.  Hibiscus will help you harness this power so you can use it to achieve your goals and realize your dreams when you return home. 
 
What should I expect in the retreat?
 
The seminars and workshops take place in the middle of your trip.  They last three full days and are conducted in a remote, intimate environment.  Workshops in the morning will be followed by creative exercises later in the day. You will participate in group work and will be given plenty of time for personal reflection and coaching. At the conclusion of each seminar and workshop you will learn how to apply the tools and lessons in your everyday life.
 
The agenda for each seminar and workshop will differ based on the topic, the location and the speaker and the details can be found in the individual trip descriptions.  Back to Top
        
What are these exercises and what if I do not want to participate?
 
Exercises can include a painting or cooking class, a mindful walk to a breathtaking waterfall or a scavenger hunt around a small town. You might work with horses, paddle kayaks across a calm lake, or shop in a local grocery store. Each leader will develop a curriculum relevant to the personal growth topic and the locale.
 
Guests can opt not to participate in any activity in which they do not feel comfortable.  However, if you wish to fully benefit from the carefully planned curriculum, you are encouraged to immerse yourself in the activities with a joyous sense of openness and fun. Back to Top
 
Why not go to a local seminar?
 
When you participate in a seminar in an unfamiliar environment, you are operating out of your comfort zone.  Your mind and spirit experience things differently and more profoundly.  We all know that when we change our typical route to work, we see things through different eyes.  Additionally, the experiential exercises highlight the unique beauty of each location.  You can always go for a walk at home, but walking among the lakes of Patagonia is sure to bring new insight and gratitude.
 
You will also have unparalleled, intimate access to the guest speakers.  They will stay at the same hotel with you, eat meals and spend the days with you.
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Why a trip for women?
 
At Hibiscus Tours, we believe that women are special!  The camaraderie and bonds that form are the highlights that most women cite when they talk about their ‘women only’ trip.  These trips provide an opportunity to pursue your interests at your own pace and to share your experience with a group of like-minded women.  Hibiscus Tours offer even more insight and a more profound experience because our trips attract a group of women who share a common interest in the featured topic.
 
Also, let’s face it-- Women travel and communicate differently than men.  Because the seminars can be very emotional and reflective, we believe a nurturing ‘women only’ environment best supports our empowerment and experiential goals.
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Why not plan my own trip?
 
Hibiscus has carefully researched and arranged all aspects of your trip with a particular experience in mind.  We know the hotels, the towns, and the restaurants and we take special care to address any safety issues.  We can save you time and frustration.  Relax! Let us do the planning so you can focus on your journey of self discovery. This is your chance to meet a new group of adventurous friends – friends you most likely would not find on your own. Back to Top
 
Is it OK if I come alone?
 
Many of our guests travel alone.  Married, single, busy executives, mothers and retirees - many women are traveling by themselves for the first time. In addition to the comfort and friendly environment of a women only tour, a Hibiscus tour is particularly well-suited for individuals.  Each guest will have the time to experience their own personal journey with freedom and without the guise of judgment or scrutiny. If you wish to take this journey with close, caring friends or family, you are welcome to register together as well. 
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Will you match me with a roommate?
 
Yes.  We will be happy to match you with another guest. Our pricing is based on double occupancy, and all rooms are selected with the recognition that two newly acquainted women will be sharing the space.  Once you have registered for a trip, we will ask you some questions to help us find the roommate who best suits you and your preferences.  Some single rooms are available at additional cost. Back to Top
 
What is included in the price?
 
The trip includes most costs and expenses in the country to which you are traveling. For example, all hotel accommodations, domestic transportation, most meals, and all activities and entrance fees are included. What we do not cover is the international airfare to the country, trip and international health insurance, personal expenses such as telephone and laundry, and some meals as spelled out in the itinerary.  All meals will include a non-alcoholic beverage, and many evening meals will include wine and beer as well. The cost of any additional beverages is the responsibility of the guest. Back to Top
 
Why doesn’t the trip include airfare?
 
The women who participate in these tours come from many different places and have differing needs.  Some will extend their holiday to stay a few extra days, others will use frequent flyer miles to get to the trip destination.  We are not travel agents and we prefer to leave that to the experts.  However, we will be happy to recommend a travel agent to you. Back to Top
 
Where will we meet when we arrive?
 
We will meet in our first night hotel, as listed on the itinerary. We will send you information on the exact time and place of the first group meeting when you register. Because women will arrive from different places and at different times, we will not provide group transportation from the airport. We will be happy to arrange a transfer from the airport at an additional cost. We will also pair you with other women arriving if appropriate. Back to Top
 
Why am I limited to only one suitcase and will I have to carry my own bag?
 
It is important that you limit yourself to a bag you can comfortably carry if necessary. Backpacks and bags with wheels are the easiest to manage. You are limited to one bag because at times luggage storage for the group may be limited or at times you may have to navigate down cobblestone streets and narrow alleys. At other times you will have to get on and off ferries. In some instances the bags will be handled for you but we do not want this experience to be unpleasant or uncomfortable. As we do look for unique experiences and venues, it will often be necessary for you to carry your own bag. Back to Top
 
When should I book my trip?
 
If you see a trip that interests you on our site, we recommend that you register with us as soon as possible. Once you have confirmed your deposit and registration, it is wise to book your air travel and make all other personal arrangements as soon as conveniently possible. The sooner you make your arrangements, the more likely it is that you will get into the group for the Hibiscus trip you want. You are also more likely to get favorable airfare if you book in advance.  Please be sure to read our cancellation policies when you reserve your space with us. Back to Top
 
How do I book my trip?
 
It's easy. Just fill out the Registration Form and mail, fax or email it to us along with a deposit of $500. You can pay by personal check or credit card, and your space will be assured once we receive your deposit. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as we receive the deposit. You can also call us at (888) 896-1116 if you have any questions before you sign up. Back to Top