A Caribbean Escape for Rest, Sunshine, and Good Books
Join us December 9–13, 2026 on the beaches of Aruba for a 5-day, 4-night women’s-only Reading Retreat, where warm ocean breezes, turquoise water, and relaxed island rhythms create the perfect setting to slow down and savor a good book.
Over five days, we’ll settle into a beautiful villa near the beach, where mornings begin with coffee and quiet reading time, afternoons may include swimming or exploring the island, and evenings bring shared meals, laughter, and conversation under the stars.
What to Expect
At our luxurious Aruban villa, you’ll be cared for with:
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Comfortable beachfront accommodations with a pool, hot tub, and walk-out beach
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Continental breakfasts, chef-prepared dinners, plus all on-property drinks included
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Airport transfers to and from Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), Aruba
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A welcoming retreat host to take care of all the details
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Optional daily activities such as snorkeling and visiting Flamingo Beach
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Uninterrupted reading time and cozy spaces to relax
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A book exchange and a local bookstore visit to spark your reading list
Our flexible itinerary is designed to balance relaxation and adventure. You choose how much (or how little) you want to do.
We'll be staying in a beautiful beachside villa!
Is This Retreat for You?
This retreat is thoughtfully designed for women who want to slow down and unwind. It’s the perfect opportunity to dive into your TBR pile, discover new favorite reads, and savor quiet moments surrounded by inspiring landscapes.
Whether you’re traveling solo, coming with friends, or attending with a book club, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free experience with every detail thoughtfully planned. From cozy accommodations to curated activities, this retreat offers space to read, relax, and recharge at your own pace while sharing the experience with a supportive community of fellow book-loving women.
Pricing & Booking
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$2,890 per person, double occupancy
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$2,600 per person, four-person occupancy (two king beds)
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$900 upgrade, single occupancy
We pair you with a compatible roommate or you can room with a friend. Solo travelers are welcome to upgrade for privacy.
Secure your spot with a 40% deposit ($1,156).
Full balance due by October 4, 2026.
Deposits are non-refundable.
Retreat will be confirmed once 80% of spots are filled. If minimum numbers are not met, deposits can be refunded or applied to a future trip.
It's recommended to not book your flight until the retreat has been confirmed.
View property images here!
Location & Accommodation
During our stay, we’ll be based in a private, beachfront villa on the southeast side of the island of Aruba. The luxurious villa offers space to gather, relax, and enjoy the island at our own pace.
The private backyard provides stunning ocean views, direct beach access, a large infinity swimming pool, and a luxurious hot tub overlooking the ocean.
We'll explore our area with a visit to the famous "Flamingo Beach", snorkeling the beautiful waters, and a jeep adventure to natural pools and caves.
What's Included
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Professional retreat host & on-site support
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5 days, 4 nights accommodation at the villa
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4 continental breakfasts and chef-prepared dinners
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Some lunches provided on day excursions, but not all
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All on-property beverages
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Round-trip airport transportation (AUA airport)
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Welcome bag and book exchange
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3 included optional group activities such as snorkeling, visiting Flamingo Beach, and a jeep adventure to natural pools and caves
What's Not Included
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Flights to and from Aruba
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Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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Off-site meals and drinks not otherwise specified
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Tips for drivers, tour operators, housekeeping, and chefs
Sample Itinerary
(subject to change)
Day 1
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Arrival and group transfer from AUA Airport (meet at 3-3:30 pm for transfer)
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Villa check-in & welcome gift
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Property tour and introductions with a group book exchange
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 2
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Continental breakfast
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Relaxation and reading time
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Group trip to Flamingo Beach
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Lunch on your own
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Dinner at restaurant and evening at leisure
Day 3
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Continental breakfast
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Optional jeep adventure to natural pools and caves
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Afternoon reading and relaxation
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Dinner at restaurant and evening at your leisure
Day 4
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Continental breakfast
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Optional morning snorkeling
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Bookstore visit
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Reading and relaxation time
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at your leisure
Day 5
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Continental breakfast
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Departure transfer to the airport at 10:00 am (arrival at the AUA airport around 10:30 am)
Getting There
Fly into Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), Aruba. Plan to arrive by 2:20 pm on Wednesday, December 9th to join the group shuttle departing at or around 2:30 pm. The manor is approximately a 30-minute drive from the airport.
If your arrival plans differ, please let us know. You may need to arrange your own transport.
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Lightweight, breathable clothing
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A light layer for evenings
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Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the island
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Water shoes, if you prefer to have them for water adventures
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Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
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Swimwear and beach clothes
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A reusable water bottle
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Your favorite books
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A book you’ve loved to exchange during dinner on night one
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Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
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Any personal essentials or medications
Towels, hair dryers, eye masks, and earplugs will be provided. A full packing list will be provided prior to departure.
And be sure to have extra room in your luggage for your gift bag and other bookish goodies!
What to Bring
Money & Spending
Most places in Aruba accept credit cards—Visa and Mastercard are recommended. It’s also a good idea to carry around $50 USD in cash for small purchases or emergencies. You’re welcome to bring Aurban Florin if you prefer, but there are ATMs at the airport where you can withdraw local currency once you arrive.
Group travel with Slow Travel Co. is all about ease and connection. Your Retreat Host will handle all logistics and coordination during the trip, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your experience. If you have questions or need help at any time, your host is just a message away!
Traveling as Part of a Group
Meal Plan & Dietary Restrictions
Each day begins with a light continental breakfast, and dinners are prepared by our private chef. Some lunches will be provided on our daytime excursions, but not all. If you have dietary restrictions, follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, or have severe allergies, please notify us at reservations@slowtravelco.com at least 30 days before departure so we can accommodate you.
All rooms are either double occupancy with king or two twin beds, or four-person occupancy with two kings or two queen beds. Unless you’re traveling with a friend or partner, we’ll pair you with a fellow retreat attendee. Occasionally, rooms with two beds are available, but this can’t be guaranteed. If you prefer privacy, you can upgrade to a single room for an additional fee.
To ensure a comfortable stay, please be considerate of your roommate regarding cleanliness and noise. Earplugs and eye masks will be provided. Travelers who use a CPAP machine or are aware of snoring may want to consider a single room upgrade.
Shared Rooms & Accommodations
Getting to Know the Group
Before the retreat, we’ll set up a private WhatsApp group so you can connect with your fellow travelers. Feel free to chat, share excitement, or arrange virtual meetups ahead of time!
Your Retreat Host is an experienced traveler and will manage all aspects of the trip — from planning to on-site coordination. She is your primary contact for questions or support before and during the retreat. After booking, expect a friendly welcome email with more details like packing tips and travel info.
Please note, your Retreat Host is not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you feel unwell, she can help direct you to local healthcare providers.
Your Group Leader & Support
Safety
While we take every precaution to ensure safe activities and excursions, please remember your own responsibility for personal safety. Avoid going out alone at night and follow all safety recommendations.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this retreat. If you need recommendations on reliable providers, just reach out. We’re happy to help!
Travel Insurance
Medical & Health Requirements
All travelers must have valid medical insurance
before departure.
December in Aruba brings warm, sunny days and pleasant evenings, making it an ideal time to enjoy the island. Daytime temperatures typically range from 82–86°F (28–30°C), with evenings cooling slightly into the mid-70s°F (around 24°C). Rain is minimal and Aruba’s steady trade winds help keep the heat comfortable. We recommend checking the local forecast before packing and coming prepared with breathable clothing, sun protection, and a light layer for breezy evenings.
Climate & What to Expect
House Guidelines
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Please be respectful of your roommate and fellow guests.
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No visitors or guests allowed at the manor without prior approval from the Retreat Host and your roommate.
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Help us keep the space safe and welcoming for everyone.
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No smoking.
