- Six nights accommodations based on double occupancy (we can pair you with a roommate, unless you would like to upgrade to a private room) in an exclusive colonial mansion within the historical city walls. Each room is spacious with an in-suite bathroom, air conditioning & ceiling fan.
- Vinyasa yoga (unless otherwise stated) taught by inspiring & FUN teachers.
- Beach walks & body sculpting classes
- Cooking classes focusing on healthy ways to enjoy the foods of the region at home.
- Excursions such as a day trip to the islands, a guided historical walking tour and a dip in the natural mud baths.
- Salsa dancing lessons.
- Spanish language lessons.
- Each person also receives one massage.
- Delicious, healthy meals reflective of the region are served each day. The tasty low-fat meal plan consists of chemical free food, fresh catch fish, lean meats, creative salads, healthy whole grains and lots of exotic fruits and juices. We even include some yummy desserts, made the ESCAPE TO SHAPE
way!
- Round trip ground transportation from the Cartagena airport to the private mansion.
- Tax.
The above rate does not include airfare to Cartagena. Alcohol is not included. Gratuity is at your discretion.
Shorter programs available, PLEASE INQUIRE.
Q. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The price for a six night stay is $3000 US (approximately 1900 Euro). This rate includes everything listed above and is based on 2 people sharing a room (we can pair you with a roommate).
There is an extra charge of $1300.00 US for a private room.
If you would like to extrend your stay, additional nights are $300.00 US per person/per night (based on double occupancy, includes accommodations, classes, meals and tax). Extra nights are based on availability.
The above rate does not include airfare to Cartagena or alcohol. Gratuity is at your discretion.
Q. CAN I COME FOR LESS THAN 6 NIGHTS?
Three, four and five night programs are offered within our six night programs, based on availability. Prices are as follows and include accommodations (based on double occupancy), meals, activities, classes, one massage, excursions, round trip ground transportation to/from the airport/villa.
- 3 nights- $1500.00 US per person, double occupancy
- 4 nights- $2000.00 US per person, double occupancy
- 5 nights- $2500.00 US per person, double occupancy
Q. WHAT AIRPORT DO I FLY INTO?
You fly into the Cartagena de Indias, Rafael Nunez International Airport (airport code CTG). We are located about 15 minutes away from the airport.
Q. HOW CAN I GET TO AND FROM THE AIRPORT?
Round trip ground transportation from the Cartagena Airport to the villa is included in your stay. Look for the ESCAPE TO SHAPE sign as you exit the airport. We will send you a reminder a week prior to your departure.
Q. WHAT CURRANCY IS ACCEPTED IN THE AREA?
Dollars and Colombian Pesos are accepted as payment upon checkout, as are Visa, MasterCard and American Express. The official currencey in Colombia is the Colombian Pesos, which is needed for any purchases you may make in the town. You can exchange money at the airport, and there are ATM's readily available throughout the town as well.
Q. WHAT TIME IS CHECK IN & CHECK OUT?
We aim to be as flexible as possible. The first group activity begins at 4:00 pm on the first day, and the program ends after breakfast and the morning workout on the last day. We realize that flight times vary so we work with your schedule as much as possible.
Q. WHAT WILL YOU EAT IN CARTAGENA?
Wondering what your healthy, nutritious Colombian diet will consist of? We use only local, natural, unprocessed, chemical free food in order to ensure that you fuel your body with the very best. We provide meals that are high in vitamins, minerals and fiber, while low in fat and calories. The meal plan consists of whole grains, fresh fish and shellfish, organic chicken, lots of exotic fruits, vegetables, nuts and traditional Colombian dishes and desserts, all prepared the ESCAPE TO SHAPE way- flavorful yet low fat and low calorie! Every dish can be prepared vegetarian as well, upon request.
We serve lots of fresh fruit smoothies and juices, along with the signature Colombian drink- coconut lemonade....and of course, Colombian coffee, considered by many to be the finest in the world. We also offer an interesting wine selection of South American wines along with mojitos, pina coladas and beer (alcohol is optional and at an extra price). See below for a few sample days of eating & drinking.
SAMPLE 1
BREAKFAST - Fresh fruits, yogurt, granola, fresh juice, tea & coffee.
LUNCH - Shrimp ceviche served with carrot & celery sticks. Warm vegetarian tamale wrapped in a banana leave
SNACK - Fresh fruit smoothies
COCKTAILS - Wines & cocktails, cheese empanadas
DINNER - Carrot & ginger soup, grilled fish with arroz con coco, steamed vegetables.
DESERT - Banana bread with chocolate drizzle
SAMPLE 2
BREAKFAST - Fresh fruits, arepea' huevo, fresh juice, tea & coffee.
LUNCH - .Ajaico (traditional homemade chicken soup with lots vegetables and sliced avocado), baked patacones (plantain chips)
SNACK - Fresh watermelon slices
COCKTAILS - Wines & cocktails- goat cheese on toast point and tuna tartare
DINNER - Lentil soup, grilled chicken with hogoa sauce (traditional sauce of tomatoes & onions), rice with red beans.
DESERT - Passion fruit sorbet
SAMPLE 3
BREAKFAST - Fresh fruits, Colombian pancakes, fresh juice, tea & coffee
LUNCH - Gazpacho soup, grilled chicken salad
SNACK - Coffee frappes
COCKTAILS BY THE POOL - Wines and cocktails, olives & nuts
DINNER - Pumpkin soup, grilled shrimp with a light coconut sauce, arroz con coco, fresh green salad
DESSERT - Bite sized cacao brownies
Q. ARE ADDITIONAL SPA TREATMENTS AVAILABLE?
Yes. One massage is included in your stay with us. You can pre-book additional massages on the REGISTRATION form. Additional massages are $85.00 per hour (approximatley 55 Euro).
We also offer manicures, pedicures and facials using all natural incredients. Ask for a spa menu prior to arrival to pre-book.
Q. IS IT MANDATORY TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL ESCAPE TO SHAPE ACTIVITIES?
This is your vacation, and while we encourage everyone to participate in everything, if you decide to opt out of any activity, it is completely up to you. There is no pressure or competition to participate, just healthy, fun and interesting options every day.
Q. IS ESCAPE TO SHAPE GOOD FOR THE SOLO TRAVELER?
YES!
ESCAPE TO SHAPE was created with the solo traveler in mind. Meals are served communal and you can be as social or as private as you like. Most of our guests make friends and keep in touch with each other and are completely comfortable being on their own. This is also a very safe place to travel as a solo man or woman. That being said, couples will also love this trip, and we have three suites that are especially ideal for couples!
Q. WHAT IF I AM NOT IN THE BEST FITNESS SHAPE?
Not a problem at all, as our program is designed to accommodate all fitness levels. Each class is challenging and offers you an opportunity to return home lighter and leaner. Additionally, our teachers and trainers are happy to work with you individually to help you reach your fitness goals.
Q. WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN MY STAY?
Airfare is not included, nor are extra spa services, or additional excursions or alcohol. We offer an all-inlcusive alcohol plan of $15.00 US a day.
Q. WHAT IF I HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY?
We source out and establish relationships with the best doctors, dentists and hospitals in the area to ensure that if you do need medical attention for any reason, you will be in safe hands.
Q. DO WE HAVE INTERNET ACCESS?
If you bring your own laptop with wireless card, we do have wireless available.
Internet cafes are also scattered throughout the town
Q. DO CELL PHONES WORK IN CARTAGENA?
Yes, some US and European carriers do work in Colombia, but not all of them. Please check with your specific carrier prior to arrival to make sure. You will need to make sure you are set up for international roaming by your service provider in advance as well.
Q: HOW CAN I SETTLE MY BILL WHEN I DEPART?
Cash (Colombian Pesos & US dollars), Traveler's Cheques and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and American Express) are accepted. A 5% service charge will be added to all bills paid by credit card. This service fee only applies to your incidentals bill, not to your registration payment.
Q. DO I NEED TO RENT A CAR?
Definitly not. We take you to all the 'must see' locations, most of which are in walking distance from your home for the week in Cartagena, since we will be staying within the colonial city walls. Taxi's are readily available should you need them.
Q. DO I NEED A PASSPORT?
Yes, you will need a valid passport- unless you are a Colombian citizen.
Passengers leaving Colombia on International flights are charged a boarding tax which is sometimes not incuded in their plane ticket. The amount is $28 US and can be paid in local currency at the airport.
Q. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO GET THERE?
Cartagena is getting a lot of attention these days and quickly becoming a "must see destination". We recommend booking flights early to lock in the best rates. Avianca is a wonderful airline, with direct flights from Miami. Spirit Air is an efficant low cost airline that flies direct from Ft. Lauderdale. Copa, Continental, Aero Republica also fly into Cartagena.
Q. WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
While we cannot predict the weather, it is usually sunny and warm (80 + F). While we cannot predict the occassional rainfall, the temperature is between 75-88 degrees (F) year-round in Cartagena, and almost always sunny. The evenings are typically just as warm.
See www.wunderground.com for current forecasts.
Q. WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF YOUR GUESTS?
Our guests range in age as well as fitness levels. On average, our guests are between 35-50, but we do attract younger and older guests as well. As long as you are open to traveling, meeting new people, experiencing new cultures, exercising and sleeping/dining in luxury, ESCAPE TO SHAPE is for you!
Q. WHAT TO BRING?
You can be as casual or as formal as you like. Remember, every day will include exercise classes, and dinner around Cartagena or in the private home.
A few things NOT to forget:
- Valid passport
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Workout clothes
- Comforatable clothes for a warm, tropical climate
- A few sweaters in case the air conditioning or fans are too strong for your body temperature
- A hat to protect you from the sun while walking
- Personal toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Bathing suit/cover up
- Camera
- Convertors for outlets - only if coming from Europe. Colombia operates on the same system as the US.
