I just returned from the Cartagena escape over Thanksgiving week and it was everything I expected and more! Erica and staff were extremely professional and so gracious. They were always asking me if I needed anything and if I was enjoying myself. They offered to help walk me to shops and ATM when I didn’t know where it was and just went above and beyond. Everything from the meals to activities were perfectly planned and flawlessly executed and I didn’t have to worry about a thing. The private villa was just to die for and granted, I have stayed in a number of very nice houses before. The courtyard with pool, waterfall, and fountain was just beautiful. It was huge and if you just wanted to find a quiet spot to relax you could. Definitely made a perfect choice here. The food was healthy yet delicious but portion sizes were definitely smaller than what I was used to but it ended up being ok. I think most Americans are used to too large portion sizes and I found that it was actually enough to fill me up without overstuffing. This was the first vacation where I didn’t go home feeling like I gained weight but rather left feeling more toned and healthy. I love how laid back it is and there is no pressure to participate in anything you don’t want to, unlike some other retreats I looked into who don’t like guests to use phones or computers and have mandatory activities. I also liked how there is not only yoga but also walks and sculpting classes. The whole vibe is more luxurious and relaxing than new age/hippie, which was exactly what I was looking for. I would recommend this especially if you are travelling by yourself and don’t want to deal with the stress and hassles. Being a young solo woman who doesn’t speak any Spanish I would never have travelled to Columbia by myself but Escape to Shape allowed me to do it. It would also be great with a girlfriend. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and will definitely be planning another trip with them!
