Retreats can be a powerful way to step outside your routine, reconnect with your passion, and invest in yourself. Whether you’re a retreat leader, movement coach, aerialist, or just someone seeking an immersive experience, picking the right retreat is a science and an art.
But with so many options available, how do you know which retreat is the best fit for you?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider—so you can confidently choose a retreat that aligns with your goals, energy, and expectations.
1. Get Clear on Your Purpose
Before you start browsing retreat options, ask yourself:
- What do I want to get out of this experience?
- What type of transformation am I looking for?
- Am I going for skill-building, relaxation, networking, or something else?
Different retreats serve different purposes. Some are designed for deep rest and healing, while others focus on intensive skill training, professional growth, or artistic development.
Examples of Retreat Goals:
✔ Aerialists & Movement Artists: Training, performance mindset, portfolio-building
✔ Business Owners & Coaches: Expanding your brand, networking, content creation
✔ Adventure Seekers: Exploring new landscapes, pushing physical limits, trying new experiences
✔ Wellness & Lifestyle Enthusiasts: Slowing down, self-care, creative immersion
Choosing a retreat that matches your goals will ensure you get the most out of the experience.
2. Consider the Location & Environment
Where you go can impact your overall experience just as much as the retreat itself. Do you want a tropical beach? A secluded mountain retreat? A cultural city experience?
Questions to Ask:
📍 Does the location inspire me? (Will this environment fuel my creativity and energy?)
🛫 How accessible is it? (Am I comfortable with long flights or remote destinations?)
🌡 What’s the climate like? (Will extreme weather impact my experience?)
🏡 Is the retreat space aligned with what I need? (Luxury villa, rustic eco-lodge, boutique hotel?)
For example, the Escape Artist Retreat in Portugal offers a coastal landscape with dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and open-air movement spaces. This is perfect for aerialists looking for epic photoshoot settings and an inspiring natural backdrop.
3. Look at the Retreat Structure & Schedule
Every retreat has a different flow. Some are high-energy and packed with activities, while others are laid-back and flexible.
Consider Your Ideal Balance:
✔ Do you want an intensive, structured experience? (e.g., daily aerial training + workshops)
✔ Would you rather have a mix of learning and relaxation? (e.g., movement + free time to explore)
✔ Are there additional experiences included? (e.g., excursions, photoshoots, wellness activities)
A well-balanced retreat should allow you to fully immerse in the experience without burnout.
Example: Escape Artist Retreat balances professional aerial training + cinematic content creation + time to explore Portugal. If you’re looking for aerial + adventure + high-quality photos & videos, it’s an ideal fit.
4. Who’s Leading the Retreat?
The retreat leader sets the tone for the entire experience. Look for hosts who:
✔ Have expertise & experience in their field
✔ Align with your energy & values
✔ Have strong testimonials & past retreat success
If you’re a retreat leader yourself, attending a well-run retreat can give you insight into how to design your own—from scheduling to group dynamics to marketing.
Example: Our creative retreat for aerialists, Escape Artist is hosted by Lexis Potter (aerial coach) and Lindsey Franzke (filmmaker & photographer). Together, they offer a unique blend of movement training, creative immersion, and professional-quality content creation.
If you’re an aerialist, performer, or movement artist, choosing a retreat with leaders who understand your craftensures a more meaningful and tailored experience.
5. What’s Included in the Price?
Some retreats are all-inclusive, while others have add-on costs for things like excursions, private coaching, or content creation.
Before You Book, Ask:
💰 What’s included? (Meals, housing, activities, training, excursions?)
📸 Is photography or video content included? (If you want portfolio shots, this is key.)
🛏 What are the accommodations like? (Shared vs. private rooms, luxury vs. rustic.)
🚗 Are transportation costs covered? (Airport transfers, local travel?)
A higher price tag isn’t always a bad thing—it often means more is included. But not always. Make sure you do your due diligence and understand exactly what value you’re getting for your investment.
6. Who Else is Attending? (Finding the Right Group Energy)
The retreat group dynamic matters more than you think. The right mix of people can create a powerful, inspiring, and supportive environment.
How to Find the Right Energy Fit:
✔ Check the retreat website—who is this designed for?
✔ Ask the retreat host about past attendees—is this for professionals, hobbyists, or a mix?
✔ Look at testimonials or videos—do the people seem like your vibe?
Some retreats are tight-knit & community-focused, while others may attract a mix of skill levels & personalities.
For example, Escape Artist curates an intimate group experience, so attendees leave with new friendships, creative inspiration, and high-level aerial content.
7. Trust Your Gut & Make the Decision
At some point, you just have to take the leap. If a retreat excites you, aligns with your goals, and feels like the right energy fit—go for it.
✔ If you’re looking for a transformational aerial retreat with professional content creation, Escape Artist is the perfect blend of movement, artistry, and adventure.
✔ If you’re a retreat leader or business owner, attending a well-run, immersive retreat can help you refine your own offerings.
There’s no “perfect” choice—just the right one for you. Right here, right now. 😉
Join Us for Escape Artist in Portugal!
Still looking for a movement-based retreat that blends creativity, training, and cinematic content?
📍 Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
📅 August 30 – September 6, 2025
✔ Daily aerial training + community hangs
✔ Exclusive photoshoots in breathtaking locations
✔ Professional video content for your portfolio
✔ A high-energy yet relaxed group environment
Spots are limited—secure yours today!
