Welcome to the 2024 Writing Retreat
​Guest Portal!

 Here you'll find all the info you need about our five nights in Mexico! Please read through it all, even if it's a topic you're already familiar with--and of course, let us know if you have any questions!

Health-related travel policies: We will keep you up to date (both here and via email) on the policies and procedures regarding health-related travel policies in Mexico at the time of our trip. Currently (as of January 15, 2024), there are no testing or vaccination requirements for entry. Regardless, we strongly recommend being fully vaccinated against Covid (including boosters) before any international travel.

Where and When:

Catalonia Royal Tulum Resort, Xpu Há, Mexico
March 10 - 15, 2024

5 nights in Xpu Há, Mexico, at Catalonia Royal Tulum Resort

Catalonia Royal Tulum Resort

Address: Km. 264,5 Chetumal, Carr. Cancún - Tulum, 77790 Xpu Ha, Q.R., Mexico
Phone: +52 984 875 1800

This beautiful all-inclusive, adults-only resort sits in a lush jungle environment on the Caribbean Sea. About an hour from Cancun Airport, Catalonia Royal Tulum has many restaurants and bars, a spa, a gorgeous pool and jacuzzi, and of course, stunning beach access. 

Schedule

Your Daily Itinerary

In general, expect lots of free time to write, plus optional activities like happy hours, writing-related open discussion times, group dinners, and more. 

Writing

You'll have a one-on-one meeting with Julie or Jessica to discuss your writing. Here you can upload a query letter and/or first few pages in advance (you can choose which one, or upload both). You'll also see an option to share your work with the group, for anyone interested.

Upload your work here!

Information and Frequently Asked Questions

Traveling to Mexico

Must-do items before you go! 

• Make sure your passport is valid for the dates of the retreat.
• Pay the tourism Visitax and download the QR code voucher to your phone at visitax.gob.mx/sitio/. This tourist tax of approximately $20 USD per person (depending on the exchange rate) is specific to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo--where Catalonia Royal Tulum is located--to help cover the costs of maintaining this oft-visited area. Proof of payment is required upon your departure from Mexico, so if you aren't able to do this before the retreat, no worries--it can be done during your time at the resort.​

​Important flight scheduling notes

• Our activities begin on the evening of March 10, 2024. Most of you will be arriving by midday, so unless your flight is delayed, you shouldn't miss anything!
• If there are any changes made to your flight itinerary, please share them with us so we can keep track of everyone's arrival.
• REMEMBER THE TIME CHANGE! Most of the U.S. will be moving clocks one hour ahead in the early morning hours of March 10, so be sure to account for this.  

What should I expect on my flight?

• Arrive at the airport early! Plan to get to the airport a minimum of 2 hours before scheduled take-off, though arriving even 3 hours prior to an international departure is a good idea.
• For longer flights, be sure to get up and move around at least once or twice during the flight.
• During the flight, if you need a glass of water or something similar, just ask! One of the keys to comfortable long-distance travel is to avoid dehydration.

I have a disability or condition that may make getting through airport security more difficult. What should I do? 

​Consider reaching out in advance to TSA Cares. TSA Cares is a helpline that provides travelers with disabilities, medical conditions and other special circumstances additional assistance during the security screening process. You can call (855) 787-2227 when you are 72 hours from your flight, or fill out this form in advance. Read more about it here.

​Once my flight arrives in Mexico, what are my next steps?

• Once you deplane, you will be directed to (or choose) one of 2 options for going through immigration (option 2 is available in some terminals only)
• ​Option 1: The normal immigration lines where you will speak to an agent, and have your passport stamped. Please keep your physical or digital boarding pass until you clear immigration in case it is needed. 
• Option 2: The electronic passport control machines. If you go through these machines, please enter and scan your passport. Wait for your photo to be taken and collect your receipt with the QR code. Make sure to retain your receipt as you may be asked for this upon departure from Mexico.
• After immigration, you will enter the baggage claim area, then pass through Customs. You may be randomly selected to have your bags checked--don't worry if this happens.
• There is an ATM in the airport if you'd like to get some pesos. (More details on money are in a later section.)

How do I find my driver and get to the resort?

• Once you proceed out of the secured baggage area, the hallway is full of people who are trying to sell you transfers and timeshares. Just keep walking and ignore everyone inside the building. THESE ARE NOT YOUR PEOPLE. 
• ​Do not stop and talk to anyone INSIDE the airport. YOUR PEOPLE ARE OUTSIDE! 
• We have all of your arrangements made and paid for already. DO NOT STOP UNTIL YOU ARE OUTSIDE! 

• ​Can you tell we are intense about this? Well, the timeshare salespeople inside the airport are intense, too, and we don't want anyone accidentally getting a ride with the wrong group and ending up in an hours-long timeshare presentation. We are including a map of Cancun Airport below to help.
• Once outside, you'll see a number of transit companies. Look for Nexus Tours, in their signature orange shirts and straw hats (see the picture below). You'll check in with Nexus staff, and they'll call your driver. There may be a short wait, depending on how many other people are arriving at the same time. 
• The ride from Cancun Airport to Catalonia Royal Tulum Resort is typically just over an hour.

Packing Advice

What are typical airline luggage rules? 

• Airlines typically allow one small carry-on bag and one personal item such as a purse or backpack (these have their own weight and size limits, depending on the airline).
• In standard economy seats, for flights to Mexico, airlines typically charge for checked bags, and if they weigh more than 50 lbs will charge an additional fee on top of that. That said, check the rules for whichever airline you’re flying.
• The 3-1-1 liquid rule: In your carry-on, you will only be allowed to bring ONE baggie that is ONE quart (or liter) or smaller in size, containing liquid containers each no bigger than THREE ounces. (There is no liquid restriction for your checked bag.)
• Cancun Airport is likely to be very busy. If you have a checked bag (rather than just a carry-on), there may be a long wait to get your suitcase at baggage claim.

I take medication. How should I pack it?

Keep your medications in your carry-on bag, just in case something were to happen to your checked bag on the flight. Also be sure to know the generic name of your medications, in case you were to lose your medication and need to get more in Mexico, where the brand names might differ. 

If you take a medication that is a liquid in an amount greater than three ounces, you can apply for an exemption from the 3-1-1 liquid rule mentioned above. Read more about that exemption process here.​

What is the typical weather?

The average high temperature in Xpu Há is in the mid-80’s in March, with lows in the lower 70’s. Rain is uncommon but, of course, possible during the time of the retreat.​

What should I consider when packing clothing?

• Presuming you'll want to spend some time in the pool or on the beach, make sure to bring a bathing suit!
• Some restaurants will have a dress code, which typically means nicer clothes than what you're wearing to the pool (for example, Liz will be wearing a summer dress with nice sandals rather than flip-flops, and Adam will be wearing a polo shirt and nice jeans).
• You may want to pack a sweater or light jacket in case of an unusually chilly evening, for example. 

Is there anything else I should know about packing? ​

• As always, the advice in travel is to pack light, pack light, pack light.

Resort Information

What is the dining situation at the resort?

• Catalonia Royal Tulum has a variety of restaurants and bars, nearly all of which are part of the resort's all-inclusive package. (There are a few exceptions -- you can order premium bottles of wine for an additional charge, for example, or attend a dinner show production, which also involves an extra cost. You may also want to buy a particular grocery item from an on-site market or gift shop at the resort. But for the most part, food and drink at the resort's restaurants and bars, and even the minibar in your room, are included in your package.)
• Keep in mind that your "Privileged" category room allows you to access the BLoved restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a beautiful beachside location. 
• There are several restaurants other than BLoved at the resort, which offer a variety of different cuisines, although some are only open for one or two meals per day. Some feature buffet dining, while others have table service. For dining at table service restaurants, particularly for dinner, reservations are recommended. (Reservations are not required weeks or even days in advance; there will be information about reservations available at the resort.)
• Each restaurant may have a dress code, which can vary depending on the meal being served. Most commonly, restaurants may prohibit sleeveless shirts, shorts, or flip-flops (in other words, they do not allow guests to eat in their swimwear or beachwear). Specific information about dress codes at each restaurant is available at the resort. Enforcement of dress codes may be lax, but even so, it's a good idea to bring at least a short-sleeved shirt, a skirt or pants, and shoes that you would not wear on the beach, just in case a restaurant where you'd like to eat is strictly enforcing its dress code. 
• You can also order food via Room Service  - also part of the all-inclusive package.

​​

What activities are available at the resort?

The following activities are available for no additional cost:

• Fitness Center
• Table tennis
• Water polo
• Beach volleyball and football
• ​Darts
• Aerobics and water aerobics
• Dancing lessons
• Canoes and kayaks
• ​Paddle boards
• Snorkeling
  
  

Scuba-diving and spa services are available for an additional cost. 

What is included with our "Privileged" room category?

"Privileged" category rooms have either a king or two queen beds, a terrace or balcony, and a complimentary minibar replenished daily with water, soft drinks, beer, and snacks. 

Being in the "Privileged" category of rooms includes access to the resort's BLoved restaurant. "Privileged" category guests also can enjoy an exclusive section of the beach with snacks and drink services, as well as a 10% discount on spa services.

What money issues I should be aware of?

• The current exchange rate between pesos and U.S. dollars is approximately 17 pesos = $1 USD
• Before departure, notify your bank(s) that you may be using their debit/credit cards in Mexico in order to help avoid having your cards being locked for fraud alerts when you start using them in Mexico. (Some banks do not ask you to notify them of travel plans, but many still do.)
• Your debit and/or credit cards may charge a Foreign Transaction Fee; check with your bank(s) before departure to learn of their policies and fees for foreign transactions.
• ATMs can be found in airport terminals upon arrival at Cancun Airport as well as at the resort (ATM menus allow you to conduct transactions easily in English).
• You can also request pesos from your local bank before you go (but don't leave it till the last minute, as some banks have to order foreign currency, rather than keeping it on hand).

Should I tip? How much? ​

• While tipping is not required, it is appreciated, and can really make a difference to resort staff. US dollars and Mexican pesos are both accepted and appreciated for tips. If you do plan to leave the resort for any meals, shopping, or excursions, we recommend using pesos, as US dollars may not be accepted. The most useful denominations will be $1, $5, and $10 bills if using USD, or $20, $50, $100, and $200 bills if using pesos. 
• Note that our retreat will include two group happy hours and two group dinners; tipping for the entire group will be covered by Leaping Hound Travel at those events.
• Current suggested tip amounts from Lori Gold, owner of Explore More Mexico:
  • Bartenders: $2 USD per round
  • ​Waitstaff at table service meals: $3 USD per guest
  • Waitstaff at buffet meals: $2 USD per guest
  • Luggage handlers: $2 USD per bag
  • Drivers: $5-$10 USD per person
  • Room Service delivery staff: $5-$10 USD per order
  • Housekeeping staff: $5 USD per day (leave on pillow with "housekeeping" written on a piece of paper)

Is there a local tax that must be paid at the resort?

Yes. As with many hotels and resorts in various parts of the world, there is a small tax that can only be paid at the resort. The state of Quintana Roo requires the collection of an Environmental Sanitation Fee charged to guests upon check-in or check-out. Depending on the precise exchange rate, it is typically around $2 USD per room per night. So, again, a small tax, but something to be aware of. 

What is the time zone of the resort?

The state of Quintana Roo is on Eastern Standard Time, but Mexico does not move its clocks during the year. So although the resort is on the same time as, for example, New York and Atlanta during the winter, once the U.S. moves to Daylight Savings Time in the early morning hours of March 10, the time in Xpu Há will be equivalent to U.S. Central Daylight Time. (That is, for the duration of the retreat, it will be the same time at the resort as it is in Chicago.)

Electronics

Will I be able to use my cell phone while abroad?

• Most likely, your cell phone will not simply work as normal upon your arrival in Mexico. Check with your cell phone provider in advance about their international use, as cost and the amount of data provided varies wildly between providers.
• Since the resort has wifi, you may not need data, and could use wifi only. With services like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, you can make calls easily. It's your choice!
• If your provider makes it prohibitively expensive to use your phone abroad, one option is to buy a SIM card to use in your phone when you arrive. We find it’s easier to purchase them in advance. You can find them for purchase on Amazon and other places—just search “SIM Mexico.” In order to use a different SIM, your phone must be unlocked. (Not sure? Ask your provider.)

What sort of electrical outlets are used in Mexico?

This is an easy one! Mexico uses the same outlets and same voltage as in the United States. No need for an adapter or converter. 

Health & Safety

How safe is Mexico?

While nowhere in the world can promise complete safety, the state of Quintana Roo has a "Level Two" travel advisory from the US State Department, which is the same safety rating as countries such as Denmark and Germany. 

What security measures should I take before leaving the U.S.?

Before departure, duplicate important documents--such as all bank cards you are bringing and your passport photo page--by emailing yourself photos of these items or by making photocopies to bring with you (to make it easier to cancel or replace items if any are lost).

What can I do to stay safe while traveling?

• Be aware of your belongings: wear purses crossbody-style, closed and zippered or latched; never keep wallets, phones, or any other important or valuable items in a back pocket; do not leave items unattended or out of sight in public places. 
• Monitor your open drinks in bars/restaurants, and do not accept open drinks from strangers. For your safety and security, it is advisable to avoid becoming overly intoxicated.
• If you are leaving the resort, the official guidance from the Mexican government is that you must bring your passport with you (rather than leaving it in a safe in your room, for example). 
• We recommend not carrying all of your cash and cards in one place while you’re out and about; you may choose to leave a debit or credit card secured in your hotel room, for example, in case your wallet or purse is lost.

A note about timeshares

• Do not let yourself get talked into a timeshare presentation against your will. As mentioned in the "travel to Mexico" section above, there are a number of timeshare salespeople at the airport who will be very friendly and outgoing, and try to get you into a conversation and offer you perks like a free massage if you listen to their presentation. These presentations are hours long with high-pressure sales techniques--not how you want to spend your free time in Mexico. 
• Catalonia Resorts also has what they call a "vacation club," but this is essentially also a timeshare (even if they say it is not). Again, you do not have to listen to any presentations or otherwise participate in anything related to timeshares. A polite but firm "no, thank you" or "no, gracias" is enough.

How can I best maintain my physical health while on the retreat?

• First of all, it is safe to drink the water on-site at the resort -- all water at the resort (including ice cubes and the water in your bathroom sink) is filtered and safe to drink.
• Speaking of water, please drink plenty of it! Staying hydrated is important, especially if you are out in the sun more than usual.
• Wear sunscreen, and reapply it often.
• It's not a bad idea to bring a few basic first-aid items (bandages in case of blisters, ibuprofen, antacids). We will have some we can share, but it's a good idea to have your own.
• If you have particular dietary requirements, we recommend checking in with restaurant waitstaff to let them know (at buffets, restaurant staff can help point you to your options). 

Have more questions? Just let us know! We're always happy to chat about trip details.

We can't wait to travel with you!
​-Liz & Adam