Beneath the Surface:
Exploring Your Inner World Through Art

What should I bring?

Whatever you need that can be packed in a medium sized suitcase with wheels.  Include clothing, personal items, prescriptions, small purse inside a larger purse or backpack, credit card, some cash, camera and PASSPORT.  Pack LIGHT. You'll want to go shopping!

What should I wear?

Casual resort type clothing. It is convenient to mix and match clothing and wear them several days. There are no laundry facilities available, so washing items in the sink can get tiresome and drying times are different due to the humidity.

What clothing should I pack?

Capris, shorts, swimwear, sleepwear, sandals, dresses or skirts, comfortable walking shoes, a light sweater or jacket.  Layer clothing. Hat, scarves and belts are good accessories to bring. Leave expensive jewelry at home.

What else should I pack?

Pack your own toiletries in small bottles.  Remember your sunscreen, lip balm, medications and vitamins, diarrhea medicine, and pain reliever. Also, hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes are useful. Sleep aid or sleeping pills. Antibiotic (prescribed by your doctor, in case of illness.)

What size suitcase should I bring?

A medium sized suitcase, NOT a big suitcase. MUST be less than 50 pounds.  Pack LIGHT, you will need space for souvenirs, clothes, oil, wine, etc.  LESS is BEST!

Will someone help me with my luggage?

No, what you pack, you must be able to carry - through airports, up and down paths and sometimes stairs.

How much money should I take?

Whatever you will need for snacks, meals on your own time, drinks, and souvenirs.

Will I be able to buy snacks, water, etc.?

Yes, there are usually markets nearby.

What cultural customs should I be aware of in Mexico?

Mexicans are known for their warm hospitality and politeness. A friendly greeting and a simple “buenos días” (good morning) or “buenas tardes” (good afternoon) are always appreciated.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Mexico?

It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in Mexico. Bottled water is widely available and is provided during the retreat to ensure you stay hydrated.

What is the traditional cuisine like, and what should I try?

Mexican cuisine is diverse and vibrant, featuring fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices. Be sure to try local dishes like tacos, tamales, mole, and fresh seafood. Each region has its own specialties, and local markets are great places to experience authentic flavors.

Do I need to know Spanish?

While many people in tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals. Simple greetings and polite phrases show respect for the culture and make communication easier.

Is it customary to tip in Mexico?

Yes, tipping is common in Mexico and generally appreciated. In restaurants, a tip of around 10–15% is standard. You may also want to tip hotel staff, guides, and other service providers who assist you during your stay.

Which airport do I fly into?

You should get two separate tickets. One from your location to Mexico City on any international airline, and then a second ticket from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca on AeroBus, Volaris, or Aeroméxico.

We will have pickups scheduled at 1:30 PM and 7:30 PM. To catch one of these rides, please plan your arrival for a time before these options. If you arrive later than 7:30 PM, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the house.

Can I book my own accommodation elsewhere and still attend the daily art experiences?

No, this is not an option for the Milan Art Retreats.

What if I get sick?

If you need a doctor, our guides will assist you in finding one, but the cost of care is paid up front and you must bill your own insurance when you get home.

What if I get jet lag?

Everyone experiences “jet lag” to a certain extent. We recommend that you bring a sleep aid or sleeping pills for the first couple of nights while your internal clock adjusts to the new time zone.

What if I want a beer or a glass of wine?

That is acceptable.n Drinking is usually contained to one or two glasses and only with a meal. This tour is NOT a “party” tour and we will not have excessive drinking and drunkenness, for liability reasons and for the consideration and enjoyment of other travelers.

Will there be free time?

Yes, there will be free time every day, where you can go out on your own, or stay back and relax.

Can I bring someone with me who isn't an artist? What if I'm not an artist but I want to go a retreat with you?

Of course! Anyone from anywhere is able to join us. Whether you're a beginner, hobby artist, or experienced all of our art lessons will be beneficial and inspiring. If you or your spouse/friend isn't an artist, thats ok too! They can skip any of the art classes (although we encourage them to have fun and be a part of them anyways!)

What will the art workshops be like on this trip?

Art will be integrated into all aspects of the trip. You will create many pieces of artwork throughout this magical experience. We will teach mixed media techniques, drawing, collage, and photography for future projects. There will be many chances for sharing artwork and constructive critiques. We will have classes where we are staying as well as during excursions. The art journaling that you do on this trip will contribute to your future masterpieces!

Do I have to bring my own supplies?

No, we will provide all the supplies you will need; however, a favorite set of pens, brushes or pencils is encouraged. You can bring anything else you want! This is YOUR trip.

Is food included in this retreat?

Yes, three meals a day are included throughout the retreat. Bottled water is also provided, but any additional snacks or beverages can be purchased at your own expense.

Will I need to rent a car?

Transportation to and from the airport is provided as well as for the excursions, so you don’t need to rent a car.

Be Considerate. 

While on a retreat with the Milan’s, you will be working with others as a team and will be seen by others as representatives of Milan Art Institute. Please always be considerate of how your actions or contribution affects your team.

Be Respectful. 

Treat all individuals with a sense of dignity, respect, and worth.  Make a personal commitment to be non-judgmental about cultural differences, living conditions and the lifestyle of each person you encounter.  Avoid profane and abusive language and disruptive behavior that is dangerous to yourself and others. Always have proper identification on you. All items of clothing must be suitable for the cultural environment and should not contain offensive or objectionable material. If you use tobacco, please be respectful of those around you and smoking on the bus/van will NOT be tolerated.

Be Collaborative. 

When you are unsure, ask for help. Nobody knows everything and nobody is expected to be perfect. Asking questions avoids many problems down the road, so questions are encouraged. Try to be helpful so that everyone is on the same page.

Be Available.

Each of the Milan Art Retreats are carefully planned out in accordance with the activities for the day and the number of people on the trip; therefore, it is important for the entire team that you are on time and available for team activities. You always have the option to stay back or venture out on your own, but in this case, you will be solely responsible for your own food and travel provisions. We will not reimburse you for any activities or meals missed.

Be Safe. 

We are traveling into a foreign country and it is imperative that you always pay attention to the instructions of the team leaders. While unsafe conditions are not anticipated, be sure to always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to safeguard your personal items. Do not go off on your own. It is important that Milan Art Trip team members always know where each participant is at. There will be plenty of time for relaxing, shopping, and enjoying the country. Finally, do not use, possess, or be under the influence of illegal drugs at any time during the trip. Use of alcohol is not prohibited, but do not be under the influence of alcohol during the trip (no drunkenness).

Be Positive.

This is the trip of a lifetime! But inevitably there will be moments in which you might feel uncomfortable due to the exploration of a foreign land, sometimes one may experience “culture shock” and this is normal. We ask that you be conscious of your attitude because it will affect the others on the trip. It's essential to communicate your discomforts to a team leader rather than a fellow travel so that we can help you and try to mitigate your frustrations. Our goal is to help you have the best experience possible and communication is essential.

Is airfare included?

No, you will need to purchase your own plane ticket that arrives and departs within the time frames that we provide for pickup/drop off. We will be responsible for all your transportation, including to and from airports. You will need to fly into the Puerto Escondido International Airport.

We will have pickups scheduled at 1:30 PM and 7:30 PM. To catch one of these rides, please plan your arrival for a time before these options. If you arrive later than 7:30 PM, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the house.

When booking your flight times to go home, you will have two options for being dropped off at the airport: 6:00am, and 1:00pm.

It is VERY IMPORTANT that you book your flights accordingly. If you know someone coming on the trip, we recommend that you arrange to travel together.

What do I do if I unexpectedly have to cancel the trip? Can I get a refund?

We treat each case fairly, please send us an email explaining your situation. It can be transferable towards another trip in the future or another person that either you know or someone that is on our waiting list can go to your place. We do not do refunds if you simply change your mind.

You cannot receive a refund one and a half month’s prior to your trip, this is because most of our expenses are paid upfront.