Ketanga Fitness Retreats
  • Retreats
  • About
    • Contact
    • Services
    • Testimonials
    • Past retreats
  • Host a Retreat
  • Blog

The Ketanga Blog: Travel Well

fitness • travel • fun • activities • events • wellness • tips • recipes

Fitness Retreat FAQs: What to Expect on a Ketanga Trip

10/8/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
Curious about what a fitness retreat with Ketanga will be like? Read on for answers to the most common questions we receive!

​
If you've never traveled with a group before, it's natural to feel a bit unsure about the experience. Joining a fitness retreat with a bunch of strangers might seem intimidating, but many guests find that traveling with like-minded people brings a sense of community, connection and fun.

Since launching in 2014, we have received a lot of questions about our trips. So Stacy Schwartz, the founder and CEO of Ketanga, sat down to answer the most common ones for you. Still wondering about something? Feel free to email her any time at [email protected].

Picture

Q: "I've never traveled with a group before. What will that be like?

A: “Group travel can feel intimidating, but it often turns out to be one of the best parts of a fitness retreat! Everyone who signs up for a Ketanga retreat shares interests such being active, exploring the world and/or prioritizing wellness. You’ll have plenty of common ground with your fellow travelers, which makes it easy to connect and form friendships with people from all different backgrounds.”
​
Many people find a sense of camaraderie from day one. Whether you’re swapping stories over meals, motivating each other during a workout, or simply enjoying the sights together, there’s a bond that forms when you're on an adventure with a group of like-minded individuals. And if you happen to forget something, like a phone charger or nail clippers, there’s a good chance someone in the group has got you covered!

Picture

Q: "Will I have to be with the group or doing activities 24/7?"

A: “The beauty of a Ketanga retreat is its flexibility. While our retreats have plenty of planned activities, nothing is mandatory! We build in free time to every retreat, giving you time to space to do relax - with or without others from the group. But really, the trip is designed for you to do what you enjoy most, whether that’s participating in every fitness class and excursion, or taking extra time to lounge by the pool with a good book.”
​

You’ll have the opportunity to engage with the group when you want, and there’s also plenty of space for quiet, personal time. So, whether you're feeling social or prefer to have some more downtime, you can tailor your experience to your preferences. Remember, this is your vacation!

Picture

Q: "I don't have anyone to go with. Can I still have fun solo?"

A: “Absolutely! In fact, the majority of Ketanga guests come on retreats by themselves. The best part is they make come alone, but they never feel lonely. Traveling solo on a group retreat gives you the best of both worlds: the chance to have your own personal adventure while meeting new people and forming friendships along the way.”

You can opt for a single room for complete privacy or share with another solo traveler, giving you a built-in connection from the start. Either way, the shared experience of a retreat—whether it’s pushing through a tough workout or exploring new destinations—creates strong bonds among the group, making it easy to enjoy yourself even if you arrive alone.

Picture

Q: “Do I need to be super fit to keep up on a Ketanga Fitness Retreat?

A: “Our retreats are thoughtfully designed to accommodate guests with all kinds of fitness levels and backgrounds, from beginners to seasoned athletes! One of the things that makes our trips so special is that we partner with expert coaches who are skilled at tailoring workouts and offering modifications based on individual needs—whether that's adjusting for fitness levels, injuries, or preferences.” 
​

While our retreats are active by nature, we encourage you to carefully review the retreat description to make sure it aligns with your goals and abilities. And if you’re unsure, we’re always here to answer any questions and help you find the perfect fit!

Picture
At the core of every Ketanga Fitness Retreat is the perfect blend of fitness, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling with friends or embarking on a solo journey, group retreats offer a chance to connect with like-minded people while giving you the flexibility to do your own thing. From the camaraderie to the freedom to set your own pace, a Ketanga retreat offers the best of both worlds for any type of traveler.
​

So if you’ve been hesitant about joining a group retreat, know that you’re likely to find a supportive community, new friends and the adventure of a lifetime. Take a look at our upcoming Fitness Retreats and feel free to join our email list through the form below!

    Get our email newsletter to hear about new retreats and special offers!

Submit
0 Comments

The Power of Group Travel: Why traveling together makes every journey more rewarding

9/3/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
Have you ever traveled with friends who all want to do different things? Maybe they want to stay up partying when you'd rather wake up early and go for a run. Or perhaps they want to take a bus tour of a new city while you prefer to explore by bike.

We hear these stories again and again which is why we work so hard to build itineraries and programs that appeal to like-minded people and make everyone feel comfortable and supported.

At Ketanga Fitness Retreats, we believe that the best journeys are those shared with others. Whether you’re exploring new landscapes or pushing your fitness limits, there’s something truly magical about experiencing it all with others who have similar interests. This is the heart of what makes our retreats so special—the power of group travel. 

The Power of Group Travel

One of the standout features of our retreats is the strong sense of community that naturally forms among participants. When you travel with a group of people from all backgrounds who share your goals and interests (whether or not you've ever met them before), the journey becomes more than just a trip; it becomes a shared experience that fosters deep, lasting connections. These bonds often turn into lifelong friendships and a supportive network that extends far beyond the retreat itself. Let's break it down...
​

The Top 3 Benefits of Group Travel
​

  1. Shared Motivation and Support:
    There’s something incredibly motivating about cheering each other on during a challenging workout or tackling a new adventure like surfing or zip lining together. The mutual encouragement you receive from the group can push you to achieve more than you thought possible, making the experience even more rewarding.
    ​
  2. Deep Connections and Lasting Friendships:
    Traveling with like-minded individuals creates the perfect environment for forming deep connections with people you may otherwise never meet. The shared experiences and stories lead to lasting friendships and a strong support network that can continue long after the retreat ends.

  3. ​Balanced Independence with Community Comfort:
    One of the unique benefits of Ketanga Fitness Retreats is the balance we strike between solo exploration and the comfort of community. You have the freedom to embark on your own personal journey, yet you’re never alone. There is always free time to relax and if you feel like skipping an activity, that is A-OK! On the other hand, you have a built-in network of new friends to grab a bite with and borrow a charger from! This balance allows you to enjoy the independence of traveling solo while still being part of a supportive group.
​

Ready For Your Next Adventure?​
​

If you’re curious about how group travel can enhance your next adventure, we invite you to join us on one of our upcoming retreats. Experience firsthand the benefits of shared motivation, deep connections, and the perfect balance of independence and community. Create lasting memories and friendships that will enrich your travel experience and stay with you for a lifetime.

Take a look at our Upcoming Retreats or give us a follow on Instagram @ketanga_fitness and find the perfect adventure that calls to you. Let’s make memories, build friendships and embark on a journey of a lifetime—together!
0 Comments

How to set up a home gym in a small space / apartment

7/16/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
Whether you're trying to fit workouts into your busy WFH schedule, are looking to save some money on a gym membership or want to exercise in the comfort of your own space, having some key equipment at home will make it easy and convenient for you to get in your sweat sessions!

The best part is that you don't need an entire room dedicated to fitness to make a meaningful gym. While you can do tons of great workouts without any 'toys' just using your bodyweight or household items, investing in a few key pieces can help you reach your fitness and movement goals.
We've put together a list of some of our favorite apartment-friendly home gym must haves to build your space and have created an Amazon storefront here so you can easily add your favorites to your cart! 
Shop the home gym must haves on Amazon
We've split up our recos into four categories: The Basics, Organization, Accessories/Extras.
Picture

The Basics / Equipment

When building a gym, there are a few key items "the basics" that build a foundation and set you up for workout success:
  • A good yoga mat to use for floor exercises and stretching
  • Resistance bands (with a door stopper)
  • Dumbbells (at least 3 sets to start with): light, medium and heavy or an adjustabe set (more expensive, but takes up less space)
  • A versatile step + bench combo that can make your workouts more dynamic
  • Mini bands which are great for warming up and adding difficulty to workouts
  • Foam roller for recovery
  • A walking pad / under desk treadmill to get your steps in as you work or watch TV
View all!

Organization

Ok, you've got the basics, now where do you put everything? Keeping your gym equipment tidy, yet visible, will keep you motivated.
  • An organization cart specially designed for fitness equipment
  • Use the wall space with floating shelves or a rack
  • Cube storage with nice labels 
  • Dumbbell racks are helpful and space savers
  • Water bottle stacking storage
View all!

Accessories & Extras

Once you have the basics and a place to put everything, invest in some accessories that will enhance the workout experience:
  • Microfiber sweat towels
  • Portable speaker for playing music
  • Standing desk that is wide enough to fit over your walking pad
  • Portable TV that you can bring into the room to stream your workout or watch a show while you exercise
  • Mirror tiles to attach to the wall so you can check out your perfect form
  • Air Pods or other headphones (in case there are other people working from home)
  • Yoga mat / equipment cleaner
View all!

Shop the home gym must haves on Amazon
0 Comments

15 Travel Must-Haves for your Retreat

12/5/2023

0 Comments

 
Our 15 top travel products of the year have been announced! Whether purchasing for yourself or as a holiday gift for travel lovers, these items are some of our all-time favorites for retreats (or really for any kind of travel!)! They will simplify the travel day, ensure you feel fresh and clean on the go and keep your belongings organized throughout the trip!

​Click the image below to see them all, plus a few bonus picks! 
Picture

Our top recommended products to take on your next retreat:

  1. Foldable yoga mat and yoga towel that are super easy to pack for your retreat!
  2. Portable, insulated water bottle to stay cold in the tropical heat + bottle cleaning tabs when you don't have access to your kitchen sink!
  3. Mini backpack that is lightweight and perfect for day trips and excursions.
  4. The two-pocket travel cup holder for suitcases! This is a game changer in the airport.
  5. Waterproof shoe bags to keep the rest of your belongings clean and dry.
  6. Simple but often forgotten: sport sunscreen (travel size)! Stay protected during workouts and activities.
  7. Universal travel adapter to stay charged and connected wherever you go.
  8. This portable charger / battery pack is thin and easy to throw in your bag.
  9. There's nothing better than a good set of packing cubes to keep your clothes organized!
  10. The perfect fanny pack for hands-free activities with multiple pockets! (They're cool again, we promise!)
  11. Adjustable airplane stand for your phone so you can watch videos hands free!
  12. This cable and cord organizer keeps tangles away!
  13. Keep your straightener and curling iron safe with this travel bag and heat resistant mat.
  14. Individually-wrapped makeup removing wipes won't dry up and don't count as liquid in carry-on bags!
  15. Must-have on any retreat: laundry detergent packets for washing clothes in the sink!

View the full list here and comment below with your favorite travel product we may have missed!
0 Comments

10 Best Wellness-Focused Destinations for an Active Vacation in 2024

12/5/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
In 2024, as the world continues to redefine travel, there's a growing trend towards wellness-focused vacations that combine adventure with relaxation.

​If you're yearning for an active escape that nourishes your mind, body and soul, these 10 destinations are perfect for a unique and rejuvenating experience.

And If you're ready to pack your bags, check out the links below each description to learn about our upcoming fitness retreats in most of these locations!

1. Mallorca, Spain

Picture
Known for its stunning landscapes and Mediterranean charm, Mallorca offers more than just beautiful beaches. Explore the Tramuntana Mountains through hiking or cycling, unwind on a sailboat on the clear water and immerse yourself in the island's fresh cuisine.

Join us in Mallorca:
Fitness, Food & Fun | May 16-21, 2024

2. Coastal Portugal

Picture
The Portuguese gems of Cascais and Sintra provide a perfect blend of coastal charm and mystical forests. Engage in wellness activities like trail running, surf lessons and biking, or discover the enchanting Palácio da Pena in Sintra and recharge in luxurious spas overlooking the Atlantic.

Join us in Portugal: 
​
Adventures in Portugal | September 24-29, 2024

3. Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Picture
For those seeking an active escape in a tropical paradise, Tamarindo is a haven! Surf the Pacific waves, partake in beachfront yoga sessions, and explore the nearby Rincon de la Vieja National Park for hiking and hot springs. This vibrant town offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Join us in Tamarindo: 
​
Culture & Movement in Costa Rica | March 20-24, 2024

4. Iceland

Picture
Renowned for its dramatic landscapes and unique natural wonders, Iceland beckons wellness enthusiasts with its geothermal hot springs, glacier hikes and refreshing outdoor activities. Experience the healing powers of the Blue Lagoon, meditate amidst breathtaking waterfalls and embrace the country's wellness culture.

Join us In Iceland: 
​
Adventures in Iceland | August 22-26, 2024

5. Split and Hvar, Croatia

Picture
Croatia's coastal jewels, Split and Hvar, blend ancient history with vibrant island life. Enjoy hiking, sailing and beach activities against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. Explore Split's Diocletian's Palace, and savor local delicacies for a holistic experience!

Join us in Croatia: 
​
Adventures in Croatia | May 23-29, 2024

6. Vermont, USA

Picture
Escape to the serene landscapes of Vermont any time of year for action and adventure. Engage in outdoor activities like skiing, snow-shoeing and hiking, pamper yourself at luxurious spas, and savor farm-to-table cuisine and local brews. Vermont's natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Join us in Vermont: 
Block Therapy Retreat | March 21-24
Yoga & Fitness Retreat | July 11-14, 2024 and September 13-16, 2024

7. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Picture
Nestled among volcanoes and indigenous villages, Lake Atitlan offers a tranquil escape. Enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding on the lake, explore local Mayan markets and embark on a variety of stunning nature hikes. This Guatemalan gem is a sanctuary for those seeking a wellness-focused adventure.

Join us in Guatemala:
Guatemala Women's Retreat | May 7-12, 2024

8. Baja California, Mexico

Picture
Baja beckons with its golden deserts and pristine coastlines. Visitors can engage in beachfront yoga, paddle boarding in the Sea of Cortez and exploring the vibrant marine life. Baja's laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty create an idyllic setting for rejuvenation.

Join us in Baja:
Baja Bliss Yoga Retreat | April 1-6, 2024

9. Cercal, Portugal

Picture
Discover the serene beauty of Cercal in Portugal, where wellness and nature converge. While the town is on a hill, it is a short drive from stunning beaches, allowing for wellness activities of all kinds! Explore the Alentejo countryside on hiking trails, and embrace the laid-back lifestyle of this charming village. Cercal provides an off-the-beaten-path escape for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation.

Join us in Cercal, Portugal:
Move Your Body Retreat | June 22-28, 2024

10. Cape Town, South Africa

Picture
Cape Town combines stunning landscapes with a rich cultural tapestry. Engage in wellness activities against the backdrop of Table Mountain, explore the Cape of Good Hope, and discover the city's vibrant arts and culinary scene. Some adventurous highlights in Cape Town include safari day trips, kayaking and beautiful hiking.

As we venture into 2024, these 10 wellness-focused destinations offer the perfect blend of activity, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Whether you're drawn to the coastal allure of Portugal, the mystical landscapes of Iceland, or the tranquility of Lake Atitlan, each destination on this list promises a unique and revitalizing experience. Embark on a journey that nourishes your well-being and leaves you with memories of a truly transformative vacation!

Be sure to check out all of our 2024 fitness and wellness adventures!

0 Comments
<<Previous
Forward>>
About Ketanga
About
Contact

FAQ
Services
Partners
Host a retreat
Partnership / PR
​Corporate Wellness & Retreats
​
Press
Misc.
Privacy

T&C
Travel insurance
Travel agents
​
​Blog
Check out Ketanga Fitness Retreats on Yelp

© 2026 Ketanga Fitness Retreats, LLC  All rights reserved. By signing up for a retreat, you (and any guests you register for) are agreeing to the Ketanga Terms & Conditions.
Photo from Kirt Edblom
  • Retreats
  • About
    • Contact
    • Services
    • Testimonials
    • Past retreats
  • Host a Retreat
  • Blog