Testimonials

What people are saying about the Retreat:

“This was the perfect getaway.  Everything — from the food, to the surfing lessons, to the yoga, to the mansion, to the amazing people on the trip — was beyond anything that I could have wished for.  For anyone looking for a much needed and one of a kind vacation — this is it!”
Erika E.
Washington D.C.


 ”It is rare that ones’ expectations are surpassed by the reality and my time with Three Jewels is one of the only experiences I can recall in my travels where I experienced just that. It was better than the pictures, the house more beautiful, the food more tantalizing and the surf more …. epic. My trip will not be soon forgotten and I long to return to the lovely atmosphere that Punta Mita, the staff and the creators of the Three Jewels Retreats helped create. Muchos Gracias.”
Lisa W.
Newport, R.I.


 “This retreat was exactly what I needed — an escape to a tropical paradise filled with fun people, delicious food and a great mix of physical activities.  Three Jewels Retreat  is beyond gorgeous and Karla’s cooking was perfection.  I was hesitant about going on a trip like this alone, not knowing who else would be at the retreat, but I could not have been happier with the mix of people and personalities.  I’m already scheming about how I can do it all over again!”
Lissa R.
Madison, Wisconsin


“2009 was my 7th year taking a holiday to Mexico, and the Three Jewels Retreat was spectacular, every detail was perfect! The accommodations were outstanding, with a secluded and relaxing beachfront setting. The staff was very professional and the local fresh food was amazing. It was a very relaxing holiday and I feel recharged and am looking forward to go back next year.“
Ward B.
Boulder, Colorado


“The Three Jewels Retreat is just that… a RETREAT from the stress and busy-ness of daily life, an oasis of tranquility and gracious hospitality that envelops you from the moment you arrive.  You cannot help but be rejuvenated, restored and completely relaxed by the time you leave…although you’ll want to stay forever!!  Huge thanks to John, Karla & Enrique for making the retreat so special…the degree of care taken in every aspect of the experience is tremendous.”
Sarah L.
Boston, Massachusetts


“ThreeJewels Retreat was an incredible experience. My friends and I really didn’t know what to  expect but when we arrived we were completely shocked and in awe of the incredibly gorgeous villa, delicious food, and warm hospitality and service. Our room was perfect, the yoga was challenging and rejuvenating and the surfing was so much fun. From the minute we got there we were relaxed and happy. Every aspect of the trip was perfect – it’s hard to even put in words how wonderful the experience was – you just need to go!”
Melissa B.
New York City, N.Y.


“Three Jewels was pure nourishment and bliss! I came back refreshed and rejuvenated, body and soul. I can’t wait to go back!
Marlo H.
Los Angeles, Ca.


“The retreat completely exceeded my expectations– the house was stunning, the staff was friendly and attentive and the food was amazing! I was nervous about going on the retreat alone but everyone was so nice it was kind of like one big family. I liked that despite the spectacular setting it was a casual atmosphere and everyone was made to feel at home. I thought the level of activities was perfect, there was lots to do but also lots of down time to just hang out and relax.”
Kathy M.
Santa Barbara, Ca.


“Prior to the retreat, I was not a yogi, nor had I ever surfed.  I wanted an adventure that took me out of my comfort zone, yet was still healthy and something that would provide me time to be introspective and reset my perspective a little.  Meeting and bonding with wonderful people, eating amazing healthy fresh food, and practicing and improving my Spanish were all bonuses.  I learned things about myself that people pay for years of therapy to do.  It was an absolutely amazing and unforgettable experience.  I would do it again tomorrow!  Thank you Three Jewels Retreats!”
Teresa M.
Denver, Co.


“I’ve been to Mexico over a dozen times and this stretch of beach – and that house – are the most beautiful I’ve experienced yet. White, sandy beaches; warm turquoise water with a great surf break directly in front of a stunning, large house with every detail nailed. I’m going back every year without fail.”
Erik S.
Great Falls, Virginia


“I was so surprised how elegant the Retreat  is and how well taken care of we were.  The Villa is extremely comfortable and the website doesn’t do it justice.  You have to see it to believe it.  Very well organized and the staff was extremely attentive to the guests.”
Terri B. 
Longmont Co.


“So, ok….it’s the end of summer…..lived for the kids and their experiences the past few months.  I decided I deserved…ok…. needed….or more truthfully….wanted a get away!!!  I went on-line looking for a true “feel good” experience…….and I kept coming back to Three Jewels Retreat.  Hmmm…..Cut to the chase. I went for it, and signed up
Three Jewels Retreat was Nirvana!
It exceeded my expectations. Fourteen of us shared the most beautiful home on the most exquisite beachfront property. We all had permanent smiles on our faces… during a challenging yoga pose and even after a good surfing wipe-out!  Yoga was amazing……Tunde is the best ever!  That being said, I highly recommend a massage or two  during the retreat…..another A+ experience.  The meals were incredible and the staff was remarkable….so warm yet  FUN.   I didn’t want to leave!  There was a schedule each day, but it was flexible. If one of us really wanted to have a sunset surf instead of sunset yoga, it was encouraged.  I loved that there was no pressure……we were all there to enjoy ourselves……and each other, as it turned out. The other guests were interesting and fun.
Three Jewels Retreat was truly a relaxing and challenging gift to myself.  I already want to go back…”
Janet L.
Vancouver B.C.


“Unlike any surf trip I’ve done. Fun break (La Lancha), amazing house, and the food was incredible. The staff did a great job too, being attentive with out being overbearing.  Thanks John!”
Brad B.
Boulder, Colorado


“One of the best trips that I have ever taken.  The accommodations, food, yoga, surf and weather were all perfect.  I went with my best friend and we had so much fun.  I liked it so much I’m going to bring my husband.  If your looking for a great time to relax and be athletic.  This is the place!!!”
Tess E.
Sarasota, Florida


“I enjoyed absolutely everything. I think the fact that everything was right there for the taking – the beach, the sun, the food, the waves, the rest and relaxation, the good people joining me, It was all so very easy to have fun.”
Ellen W.
Golden, Co.


“I had no idea what to expect on this retreat.  When I arrived at the house, I was blown away.  As soon as you pull into the driveway you can see right through the house to the beach and the ocean; it was breathtaking!  I was greeted with an amazing fresh juice when I arrived and my bags were taken up to my beautiful guest suite.  From that moment on, I knew I was in for a blissful and relaxing experience.  The house was so perfect.  Open, airy, but still warm.  The finishes were beautiful and well thought out.  The house felt rustic, yet elegant.  Now, on t o the staff.  Karla, the chef, is as sweet as can be.  Every single meal was better than the next.  She put so much thought and love into her food and it’s so obvious she loves what she does.  Karla only wanted to please, she could not have been more accommodating with everyone’s  dietary needs.  All of the food was very fresh and looked beautiful.   Enrique and Alma were on top of every detail and thought of what I needed before I did.  They are genuinely happy to take care of all the guests.

“Yoga was twice a day; a class in the morning and then another at sunset.  For me, this was where it all happened.  Losing myself in the sound of the ocean, but still so present.  There was something so amazing about practicing outside, looking into the never-ending sea.  The colors, sounds and smells were so calming.  And, Tunde, the yoga instructor, was so tuned into her students.  No matter what level they were, she was able to reach out and really connect with them.  Somehow, even with a large group of us, she was able to instruct us as individuals;  making each one of us feel good with where we were at and still guide us to our edge.  She shared her knowledge and love for yoga and her sense of humor and smile was so uplifting and comforting.

I have never been on a surfboard until this trip.  The Three Jewels instructors taught us first on land and then in the water.  They were right in the ocean with us talking us through each wave and encouraging us.   I actually got up and surfed and what a feeling that was!  Each of the instructors were extremely experienced and filled with a wealth of knowledge.

Lastly, John made sure that all of his guests were comfortable and taken care of.  John is a gracious and thoughtful host.  He attracted amazing, diverse, strong and low key individuals on this retreat.  There was an immediate connection amongst all of us; it was like we had know each other for years.   This trip was above and beyond; it fulfilled my mind, body and spirit.    Thanks to the Three Jewels Team!
Nanci A.
Boulder, Colorado


“We had such a fabulous time from the minute we walked in the door to the minute that we left. From the most amazing accomodations, fantastic food, excellent service, yoga, beach and surf not to mention the relaxed amoshphere with all the unique guests it was truly a memorable vacation. We had such a great time, we are planning on going back next year for our birthdays…it was AWESOME!”
Sonja W.
St. Petersburg, Florida


“This retreat is best captured and shared in a haiku:
“Surf, sun and yoga
Healthy, fit mind and body
Splashed and renewed…Me.”
 Kim J.
Boulder, Co.


“This was one of the best vacations I took in recent years. The setup is gorgeous, the staff are personable and friendly, Karla’s food is flavorful & amazing ( I even asked for a recipe), the host John was extremely nice and accommodating, Tunde’s yoga practice is inspiring, the quality people in the group were beyond my imagination, and the surf….. ahhhhhhhhhhh…. the sunrise surf.”
Amnon P.
Washington, D.C.


“Honestly, I was a little hesitant to go to a retreat where I didn’t know anybody, but what I found was that everyone was so warm and so welcoming (much more than I am!)  The other guests at the retreat were a delight and the house staff made it so easy to relax and feel at home.  I don’t think I knew what to expect, but I know that I was impressed.  Everything was so beautiful, so peaceful and so perfect.  Since I have been home, I have talked about the retreat with everyone and I’ve recommended it to all of my friends and family.  I know I will go back!”
Krisitn B.
Seattle, Wash.


“Thank you so much for the incredible experience of Three Jewels retreat.  I was so impressed not only with the luxury accommodations but with all the amenities and thoughtful details that were included in the trip.  We arrived to a gracious welcome from the entire staff, our bags immediately whisked away and served and a freshly squeezed juice before we walked through the front door.  Whether we had stayed in the bunk room or the master suite, each room is meticulously kept.  The combination of yoga and surfing gave framework to the day but was never overly scheduled.  Karla’s incredible meals were well planned, abundant and eagerly anticipated by all the guests.”
Erica S.
Boulder, Co.


“The retreat was, in a word, fantastic. Being greeted at the door with a glass of cold, fresh-squeezed  juice was just the beginning.  The location was “to-die-for”, surfing was a hoot, the yoga was, quite literally, a stretch – in exactly the way yoga should stretch you.  Food? Terrific!  Staff?  Sweet and lovely. Activities? Exactly as advertised – fun and challenging.  Planning and organization?  Great!  I couldn’t have asked for a better vacation.”
Miriam R.
Alexandria, Va.