Traveling with a purpose has become popular for people seeking to develop new skills, reset mind and body and even level up in life or business. Not only does it help people enrich their lives, but it has become a big business in many parts of the world. Conscious retreat centers are popping up all over the globe to host groups or individuals who seek to learn, grow and thrive from living in eco-friendly environments, some off grid, exposing people to sustainable living. Classes in yoga, breathwork, dance, bamboo and eco-friendly building as well as permaculture are among the wide array of topics one can choose for a week or even a month long “vacation.”

Amanda Schmidt, owner of Wild Flier Boutique in Ocean Springs and Destin, leads and attends groups like these in Costa Rica and other countries and here locally in Mississippi at Twisted Run Retreat. She received yoga teacher certification in 21 days in Costa Rica at one such retreat center and has been facilitating groups ever since. She acts as a concierge to the “Pura Vida” experience if you want to explore on your own. She is also currently hosting small groups of two to six people and works to accommodate each experience personally for a trip tailored to meet your requests, as well as offer options for activities and experiences to explore, learn and grow. Currently scheduling from January through April 2024 and July through September 2024.