Return 2 Connection
An immersive experience taking place November 21st-26th, 2025 in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Some places aren’t just destinations. They activate something inside of you, where you don’t leave the same person you came as. Lake Atitlán, Guatemala is one of those places. Come experience what it means to awaken your sense of adventure, deepen your relationships, and align with your purpose in a whole new way. It’s time to let nature wrap you in its embrace. Swim in crystal-clear waters, hike through lush landscapes, move your body with breathtaking views, and listen to what surfaces then.
Here is what you can expect:
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A 5 night, 6 day trip
At Return 2 Human, we go beyond the ordinary to create a space where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. This experience isn’t just about the time you spend here—it’s about the lasting impact. The deep connections, profound insights, and meaningful shifts you cultivate will ripple into your relationships, your work, and the way you move through the world, continuing to shape and enrich your life long after you leave.
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Our Venue
The exact venue for Return 2 Connection is still under wraps, but imagine arriving at a space that instantly feels like home. A place where soft light spills through open windows, fresh air drifts in from the surrounding landscape, and every corner invites you to slow down. Cozy yet inspiring, it will have everything you need to create memories you’ll never want to forget.
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Why butterflies?
Transformation is never easy. The butterfly doesn’t resist the cocoon, it surrenders, dissolving completely before it can emerge. True change begins when we stop reacting and start listening to our pain, our truth, and the wisdom within. When we let go of resistance, we make space for something greater. A life that isn’t just waiting for us but one we are meant to create. Because the moment we wake up to our own power, we realize……we are the revolution.
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Hope is Powerful
What would the human experience truly be without hope? This retreat is special because each guest will play a vital role in sponsoring a prosthetic leg through their participation. By showing up for yourself, you’ll also give someone the opportunity to reclaim their independence and live life on their own terms once again. For more details, please refer to the FAQ section below.
Our Team for Return 2 Connection
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Melissa Barto @melissabarto_
FOUNDER OF R2H & EXPERIENCE HOST
Melissa (aka Mel) is an artist, experience designer, and entrepreneur dedicated to curating transformative experiences. She combines her artistic talents with her passion for personal growth, creating containers that reconnect people with their creativity, their courage, and their purpose.
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Li Michelle @vetalli
EXPERIENCE PHOTOGRAPHER
Li captures with intention to create time-capsules for the heart. Portals to connect to moments you want with you always. She has been professionally photographing since 2009, and has been featured in well known publications such as Vogue and Forbes Magazines.
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Hayden Kasprowicz @thesavagefish
EXPERIENCE FACILITATOR
Hayden is a breathwork facilitator, event creator, and explorer of both the world around us and within. Hailing from rural Minnesota, he followed a deep instinct for more at 19, which led him to his true passion: breathwork. Guiding others through this transformational practice feels like his highest calling.
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Alexis Tolentino @eiramsixela
COMMUNITY MANAGER
After experiencing the retreats firsthand, Alexis was inspired to contribute to the R2H community in a meaningful way. Her attention to detail and commitment to creating a seamless experience helps cultivate the transformative environment Return 2 Human is known for.
The experience itinerary:
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4:30 PM– 5:30 PM – Guests arrive from La Aurora airport (tentative due to travel changes). Greeted with welcome drinks/mocktails.
6:00–6:50 PM – Return 2 Connection Opening Ceremony (blindfolds + flowers, leaves, and candles for the altar space; speakers loud for 45 minutes) (Ceremony #1)
7:15 PM – Go to rooms, change, and get ready for dinner (relaxed wear as we will move after).
7:45 PM – Who Are You? 3–4 course plated dinner (group seating).
9:00 PM – Tea Table #1 and stretching with Mel (cups + self-reflection cards set up on deck). Could start earlier if all guests arrive earlier. Includes Your Introduction + Story Time / Connection Circle #1
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6:30 AM – Facilitator Wake-Up Call
6:45 AM – Guest Wake-Up Call
7:00 AM – Facilitator Pow Wow
7:30 AM – Light Snack (smoothie bowls, family style)
9:00 AM – Pilates/Yoga (morning movement)
10:30 AM – Breathwork with Hayden (need blankets, mats, flowers, blindfolds, speakers)
11:45 AM – 12:45 PM – Bet On You Brunch (family style)
1:00–3:00 PM – Creative Writing Workshop with Tribal Markers (journaling → poetry/spoken word → body painting)(Artistic Workshop #1)
3:30–5:30 PM – Temazcal with cacao (Ceremony #2)
6:30 PM – Tea Table with Mel
7:45 PM – Butterfly Dreams Dinner (3 courses plated)
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6:00 AM – Facilitator Wake-Up Call
6:30 AM – Guest Wake-Up Call
6:45 AM – Facilitator Pow Wow
7:00 AM – Light Snack (smoothie bowls, family style)
8:00 AM – Pilates/Yoga (morning movement)
9:15–10:15 AM – Letters of Hope Workshop (Artistic Workshop #2)
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Blooming Brunch
1:00–3:00 PM – Explore San Marcos / Lake Time
3:30–5:30 PM – Butterfly Sanctuary
5:45 PM – Return to Kawoq Forest
6:30 PM – Breathwork with Hayden (followed by tea – casual vibe)
8:00 PM – Be The Change Dinner (3 course plated)
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5:00 AM – Facilitator Wake-Up Call
5:30 AM – Guest Wake-Up Call
6:00 AM – Facilitator Pow Wow
6:30 AM – Pilates/Yoga (morning movement)
7:30 AM – Bring the Blessings Breakfast (family style)
9:00 AM – Head to Panajachel via ferry for Hope To Walk
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Hope To Walk Clinic
1:30 PM – Head back to venue
2:00 PM – Light Snack (smoothie bowls, family style)
3:00 PM – In Bluem Self-Care Ritual Exercise (post showers — facial steams, optional facial masks, skincare ritual with serum and sponges, followed by tea)
4:00 – 7:00 PM – Massages / Free Time
7:30 PM – It Takes 2 Dinner Party (3 course plated, early bedtime)
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3:00 AM – Facilitator & Guest Wake-Up Call
3:30 AM – Facilitator Pow Wow
4:00 AM – Head to Indian Nose for Sunrise (hiking; hot chocolate/tea and bread served)
5:30 AM – Sunrise Sessions at El Rostro Maya
7:00 AM – Head back to Kawoq Forest
8:00 AM – Anything Is Possible Breakfast (family style)
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Tea Table followed by Show Yourself Workshop with Mel (improv + theme song) (Connection Circle #2)
1:00 – 5:00 PM – Private Photoshoots with Lianna / Free Time / Massages
2:00 PM – Light Snack (smoothie bowls, family style)
5:30 PM – Closing Ceremony with cacao (Ceremony #3; fire ceremony or ecstatic dance) (Connection Circle #3)
7:00 PM – Breathwork with Hayden (Let’s Breathe, Unity, Return 2 Human)
8:30 PM – I Believe In You Dinner Party (3 course plated)
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6:00 AM – Facilitator & Guest Wake-Up Call
7:00 AM – Facilitator Pow Wow
7:15 AM – The Rest Is Unwritten Breakfast
8:30 AM – Tea Sit with Mel
11:00 AM – Everyone departs our venue ❤️🔥🫶🏽🥹
Past Client Testimonials
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Kasey (Denver, CO)
“Mel is a born leader. A visionary woman. A facilitator of change. Her passion for helping humans tap into their own intuition and explore their natural born gifts is truly remarkable. She is wildly knowledgeable in the realm of all things spirituality and has a true gift for helping people identify their strengths and uncover theirs shadows. When I signed up for the 5 day retreat in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, I honestly had no idea what to expect. All I knew was that I was in search of a spiritual realignment and wanted to be surrounded by other [people] who were equally as willing to explore themselves in a new light.”
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Sabrina (Miami, FL)
"I am beyond grateful for the retreat Melissa hosted and facilitated. Since the day she announced it, I felt called to dive deeper within myself, and it was one of the most transformational experiences I’ve ever had. I went to this retreat without knowing anyone, and I came out with deep connections. The space and container she held felt so safe and loving that I felt free to surrender and be immersed in presence. I’ve experienced great shifts within myself, and it has also shifted my relationship with others. My relationships have also felt and seen a shift in me. I’ve been able to transcend my emotions, hold space for my inner child, know my worth and magnitude, feel liberated, act and speak from an open heart, and so many more lessons and epiphanies that have been aligning and showing up. It’s every time you show up for yourself and step out of your comfort zone that you experience growth. Thank you [Return 2 Human] for this amazing experience I’ll never forget."
Available Guest Packages
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Shared Room: $3,395
Ideal for solo travelers or friends, this space provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere where you can truly feel at home. Enjoy restful nights in our comfortable beds and connect with new friends as you create lasting memories together. We’ll pair you with a roommate, and each shared room features the comfort of a spacious king or queen bed for a relaxing stay.
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Private Room: $4,495
Indulge in tranquility and comfort in our luxurious private guest room, designed especially for solo travelers seeking a serene escape. This cozy sanctuary features a plush bed and stylish decor, offering a perfect retreat into your own space. With all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay, you can unwind and recharge in style.
Why Hope To Walk?
Hope to Walk is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable prosthetic legs to amputees in developing countries, enabling them to regain mobility and independence. Founded by Phil Johnson (featured in the photo on the left), the organization has developed a groundbreaking prosthetic leg that costs approximately $250—significantly less than traditional prosthetics that can range from $10,000 to $25,000. This innovation allows Hope to Walk to serve a much larger number of individuals in need.
With a mission to offer prosthetic legs and renewed hope to the world, Hope to Walk operates clinics in countries such as Guatemala (their main international clinic), Honduras, El Salvador, Tanzania, and the Dominican Republic, where they fit below-knee prosthetics free of charge. In addition to that, the organization focuses on training local communities to produce and fit these prosthetics, promoting sustainability and self-sufficiency for long-term impact. This organization is proof that with hope, anything is possible.
“Rebirth means that what comes bears no resemblance to what came before. In the same way when we awaken, that which we become is not like that which we were. Once you’ve remembered, forgetting is gone – forever. We still have to live, we have to do the same things, but the indwelling consciousness is completely different.”
-Richard Rudd (GK #49)
FAQs
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What makes a Return 2 Human experience truly special is its blend of physical activities, creative workshops, and nutritious, high-quality meals. Participants engage in workouts that challenge and invigorate them, while creative workshops allow them to explore and express their artistic sides. The emphasis on fresh, wholesome meals ensures that everyone feels nourished and energized.
This retreat experience becomes even more meaningful as we partner with the well-known nonprofit Hope to Walk, which works to gift prosthetic legs to those in need worldwide. A portion of each guest’s package cost goes directly toward providing a prosthetic leg, adding an extra layer of purpose to the transformative and unforgettable journey.
Our aim is to connect people to the world in a way that makes life feel brighter, more vivid, and beautiful—creating a profound connection to both self and others, and leaving a lasting, positive impact on everyone involved.
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November 21st-26th, 2025 in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
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The total cost includes accommodations, group activities, and all meals, with the exception of daily lunches (unless we are on-site during that time). Lunch details will be confirmed approximately 2-3 weeks prior to the experience, allowing you ample time to prepare accordingly. Please note that flights and additional extras, such as massages, souvenirs, and snacks, are not included. Any purchases made outside of the venue are at the client's discretion.
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Absolutely! This will be our first co-ed experience since the summer of 2021. We welcome all individuals aged 21 and older to apply.
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Our packages offer two distinct options to accommodate your preferences: single occupancy and double occupancy. The single occupancy package provides you with a private room, offering a peaceful, intimate retreat experience where you can unwind in solitude. Alternatively, the double occupancy package pairs you with a like-minded roommate, ideal for those looking to connect and share their journey. Both options are designed to ensure comfort and relaxation while fostering a sense of community.
Please note that double occupancy rooms may involve sharing a queen-sized bed or having your own single bed, depending on availability. If you have a preference, kindly indicate it on the form. Rooms are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
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To attend, all guests are required to complete a Guest Application Form. This allows Melissa to connect with you on a deeper level before you make any financial commitment, ensuring that this experience aligns with your goals. It also helps us maintain the safety and well-being of both the R2H team and every guest involved.
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The new venue will get announced between August 19th-21st. We have had several venue shifts for last productions, so we want ti be certain when we make this announcement. The venue is a vital part of the entire experience and we can ensure you that you will be delighted to discover what we have in store.
Here in Guatemala, surrounded by the whispers of the forest, the stillness of the lake, and the powerful energy of the volcanoes, Return 2 Connection takes on new meaning. This land doesn’t just hold you, it reflects you. It reminds you that you were never disconnected from the world, only from yourself.
