🐥 EARLY BIRD SPECIAL 🐥

🤑 Save $500 USD
🎁 VIP Gift Bag with extra goodies
--> Enter code BUENOS-DIAS at checkout.

Register before March 31, 2023, to take advantage of this discount.

Please note that discount codes don’t apply to add-on packages.

🟢 Are you ready to embark on a journey that will nurture your creativity, expand your horizons, and leave you with unforgettable memories? My name is Xhico, and I'm excited to invite you to join me on a travel retreat to Oaxaca, Mexico, where we'll explore the beauty of this region through the eyes of a Surface Pattern Designer.

During this trip, we'll have the opportunity to visit the studios of indigenous artisans, observe traditional craft techniques, participate in design workshops, and experience Oaxaca's rich culture and cuisine.

But this trip is more than just a series of activities and locations- it's a chance to connect with a vibrant and diverse community, learn from master craftspeople, and discover new perspectives and inspirations.

Imagine dyeing your garment using natural resources like plants, fruits, and insects, guided by a family with generations of expertise. Or you are sitting with a sculptor whose love for life is infectious, who uses black clay to create playful faces and intricate patterns on pottery and feel the material's texture and weight in your hands—or getting your hands dirty and getting back to tactile art in printmaking workshops from incredible local talents who are also my friends.

You'll taste Oaxacan cuisine's complex flavors and aromas, from rich and spicy moles to refreshing fruit waters and mezcal cocktails. Imagine using all of your senses to ignite your imagination.

As a Surface Pattern Designer, I've curated this trip to showcase Oaxaca's beauty, creativity, and cultural richness and provide a unique and enriching experience. Whether you're an experienced designer or simply curious about the world, you'll find plenty of inspiration and learning opportunities on this trip.

And if you're worried about safety, comfort, or logistics, rest assured that we've taken care of every detail, from comfortable and stylish accommodations to expert guides and transportation. We'll be with you every step of the way, ensuring that you have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience.

But don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our past participants have said about the trip:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "This was a life-changing trip. I got the refresh and recharge I was wanting and needing. If you want ALL the amazing magic with NONE of the work and stress--this is the trip for you!" - Sunja P.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "I have usually traveled on my itinerary with a guide thrown in for a significant attraction. But this trip was perfect for an all-inclusive guided tour. And if you have sticker shock, shake it off because this curated adventure is worth it. The access to local artisans and chefs was amazing! The hands-on experiences were a blast! The transportation is effortless. It’s a magical land that will feed your art and soul!" - Mary J.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "This was the trip of a lifetime. We got to see and participate in numerous events with Mexico's premier artisans, distillers, and craftpersons, which would never have been possible individually. I will one day go back to Oaxaca to visit, but this trip will always hold a very special place in my heart and memory!" - Michael S.

So, are you ready to join us, fill your heart, and nourish your soul on this journey of creativity, culture, and connection? Sign up now and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

See the full itinerary below; don't forget, there will be surprises!

⭐️ I believe in working with indigenous artisans to amplify their voices and bring attention to their designs, arts, and crafts. We compensate all artisans for their time during our visits.

⭐️ I encourage you to purchase products directly from the artisans we visit. This benefits the artists directly the most.

⭐️ All of our staff in Mexico are paid fairly and given gratuity for their services. We never take a commission from any of the artisans.

⭐️ A portion of the profits from this trip will be given to a community organization benefiting the local arts.

We'll stay at Hotel Azul de Oaxaca in Oaxaca's historic center. I've chosen this four-star hotel for you because of its convenient location, attentive staff, and contemporary artistic vibes. 

This hotel maintains the warmth of Mexico while being touched by Oaxacan artists like Francisco Toledo. You'll find some of his artwork in the hotel gallery off the courtyard. In the central courtyard, you'll find a tasty restaurant where we will be eating a delicious breakfast each morning. There is also a second courtyard and terrace to relax.

The hotel is located on Abasolo Street, just a few meters away from the Church of Santo Domingo and only a few blocks from the Zócalo; everything is within walking distance. 

The Boutique Hotel offers 21 rooms. The most famous artists of Oaxaca have participated in its design: Francisco Toledo, Rubén Leyva, José Villalobos, and Luis Zarate.

Learn more about the hotel here: Hotel Website

"I loved the hotel. would stay there again. it felt like we had the place to ourselves. the dramatic inner courtyard, and the roof bar that no one used made it perfect for us. Also good bacon." - Sunja P.

"The hotel was spectacular! I’d highly recommend it. It’s minimal in the tasteful sense, clean and the bed was so comfortable. The mornings, eating in the restaurant area, we were always welcomed warmly by the staff and relaxing on the rooftop after a day of exploring was a treat. The staff went above and beyond helping me ship home a package via DHL! Personally escorting me to DHL, wow." - Mary J.

Staying Longer?

The 6 nights hotel stay includes Saturday, October 21 - checkout Friday, October 27, 2023. 

Suppose you are interested in arriving sooner or staying longer. In that case, I can recommend some hotels or AirBNB. If you come earlier or stay longer, you must pay the hotel for the additional days directly and all other expenses yourself. It is important to make these arrangements ASAP due to room availability and high demand during the Day of the Dead season.

Your host, Xhico, has worked with Tanya Diaz for several years. They have organized arts & culture events for travelers, artists, and higher education in Mexico City and Oaxaca. They're coming together again to bring you this magical event.

"And Xhico and Tanya are great hosts that make you feel right at home and excited to explore the wonders of Oaxaca!" - Mary J.

🤠 Larimie "Xhico" Garcia, Host

This trip has been curated especially for Surface Designers and Artists by Larimie "Xhico" Garcia of Studio Xhico. He is a Designer, Artist, and Design Educator. He has over a decade of experience working with indigenous artisans of Oaxaca and Chiapas, Mexico, and communities in Guatemala. His close relationship with artisans and regional cooks brings you into their world for a close-up look at their lives as artists. Xhico has guided individuals and groups seeking a more profound cultural interaction with local artisans. 

💃🏽 Tanya Diaz, Co-Host

Tanya Diaz is a freelance travel producer and works at a think-tank for higher education. She has been creating art experiences and high-level tours for several years. Her smile and energy keep the groups going. 

🌮 The Food

"Every single thing was delicious. Even the not-so-fancy roadside place was spectacular." - Sunja P.

"Plenty of food every day. The traditional Zapotec cooking lesson and meal was terrific—the corn soup was spectacular!" - Michael S.

Lots of delicious food is on the menu. Not only am I a designer, but I'm a foodie, and I love to cook. So I've spent much time eating in Oaxaca and trying many tasty meals. Oaxaca has some of the best food in Mexico and possibly the world. Oaxacan food is probably like nothing you've ever had. It is rooted deep in prehispanic tradition and uses local ingredients.

We'll eat at some of the best restaurants in Oaxaca from world-class chefs. More rustic affairs and street food are a must while in this region. Some of our meals will be in traditional kitchens, with meals cooked over the fire and made with fresh ingredients and a lot of love.

You'll experience a local Mexican market and be stimulated by many new flavors and aromas. Prepare for tasty tropical fruits, refreshing aguas frescas, and drinking chocolate and mole. Mole is a rich sauce prepared and used in many ways. There are several types of moles, and they are sometimes made with 20-30 ingredients. We will be sampling a variety of these complex sauces.

We'll also eat traditional Oaxacan dishes like tlayudas, empanadas, tamales, and memelas. Of course, there will be quesillo - Oaxaca's signature cheese. And for the daring, I'll challenge you to try eating a grasshopper. Yes, a grasshopper! You're probably going to like it!

You'll eat at the hotel restaurant each morning before we head out for our programming.

🍹 Adult Beverages

A trip to Oaxaca wouldn't be complete without tasting Mezcal. Mezcal is a spirit made from the agave plant. Like wine, the aromas and flavors can vary greatly depending on the type, region, and process. You'll get to taste for yourself. If that's not your thing, artisanal beers and cocktails also get you in the celebratory mood. And we have tasty mocktails, too!

❣️ Special Diet Needs?

"I ate so much! I was blown away by the vegan options made available for me. Each meal was unique, delicious and all plant based." - Mary J.

Are you vegan? Have allergies? Just don't like something? Let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate you. Depending on your needs and the scenario, we might not always be able to accommodate you, but we always try our best! After you book your trip, you'll be sent a registration form. There, we'll get the info we need from you.

Our Program will be six nights:

Arriving Saturday, October 21 - Departing Friday, October 27, 2023.

Programming begins Saturday at 5 pm.

I have picked these dates because it is the week leading up to Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). It is one of the most exciting times in Oaxaca and one of the busiest. You will be able to absorb the holiday vibes throughout the week.

The holiday is actually on November 1-2. It is hard to maneuver a large group through the area on these nights. But it is a beautiful experience. If you are able and interested in staying longer for a holiday, I can provide a suggested itinerary. If interested, I recommend making additional accommodations as soon as possible, as the season books fast.

📆 June 21, 2023 - Last Day to Register

✅ Payment Schedule:

All bookings require a non-refundable booking fee of $997. Your balance will be payable in two payments per the schedule below. If you use a Coupon Code, your discount will be removed from your final price.

✅ DUE at the time of Booking

Non-Refundable Booking Fee of $997

✅ June 21, 2023

Payment 1 - First half of the remaining balance.

✅ August 21, 2023

Payment 2 - Remaining balance due.

🚫 Cancellation & Refund Policy:

By You. You agree that the Booking Fee is non-refundable in the event you wish to cancel your participation in the Program. A request to cancel your participation in the Program will be considered by the Company if a Notice of Cancellation is provided to Company in writing at studioxhico@gmail.com and if it meets the following deadlines: 

1. If the Notice of Cancellation is received by the Company on or before July 21, 2023, you may receive a refund of seventy-five percent (75%) of the total Program Fee Remaining Balance payments received from you (not including the non-refundable Booking Fee).
   
2. If the Notice of Cancellation is received by the Company on or before August 21, 2023, you may receive a refund of fifty percent (50%) of the total Program Fee Remaining Balance payments received from you (not including the non-refundable Booking Fee).
   
3. If the Notice of Cancellation is received by Company on or after August 21, 2023, there will be no refunds of any amounts issued; no exceptions.

By Company. If the Company is unable to confirm a minimum of five (5) Program participants, then Company reserves the right to cancel the Program and you will be refunded all amounts paid by you to the Company (including the Booking Fee). If the Company needs to cancel the Program, you will be notified by July 30, 2023. If you are purchasing your flight before July 30, 2023, we recommend you book a flexible ticket or secure travel insurance with flight coverage.

Read full TERMS OF SERVICE.

🟢 Requirements

• You must be 18 years or older to attend this trip.

• Proof of Travel Insurance is required before the trip. You must purchase Travel Insurance separately. It can be from any agency.

• You must agree to the Terms of Service and sign the digital document after registration. See Below.
• You must agree to payment terms, schedule, and refund policy.

• After paying your booking fee, you must complete a registration form. We will send you a link for this.

Read the full Terms of Service for more on the details above.

🟢 Terms of Service

To book your trip, you must agree to our Terms of Service. In addition to viewing them here, you agree to sign a digital document via HelloSign. A link for this will be sent to you after your registration and must be signed for travel.

Please download and carefully read the full Terms of Service. If you have any questions, please email them to studioxhico@gmail.com

Read full TERMS OF SERVICE.

🟢 Still have questions???

Send me an email at studioxhico@gmail.com and I'll get back to you!