ALASKA RETREAT FAQ’s

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Who is this trip for?

 

Women who are ready to say YES to adventure and a bucket list retreat with a small group of outdoor loving women! Any age, all walks of life welcome! 

 

How many women will be attending? 

 

There will be 10 spots available.

 

Where will I fly into?

 

You will fly in and out of Anchorage, Alaska (ANC).

 

What are the dates?

 

Fly into ANC July 17th, 2024. Returning flight home July 24th, 2024. 

 

All transportation to and from the airport will be facilitated for you unless you choose to extend your time in Alaska.

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What can I expect on this Alaska Women’s Retreat?

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• Transportation once you arrive in Anchorage

• Lodging in our cozy home with full accommodations (hello sauna, hot tub, firepits, and killer views)

• All meals, coffee, and beverages

• Personal growth and journaling workbook (we want you to go home with a full cup and a renewed energy)

• Guided bear viewing tour (watch these incredible animals fishing for salmon)

• Chartered bush flights (bring your cameras for this incredible experience)

• 2 days of sockeye fishing with local Kenai River guides

• ATV glacier tour and option cold soak (don’t worry there will be a hot fire and lunch waiting for you!)

• Explore the Knik River Valley by horseback (be ready to take in some of the most amazing scenery and wildlife)

• A night fit for Queens at the Nordic Spa in Alyeska

• Take home swag bag from top hunting companies

• And more priceless memories than you can imagine!

 

Who will pick me up?

 

You will be picked up from the airport by your hosts Courtney Prete and or Nicole Ruesink.

 

Do I need to pack anything special for the trip?

 

A detailed packing list will be sent to you with everything you will need after registration. You will be asked to pack the basics; clothes, shoes, day pack, rain gear, toiletries, swimsuit, sunglasses, and anything else you would like to make you comfortable. The rest will be provided for you.

 

Will a washer and dryer be available?

 

Yes, we will have access to a washer and dryer on the first and last legs of the trip! 

 

Will there be cell service?

 

Yes, we will have cell service and WiFi when we are “home.” There will be times during travel that we will not have service and we encourage to unplug and enjoy being disconnected from the external world! 

 

Can I bring my camera on this trip?

 

You will absolutely want a way to capture this retreat "on film."  The wildlife, scenic landscape and candid moments will be worth saving for a lifetime! 

 

Will there be any additional charges?

 

You will be responsible for covering the cost of the following; retreat registration, airfare to and from Anchorage, checked luggage, a 3 day fishing license ($30), any fish processing you would like done ($2.65/ per pound), gratuities to your guides (this is always optional but appreciated), any extra food and beverages you would like, and any additional lodging if you choose to extend your stay outside of the specified retreat dates. 
 

Are there any physical requirements for this trip?

 

No, there are no specific physical requirements for this trip, however, we will be reeling in fish, and staying active throughout this retreat.  Hikes are optional and you can pick from beginner to advanced if you choose to go. 

 

What can I expect on our fishing days?

 

We will be sockeye salmon fishing on the Kenai River with Explore Kenai - a woman-owned business. Accompanied by your hosts, you will meet your guides, including female guide, Dallas Voss, at a private slough off of the Kenai River. Your guides will fit you in waders and boots and go over a quick safety lesson before loading the 20 foot river sleds. 

 

Once on the river, your guides will find the best fishing hole available and pull over to the bank. You will get a lesson on “flossing for sockeye” and be sent out in thigh-high water to fish. Once everyone’s limits have been met (3 per person per day), we will all get together for some photos with your catch before the guide filets and bags the salmon. 

 

Boats will return to the slough where you will take off waders and can enjoy a beverage from the beer garden and relive the day's events!  

 

Filets will be dropped off at Custom Seafoods for processing.

 

What is the cost for fish processing?

 

The cost of processing and packaging with Custom Seafood in Soldotna is $2.65/ per pound. You will also need to purchase a fish box (usually around $25) or buy a cooler from the store for travel.

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Can I fly home with my fish?

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Yes, you can check fish as one of your luggage items with your airline. We will make sure it is frozen before you travel. You can purchase a fish box from the fish processor, or you can get a cooler from the store in town. 

 

What are the lodging arrangements like?

 

We will be enjoying the spoils of our luxury homes in three different locations around Alaska! Will will be in midtown Anchorage in our 5 bedroom, 3 bath home, with a sauna, plush king size beds, and an in home cinema for the first two nights!

 

The next few days will be spent near Soldotna at a traditional Alaska Lodge with stunning views, campfires, and time to relax in the beauty of the peninsula. 

 

And we end the trip with the best place yet! The last two nights we’ll be soaking up the best of the best in Girdwood! This home boasts dreamy mountain views, large open spaces to relax and socialize around the fire, and a hot tub with unparalleled views of the Turnagain Arm and surrounding mountain ranges. These homes will allow for 2 women per room.
 

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

 

Yes, you will have the option to shop at the local grocery store and buy your own food, drinks, and snacks. 

 

I follow a specific nutrition protocol or have food allergies can this be accommodated? 

 

We will do our very best to work around your specific nutritional needs and are happy to work with your food restrictions or preferences. Please send an email to courtney@heroutdoorjourney.com after booking to communicate your needs.

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What is the total cost of the Alaska Women’s Retreat, and what is the payment schedule?

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TOTAL COST:.$5,897 This will be made over three payments. You’re responsible for the 30% deposit ($1,769.10) upon booking, an additional 30% payment ($1,769.10) due by March 1st, 2024, and the remaining 40% payment of $2,358.80 is due by June 1st, 2024. Payments 2 and 3 can be made with a credit card, checking account, Venmo, or PayPal). If you would like to pay in full at time of booking, email us at courtney@heroutdoorjourney.com 

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Will I be charged interest or any fees for not paying in full?

 

No, we are happy to split the total cost into three payment!! No fees, just come and have the time of your life! We are so proud of you for investing in yourself and doing the things that excite you - this is going to be the trip of a lifetime! **Please note that invoices not paid by the due date will acquire a $25 processing fee.**

 

What if I want to pay in full?

 

We are happy to work with you if you want to pay in full! Please email us at courtney@heroutdoorjourney.com to make this arrangement and reserve your booking!

 

What is the refund and cancellation policy?

 

At the time of booking a 30% deposit is required. The second 30% payment is due on or before March 1, 2024. The third and final payment is due on June 1st, 2024. **Please note that invoices not paid by the due date will acquire a $25 processing fee.** No refunds, cancellations, or credits will be offered for this trip.  If you are unable to make the trip for any reason you are able to transfer your deposit to another lady. In the unlikely event that your guides have to cancel the trip, you will receive a full refund!

 

Why are only women invited on this trip?

 

Part of the mission and vision that builds our camps is to bridge the gap for women in the outdoors. These camps and events allow women a common ground where they are able to connect and ignite powerful bonds! These inspiring small events are outlined to build confidence in yourself while being supported by women just like you!

 

Will there be co-ed trips in the future?

 

YES! We are working on adding more camps to our lineup! If you have a special request or an event you’d like to have designed around your bucket list idea, send me an email at courtney@heroutdoorjourney.com Bachelorette party? 50th birthday? Team building retreat? Get a hold of us for a free consultation!