The Intentional Journey:
Rediscovering Meaning and Deep Connection in
Trinidad & Tobago
March 15-22, 2026
Exclusive VIP Experience - March 22-25, 2026
Imagine stepping off the plane into the warm embrace of Trinidad & Tobago’s tropical air. The world instantly feels different—as if the vibrant colors of the Caribbean have seeped into the very atmosphere, painting your spirit with hues of joy and anticipation. As you breathe in, the aroma of sizzling spices awakens your senses to the island’s rich tapestry ofcultures, the palm trees swooning overhead with a gentle breeze. Under your feet, the ground feels both familiar and new, an invitation to explore and discover.
You find yourself on a bustling street where the melodic call to prayer from a nearby mosque harmonizes effortlessly with the distant toll of church bells and the rhythmic chant of a Hindu puja. This symphony of faiths envelops you in a sense of belonging and unity, a living testament to the beauty of coexistence. In this moment, you realize you are not just a visitor but a participant in a vibrant cultural dance that transcends time and place.
Your heart swells with a profound sense of connection as you engage with the community, sharing stories and laughter over a joyful Eid al-Fitr feast. The taste of sweet pastries and the warmth of genuine smiles linger on your palate and in your soul. As the sun sets, casting golden rays over the island, you feel a quiet peace settle within—a clarity and purpose that have long eluded you. Here, amidst the harmonious contradictions of Trinidad & Tobago, you rediscover not just the world, but yourself.
We look forward to welcoming you to your Caribbean home.
The world has called you to the magical twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago. This journey is a deliberate, heart-first leap out of your daily rhythm—a chance to step away, reset your mind and body, and engage in self-exploration and discovery. Unlike any other destination, this beautiful country operates as a living, vibrant classroom where contrast leads not to conflict, but to a breathtaking, cohesive community.
Can you imagine how wonderful it would be to reclaim your sense of adventure and experience life beyond the routine?
Through this immersive cultural experience, you will reignite your spirit of exploration and spontaneity, ready to embrace new experiences and infuse your life with excitement beyond the daily grind.
How fantastic would it be to break from the pervasive divisiveness and experience deeper personal connections and the connected partnership you long for?
Trinidad and Tobago offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience harmony when elsewhere there is too often distrust and criticism. Through community, coaching, a renewed sense of presence, and powerful reflections, you will nurture deeper, more vulnerable connections in all your relationships.
This immersive experience is your invitation to heed a call to an internal sojourn through engagement with the other. It’s a journey designed to dismantle and discover what matters to you most while you relax in a trusted community, regaining the clarity you need, refreshed and inspired to live your desired life.
Why Trinidad & Tobago?
A History That Unlocks Your Future
Long ago, the indigenous Arawak and Carib people honored these islands, viewing nature as a source of powerful, guiding spirits. When you arrive, you’ll be walking on soil that has known deep spiritual practice for 7,000 years—a history that whispers ancient wisdom, inviting you to connect to a deeper, more grounded sense of self.
But the story doesn’t end there. After the arrival of European powers like the Spanish and British, the twin islands became a cauldron of global migration. After slavery was abolished, the country welcomed hundreds of thousands of people from Africa, India, China, Portugal, and the Middle East, bringing a vast mix of culture, music, religions, food, and resilience.
This isn’t a history of division; it’s a profound history of integration. Trinidad and Tobago is arguably the world’s most successful living experiment in coexistence—a place where the call to prayer, the church bell, and the chant of a Hindu puja weave together on a single street.
You will witness first-hand a place that has mastered harmony through contrast, and to step into the powerful, authentic clarity that only such an experience can offer. Your transformation is written into the DNA of this island.
The Venue
Welcome To Harmony Haven
Nestled in a local neighborhood to the east of the capital of Port of Spain, our retreat
center is an oasis of calm and reflection. Located in the heart of Piarco, it stands as the region’s place of reflection, offering a setting that invites you to pause and breathe. The
atmosphere here is one of quiet rejuvenation, where the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant call of native birds create a symphony of peace. With a rich cultural history, the Trinidad and Tobago Urban Ministries Retreat Center stands as a testament to the harmony that can exist between cultures and peoples.
Gathering Spaces
Our communal areas are designed to foster connection and introspection. You will gather in our spacious meeting hall, which serves as the hub for group activities and workshops. The hall opens up to a refreshing pool, beckoning a welcome dip in the late afternoon. You will find yourself drawn to the large gazebo, perfect for morning meditation or yoga, where palm trees whisper in the breeze. These spaces are crafted to enhance your experience, providing a backdrop that encourages both personal and collective growth. Our private dining room will be filled with laughter and meandering conversations, and our chefs will delight us with cooking lessons, sharing secrets of the magic of Trinbagonian cuisine.
Activities & Offerings
At the center, you will immerse yourself in a variety of activities designed to nourish the soul. You will partake in yoga sessions, set against the serene backdrop of our natural surroundings. Guided meditations are offered each morning, and quiet walks around the retreat center offer sightings of exotic birds in the surrounding trees. Engage in art therapy workshops that allow you to explore your creativity and express your inner thoughts. Private transportation (all included) from the moment you land at the airport and throughout our journey will escort us on adventures and will ensure you enter the secure retreat center safe and sound, ready for a deep night’s sleep. Our offerings are curated to ensure a balance of relaxation and inspiration, creating a container of intentional connection with yourself and your new community of friends.
Accommodations
Your stay at the Trinidad and Tobago Urban Ministries retreat center will be both comfortable and enriching. Our accommodations reflect the style and character of the
local culture, with simple rooms that are both cozy and inviting. Amenities normally expected at a hotel will be provided, and special surprises will greet you upon arrival and throughout your stay. Both single and double occupancy rooms are available, all of which are ensuite and air-conditioned.
Closing
As you depart from this Caribbean gem, you will carry with you a sense of renewal and transformation. This exclusive immersion experience offers you a rare opportunity to step away from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. We look forward to welcoming you into our community, where every moment is an invitation to rediscover, rekindle, and reimagine what is possible.
A Heritage on a Plate
Welcome to a culinary journey that will be as enriching as your time on the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago. As soon as you arrive, you will step into a dining experience that feels like a warm embrace, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and delicious flavors. Our dining setting is relaxed and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for you to unwind, share stories, and savor the vibrant tastes that define Trinbagonian cuisine.
You will delight in the rich tapestry of flavors that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of the country. Local specialtieswill introduce you to a fusion of West African, Indian, Creole, and Chinese influences, making every meal an adventure in itself.
The first scent greeting you will be the aroma of Green Seasoning—a fresh blend of chadon beni, pimento peppers, garlic, and thyme—the fragrant heart of nearly every savory dish. This scent tells the story of Trinidad and Tobago, and from here you will fall in love with the Caribbean country most infamous for its delectable and varied cuisine.
For breakfast, you may start your day with traditional favorites like bake and saltfish, offering a tantalizing blend of salty and savory.
Lunch will be a time to enjoy dishes like doubles, a staple of any local Trinbagonian, with its soft flatbreads and spicy chickpea filling, optionally topped off with fiery pepper sauce. The vibrant yellows of curry, the ruby red of sorrel drink, and the deep green of the rainforest create a tantalizing rainbow of food, encouraging one more bite.
Dinner will be a feast of flavors, featuring hearty pelau and coconut-infused callaloo served alongside tender stewedmeats, caramelized with the region’s sugar. Every bite of a Roti or a hearty Pelau is a direct connection to the generations of ancestors who blended these cultures into culinary masterpieces.
Rest assured, your dietary preferences and allergies will be thoughtfully accommodated, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and well-cared for at our table.
We can’t wait for you to experience the warmth and hospitality of the country’s culinary offerings. Every meal will be an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the vibrant heritage on your plate.
Our Journey
Sunday, March 15: Arrival & Welcome
Today, you’ll begin your journey with a warm welcome the moment you arrive in Port of Spain. Your transfer will take you to a serene, faith-based Retreat Centre, offering a peaceful retreat amidst a vibrant neighborhood. As you unwind from your travels, you’ll meet the kindred spirits who will share this transformative week with you. Over a home-cooked welcome dinner, we’ll set our intentions, inviting a sense of curiosity and openness to the discoveries that lie ahead. This evening, you’ll start to feel the gentle embrace of the island’s unique energy, setting the stage for a week of exploration and connection.
Monday, March 16: Contradictions & Conversations
The morning will begin with a rejuvenating yoga session, preparing you for a day of exploration and discovery. You’ll embark on a guided journey through the island’s iconic religious landmarks, witnessing firsthand the harmonious coexistence of diverse spiritual traditions. The afternoon will invite you into deeper conversations through group coaching and reflection, offering space to process and share your experiences. As the day concludes with a shared meal under the evening light, you’ll feel the warmth of community and the richness of Trinidad’s cultural tapestry, sparking reflections on harmony in diversity.
Tuesday, March 17: Meaning at the Margins
As the sun rises, you’ll engage in meditation filled with quiet gratitude before setting off on a unique adventure. A small wooden boat will carry you into the mangroves, a living classroom where local guardians reveal how their stewardship heals both ecosystems and communities. You’ll dine in a Hindu village, where tradition and modernization dance in hopeful renewal. As you reflect on the day’s journey, you’ll find insights emerging from the margins, recognizing how meaning can take root even in the most challenging circumstances.
Wednesday, March 18: Community Calling
On this day, you’ll delve even deeper into your purpose. After a morning mindfulness session, you’ll meet local innovators transforming challenges into opportunities. As you explore the vast Pitch Lake, you’ll witness the resilience and ingenuity of those working to turn scarcity into promise. Later, you’ll connect with a family-led initiative that uses sport and love to uplift a stigmatized neighborhood. Their courage will inspire you to consider how conviction and compassion can shift entire communities. Through group coaching, you’ll translate these lessons into your own callings, enriching your personal and professional life.
Thursday, March 19: Music and Movement
Today, you’ll explore creativity as a pathway to self-discovery.
Following morning mindfulness, you’ll journey into Port of Spain to witness the vibrant evolution of the steelpan. You’ll see how discarded oil drums become instruments of joy, meeting artisans and even trying your hand at creating music. In the afternoon, a theatre practitioner will guide you in transforming personal stories into strength through rhythm and movement. As you uncover new ways of listening to yourself, you’ll find expression for what is ready to emerge, adding a new dimension to your journey.
Friday, March 20: Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrations
This day will be one of celebration and connection. You’ll start with deep yoga and mindfulness, grounding yourself in gratitude. Across the island, families will open their homes for Eid-ul-Fitr, inviting neighbors of all faiths to join in the festivities. You’ll share in the joy, sampling sweet pastries and witnessing a community that shines through embracing differences. As you experience grace in action, you’ll feel a profound sense of unity and belonging, enriching your understanding of community as a source of strength and connection.
Saturday, March 21: The Art of Discovery
On this final full day, you’ll engage in reflection and renewal. After a concluding yoga session, you’ll participate in an art therapy experience, translating the week’s reflections into visual form through color, shape, and texture. In our final group coaching and sharing circle, you’ll celebrate the discoveries made and the paths yet to be explored. The evening will end with a farewell dinner, marking both an ending and a beginning. As you honor the journey undertaken, you’ll carry forward a newfound clarity and purpose, ready to embrace what lies ahead.
Sunday, March 22: Departure/Optional Tobago Extension
After a heartfelt breakfast and goodbyes, you will head to the airport with a heart full of stories, insights, and a deep sense of stillness gathered over the week. These gentle reminders will accompany you home, reinforcing that purpose is a lifelong practice, not a destination. Should you choose to extend your journey to Tobago, you’ll embark on a serene continuation focused on self-care and integration, deepening the transformations experienced and setting a concrete roadmap for your return home.
There is nothing else like this journey
Imagine shifting out of autopilot to a life of profound purpose and genuine excitement….
During our journey together, you’ll be challenged to face old patterns, reinvigorate what matters to you, and gather tools to awaken a life of profound purpose and intentionality, so you can become the conscious creator of your own vibrant future.
You will reconnect with your long-dormant artistic spirit and quiet your inner critic, revitalizing confidence and creativity back into your life.
You will find yourself resolving internal conflicts and gaining unwavering certainty in your next steps in life, so you can align your path with your deepest desires, aligned with what matters.
You will transform whispering feelings of emptiness into a vibrant sense of excitement and fulfillment, so you can truly love your life and rediscover joy.
Bonuses
- A Clarity call – 30 minutes of 1:1 time with Stephanie, so she can get to know you personally and best support you on your journey
- A Group call – 60 minutes prior to departure to meet your kindred souls venturing on this journey with you.
- Access to a Private Retreat Facebook Group – share our excitement before the retreat, make connections with new friends, ask questions, receive up to date trip info, stay connected post-trip, and of course use the group as a fun photo dump to share all of our experiences captured!
- Post-Retreat Group call – Celebrating our new founded community, creating ideas how to continue our shared timed together.
What's included & What's not included
What's included
- 7 nights and 9 days at the lovely Trinidad and Tobago Urban Ministries Retreat Center.
- All delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners made with local natural ingredients, including excursions meals, the Eid celebration, and homecooked meals made by local families.
- All local ground transportation, including all airport transfers.
- All Entrance and Private Tour Guide Fees.
- All donations made to local organizations with whom we visit.
- All tips and gratuities (you are welcome to add a special note of thanks if desired).
- All group coaching.
- All yoga and meditation sessions.
- All other activities offered throughout the experience
- Housekeeping services (offered every other day).
- Self-serve laundry facilities are available in our lodge.
- Connect via Facebook Group created for this retreat – you will have full access to allow us to connect pre/post trip as we prepare for this adventure.
- Special gift upon arrival.
What's not included
- Your round-trip airfare to and from the Trinidad and Tobago International Airport (POS).
- Separate 1:1 Coaching sessions with Stephanie during the week (optional).
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Souvenir shopping, personal phone calls, personal items (optional).
- Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance (strongly recommended).
Flights
March 15-22, 2026
Exclusive VIP Experience
March 22-25, 2026
Arrive at the Trinidad and Tobago International Airport (POS) on March 15, 2026 before 4:00 pm so you can settle in before our Welcome dinner and Opening Evening. Your departure on March 22 should be scheduled no later than 10:00 am unless you are remaining for the Exclusive VIP excursion to Tobago. All airport transfers are included; please send us your flight information by March 1.
If you would like to arrive earlier than March 15 or stay longer in Trinidad and Tobago after March 22 on your own schedule, we are happy to provide you with resources and recommendations for lodging and activities.
The Host Team
The ServantEDGE immersion experience to Trinidad and Tobago is led by an expert team dedicated to a truly authentic and meaningful journey.
Stephanie Mikulasek
A former U.S. Diplomat and founder of The ServantEDGE, will guide you with her extensive experience in igniting transformation through experiences. She will be available for optional 1:1 coaching sessions to help you gain clarity and re-think what matters.
READ MORE
Growing up amidst the vibrant landscapes of California, I always felt a pull towards understanding and connecting with the world on a deeper level. My journey began in the Silicon Valley, and then moved across the United States, including time with the Lakota people at the Pine Ridge Reservation and eventually Zimbabwe, a place I called home for several years. When I joined the Department of State and later USAID as a U.S. Diplomat, I navigated multiple complexinternational landscapes, cultures, environments and communities. My calling has always been clear regardless of my work: find ways to build bridges of understanding and compassion while tearing down walls of prejudice and fear.
Through my travels and experiences, I realized a profound truth: we must begin with our internal alignment, understanding deeply our humanness, compassion, curiosity, and care. It’s about rediscovering who we are, understanding why we matter, and leading with a heart full of purpose. As an executive coach, meditation teacher, and founder and CEO of The ServantEDGE, I am passionate about helping others live and lead from a place of deep alignment and profound awareness, from which we can create actions of significant impact.
My work is deeply rooted in the belief that our deepest growth occurs through dissonance – when the “normal” is no longer there. When a supportive container of reflection, coaching, and community is nurtured, significant transformation naturally evolves and blossoms. In the same spirit, I have found that true leadership emerges from embracing our humanity in systems that often forget it. Belonging is the real return on investment in leadership. It mends the divides that threaten our communities and rebuilds connections that inspire collective progress. This philosophy has shaped my approach to coaching, where I integrate immersive experiences and transformational practices to empower leaders, managers, individual contributors, and other sojourners to discover their true potential.
Throughout my career, I have been blessed to learn from some of the most insightful minds, earning certifications in executive coaching from Georgetown University, mindfulness meditation from Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, and many others. My academic pursuit of a PhD in transformational leadership is fueled by my passion for leveraging immersive experiences to cultivate leaders who can drive meaningful change.
Today, I call the lush Pacific Northwest home, where I cherish moments with my two college-aged daughters. My journey has been one of discovery, and I am eager to share it with you. I invite you to join me on an immersion experience where we will explore the depths of self-awareness and emerge grounded and ignited to make a difference. Together, let’s embark
on a journey of transformation and come home to ourselves.
Ryan Assiu
A Trinbagonian and former USAID Foreign Service National, is the Founder of Advisors Next Door. He brings an unparalleled depth of local knowledge, connections, and a passion for Trinidad and Tobago and community-led development.
Deanna Albert
A Trinbagonian and Principal Consultant at Advisors Next Door, is an artist, masquerader, and sustainability champion who provides a deep understanding of the local culture that will ensure you are welcomed with open arms into this transformative experience.
Tobago Days
MARCH 22-25, 2026
Interested in a fabulous beach resort on the small island of Tobago?
Seeking a deeper exploration into decisions or challenges you are facing with personal support?
For a very select few guests, you may extend your transformation with three nights of focused self-care, 1:1 coaching, and relaxation on the idyllic island of Tobago.
This experience includes personalized, tailored 1:1 coaching, meditation, and reflection sessions with Stephanie to fully integrate your discoveries and build a concrete roadmap for your return home. A separate custom itinerary will be developed in collaboration with your objectives during a special pre-trip call with Stephanie focused solely on you. Additionally, a list of optional and recommended activities will be offered to be used at your discretion.
The morning begins with coffee while watching the Caribbean waters stir to life. After a delicious breakfast, your tailored itinerary begins. Between coaching sessions with Stephanie, reflection exercises, and rest, you may be snorkeling with the turtles, walking on the beach, exploring the town, or reading by the pool.
You may decide to take lunch in town at a small bistro, or dinner may be lounging at the bar, meeting other travelers experiencing this beautiful island in the Caribbean.
Tobago VIP Day 1
Your VIP Day begins with a short flight from the international airport in Port of Spain to the Tobago airport. There airport transfers will be waiting to whisk you to your hotel, where you will relax on the white sandy beach or by the sumptuous pool. The cuisine continues its deliciousness, and the stars at night will stun you with their brilliance.
You will meet with Stephanie later in the day to refresh our intention for the coming days and updating any preferences may have.
You’ll finally fall into a luxurious bed, the ocean waves gently calling in the background as you drift into dreamland.
Tobago VIP Day 2
The morning begins with coffee while watching the Caribbean waters stir to life. After a delicious breakfast, your tailored itinerary begins. Between coaching sessions with Stephanie, reflection exercises, and rest, you may be snorkeling with the turtles, walking on the beach, exploring the town, or reading by the pool.
You may decide to take lunch in town at a small bistro, or dinner may be lounging at the bar, meeting other travelers experiencing this beautiful island in the Caribbean.
Tobago VIP Day 3
Your itinerary continues with morning meditation and then a deeply insightful coaching session as you sort out what arose the day before. An action plan begins to take shape, the previous week’s influence guiding and instructing your next steps. You feel a sense of excitement, starting to think about returning home reenergized and refreshed for what will come.
You may also decide to return to the beach, drifting off to sleep as the palms wave overhead, the ocean lapping at your feet. Your final dinner is a moment of deep reflection, looking ahead with a new perspective, a new way of being in the world.
Tobago VIP Day 4
An early start brings you to the local airport for a quick flight to Port of Spain and onwards to home. Already you’ve sent photos and notes to the Alumni Facebook group, sharing the magic of the insights that arose and the adventures of this pearl in the Caribbean….Tobago.
What is included
Three nights lodging at a gorgeous beach villa or resort (pending availability)
Round trip flights from POS to Tobago and airport transfers
Breakfasts and Dinners
A personalized, tailored itinerary of coaching and reflection activities
A separate 50-minute call prior to departure
Six 50-minute 1:1 coaching sessions with Stephanie
Snorkeling Trip*
A follow up coaching call within thirty days of returning home
* Note: the snorkeling trip is not private and will be with other travelers. This trip is also subject to weather and other uncontrollable variables.
What is not included
Additional activities (boat rides, town excursions, and so forth); these can be coordinated directly with the resort or we can refer you to a local guide (separate expense).
Lunches
Alcoholic beverages
Personal items (souvenirs, phone calls, and so forth)
FAQ's
What is included in my registration?
An experience of a lifetime! Please refer to our itinerary outlined above. We are committed to providing everything needed during your experience – from lodging to meals to activities to any miscellaneous fees. Personal items (such as phone calls, souvenirs, etc) will be your separate costs.
I need a roommate – how do I arrange that?
If you prefer to share accommodations, we will do our best to match you with another solo traveler of the same gender. Generally this option is easy to do, and can be a great way to bond with another traveler. If for some reason our shared accommodations are full or another single traveler of the same gender is not available, you would be required to take a single room at the regular single room cost.
Will I have access to the Internet?
Yes, during most of the trip. There is internet access throughout the retreat center and at most of our venues. However, when we are on the river in boats, or in other more remote areas, internet or cell service may be more limited. We suggest contacting your phone carrier to inquire about options while you travel.
Where do I fly into?
Do I need a visa?
No — You only need a passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay. This means your passport must not expire before September 23, 2026.
Is there transportation from the airport to the retreat venue?
Yes! We will have airport transportation waiting for you with a bottle of water in hand.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes — our private chefs can accommodate gluten free and vegetarian diets. If you have a special concern, please reach out to us. Please note: during our meals with local community members, we have less control of the types of food available, but will do our best to accommodate any diet restrictions during these events. Trinidad and Tobago is famous for its cuisine across the Caribbean and throughout Central America – a genuine feast for the senses.
Is it safe to travel to Trinidad and Tobago?
Like any location, your safety and security are extremely important. Our Retreat Center is gated, locked, and regularly monitored by local law enforcement. We will be in safe, private transportation at all times, and will remain vigilant of travel advisories. Crime can be a challenge in parts of Trinidad and Tobago, and we strongly recommend leaving your valuables at home.
What is the weather like?
Expect warm Caribbean temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to upper 80s. All bedrooms are air-conditioned, providing a comfortable night’s rest. We recommend you dress in loose cotton pants, shorts, dresses, or shirts.
What do I pack?
We will be providing a detailed packing list as part of our preparation. One optional item will be cultural wear for the Eid al-Fitr celebration; we’ll be discussing options for this event in January.
Destination Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies
Nestled at the southernmost tip of the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago is a captivating blend of raw natural beauty, cultural rhythm, and unfiltered authenticity. From Trinidad’s lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant capital city of Port of Spain, to Tobago’s pristine beaches, coral reefs, and laid-back island charm, the twin-island nation offers a rare fusion of adventure and tranquility. This is a place where steelpan music was born, where the air pulses with the energy of Carnival, and where every corner reveals a new flavor, festival, or face eager to share a story.
Yet beyond its tropical allure lies something even more magnetic — the spirit of the people. Warm, diverse, and deeply connected to their roots, Trinbagonians embody a joy of life that’s contagious. Whether you’re savoring doubles from a street vendor, exploring centuries-old cocoa estates, or dancing barefoot to soca on the sand, you’ll find yourself drawn into a rhythm that awakens the senses and soothes the soul. In Trinidad and Tobago, every moment feels like discovery — a reminder that paradise isn’t just a place, it’s a feeling.