Wanderlust Retreat Week: A Literary Adventure of Books, Writers & Unforgettable Experiences

October 23–November 2, 2026 | Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

What happens when you bring authors, readers, travellers, and creative minds together in one of Mexico's most beautiful coastal cities? A celebration of storytelling, friendship, culture, and unforgettable experiences!

🌴 Friday, October 23: Welcome Mixer on the Beach

Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Happy Hour!) Location: Langostinos Restaurant, Playa Los Muertos Who: Wanderlust authors and guests

Join Teena and friends at Langostinos Restaurant, right on beautiful Playa Los Muertos, for a relaxed evening by the ocean. Whether you've just arrived in Puerto Vallarta or you're already enjoying paradise, come unwind, catch up with friends, enjoy a drink, and ease into the Wanderlust celebrations. It's a casual get-together, the perfect way to kick off a wonderful week of literary adventures, fun, and friendship!

🎙️ Saturday, October 24: Author Meet & Greet and Live Radio Interviews

Time: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

Location: The Living Room Bookstore & Café, Puerto Vallarta

Featuring: Jessy Ruiz from Asphalt Radio

Join us at The Living Room Bookstore & Café for an exciting morning of books, conversation, and live author interviews! Meet the authors of the Wanderlust Chronicles series, hear about their writing journeys, and discover the real-life adventures that inspired their stories. Jessy Ruiz from Asphalt Radio will be conducting live interviews, giving authors an opportunity to share their experiences and connect with the Puerto Vallarta community. Come meet the writers, discover some wonderful books, and learn more about our upcoming Gala!

✨ Sunday, October 25: Wanderlust Puerto Vallarta 2026, A Literary & Community Gala

Time: 4:00–9:30 PM Location: Oscar's Restaurant, Isla Cuale, Puerto Vallarta General Admission: $250 MXN at the door Benefiting: Vallarta School for Girls

The highlight of our Wanderlust celebrations! Join us for Wanderlust Puerto Vallarta 2026: A Literary & Community Gala, a special afternoon and evening celebrating books, authors, music, community, and the power of storytelling. Held at beautiful Oscar's Restaurant on Isla Cuale, the Gala brings together authors, readers, local businesses, sponsors, residents, and visitors for an unforgettable celebration.

An Evening of Literary Inspiration & Entertainment

Our celebration begins at 4:00 PM with a Mix & Mingle, giving guests time to meet the authors, browse books, visit community and sponsor tables, enjoy a drink, and explore the silent auction.

At 5:00 PM, our featured speakers will take the stage, sharing their stories, experiences, and perspectives. Throughout the evening, enjoy live music from SHADRACK, bringing an energetic mix of country, classic rock, and R&B. The Gala also marks the official launch of Expats: Living the Dream, the second book in the Wanderlust Chronicles anthology series, featuring inspiring stories of women who have embraced life beyond borders.

Celebrating Community & Giving Back

We're proud to support the Vallarta School for Girls, with 100% of silent auction proceeds benefiting the school, along with additional fundraising through the event. Join us for an evening of connection, creativity, entertainment, and celebration, all while supporting a meaningful local cause.

General Admission is $250 MXN at the door. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

🏖️ Monday, October 26: Mismaloya Beach Day

Time: 12:00–5:00 PM Location: Mismaloya Beach, Puerto Vallarta Open to: Everyone

After the excitement of our Literary & Community Gala, it's time for a little fun in the sun!

Join us for a relaxing afternoon at beautiful Mismaloya Beach, one of Puerto Vallarta's most scenic coastal destinations. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sunshine, swimming in the ocean, enjoying water activities, treating yourself to a beachside massage, or simply relaxing with fellow Wanderlust guests. It's a wonderful opportunity to unwind, enjoy the spectacular surroundings, and spend some quality time connecting with new and old friends. Come for the beach, stay for the company, and enjoy another beautiful day in paradise!

✍️ Tuesday, October 27: Writers Workshop, Show, Don't Tell & Self-Publishing

Hosted by Plumas Azules Writers Group of Puerto Vallarta

Time: 12:00–2:00 PM Fee: $500 MXN Location: The Living Room Bookstore & Café, Colombia 1377, 5 de diciembre, Puerto Vallarta Bring: Notebook and pen

Bring your writing to life by engaging the five senses! This interactive workshop explores the art of show, don't tell through descriptive language, detailed imagery, and vivid scenes incorporating sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. Examples will be provided, followed by a travel- or Day of the Dead-inspired writing prompt designed to get your creativity flowing. There will also be an opportunity to share your writing with the group.

Thinking About Self-Publishing?

Join Teena Clipston, Publisher and Creative Director of Clipston Publishing, for an informative introduction to the world of self-publishing. Learn about editing, book preparation, ISBNs, formatting, cover design, distribution platforms, publishing timelines, costs, and the steps you can take now to prepare your manuscript for publication. Come with questions and leave with a clearer understanding of what it takes to move from manuscript to published author.

Registration: Contact Kimberly at +52 322-101-3963 or kimberlylorraine310@gmail.com. Payment is also accepted at the door.

🚶‍♀️ Wednesday, October 28: Writers Walkabout & Open Mic Night

Hosted by Plumas Azules Writers Group of Puerto Vallarta

Time: 5:00–9:00 PM Writers Walkabout: 5:00–7:00 PM Open Mic Night: 7:00–9:00 PM Fee: $500 MXN for the Walkabout and Open Mic experience Walkabout Location: Puerto Vallarta's Malecón and Historic District Open Mic Venue: Nacho Daddy, Basilio Badillo 287, Zona Romántica Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, notebook, and pen

Experience Puerto Vallarta through a writer's eyes! Our Writers Walkabout combines cultural exploration with creative writing as we wander through the Malecón and historic district, discovering inspiration in the sights, sounds, flavours, and stories of the city. Along the way, we'll explore local landmarks, including ChocoMuseo, Huichol art, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Cultural Center. Savour cacao, discover local culture, taste local fare, and pause for stream-of-consciousness writing inspired by our surroundings. This interactive experience is guided by the founder of Plumas Azules Writers Group, together with a renowned local chef.

🎤 Then We're Heading to Open Mic Night at Nacho Daddy!

When the Walkabout ends, the evening continues at Nacho Daddy in Puerto Vallarta's Zona Romántica, with food, drinks, conversation, and creativity. Calling all poets, authors, musicians, comedians, storytellers, and spoken-word performers! Each participant will have up to six minutes to share their work. Read an excerpt, perform a song, tell a story, share a poem, or make us laugh. Whether you're a seasoned performer or taking the microphone for the first time, we'd love to hear from you. A microphone and speakers will be provided. Musicians should bring their own instruments, and guests purchase their own food and beverages.

Join us for the Walkabout, meet us for Open Mic Night, or enjoy both experiences.

Registration: Contact Kimberly at +52 322-101-3963 or kimberlylorraine310@gmail.com.

🌺 Thursday, October 29: Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Time: 10:00 AM

Location: Vallarta Botanical Garden

Fee: Approximately $600 MXN, including entrance and transportation

RSVP Required

Take a break from the city and join us for a day surrounded by the tropical beauty of Puerto Vallarta.

Our visit to the Botanical Gardens is an opportunity to explore, connect with fellow writers and guests, enjoy the natural surroundings, and find a little inspiration along the way. Whether you come for the gardens, the conversation, or simply a beautiful day out, this is another opportunity to experience the magic of Puerto Vallarta.

Registration: Email Teena Clipston at teena@clipstonpublishing.com to reserve your place.

🏖️ Friday, October 30: Beach Day Book Club

Time: 12:00–3:00 PM Location: Playa Los Muertos, Puerto Vallarta (message us for the venue!)

Books. Beach. Sunshine. Good conversation. What could be better? Join us for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean with fellow writers, readers, and book lovers. Bring a favourite book, the one you're currently reading, or something you've been meaning to finish. Pack your towel, sunscreen, and hat, and settle in for an afternoon of reading and conversation. We'll make time to talk about what we're reading. Introduce your book, share a favourite character or passage, and tell us why you would, or wouldn't, recommend it. Come for the books. Stay for the beach, conversation, and community!

Registration: Email Teena Clipston at teena@clipstonpublishing.com or Kimberly at kimberlylorraine310@gmail.com (+52 322-101-396) to reserve your place.

💀 Stay Longer for Day of the Dead Festivities!

October 31–November 2, 2026 Location: Various Locations Throughout Puerto Vallarta Activities: Community Events

Why not extend your stay and experience one of Mexico's most beautiful and meaningful cultural celebrations? Puerto Vallarta comes alive during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with colourful altars, music, art, traditional celebrations, and community festivities honouring loved ones who have passed. It's a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Mexican culture and make even more unforgettable memories before heading home.

Stay a little longer and experience the magic of Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta!