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They started calling themselves the 48-hour besties. But I saw the connection start at hour one. A Story That Speaks to Something Bigger Three women met at a Camp Joy retreat last September. In November, 2025, one of them flew across the a border to join the others in their hometown for a reunion. I was lying in bed in Zihuatanejo, Mexico after a 'work' day confirming a magical beach lunch location for our next Camp Joy retreat, when suddenly my WhatsApp began buzzing. I answ

For decades, I have been a caregiver. I am the mother of two remarkable children, now 20 and 24. My son J is a sensitive, intuitive, intelligent soul who touches the hearts of everyone he meets. He has Down Syndrome, Autism, and epilepsy, and it is the seizures that pose the greatest daily challenge. He requires 24/7 care and support in all areas of life. Through grace, we have been blessed with a village of caregivers who are his friends, chosen family, advocates, and commun

This blog highlights Camp Joy Zihuatanejo as a women’s transformational retreat offering a warm mid-winter reset through sunshine, ocean, slow mornings, curated experiences, and the Inner Joy program. It emphasizes connection, clarity, and the lasting transformation women take home, positioning the retreat as a standout option for those seeking a women’s wellness, mindfulness, and travel experience in a soulful, luxury setting.

We can’t control what happens in the world, or even in our inbox, but we can  choose how we show up to meet it. Science shows that just 20 intentional minutes in the morning can set the tone for your entire day - lowering stress, sharpening focus, and boosting happiness. It’s a ritual that reconnects you to what really matters: your own joy. That’s why we’re bringing The Morning Joy Ritual  to Camp Joy in 2026, a simple, science-backed practice designed to align your mind, b

Zihuatanejo is unlike any other oceanside town in Mexico—just as Camp Joy is unlike any other women’s retreat. Together, they create a soulful week of joy, connection, and cultural immersion. At Camp Joy Zihuatanejo, you’ll experience authentic local traditions, vibrant community, and breathtaking coastal beauty—all woven into a retreat designed for women who want more than just a vacation.

Camp Joy Women’s Retreat is a luxury farm-to-table experience where women connect with themselves, each other, and the destination. Our women’s retreat in Provence, Zihuatanejo, and the Cotswolds celebrates local cuisine, mindful eating, and joyful community.

I just spent three weeks in Zihuatanejo, and it reminded me—yet again—why this place is so special. Zihua has always been a fishing town...

Caregiving doesn’t always come with a title—but its weight is real. In this deeply personal reflection, Monique shares her journey caring for her mother with dementia, the silent toll it took, and the moment she finally felt seen. She also introduces Camp Joy’s new Caregiver Bursary—created to offer space, connection, and healing for women who give so much of themselves to others.

Joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s a chemical shift in the body. When we slow down, connect with others, move, create, and celebrate, we naturally boost serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins. These “happy chemicals” help us feel grounded, energized, and connected. The best part? We can learn to activate them on purpose—making joy a practice, not a coincidence.

By Monique Kavanagh Lately, I’ve been thinking about the quiet power of women—how we show up for each other, often without needing to be...

When we dreamed up Camp Joy, we imagined sunshine, laughter, meaningful moments, and a little sparkle. What we didn’t expect was just how...

Have you convinced yourself that “head in hands” is a new yoga pose? Let’s face it—if your daily “stretch” involves sitting at your desk...

We’ve spent years dreaming up our perfect day in Zihuatanejo—our special magic place. For each of us, it looks a little different, but...

Over the past ten years, I’ve been on a quiet but transformative journey. It began slowly—almost by accident—as a way to find calm in the...

As I wrap up this planning trip for Camp Joy, I’ve landed in Avignon for a final afternoon and evening—and I have to say, it’s the...

As I drove through the hills of Provence today, one thing made me smile—even while I was mid-stress: No one attending Camp Joy will ever...

At Camp Joy, we like to walk the talk—literally. Monique is currently in Cotignac scouting the trails and finalizing the little...

Credit: solotravelerworld.com There’s something transformational about stepping out into the world on your own. Solo travel isn’t just...

Whether you’re counting down to Camp Joy or dreaming of your own Provençal escape, there’s nothing like a good book to set the mood....