Guests will stay in accommodations located either on the Pioneers campus or at the Holiday Inn adjacent to the campus. Rooms are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Following registration, the CNS team will contact attendees to confirm room assignments and lodging details.

For Orlando-area residents, we also offer a commuter rate. This option includes full access to all cooking workshops, meals, lectures, and retreat activities, without overnight accommodations.

Check-in starts at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, followed by dinner and a welcome reception. The retreat will conclude at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 18.

Registration includes four nights, three full days, six hands-on cooking classes, and all meals.

Yes, participants will have access to Wi-Fi.

Everyone will be cooking and enjoying each meal together. All the meals will be whole food, plant-based with no added oil. Minimal amounts of sweeteners and salts will be used. If you have dietary questions, please reach out to us at ecapo@nutritionstudies.org

Outside of our cooking classes, attendees can enjoy the peaceful grounds of the Pioneers campus and explore some of Orlando’s nearby natural and cultural gems during their free time. Optional yoga and mindfulness sessions will be offered to support relaxation and presence throughout the retreat. In the evenings, there will be opportunities to play games, participate in optional group sharing circles, and connect with one another—creating the perfect blend of relaxation, enjoyment, and community.

Transportation & Arrival
Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the retreat. Once on site, no driving is required, as lodging, cooking classes, and retreat activities are all located within the Pioneers campus.

For those flying in, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is just 10 miles away—approximately 16 minutes without traffic—making arrival and departure simple and convenient.

Cancellations received in writing 48 hours after registration, will be refunded the full registration fee, less a 10% administrative fee. No refunds will be issued thereafter. Substitute participants will be accepted up to the start date of the event.

April is one of the most pleasant times of year in Orlando. Expect generally warm, comfortable days with lower humidity than the summer months. Average daytime temperatures typically range from the low to mid-80s°F (around 20–29°C), with cooler evenings in the mid-60s°F (around 18–20°C).

We recommend checking the forecast closer to the retreat dates, as temperatures can vary slightly. Light layers are helpful for mornings, evenings, and indoor spaces, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors or participate in early morning activities.

The retreat is casual and relaxed, so pack clothing that is comfortable for cooking, movement, and social time.

Suggested items include:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days
• Comfortable shoes for walking around campus
• A light jacket or sweater for evenings or air-conditioned spaces
• Activewear if you plan to join optional yoga or mindfulness sessions
• Comfortable footwear or slippers to wear in your room

Rain showers are possible in Florida, so a compact rain jacket or umbrella is always a good idea.

If you enjoy taking notes, we recommend bringing a notebook and a pen or an electronic device. We will provide all essential kitchen tools, including aprons, cutting boards, and knives. A reusable water bottle is encouraged—it helps reduce waste, cuts down on dishwashing, and is convenient to have with you as you move around campus or spend time outdoors.