Overview
Dominica is often called the Nature Island of the Caribbean, but for this retreat, it becomes something even more meaningful: a place to rethink our relationship with food, health, and the way we care for ourselves. Led by renowned cardiologist, professional chef, and culinary medicine expert Dr. Mike Fenster, this immersive retreat blends evidence-based wellness with the rich culinary traditions and wild beauty of Dominica. Chef Dr. Mike brings a refreshingly practical approach to health, helping us better understand the connection between food, movement, longevity, and everyday well-being through experiences that feel approachable, grounded, and deeply enjoyable. Throughout the week, we move beyond lectures and into lived experience. Think hands-on culinary sessions using fresh island ingredients, meaningful conversations around the table, visits to local farms and markets, and opportunities to explore how culture, community, and food shape health in ways we often overlook. You will gain practical insights into nutrition and longevity while also slowing down enough to actually enjoy the process. Beyond the culinary experiences, Dominica offers the perfect backdrop for restoration and adventure. Swim in warm Caribbean waters, hike to waterfalls tucked into lush rainforest, soak in natural hot springs, snorkel vibrant reefs, and experience a place where life still moves at a gentler pace. This retreat is designed for those who want more than information. It is for people who want to reconnect to what nourishment really looks like, return home inspired, and experience firsthand how food, travel, and community can become powerful tools for living well.
A One of a Kind Experience
Where Luxury Blends With Nature
We'll be staying at a boutique hotel situated in the hills of Dominica with views in one direction to the lush, volcanic peaks and views in the other direction overlooking Scotts Head marine sanctuary and the Caribbean Sea. There are two pools on the property that you can enjoy, as well as gardens full of edible plants and herbs.
Let's also talk about comfort. The rooms and suites have plush beds and are well-appointed and spacious. Each room has its own balcony and private, ensuite bathroom with natural and biodegradable body products provided.
The Experience
All-Inclusive
One of the best parts? You do not need to plan a thing once you arrive. This is a fully curated, all-inclusive experience where meals, experiences, transportation, and meaningful moments are woven together for you. It gives you the freedom to settle in, be cared for, and simply enjoy what unfolds each day.
Culinary Medicine with Chef Dr. Mike
Culinary Medicine is an evidence-based field that blends the art of cooking with the science of health to help people make enjoyable, sustainable food choices that support well-being. Unlike traditional nutritionism—which often reduces food to calories, vitamins, fats, or carbohydrates—culinary medicine recognizes that food is more than the sum of its nutrients. It considers how foods are prepared, combined, shared, and experienced within the context of culture, community, and everyday life. Rather than prescribing restrictive diets or focusing on single nutrients, culinary medicine emphasizes whole foods, culinary skills, and practical strategies that empower individuals to create healthier relationships with food. It asks not simply, “What nutrients are in this meal?” but also, “How does this food fit into a healthy and meaningful life?” At its heart, culinary medicine is about bringing joy, flavor, and connection back to eating while using the best available science to promote health. By integrating cooking, culture, and clinical evidence, culinary medicine offers a more holistic approach to nourishment—one that moves beyond nutritionism and recognizes food as an essential part of human experience, well-being, and healing. Throughout the retreat, Dr. Mike will bring this work to life through engaging discussions, immersive culinary experiences, and real-world applications inspired by the local culture and ingredients of Dominica.
Meals
Meals and food are a true highlight and the focus of this trip. We will be staying at a luxurious eco-resort that offers incredible, carefully crafted meals so you can experience numerous variations of flavorful Caribbean cuisine with the freshest ingredients. Focus on high-quality, nourishing, whole ingredients is a key part of the experience. Dietary needs can be accommodated.
Digital Detox
This is your chance to step back from the noise. Here, away from pressure and the constant buzz of everyday life, there is space to reconnect: with yourself, with others, and with the environment around you. There is no right way to unplug. You choose what feels supportive based on where you are and what you need right now.
Edible Garden Tour
The extensive grounds at our eco-resort are home to thriving edible gardens, many of which supply ingredients used in the meals thoughtfully prepared by the chefs. As we wander through the gardens, we’ll discover the variety of produce and herbs grown on the island while gaining a deeper understanding of the roots and flavors that shape Caribbean cuisine.
Herbal Tea & Plant Medicine
Our herbal tea and plant medicine experience is rooted in the plants growing around us, right on the property where we are staying. Together, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of how herbs have long been used in Dominica for nourishment, healing, and everyday ritual.
Waterfall Hikes
Dominica gets its nickname, the Nature Island, from the numerous volcanoes, waterfalls and the dense rainforest that covers the island. It's paradise for people that love outdoor adventures. Our waterfall hikes take us to two different parts of the island, each revealing a different side of Dominica’s wild beauty. We’ll discover cascades spilling into crystal-clear pools, others glowing shades of turquoise, and one unforgettable waterfall where natural hot spring pools rest just below the falls, inviting us to pause and soak in the rainforest surroundings.
Rainforest Cooking Class
After learning about key ingredients in Caribbean cuisine through our edible garden tour and plant medicine experience, we’ll see these ingredients in action during a hands-on cooking class. Set in an open-air space in the rainforest, we’ll learn how to prepare several highlights of Caribbean cuisine while gaining a deeper appreciation for the flavors, ingredients, and traditions that shape the island’s food culture.
Kalinango Territory Visit
The Kalinago are one of the last remaining Indigenous communities in the Caribbean, with deep cultural traditions that continue to be practiced and passed down through generations. During our visit, we’ll gain insight into traditions such as cassava preparation, herbal medicine, and basket weaving while learning about the care and time required to prepare cassava, a staple woven into the island’s history. We also spend time exploring part of the Kalinago Territory, known for its lush landscapes and dramatic coastline, including areas featured in the filming of Pirates of the Caribbean.
Cacao Farm
In the northern part of the island, we’ll visit one of the last commercially operating cacao farms in Dominica. Here, we see the unique cacao trees, where colorful pods grow directly from the trunk and branches, and gain insight into the harvesting, fermentation, and drying processes that bring cacao from tree to cup. Back at our eco-resort, we’ll enjoy the fruits of this labor with a cup of traditional Dominican cocoa tea, a warm and comforting drink made with locally grown cacao and island spices.
Scott's Head Hike
Scotts Head is especially unique because it sits where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating a striking contrast in color and currents below. From above, we’ll take in sweeping views across Soufrière Bay, the Caribbean Sea, and Dominica’s rugged volcanic interior from a place that once served as a strategic lookout point over the island’s southern coastline.
Beach Picnic
Following our hike up Scott's Head, we'll head to the beach to enjoy sunset and have a delicious seafood barbecue on the beach. Enjoy the sound of the surf, sunset and the company of others in the group while we enjoy incredible, fresh seafood prepared by our resort's chefs.
Balance
Our carefully curated itinerary leaves space for adventure, connection, relaxation, exploring and learning.
Authenticity
Dominica is an island full of lush, tropical rainforest, waterfalls, beaches and adventure. Its produce is exported to many surrounding Caribbean islands and it is known for a wide variety of produce as well as indigenous traditions for preparing food.
We Give Back
A portion of proceeds will support the Kalinago Territory Council, helping preserve and strengthen the traditions, culture, and livelihoods of Dominica’s Indigenous Kalinago people, the Caribbean’s last remaining pre-Columbian Indigenous community living on communally protected land. For us, supporting the Kalinago community feels deeply connected to the spirit of this journey. Culinary medicine is not only about what we eat, but about understanding the relationship between culture, land, tradition, and well-being. Through this contribution, we hope to support the preservation of Indigenous knowledge, cultural heritage, and community-led initiatives that honor the people who have stewarded this island for generations.
Accommodation
Double Occupancy: Lush Garden View Villa
Share a King bed with a partner or have the room setup with two Twin beds to share with a friend in a spacious, luxurious villa with a patio. The villas have lofted Caribbean-style ceilings and bamboo furnishings. Enjoy views over the lush jungle of Dominica.
FROM$3,800.00/pp
Double Occupancy: Partial Ocean View Villa
Share a King bed with a partner or have the room setup with two Twin beds to share with a friend in a spacious, luxurious villa with a patio! The luxurious villas have lofted Caribbean-style ceilings, bamboo furnishings and spacious patios. This villa overlooks the marine sanctuary of Scotts Head and Soufriere.
FROM$4,200.00/pp
Single Occupancy: Lush Garden View Villa
Have a luxurious villa and patio all to yourself! The villas have lofted Caribbean-style ceilings and bamboo furnishings. Enjoy views over the jungle of Dominica.
FROM$4,950.00/pp
Single Occupancy: Partial Ocean View Villa
Enjoy a room and patio to yourself!The luxurious villas have lofted Caribbean-style ceilings, bamboo furnishings and spacious patios. This villa overlooks the marine sanctuary of Scotts Head and Soufriere.
FROM$5,400.00/pp
Itinerary
Previous
Next
A Typical Day
AM
Breakfast
Morning Activity:
- Monday - edible garden tour
- Tuesday - waterfall or hot springs excursion
- Wednesday - herbal tea & plant medicine class
- Thursday - waterfall hike
- Friday - cacao farm visit and Kalinango Territory experience
- Saturday - free morning
Lunch
PM
Afternoon Free Time (perfect for enjoying the resort or beach or doing other excursions)
Optional CME coursework
Group Dinner, including one cooking class and one beach sunset hike and picnic
Free time blocks provide ample time to relax or find adventure.
We remember to go with the flow and enjoy a slower pace of life in Dominica. Activities may be switched from morning to afternoon depending on weather and other factors.
What's included
What's Included
Pre-trip & Logistics Support
Transportation to and from Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM)
All meals
Edible garden tour
Culinary medicine classes
Cacao farm tour
Kalinango Territory visit
Cooking class
Waterfall hike
Scott's Head hike and picnic
Arrival gift
What's Not Included
Roundtrip airfare to DOM
Travel insurance (we have recommendations for you to explore)
Any meals during traveling that take place before or after you meet the group
Specialty drinks (smoothies or alcoholic beverages)
Additional Activities or Spa Services
Hosts
Our retreats are led by a small, collaborative host team that combines subject-matter expertise with thoughtful, on-the-ground support. Together, we create an experience that feels well organized, welcoming, and easy to settle into.
Chef Dr. Mike
Michael Fenster, MD, better known as Chef Dr. Mike, is a board-certified Interventional Cardiologist, Professor of Culinary Medicine, professional chef, TEDx speaker, and one of the pioneering voices in culinary medicine.
Widely recognized as a rare bridge between the worlds of medicine and food, Chef Dr. Mike combines evidence-based science with a deep belief that healthy living should feel enjoyable, flavorful, and sustainable.
Chef Dr. Mike has taught Culinary Medicine at the university level, developed a Culinary Medicine Certification Program, and spoken nationally on topics ranging from heart health and longevity to food culture and lifestyle medicine. His work challenges the common belief that healthy eating must be restrictive or joyless. Instead, he helps people understand how food, movement, environment, and community shape long-term wellness in ways that are practical and deeply personal.
His philosophy is simple: healthy food should still taste incredible, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to wellness. Through immersive culinary experiences, engaging discussions, and real-world application, Chef Dr. Mike helps people move beyond fad diets and toward a healthier relationship with food that actually fits their life.
When he is not in the operating room, teaching, speaking, or in the kitchen, Chef Dr. Mike spends his time exploring the Montana mountains with his wife Jennifer and their rescue pups.
Amy Heinemann
Amy is an avid traveler and loves hiking and other outdoor adventures, food and architecture. She grew up doing long road trips with her family to explore national parks in the US and Canada and has carried this excitement about wide open spaces into adulthood.
Her favorite way to discover new countries and cultures is through their culinary traditions, markets and natural landscapes.
After prior careers in the environmental field and finance, she decided to take a break from her corporate job in NYC and has been traveling around the world - mostly organizing solo adventures and trips with friends. In total, she has visited 142 countries and her favorite Caribbean island is Dominica!
When she's not traveling, she spends time at her home base in Antigua in the Caribbean, doing lots of baking, paddleboarding, discovering new hiking trails and diving.
Gallery
FAQs
What is the cancellation policy?
Deposits are refundable for 10 days.
If cancellation occurs more than 120 days prior to the retreat start date, you will receive a 100% refund, less the deposit.
Cancel 90-120 days prior to retreat start date and receive a 50% refund, less the deposit.
Cancel 46-90 days prior to the retreat start date and receive a 25% refund, less the deposit.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations that occur 45 or fewer days before the retreat start date.
However, we CAN apply any amount paid toward a future AWAY retreat!
What is the payment policy?
A 25% deposit is required to reserve your spot on the retreat.
The remaining balance is due 120 days before the retreat start date.
Please reach out if you'd like to chat about a payment plan that might work better for you.
Is everything really optional?
Yes! This is your trip. Every scheduled activity is available to you, and you are in no way pressured to join any or all of them.
There is freedom in doing what you would personally like to do, each day.
Can my dietary needs be accommodated?
Yes! There are options for vegetarians, pescatarians, omnivores and carnivores alike.
Gluten-free diets can be accommodated as well.
Are vaccinations recommended or required?
You may read about the current CDC recommendations and guidelines here.
Is there WIFI?
Yes. While it’s nice to unplug from the outside world, many of us have lives at home that require some communication.
We understand. There is WIFI in rooms and around the property.
May I see a list of available activities in the area?
If you'd like to schedule one of the many activities that are offered around the island, we're here to help!
Check out the noncomprehensive list below:
- Massage/Spa Services
- Scuba Diving / Snorkeling
- Boiling Lake hike
Why do you require travel insurance?
As experienced travelers who’ve learned to expect the unexpected, we require travel insurance.
Travel insurance helps protect your investment in the retreat and provides coverage for unexpected events such as illness, injury, family emergencies, travel delays, lost luggage, or trip interruptions.
Because retreat payments are subject to our cancellation policy, we require all guests to carry travel insurance so they have protection if plans change unexpectedly. It's best practice to purchase a policy shortly after booking (and we provide a recommended insurance provider in your confirmation email).
What is on the packing list?
You'll receive a packing list which will include things like:
✔ Swimsuits
✔ Lightweight dresses, shirts, shorts & pants
✔ Sun hat & sunglasses
✔ Hiking sandals or walking shoes
✔ Activewear for excursions
...and not much else!
Can you tell me about the partial ocean view rooms?
Because the landscape is such a special part of the property, all ocean view rooms are categorized as "Partial Ocean View."
These rooms offer sea views framed by palms and tropical foliage.
Add Ons
Culinary Medicine Certificate
There is also the unique opportunity to get a culinary medicine certificate through a 3-credit course offered through the University of Montana while on the trip. Lectures for this certificate will take place in the evenings. Participants will have the opportunity to earn a Culinary Medicine Certificate taught by renowned cardiologist, professional chef, and culinary medicine expert Dr. Mike Fenster. Developed from a university-level curriculum he has previously taught, this certificate explores the intersection of food, health, culture, and lifestyle through an evidence-based lens. Rather than focusing on restrictive diets or complicated nutrition plans, culinary medicine asks a more meaningful question: how can food become a practical, joyful tool for living well? Topics may include the science of longevity, the gut microbiome, food quality, culinary traditions, and the role that movement, connection, and environment play in long-term wellness. Participants will leave not only with a certificate, but with practical tools, fresh inspiration, and a deeper understanding of how everyday choices can support a healthier, more vibrant life....
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FROM$795.00/pp
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