Beyond the Ordinary: Tile and Design Immersion in Mexico

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE RETREAT

Clay Imports invites trade members to a rare opportunity: a three-day immersive retreat in San Miguel de Allende to explore the rich tradition of tile making.

You’ll take part in hands-on workshops and receive exclusive studio access, offering an inside look at our design process and the stories behind our work. Immerse yourself in this charming city’s vibrant artistic culture alongside fellow trade professionals (designers, architects, builders..), and spend meaningful time with the Clay Imports team throughout the experience.

*Lodging and flights excluded.

Go the Behind-The-Scenes

DIVE DEEP INTO THE CRAFT OF HANDMADE TILE

Connect directly with our artisans and design team at Clay SMA, our creative studio in San Miguel, while taking part in guided workshops where you’ll experiment with clay, glaze, and pattern-making. This retreat gives you professional insight into how tradition, craft, and modern design thinking converge within Mexican tile-making, architecture, and interior design.

All of it set against the vibrant backdrop of Día de Muertos celebrations in the city.

TILE TRAVEL

FAQ

What is "Tile Travels"?

Tile Travels is an immersive three-day retreat hosted by Clay Imports at our design hub in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

Members of the Clay Imports Trade Program are invited to engage in hands-on ceramic workshops, gain behind-the-scenes insight into Clay Imports’ design processes, and take part in curated cultural and culinary experiences that highlight the creative spirit of San Miguel de Allende.

> Book here (coming soon.)

> Get notified when registration opens.

How do I book the Tile Travels Experience?

Book here (coming soon.)

After reserving your spot, Clay Imports will send you a Release and Waiver agreement for your signature. You must sign the Release and Waiver agreement within 72 hours to confirm the booking.

After receiving the signed Release and Waiver agreement, Clay Imports will follow up with the final order confirmation. Your booking is NOT complete until receipt of the final order confirmation.

What's covered in the retreat package?

The retreat package is quite comprehensive! It includes classes, excursions, meals as outlined in the itinerary, ground transportation to all program events, and an exclusive look into Clay Imports' design and tile production processes. Breakfasts, lunches, and on-site dinners included.

However, please note that accommodation, flight tickets, airport transportation, travel insurance, and any personal expenses are not included in the package.

Who can join?

This retreat is open to members of the Clay Imports trade program.

The group typically includes 10-12 Tile Travelers and the Clay Imports team.

What's on the itinerary?

Artist workshop visits with behind-the-scenes access, hands-on tile-making sessions, mezcal tastings, authentic culinary experiences, and Día de Muertos events that connect design with one of Mexico's most iconic celebrations. See the itinerary here.

Where can I stay?

Stay at Clay SMA
At Clay Imports' design studio and residence, Clay SMA, each room features a queen bed, a private bathroom with a shower, and stunning views of the San Miguel outskirts.
Rooms at Clay SMA are limited and first come first serve. Book here (available soon.)

Stay in the city of San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel offers a variety of stunning boutique hotels and lovely Airbnbs.
If you'd like to stay close by, the retreat will take place in the Fraccionamiento La Lomita. Feel free to reach out for accommodation suggestions!

Can I choose my own accommodation?

Absolutely! San Miguel has some of the best boutique hotels and many lovely short term rentals. You have the freedom to pick your preferred lodging or stay at the retreat site Clay SMA.

The Retreat will take place in the Fraccionamiento La Lomita. Feel free to reach out for accommodation suggestions!

Which airport should I fly into?

You have two convenient options:

  1. Del Bajío International Airport (BJX)
  2. Querétaro International Airport (QRO)

From there, we recommend coordinating airport transportation with Bajiogo.

For those staying at Clay SMA, airport transportation from either BJX or QRO is included.

What additional costs should I anticipate?

Not included in the registration costs are

  • Flights & Airport Transportation
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Meals other than those included in the itinerary
  • Ground transportation to the Clay SMA studio (if you're not staying at Clay SMA)
  • Any visa costs (for U.S. citizens, tourist visa are typically included in flight ticket price)
  • Lodging

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

Clay Imports reserves the right to cancel the retreat if minimum participation is not met or if unforeseen circumstances arise. In this case, all registered participants will receive a full refund. Please note that participant-initiated cancellations are non-refundable.

Hear it from former Tile Travelers

"I love your SMA home/retreat nest, and truly appreciate experiencing the factories and all of the workers and collaborators you all work with."

"We had the best time - I haven't stopped telling everyone about it since we returned!"

"I had a fabulous time and can’t wait to return to SMA."

"Our minds are blown from this amazing Tile Travels trip with @clayimports🧡 truly an incredible experience immersed with culture & craftsmanship, and new friendships that will last a lifetime. What an honor."

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