Two sisters leave the corporate world behind to create a peaceful sanctuary in the Caribbean.
Life in the corporate world was never meant to be permanent for Raneem and Naseem. While navigating the fast-paced environment of Toronto’s tech industry, they began to feel the toll of burnout, trapped in the cycle of deadlines and high expectations. What began as a shared dream, leaving the busy life of the city for something deeper and more fulfilling, led them to create The Lighthouse Retreat on Little Corn Island, Nicaragua.
In a world that constantly demands more, the sisters decided to slow down, listen to their hearts, and follow a vision based on community, sustainability, and peace. “We didn’t just create a retreat; we created a space where people can slow down, reconnect, and experience a sense of peace,” said Raneem. “Our goal is to help retreat leaders bring their visions to life, while offering guests a transformative journey in a serene environment.”
From Corporate Chaos to Island Serenity
Before founding The Lighthouse Retreat, Raneem’s life was worlds apart from the sun-kissed beaches and lush jungles of Little Corn Island. A former corporate tech professional, most recently with LinkedIn, Raneem spent years working long hours, attending endless meetings, and putting her personal life on hold. “Every performance review asked the same question: ‘Where do you see yourself in five years?’ My answer never changed; on a tropical island, hosting retreats, helping people reconnect with themselves,” she reflected. This dream, however, always seemed out of reach, until a defining moment in her life led to a bold decision.
Amid the stress of corporate burnout, Raneem and Naseem, both Palestinian-Canadian sisters, chose to act on their dream. “It felt like a fantasy… until life’s challenges pushed us to make a change,” Raneem recalled. They left behind city life, embracing the unknown.
When they arrived on Little Corn Island, they found an abandoned hotel hidden among the palm trees. It had been forgotten, but to the sisters, it held immense potential. They saw beyond the dilapidated buildings and envisioned a retreat, a space for people to escape the noise of the world and reconnect with nature, themselves, and each other.
“The Lighthouse wasn’t built from scratch, but we revived it with love,” Naseem said. “We wanted to create a space that mirrored the healing we experienced on the island.”
The Transformation of an Island Sanctuary
Turning the property into a retreat venue was far from easy. The sisters faced logistical challenges, from sourcing supplies on a small island to overcoming doubts from others who questioned their ability to succeed. Yet, the island community embraced them with open arms. Each challenge became a stepping stone, each moment of doubt reaffirming their decision to create something meaningful.
“It hasn’t been easy,” Raneem said. “Running a business in the Caribbean presents unique challenges especially on an island with no cars, where every supply is carried by hand. But every obstacle reminded us why we chose this path, to offer a safe, nourishing space for people to reconnect with themselves.”
Through perseverance and a shared commitment to their vision, The Lighthouse Retreat came to life. Today, it stands as the island’s only adults-only eco-retreat, offering guests a peaceful escape designed for mindfulness, relaxation, and connection. Guests can unwind in cozy wooden cabañas, savor farm-to-table meals made with fresh, local ingredients, and indulge in one-of-a-kind wellness treatments including the signature Take Me to Paradise chocolate massage crafted for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
A Community-Focused, Sustainable Paradise
What makes The Lighthouse Retreat on Little Corn Island unique is the sisters’ commitment to sustainability and community. The retreat operates with a deep sense of responsibility, avoiding single-use plastics, conserving energy, and sourcing fresh water from a well on the island. “We wanted to create an environment that’s not only beneficial for our guests but also good for the planet,” Naseem shared.
Their eco-conscious approach is reflected in their dedication to supporting the local community. The Lighthouse Retreat partners with local initiatives focused on education and wellness, ensuring that the surrounding area benefits from the business’s presence. This integration with the community gives the retreat an authentic, welcoming atmosphere.
As one guest, Cass Ty, described, “The two sisters running The Lighthouse Retreat feel like family, and they’re always ready to help you plan a memorable getaway!”
This blend of personalized care, sustainability, and community involvement has made The Lighthouse Retreat a sought-after destination for retreat leaders, solo travelers, and those seeking a transformative experience.
The Power of Women-Led Vision
Running a business as women entrepreneurs in a foreign country has its challenges, but for Raneem and Naseem, these obstacles have only strengthened their resolve. Their journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of women following their dreams. “When women choose courage over comfort, they create spaces that help others heal,” said Raneem, reflecting on their experience.
As a women-owned business, The Lighthouse Retreat has become a place of empowerment. The sisters’ determination and vision have not only transformed their own lives but are also providing opportunities for others to experience personal growth, connection, and healing.
A Transformational Experience for Guests
The Lighthouse Retreat isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a place where transformation happens. Whether it’s a solo traveler seeking peace, a yoga teacher leading a retreat, or a group looking for a digital detox, the retreat’s intimate, eco-conscious environment fosters deep connections and personal growth.
“We didn’t just buy a hotel,” Naseem explained. “We created a sanctuary for those looking to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with themselves and each other.”
For those seeking a unique and transformative retreat experience in the Caribbean, The Lighthouse Retreat on Little Corn Island offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the demands of everyday life and reconnect with what truly matters.
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