FAQ.....

What is a yoga retreat?

A yoga retreat is a dedicated getaway that allows participants to immerse themselves in yoga practice, mindfulness, and relaxation. It takes place in a serene and natural setting, providing a perfect environment for rejuvenation and self-discovery.

Which one do I choose?

Our diverse array of retreats, each carefully curated in unique locations, offering a distinctive vibe, culture, and experience. Despite their individual charms, all our retreats share the beautiful heart of being an Enlighten Yoga retreat, promising you rejuvenation, healing, and the opportunity to forge remarkable connections. Whether you yearn for the serenity of snow-capped mountains, the warmth of sun-kissed shores, or the tranquility of the sea breeze, our offerings span the seasons. We encourage you to explore our Top Tips for each destination, ensuring you embark on a transformative journey perfectly tailored to your desires.

Do I need to be an experienced yogi to join a yoga retreat?

Not at all! Our retreats cater to individuals of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. We offer classes suitable for different skill levels, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

What can I expect from a typical yoga retreat schedule?

Retreat schedules vary depending on the location however all include daily yoga and meditation sessions, nutritious meals, free time for relaxation or exploration, and optional activities outside of the retreat you can book separately.

Can I attend a yoga retreat alone?

Absolutely! Many participants attend retreats solo to disconnect from their daily routines and embrace self-discovery. Retreats often foster a welcoming and supportive community where you can make new friends.

Are yoga retreats suitable for all ages?

Yes, yoga retreats are designed to accommodate participants of various ages. However you must be over 16 years of age and anyone 18 or under must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I pack for a yoga retreat?

ack comfortable yoga attire, a water bottle, a yoga mat (if you have one), any necessary medications, and casual clothing suitable for the retreat environment. Don't forget personal items like toiletries and a book to read for down time etc.

What type of yoga is practiced on retreats?

Our retreats mainly offer Hatha Yoga but we also work in a little vinyasa. The beauty of our retreats are we go beyond just the physical practice of yoga and focus on energy work, journaling, meditation and deep relaxation. It is a whole package of feelgood.

Are meals provided on the retreat?

We offer healthy and delicious meals included in the package. The meals provided with be vegetarian with some vegan options. Special dietary requirements are usually accommodated if communicated in advance.

Do I need travel insurance for a yoga retreat?

Yes, travel insurance is required to protect yourself in case of unforeseen events, travel disruptions, or medical emergencies during the retreat. It is fully detailed in our terms and conditions but you must be fully insured to attend.

What if I don't have a yoga mat?

If you do not have a yoga mat but still want to attend please let us know at the time of booking and we can sort out a mat for you to borrow.

How do I get from the airport to the destination of the retreat?

At Enlighten Yoga, we are dedicated to ensuring your journey to our retreat is seamless and enjoyable. We provide comprehensive details on how to reach our stunning centers, offering various travel options to suit every budget. While the cost of travel is your responsibility, rest assured that we have curated options that cater to all. Our retreat centers are nestled in awe-inspiring locations, truly unparalleled, promising you an experience of a lifetime. The effort is undoubtedly worth it as you embark on a transformative and unforgettable adventure.

1. Booking and Payment

i. Advance reservations – more than 28 days before the start date – require a 25% online deposit with booking.

ii. Short notice reservations – less than 28 days of start date – require online payment in full at the time of reservation.

iii. Payments with an overseas credit card: the card issuer will debit your account in your local currency at the exchange rate applicable on the date of processing.

iv. Payment of remaining balance is due 28 days before the start date preferably by electronic bank transfer – (see clause 1.v)

v. Please ensure that Enlighten Yoga Retreats receives the full amount, irrespective of fluctuations in currency and third party transfer and processing charges.

vi. Bookings are not considered definite and no obligation to provide services shall exist between you and Kaliyoga until payment in full has been received by Kaliyoga.

2. Cancellation by you

i. Cancellation can only be made by the person(s) submitting the booking form. Notice of cancellation must be notified to Enlighten Yoga Retreats in writing. Cancellation will take effect the day such notification is received and your booking will be released.

ii. If you cancel 28 days or earlier in advance of your arrival date, your deposit will be refunded however an admin charge of 12% will be retained from the refundable amount.

iii. Cancellation within 28 days of your confirmed arrival date will result in forfeit of payment. (see section vi below).

iv. Once a booking has been accepted refunds are subject to our cancellation policy and subject to limitations of our liability to you (see section v below).

v. If you cancel and subsequently another customer can be found to take your place we may at our discretion permit you to defer your booking to another date or person, in which case a refund would be applicable. A 12% admin fee will apply to your refundable balance.

vi. Your booking is for the stated period of the retreat. Once the event has started, no refund or part refund or will be repaid in the event of cancellation or non-attendance by you. There are no refunds for an unused portion of the retreat.

vii. You indemnify Enlighten Yoga Retreats against claims for financial loss caused by events beyond Enlight Yoga Retreats control.

3. Our liability to you

i. Enlighten Yoga Retreats accepts responsibility for ensuring that our contractual services are provided to a reasonable standard and our retreats and B&B are supplied as described. We however reserve the right to make “reasonable” adjustments to rooms if required. Enlighten reserves the right to cancel, postpone or re-schedule events due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control.

ii. Staff including teachers and retreat leaders may change at Enlighten Yoga Retreats discretion.

iii. We are not responsible for the proportion of male/female guests in any group. We are not responsible for the individual behavior of any guest.

iv. We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate all guests however we reserve the right at our discretion to cancel your booking if we think that your behavior is disrespectful or your attitude or mental health is deemed likely to upset staff or other guests.

v. Activities on site and off site are undertaken at your own risk including but not limited to: yoga,hiking, beach swimming, skiing, snowboarding, hot tubbing, waterfall excursions, camel riding, cross country skiing, massages, snowshoeing, hotsprings. We are not liable for any injuries that you may incur. We are not liable for any medical or psychiatric conditions which may develop during or subsequent to your booking. We are not liable for loss of, or damage to, your personal property.

vi. We do not accept liability for cancellations, delays or changes caused by war, threat of war, terrorist actions or threats, closure of airports, civil strife, industrial action, natural disaster, technical problems to transport, staff cancellations, national state of emergency, health epidemic, unforeseen changes in your personal circumstances or other events beyond our control and you agree to indemnify Enlighten Yoga Retreats against claims for financial loss caused by such events.

4. Flights & Transfers

i. Your travel arrangements are your responsibility and at your own cost.

Ii. Enlighten Yoga Retreats are not responsible for any consequences arising from delays or cancellations in any of the companies you may have made arrangements with, or for any irregularities in your documentation required for travel.

5. Travel Insurance

i. Insurance is mandatory.

ii. We require that your travel insurance covers the activity of your booking as well as unexpected cancellation, sickness, losses, flight changes or cancellations due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Please bring the policy with you in the case of an emergency.

iii. Travel insurance is a prerequisite for all participants joining our retreats, and it must provide comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays, and personal belongings throughout the duration of the retreat, with worldwide coverage

6. Group Bookings

i. Where a booking is made on behalf of several individuals the booking is conditional on the person signing the booking form having authorisation from all the individuals named on the booking form to enter into this contract. A deposit for every group member is required. If any member of the group can not come for any reason, their deposit is forfeit unless cancellation is given in writing within 60 days before the start date of their booking.

7. Your Medical Health / Pregnancy

i. If you have a medical condition, serious or otherwise, you MUST inform us in writing at the time of booking and provide a letter from your GP confirming that it is safe for you to attend a Englighten Yoga Retreat event with our advertised diet, yoga classes & and other physical activities that we arrange at your request (e.g. massage, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, hot springs etc.). In the interests of your well-being we may at our discretion decline your stay at Enlighten Yoga Retreats.

ii. If an emergency arises we will do everything in our power to assist you but Enlighten Yoga Retreats is not responsible for the outcome of any such emergency.

iii. Whilst all measures are taken to ensure a high standard of health and safety, we are situated in the in various places around the world many of which where the land is uneven and we shall not be responsible for any injuries caused by uneven terrain.

iv. In the case of a medical emergency we will do our best to aid each guest however we are not responsible for any costs incurred.

v. Pregnancy: it is not advisable to practice yoga during the first trimester, particularly with any history of miscarriage. We do not recommend you attend our retreats if you are pregnant.

8. Food – Allergies – Medication – Alcohol

i. Enlighten Yoga Retreats are vegetarian with some vegan, gluten free and lactose free options.

ii. If you have a serious dietary allergy you must provide Enlighten Yoga Retreats with a note from your doctor or health practitioner stating the severity of your condition and the nature of any reaction that would occur if you consumed any ingredient to which you are intolerant. Directly on your arrival as a precaution you will remind the Retreat Leader and kitchen staff about your dietary needs. You are responsible for your own dietary health and you must bring any personal medication with you. If we can not cater to your allergy needs we may need to decline your booking for your own health and safety.

iii. We are not responsible for adverse reaction to ingredients that you consume.

iv. You must let us know if you take prescribed anti-depressants or if you are epileptic.

v. Enlighten Yoga Retreat staff will not apply medication on your behalf.

vi. Alcohol is not permitted on the premises.

vii. If you are under the influence of drink or drugs at any time, the experience of your retreat will be tied to that mental state and therefore your retreat will be compromised therefore we reserve the right to terminate your booking in regard to possession of alcohol or drugs on site.

9. Mobile phones and portable devices

i. Retreats are designed for people to be quiet and reflective.

ii. In the interests of creating a positive retreat atmosphere for all guests, portable devices including mobile phones and tablets should not be used at the dining table nor in the yoga studio. The yoga teacher may at their discretion grant permission to take photos in the yoga studio. If you need to make phone calls and/or carry out work-related activities on a mobile device, please do so in the privacy of your room and not in the communal areas.

iii. If you listen to music please use headphones and set the volume to a reasonable level that can not be heard by people around you.

iv. In order to maintain guest privacy and confidentiality, photos and videos of your fellow guests may not be taken, stored, nor shared digitally without their prior permission.

10. Age / Gender

i. All genders are welcome. The minimum age of any participant is 16 and must be in attendance with a parent. There is no maximum age as long as you are fit and healthy to attend this type of retreat.

11. Complaints

i. We really value your feedback. Giving us feedback when you are not happy with our service gives us the opportunity to put things right for you and improve our service to others. Feel free to email us at a convenient time for you and we will do our best to respond as quickly as possible. We will listen to you and put matters right if we can.

ii. If you want to complain, please give us the following details:
• Your name and address
• Your booking reference or your customer account number
• A phone number where you would like us to call you
• A clear description of your concerns or complaint
• Details of what you would like to do to put things right
• Copies if any relevant correspondence

iii. How to contact us:
Here is how you can contact us to complain:
By email mailto:happiness@enlightenretreats.com
We will do our best to sort out your complaint immediately. If we can’t do that, we aim to deal with your complaint the next working day. Sometimes it may take longer to investigate your concerns fully.
If this is the case we will do the following:
– give you the name and contact details of the person who will be investigating your complaint.
– respond to you within twentyeight working days.

v. If more time is needed to resolve the issue, we will write to you explaining what is happening and when we expect to sort out your complaint. We will send you either a final response or a detailed report on our progress within eight weeks.

12. Privacy & GDPR

At Enlighten Yoga Retreats we are committed to protecting your personal data and ensuring your privacy. This GDPR policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and store your personal information in connection with the booking of our retreats. By making a reservation with us, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

i. Data Collection

We will collect personal information from you, including but not limited to your name, address, email address, phone number, and payment details, to facilitate the retreat booking process and ensure a seamless experience.

Additionally, we may request information regarding your health, dietary requirements, or any other specific needs relevant to the retreat to ensure your safety and well-being during the event.

ii. Data Use:The personal data we collect will be used solely for the purpose of managing your retreat booking, including processing payments, providing you with necessary information related to the retreat, and ensuring your overall comfort and satisfaction during your stay with us.

We may also use your contact information to communicate with you about future retreat offerings, promotions, or updates unless you specifically opt-out of such communications.

iii. Data Disclosure:We will not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes. However, we may share necessary details with our retreat partners, service providers, and employees involved in organizing and conducting the retreat to ensure its successful execution.

Your personal information may also be disclosed if required by law or to protect our rights, safety, or property.

iv. Data Retention:We will retain your personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements.

V. Data Security:We take the security of your personal data seriously and have implemented appropriate measures to safeguard it from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.

While we strive to protect your information, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is completely secure. Therefore, we cannot guarantee absolute security.

Data Subject Rights: As a data subject, you have the right to access, update, or delete your personal data held by us. If you wish to exercise these rights or have any concerns about how your data is being processed, please contact us at [contact email/phone number].

Lawful Basis for Processing: Our lawful basis for processing your personal data is the necessity to fulfill the contract for retreat booking and to comply with legal obligations.

By proceeding with the retreat booking, you consent to the terms outlined in this GDPR policy and acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the processing of your personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws and regulations.

When traveling to Thailand, it is essential to embrace and respect the rich cultural heritage and customs of this beautiful country. Here are some top tips to ensure you have a culturally sensitive and enjoyable experience:

Greeting with the Wai:

The traditional Thai greeting, the Wai, involves pressing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and slightly bowing your head. Use the Wai when greeting elders, monks, or in formal situations. A polite nod or smile is suitable for greeting peers or younger individuals.

Dress Modestly:

When visiting temples, palaces, or any religious sites, ensure your attire covers your shoulders and knees. Revealing clothing is considered disrespectful in these sacred places.

Remove Shoes:

Before entering someone's home, a temple, or certain businesses, it is customary to remove your shoes. Look for a pile of shoes near the entrance as an indication.

Show Respect to Monks:

Monks are highly revered in Thai society. When in the presence of monks, avoid touching them or sitting higher than them. Women should not hand anything directly to a monk but instead place it on a nearby surface for them to pick up.

Mind the Head:

The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture. Refrain from touching someone's head, including children, as it is seen as disrespectful.

Stay Calm and Smile:

Thais value harmony and a positive demeanor. Avoid raising your voice or displaying anger in public. A smile can go a long way in breaking the ice and showing appreciation.

Respect Buddha Images:

Be mindful when posing for photos near Buddha statues or images. Avoid inappropriate poses or touching the statues as it is considered disrespectful.

Handle Money Politely:

The Thai currency, Baht, bears the image of the King. Treat money with respect and avoid stepping on it or using it inappropriately.

Watch Your Feet:

Pointing your feet at people, especially at Buddha images or sacred places, is considered rude. Cross your legs or sit with your feet tucked away to avoid unintentional offense.

Learn Some Thai Phrases:

Locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak a few basic Thai phrases. Saying "hello" (Sawasdee) and "thank you" (Khap Khun) with a smile can make a significant difference in your interactions.

Remember, respect and understanding of Thai culture will not only enhance your travel experience but also foster positive connections with the local people. Embrace the warmth and hospitality of Thailand while being mindful of the cultural customs and traditions.

As a visitor to Morocco, immersing yourself in the country's rich cultural heritage and traditions is not only a sign of respect but also a gateway to a more meaningful travel experience. Here are some top tips to ensure you show respect and appreciation for Moroccan culture:

Greeting with a Handshake and Salaam:

When meeting Moroccans, a warm handshake is a common greeting among people of the same gender, followed by the traditional Arabic greeting, "Salaam alaykum" (peace be upon you). Respond with "Wa alaykum as-salaam" (and upon you be peace).

Dress Modestly:

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative dress norms. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women may want to cover their shoulders and wear skirts or pants below the knee.

Respect Islamic Traditions:

Be mindful of prayer times, especially during Friday midday prayers (Jumu'ah). Avoid public displays of affection, loud behavior, or eating and drinking in public during the holy month of Ramadan.

Politeness and Courteous Language:

Moroccans greatly value polite language and courteous behavior. Use expressions like "please" (min fadlak for a male, min fadlik for a female) and "thank you" (shukran) to show respect.

Accept Invitations with Grace:

Moroccans are known for their hospitality and may extend invitations to their homes for tea or a meal. Accepting with grace shows appreciation for their generosity.

Remove Shoes Indoors:

When entering someone's home or a mosque, remove your shoes as a sign of respect.

Bargaining in Souks:

Bargaining is a common practice in Moroccan souks (markets). Be polite but firm during negotiations, and remember that a friendly attitude can lead to better deals.

Photographing People:

Always seek permission before taking photographs of locals, especially women and religious figures. Some may prefer not to be photographed.

Respecting Moroccan Cuisine:

Moroccan cuisine is a central part of the culture. Enjoy meals with your right hand (as the left hand is considered unclean), and refrain from wasting food as it's seen as disrespectful.

Understand Cultural Sensitivities:

Morocco has diverse cultures and beliefs. Be respectful of the customs and traditions of various regions and ethnic groups.

Learn Some Basic Phrases:

Learning a few Arabic or Berber phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals and showing your interest in their culture.

By embracing Moroccan customs and traditions, you will gain a deeper understanding of the country and its people, fostering positive interactions and creating lasting memories during your visit. Keep an open mind and heart, and be ready to embrace the warmth and hospitality of Morocco.