“It’s not about where you are in the world, it’s about who your with.” Rarely do travelers think of these words when exploring new ventures. But when Yoga is involved, it’s all about community, your surroundings, and who you are with.
If you’re a passionate Yogi seeking a unique travel experience, then a Yoga retreat might be your ideal getaway. Yoga retreats offer unforgettable endeavors to progress your Yoga practice. The beauty in a retreat stems from sharing your practice in a new environment and with new individuals.
Inspire your Yogi spirit to pursue a Yoga retreat on your next vacation, and explore 5 of the world’s best Yoga retreats below.
Present Moment – Troncones Beach, Mexico
Located on the western Pacific coast of Mexico, Present Moment is a retreat center tucked between the Mexican Riviera and the Sierra Madre Mountains. The grounds at Present Moment are populated with flower-lined pathways and lush scenery, all surrounding a central pool. Guests can find peace at one of eleven private bungalows, each intricately crafted with native palapa thatched roofs and with the upmost authenticity.
The 7-day Restore & Refresh Package at Presence Moment offers unlimited yoga classes, morning meditation sessions, two massages, nutritious meals, wellness counseling, and an adventure tour. This retreat package typically costs about $1,425 per person, however Present Moment is popular for their early bird specials.
For more information, visit www.presentmomentretreat.com.
Anamaya Resort – Montezuma, Costa Rica
Just steps away from waterfalls, dense rainforests, and a tropical beach village, Anamaya Resort hosts some of the most breathtaking Yoga retreats in the world. Anamaya is uniquely nestled in the bluffs of Montezuma overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean. The grounds were developed based on sustainable building practices, and guests can enjoy a wealth of activities.
Retreats at Anamaya Resort are popular because they support a number of activities beyond Yoga. Surfers and beach-goers can make a short journey down to the shores of Montezuma beach to enjoy stellar waves and the aquatic beauty of Costa Rica. Also appreciated at Anamaya is their strong advocacy toward local and organic cuisine. Visitors are graced with a splendor of gourmet vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.
The Yoga & Adventure Retreat Package includes 10 yoga classes, a zip line canopy tour, waterfall hiking, cooking class, salsa dance lesson, beach bonfires, various forms of entertainment, and much more. The package runs about $145 for a week, in addition to lodging costs which can range from $895, and upwards to $1,895 for a deluxe private cabana.
Learn more by visiting www.anamayaresort.com.
Samahita Retreat – Koh Samui, Thailand
Samahita Retreat is found on the Laem Sor beach near the southern edge of Koh Samui. Koh Samui is a sustainably-supported island positioned in the Gulf of Thailand and boasts some of the world’s most immaculate beaches. The Samahita Retreat center supports a number of Yoga styles and is immersed in an exotic natural atmosphere.
Guests can choose from ongoing retreats and programs that occur almost every week. Samahita Retreat packages include the yoga program of your choosing, a salt water swimming pool, an herbal steam room, beautiful lodging accommodations, as well as brunch and dinner buffets. The retreat center is smoke and alcohol free to support the health of guests and the surrounding environment.
The rates for Yoga retreats vary, however you can expect a price of about $130 per day for lodging. You can choose to share a two-bedroom loft, or save by opting for a non-residential room. The only downside to non-residential rooms is that they’re located away from the beaches, whereas the rest of the lodging options are positioned directly on the beach.
Get more information about Samahita Retreat at www.yoga-thailand.com.
Purple Valley Yoga Retreat – Goa, India
Secluded from hustle and bustle of the city, Purple Valley Yoga Retreat is positioned near India’s western coast on the Arabian Sea. India, recognized as the roots of Yoga, is a paramount destination to deepen your practice in a surreal atmosphere. The area’s white sandy beaches, tropical gardens, and exotic wildlife offer the ideal surroundings for a Yoga retreat.
Purple Valley supports a strong sense of community. Guests are encouraged to stay in shared rooms to connect with other visitors and build relationships with fellow Yogis. Purple Valley hosts a wide spectrum of Yoga programs taught by a number of instructors. Ashtanga is a common style of Yoga at Purple Valley, which is a progressive practice that offers its fair share of challenges.
Most Yoga retreat packages include vegetarian-friendly meals rich with local fruits, vegetables, nuts, and homemade breads. For dinner, you can expect a tasteful blend of traditional Western foods that are acquired daily from local organic markets. Because of the extensive travel that’s involved for most guests, Purple Valley suggests a 2-week stay which can range from about $1,000 to $1,200. Get more details by visiting www.yogagoa.com.
Ak’Bol Resort – Ambergris Caye, Belize
Ak’Bol is a beachfront resort found on the north end of Ambergris Caye, the largest island of Belize. Ak’Bol offers the same amenities you’d expect from a typical resort, such as beach volleyball, surfing, and luxurious lodging. And less than a mile from the island is the World’s second largest barrier reef, offering some of the best scuba and snorkeling around.
Guests can partake in a wealth of mainland adventures just moments away from the resort. Some of the most popular are zip-lining, fly fishing, cave tubing, and horseback riding. The area also hosts a stunning natural pool that’s carved out of the rock overlooking the Caribbean.
All Yoga retreats at Ak’Bol Resort are packaged in 7-night stays that include both healthy meals and Yoga. Guests can enjoy two Yoga classes each day with plenty of free time in between. The cost for each Yoga retreat depends on the instructor. However a private, sea-side cabana will run you between $120-165 a night, depending on the season in which you’re traveling. Visit akbol.com for more information.
About the Author: This article was written by Tyler Tafelsky, an avid Yogi and travel with a passion for Yoga retreats and exploring new practices.
Super awesome article Tyler! I’ve love Thailand and the Samahita resort is an amazing place to live in Yoga. Another great yoga retreat in Thailand is at Blooming Lotus Yoga. They are in Koh Phangan, which is only 1 hr away from Samui and the lacation is heavenly…like a garden of Eden. Thanks again for enlightening us on these great yoga retreats! Bless