Picture this: you’re sitting on a mat feeling like a million miles away (maybe you really are!). You can smell the sweet scents of tropical flowers mixed with earthy bamboo floors. Breeze through the lush rainforest treehouse where you have spent the past few days growing, learning and connecting. You used to refresh your mornings with fresh fruit and meditation. Now you are here and now, resting in Savasana, surrounded by new friends who share your passion for the art and science of yoga. You rest quietly, appreciating the beautiful journey you have taken and finding gratitude for all the incredible experiences the past few days have brought you. You are renewed, renewed, renewed.
You’ve arrived at your dream yoga retreat. Maybe your vision is in the forests of Bali, where you can mingle with the locals and take a dip in the infinity pool after your yoga class. Maybe the beaches of Costa Rica are more your style, with amazing fresh food and vegetarian options. It’s okay to be closer to home. Do you feel comfortable near the waters of Mexico or at home in California?
Sounds great, but is this more of a dream than reality? I do not blame you. Many yoga retreats on the market are a great investment. For some of us, the project itself seemed like an impossible feat, let alone the cost of travel to the world’s most coveted vacation spot. After adding up all the necessary travel expenses, the thought of going to a yoga retreat might not be an option. But don’t settle for just one stay…
So here’s the good news: If you’ve longed for a well-rounded yoga retreat, your dreams aren’t out of reach! Due to the growing popularity of yoga, there are many yoga retreats out there. In some of the most beautiful places on earth, right in our own backyard, for less than $1,000. In fact, here are eight! Read on to learn about some of the world’s most affordable vacation spots and how to have fun and relax.
Anamaya Resorts in Costa Rica
Anamaya Resort in Costa Rica. Imprint anamayaresort.com
Anamaya has it all: sea, views, food and a great team. We all know Costa Rica is a yogi’s paradise – well, paradise time! For a luxurious year-round yoga retreat in Costa Rica, visit Anamaya Resort. Most sessions are Saturday through Saturday, but check the website for other options.
Additionally, the retreat is fully customizable to suit your needs and level. Add adventurous activities like zip lining, cooking classes, hiking, horseback riding, and waterfall safaris. Are you a surf yogi or want to dive? They have a special retreat just for you. Go all out with their Pure Yoga packages, or choose the wellness route and rejuvenate.
Location: Montezuma, Costa Rica
Price: $795 and up
Sivanandra Ashram Yoga Retreat
Sivanandra Ashram Yoga Retreat. Credits sivanandabahamas.org
Sivanandra Ashram Yoga Center offers a variety of opportunities at its beautiful resort in the Bahamas. For an affordable yet well-rounded yoga retreat (though most options are budget-friendly), choose one of Sivanandra Yoga’s Essentials classes. However, there are also year-round classes for beginners or experienced yoga practitioners. Also check out the yoga vacation program or one of the advanced basic yoga classes. The Essential I course (perfect for beginners) is an immersive 5-day program that includes vegetarian food, meditation, inspiring teaching, and of course yoga!
Location: Bahamas
Price: $784 and up
Finger Lakes Yoga Landscape
Finger Lakes Yoga Landscape. Credit http://fingerlakesyogascapes.com
I can personally speak to the beauty of the Finger Lakes having lived in the area for several years. The natural beauty of the area has a certain charm and serenity, perfect for rejuvenating yoga and wellness retreats. Finger Lakes YogaScapes are running an amazing glamping yoga retreat with their next event in July 2019 – so visit their website to book your spot! Rekindle your passion for yoga at Buttermilk Falls State Park with three days of glamping, yoga and twinkling night skies just outside Ithaca, New York. What a lovely way to combine yoga, nature and camping – in a totally convenient and chic way!
Location: Buttermilk Falls State Park in Ithaca, New York
Price: $665 and up.
Hariharalaya Yoga and Meditation Retreat
Hariharalaya Yoga and Meditation Retreat. Courtesy of hariharalaya.com
It’s a beautiful soulful getaway that’s unbelievably affordable if you can venture into exotic Cambodia. Hariharalaya, a 6-day yoga and meditation retreat, offers an authentic rural Cambodian experience, not far from the ancient temples the country is famous for. In addition to the six-day yoga immersion, experience dharma lectures, daily vegan meals, and the comforts of a shared or individual bamboo cabin. Soak up the spiritual essence of Cambodia and enjoy an authentic taste of village life that Hariharalaya has to offer. Step into the spa and wellness center and take your wellness to a whole new level. Retreats are held throughout the year.
Location: Hariharalaya, outside Siem Reap
Price: $300 and up.
Suncokret Body and Soul Retreat
Suncokret body and soul retreat. imprint suncokretdream.net
This retreat is the perfect way to get back to yourself. Emphasis is on yoga asanas, pranayama, meditation and self-directed exploration. Since 2004, Suncokret has been hosting retreats on the picturesque island of Hvar. Your experienced therapist and yoga teacher has a special affinity for connecting body and soul. Immerse yourself in the magic of the beautiful island