FAQ on Upstate NY retreats

Here are answers to some of our most Frequently Asked Questions for our upcoming Yoga retreat, at the Grail in Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York. The 2012 retreat is scheduled for October 12-14 this year.

1. I don’t have a car, so would plan on taking the train.  Is the place walking distance to the train?

The Grail is a short cab ride to the train. I think the Beacon station on the Metro North Railroad is the easiest, most direction option. The cab fare usually runs about $20, so you can perhaps split the fare with other students who take the train up, OR we can come fetch you from the train station. Other transit options are possible, so if you are interested in paying extra for shared transit, please let us know.

2. Do I book through you? How do I pay?

Yes, you can book directly through Yoga4Soul teacher Bria Tavakoli. Please email your intent to book to briayoga4soul@gmail.com

To pay: Click here for the secure PayPal link (scroll down to the bottom of the page for the PayPal button)

You can also pay via check, money order, or through credit card via PayPal.

3. Is there any sort of deposit needed?

In order to ensure a slot is held for you, please provide a 50% deposit up front. We will speak with you individually to determine when the balance is due.

4. When I get there to the retreat center, do I give them your name?

Nope, you see us and we’ll welcome you personally and show you around, and to your room! The retreat house is ours to enjoy for the weekend. No other groups will be there.

5.  Is there an agenda/itinerary?

Yes, we will have Yoga classes, meditation times, free time to explore the surrounding towns or outdoor areas. Meals are at the house. Maria is cooking up lovely vegetarian food. An outing to pick local apples at a nearby orchard is planned. While there are plenty of activities, there is also ample downtime to enjoy the mansion and the beautiful, relaxing Upstate New York environment. As the retreat approaches, we will post and email a more detailed itinerary.

6. Is  it a mixed aged group? Is it diverse?

Yes.

7. What is the pricing?

The pricing is around $300 per person, depending on room size. Early bird specials give you the chance to ensure you book the lowest rate.

8. Wow, that sounds really inexpensive. Is that a typo? What’s up with that?

No, it’s not a typo We are all about accessible as well as recession-friendly pricing, and making the retreat possible. Look around and you’ll find that other nearby retreats generally start at pricing close to $600 per person per weekend. What can we say, we’re Yoga4Soul and we roll in our own way.

9.  What is the website to the place the retreat will be held? Are there pictures on there?

Yes, pictures and more info can be found here: http://www.thegrailatcornwall.org/

10. My spouse/girlfriend/boyfriend/friend/parent/relative has never done Yoga. Will they be able to participate?

Absolutely. At past retreats, we had people who were brand new to Yoga and others who hadn’t taken it very much. They did what they were able to do, had fun, and it was fine! Remember, we’re here to connect, not compete, and to find progress, not perfection.

11.But wait, I’ve been practicing Yoga a long time and want to explore more advanced asanas. Will I be able do that?

Definitely. Morning classes are typically run in two sessions. One session is tailored to those who are beginners and intermediates; the other session is geared towards intermediate to advanced practitioners.

12. I also really wanted to practice Yoga with my friend, relative, significant other. Will that be possible, too?

Yes. We have one or two classes where the entire group participates.

13. How many people will be there? 

The house can hold up to 25 people. A more typical number for these retreats is 15-20. Yes, we DO sell out, and yes, booking will be cut off at some point if necessary.

14.Can I arrive early?

No. We cannot accommodate early arrivals. Retreat programming officially begins at 5 PM on Friday. Early arrivals will be charged $50 per hour.

15. Are pets allowed?

Unfortunately, the house does not allow pets.

16. What should I bring?

A Yoga mat and props if you have them, comfortable Yoga clothes, shoes you could take a nice, long walk in, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellant, toiletries. Reading materials, journals, etc, are encouraged. Most importantly, bring your enthusiasm and a positive attitude.