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<span class = "acc_num">1<span>ABOUT TRAINING
Am I going to get hurt if I come train?
- While we can’t guarantee that accidents won’t happen, the experience at the Nam Yang Training Center is designed to be completely safe. We have never had a serious accident, and everyone who comes here is encouraged to push themselves only to a level they are comfortable with, and they only end up increasing their health, stamina and flexibility. We also teach many forms of meditation that are designed to increase vitality, and these are techniques that anyone can take with them. Additionally, we have tea breaks during training and often discuss the value of different foods and teas during meals. We do not encourage hard sparring since it often leads to injuries. When people attend one or two classes a week as is common in the West, having to miss a few weeks’ training because of an injury is no big deal. When you have flown all the way to Thailand and invested time and money in attending a Retreat like ours, it would be much more serious. This is why we are purposely very protective of our students. Please do understand that we do not accept liability for any injuries sustained whilst staying with us. If in doubt, please take out travel insurance.
Are the teachers familiar with chronic, back injuries?
- Our Chief Instructor, Master Iain, as well as our other instructors have reasonable knowledge of back issues, but they are not qualified to give any treatments.
I really want to join the program but I have foot pain. Can I still train?
- Yes, you can. Running is not included in our program and we usually train barefoot. The roofed training ground has 2 cm jigsaw mats and will make you stepping on bare feet more comfortable.
I have a knee injury but I would really love to train, would this be a problem?
- Your knee injury should not hold you back. The most important thing to remember is not to do anything which could injure your knee, even if other people are doing it. So for example, do not squat lower than is safe. In the mornings much of the exercise is fairly soft and aimed at recovery and improving health so if anything, it should help your knee.
ABOUT INJURIES
Is it safe to train at the Retreat?
- Of course it is, and we take pride in our Retreat’s excellent safety record.
Am I going to get hurt if I come train?
- While we can’t guarantee that accidents won’t happen, the experience at the Kung Fu Retreat is designed to be completely safe. We have never had a serious accident, and everyone who comes here is encouraged to push themselves only to a level they are comfortable with a view to increasing their health, stamina, and flexibility. We do not encourage hard sparring since it often leads to injuries. When people attend one or two classes a week as is common in the West, having to miss a few weeks’ training because of an injury is no big deal. When you have flown all the way to Thailand and invested time and money in attending a Retreat like ours, it would be much more serious. This is why we are purposely very protective of our students. Please do understand that we do not accept liability for any injuries sustained whilst staying with us. If in doubt, please take out travel insurance.
Are the teachers familiar with chronic, back injuries?
- Our Chief Instructor, Master Iain, as well as our other instructors have reasonable knowledge of back issues, but they are not qualified to give any treatments.
I really want to join the program but I have foot pain. Can I still train?
- Yes, you can. Running is not included in our program and we usually train barefoot. The roofed training ground has 2 cm jigsaw mats and will make you stepping on bare feet more comfortable.
I have a knee injury but I would really love to train, would this be a problem?
- Your knee injury should not hold you back. The most important thing to remember is not to do anything which could injure your knee, even if other people are doing it. So for example, do not squat lower than is safe. In the mornings much of the exercise is fairly soft and aimed at recovery and improving health so if anything, it should help your knee.
ABOUT TRAINING
What is the philosophical basis of your teachings?
- Kung Fu is built around the three philosophies that have shaped China: Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. We teach about all of these philosophies although more about Taoism and Buddhism than Confucianism. Please understand that these are philosophies, not religions and that our teachings are available to people of all beliefs.
I am confused as to which program I should pursue. What do you recommend?
- For those interested in the martial aspects of our arts and in something more demanding in terms of fitness, we suggest following the Path of the Warrior. If you are looking for more emphasis on personal and spiritual development and self healing and something less demanding, then choose the Path of the Monk. Each course offered within these paths is entirely suitable for beginners to advanced students and has well balanced, stimulating content. If you want a mix of both, just let us know as we can help create a custom package. Our teachers will be very happy to offer you advice on your choice and it is usually possible to switch between different programs or combine elements to make your own program with just a little advanced notice.
I have zero experience in Kung Fu or Qigong, will this be a problem?
- You need not worry about being new to this. Many of our students arrive with no knowledge or experience in Kung Fu, Qigong or meditation, but all leave fitter, more experienced, and better than when they came. We do have breaks in both morning and afternoon sessions and it is also possible for individuals to rest for a bit if they need to. The morning sessions are not very demanding physically. It is very likely that there will be others here with zero experience. Our advice: do not hesitate, you will not regret coming.
Will my previous martial arts background help me in training?
- Any previous experience should prove very helpful to you and will allow you to progress more quickly with our training!
How many students are there in a group?
- Group sizes vary considerably depending on how many people we have staying at the Retreat. They could be from 3 -30! We have 6 – 12 instructors here so there is usually at least one instructor per 5 – 6 students, although it does vary. There can be up to 4 different classes running at the same time each with different teachers – not everyone is combined into the same group. We do go out of our way to make sure that every student gets the attention that they need.
Are there women attending and/or teaching the program?
- Yes, we do have female instructors. Please check our ‘Instructor page‘. We have had numerous female students who have immensely enjoyed their fulfilling and exciting experience here. You may find our students’ testimonials on Tripadvisor.
I’m already in my 60s, is it still ok for me to train?
- Students generally range from the age of 18 to 60. Recently, we had a student of 70 here for 6 weeks and he coped fine with the training so you should have no trouble at all.
Are there any prerequisites before training at the Retreat?
- We are very flexible and do our best to help all of our students get the best out of themselves. It is a good idea to work on your flexibility and fitness before joining us, but we always take our students as they are and do our best to make sure that they all leave in much better shape than they arrive, mentally as well as physically.
How do I prepare myself for the training? Are there any exercises that I should do to get myself into shape for the training?
- We recommend joining our online membership & training here: Nam Yang Global Family, to get started with training our arts. It will be very beneficial to your time here and you will likely progress quicker after you arrive to the Retreat. Alternatively, you should do plenty of stretching and some general fitness work to get started. It would also be a good idea to study Master Iain’s book on Chi Kung. You can get a free download of it by signing up to our newsletter. Also, if you follow us on Facebook, you could keep an eye on very useful tips and information.
I would like to spar but not face hits, and prefer boxing. Is that possible?
- We often do Pushing Hands training, which is a form of sparing which does not involve hitting each other. We are a Kung Fu school so our training is very much focused on Kung Fu rather than boxing.
Will I get a certificate after training?
- We issue certificates for passing gradings (the first can be taken after 4 weeks’ training) for completing our basic certification course (10 weeks training or more) and for passing instructor training courses.
Do you offer yoga?
- No, we do not teach yoga. We teach Kung Fu, Chi Kung and Meditation.
Do you teach meditation?
- Yes. Meditation is a key part of our training program. Kung fu and Chi Kung, when done properly, is a meditation in motion. We do have our group meditation classes, but also we encourage our students to meditate individually during their free time
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate in contacting us. We are very happy to assist you!
ABOUT THE RETREAT
What are your hours of operation?
- We are open from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. Our check-in time is 2 PM & Check-in closes at 5 PM. We may be a little flexible if you arrive outside the hours of operation upon informing us of the details of your arrival in advance. For very late check-ins, we have an out of hours’ check-in fee. Please let us know what time you intent to visit or check in so we can arrange someone to meet you.
What are the facilities at the Retreat?
- Our facilities include 3 training areas – 2 of which are roofed with mats and a gym to suit specifically Kung Fu students. We also have a Meditation / Prayer Room, Tree House, Dining area where we prepare food and teas, Reception office, Gardens, and a smoking area. For accommodation, take a look here. For more information on our facilities, check here
What is the language used at the Retreat?
- All teachers are fluent in English and most are native speakers. English is the common language here and all lessons are conducted in English. Conversation between students is almost always in English. It is also very easy to get by with English in the local area. Pai is very popular with western tourists.Many of our teachers are also fluent in other languages. Learn more here.
Is there a kitchen for student use?
- We have kettles and tea making facilities available to students. We do not have a student kitchen as it raises hygiene issues. We have fridges that are appropriate for fruit and pre-prepared food storage. Most students like to go out for lunch, though – it serves as a little social activity, breaks up the day and gives a chance to try different local restaurants and foods
Is there a laundry available?
- Yes, there are three full-sized, self-service washing machines at the Retreat and they cost 30 THB per load (coin-operated). A decent sized bag of washing powder is also very inexpensive. If you wish to take your laundry in town, the prices vary from roughly 30 THB-70 THB per kilo depending on the type of service and the time frame requested.
How fast is the Internet at the Retreat?
- We have fairly fast wifi. Obviously, the wifi is strongest nearest the routers. It can stream video, make video calls, etc., no problem. It can drop out for a few seconds, though.
How reliable is your wifi?
- It is reliable but can cut out maybe once every month or two – it is always easily fixed. In the event of power cuts, which can happen in thunderstorms, wifi will be lost. If you absolutely have to have internet all the time that you are here, no exceptions, then you should consider buying a sim card with 4G which should never cut out. The phone networks here are super reliable. :)Overall, our advice is that the internet at the Retreat will be fine over 99% of the time. We constantly upgrade our connection as better packages become available.
What type of plugs do you use?
- Thailand uses Type A, Type B, and Type C wall plugs. At the retreat, we most commonly use the Type B and Type C plugs. There are 2 double sockets per room. Thailand operates on a 230V supply voltage, which is within the 110-240V range that the dual voltage appliance operates on.
Do you train under the sun when it is hot?
- We never train under the sun when it is hot. Lessons will take place in the roofed training areas. The gym is also roofed. For morning lessons, we will use the open training area in the early mornings before the sun is hot.
What should I bring to the Retreat?
- Most of what you need when in Thailand can be bought here cheaply. You should consider bringing the following:
- Your Kung Fu uniform, if you have one. We supply uniforms for all who want them. The price for a set of kung fu uniform is 2300 Baht / $75.00 USD.
- Small selection of comfortable clothes. Generally, you will need light clothes for warm / hot weather and something which you can train in while your uniform is in the wash. Long sleeves are useful to prevent sunburn. Clothing is cheap in Pai and not only of excellent quality but also really attractive. In fact, Pai has its own unique fashion industry. During December and January, nights can be chilly so bring a pullover and some other warm clothing. The absolute lowest temperature we experience is about 7 C.
- Shoes. We train in bare feet except on cold mornings. You will need ‘flip flops’ or similar which can be bought very cheap in Pai. If you intend to go running, bring running shoes. You will really not need anything else.
- Internet Device
- Camera.
- Weapons. You may want to bring your own weapons but we can supply training weapons.
- Wash kit, toiletries, etc.
ABOUT MEALS AND FOOD
How often do you provide meals?
- Food is one of the highlights of most of our students’ stay. We provide breakfast every day and evening meal 5 days / week. Drinking water is supplied free with meals and is available from the kitchen free of charge at any time for resident students. We do not provide lunch – Our students usually like to get lunch in the local town as it has a wide choice and they can pick what they most feel like. Please note that the kitchen is not available for use due to safety and hygiene.
What food is provided? Do you have a sample menu?
- We typically serve two main dishes with rice. We offer three choices of diet:
- Standard
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
To find out more about the food we serve, please take a look here.
Do you provide filtered drinking water?
- Yes, we do. We have 2 good water filters which provide unlimited drinking water. Tap water is ok for brushing teeth, but we do not advise to drink it in large quantity.
I have a special dietary requirement.
- We try to cater to individual dietary requirements. While booking, please let us know of your dietary requirement and we will let you know if we can accommodate you.
Do you have meals for a Gluten intolerant like me?
- We seldom serve noodles or anything else with wheat in it. We have had a number of gluten intolerant students before so are quite used to catering for them. You can bring some special noodles just in case you feel wary. Please make sure you advise us before arrival so we can accommodate meals for you appropriately.
Can you cater to a dairy-free diet?
- No dairy, no problem! We provide a vegan diet.
ABOUT OUR LIFESTYLE
How does your Retreat promote a healthy lifestyle?
- We wake early, sleep early, exercise very intelligently, eat healthy and maintain a strictly stress-free environment. We also promote contentment and tolerance of each other. Very importantly, we employ special breathing methods around which our exercises are based, and we meditate regularly.
What are the age groups of the students at the Retreat?
- We welcome students who belong to all age groups. We have previously held kung fu classes for children, had students who are in their gap year, and have also accepted students who are in their 60’s and 70’s. The ages at the Retreat are definitely diverse.
Does training at the Retreat help me to quit smoking?
- Quit smoking? People have done it before. Our programs can help you, but it takes some discipline.
What is an ideal spending money or pocket money?
- A 10,000 Baht ‘spending money’ a month should be plenty, provided that people do not want to buy too many things. Maybe 3,500 Baht for 1 week or 6,000 for 2 weeks. Some people spend a very great deal more though.
ABOUT THAILAND AND PAI
ABOUT THAILAND
Where in Thailand are you located?
- We are located in a small town, high in the mountains, Pai! It epitomises the Kung Fu dream of training in pure, fresh air with awesome views well away from the distractions of modern life and the pollution of modern cities. Take a look here for more details on how to get here.
Do I need to know the Thai language?
- Although it will be helpful to know a bit of the Thai language in getting around Thailand, you don’t need to know the Thai language when training at the Retreat. All of our instructors are fluent in English. Our Director, Mrs. Pu Saleephol – Armstrong, as well as our Thai staff could definitely help you should you need assistance in Thai translations.
I am a female traveling alone, is it safe for me to come by myself?
- Yes, Thailand is an extremely safe place! Thai culture is one based on politeness and social harmony, and as such, the crime rate is extremely low, if present at all. Females traveling alone should not worry about any danger.
Do I need vaccinations for Anti-Rabies or Malaria?
- The injections are not particularly necessary. We certainly would not recommend rabies or anti-malarials. There is no malaria in Pai. The anti malaria drugs often have severe side effects. Having these vaccinations is definitely up to you. You do not really need any special vaccinations and there is no malaria in Pai. You might consider hepatitis A just as a precaution.
ABOUT PAI
How do I get to Pai and the Kung Fu Retreat?
- First, you will need to arrive in Thailand. Most commonly, students prefer to fly to Bangkok first as it tends to be cheaper. Then head for Chiang Mai which can be done by flight, train or bus. After you arrive in Chiang mai, you need to travel to Pai – there is the option of a taxi or minibus. For full instructions on how to get here, please look here: https://kungfuretreat.com/how-to-get-here/
Are there any other activities that I could try in Pai?
- Yes, there is a very great deal to do in the Pai area. For example waterfalls, caves, hill tribe villages, temples, elephant riding, rafting, jungle exploring and just generally getting out and about on a moped and exploring. Pai, the town itself is a nice place and many people like to just spend time here.
I want to rent a motorcycle in Pai. What should I know before doing so?
- We very much recommend AYA for motorcycle rental. They will also take luggage on a minibus to be collected in Pai for no extra charge. Most people use a 125cc moped. Bigger bikes can be fun but I think that availability can be limited. Most people learn to ride scooters very quickly. They are not difficult, especially if you choose an automatic. Do please be careful, though, as they are the biggest source of injuries in Pai. A scooter/moped is generally a good idea, and you can pick one up for 100-150 THB per day or 2000-3000 THB per month for a 110cc.
I want to go out on a Friday night. Is it safe in Pai?
- The area is very safe and however people choose to come home, it will be safe. Not only have none of our students ever been attacked on their way home, but we have never heard of it happening to anyone else. Do please remember that should you decide to drink alcohol while you are out you should plan how to get home safely beforehand. Riding home on a motorcycle after drinking is not safe and should be avoided at all costs.
Is there a possibility to get a massage at your location or somewhere nearby?
- We have a very good masseuse who regularly visits the Retreat and administers Thai massage for just 200 Baht / hour.
Are there rivers or hot springs nearby where I could go swimming?
- There are very many places to swim in the area. There are river, hot springs, and swimming pools where you can have a refreshing and enjoyable time.
What is the weather like?
- November to January – This is the winter season. It’s dry and warm in middle of day and afternoon. Night time is cold enough to require a hat and scarf. Mist hangs on the mountains later in the mornings than at other times of year. Views in the morning amazing! A very good time to come.
- February to April – This is the hot season. It’s dry and daytime is becoming progressively hotter, peaking in mid-April (Songkran Thai New Year). The air is cooler at night and before about 10 am. The middle of the day is hot. The land tends to look a bit dusty and at its least green. Can get smoky from farming activity. Pai is at its least attractive at this time of the year.
- May to June – This is the early rainy season and there’s occasional rain. Although the first rain of the year often falls in May, most days do not have rain and it is not unusual for two weeks to pass with no rain at all. Rain increases as the year goes on so I suggest just come in May before it gets heavy. Air is a little more humid. Daytime can be cooler if there is cloud cover, night time is warmer because of higher humidity. Land looks beautifully green. Clouds often sit on the mountains creating awesome views.
- July to August – The rainy season is at its peak. About half of the days, you will see some rain but may only be for a short time. August has the most rain. Rivers and streams are at their highest, waterfalls are their most impressive. The temperatures are moderated by cloud cover and humidity. Training will often have to take place under the roofed training ground. Plants are at their greenest and most lush. This is arguably the best time of the year to come.
- September to October – This is the late rainy season. Rains are dying down but the lands are still beautifully green. The streams and rivers are full. Warm and humid, but the views are still awesome. This is a very popular time of the year.
ABOUT VISAS
What kind of Visa should I get?
Visa regulations are constantly changing. We try to keep our information as up-to-date as possible. If in doubt, please check with us.
Short Stays (Up to 30 days)
Thailand operates a ‘Visa-on-entry’ system whereby people from most countries can simply turn up and be given a visa. People from most but not all western countries get 30 days on arrival at an airport. Some nationalities get only 15 days – this includes people with an Indian passport. When arriving in Thailand by land it is usual to be given a 15-day visa. Much more detailed information can be found with your local embassy/consulate online.
If you are unsure as to whether you will get a long enough visa on entry we strongly advise that you apply for a tourist visa from your home country. Please see below.
Medium Stays (Up to 9 Months)
Before traveling to Thailand, check with your nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate for the Tourist Visa application options that you can apply to in-person, online, or by post. You will have a few options to choose from but we suggest the following:
2 Month to 3 Month long stays
- Single Entry Tourist Visa – This visa will give you 60 days on entry to Thailand and can be extended at a nearby Immigration office for an additional 30 days, giving you 90 days (3 months) total in the country. This is the easiest visa to apply for, is issued more or less automatically when you apply with the required documents, and is inexpensive.
There is an Immigration office in Pai located about 10 to 15 minutes from the Retreat. When it’s time to extend your visa, you can easily go to this office and extend your visa for about 1,900 Thai Baht. The process is very quick.
3 Month to 9 Month long stays.
- Special Tourist Visa (STV) – If you plan to come here for 3 months or longer, we suggest the STV visa. This is a fantastic way to get 9 months in Thailand cheaply without the need to do any border runs. To get started with applying for this visa, you need to contact your nearest Thai Embassy/Consulate for details. The process has been relatively simple given you submit all the required documents.
- Multiple Entry Visa – This visa will give you 6 months in Thailand. This is one of the harder visas to apply for as the requirements are a bit more strict and we understand it is more expensive. Although, if your nearest Thai Embassy / Consulate offers it instead of the STV Visa, and you’re able to obtain it then it is still a good visa. When you first enter the country with this visa, you will be given 60 days in the country. This can be extended for another 30 days at a nearby Immigration office. After your first 3 months (or 2 months, depending on if you decided to extend the visa or not), you will need to do a border run. This can easily be done by traveling to Mae Sai and crossing the border and returning, or taking a flight to a nearby country and then coming back shortly after. This process can be repeated until the expiry date occurs on the visa itself.
Each of these visas will have its application requirements on your nearest Thai Embassy/Consulate’s website so for full details, we suggest you check with them or give them a call for advice. The process usually involves filling in an application form and submitting some paperwork. Since these are tourist visas, you should state your reason for entering Thailand as ‘tourism’.
Long Stay (Over 9 months)
If you are intending to stay long enough that you will have to renew your visa you may want to contact us for some help and advice. Since regulations seem to change so frequently at present, we will need to base our advice on the latest information available. If in doubt, please contact us.
- ED Visa – An ED Visa can give you a year in Thailand. These are available and best done through a Thai Language school which we have one in Pai. These can be arranged before traveling. The Thai Language school that can help you with this is Manna Thai Language School. Their full details can be found here: http://mannathailanguage.com/pai/
If you can’t apply for this visa before traveling to Thailand, but you want to stay in Thailand for over 9 months then you can come here first on a Single Entry Tourist Visa. We can then help you with connecting with the Thai Language School (or other options available) so that you can get an ED Visa.
Can I apply for a visa from within Thailand?
- Despite what anyone might have told you, applying for a visa after you have entered Thailand is almost impossible unless there are special circumstances. It is much easier to get your visa before you arrive.
ABOUT BOOKING AND PAYMENT
Booking
How far in advance should I book?
- We prefer to have as much advanced notice as possible but will always do our best to accommodate you. As things stand at the moment the months November – April (inclusive) tend to get heavily booked and we sometimes have to turn people away during this period. Hence we recommend booking two months or more in advance. May – October tends not to be so busy so during this period advanced booking is not so important. If in doubt please contact us.
What is the best day to arrive at the Retreat?
- We recommend arriving on a Wednesday or Saturday as these are our rest days so if you arrive in these days, you will be able to relax and prepare yourself for your early morning training the next day. If that does not work for you then we will be happy to arrange for you to arrive on whatever day suits you.
- Note that to arrive on a Sunday will require an additional Fee:
Day Time 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM: $30
Night Time 8:00PM – 9:00 AM: $50
I’m ready to book.
- Once you are ready to book, please fill out our booking form so we can create your booking and send you an invoice.
How do I book/pay?
- Once you confirm with us that you are ready to book and have filled out our booking form, we will send you an invoice so that you can make payment. If you need to work out a payment plan, please just let us know. For students who are arriving in the next 5 days, we require full payment.
Are my dates available?
- Please fill in our booking form and enter your arrival date and what program you are interested in. If you are interested in a custom package, please let us know what that looks like to you so that we can confirm availability. We will then be able to check availability on the dates you have requested and will do our best to reply within 24 hours.
I want to take a look around before booking, can I stop by?
- Apple, our student care officer, is here from 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM. You are welcome to call enduring these hours and go to reception where you will find Apple. It would be a good idea to let us know in advance either via our contact form or by calling Apple on 0823920556 during her working hours. Please remember that during the period November – April we are sometimes full so booking in advance may be better.
I cannot decide as to which month to come, what would be your highly recommended months?
- I would recommend August / early September as the weather is usually not too hot at these times and student numbers are usually low. December and January also have cooler weather and the nights can be quite chilly. March and April are the hottest months and are generally considered the least pleasant.
Can I combine the Shaolin Warrior Program with the other programs
- Yes, you are more than welcome to do so. Please just contact us and let us know what you are interested in. We can then advise you on the best way to combine the programs accordingly, or we can organize this once you arrive.
How much does private tuition cost?
- The cost of private classes depends on which instructor teaches them. The cost ranges from 1,00 to 10,000 Baht / hour, depending on which teacher. For more information on our Instructors, check here.
If you have any further questions, concerns or if you are ready to book, please contact us.
Payment
I am ready to confirm my booking, what are my payment options?
- We will mail you full instructions as to how to make payment. The options are: debit/credit card, bank transfer (USD, EURO and GBP) and, of course, cash. Paying by Bank Transfer is preferred – we will email you the bank transfer details that you prefer. Before making a bank transfer please be aware that we count the payment according to how much we receive so if the payment arrives short we will ask you for the balance.
Do you take US Dollars, British Pounds and Euros?
- We can accept these currencies through bank transfer. For payment in cash, Thai Baht is best. It is best to use one of the many banks in Pai when exchanging, as they have a higher rate compared to the ones at the airport.
Can I pay using my credit card or debit card when I arrive at the Retreat?
- Yes, you can pay your balance by card online by using the invoice payment link that we send to your email. We can accept visa and mastercard; either credit card or debit card. Of course, cash is still fine, or Paypal.
When does the billing rate cost, start or begin?
- Usually the time that someone pays for is arrival day to departure day, same as any hotel or similar.
How do I find the current conversion rate?
- Please use the website, www.xe.com, for current currency exchange rates.
What is the cost for the Cancellation Insurance?
- If you are worried about refunds, you should buy our cancellation insurance. We offer cancellation insurance so that payments made can be refunded for cancellation or early departure. Full details on how this works are here: https://kungfuretreat.com/insurance
If you have any further questions or concerns about payment, please contact us.
Our terms & conditions apply to all payments and bookings. Read more here.
CHECKING IN
What time can I check in?
- Check in is 2:00 PM.
- Checking in on a Wednesday or Saturday is preferred.
- Check in closes at 5:00 PM
Note that we have Out of Hours Checking Fees and Checking Fees for arriving on a Sunday:
- If arriving between 6 PM – 8 PM (or 9 AM – 8 PM if arriving on a Sunday), there is an additional checking fee of $30 USD.
- If arriving between 8 PM – 9 AM, there is an additional checking fee of $50 USD.
We like to have someone waiting ready to meet you when you arrive, show you to your room, answer questions and generally help you out. Hence we need to know when you will be arriving. This check-in time allows for you to settle in comfortably, be given a guided tour of the Retreat, and have tea and a conversation with a senior teacher (who will speak with you about what you want to achieve in your time at the Retreat) before going for dinner. If you think you will be arriving before or after 2:00 PM or on a different day, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can arrange for someone to meet you.
Please make sure to let us know in advance when you will be checking in. Check-in is at reception, please follow the stone path around the kitchen to find it or follow the signs posted.
- Can I arrive before the check-in time, drop my bags and wait or take a look around?
- Yes, please just let us know when you will be arriving.
- Can I change my check-in time?
- Yes, if you are running late or have had a change of plan then please let us know as soon as possible. We need as much advance notice as possible so that we can rearrange your check-in time and confirm that it is possible. If you do not tell us in advance it means that someone will have been hanging around waiting for you needlessly or that we may not be able to check you in.
Please also know that we do have rescheduling fees, as noted below and in our terms and conditions:
Rescheduling at 4-6 days notice; each night is charged at half price
Rescheduling with 3 days notice or less; each night is charged fully.
- Yes, if you are running late or have had a change of plan then please let us know as soon as possible. We need as much advance notice as possible so that we can rearrange your check-in time and confirm that it is possible. If you do not tell us in advance it means that someone will have been hanging around waiting for you needlessly or that we may not be able to check you in.
- Can I arrange a special check-In outside of the usual times?
- Generally speaking, yes. We need at least a 2-3 day notice to consider if this is possible and normally, there is a charge for this:
Day time 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM : $30.00 USD
Night Time 8:00 PM – 9:00 AM : $50.00 USD
Obviously, you can avoid paying this charge completely by just checking in at the next scheduled time. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact us.
- Generally speaking, yes. We need at least a 2-3 day notice to consider if this is possible and normally, there is a charge for this:
Obviously, you can avoid paying this charge completely by just checking in at the next scheduled time. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact us.
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