You may have just come back from a lengthy, leisurely break, or are just about to head off on one, but sometimes a holiday can be so full-on that you need a vacation from your existing one.
Well, there are a few yoga schools and studios in the UAE offering some serious down time in exotic and laidback locations within the next couple months. We share the details of our top three.
Luxury Yoga Retreat to Sri Lanka with Camilla Way
The perfect Eid weekend getaway, and a chance to unplug and recharge ahead of the manic winter season in the UAE, just a few precious places remain to join these adventurous yogis on the retreat of a lifetime.
You’ll be under the watchful guidance of yogi Camilla Way who teaches a mindful Vinyasa flow style that will both energise and release mind and body, while all your other luxury wants and needs will be graciously provided by the stunning Satori Retreat, which boasts a relaxing and inspiring natural environment set high on a hill, overlooking the lush contours and soft sand beaches of Southern Sri Lanka.
At the land’s highest point, Satori (a Buddhist word meaning ‘a spiritual awakening, often coming suddenly’) has a yoga sala for 15 students overlooking the paddy fields and out to the ocean, as well as a massage pavilion with traditional Ayurvedic massage table.
And to compliment the healing space, retreat guests also have full use of a steam room, infrared sauna, and cool infinity pool during their stay. This package also includes twice daily yoga tuition, a daily meditation session, a complimentary massage and a tea plantation tour among many other perks. Just book now to avoid losing out!
Where: Satori Retreat in Galle, Sri Lanka
When: Sept 18-25, 2015
Cost: Dh4,300 per person
Contact & Info: write directly to Camilla on [email protected] to register your interest.
Yoga Bliss with Alexandra Charles and My Chi Journey
For those seeking a ‘journey’ rather than your typical ‘retreat’ or ‘escape’, My Chi Journey’s bespoke packages are just what you’re after; they are made to inspire and grow your sense of awareness, and help you find your greater purpose while having fun with likeminded people who miss enjoying the simple things life has to offer.
The idea is to take away valuable life lessons and experiences, not pocket souvenirs and selfies from your time abroad. But it doesn’t hurt that they propose to embark on this journey while set among the gorgeous rice fields of Canggu in South West Bali, with private luxury villas and extensive grounds and facilities included, either.
Spend a magical six days and five nights on one of the world’s great destination islands practising uplifting yoga, steadying meditation and a range of soulful activities specifically designed by yogi Alexandra to re-energise you and put you on the path to better health and wellbeing.
There will also be opportunity to get off grounds and immerse yourself in the local culture, which there is plenty of.
Where: Private villa in South West Bali, Indonesia
When: Oct 1-6, 20150
Cost: Starting from $1,390 AUD per person
Contact & Info: www.mychijourney.com, [email protected], 050 692 3591
Zanzibar Spice Island Yoga Retreat
Liz Terry and Katrin Delorme of Satya Flow Yoga invite you for a breathtaking adventure in Africa, and it’s just five hours away from Dubai by plane.
Zanzibar is surreal in nature with a rich, ancient history waiting to be explored. Covered in red by the beauty and radiance of the Flame Tree, and surrounded by deep blue waters, this Island will knock your five senses straight to bliss. You’ll start and end each day with yoga – an energising Vinyasa Yoga flow in the mornings, and a restorative Yin practice accompanied by the island’s deep red sunsets, while gaining more awareness of yoga through the art of self-massage and full body roll out therapy.
The package includes three delicious organic meals and two extra island activities which can range from wandering through the fascinating cobblestone streets and alleyways, and enjoying its bustling markets, bazaars and maybe even a visit to Freddie Mercury’s pad in famous Stone Town; to dhow cruises to explore local marine life and world-class coral reefs, paired with a fresh seafood barbecue.
You’ll have plenty of time to unwind solo too, by the pool, beach, or with inspired organic spa treatments at the resort.
Where: Essque Zalu Resort & Spa on Spice Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
When: October 9-16, 2015
Cost: Starting from Dh7,500 per person. If you book the ‘Bliss Special’ via Yogalates Bliss In Dubai ([email protected]) before August 10, you receive Dh700 off; It’s Dh200 off if after August 10.
Contact & Info: www.satyaflowyoga.com/satyaflow; 050 376 6984/ 04 368 0815
