FAQS
We know that being part of a retreat is an experience that will change your life, and want to make sure you have all the information you need. Below are some of our frequently asked questions and comprehensive answers to get you started. We are more than happy to answer all your questions through our contact form or through our instagram page.
CAN I COME ALONE?
Of Course! Our retreats are designed to create a community feel and is a great way to meet likeminded people and make new friends. You can join by yourself, with friends or with your partner, everyone is welcome. You can choose to have your own room or share with other retreat guests whether you know them already or not.
CAN I JOIN WITH A FRIEND OR PARTNER?
Of course! You can choose to share a double room with your friend or partner. What better way to spend quality time and an amazing holiday together? There are also possibilities of a triple or quad share, please enquire if interested.
HOW DO I GET THERE?
For retreats in Nicaragua:
There are two options, you can either
1) Fly into Managua airport. We will organise a group transport to pick you up from Managua. The taxi ride takes about 2.5 hours. The transport will be around midday on the first day of the retreat, depending on the arrival times of the participants.
2) Fly into Liberia in Costa Rica. From there we can organise a taxi for you which brings you to the border and a taxi which picks you up on the other side of the border. It takes about 2 hours to the border and another hour from the border to the retreat location at The Surf Sanctuary.
For retreats on Thulusdhoo Island:
The ferry to the retreat island leaves from Velana International Airport (MLE) 3-4 times a day and only takes 30 minutes. The cost is $25 per person each way. Please let us know when you arrive and we are happy to organise the transfer for you.
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For retreats on Dhigurah Island:
There are two main transfer options from Velana International Airport (MLE) to the retreat, either by domestic flight or by speedboat. Please let us know when you arrive and we are happy to organise the transfer for you.
1) Speedboat:
Male Airport –> Dhigurah: 11.00AM and 16.00 PM
Dhigurah –> Male Airport: 6.30AM & 10.00AM
Costs: 60 USD per person, one way.
2) Flight: Domestic flight
From Male Airport to Maamigili (20 minutes) + Speedboat to Dhigurah (20 minutes). The departure dates and times are flexible.
Price: 140 USD per adult, one way
$70 for children <12.
Transport from Dhigurah harbour to the retreat centre is included and will be organised by us.
DO I NEED ANY EXPERIENCE TO JOIN?
No. You don't need to be an experienced in any of the scheduled activities to join us. Every level of experience is welcome and will be looked after well, whether you are doing yoga for the first time or are an seasoned yogi or even a yoga teacher yourself. The same applies to surfing, snorkelling and SUP yoga etc. We welcome you.
WHERE IS THE RETREATÂ LOCATION?
For retreats in Nicaragua:
With its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and consistent waves, Nicaragua offers the ideal setting for a rejuvenating surf and yoga experience. Surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and stunning ocean views, participants can immerse themselves in daily yoga sessions, guided meditation, and surf lessons with experienced instructors. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make Nicaragua a welcoming destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or new to the sport, our retreat caters to all skill levels and provides a supportive environment for personal growth and well-being. Join us in Nicaragua for a transformative experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to nature.
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For retreats in the Maldives:
The Maldives is a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean and is comprised of 1192 islands that stretch along a length of 871 kilometers. Think of picture perfect white sand islands covered in palm trees surrounded by crystal clear water and coral reefs. The Maldives is home to about five percent of the planet’s reefs that comes with an explosion of color and home to a thousand species of fish. Lured by the rich nutrients that flow in with the currents, large pelagic fishes such as manta rays and whale sharks also make the Maldives their home.
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The Surf & Yoga retreats are held on Thulusdhoo island in the North Male atoll.
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The yoga & ocean adventures retreats are held on Dhigurah island in the South Ari Atoll.
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS TO DO DURING THE FREE TIME?
In Nicaragua:
In your free time during our surf and yoga retreat in Nicaragua, you can relax on the beach, take a leisurely stroll through the local town, explore the nearby nature reserves, try out some traditional Nicaraguan cuisine, take a salsa dancing class or simply unwind with a good book in a hammock. If you're feeling adventurous, you can sign up for a zip-lining or volcano boarding excursion. And of course, there's always the option to simply enjoy the peace and tranquility of our beautiful surroundings, soaking in the sun and surf. Whatever you choose to do, your free time during our retreat is sure to be filled with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
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In the Maldives:
There is so much to do on the retreat islands, especially if you love the ocean. You can swim and relax on the bikini beach, go diving, motorised water sports, go snorkelling, SUPing, read books, explore the island, go for long walks, buy some souvenirs from the shops, join excursions or just be.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE FULL BOARD MEAL PLAN?
In Nicaragua:
On our Surf & Yoga retreat in Nicaragua, all meals, snacks, smoothies and drinks are included. Enjoy as much nourishment as the heart desires.
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In the Maldives:
On our Yoga & Ocean Adventures retreat, breakfast, lunch and dinner is included. Mineral water is included. Any other drinks are extra charge. There are options for different dietary requirements. Please let us know beforehand what your requirements are.
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On our Surf & Yoga retreat, breakfast and dinner is included.
MALDIVES: HOW IS THE SEASON FOR SEEING WHALE SHARKS?
Dhigurah is one of the best places to see whale sharks. It is possible to see them all year round. It depends on the weather how easy they are to spot from the boat. The calmer the sea and sunnier it is, the easier it is to see them. In December the weather is generally sunny and the seas calm, but of course like everything in nature,
it can never be guaranteed.
MALDIVES: IS IT DANGEROUS TO SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS AND MANTAS?
No. Whale sharks and mantas are gentle giants, they only eat plankton and are of very graceful and calm nature so there’s nothing to worry about.
MALDIVES: WHERE CAN I SWIM ON THE ISLAND?
As Maldives is a muslim country there are designated ‘bikini beaches’ for swimming on every local island. There is a designated bikini beach within a few minutes walk from the retreat centre. The beach itself starts only 20 meters from our front door, but the official ‘bikini beach’ starts about 50 meters further. You can also swim and snorkel from the sandbank.
MALDIVES: IS IT POSSIBLE TO DRINK ALCOHOL ON THE ISLAND?
No. Unfortunately alcohol is not allowed on any local island in the Maldives. However, the retreat centre offers great mocktails and 0.0% beers! If you're still very keen on a drink, there's a possibility to purchase a day pass to the neighbouring resort islands which are licensed to sell alcohol.
MALDIVES: ARE THERE ANY SHOPS, PHARMACY AND MEDICAL CENTRE ON THE ISLAND?
Yes. There are a few souvenir shops on the main street of the island. There’s a handful of convenience stores, a pharmacy and a medical centre.
MALDIVES: ARE THERE ANY RULES ON WHAT TO WEAR IN MALDIVES?
On the local island it is recommended to cover your shoulders in public spaces and shops. You can wear swimwear on bikini beach. For our yoga sessions, at the retreat centre and on our excursions you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in.