Join Serena for a once-in-a-lifetime yoga retreat at the stunning Vikasa Yoga Retreat Center!

Activities To Add To Make Your Experience Once-In-A-Lifetime & Explore the Islands offerings.

Make your retreat unforgettable by optional activities all over the Island:

• Adventure: Rent jet skis, paddle boarding, zip-lining, take a journey to Best Of Samui. Lot’s of adventures to be had on this amazing island.

• Relaxation: Massage on site or off site. Thailand is rooted in self care and minutes down the road is a unique unforgettable forest spa.

• Nature Exploration: Boat tours, kayaking, snorkeling, waterfall hikes, visit pig island, feed the elephants at the sanctuary and more.

• Local Experiences: Cooking classes, temple tours, shopping at the night market, grab a coconut and enjoy chatting with locals and visitors.

Where is Vikasa and how do I get there?

Vikasa is located in Koh Samui, Thailand. On the south east of the island, close to Lamai and approximately 20 minutes by taxi from Koh Samui International Airport (USM). Koh Samui is a small island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, a one hour domestic flight from Bangkok. The best way to get to Vikasa is to fly into Koh Samui International Airport (USM).  There are daily flights into Koh Samui from Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and others. Flying is the quickest route, but tourists and yoga enthusiasts can also travel by train and ferry which takes approximately 13.5 hours. You will be picked up at Koh Samui airport, provide us with your flight details to confirm. Airport returns are also provided. Flights are available out of all International airports.

Do I need A Visa or Immuznations?
Travelers from 30 countries (Australia, UK, USA, France, Germany, Sweden and others) who wish to travel to Thailand for 30 days or less,  do not need to obtain a visa. Note that if you plan to stay for longer than 30 days, it is possible to obtain a short extension from the immigration office on Koh Samui at some point during your stay.  Traveller’s entering Thailand must complete the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) within 3 days prior to arrival. You will be e-mailed this form ahead of time. Make sure your passport is valid 6 months to post to the return date.

It is recommended not required to have Hep A & B and Malria pills. Please consult your physician and decide what works best for you.

What adapter do I need for power points?
When traveling to Koh Samui, you’ll need to consider power adapters to keep your devices charged. In Thailand, the standard voltage is 220V, and the power outlets commonly accept plug types A, B, and C. If you’re coming from countries like the US, Canada, or parts of Asia, you may need an adapter since some of your plugs (like type A) may not fit Thailand’s sockets perfectly. Most modern devices are dual voltage (110V-240V), so they can handle the difference in voltage, but it’s still essential to check to avoid damage.

Tell me about the rooms… are they cleaned daily, is wash available and are my belongings safe?
Yes, they have housekeeping clean rooms daily. Bedding and towels are changed every 3 days. They have a laundry service at Vikasa, so you can easily drop laundry to the front desk team, it will be washed, dried and returned within 1-3 days depending on the weather and time of drop off. This is an extra fee. You can also go crossed the street for a more affordable option. Yes, all rooms have a safe for you to store things like money, your passport, or any items of value. Vikasa is extremely safe; but it is good to be cautious when traveling. Each room has fresh filtered drinking water everyday; a mini bar with healthy snacks and drinks with an extra cost, a kettle & fridge for coffee and loose leaf tea is provided. Bathrooms are modern and equipped with everything you need. All our showers offer hot water and they also provide Vikasa branded toiletries. Please refrain from placing toilet paper or any other items in the toilets as the plumbing in Koh Samui is very sensitive. Bins are provided in all bathrooms to dispose of toilet paper and sanitary items for your convenience. All Lotus Pad and Prana Cabana rooms have private ensuite bathrooms. Hairdryers are in all rooms. All rooms have central air. Smoking and pets are not permitted. Wifi is available throughout the whole property. Cell phones will work if you have an international carrier. You will also want to download What’sapp to communicate with those who may not have international plans.

Can I extend my stay or come early?
This is solely dependent on availability. If you would like to extend, we will do our very best to accommodate you, contact the reception team or email us at st**@****sa.com.

What meals are included and can they accommodate food allergies?
Vikasa serves wholesome, delicious, health-conscious meals designed to support you on your yoga journey. Daily brunch and dinner are included. Brunch is served between 9:30 -11:30. Kickstart your day and refuel after yoga with freshly squeezed juice, tea and coffee, sunny side up eggs, a vegetable omelet or scrambled tofu, fresh sourdough toasts, muesli with yogurt or chia seeds pudding, veggies with speciality in-house organic dips, fresh salad and of course a variety of tropical fruits.

Dinner is served between 6.30-8pm with each night being based on a different global cuisine. Self serve options include a nightly changing soup, salad and vegetarian protein dish plus a set meal that changes nightly according to the theme such as a fragrant Thai curry, homemade falafels and hummus, healthy mexican style bean tacos. Seafood is offered several times a week, alongside a vegetarian option. The homemade signature tea is a perfect finish to your meal, or mango sticky rice or healthy chocolate mousse is also served a couple of times a week for dessert. 

If you would like to order any additional meals throughout the day at your own cost, you are welcome to order from the a la carte menu at Life Cafe. Life Cafe is open from 9am-9pm. You will be provided a $100 credit to use towards the Life Cafe or for any other service you wish.

For anyone that has serious food allergies, please communicate with me before arrival

The menu is about 80% plant-based to which we add eggs, lean fish and occasional chicken options. For the most part the menu is also gluten-free and dairy free. They also clearly label the use of nuts, garlic and onions if you wish to avoid these. 

Do I need Cash? Is there an ATM? What other type of payments are accepted?
Cash is highly recommended. I would exchange about $300-$500 USD available to explore the island. Some places will only accept cash and it is easier to kindly negotiate with cash. Changing money ahead of time is usually the best idea. There is an ATM machine directly outside of Vikasa. However; you will pay ATM fees. Vikasa will accept Visa and Mastercard, as well as cash in Thai Baht. Digital payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay are available. Note that a 3% surcharge applies to non-cash payments. Cash is recommended for tipping as well. Be mindful that tipping is appreciated but the standard tip is 10% in Thailand

Is the tap water safe to drink?

Tap water at Vikasa is safe for brushing your teeth but not for drinking. They provide bottled water daily in rooms, with refill stations around the property for your convenience.

How do I get around the Island on my free time?
The island has plenty of taxi’s, tuck tuck trucks, and an app that you can download called Grab which is just like our Uber. All have different pricing and all accept all types of payments. It really depends on how much you want to spend and what the level of convince you are looking for. Tours that are booked often provide transportation.

Do I need to bring my own Yoga equipment and do I have to participate in all the activities linked to the retreat?
Yoga mats are not provided in guest rooms, but all necessary yoga equipment, including high-quality mats, is available for use during daily yoga classes. Please refrain from taking the mats to your rooms as they are required for classes. No, you do not have to participate in all the retreat activities. It is your time. We do hope that you will join as many as you can to meet the community. You’re welcome to practice yoga independently at the White Prana Sala outside of public class times and with Vikasa scheudled classes. Please check in with reception to register beforehand.

You’re welcome to practice yoga independently at the White Prana Sala outside of public class times. Please check in with reception to register beforehand.

Do they speak English?
Yes, the staff at the restaurant and reception speak English and are dedicated to assisting you throughout your stay. They also speak English throughout the island. However, as English may not be their first language, we kindly ask for patience and compassion. Please avoid using slang, speak slowly, and be clear to help ensure smooth communication and understanding on both sides. Remember, you are in Thailand where Thai is the national language, so we do encourage you to be friendly and understand that our team are doing their very best to assist you. 

Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is always recommended tho not required. Things happen and we would hate for you to lose money. While not required, I strongly encourage you to consider travel insurance for peace of mind. Whether it’s flight cancellations, lost luggage, or unexpected health issues, having a safety net can save you stress (and money!). Many plans also cover trip interruptions or emergency medical care while abroad.

Here are a few travel insurance providers I recommend:

• https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com

• https://www.travelexinsurance.com

Be sure to review the coverage details and choose a plan that works best for you! You may also check in with your healthcare coverage or airline; sometimes these items are also covered. Always remember to leave valuable items at home and practice safety first. Stay in groups and always make sure someone knows if you are leaving the resort and when you will return. 

Can I make Payments? What is the refund policy?
Yes, monthly payment plans are available. Your total will be dispersed out monthly to make paying easy. We cannot imagine why you would want to cancel this amazing opportunity, but, in the off chance an emergency occurs the cancellation policy is as follows.  The deposits are non-refundable. Up to six months prior to arrival a full refund will apply minus the deposit.  30-59 days prior to the retreat no refund will be available. You could receive a full refund if you can transfer the reservation to someone else.  These policies are firm so please make sure you are able to commit. 

What is the schedule like?
The schedule will vary day to day. We will begin our first evening with a quick mandala circle and introductions. Then head to the Life Cafe for a happy hour and dinner. After everyone gets a good nights rest we will begin our days with movement followed by breakfast in the Life Cafe. There will be options for group activities sprinkled throughout the week with plenty of free time for exploring the island, pool time, spas services, meditation, and just kicking your feet up to relax. We want to ensure you regroup and relax and see Thailand.

What is the weather like in August? What should I pack?
It is humid, sunny, and HOT! You will receive a suggested packing list upon sign up.

Does Vikasa offer spirits?
Yes, Vikasa has a small selection of organic beers and wines at an extra cost. They also provide a refreshing selection of coffee, teas, mocktails, fresh pressed juices, and smoothies at the Life Cafe.

If you have any other questions please feel free to contact us……..info@hotyogaqueensbury.com or call and leave a message at (518) 636-5354. We look forward to hosting you on your next yoga retreat!

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