www.RETREAT.es

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Questions & Answers

Why are your prices relatively so little?

There are no staff employed to buy and cook the food, guests are invited to give some little time to assist with these tasks. Accommodation is simple in shared rooms, profit margins are extremely low.
Will I be stuck in a remote spot for a week?

It depends what you would like to do, some guests like to not leave the retreat all week. Others like to take advantage of excursions. At the very least it is likely you may choose to go into town on market day (Thursday) see the local colour and have a drink and tapas. There are also fabulous walks from the front door.
Are there any excursions?

There are excursions if there is a desire for them. Trips to a mountain village, the beach and Granada are all possible for a modest charge Can I have a single room if I pay more?

Usually all rooms are single sex shared, between 2 or 3. Sometimes a single room may be available at a £20/night supplement.

What do I need to bring?

It would be possible to arrive carrying nothing other than the clothes you are wearing.
If you are coming in the summer, the chances are you will bring far too many clothes. Think hot!! This is southern Spain, with a climate more like Africa's than Europe's.

If you travel with just cabin hand baggage your flights will be cheaper, everything you will need is here including a hair dryer. Towels are provided.

If I only travel with hand luggage what about toiletries?

If you are travelling with hand luggage you will not be able to travel with any gels or liquids in containers any larger than 100ml and those must be carried in a clear plastic bag for inspection ( see the regulations ) . This will limit the toiletries you can bring. Shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, sun tan lotion etc. can all be purchased locally and there will be some provided for immediate needs at the Retreat, others can be purchased communally out of the shopping kitty
Who cooks?

Group participants take turns at cooking for the group. Often this is a source of pleasure for some people that enjoy to cook, however nobody has to cook if they would rather not. Washing up is an alternative option!
Is alcohol allowed?

Yes, alcohol is usually allowed in moderation. Although not prior to or during group time. However the weeks here are not appropriate for people with an alcohol dependency. Cold beers and wine are stocked for guests to purchase if they wish.
What about smoking?

Smoking is allowed in the courtyard, but not in the house or by the pool.
Are the meals vegetarian?

Usually not, although they can be. It entirely depends on the group. Often some guests eat meat others not and the cooking is tailored accordingly.
Are the weeks therapy?

They are an alternative group holiday in a beautiful location in Spain where the contact with nature is direct. The aim of the retreats is that participants leave enriched and enlivened by their experience. The weeks are not therapy although will almost certainly have a therapeutic effect!
Do I need to have been to a group experience before?

No, you don't need to have prior group work experience.
Will I have to do things I don't want to do?

No, nobody will be expected to do anything they don't want to do, bearing in mind somebody needs to do the washing up!
What will be expected of me?

You will be expected to be honest and authentic and as open as you feel comfortable being. Guests are encouraged to be flexible in their outlook and tolerant of others.
Can I "do my own thing"?

Essentially you will be a member of a group for a week and it is important you are willing to "play your part" in the weeks activities. Everybody needs time just for themselves and you will be able to find that on a daily basis, however if you are looking for a solitary holiday where there are no expectations of you from others this is probably not the holiday for you.

Is there a washing machine I can use?
Yes, the charge is 2 euro per load.


Is there a hair dryer I can use?
Yes, there is.
Is everything easy access?

The house is readily accessible by car although the last Km is up an unmade track. There is one staircase in the house between floors. There are a long flight of steps from the house to the pool and there is a longer alternative way down to the pool avoiding the steps.
Are there any age restrictions?

Guests should be at least 18 years old however there is no upper age limit providing you are healthy, active and have an open outlook. The majority of guests are in the range 20's - 60's