Retreat Frequently Asked Questions
Retreat Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve hosted 6 retreats over the last year and a half and have 4 more scheduled for 2020. We’ve hosted locally in the mitten state and internationally because I love taking people all over the world and watching them grow when they’re pushed outside of their comfort zones.
If you’re considering a retreat with Wandering Roots, I know that you are making a large investment, not just with your time or financially but emotionally too. I thought I would answer all of the questions that I’ve gotten in the past in hopes that I’ll be able to clear up anything that’s holding you back from joining us.
What’s included in the full retreat package?
All communal spaces and amenities in private home
All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, except for meals specified in the “What’s not included” section on retreat page(s)
Transportation to and from nearest airport for all retreats hosted outside of Michigan
Welcome packet and gift bag
Yoga
Meditation
Workshops
All listed excursions in the “What’s included” section on retreat page(s)
Bodywork/massage will be specified in the “What’s included” section on retreat page(s)
We like to make these retreats all-inclusive. On the longer, non-local retreats, we will dine out for one or two meals to taste the local cuisine and that is not included in the retreat price.
What’s excluded?
Airfare
Travel insurance
Meals not specified.
Gratuity
Other personal expenses
Bodywork/massage will be specified in the “What’s not included” section on retreat page(s)
Is massage/bodywork included in the retreat price?
Depends on the retreat. Check the “What’s included” section on retreat page(s)
Is airfare included in the retreat package?
No, airfare is not included in the retreat price.
Do I need to pay the full price when I reserve my spot?
No, we only require a 25% deposit for all retreats upon registration. The remaining amount is collected 30 days prior to retreat start date for local retreats (held in Michigan) and 45-60 days prior for non-local retreats. We like to give you plenty of time to plan and save for the majority of the cost.
Do you have payment plans?
We do not offer them on our website, but we have worked with multiple guests in the past. If money and payment are the only things preventing you from signing up for a retreat, please email or call me, we can find a solution for you.
Can I share a bed with someone to save money?
Yes! We always have an add-on option for any private rooms that have either a queen or king bed. We do not offer this on our website, but if you email me I will happily set it up for you. Add-on prices vary based on each retreat but make it more affordable by splitting the cost of the room. You can share a bed with your SO, bestie, mom, sister, anyone you’d like. Spooning optional ;)
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is something we strongly recommend for unexpected cancellations and any other incidents that can happen when travelling. We require you to sign a contract in lieu of proving purchase of travel insurance so that you can make your own decision
Do I have to do everything listed on the itinerary?
No, the agenda provides optional activities. Yoga, meditation, excursions, hiking, and workshops are all available to you and included in the cost of the retreat but are not mandatory! This retreat is for you. Choose your own adventure. Only participate in the activities that suit you.
Do I have to do yoga? OR What if I’ve never done yoga?
The answer to any question starting with “do I have to” is always NO! We always encourage guests to choose their own adventure because we want them to look at the retreat schedule as suggestions of activities that they can participate in. You know yourself better than anyone else, so if you need rest, please take a nap. If the thought of doing yoga gives you crippling anxiety or you’d rather sleep in than salute the sun, then please skip it.
We do teach all levels classes which means that all classes are beginner friendly. We also always have two hosts on our team (myself included) that are yoga instructors and we are happy to accommodate you in any way that we can. That means we could work with you privately on a pose or an entire class. One of us could practice next to you in a group class to help guide you or answer your questions in real time.
I truly take it as a compliment if someone skips yoga or any other workshop or excursion because they are actually honoring what they need and not participating out of some weird guilt that they shouldn’t have.
Also acroyoga is NEVER required ;)
Can you accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions or preferences?
This is something we handle with ease. We have a section on our registration form asking you to share these details with us and then I privately share them with chef Abbey and she accommodates it. We haven’t hosted a retreat where we haven’t had some allergies or preferences and it is never an issue. Having a private chef makes this a non-issue. I promise we can insure that your needs will be met.
What if I have an injury or disability?
We are committed to making each guest feel comfortable and safe. We have a section on the registration form for you to share any injuries or concerns. If you prefer to discuss in detail, please email me to create a plan to address your individual needs!
How strenuous will the hiking excursions be?
Hiking excursions are dependent on retreats. We always scout the trails before we take retreat guests on them and we always discuss in detail what to expect for time, difficulty level, etc. so that you can decide if you want to participate. Most hikes are easy or moderate and take between 2-4 hours.
What should I bring?
A suggested list of items to bring will be provided once registration is completed.
What does a typical day look like?
Each retreat has an itinerary linked to the retreat page. One excursion, yoga class, and free time are all offered daily. On retreats longer than 3 days, there will be 1 or 2 days without excursions. If you are a restless wanderer, excursion suggestions will be provided as well as transportation. We believe downtime is important and will not keep you on the go for long periods of time.
What do the included amenities look like?
Amenities are specific to individual retreats but the majority of our hosted accommodations include:
Bedrooms are based on reservation selection, private rooms with en-suites available
Combined living/dining area
Full kitchen area
Fireplace
Outdoor seating
Washer and Dryer
Complimentary Wifi
Private Pool or Hot Tub or Lake Access
Is there WiFi and cell service?
Yes, but it may be limited. Depending on your cell service, there may be areas of the lodging or excursions where you will have limited services. Wifi is available in the common areas and in each room.
I’m camera shy, do I have to be photographed?
No, you do not have to be photographed. Our professional photographer is the best at capturing you when you’re not even looking and always at your best angle but she is happy to omit you from photos if you prefer.
Can I drink alcohol?
I know that most wellness retreats have a reputation for being alcohol free. I never impose strict guidelines on any of my retreats. I truly believe that wellness looks differently for everyone. We always allow guests to bring their own and sometimes we have complimentary drinks. Whatever your preference, it’s never an issue.
I love to sleep in the nude, are private rooms available?
Yes, for an additional cost. Please see the Retreat Package section for all accommodation options.
I’m traveling by myself, are most other people in groups or by themselves too?
Yes, we love solo travelers and we often have several participants that come alone. We can match you with a roommate if you want to share a room. I also blogged about why I think it’s better to retreat solo.
What is the minimum age to participate?
You must be at least 18 years of age.
What do I do if I arrive early to the retreat?
We provide airport transportation from the nearest airport within 2 hours prior to check-in and check-out. Since I am a travel designer, I would be happy to assist you with booking your flight. Once you have booked your flights, please send your arrival and departure information to anna@yourwanderingroots.com. Airport transportation is not included for Michigan retreats.
Can I stay longer than the retreat length?
Absolutely but you will be responsible for yourself and your expenses. We can not provide lodging, meals or transportation outside of the retreat start and end times.
How many guests can you have on the retreat?
That is dependent on the retreat. Normally we host between 10 and 15 and have 4-5 hosts.
Cancellation Policy/Terms & Conditions
All retreat participants must be 18 years of age or older.
Liability: by registering
Cancellation Policy:
Your deposit reserves your room and space in the retreat. Deposits are non-refundable. Remaining balance due 30-60 (retreat dependent, will be specified in details section and in contract) days prior to retreat.
Cancellations made prior to 30-60 prior to retreat start date are refundable minus the deposit. Cancellations made after 30-60 days prior to retreat start date are non-refundable.
Deposits and full payments are fully transferable to another guest.
Still on the fence?
Let’s CONNECT to better understand how we can assist you!
Hopefully that makes joining us for a retreat seem a little more approachable. I promise we’re a really good time ;)
Images by Personal Branding Maven Elise Kutt at Mod Bettie Portraits
My name is Anna VanAgtmael, and I am a certified yoga instructor with a passion for yoga, travel, and connecting with others.
I believe in trying everything once. My values lie in collecting memories over things. Though we desire adventure and authentic experiences, naturally our fear holds us back.
My ambition is to inspire and encourage you to unmask your fears and jump into the unknown.
Anna VanAgtmael | Yoga Enthusiast | Travel Designer