BOOKINGS
How do I know if there are places left on the Retreat?

How do I book onto the Retreat?

How soon do I need to book to be sure of a place?

The best advice is to book as soon as you know you would like to attend the Retreat, there are only 12 places.

What is the cancellation deposit amount?

Please see Terms and Conditions for our cancellation policy at condition 6.

I don't have a Master or Visa card, how can I book?

You may pay by cheque, please send the cheque to Mrs Tania Raymond, 35 Battledean Road, London , N5 1UX , UK . Please make the cheque payable to Ms Fiona Raymond.

Can I pay for the course in full by credit card?

Yes. But there is a 5% charge for all credit card payments. This is to cover the costs of the bank, the extra office work required, and the time taken before the money is transferred. You can also pay by Pay Pal a secure way to pay over the internet. Or you could transfer money directly into our account, please contact us for details.

Can I book for my friend?

Yes. But please be aware, that you will be liable for the 'cancellation deposit' if they cancel. Also you need your friend’s written consent, please see Terms and Conditions.

YOGA

Can a beginner attend the Retreat?

Yes.

I have a lot of experience in Yoga. Is this retreat suitable for me?

Our international teachers are able to further the practice of experienced yogis, but remember this retreat is not just about Asanas, it is a chance to take the lessons from the mat and incorporate them into your life, by learning pranayamas, bandas, mantras, mudras, etc.

What benefits does yoga bring?

Benefits include

physical level

• better health
• better posture
• improved breathing
• improved flexibility
• being able to relax better
• more energy

mental level

• better peace of mind
• better enthusiasm for life
• more creative and open to new things
• clearer thinking

emotional level

• more balanced
• less likely to get angry or have outbursts
• more optimistic

other benefits include

• seeing the bigger picture
• more empathy for others
• getting to know oneself better
• evolving ones motives and patterns
• preparing for the future while living fully in the present

Who can learn yoga?

I am unfit. Can I come?

Yes. Your yoga instructors will teach you to respect and work with your body in a very personalised way to your own level of fitness and ability so that you get the most out of each class.

THE RETREAT

Where is the Retreat located?

I have never been to a yoga retreat. What can I expect?

The atmosphere at Sanasuma Retreat is friendly, secure and supportive . When you arrive you will step into a different world, at one with nature and yourself. There is no electricity so you are cooled by the breeze from the shady trees, fire flies and candles light up your room and the river lulls you to sleep.

What’s the timetable for each day?

The timetable will have slight variances each day but is generally as follows

• Yoga and pranayama to begin the day
• Delicious detoxifying breakfast
• Small group sessions of yogic life coaching
• Delicious lunch
• Free time to swim, go panning for gems, have therapeutic treatments, go for a walk, swing in a hammock or read in one of the tree houses.
• Afternoon yogi tea and herbal tea
• Kundalini Yoga and Meditation
• Dinner and evening entertainment

I want to come on my own, will I feel awkward?

No, this Retreat is perfect if you want to come on your own. It is also great if you come with friends or as a couple but the overwhelming majority of our guests will come alone.

I'm not sure that I fancy sharing with a stranger. Can I have a single room?

All the pavilions at Sanasuma are allocated on a twin share basis. We will match you up as best as we can with another guest. However if you want a night on your own there are 2 tree houses on site a nd you are welcome to sleep in a tree house.

People are surprised to discover that the pavilions are spacious and airy and that sharing with someone is actually very pleasant. The unusual jungle noises can be a bit strange and it can be quite reassuring to be sharing with a companion.

What type of people come on the Retreat?

Most people will come on their own. The types of people who come to Sanasuma retreat will vary.
They may come from the U.K. , Europe , the Scandinavian countries, America , Canada or further a field.

Some may wish to deepen their understanding of yoga while others may wish to rest, rejuvenate and have a transformational experience that they can incorporate into their lives when they return home.

Do I have to go to all the classes and all the activities?

All classes and activities are optional.

However, courses have been well planned to give a good balance between yoga, meditation, coaching and outdoor activities.

You will be encouraged to follow all classes .

However, you are asked to let us know if you are skipping classes. This is important to ensure general safety, organisation and planning.

Can I take free time to myself?

Yes, there will be plenty of time to yourself. There are many beautiful places to be alone and enjoy the peace and tranquility, to read a book, sunbathe or take a nap.

Can my partner come too?

Yes . Why not treat yourself and your partner to this transformational Retreat.

Can I bring my child or baby with me?

We do not think a child of under14 would really benefit from this retreat; therefore children under this age cannot attend.

The most important thing is that your child does not interfere with the peace and quiet of anyone else on the course.

I need to talk to my children, or my office on my mobile phone. What should I do?

Many people 'think' that they must be contactable every minute of their lives.

We encourage guests to separate themselves from their normal lives to give themselves room to grow and develop in a new way.

There are designated areas with telephone reception (occasionally) where calls can be made. We ask that you respect the privacy of other guests at all times.

Will I be bored?

There always seems something to do if you want to, yet many people discover that the magic of a Retreat is about finding enjoyment in simply being. Your day can be filled with twice daily Yoga classes, yogic coaching, treatments, excursions or walks to special sites surrounding Galapita. There are always many interesting people to chat to. However, if you want to be alone - it's easy to find a peaceful spot, like a hammock or a tree house.

Do you have internet facilities?

Is there clothes washing facilities at the Retreat?

Can I smoke?

Yes. If you need to smoke please do so away from the pavilions and communal areas. Please be considerate and respect those guests who do not smoke. Please dispose of the cigarette butts in the bins provided and not simply throw your butts on the ground.

If you are interested in changing this habit please approach one of our teachers who will be happy to provide you with a meditation to break addictions.

Is there alcohol at the Retreat?

No, we don't serve alcohol on the Retreat.

I have a special diet, how do I know you can cater for my needs?

The food at the Retreat is simply delicious and very healthy. It is almost entirely vegan, naturally wheat free, with an abundance of fresh vegetables mainly organic, red rice and tropical fruit freshly picked from Galapita or local small holders gardens. A good opportunity to detoxify your system without fuss. Special diets can not be catered for but it is fairly easy to pick and choose depending on your taste from the many dishes served at each meal. We would encourage you to spend the 10 days detoxing from the foods you usually consume so we do not encourage you to bring these foods with you.

ACCOMODATION

What is the accommodation like?

This is an Eco Yoga Retreat that allows you to sleep under the stars in style.
It’s the ultimate in reclusive vacationing. The pavilions are built on top of rocks alongside the river. They are open-sided with straw roofs, clay floors , mosquito nets and contoured driftwood and a few antiques as furniture.

The pavilions are named after trees & flowers native to the area such as Olu (Maluwa), Na (Maluwa), Kohomba (Maluwa), Kumbuk (Maluwa).

The beds are made up with clean sheets and temple flowers as decorations. Bathrooms are shared but there are enough for 2 people to share one bathroom. You shower under the trees and stars. There is no electricity, however there is a little solar heated hot water. Clean towels are provided.

We only have double pavilions.

Are the beds comfortable?

The double beds are really comfortable please see pictures, you are surrounded by a mosquito net so you will feel really secure . You also have the choice of sleeping in the tree house, which is a really beautiful experience.

Is the yoga room, the accommodation, eating area and bathrooms all at the same location?

There is a short walk between the pavilions, bathroom, yoga area, eating and relaxing areas. You can use this time to enjoy the natural surroundings.

AROUND GALAPITA
http://www.galapita.com/

What are the surrounding areas like?

Kataragama

20 km from Galapita, the greatest shrine in southern Lanka is wrapped in mystery and legend. Kataragama is older than history – a holy city that draws Buddhists, Hindus and followers of Islam. It is a city that is closely associated with the culture of Sri Lanka , a place where thousands of pilgrims from all three faiths flock for thanksgiving and to request favours of the God. The acts of penance by thankful devotees is astounding. The surrounding area is full of beauty spots, each with its own legends of Gods and Goddesses associated with them.

Yala National Park - Leopards Lair

‘Yala’ is Sri Lanka ’s largest wildlife reserve and occupies most of the south-eastern corner of the island. Yala offers some of the most beautiful jungle prospects in the country, especially in the places where jungle meets ocean. The reserve is home to elephant, bear, leopard, deer and sambhur, wild pig, water buffalo, crocodile, jackal and porcupine. The variety of bird and reptile life is immense. The part of Yala bordering the ocean is slightly too far from Buttala to make it a satisfactory day-trip; an overnight excursion is probably the best, especially since this will allow you to make the most of early morning and sunset, the best times for wildlife viewing.

Weliara Wewa - Elaphas Maximus Elaphas

One of the most interesting nearby biomes east of Galapita is Weliara Wewa, 45 minutes’ drive from Galapita through the forest. Weliara Wewa offers magnificent photo opportunities as elephants graze, bathe and spar in their natural habitat.

GETTING THERE

Where do I fly to?

Colombo airport in Sri Lanka . Direct flights with Sri Lankan Airlines take about 10 hours from London . Please be aware that departure tends to be the day before arrival and start of the Retreat due to time difference and journey time. In order to ensure the best prices on flights we recommend that you book early.  

How do I get to the Retreat?

To make the most of the Retreat we recommend that you arrive the day before the Retreat begins. The site of the Retreat, Galapita is really off the beaten track and takes about 6 ½ hours to get to from Colombo . We will have a designated pick up point from Colombo on 3 rd September 2006 and we will drop you back in Colombo on the last day of the Retreat 12 th September 2006 . This transfer service is free.  Please contact us if you want alternative arrangements, we can arrange this for you and inform you of the cost.

Is Sri Lanka a safe country to travel to?

We advise that you check the travel information and advice section at the Foreign and Commonwealth website before traveling www.fco.gov.uk .

However there has been a cease-fire between the Tamil Tigers and the Sri Lankan Government since February 2002. Whilst the peace talks have stalled over various issues there appear to be no signs of a return to the previous hostilities that affected large parts of the north and east of the country. Galapita Eco Resort where the Retreat is being held is a very safe place well away from former trouble hot spots - which were located in the far North and North East coast of the island.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

How much money will I need?

Very little! Once you are at the Retreat everything is included. Around £50 to £100 would be plenty for fees at ancient sites and donations at temples. Bring more if you intend on buying souvenirs and wish to have extra therapeutic treatments etc. Sri Lankan Rupees are best bought at Colombo airport and they are open at all times of the day and night.

What medical precautions do I need to take?

We recommend that you contact your GP or travel centre for advice on vaccines and medication before you travel to Srilanka. We also recommend that you take homeopathic alternatives to harsh malaria medication, please contact the homeopathic pharmacy Helios for more details.

Any more questions?

Please either email us or contact Tania Raymond on (+44)07957226351 UK mobile No.