Location: Byron Bay, Australia
To some, spending time in Byron Bay is like entering the promise land – an island that is celebrated all along the Pacific, and is blessed with gorgeous northern rivers is a nature junkie’s own utopia. Escape here to take in the aesthetics of the beautiful island and tune out the rest of the world. Spend long days at the beach taking in the balmy weather and enjoying the local food and spend your night getting exploring nightlife all along the shore. The North Coast is home to skilled surfers and friendly locals who strive for an eco-friendly lifestyle and will be happy to point out the dolphins, whales, and other marine life. The best way to discover Byron Bay is to happen upon things by accident, so take our advice and get lost.
Retreat: In Touch Yoga
Cuddle up in a cozy Tallow beach house for six days and five nights when you get away with In Touch Yoga’s Byron Bay retreat. Its open yoga pavilion lets you practice your poses and meditation with panoramic views of docks and bright blue shore lines. Start each day with an intense meditation, and lead in to a two-hour therapeutic session of Vinyasa yoga. Practice your strength, build up your fitness levels, and heighten your sense of awareness through the guidance of these skilled and talented instructors.
Your meals are served picnic style, and in your free time, you can nap in one of the idyllic hammocks on the beach, or take a hike into the lush greenery surrounding the mountains. Swim, read, or get an on-site massage, and ready yourself for your next introspective two-hours of Asana yoga. Beginners are welcome to focus on Pranayama meditation, and thoroughly learn the multi-dimensional benefits of yoga for the mind and body. Advanced students will gain a deeper knowledge of the biomechanics of their practice.
Location: Fiji
When you arrive in Fiji, all you’ll really need to know is how to say “Bula,” which means “hello” or “cheers.” Locals approach each other which this joyful phrase to welcome one another to their beautiful land. Filled with sun and friendly locals, there’s no getting around the attractive draw of this sultry island. Stepping foot on the sand immediately sets you on “Fiji time” where sunrise and sunset are the only things you need to recognize. Go swimming in its turquoise waters, and more adventurous travelers can surf, kayak, or see breathtaking underwater views of colorful fish by snorkeling. All along the coastline, marine life flourishes, and waits for the eager traveler to explore.
Retreat: Daku Resort
Settle into one of Daku resort’s week-long yoga retreats in Savusavu, on the northern island of Vanua Levu in Fiji. Here, you’ll learn the ease and importance of disciplining the body and mind in Fiji’s hidden paradise. After just a few days of challenging your body physically and restoring it mentally, you’ll feel refreshed and invigorated. Morning practice in an open-front villa gives way into breakfast, and then you can spend your afternoon immersing yourself in a learning workshop.
Daku is located on seven acres of tropical gardens and tree-covered hills, where 23 species of birds and other fauna prowl the beautiful landscape. The peaceful environment also provides a free half-hour long massage, and accommodations in Fijian bures (cottages) with private bathrooms, a private deck, and a view of the surrounding tropical gardens. Meals are eaten together, and food stems from many different cultures around the world, and is included in the price. When you’re not deepening your practice, spend time diving, snorkeling, swimming, or relaxing by the pool.
Location: Tahiti, French Polynesia
Tahiti is the heart and the pulse of French Polynesia, and while its nearby sisters, Bora Bora and Moorea are more beach haven than urban innovation, the three islands together represent the most glamorous facets of the archipelago. You’ll always here music in Pape’ete, Tahiti’s capital, and the city life never stops buzzing around the gorgeous architecture and jovial people. Moorea, however, is a completely different animal. Characterized by its stunning scenery and barrier reef encircling the island, this breath-taking little piece of land is full of lagoons, jagged mountains, and flora that creates picturesque images around every corner.
Retreat: Tahiti Yoga Retreats in Moorea
When you sign up for a yoga retreat in Moorea through Tahiti Yoga Retreats, you’re joining on to a relaxing seven days of extreme pampering, two intense yoga classes each day, and the ultimate relaxation experience. Not only will you stay in an elegant bungalow for two, but you’ll also have access to the resort’s private chef, masseur, and exclusive beach, where you can lay in the sun, swim or surf, or even go whale watching.
The five-star bed and breakfast provides three gourmet meals a day, nightly cocktail hour and wine with meals. When you’re not perfecting your posture and poses, take an island tour by boat, swim with the dolphins, or take a Tahitian dance class. Yoga occurs every day at sunrise and sunset, and you’re welcome to indulge in healing massages and karma release sessions by bonfire. With each day more perfect than the next, you may never want to leave this tranquil escape.
