Do I need to be a yoga student or practice yoga to attend one of your tours/retreats?

Absolutely not! Yoga is optional .We welcome travellers from all walks of life to join us in an exploration of traditional Indian culture.

Are activities and excursions optional?

Yes! All activities and excursions during the tour/retreat are entirely optional, allowing you the flexibility to tailor your experience to your needs as you please. We invite you to approach us at anytime if we can be of further assistance here.

What support can I expect from the Yoga Escapes’ Retreat Directors?

From your initial enquiries all the way to your departure home, we make ourselves readily available to provide information and support and help you navigate your travel experience. We prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all participants, providing guidance on local customs, safety measures and assistance in any situation. Our goal is to ensure you have a fulfilling and safe experience.

I am travelling solo – what support will I have?

At Yoga Escapes, we do everything possible to ensure solo travellers have a fulfilling and enriching experience with us. We are dedicated to making sure you feel comfortable, secure, and part of a community during your journey.

Not only does being part of a group add an extra layer of safety and security, but you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded people, fostering new friendships and a sense of belonging.

Are there opportunities for some personal space during the tour/retreat?

Absolutely. Our offerings balance group activities with personal time for reflection, exploration and rest.

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India. It focuses on achieving holistic wellness by balancing the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda is based on the belief that individuals have unique body types, or doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), and recommends personalised treatments, including herbal remedies, diet, and lifestyle adjustments, to maintain health and prevent illness.

What is an Ayurvedic Detox?

An Ayurvedic detox, known as ‘Panchakarma’, is a series of cleansing and rejuvenation therapies that aim to remove toxins from the body and restore balance to the doshas. It typically involves a combination of therapies, such as herbal massages, steam baths, dietary changes, and meditation. The specific detox plan is tailored to an individual's dosha imbalance and can help address various health issues, boost energy, and enhance overall wellbeing.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Yes, most foreign nationals will require an e-Visa to enter India.

You can find more information and apply for an e-Tourist Visa online through the Indian Government's official website here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

Note that you can only apply 30 days prior to your departure date.

What vaccinations do I need before travelling to India?

No vaccinations are currently mandatory to travel to India from Australia, however you might like to consult your healthcare provider for the latest recommendations. If you are not travelling from Australia, you will need to check with your authorities as to vaccination requirements to re-enter your country of origin.

What is the currency in India, and how do I exchange money?

The currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Our local Tour Operator will be able to exchange money for you (recommended), or you can exchange money at the airport, banks, exchange offices. It is advisable to obtain some smaller notes for tipping and donating.

Can I use credit/EFTPOS cards in India?

Yes! Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and tourist destinations, but most of your shopping will be cash-based. It's also advisable to carry some cash for donating, tipping and street vendors. Stocked ATMs can be a little tricky to locate, so it is advisable to bring along some Indian Rupee (INR) or cash for exchange.

Can I use my mobile phone in India?

We highly recommend you consult with your mobile phone service provider for international roaming options and charges. Buying a local SIM card is a cost-effective way to stay connected, however they can be a little tricky to find. Our group communications will be over What’s App, and while you will have free WiFi in your accommodation and while on road-trips, you will need to activate your roaming mobile data to stay connected to the group and Retreat Directors of Yoga Escapes.

How can I stay safe in India?

While India is generally considered safe for tourists, take precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night, securing your belongings, and being cautious of scams and touts. Make sure to check travel advisories before your trip. You are also most welcome to stay close to the group and/or Retreat Directors as desired.

What should I wear when visiting religious sites in India?

Modesty is key when visiting religious sites. Shoulders, chest and knees will need to be covered when visiting certain temples and ashrams. You can cover your shoulders and chest with a light shawl/pashmina and wear long skirts or pants. Please pack and prepare accordingly.

What languages are spoken in India?

India is a linguistically diverse country with many languages. Hindi and English are commonly spoken, and most signs are in English. The language spoken varies depending on the region, so learning a few basic phrases can be helpful.

Is it customary to tip in India?

Tipping is common in India. In restaurants it's customary to leave a 10-15% tip, and it's polite to tip drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff for good service. More information on this will be provided in your e-Guide.

Do I bargain while shopping in India?

Bargaining is also a common practice in India, especially in markets and smaller shops. Feel free to negotiate the price to get the best deal; we will provide more information on this in our e-Guide. Some stores will display notices advising that they operate solely on fixed prices, which is to be honoured with respect.

Are there specific cultural customs I should be aware of when visiting India?

Yes, India has a rich and diverse culture. It's important to respect local customs, like removing your shoes before entering a home or temple and asking for permission before taking photos of people. Most Sadhu’s (holy man) will not permit their photos to be taken.

In our experience, India is a kind and generous culture, and locals will go out of their way to try and please you. They also enjoy taking selfies with tourists, which can be gently and politely declined should you not wish to participate.

Is it safe to drink tap water in India?

It is considered unsafe for foreigners to drink tap water in India. It's advisable to drink bottled water or purified water to help avoid waterborne illnesses. While many hotels and restaurants provide safe drinking water bottled water is widely available. Yoga Escapes provides 2L of bottled water per person on road-trips.

What do I need to know about Indian cuisine?

Indian food is incredibly diverse, and you'll find a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Some areas of India, such as Rishikesh, are predominantly vegan. It is advised to be cautious with street food and drink only bottled water. Also, be prepared for varying levels of spiciness!

Can you cater for specific dietary requirements in India?

Unfortunately at this time, specific dietary requirements, such as gluten free or diary free, are not often able to be catered for, and cannot be guaranteed.

Yoga Escapes - October 2023

Yoga Escapes Tour/Retreat Cancellations

Yoga Escapes reserves the right to cancel any tours/retreats up to 60 days prior to the advertised start date due to circumstances outside of our control, this trip has been deemed unsafe or unviable, or at our discretion. In these cases, we will issue full refunds of amounts paid for the cancelled tour/retreat.

Force Majeure

Yoga Escapes are not responsible for any cancellation, delay or failure of performance or obligation occasioned or caused by pandemics, epidemics, wars, strikes, riots, fire, insurrection, embargoes, failure of carriers or suppliers, inability to obtain goods or transportation facilities, environmental disasters, acts of God, governmental tariffs and quotas, compliance with any law, regulation or other governmental or court order (whether valid or not), or any other cause beyond our control.

Should a force majeure even occur within 60 days prior to the booked tour/retreat start date, we will be unable to issue any refunds. Note that we strongly advise that you ensure you purchase travel insurance that covers you for cancellations/refunds for any reason.

Government Imposed Restrictions (ie: COVID-19)

In the event a Yoga Escapes tour/retreat cannot take place due to any restrictions imposed by the Australian Commonwealth Government or any Australian state or territory Government or imposed by any Government of a relevant country of destination/flight transfer, the tour/retreat may require cancellation. Yoga Escapes will endeavor to work around restrictions within the capacity of the law, including employing substitute Australian guides, however, if the restrictions imposed occur within 60 days prior to the relevant tour/retreat start date, we will be unable to issue any refunds.

Note that we strongly advise that you ensure you purchase travel insurance that covers you for cancellations/refunds for any reason.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

At Yoga Escapes, we value your participation and strive to provide you with the most professional memorable and safe experiences. Our Cancellation and Refund Policy is essential in providing clarity and fairness, setting expectations and ensuring transparency. In allowing for reasonable cancellations and refunds, we are demonstrating our commitment to your satisfaction while further reinforcing the professional excellence we pride ourselves upon. It is also our way of showing you that we value your experience and wish to accommodate your needs where possible, which, in turn, fosters a relationship based on trust and loyalty.

Please ensure you read and understand our Cancellation and Refund Policy as there are no exceptions to this policy under any circumstances.

Note that we strongly advise that you ensure you purchase travel insurance that covers you for cancellations/refunds for any reason.

• Refund requests made more than 60 days before the tour/retreat start date will be eligible for a full refund.

• Refund requests made within 60 days of the tour/retreat start date will not be eligible for a refund, in part or in full.

• If you have requested a refund within 60 days of the of the tour/retreat start date, for a force majeure event within 60 days of the of the tour/retreat start date or due to a domestic or international government restriction within 60 days of the of the tour/retreat start date, it will be respectfully declined.

• At this stage, we are unable transfer paid funds to a future tour/retreat irrespective of the circumstances.

• Refunds cannot be issued for no-shows, or those who delayed, arrive late or leave the tour/retreat early.

• Refunds cannot be issued if your e-Tourist Visa application is not approved. Note that e-Tourist Visas can only be applied for 30 days in advance from the proposed date of travel; please read the requirements for an e-Tourist Visa to India here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

• Refunds cannot be issued if your passport is invalid. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have a valid passport and any other relevant travel documents pertaining to your country of origin.

• Any fines, penalties, payments or expenditures incurred as a result of any of the requisite travel documents not meeting the requirements of authorities will be your sole responsibility and are not eligible for any refund or compensation from Yoga Escapes.

• We reserve the right to remove anyone from a tour/retreat due to any of the relevant reasons listed under ‘Personal Conduct’ and ‘Your Participation’ listed in these Terms and Conditions, at our discretion. In these cases, any associated or additional costs as a result of your removal are expressly your responsibility and Yoga Escapes cannot be held liable in any way, and no refunds are applicable in any way.

Yoga Escapes Terms & Conditions can be found by clicking on this link https://yogaescapes.com.au/terms-and-conditions

International Arrivals/Departures:

TBA

** Kindly note that while we are unable to book your flights on your behalf, we are more than happy to give some direction/make suggestions where possible - simply Contact Us at hello@yogaescapes.com.au **

Retreat Director, Anna Harris, is a qualified natural health practitioner, running both Samādhi Wellness and Luxe Tribe Wellness Dispensary from Perth, Western Australia.

If you would like naturopathic recommendations on the supplements to take over in India, please Register as a Patient at Luxe Tribe Wellness Dispensary for assessment and access to products relevant to your needs.

In the product brand section of your registration, please note Yoga Escapes to indicate the purpose of your registration.

**You will need to place your order in plenty of time to receive the products prior to your departure - orders are not able to be delivered in person at the airport or in India. All orders are subject to the Terms & Conditions of Trade for Luxe Tribe Wellness Dispensary**