Frequently Asked Questions

Our small group trips appeal to the following people:

  • Those who know that, while they could travel alone, they'd prefer to travel with a small group of like-minded others, knowing that experiences are more fun when they're shared with others. 
  • Those who are looking for a stress-free way to travel, and would rather let somebody else handle all of the nitty-gritty details, so they can simply relax, go with the flow, and have fun. 
  • Those who like personalized attention, and want to always be able to get somebody on the phone when they have questions (without having to hold for 30 minutes or speak to a different representative every time). 
  • Those who are open to making some new travel friends.
  • Those who like the increased safety that traveling with a group provides.
  • Those who don't want to join just any group, but would like to surround themselves with positive, optimistic, open, and friendly people with similar interests. 
  • Those who like a nice balance between planned activities and free time.
  • Those who'd rather pay a little more for a unique, well-thought-out experience, and have a knowledgeable host looking out for their interests every step of the way.
  • Those whose travel investment is important to them, so they don't want to trust that investment to AI or a "big box" store.

There are some people who may not appreciate all that small group travel has to offer. Those who might not enjoy this type of travel experience might include:

  • Those who like to have a high degree of control, and have difficulty letting go and going with the flow.
  • Those who don't enjoy meeting new people and making new friends.
  • Those who prefer traveling alone so they can do what they want when they want, all of the time.
  • Those who have the time and the desire to do all of the research required to put together their own well-thought-out trip. 
  • Those who don't mind dealing with any travel-related problems that may arise on their own. 
  • Those who like to bargain shop, and whose bottom line is the least expensive trip possible (even if it may mean compromising on quality).

No problem! The yoga classes are always optional. They usually take place in the morning before breakfast to help set the tone for the day. But you're welcome to sleep in, skip yoga and join us for breakfast (you wouldn't be the first one, I promise!). 

If you should decide to join us, please note the yoga classes are geared toward all levels, although some prior yoga experience is recommended. You should be at a comfortable beginner level. You can always get started at home with my online yoga practices. Click here to subscribe to my YouTube channel.

*It is also important to note that, depending on the trip and the fullness of the itinerary, there are occasional trips where we may have difficulty fitting yoga into the schedule. If we are unable to practice yoga together, we still benefit from attracting like-minded fellow travelers, and can usually at least fit in a meditation along the way. 

Perfect! I love introducing people just like you to the world of travel. I know just how life-changing it is. And when you are blessed enough to do it with a small, heart-centered group of like-minded others, it's even more sweet. 

We are a small but growing yoga travel family. Don't be surprised if you make some new best friends on your trip!

This is usually not a problem. More often than not I'm able to pair you with a travel buddy of the same sex and age range. If not, the cost for a single occupancy upgrade is usually quite reasonable, and some even prefer a little extra time and space to themselves.

Fun-loving, adventurous people who want to explore the world, and don't necessarily want to do it alone. 

Although our yoga classes are entirely optional, the fact that there is a yoga element tends to attract conscious individuals who are open-minded, easy-going, and flexible (in mind and spirit). 

The vast majority of our travelers enjoy one another enough to become repeat travelers*, which is why this has become a growing travel family.

Our travel tribe has ranged from 20 - 80 years of age but tends to average between 45 - 65 years old. 

Our groups tend to consist of couples and solo travelers (mostly female).

*Over the years, 69% of IYT guests have traveled with us multiple times, while 86% say they would or are planning to. 

As far as I'm concerned, we're all adults, and everyone should feel free to enjoy their vacation with us however they'd like. 

Unless the yoga retreat or yoga adventure states "vegetarian" or "alcohol-free", it is safe to assume it is not. 

For those with any specific dietary requirements or requests (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.), simply let me know and we should be able to accommodate you. 

*With regards to alcohol, while we're all adults and I want everyone to have fun and enjoy themselves, my first priority will always be to ensure the group as a whole feels safe and comfortable. Therefore, out-of-control behavior that jeopardizes the enjoyment of everyone else's travel experience will not be tolerated and, at the extreme, could result in that guest being asked to leave. In this case, no refunds would be offered. 

We understand that life happens, and we can't always predict the future. However, all deposits for an IYT trip are fully non-refundable. Also, upon the final payment deadline, all monies received are non-refundable. 

For this and other reasons, travel insurance is required.  

Guests of International Yoga Travel are required to have travel insurance covering all dates of travel, meeting the minimum levels listed below, and covering:

  • Trip Interruption: Cost of the trip (including air)
  • Trip Delay: $150/day, $750 total per person
  • Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation: $100,000 per person
  • Medical Expense: $25,000 per person

It is recommended that you purchase travel insurance within 14 days of your initial trip deposit, to take advantage of any pre-existing conditions waivers and the option to upgrade your insurance to a “Cancel For Any Reason” policy. 

International Yoga Travel can assist you in purchasing travel insurance, or you can purchase your own here.

While International Yoga Travel has their preferred travel insurance providers they have been working with for years, you are welcome to purchase travel insurance through whichever insurance company you prefer.

In order to offer these as PRIVATE group trips, and to get the best possible group rates, a certain minimum number of participants is required by suppliers and tour operators. When we drop below those numbers, that jeopardizes the entire trip for the rest of the group. For this reason, we need our travelers to be as committed as we are and to have as much "skin in the game" as we do. 

 

Also, when a trip is marked as full (even if there are people on the waitlist), often they have already moved on and made other plans, making it harder to fill those vacant spots as we get closer to the trip.  

 

And, finally, when we pair roommates up together, and one roommate cancels on the other, it puts them in a bind.  

 

For these reasons, all deposits are non-refundable. These funds are necessary and sometimes essential to be able to offset the damage done by cancellations. 

 

For this and other reasons, travel insurance is required (to help protect your interests both before and during your travels).

Yes, we are usually able to accept credit card payments. You will need to complete a credit card authorization form authorizing the charge, and agreeing to our terms and conditions. 

Please note that in some cases you can save as much as 4% by paying with a check (saving costly credit card processing fees). Ask me if your trip is eligible. 

Yes. We may be able to arrange for monthly payments in the amount of your choice. Any remaining balance will be due in full by the final balance due date for that particular trip. Ask me for more details.

If you need additional time, you can also ask me about the 6-month, zero-interest optional payment plan through PayPal credit, which has been a popular option for a few in our travel family. 

While you are responsible for obtaining any necessary vaccinations and/or travel visas, we will always do our best to advise and assist you in every way. 

To research vaccines, check out: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

For Visas, look for travel visa requirements for the specific country to which you intend to travel.

If you have any questions about any of this, don't fret. Simply email me and I'll assist you every step of the way. 

That's what I'm here for! Consider me your full-service travel concierge. Simply email me or call me at 407-383-4196. 

I want to help make this happen for you because I know what a life-enhancing experience travel can be. 

No problem. Simply email me and let me know how I can help. 

"I feel so filled up after that trip. It truly was a trip of a lifetime."

Cassidy Ulvestad

"I love traveling with you because of the vibe your tribe has.
It's all heart and joyful energy!"

Susan Klosinski

"Thank you for organizing and introducing me to so many wonderful, like-minded people."

Carol Jardine

"Thanks for another wonderful adventure!"

Jan Cloutier

"I'm so happy you enjoy organizing these trips. Because I love going on them with you!"

Susan Chase

"Where are we going next? "

Laura Croson

"I totally enjoyed traveling with everyone. I am so looking forward to the next adventure. I already started my vacation fund for the next trip, wherever that my be."

Pat Garrard

"The trip was amazing and I am grateful to have been a part of it."

B. Dundee

"Another AMAZING yoga retreat! You really are spectacular at organizing trips and making it so fun for everyone!"

Jan Clouter

 

Check out some of our other popular travel blogs. Click here.

 


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