This retreat honestly exceeded every expectation I had. Montezuma is a special little town, and Ylang Ylang was the perfect setting — peaceful, beautiful, and completely relaxing. Even my beach dome room felt like a sanctuary. Ali’s yoga teaching was exceptional. Each session somehow met me exactly where I was physically that day. I arrived with a few persistent aches, and she thoughtfully offered alternatives so I could participate fully without discomfort. I felt both challenged and cared for, which is a rare combination. I also tried several of the optional activities, and they were run with the same level of quality and intention as the yoga and the property itself. I left feeling restored and grounded — and I fully intend to return next year.

Ali’s retreats are always great! Ylang Ylang is beautiful and the staff is friendly. She is an excellent teacher. You should go.

Great yoga retreat, location and instructor!

Ali is very organized, spends time getting to know the people on retreat, teaches great yoga classes, and makes great recommendations on taxi drivers/tour services with plenty of time each day to explore or just relax and enjoy Montezuma and the Ylang Ylang resort between yoga classes. Pura Vida!

Montezuma, on the tip of the Costa Rican Nicoya Peninsula, is a gorgeous setting for both a yoga retreat and some incredible side adventures. Wonderful morning yoga sessions with Ali were serenaded by ocean waves slicing among beach rocks, along with a chorus of chattering parrots and parakeets and the occasional howler monkey call. Beach and waterfall hikes, nearby rainforest and turtle preserves, sunset snorkeling/birding trips, and back country ATV explores were at our fingertips. The staff, accommodations, and food at Yling Ylang were all superb. We shared the experience with a wonderful group of 15 people and made great new friends. No prior yoga experience is needed, Ali is a terrific instructor for both new and experienced yoga clients. This was one of the best trips of our lives, in so many ways. We highly recommend this yoga retreat with Ali.