I recently returned from a yoga retreat at Samahita Retreat in Thailand with Autumn, and it was truly a restorative experience. Each day offered two yoga sessions that were a perfect blend of challenging, fun, and restorative practices. The retreat space itself was quiet and serene—an ideal environment for unwinding and reconnecting. We were treated to absolutely delicious and healthy meals that supported us throughout our sessions. One of the things I appreciated most was the balance between community and solitude. As an introvert, I loved that the group activities were optional—there was always the chance to connect with others, but also the freedom to step back and enjoy some peaceful alone time at the retreat. Autumn, who led the retreat (this was my third one with her!), does a beautiful job of honoring each woman’s individual journey while also fostering a sense of togetherness. The pre-trip support was incredible—Autumn provided consistent communication and well-organized travel planning, so I always felt informed and at ease. It was also so lovely to see a few familiar faces from previous retreats, and even more special to form fast friendships with so many new women. Everyone was welcoming, funny, kind, and so open to sharing this unique experience together. I left feeling grounded, recharged, and full of gratitude for everyone who showed up as their own unique person, and for Autumn's leadership and guidance. Can't wait for my next trip with Autumn!

This was my third yoga retreat with Autumn. In fact, many of the participants this time were 'repeaters' of Autumn's retreats. We didn't know each other, but we all recognized the quality of experience that Autumn provides---and we all wanted to experience it again. It speaks VOLUMES about Autumn. Several of us jokingly asked her where we were going next year---but we really weren't joking! Autumn does an excellent job researching all of her retreat locations and she personally vets each property beforehand. (I have learned the hard way that not all yoga retreat teachers do so). Another very special aspect of Autumns retreats, besides the AMAZING morning and afternoon yoga, are the excursions that she plans and includes in the price. This year in Thailand we went to a night-market, had a full boating day, and we got a tour of an outdoor Buddhist temple and the surrounding property---really exposing us to the culture and the natural beauty of the area. In a nutshell, her locations are beautiful, her yoga is challenging but do-able, and her price-point is always value packed. MOST IMPORTANTLY, however, is the sense of community and connection that she has fostered and grown over the years. When you arrive you won't be anyones wife/partner/daughter/mom---you will just be seen as YOU. That is priceless. If you are open and want to connect, you will receive so much in return. Unfortunately yoga retreats aren't for everyone. I read the unkind review that someone wrote about this trip. That same person didn't show up for almost all of the yoga classes, and I even saw her walk past the studio some mornings while we were doing yoga. We all recieve in different ways, but effort does play a part in your overall experience. This retreat included THREE one hour spa treatments. Incredible! We were all given times and days that were pre-assigned when we arrived. The spa was busy and the retreat property had other guests. This did not inconvenience me. In fact, it made me feel very grateful. Many of us were in Bangkok when Myanmar experienced the devastating earthquake. We did feel the earth move in Bangkok, but thankfully we were very fortunate to be 1000 km away from the epicenter. Being the professional that she is, Autumn was already in Koh Samui preparing for our arrival. Fortunately, the island did not feel any tremors. Fear is a very complicated emotion, and one that can be felt in many varying degrees by different people experiencing the same situation. Autumn posted a video of the retreat space and the calm ocean, and assured everyone that the island was not on alert. Most of us felt completely reassured by that message and arrived to the retreat on time. Others decided to wait. That was a personal decision. The event schedule had been posted in advance and everyone was aware that the big boat day was the first full day. So if you arrived late, you missed it. This was an unfortunate situation and natural disasters are scary. But, yoga teachers are not responsible for earthquakes. Yoga retreats aren't for everyone, especially if you prefer a more personal concierge-level of attention. If that is the level of attention you desire, I would humbly suggest a 5 star spa vacation.

Well-organized, relaxing trip emphasizing yoga, community, and good food! This is my second international trip with Autumn and I trust her implicitly. She really cares about each individual having a positive experience and creates a warm sense of community and welcome. And, the yoga is so fun!