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Tracey, Elmhurst, IL
Anna is a master at organizing these retreats. I was so grateful for all of the information we received and felt completely ready to go from visas to yoga information. I was so grateful for every inch of this trip. It opened my heart and my mind and my soul to so many beautiful people and new experiences. Everything was fantastic. The accommodations were better than I even thought they could be. The safari guides were safe, wise and informative, the food was fantastic, the chance to meet and deeply experience another culture was a gift. Being so far from what is "normal" at home in the US was a great gift. THIS WAS AMAZING!!!!!!!
Pamela, New York, NY
The Panama retreat was exactly what I was looking for, a perfect combination of remoteness, luxury, and adventure! As a frequent solo traveler I appreciate that with these trips, I can have 100% confidence that every detail is taken care of. Pre trip communications are thorough, including detailed packing lists and suggestions for additional activities and restaurants for those arriving to the destination a few days early. Our accommodations in Panama were every bit as gorgeous as pictured and the resort staff was absolutely fantastic - and OMG, the FOOD!!! I thought the balance of excursions and free days was perfect for those just looking to relax. My next retreat is already booked and I cannot wait!
Laura, Durham, NC
The Above Yoga retreat to Cambodia was life-changing! The cultural experiences that Anna arranged were unparalleled and helped us develop a love and appreciation for the people and culture in Cambodia. Anna was communicative and helpful leading up to and during the retreat. As a 3rd time Above Yoga guest, I was a little nervous about how a retreat without Anna would look, but she has done such an amazing job creating a solid community and culture of acceptance and fun with her clients, staff members, and on-site partners that the experience still went above and beyond all expectations! Carley (the leader) was AMAZING. She was thoughtful, fun, competent, and inclusive. This retreat struck the perfect balance of culinary and cultural experiences with built-in down time to relax or explore on your own.
Debbie, Greensboro, NC
With a rating of 5 out of 5, I give Above Yoga a 10!!! I was very nervous to travel so far and not knowing where I was going. I must have asked Anna, the owner, a million questions and she answered every one as if it was the first time I asked. She was wonderful to work with and she had this trip perfected. I thought it would be fun but it was simply amazing; life changing! It was more than I could have ever imagined. Cambodia would have never been the same to have experienced it on my own. This trip took us into the heart of Cambodia, it’s people. I will carry this experience with me always. If you want an eat, pray, love trip, this is for you!!
James, Orlando, FL
This was an absolutely amazing retreat. It has ruined all over trips for me. Anna was so wonderful and gave so much great information and detail I didn’t have to do much besides show up and be blown away with the experience.
Merris, Charlotte, NC
The Morocco trip not only exceeded my expectations but my wildest dreams too. First off, I’m kind of an extreme planner and not one to just wing it on a trip, but don’t have the time to plan this kind of trip on my own. Anna took all the stress out of it. The itinerary she curated for us was perfection and I really felt like I could just show up and let her lead the way (which never happens in my real life). For the excursions, she truly found the best, most magical version of every core experience for Marrakesh - lunch nestled in Atlas Mountains and camel riding in the desert we’re both true highlights/once in a lifetime for me. We’re not really yogis, but enjoyed morning yoga a few times and it was a great way to start our day. This trip was amazing and I can’t wait to experience another new place with Above Yoga.
Becky, Milwaukee, WI
I didn’t know I wanted to go to Panama until I saw this retreat on the Above Yoga website. The moment I read about this retreat I knew I needed to go. I was nervous about being a solo traveler in a group. I didn’t need to be. I was nervous about sharing a room with people I just met. I didn’t need to be. From the moment I booked to the post-retreat survey, the attention to detail, communication and offerings were top-notch. I knew this trip was going to be amazing, but it was so much more. I can’t even put it into word
Meredith, Golden, CO
This experience far exceeded my expectations. Anna truly has a gift for giving just the right amount of information and working behind the scenes to ensure an amazing experience for guests with multiple ideas of what a trip/yoga retreat should be. I didn't quite know what to expect and had a bit of trepidation letting go and having the experience planned out for me (would I really like what was being planned?), but it turns out when Anna is planning all of the travel, you can let go of all your travel planning and have an amazing trip. Even if I would have tried to plan a trip myself, there is no way I could have made it this amazing (and worry free!), and I think that is really the advantage with someone so knowledgeable. Can't wait to do another trip in the future!
Stephanie, Charlotte, NC
"The Ireland retreat was incredible! Yoga, culture, history, etc. perfectly balanced with rest and relaxation. Not to mention the incredibly fresh and delicious meals on-site and amenities at the retreat center (e.g. sauna, steam room, cozy lounges). Anna is a gift! She takes care of every detail, from the itinerary to the ground transportation. If you're considering going on a retreat, book it now!"
Rebecca, Milwaukee, WI
I can’t tell you how amazing it was for a week away where I didn’t have to think, do anything for anyone else, and could just show up and be. You took the time to so carefully choose everything for the full Marrakech picture that I left confident I got the best experience possible. Plus, the yoga really helped me take time to think about myself and my needs that I haven’t been granting myself at home over the last couple weeks. It was some healing I didn’t know I needed. The retreat center was PERFECT, gorgeous, with delicious food and the safest driver I've ever had internationally.
Lauren, Charlotte, NC
This was my second retreat with Above Yoga and I truly think Anna exceeded the extremely high bar she set with the first one. Every single detail was planned to perfection and the communication was truly exceptional. Yachting in Croatia is an experience EVERYONE should have at least once in their lifetime and adding Anna's incredible travel savvy + yoga classes and curation of mindfulness really sets this up to be one of the greatest trips of all time. The yacht accommodations were 10/10. Truly, there is absolutely NOTHING I would change. Anna does such a good job of choosing a yacht and a crew that set the perfect tone for the trip. Additionally, her selection of stops and locations is unreal. She truly shows us the best of Croatia. Finally, this retreat allows for fun, relaxation, laughter, quiet time and mindfulness. It's the best of all worlds and TRULY felt like a vacation instead of a trip packed with plans, research, coordination, etc!
Bethany, Milwaukee, WI
I highly recommend the South of France trip with Above Yoga. I felt completely prepared for the trip and knew what to expect, mostly because of Anna’s detailed instructions for arrival, packing lists, itinerary, and departure information. The unique retreat center is an experience in and of itself. The hosts were amazingly kind and informative. Our excursions were fun getaways and chances to explore the region. And of course - the yoga was awesome to practice on a sunny deck surrounded by lavender and vineyards. This is an amazing experience.
Lindsay, Charlotte, NC
This was my first trip across the Atlantic and Anna could not have made it easier! She provided just the right amount of information leading up to the trip so that I knew how best to prepare. Upon arrival, even after delayed flights, Anna made sure that we had a smooth arrival to the resort and that someone would be there to greet us even at our late arrival. The resort was incredible. From the location to the food to the staff, everything exceeded my expectations. The rooms were spectacular and Anna made sure to add a personal touch for each guest. I had long dreamed of visiting Morocco, but I had no idea how to begin planning such a trip. Anna's itinerary included all of the things you'd want to see as a tourist, but it also included a few excursions that I would have never been able to find on my own, like the cooking class! Overall, the trip was an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience and I am so grateful to have had Anna guide us through it all.
Anne, Greenwich, CT
Everything about this trip worked for me. The pre-trip communication was sufficient without being excessive. The airport pickup was smooth and painless. The yoga was perfect for me. I attended every class but knew I had the option to skip. The retreat property was beautiful, the owners and staff members were delightful, the food was delicious and all of the coastal excursions were great. It was just the right balance of activity and relaxation with cool new friends!
Colleen, Lakewood, OH
I've never been the type of person to spend a lot of money on a "treat myself" vacation, and I've certainly never seen myself as the type of person that would go on a yoga retreat - I've probably only taken 20-30 yoga classes in my entire life. However, from the moment Anna told me about this trip I knew I had to be there. It seemed like the perfect combination of relaxation, yoga and beach time to help me unwind after a very busy year of work. Every vacation I typically take is action packed, from various tours to day-long hikes to filling every moment of every day sightseeing...and this trip was the exact opposite, in the best way! From the second I arrived at our villa, it was pure relaxation and a truly "unplugged" experience. I really enjoyed my morning runs followed by yoga next to the pool - it was the perfect start to each day. I napped in the pool, in the hammocks and at the beach, read five books and even enjoyed a facemask with a glass of wine one night! I arrived back home after the trip feeling truly refreshed for the first time after a vacation, and still feel calmer even though I've been back in the real world for three weeks. I also can't say enough good things about Anna's planning and communication around this trip. Every detail was thoroughly planned and Anna was extremely quick with replies to questions. As someone who appreciates a good packing list, I was extremely grateful that Anna provided a detailed packing list for the trip so you only brought what was needed. Last thing - THE VILLA and FOOD! The villa was breathtakingly beautiful and the food was incredible - so fresh and delicious. I'll be dreaming about the poke bowl lunch for a very long time. THANK YOU so much for providing a vacation that was actually relaxing - and one that I'll never forget!
Tracey, Cornelius, NC
One of the things that stand out for myself and my fiancé, as we have travelled to these retreats together, is the planning, communication, the details that myself and most would probably forget. This is where Anna comes in. Her focus on detail, making each of us feel safe and welcome. As an example, she had a cooler filled with cool lavender cloths for yoga. (it's the small details that go a long way, and then for someone like myself and fiancé or are new to traveling internationally, she made this experience so wonderful. This is our second retreat. We have already booked another this year, and plan to book again in 2025.
Krista, Fair Oaks, CA
"The communication from start to finish was excellent. I especially appreciated the commitment to keeping everyone as safe as possible with COVID, and the communication surrounding vaccine, testing, and mask requirements. The yacht and crew were amazing! I don't think any future vacation can top how spoiled we were in Croatia!"
Marcie, Richmond, VA
"Anna made our trip to Croatia memorable for so many reasons. Visiting a foreign country, during a pandemic, is challenging but she couldn’t have made it any easier. She let us know exactly what to expect, how to prepare and was always quick to update us when things changed. Also, I really appreciated her policy around vaccines and testing. Once we got there we didn’t have to think about a thing. Anna had everything under control and set the tone for a fun and relaxing retreat. We made some great new friends and long lasting memories. We were so spoiled we can’t imagine traveling without Above Yoga!"
Megan, Denver, CO
"This was a very well designed retreat, on top of being the best vacation I have ever had. Getting to meet the other participants over Zoom was one thing that set this retreat apart- it helped get me excited to spend the week with an awesome group! Anna's emails in the months leading up to the trip were immensely helpful, and they were very detailed. I do not travel very much so the level of detail provided was huge, and made me feel like I had all of my "i"s dotted and "t"s crossed before heading overseas. Where we stayed in France was absolutely magical, and I would go back in a heartbeat. Waking up to do yoga in this setting, with birds chirping, the occasional cat or chicken wandering by, and our morning ginger drink made for an unforgettable experience. We were able to take multiple excursions to a variety of destinations to explore, such as unique small towns, a seaside village, and a one of a kind winery complete with donkeys! While on our retreat, we ate delicious food, drank wonderful local wine, and had endless laughs with new friends. This was a special retreat and I feel lucky to have been part of it."
I could not more highly recommend Above Yoga retreats!! Anna is so communicative, thoughtful, and knowledgeable, making the whole process of traveling during the uncertainty of COVID as easy as possible! We so appreciated how COVID cautious Anna was and how she always seemed to anticipate every question we could possibly have. We had never attended an in-person yoga class before this trip and appreciated how accessible and judgment-free Anna’s classes were. The trip had a perfect balance of activity, relaxation, cultural experiences, and good food. We had such an amazing experience that we spent the last night of this trip planning the next Above Yoga retreat that we wanted to go on!
Shannon, Charlotte, NC
“This retreat well surpassed any expectation I had going into it. Anna's attention to every aspect of the experience is second to none. From the moment you arrive, it is obvious that she has done her homework on the retreat location, activities that appeal to everyone's interests, is well versed in local culture, and is prepared to offer a grade A hospitality experience to each of her guests.
Whether you are a yoga instructor or have never practiced, Anna's retreats are for everyone. Going into it I felt that the retreat was a little out of my comfort zone, but the people that Anna surrounds herself with are just as welcoming as she is. Phenomenal all around experience start to finish. I cannot praise her efforts enough!”
Sarah, Milwaukee, WI
"Anna's attention to every detail is beyond compare! From the moment we booked our retreat, her communication with us was timely and just the right amount. I felt comfortable upon arrival, at every excursion, to our departure. The villa was absolutely perfect: clean, safe, private and beautiful. The schedule was clear and organized but also allowed for a lot of flexibility and spontaneity - a great balance for a retreat/vacation.
Anna's calm energy was also super-appreciated. Even though I know she was working very hard behind the scenes, she was always relaxed, calm and organized, which helped all of us, I think, feel the same way during the the entire retreat. Truly excellent!"
Michael, Pittsburgh, PA
"Not to be dramatic, but Anna was born to do this. She approaches retreat-planning so confidently, it's hard not to feel at ease, even as an anxious traveler. I don't think there was a single scheduling snafu or hiccup the entire time we were in Mexico—and if there was, she did an excellent job of hiding it! Anna truly enjoys connecting people, putting together well-priced and well-balanced travel plans, and spreading her love of international culture. I look forward to my next retreat with Above Yoga."
Nichole, Daytona Beach, FL
"A lifetime of memories and friendships are created on every Above Yoga retreat I have been on. For someone who has to plan every aspect in my work life, it is such a pleasure to allow Anna to take care of every detail of my vacation. I eagerly await which locations Above Yoga will go to next. I can’t wait to sign up for my next yoga retreat!"
Melissa, Downers Grove, IL
"What a wonderful retreat! Above Yoga takes care of every detail making travel stress free and easy. Although I went for yoga, sun and relaxation, I came away grateful for the time spent with new friends exploring a new country. The nature walk and swim in the cenotes were the highlight of the trip."
Lori, Winston-Salem, NC
“Anna is prompt in communication. I really appreciated her keeping in contact with us during COVID. She was always open to being asked questions. The retreat venue felt like paradise. The staff we interacted with were very welcoming. I only attended one yoga class and I never felt any type of pressure to do more. I can't wait to go back."
Carol, Blacksburg, VA
“Anna was so organized and enthusiastic! Yoga morning and night was a great way to wake up and wind down! Wish I had someone to make all those wonderful meals every day - so creative and tasty! Wasn't sure how I would do since I'm not totally vegetarian, but I loved them."
Ana, Washington, DC
"I loved every part of the retreat. Anna communicated clearly about what to expect, there were no any surprises when I arrived, the place was even better than in the pictures. I would not change anything about the villa, the excursions, meals and the staff. Overall it was a lovely time. I really enjoyed my room, it was spacious and very pretty. I felt welcome and comfortable the whole time I was there. Plus, I know that Anna was always there ready to help me with anything I needed."
Stuart, Charlotte, NC
“This was an absolutely eye-opening trip and after lots of apprehension I am thrilled that I joined the group. Anna's thorough communication regarding COVID was helpful and reassuring. I appreciated that she provided actual information directly from her contacts in Cambodia. Her info on visas and what to bring on the trip was crucial.
The retreat property was central to the markets, shopping and so unique. The staff was helpful and attentive. We also could not have had a better tour guide for our excursions Yung made us feel like a part of his family and less like a tourist. I feel like we had very intimate experiences and got to know the country and its people better. I absolutely loved all the experiences associated with the retreat. They were so important to round out the trip. Meals were great on-property and off. Great job Anna. I wish I could go on all of your retreats!"
Harry, New York, NY
"I had an absolute blast! Anna organized an incredible time for us all in Tulum. From the accommodation to the yoga classes to the excursions nothing was short on fun.
I was a little nervous heading in since I was such a novice, but Anna put everyone at ease and the classes were so well-prepared that even the master yogis were left sweating while the newbies held their own. Thanks again for a really good trip Anna, I'll forever cherish it."
Katie, Charlotte, NC
"This is my 3rd retreat with Anna and Above Yoga and I can say that they have all been wonderful! Morocco was magical. It was so different from any other place I have ever been. I appreciate Anna's previous scouting to make sure the location is a good fit for her retreat guests. She also kept us updated on the current COVID situation in Morocco to ease any pre-trip worries. It was nice to have a bubble of new friends at the villa that I could interact with and not worry about COVID. Anna's pre-trip communication (emails and Zoom meetings) was so helpful in determining how to navigate what to wear and exchanging currency.
I always love how these retreats are "have it your way" and there is no pressure to do all or any of the activities planned. This trip was so hard to decide what to do during my time off because there were so many good options. I am continued to be amazed at the connections I make during these retreats. We had an amazing time together laughing and being our vulnerable, authentic selves. I also enjoy running into past guests of other retreats I've been on. I can't wait to travel again with Above Yoga!
"This retreat was everything I imagined and more. Anna was the absolutely perfect host, providing communication from even the very early days up to documenting her travel into Croatia so we knew what to expect. Except....there's no way to have a realistic expectation for a trip like this because it is beyond what I think a normal person in the US could imagine. Swimming in crystal clear waters, exploring the most beautiful cities and ports I've ever seen, eating the most incredible vegetarian meals and interacting with the COOLEST people I've ever been on a trip with. Every detail was perfect, down to having straps on-site for restorative yoga. When I first saw the strap I wasn't sure I'd need it - it became my new favorite piece of exercise equipment in my house. I use it every day, thanks to the incredible classes I took that I normally would gloss over at my home yoga studio.
This wasn't just a vacation to a new part of the world, it was a journey back to the best me. The me that I strive to be but am often moving so fast I can't get there. After spending a week with likeminded, insightful and caring individuals, making a concerted effort to better our wellness and mind and truly taking the encouragement from Anna (and our other amazing teachers) to still the mind, move the body and soak in the experience, I came back to the US with a calmer and more peaceful state of mind. I know this feeling won't last forever so I'm already deciding what retreat to go on next :) I honestly thought this would just be a really cool vacation and experience and after attending, I know it was so much more than that and I'm SO thankful that Anna has made this her life's mission."
Courtney, Charlotte, NC
“This was my first retreat with Above Yoga and it exceeded all my expectations. The pre-trip communication was perfectly detailed but not too much. I felt like all my travel details were under control and the helpful tips on booking trains really made my preparation easy.
Once we arrive to the retreat center, I felt like I was in heaven. The home and the property were like something out of a fairy tale book and I was completely in awe the entire time. The first full day of relaxation was my favorite and it was nice to have downtime to do yoga, read, eat healthy food and 'just be.' The following days were filled with perfectly planned excursions and really enhanced the trip. The bike ride with the picnic was probably my favorite as I would have never been able to plan something like that on my own. The food was incredible and very thoughtful. Anna & Jillian planned out appropriate yoga classes for the group and meditations included in the classes were really nice. The friendships formed on this trip will be something I will carry with me for a long time.
Glenn, New York, NY
“I never imagined I would go on a trip like this before. I wasn’t sure what to expect and got a bit nervous as the trip grew near! Ironically, some of the aspects I was most nervous about were the parts that I ended up enjoying the most. Meeting and spending time with strangers that I never would have crossed paths with before was an unexpected joy. This was by the far the most I have ever practiced yoga in one week and I LOVED it. Thank you, Anna, for creating and organizing this trip.”
“I don’t know if I ever would have traveled to SE Asia if it weren’t for this retreat. I’m a yogi but my husband is not, and we both thoroughly enjoyed the retreat (made for any level of yoga practice). Anna provided travel adviser-like expertise for visas, flights, packing, pre- and post-retreat travel ideas, and was so informative about travel to SE Asia especially after the coronavirus outbreak.
She curated fun, cultural activities and made everything optional so we could do as much yoga and exploring as a group or have downtime as needed. She cares for her travelers - she followed everyone’s flights to make sure we got in, helped a traveler with delayed luggage and had a First Aid kit she wasn’t afraid to use.
Anna scouts her trips making connections to provide the best opportunity to experience Cambodian culture and a unique bike tour watching the sunset in rice fields - all with the wonderful guide she met previously.”
Andrea, Boise, ID
“Wonderful trip with a nice blend of yoga, sightseeing and unique experience like the sunset sailboat cruise. The group was small but delightful, and easy to get to know. The villa was fabulous and so much nicer than staying in a hotel. The property (including the rooms) were stunning, the roof top pool magnificent and the location (only a couple of blocks from the beach) perfect. "
Amanda, Nashville, TN
“Anna was on point with her communication throughout the entire process. There was never a question that I had that she hadn't already answered or wasn't available to answer in lightening speed. She was so relaxed and inviting the entire trip and never showed any sign of stress, even if there was a hiccup, which honestly, I can't remember if there was."
“This was my first 'group travel' experience, and it was perfect from start to finish. Though I often travel alone, this was a part of the world I wasn't sure I felt comfortable going solo. Anna was able to apply her experiences from the scouting trip to allow us to experience the best of what this part of SE Asia had to offer. The pre-trip information, provided in advance, was comprehensive and very informative in setting expectations for what we would need and what we could expect.
The hotel was an ideal 'home base,' and one I would return to if I came back to the area. The variety of activities offered were perfect and uniquely showcased the best of Cambodia. I especially appreciated that part of our trip costs went to the PLC, and loved that we were able to visit the school and meet the kids who would benefit."
Nicole, Wausau, WI
"One of the best trips of my life! No planning on my part and come out of it with 12 new friends from around the world. Thank you for being the best organizer / tour guide / leader and new friend! I had a blast, thank you!!"
Jocelyn, Charlotte, NC
“I HAD SO MUCH FUN!! I felt like I grew in my yoga practice, which was my main intention for the trip. I loved the hands on one-on-one teacher experience. I loved being able to have a trip planned so I didn't have to do any of the research."
Lindsay, Charleston, SC
"This experience was absolutely the best! Anna kept in contact with all the necessary details and updates leading up to the trip, so I felt totally prepared and had no worries about traveling and having what I needed. Having 2 yoga options a day was amazing - an energetic practice in the morning and gentle in the evening, a variety of teachers, and all beginner friendly. I loved being able to roll right into breakfast and dinner after the yoga. The meals by Chef Daniel were so good- fresh, healthy, delicious, and plenty of food so I never felt like I didn't have enough to eat. The villa felt like living in total luxury, and the on-site staff was friendly and there for anything we needed. Anna planned a perfect balance of optional excursions and downtime for relaxing. We even had a mobile app that provided us with a map of the resort area and an up to date itinerary of our planned activities. Anna made sure we knew all yoga and activities were optional, so this really took the pressure off and allowed each of us to really make the vacation our own. The best part - spending time with and getting to know new friends on the trip! I highly recommend a retreat with Anna and Above Yoga, you won't be disappointed!"
Jennifer, Blacksburg, VA
“This trip was amazing! I had never been on a yoga retreat or traveled to Europe. From the beginning to end Anna had everything planned out and was extremely organized. She answered all of my questions and made sure all of us were well-prepared for international travel. I could not have asked for a better experience."
Jen, Washington, DC
“Words cannot describe how incredible this trip was! From the moment I signed up, there was steady and clear communication - I didn't have to worry about a thing.
This remained consistent throughout the trip, with a number of wonderful activities planned and plenty of suggestions for activities during free time. Additionally, Anna did an incredible job of coordinating any free time activities someone wanted to take part in.
Her coordination and organization throughout the trip allowed for the perfect vacation. (I would also like to add the itinerary provided was excellent! I always knew what activities would be taking place during the day, what items I would need, and the times I would need to be places in order to participate).”
Angela, Charlotte, NC
"Above Yoga has changed my outlook on yoga retreats! Yoga retreats seemed inaccessible to a novice yogi. But that all changed from the moment I learned about the way Anna builds her retreats. There is yoga, and free time built, but also carefully curated excursions. These details truly make it feel like you are on a “vacation with intention”. From the thoughtful packing list, to the Zoom meeting with our fellow travelers, I never felt the need to ask for more information; it was all at my fingertips! I am forever grateful for the memories of the sights and sounds of Puerto Vallarta, as well as making lifelong friendships. There is no way you will regret gifting yourself the time away. I came home feeling refreshed, rested, and ready to dive back into my day-to-day."
Ready to have your own incredible retreat experience and make amazing vacation memories and new friends? Check out some of our upcoming offerings below.
Panama
18 - 24 February 2024· 6 nights
A curated wellness, cultural + culinary experience on Panama's sparsely populated Pacific coast. Quiet, remote + totally authentic Panama!
FREE
Mexico
2 - 8 March 2024· 6 nights
A boutique coastal wellness + cultural experience on Mexico's west coast
Morocco
28 September - 4 October 2024· 6 nights
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of North Africa with a perfectly curated mix of cultural + culinary excursions.