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Nature Retreat

Placement number: 0035
Location: Costa Rica 
Preferred Languages:  English and Spanish 
Date:  All Year round 
Minimum Period: 3 months

This is an exquisite retreat facility and Eco Resort situated on 250 acres of virgin tropical forest overlooking the Caribbean Sea in the marvelous country of Costa Rica. The artful balance achieved within its environment makes the Nature Retreat an ideal destination for nature lovers, yoga practitioners, group activities and individuals looking for a special, exotic vacation.

Imagine being there, walking earthen paths through an untouched, pristine rain forest. Listen to the orchestra of bird songs. Feel the caress of a gentle breeze rippling through the leaves of ancient trees. Smell the wafting fragrance of countless flowers. Deep in the jungle, come upon streams, pools and waterfalls. The primary and secondary rain forest is natural habitat to hundreds of species of birds, butterflies and wildlife.

At 650 feet elevation, the climate is delightfully cool even on hot days. And during the Green season, refreshing tropical rains create a forest palette even more vibrant and picturesque.

Relax in the large hot tub overlooking the ocean, resting your eyes upon the turquoise sea shimmering in dazzling sunlight. At any time, the resort is perfect for rest, rejuvenation, and adventure. Jungle and beach activities are offered as well as yoga classes, spa treatments and massages. Yoga retreats and teacher trainings are offered year round.

Role of Volunteer

The volunteer program requires participation for six hours a day, six days a week with a minimum commitment of three months. The work exchange will consist in a job that is necessary to the Retreat Center. The jobs will vary from restaurant help, to bar tending, to reception duties , depending upon the skill of the worker and what currently needs to be done at the center.

We will provide accommodations, food and laundry services. The accommodation will be a nice  single room with  a shared bathroom. We request, as part of the program, that you practice with us one hour of meditation at least five days a week. We find that it helps you to get connected with yourself and with what is going on around you, it helps you to be calm. We offer you to participate , at no cost, to one yoga class per day, if you like.

 When applying for the program it is good for you to remember that the retreat located on a mountainside in the jungle. The nearest town , Puerto Viejo, and the ocean are five miles away. In Puerto Viejo there is telephone and fax. At the resort you can recieve emails.

If  your friends or loved ones would like to visit you during your volunteering period, please ask them to contact  the reservation office. Spanish is the primary language of the staff while English is most common among guests. If you are interested in living in a tropical climate, experiencing  Caribbean culture, learning new skills and meeting challenges both external and internal, then this work exchange may be for you.

 

Stories

     Mike Dombrowski, January - June 2007
      "The work itself was enjoyable to me and I found all the interaction with the guests in my work to
       be a great way to practice compassion and patience.   Ah, sometimes such a great exercise in
       patience!!  But for someone with a bit of sense of adventure, an interest in deepening their yoga
        practice, and a willingness to examine their own issues, I think this work exchange program is a
        great opportunity."

       Unknown, July - September 2007
       "For me, the Retreat is an enchanted soundscape of beauty and unending stories. I highly   
        recommend going there and experiencing it for yourself. "

Cost

Everything is free for volunteers with a minimum stay of three months.

 

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