FAQ

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Everything you need to know to better prepare your journey

About the Retreat  |  Yoga Classes  | Booking & Reservations  | Retreat Policies  | Travelling to Siargao

 

ABOUT THE RETREAT

What is the difference between a resort and a retreat?

Our facilities and services are for persons whose intention for travel includes: exploring the yoga practice, deepening an existing practice, connecting with themselves, nature, and other like minded people, or simply enjoying a period or rest and relaxation in a quiet environment. The way of life at the retreat is designed to support a journey inward through our offerings: regular yoga and meditation classes, plant-based whole-food meals, wide-open spaces / gardens, a relaxed atmosphere and warm, friendly staff. We equally encourage mindful interaction and connection. We regularly host events & gatherings that bring together guests of the retreat and members of the local community to celebrate the unity of our existence.



Does Lotus Shores offer accommodation?

Yes. We have four accommodation options: Options include: Villa intended for small families or groups of friends. Each villa can accommodate a maximum of four (4) adults or up three (3) adults and two (2) children 12 and below. Private Rooms our private rooms can accommodate up to two persons. We have two types of private rooms: with toilet and bath en suite and with detached toilet and bath. While detached, the toilet and bath of these private rooms are not shared with any other rooms or guests. Shared Rooms intended for solo travelers open to sharing a living space with others. Each shared room accommodates three persons. Booking is per bed space. We have three (3) shared rooms: two (2) single sex rooms (male & female); and one (1) mixed room.



What is Lotus Shores rating in terms of facilities?

According to the Department of Tourism’s Grading System, we are a three-star accommodation and retreat: “Accommodation is deemed very good. More spacious public areas, higher quality facilities and a great variety of services.”



What facilities do you have within the retreat?

Facilities include a plant-base café and restaurant, 15-meter lap pool, and two-dedicated spaces for yoga and meditation practice.



Are the room rates inclusive of Yoga Classes?

Rooms are inclusive of breakfast and use of facilities (e.g. swimming pool). Guests with accommodation booked at the retreat (in-house guests) are given a discounted participation fee for their yoga classes. Kindly see our website for the current prices. We also offer 3, 6 & 10-day immersions that are inclusive of accommodation, yoga classes, meals, etc. You can learn more about these programs here.



Is there a minimum number of nights stay at the retreat?

Yes. We require a minimum of two (2) nights stay at any of our accommodation.



Can families / parent(s) with young children stay at the retreat?

We welcome families with small children at the retreat. Guests with children below thirteen years must book the villa accommodation. Our private and shared rooms are located in one building. Because of the closeness of the rooms, and our commitment to providing guests with a quiet / tranquil environment, only children above thirteen years may be accommodated here, following the maximum capacity of each room.



Does Lotus Shores offer any in-house programs / immersions / retreats for solo travelers, couples or small groups?

We have in-house programs travelers of all kinds can begin any time. The way of life at Lotus Shores is such that one can have the experience of participating in a retreat, with the added convenience of beginning any time. We have 3, 6 and 10-day immersions that come with unlimited participation in our regular class schedule, full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), massage/surf lesson, under the guidance of a program coordinator. For more information: Blossoming Lotus



I am a surfer / interested in learning how to surf. Would Lotus Shores be a good place for me to stay?

Lotus Shores is located at the heart of General Luna, Siargao’s main surf and tourist town. We are 2.5 kilometers from the famous surf break, Cloud 9. From the retreat, most of the island’s spots can be accessed by motorbike and / or boat within 10-30 minutes. We offer a great space to rest, recover and prepare for surfing. We offer yoga classes for surf strengthening and recovery and can arrange surf lessons for beginners.



Does Lotus Shores offer any detox programs and spa services?

Apart from massages, we do not have any spa services at the retreat. There are day spas near us that our guests can visit. Lotus Shores does not offer any detox programs (e.g. enemas, fasts, etc.). We are a yoga school set in one’s of the world’s most beautiful places. Our main offerings are: classes, community (satsang) and closeness to nature.



I am a yoga teacher / yoga retreat organizer. Does Lotus Shores host teachers with their own yoga programs?

Yes. Kindly find more information (here).



Is Lotus Shores a vegan establishment?

Yes. We invite non-vegan guests to adopt the lifestyle during their stay. It is the perfect opportunity to experiment and discover a new way of being with the guidance and support of a community. We ask guests to refrain from bringing non-vegan food and product into the retreat. We are known to serve the best tasting food on the island. We readily share our café’s recipes and other tips / techniques to inspire anyone considering or transitioning into a plant-based, compassionate lifestyle.



I have a gluten, legume, and nut intolerance. Will the retreat be able to cater to my needs?

Yes. Our kitchen team is well-versed in preparing food for all kinds of needs. After making your room reservation, you will a receive an email with a link to a brief questionnaire that will help us prepare for your arrival and stay. One portion of the questionnaire covers nutrition and diet.



Apart from Yoga, meditation, and surfing, what other activities can we participate in when we stay at Lotus Shores?

We can arrange nature tours to the following sites: Caob or Sugba Lagoon, and Sohoton Cave. We can also organize multiple island tours, hikes, and visits to tidal pools and waterfalls. We can coordinate paddle board tours along the mangroves and island picnics. You can explore these sites on your own or with a local guide.



 

YOGA CLASSES

 

I do not have accommodation booked at the retreat. May I still join the yoga classes?

Yes. You may still join us for our regular classes. Schedule available (here). Please give enough time to arrive and register for class.



I am a complete beginner. May I join your classes?

If it is your first time to practicing yoga, kindly inform the teacher before class begins. All our classes are open-level (unless otherwise stated in the schedule), meaning variations in the degree and depth of the movement are always offered. We also offer beginner classes and workshops. Kindly view our schedule (here). Only a beginner can learn. May we maintain the beginner’s mind, always.



May I arrange for a private lesson?

We can accommodate individuals or groups for private lessons. All private lessons are to be conducted at the retreat, in one of our dedicated spaces for practice. House calls (classes in other establishments) are not possible. Kindly coordinate with our front office via email or mobile (call and SMS). Kindly specify preferred style or teacher, if any. To guarantee the schedule of your choice, kindly provide ample lead time (2-3 days) to make your booking.



I am pregnant. May I join your classes?

Women who have an established practice prior to their pregnancy and are well-connected to their bodies will not be discouraged to take part in the classes. We also offer pre-natal classes regularly. You are fully responsible for your own bodies and your own practice. We encourage you to listen to your body and your baby at all times.



Do I need to bring anything to class?

Participation fees are inclusive of mats and other related props. Water stations are available at the restaurant. Fill up without any cost. Bring your own water bottle. We ask you to refrain from bringing our glasses to shala to avoid damage / loss. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Bring a light blanket / shawl / sarong or cover-up that you can place over your body during meditation and / or savasana (rest). Because we are in the tropics, expect mosquitoes at dawn and dusk (sunset) / late afternoon and early evening.



What classes do you offer?

Our regular class offerings include: Hatha Flow | Vinyasa Flow | Jivamukti Yoga | Embodied Flow | Ashtanga Vinyasa | Yoga Nidra & Sound Bath | Yin Yoga | Sivananda Yoga | Kundalini Yoga | Meditation | Kirtan, Satsang & Meditation | Prenatal Yoga | Kids Yoga | etc Kindly visit our schedule for this month’s class offerings and special events.



I bought a three (3) / five (5) class pass but am unable to consume it within 21 days. May I ask for a refund?

If you are unable to complete the number of classes on your pass within 21 days, you can consume the remaining balance at the restaurant after we recompute the value of classes attended. e.g. If you purchased a 5-class pass and have only attended two classes, these two classes will be computed at the price of single class x 2 and then deducted from the package price. Remaining balance can be consumed at the restaurant.



BOOKING & RESERVATIONS

I do not have accommodation booked at the retreat. May I still join the yoga classes?

Yes. You may still join us for our regular classes. Schedule available (here). Please give enough time to arrive and register for class.



I am a complete beginner. May I join your classes?

If it is your first time to practicing yoga, kindly inform the teacher before class begins. All our classes are open-level (unless otherwise stated in the schedule), meaning variations in the degree and depth of the movement are always offered. We also offer beginner classes and workshops. Kindly view our schedule (here). Only a beginner can learn. May we maintain the beginner’s mind, always.



May I arrange for a private lesson?

We can accommodate individuals or groups for private lessons. All private lessons are to be conducted at the retreat, in one of our dedicated spaces for practice. House calls (classes in other establishments) are not possible. Kindly coordinate with our front office via email or mobile (call and SMS). Kindly specify preferred style or teacher, if any. To guarantee the schedule of your choice, kindly provide ample lead time (2-3 days) to make your booking.



I am pregnant. May I join your classes?

Women who have an established practice prior to their pregnancy and are well-connected to their bodies will not be discouraged to take part in the classes. We also offer pre-natal classes regularly. You are fully responsible for your own bodies and your own practice. We encourage you to listen to your body and your baby at all times.



Do I need to bring anything to class?

Participation fees are inclusive of mats and other related props. Water stations are available at the restaurant. Fill up without any cost. Bring your own water bottle. We ask you to refrain from bringing our glasses to shala to avoid damage / loss. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Bring a light blanket / shawl / sarong or cover-up that you can place over your body during meditation and / or savasana (rest). Because we are in the tropics, expect mosquitoes at dawn and dusk (sunset) / late afternoon and early evening.



What classes do you offer?

Our regular class offerings include: Hatha Flow | Vinyasa Flow | Jivamukti Yoga | Embodied Flow | Ashtanga Vinyasa | Yoga Nidra & Sound Bath | Yin Yoga | Sivananda Yoga | Kundalini Yoga | Meditation | Kirtan, Satsang & Meditation | Prenatal Yoga | Kids Yoga | etc Kindly visit our schedule for this month’s class offerings and special events.



I bought a three (3) / five (5) class pass but am unable to consume it within 21 days. May I ask for a refund?

If you are unable to complete the number of classes on your pass within 21 days, you can consume the remaining balance at the restaurant after we recompute the value of classes attended. e.g. If you purchased a 5-class pass and have only attended two classes, these two classes will be computed at the price of single class x 2 and then deducted from the package price. Remaining balance can be consumed at the restaurant.



 

RETREAT POLICIES

What time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in time is 1:00 PM. If you arrive before 1:00 PM, you may store your belongings at the Front Office and enjoy our facilities or take-part in any of the Yoga, and Mediation classes. Check-out time is 10:00 AM. You may still participate in any of the classes or enjoy the facilities after this time. Belongings may also be stored in the Front Office while you wait for your airport / seaport transfers. Check-out after 10:00 AM will be charged. To avoid penalties, kindly make sure you check-out on time.



Does the retreat have a curfew?

No. Guests may come and go from the retreat as they please. We request that we remain mindful of one other and do our part in maintaining a tranquil environment. When coming and going, especially early in the morning or late in the evening, please observe silence.



What activities are prohibited at the retreat?

We request each person to observe the sanctity of the space and the intentions held by other guests for coming to Lotus Shores. Loud, boisterous, rude or unfriendly behavior will not be tolerated. Smoking, consuming alcohol and other addictive and prohibited substances are not allowed at the retreat. We also request guests to refrain from the use and consumption of non-vegan items. Firearms and other weapons are not allowed inside the retreat. We reserve the right to ask guests to leave the establishment if they fail to adhere to our rules.



May we bring vegan food and (non-alcoholic) drinks into the retreat?

We ask guest to refrain from storing or consuming food in their rooms to avoid attracting any insects, bugs and other animals. Outside food and drink must be consumed in the restaurant. We have a small kitchen and limited fridge space; we cannot guarantee space for your items.



 

TRAVELLING TO SIARGAO

When is the best time to travel to Siargao?

Our dry season is from mid March until mid December. Monsoon season from mid December until mid March. Surf Season is from September until April.



How do I travel to Siargao?

Siargao is one flight away from the following hubs: Manila, Clark, Cebu and Davao City. Flights are available with the following domestic airlines: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air & Sky Jet Airlines. Manila’s Airport Terminals (NAIA 1, 2, 3 & 4) are not located in the same area. If you are traveling internationally and have a connecting flight to Siargao on the same day, make sure there is ample time between your arrival into Manila and departure for the next flight. Manila is notorious for its traffic. Allow for at least 3-4 hours between flights. Overland and sea travel is possible. Ferries from mainland Surigao City travel to and from the island daily. You can fly into Surigao City from Manila or Cebu. Overland travel from mainland Visayas is possible via local bus companies.



From the airport / seaport, how do I reach Lotus Shores?

There are public passenger vans cueing outside the Sayak Airport (Siargao). These vans travel to General Luna. Any one of them can take you to the retreat. The fare is 300 Php per person. Passenger motorbikes are available outside the Seaport located in Dapa Town. Passenger motorbikes or habal-habal, in the local dialect, is a local alternative means of transport. If you would like to request for private van pick-up, kindly send us an email.



What medical facilities are available in Siargao?

While tourism is quite developed on the island, our medical facilities have yet to catch up. Within General Luna, this is limited to a 24-hour private clinic. The public hospital is 45 minutes from the retreat. Private emergency boat and helicopter transfers are available for a fee. We highly recommend traveling with a small first aid kit that consists of anti-histamines, antiseptic and anti-bacterial creams, etc. Yoga and meditation are not substitutes for medical treatment. If you are suffering from any medical condition, consult with your doctor before planning your adventure. Travel responsibly.



Is Siargao safe for a solo traveler?

Siargao is home to one of the kindest and welcoming communities in the world. That being said, it is not a reason to disregard common sense and basic safety precautions.



 
Lotus Shores Siargao | Yoga, Surf, & Farm Retreat