Alexis Wolfe
Wow... There is a reason this place has 4.9 stars and over 200 reviews. It is truly a magical place (despite how difficult the 10-day course was) and you will be well taken care of here. Truly a professional experience considering it is volunteer run. I plan to return and serve in thanks. You will receive 2 meals a day (vegetarian) and your own dorm, with simple but comfortable enough accommodations. Everything went so smoothly—all schedules were strictly adhered to, and I was amazed by how little went wrong, ever. This is a space truly conducive for deep meditation, the quiet is palpable. I personally left this course feeling revitalized and renewed, thanks to the sitting, no phone, and nature trails. I would like to try again, though I am not sure Vipassana is the technique of meditation I will continue with, though I am still sitting daily now. I recommend looking into S.N. Goenka's teachings before you go, if you're a first timer; he's a wonderful teacher with a beautiful philosophy, but you will hear his chanting/voice over the loudspeaker during each sit, and that is something you have to be prepared for. For me personally, that was a challenge, though I have utmost respect for his teachings. This course is not 'silent' in every way, but what a peaceful retreat from the world. Absolutely kudos to the staff and teachers, they are marvelous.
