Not at all. Every movement practice is adapted to all levels; from complete beginners to experienced practitioners. These retreats are designed for real people with real bodies. If you can walk comfortably on uneven surfaces, you can do everything on the itinerary. And every activity is optional. If you'd rather lounge by the pool with a book, that's a perfectly valid choice.

You're in good hands.

Several past guests have been first-time international travelers, and every one of them felt supported from start to finish. Samira provides detailed pre-trip guides covering everything from packing to passports, plus a pre-retreat group meeting (in person or virtual) so you'll arrive feeling prepared and connected to the group.

One first-time traveler said, "I felt empowered, inspired, and connected in a way I never imagined possible."

Many guests come solo — and it's one of the best parts.

Small groups (8–16 people) mean you get to know everyone quickly, and past guests consistently say they leave with genuine new friendships. As Jan put it, "We've already made plans to get together when we get back home."

All my retreats are all-inclusive with some variations by destination.

Generally, your package covers accommodations, meals, all planned cultural activities and excursions, daily movement and meditation classes, in-country transportation, guides, and Samira's planning and leadership throughout. International flights and travel insurance are arranged separately.

Each retreat page has a detailed breakdown of what's included for that specific destination.

Every retreat accommodates dietary needs; just let Samira know when you register. Meals feature locally sourced cuisine prepared with care, and there's always variety. Past guests with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements have been well taken care of. Samira was vegetarian for 33 years and is a certified fitness nutrition coach, so she's especially attuned to dietary needs—this isn't an afterthought.

A reservation fee reserves your spot (amount varies by retreat), and the remaining balance is due before the trip, with payment plans available.

Early bird pricing is available for a limited time on each retreat.

Travel insurance is required for international retreats. Samira recommends adding on Cancel for Any Reason coverage and has a specific provider she trusts. You will receive information on travel insurance when you register so you can make your own informed decision. Full payment terms are on the Terms & Waiver page.

These are small group experiences: 8 to 16 guests, not a busload. You won't be herded through a checklist of sights with a flag-waving guide. The pace is intentional, with built-in free time and room to actually absorb where you are.

Second, Samira has spent decades building genuine relationships in every destination—with artisan families, local guides, and communities. You're not getting the tourist version. You're getting access that only comes from years of real connection and cultural fluency.

Third, wellness is woven through every day: morning movement, meditation, and intentional pacing, so you come home feeling better than when you left. Samira brings 40 years of teaching experience and certification in behavioral change, which means the practices aren't filler. They're designed to actually shift something in how you feel and move.

And fourth, Samira personally leads every trip. Once you land, she handles everything on the ground—airport-to-hotel transfers when your flight arrives late, itinerary pivots when an exciting opportunity opens up, or calling in a favor to secure last-minute reservations at a palace restaurant because she knows who to call. Navigating a Moroccan medina for the first time? She'll walk you through it, share her favorite spots, and even offer AirTags so she can keep a friendly eye on your location when you're exploring independently. After a decade of leading these trips, she has the local knowledge and relationships to turn the unexpected into a better story.

Absolutely. The cultural immersion, adventure, and food alone are worth the trip. All movement and meditation sessions are optional. Past guests have brought partners who weren't remotely interested in yoga or Pilates and had the time of their lives.

Yes! Returning guests, referrals from past guests, and email subscribers all have access to savings. Check with Samira directly or look for codes in her newsletter.