Castara, Tobago May 7-14, 2022
Ready for a new and unique experience? Come join Freedom Journey Yoga Retreats for this delicious week in the warm and magnificent Caribbean island of Tobago. You’ll fly into Trinidad and then take a 25-minute puddle jumper to Tobago. There we’ll be staying in the most incredible retreat location for a full week of optional yoga, authentic Caribbean cooking, walks on the beach, a few meals ‘in town’, a waterfall walk, and more.
Located on Tobago’s quieter western coast, away from the island’s more populated south, in the small fishing village of Castara you’ll get a sense of the ‘real Tobago’. Whether your aim is to soak up the local culture, hang out on the beach, or appreciate the splendor of flora and fauna, Castara reveals its hidden gems to anyone seeking a Caribbean experience within an authentic and welcoming local community.
I’ve chosen this time of year for several reasons. The holidays are all over, the weather is more dependable for flying AND the flights are cheaper! The village is a little quieter, too.
*There are a limited number of spaces for this retreat. I encourage you to consider signing up soon.
We’ll be staying in amazing Ecolodges with private baths and fully equipped kitchens in each. We will experience contemporary living and the blend of elegant interiors with natural elements. There are also studio and more upscale options available.
Castara has it’s own restaurant and we’ll be served 3 delicious meals per day, with the exception of one dinner and two lunches in the village, so we can explore a bit of the Castara community and even a little night life.
Caribbean Kitchen offers open-air dining with superb panoramic view towards the beach, ocean and rainforest. It is a magical spot for watching hummingbirds over a leisurely lunch, savouring the sunset over cocktails, or enjoying a candle-lit dinner, serenaded by the sound of the waves. We will be served inventive, wholesome food in a relaxed atmosphere.
What’s Included?
- 7 Nights Accommodations in your choice of selected Castara rooms/suites
- 3 Delicious Meals per day (with the exception of two lunches and a dinner in the village)
- Transfer from airport to Castara, and the return to the airport
- Coffee maker in every house
- Two optional yoga classes per day. Typically we have a longer session in the morning which includes meditation, breathwork and thematic information as well as the asana practice. In the late afternoon is a shorter, relaxing Yin Yoga or Yoga Nidra class.
- Yoga Props
- A walk to the waterfalls
- One evening and two daytime opportunities to explore the village, do some shopping, and have a meal.
- Beach Bonfire Party
What’s Not Included?
- Transportation to and from Tobago
- Optional Excursions or wellness treatments *See excursion options below*
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages besides coffee and tea (they are available at Castara, however)
- One dinner and two lunches out
- Gratuities (Note: there is not a big tipping culture in Trinidad and Tobago and tips are not expected for taxi service or housekeeping staff. That said, they are always welcome, but will be an individual choice. For restaurants, sometimes a service charge is added, and if not, 10%-15% tip is common).
Accommodations:
Treetops
VIEWS THROUGH THE GREENERY
With a sense of being suspended among the branches of a great mango tree, indulge yourself in the most spacious two-bedroom penthouse apartment. Treetops offers a “living in the landscape” experience, with sweeping views through the foliage to the Caribbean Sea from an expansive 40 foot living area.
SPACIOUS OPEN-PLAN LIVING
Treetops is a spacious haven that maximizes the views to the beach, ocean and coastline. The open-plan layout ensures there is ample space for cooking, dining and relaxing. With a private outdoor terrace surrounded by lush tropical greenery, there is no shortage of spots to soak up the panorama.
SIGHTS AND SOUNDS
Treetops is one of our apartments closest to the village. As a consequence, the sounds of Castara are more prominent than elsewhere in the gardens. While most guests are entirely happy here, if you are noise-sensitive, you may like to explore availability in another accommodation.
MASTER BEDROOM
With en-suite shower room, air-conditioning, and the option of king or twin beds
SECOND BEDROOM
With en-suite shower room, air-conditioning, and the option of king or twin beds
French doors look through the living area to the ocean beyond
OPEN-PLAN LIVING SPACE
With fully equipped kitchen, along with two luxurious rattan sofas, contemporary coffee table, double hammock, and round glass-topped dining table and chairs
SHARED GARDEN TERRACE
Located above the apartment, with views to the ocean, it includes four sun loungers and two beach chairs.
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito net
Double hammock
Security safe
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Bamboo bird feeder
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
Coffee Maker
(2 Bedrooms/2 people in each) Double Occupancy: $1865 pp
Early bird discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021 : $1765 pp
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Shady Mango
VIEWS THROUGH THE FOLIAGE
With views to the Caribbean Sea through the foliage of a fabulous mango tree, this one-bedroom hideaway offers contemporary living, infused with the essence of the tropics. The spacious open-plan living area and kitchen leads through French doors to the large en-suite air-conditioned bedroom.
SHARED TERRACES
To the rear of the apartment in the surrounding tropical gardens is a spacious terrace, shared with Coco Palm, with sun loungers and beach chairs that the perfect place for bird watching or for taking a siesta in the shade of the golden apple tree. A second, communal terrace is also just a short walk away.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Shady Mango is one of our apartments closest to the village. As a consequence, the sounds of Castara are more prominent than elsewhere in the gardens. While most guests are entirely happy here, if you are noise-sensitive, you may like to explore availability in another accommodation.
ONE BEDROOM
With en-suite shower room, air conditioning and option of king size bed or twin beds
OPEN-PLAN LIVING SPACE
With fully equipped kitchen along with rattan sofas, coffee table, dining table and caneline chairs
TWO SHARED TERRACES
The first terrace is located behind the apartment with two sun loungers and two beach chairs. It is great for dappled sunshine, shade and birdwatching. This terrace is shared with Coco Palm. For guests wanting to sunbathe, the second terrace is just a short walk away and is shared with all guests at Castara Retreats. It includes four sun loungers and
two beach chairs and has views of the ocean.
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito net
Double hammock
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Security safe
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
Bamboo bird feeder
Coffee Maker
Double Occupancy: $1865 pp
Early bird discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $1765 pp
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Coco Palm
VIEWS THROUGH THE FOLIAGE
With views to the Caribbean Sea through the foliage of a fabulous mango tree, Coco Palm offers contemporary living and blends elegant interiors with natural elements. The spacious open-plan living and kitchen area leads through French doors to the large en-suite air-conditioned bedroom.
SHADY TERRACE
Coco Palm has a small outdoor terrace with bistro table offering space for al-fresco dining, taking in the views across the village to the Bay. To the rear is a terrace, shared with Shady Mango, with sun loungers and beach chairs, perfect for bird watching or for taking a siesta in the shade of the golden apple tree above.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Coco Palm is one of the apartments closest to the village. As a consequence, the sounds of Castara are more prominent than elsewhere in the gardens. While most guests are entirely happy here, if you are noise-sensitive, you may like to explore availability in another accommodation.
ONE BEDROOM
With en-suite shower room, air conditioning and option of king size bed or twin beds
OPEN-PLAN LIVING SPACE
With fully equipped kitchen along with rattan sofas, coffee table, dining table and caneline chairs
SMALL BALCONY TERRACE
Looking across the village towards the bay, bistro table and built-in seating
TWO SHARED TERRACES
The first terrace is located behind the apartment with two sun loungers and two beach chairs. It is great for dappled sunshine, shade and birdwatching. This terrace is shared with Shady Mango. For guests wanting to sunbathe, the second terrace is just a short walk away and is shared with all guests at Castara Retreats. It includes four sun loungers and two beach chairs and has views to the ocean.
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito net
Double hammock
Security safe
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Bamboo bird feeder
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
Coffee Maker
Double Occupancy: $1865 pp
Early bird discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $1765 pp
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Fiddle Tree
OPEN PLAN LIVING
With views to the Caribbean ocean through the foliage of a great mango tree, this hideaway offers contemporary living, infused with the essence of the tropics. The spacious open-plan living area and kitchen leads through French doors to the large bedroom with air-conditioning and en-suite shower room.
SPACIOUS TERRACES
Two private open-to-the stars terraces with views East to the village, and west to the beach and Bay, offer ample space for soaking up the sunshine, and romantic al fresco dining. The double hammock slung from the branches of the old fille tree is the popular spot for an afternoon of relaxation.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Fiddle Tree is one of the apartments closest to the beach and village. As a consequence, the sounds of Castara are more prominent than elsewhere in our gardens. While most guests are entirely happy here, if you are noise-sensitive, you may like to explore availability in another accommodation.
ONE BEDROOM
With en-suite shower room, air conditioning, and the option of king or twin beds
LARGE OUTSIDE TERRACE
Looking across the village towards the bay, furnished with sun loungers, beach chairs, and bistro dining table
OPEN-PLAN LIVING SPACE
With fully equipped kitchen along with rattan sofas, coffee table, dining table and caneline chairs
Double hammock
Docking station, hair dryer and iron
Security Safe
Complimentary wi-fi service
Bamboo bird feeder
Coffee Maker
Double Occupancy: $1865 pp
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $1765 pp
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If you are wishing to have a truly secluded accommodation, there are two options:
Firefly and Tamarind
Firefly
STUDIO APARTMENT
The rooms includes queen size bed with en-suite shower room and air-conditioning
Beyond is the seating area with small sofa, coffee table, and bistro dining table and chairs
KITCHENETTE
On the other side of the room is the compact kitchen area which includes two electric hobs, small fridge, toaster, kettle, sinks, pans, and crockery.
The kitchen in Firefly is more basic than in the other accommodations. It does not have an oven and is designed for preparing simple meals
OUTSIDE TERRACE
Located outside the front door is the garden terrace with ocean views, furnished with two beach chairs
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito net
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Security safe
Bamboo bird feeder
Coffee Maker
Single Occupancy: $2095
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $1995
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Tamarind
Tamarind is a compact one-bedroom hideaway with en-suite bedroom, and open living space. Constructed largely of gorgeous red cedar which covers much of the ceiling and floor, this apartment has a warm and welcoming feel; the ideal space to relax and unwind.
OCEAN AND SUNSET VIEWS
Tamarind is perfect for guests seeking a modestly priced option within the atmosphere and facilities at Castara Retreats. The open-plan living space faces west and is perfect for watching the setting sun, and for views both down the coast and out to sea.
PRIVACY AND SECLUSION
Hidden away below Birdsong , this studio apartment has an excellent sense of privacy and seclusion, and is not overlooked by any other accommodation. The driveway to Castara Retreats is located just below, and offers the quickest way to the beach.
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito net
Double hammock
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Security safe
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
Bamboo bird feeder
Coffee Maker
Single Occupancy: $2185
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $2085
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Ginger Lily
CONTEMPORARY LIVING
Named after the gorgeous red ginger lilies which flower year round in the gardens, this is an elegantly furnished two-bedroom lodge, with views to the ocean and sunset. Surrounded by banana, lime and star-fruit trees, Ginger Lily offers contemporary living, infused with the essence of the tropics.
ALL-WOODEN CONSTRUCTION
In this all-wooden lodge, relaxation comes easy in the large hammock, soaking up the sunset spectacles, or lounging on the comfy rattan sofa. A spacious, partially covered outdoor terrace offers dining for up to four. Ginger Lily is perfect for families or two couples seeking an open living accommodation experience.
AFFORDABLE LUXURY
Although Ginger Lily is more compact than our other two-bedroom options and does not have the complete sense of seclusion enjoyed by some of our other choices, quality is not compromised and the lodge therefore offers good value for anyone requiring a second bedroom for their stay.
With en-suite shower room, air-conditioning, and queen size bed
COMPACT SECOND BEDROOM (10X10 FEET)
With en-suite shower room, air-conditioning, and queen size bed. This room does not have ocean views, instead the window looks onto the living area and beyond to the garden
OPEN-PLAN LIVING SPACE
With fully equipped kitchen along with rattan sofa and chair, glass coffee table, and double hammock
OUTSIDE TERRACE
With round dining table and two beach chairs
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito nets
Double hammock
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Security safe
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
Bamboo bird feeder
Double Occupancy: $2020 pp
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $1920 pp
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Rainforest
SPECTACULAR VIEWS
One of Castara’s original accommodations, Rainforest truly showcases the ‘living in the landscape’ concept. Upon entering you are immediately met with the spectacular views of ocean, beach and rainforest. The hammock – perfectly placed to soak up the panorama- is a favored spot of many!
CONNECT WITH NATURE
With two bedrooms and and two bathrooms, Rainforest is an idyllic spot for families, or two couples. A harmonious blend of natural elements and elegant aesthetics makes this apartment an ideal choice for relaxing and connecting with nature.
ALL-WOODEN, HAND-CRAFTED
Hand-crafted from local hardwoods, the open-plan layout with gorgeous cypress flooring and cathedral-like vaulted ceiling provides ample space for cooking, dining and relaxing. Outside in the garden is the spacious garden terrace –the perfect spot for al fresco dining.
RAINFOREST FEATURES
- MASTER BEDROOM
With queen size bed and air-conditioning - SECOND BEDROOM
With queen size bed and air-conditioning - TWO ENSUITE SHOWER ROOMS
With mirror and discreet spotlights - OPEN-PLAN LIVING SPACE
With rattan sofa and coffee table, double hammock, and dining area - Fully-equipped kitchen made from locally sourced hardwood built by local craftsmen
- OUTSIDE GARDEN TERRACE
Located to the side of the apartment, furnished with two sun loungers, two beach chairs and small table
- Stand-alone ventilator fans
- High-quality mosquito net
- Double hammock
- iPod docking station, Hair dryer & iron
- Security safe
- Complimentary Wi-Fi service
- Bamboo bird feeder
- Coffee Maker
Double Occupancy: $2300 pp
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $2200 pp
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If you are wishing to upgrade your stay, there are various options, with the premier one bedroom lodges being Beachscape and Coasthanger. If you are interested in seeing others, not listed here, please check the Castara website and talk to Sabré about your inquiry.
Beachscape
It is the breath-taking views to Castara Bay which sets this hideaway apart. With the beach just a stone’s throw away, watch the fishermen haul in their nets, the pelicans diving for fish, and sun setting beyond the horizon. Delight in views to the sky and stars from the terrace, or stretching out on the comfortable sofas.
There is a fabulous sense of seclusion in Beachscape, offering the perfect space to rest and recharge. The surrounding environment is uniquely incorporated into Beachscape’s design, as the high pitched roof over the spacious open-living area creates a fabulous sense of openness to nature.
One bedroom with queen sized bed and ensuite bathroom.
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito net
Double hammock
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Security safe
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
Bamboo bird feeder
Coffee Maker
Single Occupancy: $3140
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1. 2021: $3040
Double Occupancy: $2165 pp
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $2065 pp
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Coasthanger
CELEBRATING THE PANORAMA
Perched on the hillside and surrounded by tropical gardens, Coasthanger?s gorgeous hand-crafted, architecture celebrates the sweeping panoramic view both up the coast towards the sunset and below to the Bay of Castara. With 800 square feet of open living space, Coasthanger is perfect for anyone seeking elegant comfort and simplicity in nature.
RELAXATION COMES EASY
With floors, walls and vaulted ceiling all hand-crafted from local hardwoods, and beautifully styled interiors, Coasthanger is an idyllic space to relax and rejuvenate. The bedroom with vaulted ceiling includes French doors leading to a private outside terrace with stunning views- perfect for soaking up the sunshine and for romantic al-fresco dining.
INSPIRED BY THE HAIKU HOUSE
Inspired by the Japanese Haiku House, known for their inherent grace, simplicity and harmony, Coasthanger inspires a fabulous sense of openness and connection to the sights and sounds in the tropical gardens. The lodge sits gently on the land, and allows natural breezes to flow through wooden louvres.
One bedroom with queen sized bed and ensuite bathroom.
Stand-alone ventilator fans
High-quality mosquito net
Double hammock
iPod docking station, hair dryer & iron
Security safe
Complimentary Wi-Fi service
Bamboo bird feeder
Coffee Maker
Single Occupancy: $3295
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $3195
Double Occupancy: $2240 pp
Early Bird Discount if paid in full by September 1, 2021: $2140 pp
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Payments:
Deposits are due at time of booking and are non-refundable.*** This will hold your space and your choice of accommodation, on a first come, first serve basis.
***If there are unforeseen circumstances which cause the cancellation of the retreat, you’ll be refunded all monies, including deposit, less $25 processing fee.***
Deposits for double occupancy are $350 per person.
Deposits for single occupancy are $450 per person.
All Early Bird Payments are due in full no later than September 1, 2021
All regular payments are due in full by December 15, 2021
Any bookings made on January 1, 2022 or thereafter, are due in full at time of booking.
Payments may be made by check and mailed to:
Sabré Page 4500 Seneca Street UNIT 3 Fort Collins, CO 80526
Payments also accepted via Venmo @Sabre-Page
PayPal (Sabre Page)
And by bank transfer. Please let Sabré know which option you choose.
Payment Plans are also accepted on a person-by-person basis. Let Sabré know what works for you.
Cancellations:
Cancellations made on or before December 15, 2021, receive full refund less deposit.
Cancellations made on or before February 1, 2022, receive 75% refund less deposit.
Cancellations made after February 1 and before April 1, 2022 receive 50% refund less deposit.
Cancellations made on or after April 1 receive no refund.
Excursions
1. All-day boat trip with Sun Arise Tours
This trip runs from 10am – 4pm and is a fabulous day out. You get to see Tobago’s stunning coastline,whilst line fishing, snorkelling in calm coves, and if fortune finds you, along the way you may meet a pod of dolphins. The boat will reach Paradise Bay with its secluded sandy beach which can only beaccessed via the ocean. Here you’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ with a range of local dishes. All food and drink (including beers and rum punch) provided for the day.
Cost of trip: $600tt per person (approximately $90 USD)
Service Provider: Derek Lopez (a.k.a Porridge, Castara Retreats Manager)
Length of trip: 10am – 4pm, departure from Castara beach
2. Rainforest Walk and Birdwatching
Tobago’s stunning rainforest reserve encompasses fairy-tale forest that springs from Tobago’s spine. It feels a world away from Castara’s sandy beach. A guided walk through the rainforest can be a magical experience. Tobago has one of the highest densities of bird species in the world with some 220 varieties to be spotted, and whether you’re a seasoned twitcher or have never picked up somebinoculars before, observing the birds in their natural habitats around Castara is an absolute pleasure. This trip is coordinated by Newton George, recognised as one of the top ornithologist guides in the Caribbean. A trip out with him or one of his team is hugely memorable.
Cost of trip: $65 USD (reduced rates for groups of 10+)
Service Provider: Newton George or one of his team
Length of trip: Approximately 5 hours. Departure at 7am from Castara Retreats
3. Being With Horses
This German/Tobago-run stable is a wonderful alternative to staid trail rides. A non-profit outfit, it takes a holistic approach to looking after its herd of rescued mounts. Ridden with foam saddles andbitless bridles, the horses take you into Buccoo’s coastal woodland before emerging on the sand and swimming you through the calm waters of the bay.
Website: http://being-with-horses.com/
Maximum per group: 6 people
Price: $100 USD plus cost of taxi (45-60 mins) to the location ($600tt return for up to 4 people) Service provider: Veronika and Lennon run Being with Horses
Trip length: Approx 4-5 hours including travel (rides start at either 9am or 3pm)
4. Bioluminescence Stand Up Paddle Boarding/ Kayaking
Take a starlit night time tour of the lagoon with bioluminescent waters. Glowing Plankton in the ocean is one of the most unique things you will ever see. Jump in and watch the waters alight, leaving a glowing trail in your wake like magic!
Website: http://www.standuppaddletobago.com/
Price: $60 USD plus cost of taxi (45-60 mins) to the location ($600tt return for up to 4 people) Service Provider: Duane at Stand Up Paddle Tobago
Trip length: Approx. 5 hours, including travel (4:30 – 9:30pm)
5. Walk to Castara Waterfall (this we will likely do as a group but you can go on your own as well)
Castara is backed by the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, and a safe and easy way to independently explore it is by following the village’s stream leading you into the deep green of rainforest. You?ll soon reach the Castara waterfall that cascades into a freshwater rock pool that will beckon you in for a dip. It’s a magical spot, and being off the beaten track for visitors to the island,you’ll often have the waterfall to yourself. Groups visiting previously have been enchanted by their walk to the waterfall. As this is an independent walk and there is no charge.
More
There are other options for “things to do” which include but are not limited to snorkeling (there is equipment for rent but not always available, so it’s recommended that you bring your own if this is huge on your “to do” list), scuba diving, an island tour (I, Sabré, would love to do this as a group if we have enough interest), a tour of the Cocoa Plantation, and various spa treatments.
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A few things to think about:
~If you would like to come early or stay after the retreat ends, Castara will offer a special discount of 20% off their regular rates for May.
~Castara Resort and FJYR recommend that you obtain travel insurance, as soon as you book your flight, so that you are covered in the event of cancellation, illness, accidents, or loss of belongings and valuables.
~Transportation to Tobago:
Castara Resort recommends Simply Tobago’s page for information on flights to Tobago:
www.simplytobago.co.uk/getting-to-and-around-tobago/2016-flights-to-tobago/
If traveling from Trinidad, they strongly advise you book the transfer as soon as possible, as sometimes ferries and flights can become booked up for days at a time.
They recommend the Air Bridge flight which is a quicker alternative to the ferry – “only 24 miles, 24 minutes and $24” each way. Tickets can be booked through Caribbean Airlines who fly over 10 times per day.
To book your ticket, please visit: www.caribbean-airlines.com
For the list of official agents who sell ferry tickets, please visit: www.ttitferry.com
~Transportation to and from the Tobago airport are included in your package. I’ll be providing many more details as we get closer to the retreat date and everyone knows their flight schedule.
~Please check out Castara’s lovely website for more information. I especially encourage the ‘What to Expect’ page, which answers many FAQ’s. Also notable is their story on Sustainability. I love their “ethos.” You can see it all at castararetreats.com
~The currency in Tobago is TTD (or just tt) for ‘Trinidad and Tobago dollars’. $1 TTD is approximately $0.15 USD as of this writing. I encourage you to exchange your dollars for TTD at your bank before you leave home, if you decide to exchange, because the ATM is 45 minutes away from Castara. However, U.S. Dollars are widely used throughout Tobago.
~Castara and Freedom Journey Yoga Retreats will not be responsible in the case of lack of water and or power supply, gas or other unforeseen events beyond Castara Retreat’s control.
~Mosquitoes, lizards, ants and other insects are endemic residents. They are attracted by human presence and might be found in Castara Retreats. This is considered normal and the presence of any quantity of bugs in the outdoor areas shall not give rise to any liability of Castara Retreats. (I recommend bug spray for your person).
~Castara Retreats has locks but each visitor is responsible for ensuring the security of his/her belongings.
~About tipping, here’s what I’ve been told: There is not a particularly strong tipping culture in Tobago as in other parts of the world, and there is no expectation to tip for things like a taxi service, or excursions, like Paddleboarding. There isn’t an expectation for it, though it would always be welcomed if you wanted to offer something.
~As we approach the months before the retreat date, I’ll be providing more detailed information to help create ease in your traveling and retreat experience!
Please check out the lovely Castara website by clicking here