Question 1

How do I secure my place?

Accepted Answer

Complete the booking form and pay your USD $400 per person deposit. Your place is held for a short time while you pay, and is confirmed once your deposit has been verified. The group is capped at 20 guests; when it is full, you can join the waitlist.

Question 2

When do bookings close?

Accepted Answer

Standard online bookings close at 11:59 pm Brisbane time (AEST) on 15 February 2027, or earlier if all 20 places are filled. After that you can join the waitlist or enquire about availability; late bookings need Mal's approval and depend on accommodation and supplier availability. If you book after a payment date, those earlier payments are due at booking. If you book from 11 January 2027, the standard cancellation deadline has already passed — please read the Cancellation & Refund Policy first.

Question 3

Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

Accepted Answer

Transfers can be requested on or before 15 February 2027 and need our written approval, a compatible room arrangement and acceptance of the booking terms by the new guest. Any genuine airline or hotel name-change charges apply. After 15 February 2027 transfers aren't guaranteed, because domestic flights are expected to be booked after that date.

Question 4

What currency are prices in?

Accepted Answer

All prices are per person in US dollars (USD), and every payment is made in USD. You can switch the website to AUD, GBP or EUR to see estimated amounts, but those are a guide only.

Question 5

Can I pay in instalments?

Accepted Answer

Every guest follows the same plan: a USD $400 deposit at booking, then the remaining balance in three payments due 10 December 2026, 10 January 2027 and 10 March 2027. You can pay early or in full at any time.

Question 6

Are flights included?

Accepted Answer

International flights are not included. The domestic flight between Malé and Laamu Atoll is included. Domestic flight schedules and transfers will be confirmed closer to departure.

Question 7

When should I book my flights?

Accepted Answer

We recommend waiting until the retreat has been officially confirmed before purchasing non-refundable international flights. The retreat needs a minimum of 10 paying guests, and the decision is made by 15 January 2027.

Question 8

Where will we be staying?

Accepted Answer

We'll spend five nights at Nazaki Beach Hotel, a beachfront property on Gan Island in Laamu Atoll, followed by three nights at Arena Beach Hotel, a beachfront property on Maafushi Island in Kaafu Atoll. Visit our Accommodation page for more details and photos.

Question 9

Who will I share with?

Accepted Answer

You can share with someone you're travelling with, or we can match you with another guest of the same gender. Matching is subject to availability and suitable pairing.

Question 10

Will I feel out of place travelling alone?

Accepted Answer

No. Most guests arrive not knowing anyone. There's a group chat before departure, a welcome dinner on arrival and a host whose job is making sure nobody is left standing on their own.

Question 11

Do I need to be fit?

Accepted Answer

No. This is not a bootcamp. Movement sessions are optional and scaled — walk, swim, stretch, dance or sit it out with a coconut.

Question 12

Can you cater for dietary needs?

Accepted Answer

In most cases yes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergy requirements can usually be arranged with notice. Tell us on the booking form.

Question 13

What if I'm not a strong swimmer?

Accepted Answer

You'll still get in the water. Floatation vests, noodles and in-water guides are available, and you can stay in shallow areas. Tell us your comfort level on the booking form.

Question 14

Is travel insurance required?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All guests are required to arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of the retreat. Travel insurance is not included in the retreat price.

Question 15

Do I need a visa for the Maldives?

Accepted Answer

Most nationalities receive a free visa on arrival with a valid passport, onward ticket and accommodation confirmation. Always check the current rules for your passport.

Question 16

What's the weather like in May?

Accepted Answer

Typically warm and bright with sea temperatures in the high 20s Celsius. Tropical showers are always possible and conditions can change quickly at sea.

Question 17

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Light clothing, swimwear, a cover-up for local islands, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sandals and anything you like to move in. A full packing list is sent after booking.

Question 18

How are excursions managed?

Accepted Answer

All ocean activities run with local licensed operators and guides. Activities may be changed or cancelled for safety when conditions require it.

Question 19

What if I need to cancel?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations must be made in writing. The USD $400 deposit is non-refundable for a voluntary cancellation. If you cancel on or before 10 January 2027, other payments made may be refunded; from 11 January 2027 there is no standard refund. Your rights under Australian Consumer Law are not affected. See the Cancellation & Refund Policy for full details. Travel insurance is required.

Question 20

Will I have signal?

Accepted Answer

Yes — WiFi is available at both properties and local SIM cards are easy to buy in Malé. Coverage on boats and sandbanks is limited, which is part of the point.

Question 21

What money should I bring?

Accepted Answer

US dollars are widely accepted and cards work in most places. Bring some cash for small local purchases.

Question 22

Can I drink alcohol?

Accepted Answer

The Maldives is a Muslim country and alcohol is not sold on local islands. Options are limited to licensed venues; we'll explain what's available.

Question 23

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Swimwear is fine on designated tourist beaches and boats. In villages, shoulders and knees covered is respectful. Mal will guide you — it's easy once you know.

Question 24

Will someone meet me at the airport?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You'll be met at Velana International Airport in Malé and looked after from there.

Everything you want to ask before you commit.

Booking & Payments

Payment Plans

Flights

Accommodation

Room Sharing

Solo Travellers

Fitness Level

Food & Dietary Requirements

Snorkelling & Swimming Ability

Travel Insurance

Visas / Entry Requirements

Weather

What to Pack

Health & Safety

Cancellations

Internet / WiFi

Currency

Alcohol

Dress / Local Culture

Arrival & Airport Transfers

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