Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re considering The Algarve Experience with us, we know that you are making a large investment, not just with your time or financially but emotionally too. We thought we would answer all of the questions that we’ve gotten in the past in hopes that we can clear up anything that’s holding you back from joining us. If you have specific questions that aren't answered here, please don't hesitate to contact us: ajaexperience@gmail.com

What is included in the retreat package?

6 night accommodation at a 5 star hotel - Tivoli Carvoeiro
Welcome cocktail & welcome gift
Daily gourmet breakfast
Daily morning yoga classes instructed by Lindsay
Guided hikes led by Chris
Catamaran cruise includes lunch
Daily optional excursions (transportation is included, price of the excursion is not, excursions will cost between $40-$100 per person) - Kayak or boat to the grottos and caves, surf lessons, stand up paddle boarding, cultural wine and food tour, professional photoshoot etc
Nightly social events (you are responsible for the cost of your food and drinks)

Is airfare included in the retreat package?

No, Airfare is not included in the retreat price

Do I need to pay the full price when I reserve my spot?

No, we only require a $500 deposit upon registration. The remaining amount will be collected by 2/1/2025

Do you have payment plans?

We do not offer them on our website, but we have worked with multiple guests in the past. If money and payment are the only things preventing you from signing up, please email us, we can find a solution for you

I’m traveling by myself, are most other people in groups or by themselves too?

Yes, most of our participants are solo travelers, we usually have some friends and couples join too. We can match you with a roommate if you want to share a room and save money.

Can I come early or stay longer than the retreat length?

Absolutely but you will be responsible for yourself and your expenses. We cannot provide lodging, meals or transportation outside of the retreat start and end times.

How many guests do you expect to attend the retreat?

That is dependent on how many people plan to share a room vs a private room. We expect 15-25 participants

Do I have to do everything listed on the itinerary?

No, the agenda provides optional activities. Yoga, hiking, social activities and excursions are all available to you and included in the cost of the retreat but are not mandatory! This retreat is for you. Choose your own adventure. Only participate in the activities that suit you.

Do I have to do yoga? OR What if I’ve never done yoga?

The answer to any question starting with “do I have to” is always NO! We always encourage guests to choose their own adventure because we want them to look at the retreat schedule as suggestions of activities that they can participate in. The daily morning yoga classes are "all levels" no experience necessary.

Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?

If you plan to participate in the yoga classes, we highly recommend bringing your own mat or purchasing an "easy to pack" travel yoga mat. The resort has limited supply of mats for us to use.

Can you accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions or preferences?

Absolutely! Tell us what they are, and we will make sure that you are accommodated.

What if I have an injury or disability?

We are committed to making each guest feel comfortable and safe. We have a section on the registration form for you to share any injuries or concerns. If you prefer to discuss in detail, please email us to create a plan to address your individual needs!

How strenuous will the hiking excursions be?

We always scout the trails before we take retreat guests on them and we always discuss in detail what to expect for time, difficulty level, etc. so that you can decide if you want to participate. Most hikes are easy or moderate and take between 1-3 hours.

What will the weather be like in the Algarve in late May?

Late May in the Algarve typically marks the beginning of the summer season. The weather is usually quite pleasant during this time, with warm temperatures and relatively mild evenings. On average, you can expect daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s degrees Celsius (mid-70s to mid-80s degrees Fahrenheit). Rainfall is generally low in late May, and you can anticipate mostly dry and sunny days.

How do I get there?

Faro Airport (Aeroporto de Faro) is the primary international airport serving the region. It is well-connected to various European cities and can be a convenient entry point to the Algarve.

Faro airport is approximately 40 minutes from the Tivoli Carvoeiro Resort.

Side note: Ubers are very reasonably priced Portugal, much cheaper than the states!

You can also fly to Lisbon. If you fly into Lisbon, you have a few options to get to the resort:

Driving: You can rent a car and drive from Lisbon to the Algarve. We did this in May 2023 and were amazed at how easy it was. There wasn't any traffic once we departed Lisbon and the drive was easy to navigate and super smooth. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Shuttle or Private Transfer: Many companies offer shuttle services or private transfers between Lisbon and the Algarve. These services provide convenient door-to-door transportation and can be a comfortable option if you prefer not to drive. They are particularly useful if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Train: You can take a high speed train from Lisbon to Faro for around $60. From there you can uber to the resort or take a regional train to Portimao, the neighboring town and uber from there.

Is the Algarve Expensive?

No! We visited in May 2023 & May 2024 and found it to be overall very reasonable.

To put it in perspective, a fancy meal at a high-end restaurant including 2 appetizers, 2 entrees, 2 desserts and 2 bottles of wine cost us 120 euro. Which is approximately $131 USD. The food was so fresh and delicious.

And that was high end! In the states, a meal like that would cost between $300-$400. We were blown away by the quality and the price. If you don't want to go high-end, You can easily get a tasty and satisfying lunch or dinner for 10-15 euro and a good quality bottle of local wine for 5-15 euro.

Ubers were typically around $5 USD to get from town to town within the Algarve. They also were readily available and arrived so fast.

Cancellation Policy/Terms & Conditions

All retreat participants must be 21 years of age or older.
Liability: by registering
Cancellation Policy:

Your deposit reserves your room and space in the retreat. Deposits are non- refundable. Remaining balance due February 1, 2025

Cancellations made prior to February 1, 2025 are refundable minus the deposit. Cancellations made after February 1, 2025 are non-refundable.

Still on the fence?

Let’s Connect to better understand how we can assist you! ajaexperience@gmail.com