The Haven

This place is under new ownership, and runs recovery programs for addiction. While there is nothing wrong with this, it just means this is not the yoga retreat center that is advertised and what I expected. There is a large male presence at the center, which can feel unsettling at times. There is no alcohol allowed on premises (too bad if you are on vacation and want to to relax with a glass of wine or cocktail at the end of the day). The food is atrocious. Hot dogs, burgers and deli meat sandwiches. Seriously?? Again, not the wholesome food you would expect at a yoga retreat, and not worth the $80 they are charging per day for meals. Total rip off. Not sure what the deal is with a new "chef" because anyone could cook better meals. The same salads every day too. So, don't expect anything gourmet food-wise. In fact, save your money and go eat elsewhere. The "chefs" also get offended if you ask for anything and one time they started cleaning up dinner at 6:15 even though it's supposed to run until 6:30.

There is also no daily housekeeping. Which is fine. But worth it to know, so you don't have high expectations. The bathroom sink kept making a weird gurgling sound so I had to sleep with ear plugs.

The staff at the front desk is very nice though.

My experience felt like the whole center caters to the recovery programs. It's fine to run a recovery center, but it's just not compatible with a yoga retreat - where people expect to relax, unwind, have good wholesome food and maybe a nice glass of wine at sunset. Having both in the same location doesn't work. Disappointing and not worth the money. I will not be returning

Experiential, universal, revelational about relational and self knowledge. Skilled experienced facilitators. Both times I’ve gone it has left me with deep connections in a short time and I continue to stay I. Touch with those co-participants. Food is hearty, delicious, and plentiful. Grounds are peaceful. I look forward to my next course and my next reunion with newfound friends.

Our 15 year old son just completed Teens Alive (1-3) for the second time, and loved it. The environment is so nurturing and transformative - I really can't say enough about how grateful I am to have this program as a support during these years when parenting can be TOUGH. Our son is navigating high school with confidence, and making mature and thoughtful decisions - we definitely see him process his experiences in a new way and love what we are seeing. His communication with us is more open and productive, and we look forward to him navigating the rest of his teen years with his hands on the reigns. He is looking forward to next year's program and has plans to become an intern in the future as well.

The Haven is beautifully set on the waterfront on Gabriola Island. I wasn't sure what to expect at this workshop. I was hoping I would find more confidence in using my voice as I have been confident in speaking in public but deathly afraid of singing in public! What I found was a very safe space to explore making all kinds of sound from humming and babble to overtone chanting and yes...singing. Leah was an excellent and gentle guide and the acoustics of our meeting space were amazing. I would recommend The Haven for anyone wanting to get away from their regular routine and explore their inner world. I will go back for more!

A wonderful opportunity to meet like minded people and to participate in goal setting activities for The |haven and for myself.