Escape & Elevate
Luxury Yoga Retreat
Culion, Philippines
February 12-19, 2025
Explore outside the box of your typical vacation with Whole Image Wellness on this luxury 8-day, 7-night yoga retreat to the Philippines!
Our Yoga & Ayurveda wellness program is thoughtfully crafted to offer you an elevated blend of both dynamic + gentle yoga sessions; cultural experiences; exploration of the natural environment; rejuvenating relaxation; and plenty of play! Alongside daily yoga classes, expect an Ayurvedic workshop and cooking demonstration, guided meditations, exploration of neighboring islands, and the opportunity for self-indulgence on the schedule.
Nestled in the clear blue waters of Culion Island is Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort
(SETIR), a destination where freedom begins: the freedom to explore, create new
memories and reconnect with oneself and loved ones. SETIR is a 44-acre luxury
resort, where you find natural beauty, marine biodiversity, world class dining and
exceptional Filipino hospitality.
The Retreat
We pride ourselves on offering affordable yoga retreats for the discerning traveler, and this time is no different! Though our destination is luxury at its finest, we have worked tirelessly to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience at a competitive price.
We know that this trip is not for everyone. The shortest plane ride is still 24 hours away. We are escaping to an island nation (well, actually there are more than 7,000 islands in the archipelago!) surrounded by the beautiful azure waters of the Philippine Sea, South China Sea, and the South Pacific.
As such, this is our longest retreat to date. There will be plenty of time to recover from jet lag at our private island resort, and just as much opportunity to elevate your mind-body-spirit on the days in between.
Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort
SETIR’s Maldives-inspired villas are architecturally designed to have an ocean view of either sunrise or sunset. Each is finely appointed with Filipino-themed interior, expansive balconies that capture the ocean’s lavish beauty, and spacious private homes that come equipped with all the amenities one needs for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of marine life while relaxing in the comfort of your room. Our rooms offer a truly unique and immersive experience, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
SETIR staff are dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences while also being mindful of their impact on the environment. With sustainability at their core, they strive to minimize their carbon footprint by incorporating eco-friendly practices in their daily operations. They are also dedicated to providing the best service to our guests.
What to Expect
Each day your retreat leader, Angelique, will lead you in a yoga class designed to be complimentary to the day's activities and your skill level. From sunrise salutations to moonlit meditations, each moment is an opportunity to rediscover balance and embrace a holistic sense of well-being.
Join us in Culion, where the ebb and flow of the tides echo the rhythm of your breath, and where the exploration of self seamlessly intertwines with the exploration of this island paradise.
A 3-hour Ayurvedic workshop and cooking demonstration will introduce you to the beauty of this time-honored practice.
Visiting the Philippines in February is in the middle of the dry season. Expect temperatures of between 75°F and 88°F (23°C and 31°C) in most places. With little rain, humidity is also low in February. The risk of typhoons has generally disappeared.
A packing list will be provided prior to travel.
Freedom to Indulge
The resort offers a diverse and impressive array of dining options that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a fine dining experience, a casual bite by the pool, or a delicious international dish, you'll find it all at SETIR. With so many options to choose from, you'll never tire of the dining experiences available.
With your retreat cost, all breakfasts are included, as well as one lunch and five dinners. We've purposely left two nights open for you to explore on your own, perhaps for a romantic dinner or a night out with new friends.
Activities
We have arranged for a guided 4-hour, four island boat tour of surrounding islands with lunch and optional snorkeling.
You will also enjoy (1) 60-minute massage as part of your package.
In your down time, enjoy use of resort amenities and facilities, like the beach and beach loungers,
swimming pool and pool loungers, non-motorized sports such as kayaks and snorkeling gear, and gym access, or bicycle around the island.
You can also rent Jet Skis or clear kayaks, go for a Banana Boat ride or Aquajet Dive, check out the Glass Bottom Boat, or meet with one of two Ayurvedic Practitioners for a personal consultation at an additional charge.
Trip Highlights
● 8-day, 7-nights accommodations in over-water luxury villas
● Daily Breakfast
● 5 dinners & 1 lunch
● 8 (or more) yoga classes
● 1 Ayurveda workshop
● 4-hour Island Hopping Tour
● Round Trip Transfers from Busuanga Airport to the resort (Land & Boat)
● Complimentary use of the guest airport lounge at Busuanga Airport
● Welcome drink & Cold towel upon arrival
● Swag Bag
● 60-minute massage at the spa
● Daily complimentary bottled water inside the room
● In-room coffee and tea making facilities
● Free High-Speed Internet
● Swimming pool and beach access
● Use of resort amenities and facilities, like the beach and beach loungers,
swimming pool and pool loungers, non-motorized sports such as kayaks and
snorkeling gear, and gym access
● Free use of bicycles
● Yoga mats (depends on number of availability)
● Chauffeured buggy cart ride service around the island
● 24-hour medic and nurse available
● 24-hour front desk/reception staff available
● Round the clock security personnel
Not Included:
● Airfare
● Transportation from your home to the airport, or from Manila to Busuanga
● Travel Insurance (REQUIRED)
● Jet Ski, Banana Boat, Aquajet Dive, Clear Kayak rental, or Glass Bottom Boat rides
● Alcoholic beverages or specialty drinks
● Gratuity
● Personal Ayurvedic and/or Reiki consultations with Angelique or Maria
Investment
Total Cost depends on room type. Please see the chart & options below. All prices are PER PERSON.
Reserve your spot with a $300 nonrefundable deposit. Your deposit is applied towards your total retreat rate.
Your balance will be due in four equal payments, via invoice. Invoices are due within one week of receipt. Invoices will be sent on the 15th of the following months: March, June, September, and December, 2024. If you need a different payment plan, please contact Angelique at angelique@wholeimagewellness.com.
PROMOTIONAL RATES
Pay in Full Discount: Take $200 off of any standard rate when you pay in full. Contact Angelique to redeem this discount angelique@wholeimagewellness.com
Limited Space Available! Send any questions to Angelique at angelique@wholeimagewellness.com
Note: Your reservation is not confirmed until you complete our travel contract. This will be emailed to you after your reservation is received and can be signed online. A copy of the contract is linked to the registration form.
Cluster Villa
Single or Double Options Available
474 sq.ft.
2 guests
1 bedroom
1 queen bed or 2 Single Beds
Shared ocean view balcony
Bath amenities
Hair dryer
Electronic key card
Safety deposit box
Air-conditioning
Interactive TV
Bluetooth speakers
Coffee and tea making facilities
Daily bottled water
Wi-fi access
Refrigerator
Cluster Single
Standard Price (after 3/15)= $4195/person
Paid in Full Price = $3995/person
Cluster Double
Standard Price (after 3/15)= $3695/person
Paid in Full Price = $3495/person
If you are traveling alone we will pair you with another traveler of the same gender in an appropriate room. We never ask guests to share beds with strangers!
Duplex Villa
Function meets style at the Duplex Villa. A 90-sqm water villa with two rooms that connect through an expansive balcony offering mountain and ocean views.
969 sq.ft.
3-4 guests
2 bedrooms 1 queen bed & 2 single beds Private ocean-view balcony
Bath amenities
Hair dryer
Electronic key card
Safety deposit box
Air-conditioning
Interactive TV
Bluetooth speakers
Coffee and tea making facilities
Daily bottled water
Wi-fi access
Refrigerator
Duplex Triple
Standard Price (after 3/15)= $3395/person
Paid in Full Price = $3195/person
Duplex Quad+
Standard Price (after 3/15)= $3095/person
Paid in Full Price = $2895/person
+If you are traveling alone, we will pair you with two other travelers of the same gender in the Triple room (first to book gets the bigger bed). If you wish to book the Quad, you must know your roommates as two people will be sharing a bed and we never ask strangers to share.
Sirakan Villa
Perfect for couples seeking a more luxurious getaway. Enjoy the outdoor jacuzzi with a glass of champagne. This 700 sq.ft. over-the-water villa highlights indoor and outdoor glass bottom floors boasting the island’s marine biodiversity.
700 sq.ft.
2 guests
1 bedroom
1 king bed
Private ocean-view balcony
Outdoor jacuzzi
Glass bottom floor
Bath amenities
Hair dryer
Electronic key card
Safety deposit box
Air-conditioning
Interactive TV
Bluetooth speakers
Coffee and tea making facilities
Daily bottled water
Wi-fi access
Refrigerator
Sirakan Double
Standard Price (after 3/15)= $4395/person
Paid in Full Price = $4195/person
This room can only be booked with someone you know.
About your Retreat Leaders
About Angelique Flynn, CAP, RYT-500
Retreat Leader, Yoga Teacher & Ayurvedic Practitioner
Angelique is a 500-hour Yoga Teacher and experienced Retreat Leader. She teaches her students how to find self-acceptance and a positive mindset on their yoga mats. Each of her classes builds up to a unique and challenging pose, and she always gives her students options to make the pose accessible. Expect to learn something new when you practice with Angelique!
Angelique holds a Master of Science in Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine and is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner. Angelique is always seeking opportunities to learn more so she can help more people find peace and joy through wellness. She aims to challenge and empower her students to find courage on and off their mats. This is the 13th retreat she has planned.
About Maria Vergeire, MSc M.D.
Retreat Leader & Ayurvedic Practitioner
Maria holds a Medical Degree and a Master of Science in Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine and is a graduate of the Ayurveda Nutrition and Culinary Training (ANACT) program of Bhagavat Life NYC. She worked for 24 years as a Clinical Research Physician Scientist in the Pharmaceutical Industry (Merck and Co. Inc. Brystol Meyer and Squibb, Eisai Pharmaceutical and Syneos Health). She has written numerous research publications focused on Oncology, Neuropsychiatry, Bone and Metabolism. She is currently attending the PhD program at Maharishi International University and is the Lead Investigator for an Epigenetic Study on Ayurveda Treatment Modalities.
Maria is always seeking to understand how to help people feel their best through a holistic and scientific approach. In addition to her academic and research work, Maria enjoys cooking, traveling, hiking, and gardening. She is originally from the Philippines (now a Floridian) and the inspiration for this retreat!