FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Does “living off the grid” include all the amenities I’m used to?
Yes! Living off the grid is absolutely wonderful! There are no electromagnetic fields or lines around you, yet we have plenty of electricity to serve all your needs, including wireless internet in some areas and fully equipped kitchen with amenities like a blender, coffee maker, toaster, etc. in the main house and the cottages. Although we are off the grid, our place is very elegant and nurturing. If you have never before experienced being off the grid, then you are in for a real treat! We create our own electricity directly from the sun via solar panels, we pump our own water from a well, and we live sustainably and self-sufficiently from the land through organic farming. All of our houses are built to code with modern plumbing, and if we did not tell you that we are off the grid, you would never know it! Welcome to the new Eco-Conscious way of living and traveling elegantly green!
When staying in Opua House, what areas are communal?
The lovely Opua House has shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. While your room is still your private temple, the large and well kempt kitchen (with two sinks and ample storage space in both fridge and cupboards) is communal, and a great gathering place to connect with our many interesting guests. We also have outdoor seating areas in our Five Elements Garden and in the front of Opua House.
Are there laundry facilities on site?
Because our water and electric services are at the mercy of the heavens (solar power, pumped well water serviced by our bio-diesel generator) we are unable to provide personal laundry service to our guests, as our energy consumption requires delicate balancing with Mother Nature.
However, there are laundromats just minutes away in both Haiku and Paia town.
Is there an additional clean-up fee?
We prefer a one week minimum booking in the cottages and a 5 night minimum booking in the rooms. However if we have availability we take fewer nights and we charge an additional clean up fee for the cottages of $75 and for the rooms of $35. We are a small off the grid retreat and have only limited energy resources and therefore not really prepared for one night only and our land is so precious, you want to explore and stay longer.
Are there phones at the retreat available for use?
The Opua House has a land-line in the dining area with long distance that guests may use. Cell phone reception on the land normally works, depending on your carrier and location. Wi-Fi is included in your cost of stay, and available in the Opua House (the Thai Hale and Bamboo Temple are purposefully designated Wireless Free Zones). Using the Skype program is a wonderful way to get in touch with family and friends, and if both parties have a webcam, it even includes video!
Am I able to receive mail and/or packages at the retreat?
Yes. However, we can only receive FedEx and US Postal Service mail (UPS will not deliver here). FedEx can be sent directly to our 610 Huelo Road Haiku, HI 96708 address, while US Postal Service mail may ONLY be delivered to our P.O. Box (P.O. Box 80080 Haiku, HI 96708), or it will be sent back. Keep in mind that all mail to Maui takes at least 3 days longer than expected, despite what mainland delivery services believe. Please take this into account and let our office know as soon as possible what you are expecting and when, so that we may keep our eyes open for your parcel and pick it up for you if delivered off site.
Where can I get more information about what to do on Maui?
Our links page provides information on retreats, car rentals, yoga, and much more. Our good friends at Hawaii Active offer wonderful adventures such as whale watching, swimming with dolphins, Hawaiian Luaus, and bicycle rides down the famous Haleakala volcano. See Maui Activities
Kutira and Raphael also live on-site, as well as our excellent team of international apprentices and all are able to answer any questions you might have.
Am I allowed to bring my children?
The allowance of children is decided on a case-by-case basis (based on age, space, and location of your vacation rental). Generally, we strive to maintain a meditative space and if we are able to do so while hosting your wonderful family, we would love to!
Am I allowed to bring my dog?
