Silent Retreats: You Detailed Guide to Find Peace and Solitude Around the World
In a world full of constant noise and endless notifications, finding solitude can be a true art form. Silent retreats are a wonderful chance to disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in deep self-discovery. Read our guide below and use phone number tracker apps to easily find and choose those isolated corners of the planet to give you the peace and quiet you need.
Just Follow the Steps
Identify Your Preferences
Before you get over your head, you need to decide on a few things. Here we recommend paying attention to the following points: environment preferences, budget considerations, personal reflection and goals.
Reflect on whether you find more peace (in natural settings or quiet urban environments). Think about places you like, e.g., mountains, forests, beaches, deserts, lakes, rural areas, botanical gardens, historic districts, quiet cafes, and libraries to visit. For example, decide for yourself whether you prefer a city environment with accessible amenities or want to find quiet corners far away from cities.
Establish your budget for the entire trip (e.g., for travel, accommodation, food, and activities). Decide if you prefer high-end accommodations with premium services and amenities, comfortable but reasonably priced options with basic amenities, or cost-effective options like hostels, camping, or budget hotels.
Understand your hopes and goals to achieve during your time away. Do you need a place to reflect and redefine personal goals or to avoid the stresses of your routine? Are you looking for inspiration and creative activities like writing, art, or music?
Research Potential Destinations
The next step is studying potential destinations for your retreats and using location tracking apps in this context can be quite helpful.
Apps like Google Maps can help you pinpoint the exact location of retreat centers. Simply input the retreat’s name or address to view its location on the map and get directions. Travel websites, blogs, and forums are also invaluable for gathering insights and recommendations. Websites and platforms like TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet, and National Geographic can be particularly useful to look for serene locations. On these platforms you can find user-generated reviews, expert advice, and even lists of tranquil spots around the world.
For example, due to location tracking apps and services you can find and consider such destination as:
Dhamma Dipa, UK. This is a Vipassana meditation center that offers 10-day silent retreats. The retreat focuses on mindfulness and self-awareness, with a strict code of silence.
Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, USA. In California’s Ventana Wilderness, Tassajara offers Zen meditation retreats in a serene setting. The retreat highlights silence, meditation, and the practice of Zen.
Plum Village, France. This retreat in the South of France combines mindfulness practice with periods of silence in a peaceful monastic surroundings.
By the way, location tracking will be also helpful on your way to your places of rest. Apps like Number Tracker or Glympse allow you to inform your dearest ones about your current locations and your wellness without breaking a silence practice.
Consider Accessibility of the Place
Retreats are a great opportunity to relax. However, before you reach your final destination, you will have to strain a little and think about the accessibility of the place.
Make sure if there are direct flights to your destination or if you need to make connections. Try to opt for locations with convenient access from major transport hubs. Keep in mind that long travel times (e.g., a 20-hour flight to New Zealand), can be exhausting and might impact your overall wellness. You should also research local transportation options like public transit, rental cars, or shuttles in advance.
For example, choose serene spots within your country, such as a cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains if you’re in the U.S. or a coastal retreat in Cornwall if you’re in the U.K and prefer short trips. For international locations, think about destinations like the tranquil beaches of Bali or the quiet countryside of Tuscany.
Evaluate Accommodation Options
When evaluating accommodation options for a peaceful and solitary retreat, consider these tips and examples.
Remote cabins, сottages or boutique hotels and inns? While the first option is ideal for complete solitude (e.g., Smoky Mountains in the U.S. for a quiet, nature-immersed retreat) with amenities like fireplaces and hot tubs, perfect for relaxation, the small hotels offer you personalized service, tranquility and cultural immersion with fewer guests and attentive service (e.g., a boutique hotel in the historic district of Kyoto, Japan).
You can also consider monasteries or retreat centers. They often offer a peaceful atmosphere with programs for meditation and mindfulness. For example, stay at a monastery in the Swiss Alps to try a truly serene relaxation, reflection and spiritual growth.
Check Local Culture and Etiquette
Before heading to a silent retreat, it's crucial to understand and respect the local culture and etiquette. Below you can find some tips for a better experience.
Familiarize yourself with the cultural norms and traditions of the area. For example, if you're visiting a retreat in a Buddhist country, learn about local practices and beliefs related to silence and meditation.
Respect local traditions and stay aware of any local practices or rituals that might be part of the retreat experience. For instance, in Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or certain traditional accommodations like ryokan. Knowing and respecting these customs shows your appreciation for the local culture.
Understand the specific rules about silence at the retreat. Some places may have strict no-talking policies, while others might allow for minimal communication. Follow these rules to respect the retreat’s purpose.
You should also get acquainted with local laws and regulations to avoid legal troubles during your visit. For example, in Singapore, chewing gum is banned, and there are strict fines for littering. In some countries, certain medications that are legal in your home country might be restricted or illegal.
Prepare for the Trip
Preparing for a trip involves careful planning to get a smooth and enjoyable experience. Follow our practical tips to get your routine easy and worry-free.
First of all, make a detailed list of items you'll need (e.g., clothing, toiletries, and any special gear for activities). Then check the weather forecast for your destination to adjust your packing accordingly. Consider packing cubes or organizers to maximize space and keep your items sorted. Roll clothes to reduce wrinkles and pack heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase.
Gather all necessary documents such as passports, visas, travel insurance, and booking confirmations. Keep them in a secure, easily accessible place, e.g., in a travel wallet. Here you should also check your accommodation details, including check-in times and contact information. If you’re staying at a retreat or remote location, ensure you have a local SIM card if you need to stay connected.
Once you have packed your luggage and checked your documents, as well as bank accounts, relax for a moment and then check that you have taken care of everything again. Everything is okay? Congratulations, you are ready to have a rest!
Finally, Enjoy and Reflect
As you settle into the peace and tranquility of your retreat, remember that true peace does not come instantly, it takes time and patience. As the proverb says, “The quieter you go, the farther you go.” So, let yourself enjoy every moment, and let your journey become not just a vacation, but a real step towards self-development and inner peace.