Bali

A yoga retreat centres on asana practice and meditation, often with a broader wellness programme around it. A Balinese healing retreat draws more specifically on local traditions - energy work, herbal treatments and ceremonies rooted in Balinese Hindu culture - and the two are often blended together.

Ubud, inland and surrounded by rice terraces, tends to suit those wanting a jungle, yoga-focused retreat, while coastal areas suit those who want to pair wellness with beach time. Both have well-established retreat scenes.

No - Bali's retreat scene caters heavily to beginners, with many programmes specifically designed to introduce yoga and meditation gradually alongside spa and detox elements.

Days often start early with sunrise yoga, followed by a plant-based breakfast, treatments or workshops through the day, and an evening meditation or ceremony. Exact structure varies by retreat and programme.

Generally, yes - Bali's retreat costs, particularly for accommodation and treatments, tend to be lower than comparable options in the Maldives or parts of Europe, even once the flight is factored in.

Many retreats include an optional visit to a local temple, where you may witness or take part in a purification ceremony involving holy water. Modest dress is expected, and your retreat will usually brief you beforehand.

Yes - several retreats offer dedicated digital detox programmes or simply encourage phone-free days as part of a broader wellness schedule, particularly in more remote jungle locations.

Very much so - plant-based and vegan menus are the norm at most Balinese wellness retreats, reflecting both the local cuisine and the detox focus of many programmes.

Bali is tropical year-round, with humidity higher during the wet season (November to March). Most retreats are designed with this in mind - open-air yoga shalas, fans and shaded areas - but it's worth packing accordingly.

Tipping isn't obligatory but is appreciated and increasingly common at higher-end retreats. Some properties add a service charge automatically - worth checking your booking terms.