1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?

The most memorable part was pretty much the entire holiday. We were never really spiritual people but something changed in us on this trip. We have just returned from our trip to Maui and have the following to say about the retreat. Our trip to the Eco lodge was really last minute and Kutira was kind enough to pick us up form the airport as we messed up our taxi booking. Going to Maui for me was more of a surf vacation than anything else but it turned into a spiritual journey mixed with the most amazing sight seeing, great food, friendly people all topped off with the famous Hawaiian spirit of Aloha. We stayed in the Thai Hale bamboo cottage and now will never stay in a resort or hotel ever again. It was a truly wonderful experience to wake up every morning to the sound of birds, wind in the trees and watching whales swimming in the clear blue ocean, the view from where we were having breakfast. The outdoor shower was truly invigorating and the grounds with their many scenic trails through tropical mango and coconut forests was absolutely amazing - where else can you pick up coconuts and bananas and eat them on the spot???

The grounds were dotted with little bamboo meditation temples to either just sit and listen to the birds, meditate or do yoga. For us we weren't sure what we were getting ourselves into as we (previously) weren't really that spiritual, didn't do yoga or meditation let alone the very many other sessions that Kutira and her husband Rafael had on offer. By our last day Rafael actually did a small session with myself and my wife and we regret not taking part in the many sessions that happened previously, not to worry we will definitely be back. Let me also say the staff that worked the grounds were all amazing and we actually ended hanging out with them even after we left the retreat and stayed in town.

We run our own holiday company here in Portugal so our expectations were always going to be high and we weren't disappointed. We thoroughly recommend a stay, whether it's to do a complete retreat or whether it's just to stay for a week or more as part of your travel around this special island. To everyone at the retreat so much Mahalo and a big Aloha.

2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?

Take hiking shoes, wet weather gear and also REALLY warm gear if you want to see the sunrise on mount Haleakala. Maui is tropical but it also does have everything from mountains to deserts to jungles so be prepared for all types of weather. You will also definitely need a car if you aren't staying the entire time in the beautiful retreat.

3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?

That's all it was about, this is the future.

4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?

Can't wait to go back.