Samudra Yoga and Surfing Retreat Morocco
Taghazout - 1 Week Retreat, October 13th – 20th, 2007

Here's the latest retreat review...Fresh off the camel’s back and now basking in the warm Moroccan sun in Taghazout, where we have just finished a one week Yoga and Surfing retreat. A diverse group of 12 people, representing the flags of Australia, Canada, USA, UK, Scotland, France, the Philippines and South Africa, joined Samudra crew to share the delights of Morocco.

The Pad…We could not have found a better venue for this retreat. The staff, the grounds, the rooms, the pool, the beautiful yoga pavilion with the sounds of waves literally 3 meters away. With the ocean at our doorstep and the desert behind us, it really felt like a ‘retreat’ from the world outside.

Checkout the setup:

	Playtime…For many of us, thoughts of learning to surf or surfing in an unknown environment for the first time were somewhat daunting; however any such fears on the retreat were soon quashed with the help of supportive surf instructors and guides. Each day we surfed the best spot of the day with the primo session coming midweek at Mysteries, a hop, skip and a jump from our lush apartments. Although some of us would have liked to see the famous points firing like they are renowned for at this time of the year, the waves we scored were perfect for beginner and intermediates with long, fun rides had by all and even a few sneaky tubes at Boilers for the more adventurous.
	Pals…The rugby results may have caused a few rifts amongst the group, however we were soon all good buddies and even became friendly with the local wildlife. Not only were the camels handy for hitching a ride to the surf, but they proved trusty lifeguards keeping a good eye on the swell for us. (As far as I know they are still on the lookout, hoping and waiting!)
	Tunes…Wednesday night unfolded into a traditional Moroccan evening, complete with saloon-style dining to the joyous racket of a 4 piece Moroccan Folklore band. In-between receiving henna hand treatments and sipping mint tea we were up and dancing away to the lively act! Thursday night we continued the musical theme with talented Aussies Scott Kociuruba and Dave Lawrence dropping by to share their melodic expose. Checkout their tunes on http://www.myspace.com/misterspace.
	Cuisine…A trip to Morocco is not without a trip to the souk (market) and Agadir’s souk is certainly one not to be missed. Arm yourself with a guide (there are no shortages of willing ‘trolley boys’ and friendly guides) and sample the best fresh produce, spices, dates and olives that Morocco is renowned for…who knows you might even score yourself a pet chameleon. Oh no, the action did not stop at the souk. Back at blissful Killer Point, our local Chef, Khadiga (armed with a bevy of helpers) did an amazing job to bring traditional cuisine to the multi-cultural palette. We tasted traditional tagine, couscous and local fresh fish and even shared some of our own recipes (chai of course!) which went down a treat.
	Contemplation…With Moroccan Ramadan finishing the day the retreat began, there was a fresh spirit in the air, and we picked up the vibe immediately. Throughout the week of morning yoga sessions we found new areas of strength, length and energy within ourselves (not without a fair effort though!). Each day after a surf and a snooze, a more rejuvenative yoga session was almost as welcomed as the delicious dinner.
	Contentment…Is one word that nicely sums up the retreat. The mind is still, the body feels good, the stomach has settled, only the solo camel remains at ‘les plage’ looking out to the horizon line, hopeful. To do our part we thought we had better pay a visit to the local mosque to pray for swell to arrive next year.

2009 Morocco…

Reserve your place now. We are running a retreat in Morocco next year, same place, same month, though with a two week option to really have the chance to immerse in this state of being.

We are taking bookings now so reserve your place early via email only to info@samudra.com.au

Past Retreat Reviews

Byron Bay Surf and Yoga 2-week Experience, September 2006

Byron Bay Surf and Yoga Retreat, November 2007

Byron Bay Surf and Yoga Retreat, May 2008