This is not for those looking for luxury, but for peace and serenity it cannot be beat. I'm not much of a camper, so this is a step up from that--your own private room and garden, with a toilet and sink, and shared shower quarters that are very basic. The monastary asks you not to use a hairdryer due to fragile electrical systems, so that was my biggest challenge as a female.

The shared kitchen provides yogurts, breads, peanut butter, coffee, etc. for your own preparation of breakfast. The noon meal is brought in (one day it was pasta and cold bean salad, the other was fresh pizza, all delicious and all meals vegetarian). They leave a large salad and pot of soup for your dinner.

I had a great retreat--all faiths welcome, no participation in the services is required although you are permitted to attend if you wish. Silence is requested at all times, and there is obviously no phones, tv, etc. A wonderful place to see spectacular ocean views by day and the... more