GUEST INFORMATION

When should I plan to I arrive?

Please arrive for registration between 4:00 and 7:00 pm on the day your retreat begins. To ensure we are ready to greet you, please do not arrive earlier than 4:00 pm. If you will be arriving later than 7:00 pm, please call the Registration Office at (800) 398-2630 x307 to let us know.

When is the first meal of the retreat served?

Dinner is usually held at 6:00 pm or 6:30 pm for weekday arrivals, and at 7:30 pm or 8:00 pm on Shabbat.

When should I plan to depart?

You must be checked out of your room by 9:00 am on the day your retreat ends. Unless otherwise noted, retreats end at 12:00 noon. Depending on the weekly schedule, brunch or lunch will be provided on the last day of your retreat.

What do I need to bring to a retreat?

• We provide alarm clocks, bedding, soap and towels, though you might want to bring a beach towel if you plan to use the hot tub, pool or lake (in season only).
• Chairs and a limited number of floor cushions are available for meditation. During meditation retreats we suggest you bring your own cushion or backrest if you have one.
• Bathing suits are required to be worn in the hot tub.
• Hiking boots, a flashlight and inclement weather gear are recommended.
• Ritual wear for services (kippot, tallesim, tefillin, etc.) is optional and is available at the center. Many people wear white on Shabbat and holidays. Prayer books are provided, though you may choose to bring your own.
• Dress is casual. Please bring loose clothing for yoga.
• Please bring any prescription medications you will need for the duration of your stay.
• Calling cards are required for long distance calls from guest phones. Please come with your own calling card or purchase one in our bookstore.

Emergency numbers

• In case of an emergency, messages may be left at (800) 398-2630 ext. 312. Messages left after 10:00 pm will be heard the next morning at 9:00 am. Please use this number for emergencies only. Non-emergency messages cannot be relayed.
• Most cell phones and beepers do not work in our mountains, and they are not permitted in classes.

Computer and Phone Access

We provide free wireless internet access in the main building. Two computer terminals are also available in our lounge. Phone service is provided but calling cards are required for long distance calls. Please come with your own calling card or purchase one in our bookstore.

Joyful Service

Joyful service is a wonderful way to give back to our community. We are often in need of helping hands in the kitchen, dining room and housekeeping. Please check for signup sheets at the registration table when you arrive.

If you are attending an Elat Chayyim retreat...

Retreats at the Elat Chayyim Center for Jewish Spirituality have some unique features, such as silent breakfasts, sharing circles and alternative prayer services. For more information, please visit www.isabellafreedman.org/elatchayyim.

If you are attending a meditation retreat...

• Silence is widely practiced during our meditation retreats, including at meals and other times outside the sessions. There are however, verbal one-to-one interviews and teaching periods.
• We have some chairs and cushions available for your use during meditation sessions, but we suggest you bring your favorite meditation cushion or backrest if you have one.

What about food issues?

If you need a refrigerator for medical or health reasons please contact the registrar at (800) 398-2630 or registrar@isabellafreedman.org before you arrive.

Scent-free Environment

Because some of our guests have allergies, we kindly request that you avoid the use of perfumes, colognes and scented oils. Please use only unscented body-care products. Some unscented products are available in our bookstore.