I'll just come right out and say it - yoga retreats can be expensive. It seems the biggest challenge is finding an affordable option. But don't just go for the cheapest option, because there are a few other things to consider.
What type of yoga retreat are you looking for?
A yoga retreat is a vacation, and for me, personally, there are two types of vacations. A vacation in Paris, for example, is one where I want to explore and visit museums and eat macaroons at every little cafe I see. A vacation to some remote island off mainland Thailand, however, is another story. A small island is the perfect place to relax in a hammock with a good book, eat fresh fruit and swim. So first and foremost, figure out what type of yoga retreat you want. Besides yoga, is your ideal day packed with activities or do you prefer a quiet, laid back schedule?
Who are the instructors and what style yoga will be offered?
Not everyone will agree with me, but if I'm going to spend hundreds or in some cases thousands of dollars to go on a yoga retreat, I'd want to make sure I have a general sense of the instructors' personalities and styles of teaching. I'd check out their blogs and social media, and try to drop in on one of their yoga classes or see if they've got a class on youtube.
Where does it all go down?
A snowy mountain in the Swiss Alps or a remote beach in Nicaragua? Choose a place that most appeals to you, and then double check safety advisories. Take a look at the venue's website, and if it's at a hotel, check out the reviews on tripadvisor.
What's to eat?
Some retreats are meant for detox, while other promote a strict vegetarian or vegan diet. Some don't serve coffee, while others serve wine. While coffee and wine aren't total necessities, you may want to double check the menu especially if you've got any kind of special diet or allergy.
How many others?
Don't worry about who you'll talk to during meals - the best part of a yoga retreat is that they attract likeminded people and you'll make fast friends. I would, however, just ask how many people the venue can accommodate because I think the teacher to student ratio is important depending on how much individual attention you'd like in class.
What's the cancellation policy?
Any number of things could happen between the time you pay and the day your flight leaves, so in the off-chance something comes up and you can't go, just make sure you can get your money back.
Anything else you would add?