Dance & Connect in Abéné, Senegal
8 DAYS
Next dates: December 28, 2024 - January 4, 2025
5-6 participants
Additional nights possible. This retreat and/or the house can also be booked individually in VIP on other dates.
Join us in Abéné, an unspoiled village nestled by the sea in Southern Senegal. Immerse yourself in the roots of humanity in 'Mother Africa' and reconnect with your inner essence.
This presents a unique opportunity for those who have always dreamed of visiting Africa but are unsure of where to start. It's a chance to delve into the wisdom and richness of African culture, taking a respite to appreciate the moment and embrace the genuine warmth and friendliness of the Senegalese people.
Drawing inspiration from the land of 'Teranga,' the one invaluable lesson I've learned from these amicable people is to embrace the present, to live in the now, as tomorrow is 'inchallah'—a concept reminding us that tomorrow is yet to unfold.
Participate in African dance classes, or if you prefer, indulge in drumming or kora lessons. Each day, Catherine starts with morning meditation, followed by a run along the beach or some light exercises like the '5 Tibetans.' You're welcome to join her at your leisure.
For those seeking a deeper experience, Catherine recommends participating in 3 active breathwork group sessions. Like everything in our program, feel free to choose activities that resonate with you. Curious about breathwork? Find more information here: https://myhappyretreats.com/sessions/
Discover the allure of stunning beaches, picturesque sunsets, and vibrant markets in Abéné and Kafountine. The village tailor is ready to craft magnificent, custom-made dresses, and accessories to enhance your experience.
This retreat offers ample time for relaxation, set in the tranquility of a small village. While we suggest some optional activities outlined below, our primary focus is on slowing down, aligning with the rhythms of Africa, and unwinding from our usual hectic lives.
Activities
- Program:
- Light exercises and meditation
- Breathwork introduction and sessions 3x on 3 days
- African dance classes 1h, 4x on 4 days
- Free time and suggested, optional activities
- Additional dance or drumming classes private or group
- Additional breathwork sessions private or group
- Enjoy the stunning beach and contemplate the amazing sunsets
- Go to the local market in Kafountine
- See the tailor of the village and go home with some beautiful & custom-made cloths
- Visit of the local school, donations like pencils are always welcome
- Boat ride between de mangroves and/or baracuda fishing
General information
- Languages: The national language in Senegal is Wolof and many people speak French. Catherine speaks French, Spanish, English, Italian and German.
- Food: Martine will be cooking for us and spoil us with delicious local specialties. She buys the food every day from the local markets and the sea food freshly fished from the local fishermen.
- Flights and airports: We suggest you fly with Brussels Airways to Banjul, Gambia, flight arriving at 16h20 in Banjul on Saturday, and leaving at 22h00 on Saturday. If you want to take another flight, be aware that the borders in Gambia close at 22h00 for the night. You would have to stay for the night in Gambia, which we can organize for you. Another way to travel is through Dakar and then to Zuguinchor, either by boat overnight, or by airplane. Last flight from Dakar to Ziguinchor at 17h00. Ziguinchor-Abéné 2h by car. We can help you organize that too. There are also some Charter flights to Cap Skirring from Europe. Cap Skirring is about 3h from Abéné by car.
- Requirements to enter Gambia and Senegal: No formal visa is needed for Swiss and most European countries. But you will be asked a visa to enter Gambia on your way back from Senegal, which you will have to pay at the border. Prices change between 30-50 Euros. EU and Swiss citizen don’t need a visa to enter Senegal, but it is mandatory to present a passport valid for 6 months after the planned exit from the country.
- Transportation from Banjul to Abéné takes about 1h1/2. It can be longer depending on how it goes at the border. The journey costs about 80.-- Euros per journey, and can be devided between the group, if several people take the same flight. Moussa, our driver, knows all the administration to take care of at the border and is very reliable. He will be getting you at the airport. He speaks English.
- A tax of 20.- Euros is asked at the airport of Banjul to get in & out the country. It is good to have the right change both for the border and the airport.
- No Covid requirements anymore (12.2023).
Accommodation
- You will either lodge in double rooms in our private residence, owned by Doug Manuel (see collaboration) or at Max’s in a bungalow, just nearby, in case you prefer to have your own room.
- All bed rooms have private bathrooms.
- Be aware that rooms will be comfortable but simple.
Price
1'080.-- double room
1'190.-- single room
Included in the price:
- Program as mentioned above (dance lessons, breathwork sessions, meditation)
- Food, 3 meals a day
- 7 nights with room in the main house or in a bungalow hotel nearby
- Support in organisation and accompaniment to the optional activities if possible and according to program
Not included in the price:
- Flight
- Visa
- Transportation (from airport to Abéné)
- All the optional and additional activities
- Extra nights (100.-- per night)
- Extra drinks
Once you book your retreat you engage to participate at the retreat and accept the below mentioned cancellation clause. A confirmation/invoice will be sent to you and with a first payment of 50% you confirm and guarantee your place at the retreat.
Our currency is Swiss Francs.
Cancellation clause
- Up to 30 days before the retreat full refund (excluding 150.- administration fee)
- Between 29 and 21 days before the retreat 50% will be refunded (including 150.- fee)
- 20 days before the course and less no refund will be possible
Look forward to lots of fun!
Do not hesitate contacting us for special requests, questions, activities and more.