White Cloud Sanctuary
Santa Ana, Costa Rica

The location: Just west of San José in central Costa Rica, on a jungle mountainside that feels a world away from civilization. The 13-acre property includes a small organic vegetable farm; several outdoor practice areas; mango, banana, and papaya trees (which guests can pick from as they like); and lots of friendly resident animals, including horses, goats, ducks, and rabbits.

The practice: Only one guest at a time can stay at White Cloud, which allows for intense individual study in Tai Chi and QiGong—Chinese meditation-in-movement practices. Retreat participants adhere to a daily schedule of guided sessions and quiet seated meditation.

The accommodations: A one-person tile-roofed casita, set at the very top of the property and with glorious mountain views. It includes a single bed, a kitchen, a bathroom, and a living area where, oddly, you can plug in your laptop.

Be mindful: The lodging rates don't include meals, although meal-plan options can be arranged.

More information: White Cloud Sanctuary