Casin Anand

Casin’ Anand is a beautiful property, and the kitchen team was wonderful, making delicious vegetarian meals every day. Still, the way the owners, especially the female host, handled rules made my weeklong yoga retreat in May feel disheartening. It was promoted as a place for yoga and rest, but the atmosphere felt watchful and rigid. When I asked about yoga blocks, I was told condescendingly that “true Kundalini warriors” don’t use props, which didn’t fit the inclusive spirit I expect at a retreat. Sauna use required permission each day and strict towel rules to protect the wood. A sign said not to change the A/C temperature, and gym visits needed a staff escort. For the price, these limits felt controlling and out of step with a wellness retreat. The most troubling incident was a guest being injured by a pool umbrella that had not been secured properly in high winds. They needed an ER visit and stitches. The owners blamed the guest quickly instead of showing concern, despite there being no posted warning or clear directions that umbrellas were for staff use only. Given how far the pool is from the front office, asking permission every time seems impractical. Clear signage or staffing could have prevented the situation. This could be a wonderful retreat space with more attention to guest comfort and less focus on strict expectations. Some people may like that structure, but I found it at odds with rest, healing, and hospitality.