Q&A
Frequently Asked Question:
Got a question, we are here to answer. If you don't see your question here, sent us an email.
ESSENTIALS:
When and where is retreat taking place?
From 26th to 29th of July 2024 and take place in Athens, Greece.
What weather can I expect in Greece in July?
July is the summer month in Greece.
Expected temperatures are between 35C (95F) and 40C (104F), very sunny, a little windy, no rain.Does the retreat have a theme?
ROAR YOUR ROLE!
How do I register for the retreat?
English: https://yaleadersretreat.sathyasai.org/register
Español: https://yaleadersretreat.sathyasai.org/register-es
Русский: https://yaleadersretreat.sathyasai.org/register-ru
Where will we stay?
The venue of the retreat called Sai Prema, Markopoulo/Athens, Greece.
Sai Prema address: Digeni, Markopoulo Mesogeas 190 03, google mapsWhat is included in the retreat package?
Transportation from/to Airport, accommodation, transportation during retreat and food for the four days.
What is the retreat fee?
108 € (114 $).
Payment has to be made in euros, in cash when you arrive to Sai Prema.
There is exchange office in the Airport building, where you can exchange money when you arrive.
If you want to pay via bank transfer, please contact us, we will provide you with bank information.What should I pack for the retreat?
Please bring with you towel, bedsheets and pillow cover.
“Sai appropriate” summer clothing, drink bottle, hat, swimwear, toiletries, medication (if required).
Can I bring my spouse, children, other family members or friends?
Yes. Currently, we are looking at separate accommodation options, as Sai Prema accommodates a limited number of people.
There will also be a parallel children's programme to accommodate families with young children.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you have to cancel your application, please inform your Zonal Young Adult Coordinator/Subcommittee lead & write us at yaevents@sathyasai.orgHow can I contact the organizers?
Pease contact us at yaevents@sathyasai.org
TRAVEL - GETTING THERE:
Information about visas:
For all information on visas and visa policy in Greece (and the Schengen area, of which Greece is a part), please visit this signpost
https://www.mfa.gr/en/visas/visas-for-foreigners-traveling-to-greece/
a) Who is subject to the visa requirement for Greece?
Here you can find out whether you need a visa or not depending on your passport
b) What documents do I need to apply for a visa?
A filled in and signed visa application form;
A passport issued in the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after the end of the stay;
An identity photograph;
Proof of possession of adequate and valid travel medical insurance;
Invitation letter
c) Invitation Letter - where to get this with the personalized name on the letter?
Please contact us on yaevents@sathyasai.org and we will provide you with Invitation letter.
d) Cost of visa?
80 €
Which airport should we fly into?
Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH)
https://www.aia.gr/en/travelerWhich train station or bus station should we arrive at?
Athens Railway Station, known as the «Larissa Station» is the main railway station of the Greek capital and supports long-distance travel to Larisa, Thessaloniki, Alexandroupoli and other destinations in the Greek mainland.
Athens suburban railway (Proastiakos) connects Athens Airport to Athens central train station and Piraeus.
The Line Athens International Airport – Koropi – Athens – Piraeus will easily get you to Athens city center in just 35 minutes.
Athens Kifissos Bus Terminal also know as KTEL Kifissos
If I will be transported from the airport by you, how will I know how and by whom I will be transported?
Member of the organizing team will wait for you in front of the airport with “Sai Ram” sign.
And what if my flight is delayed?
Member of the organizing team will follow your flight on the airport webpage arrivals and be on time to pick you up.
Is it possible to rent a car at the airport and use it during the retreat?
Yes, it is possible to rent a car and use it during the retreat.What do I need to rent a car in Greece?
In addition to money and credit card, you will also need your original driving license and a European driving license or International driving license.Is it possible to park here?
Yes, it is possible to park on site, just be aware that the number of parking spaces is limited.Will I need a vignette or other fee for using the car during the retreat?
No. You will only pay an additional fee if you want to take your car into the city centre, where parking is usually charged.
If you are taking highway, you will have to pay tolls.
ONCE YOU ARE IN GREECE:
Special items to note when traveling to Greece (things to bring/not bring)?
Passport with valid Schengen visa, suncream, fan, Sai appropriate summer clothes.How will we get to the venue from the airport?
a) Is transportation provided from the airport to the retreat location?
Yes, member of organizing team will wait you in front of the Airport to drive you to venue.
b) Is airport transportation included in the retreat fee?
Yes, it is included in retreat fee.
Is Greece a cash only system?
No! You can pay with cash and bank cards.
What currency is used to pay in Greece?
Euro (€)Where should we change currency?
Money can be exchanged at money changers located at the airport or train stations, or you can get local currency by withdrawing it from ATMs located at the airport or in the town near Sai Prema where the event will be held. In case you would like to obtain local currency by withdrawing from ATMs, just check in advance that your card can be withdrawn from the ATM in question.Can I use a credit card and, if applicable, what type of credit card can I use?
You can use your credit card in Greece, just check with your bank beforehand if and where you can use it in Greece.Is it possible to pay by card everywhere in Greece or only in certain places?
In Greece, you can pay by card in larger shops, at petrol stations, or in the center of town in more expensive cafés and pastry shops. However, you don't always have this option in smaller shops, so it is advisable to carry some cash.
RETREAT ACTIVITIES:
What activities and workshops can I expect during the retreat?
The programme includes team building activities, sessions for individual spiritual growth and group strategic planning, cultural program, beach time, fun activities, physical exercise, boys/girls activities, bhajans.
Do I have to participate in all activities?
We encourage maximum participation.
I have heard that swimming in the sea is part of it, but what if I can't swim or don't want to be on the beach with the other genders, do I have to participate in this activity?
Swimming will be strictly gender segregated at different beaches. Swimming in the sea will be optional. Safety is always prioritized.
ACCOMMODATION:
What type of accommodation will be provided?
Shared rooms (3 - 5 persons) with separate bathroom.
How many meals a day will we have?
Four meals a day including breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner, with lunch and dinner being hot meals.
And what roughly will the menu include?
Breakfast consists of cereals, yogurt, milk (cow and plant base), seasonal fruit, nuts, dried fruits, honey, jams, tahini, chocolate tahini, tea, coffee, etc.
Since the team from Italy will be cooking, as a rule one of the hot meals a day includes pasta.
Above all though, plenty of seasonal vegetables, as the venue is an organic farm, so the food is primarily sourced from there. The menu is also sure to include rice as a side dish.
Fruit will be available to participants for breakfast and an afternoon snack.
What dietary accommodations are available?
Gluten free, vegan, lactose free. Allergies will also be catered for.
Will the food here also be adequate for children (e.g. no spicy food)?
Yeah, don´t be afraid it is not a South Indian canteen in PN.
Will it be possible to buy your own food during the retreat?
If it is needed, it can be provided and organized.
Is there an Internet connection at the venue?
Yes, there is, but it is not a strong internet connection, as Sai Prema is in the countryside.And do I have access to it?
Yes, if you need it.And if not, is it possible to connect to a strong and stable internet somewhere if necessary?
Connection is getting better over the years but it's definitely not strong.
Near the venue there is no strong internet connection.And is it possible to get a local sim card easily?
You can buy a local sim card at the Airport.
BEFORE AND AFTER THE RETREAT:
What happens if I arrive early or extend my stay beyond the retreat dates? Can I stay in Sai Prema?
Staying in Sai Prema is possible from 22nd July till 2nd August 2024.
Accommodation is 20 eur/day (22 $/day), food is not included.
Please note Sai Prema is in the countryside, you will need a car if you want to visit the beach or go to Athens.Are there any other events happening before or after the retreat?
Yes, there are events in Sai Prema before and after Leaders Retreat.
- European SSEHV Camp for Sai Families (13th July - 21st July 2024)
- Sadhana camp (3rd August - 11th August 2023)Will there be additional sightseeing options before/after the retreat?
On Tuesday 30th July it will be an organized visit to Athens for the whole day. This excursion is not included in the retreat fee, you will need money for the metro (around 3 eur/return ticket), for entrance at the archeological site, for food.
Will we be given the opportunity to possibly buy gifts for family and friends?
If you join us for the Athens excursion, you will find many gift shops and there will be dedicated time for shopping.