Planning a Retreat at Kariwak

In keeping with Allan and Cynthia's vision of Kariwal being a gathering place for all activities that nurture the mind, body and spirit, Kariwak’s fantastic meeting spaces are used by local and visiting groups.

The Meeting Spaces

Ajoupa 1 - Our main Ajoupa is an impressive free standing 1000 ft2, open air, thatch octagon that was completed in 1998, just in time for the arrival of HRH the Dalai Lama of Tibet who consecrated the space with his visit in October of that year. The Ajoupa is a shoe free zone to preserve not only the beautiful hardwood floor but also the special spirit of this space. This is the site of our morning stretch, yoga, meditation and tai chi sessions as well as a regular venue for storytelling with acclaimed children’s author, Grace Hallworth, poetry readings with local groups such as the 10 Sisters and yoga, qigong and feng shui retreats.

Ajoupa 3 and the Gardens - Ajoupa 3(600 ft2) is thatched in the traditional rectangular ‘longhouse’ style with a tiled floor and a capacity for up to 50 persons seated theatre style or 30 board room style. It opens directly to the quiet lawn and gardens on three sides and there is a back wall, which can act as a useful prop for working on yoga inversions or as a recessed space in which to set up refreshments for events happening under the Ajoupa itself or on the lawn. When Ajoupa 3 is not being used for a retreat it is a favourite meeting and training workshop spot for the local business and non-profit community. This is the ideal space for outdoor weddings, art and sculpture exhibitions and a number of open air musical events such as the CD launching for Tobago’s world famous Signal Hill Alumni Choir.

Library and Conference Room - Our indoor library and conference room doubles as the television viewing room when not otherwise in use. It is an air-conditioned 480 ft2 octagonal room adjacent to the bar and restaurant, seating can be set up in either board room (15 people) or theater style (30 people) arrangements and this is definitely the best space in which to use any kind of multimedia equipment which Kariwak would be happy to help you source.

All spaces have electrical outlets, night lighting and easy access to bathroom facilities.

To find out more about past and planned retreats please see our Wellness page.