Easalen

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	Easalen
Highway 1, Big Sur, California 93920-9616 USA			MAP
tel: +1 831 667 3000

Founded in 1962, near Monterey, south of Santa Cruz in California, with a dense programme of around 400 workshops and courses a year on all kinds of New Age and holistic subjects which generally blend Eastern and Western philosophies. There are hot springs, a massage area and swimming pool, though as swimsuits are optional and nudity common, this might not be considered appropriate in some families.

For Families

The centre operates a Gazebo School Early Childhood programme for children one to six years, with an average of 15-20 children each day. Visiting children can join during regular school hours (Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm) or during workshops. Activities include gardening, pony rides, learning about animal care, exploring nature, a real boat, the magic castle, and an Indian tepee. Reservations should be made at least a month in advance. Cost is US$250 for a weekend, US$450 for a week. Over the summer and sometimes at Easter there are workshops specifically designed for families to enjoy together, many of these arts based.

Sample Price

For a five-day workshop the fee is around US$1,000. This covers tuition, food and lodgings. Flights and transfers are of course extra. Accommodation is shared, housing two or three people per room and in some cases bathrooms are shared. Couples and families are housed together.