Clothes. In addition to typical clothing, make sure to be prepared for wet and cold (bring more than you think you need), and sun (especially, bring a hat). For meditation, you will want loose-fitting pants. And bring a swimsuit if you like submerging yourself.
For your feet, it is helpful to have something like flip-flops that slip on and off easily — for transitioning between sitting and walking meditation, several times a day. You will probably also appreciate having something boot-like for walking on the rockier parts of the island, and for getting through any wet days with dry feet.
Toiletries-wise, we get three showers per week, so bring what you need to stay fresh in between.
Remember whatever meditation cushions or benches you intend to bring. I only have a limited supply available on the island.
Meds. If you take any daily medication please note this carefully. Pack what you need in your carry-on bag for the boat trip, since there can be a delay getting your checked bag. And bring 4+ extra days of any medicine you need. There is no access to a pharmacy, and occasionally (rarely) stormy weather will delay our return to the mainland.
Backup Food. There’s lots of good food on Star, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free. However, if you you have “food issues”, you might want to bring some extra items. For example, a loaf of gluten-free bread or some trail mix.
Misc: in addition to your usual vacation sundries remember these:
- plenty of sun block and bug repellent
- flashlight (some also like having a reading light)
- water bottle
What to NOT bring:
No electrical devices with heating elements, such as hair dryers, hotpots, electric blankets, etc, or things that draw a lot of power. If you have any questions about this please ask ahead of time. The island’s electrical system is delicate, and fire safety is a major concern.
Of Smokes and Cell Phone Etiquette
It is traditional on Star Island to maintain a simple, natural atmosphere. Accordingly, we ask that you avoid talking on your mobile phone except in your room. Or if you can’t get reception in your room, there is a good out-of-the-way spot around the corner at the end of the Oceanic porch (details at our orientation.) Similarly, if you bring a laptop computer, please limit use to your room and/or the “business center”. (In the spirit of our meditation retreat, please keep your cell phone on silent, non-vibration mode.)
If you smoke, there are a couple things you need to know. Smoking is restricted to just a few places on the island, and smoking elsewhere results in a mandatory trip home on the next boat. (This will be explained at the Island orientation, Sunday afternoon.) Also, you should bring what you need, because there is no tobacco for sale on Star.