After "checking in" into Jhana Grove, I realised that the cottage that I assigned myself to (with other 5 fellow participants) is like a self-sufficient dwelling completed with a dining area, a kitchenette, fridge and a microwave oven. There were 6 rooms in each cottage; inside it comes with a bed (with spring), a cloth hanger and (best of all) individual toilets with hot showers! It was designed this way so that participants can meditate (not to sleep) in their rooms whole day if they do not want to meditate in the main hall. Now, this is what a 5-star resort truly is.

The house rules were rather straightforward. All retreat participants will be on the 8 Precepts (refrain from killing, stealing, sexual conduct, lying, taking intoxicants, taking food at inappropriate times, sensuous pleasures and sleeping on luxurious beds). We also refrained from talking (even including making eye contact) and had to keep noble silence throughout the retreat though as the retreat organiser, I should had done better to enforce that. :(

There is probably one word I could use to describe the program, "simple". The highlights of the daily routine will be the talks (generally on meditation) given by the teachers (i.e. Ajahn Brahm or Ajahn Brahmali) at 8am and 8pm respectively. One could also seek an one-on-one consultation with the teachers during the interview sessions (a Kappiya or monk assistant will be nearby when it is a female participant) held after the morning talk or the late afternoon. Thus, other than the meals (i.e. vegetarian breakfast and lunch), the rest of the day is really free and easy.

Anyway, as of all Sillyporeans who are so used to conforming to rules & regulations, the first question I asked when we met the teachers was if there were any formal program schedule which we could follow. Was quite taken aback when I was told we could decide the program ourselves. Upon further (was trying very hard not to be persistent) enquiries, I was given a schedule that stated "rise-and-shine" followed by self-guided meditation at 4am.

It was strange that no one seems to follow the official proposed program; especially when everybody (including myself) had previously asked for one.