Who comes to the conference?
Yogis of every experience level from brand new beginners to those who have been teaching for years. The conference is a great convergence of yogis of all ages and backgrounds from around the country and abroad.

I like yoga, but I'm not an advanced student or a teacher. Is the conference for me?
Yes! You need not be an advanced practitioner to enjoy a conference. If you are unfamiliar with many of the styles of yoga represented at the conference, this is your chance to dive in and explore. An open mind is a great asset for your conference experience as you will find many new ideas presented. The conference offers a unique opportunity to study with the teachers you have read about or perhaps even seen on DVDs. It is an opportunity to experience world-class yoga instruction, to discover how your favorite styles of yoga are evolving, and to sample various styles of yoga in one place.

I've been taking yoga for 2 years but not regularly, should I take the classes in the Beginners Track?
The Beginners Track is designed to give new yoga students the foundations to start their yoga practice. If you have studied some yoga, you may find the beginner classes too basic, but you may also find that these classes address the fundamentals that can deepen your practice. Every yoga student is different so it is difficult to recommend which classes will be a fit for you. We encourage you to explore the course descriptions and faculty biographies and see which classes pique your interest. The conference is a chance for you to explore various styles of yoga all in one place.

I'm not a yoga teacher but am thinking about becoming one. Are the Continue Your Education classes for me?
The Continue Your Education classes are geared towards yoga teachers and teachers-in-training. However, advanced students thinking about becoming yoga teachers may appreciate the in-depth discussions and explorations that these classes provide.

What is included in my tuition fees?
In addition to your classes you have access to daily special events-morning meditations, keynote address, panel discussions, lunchtime workshops, kirtans, and evening events. (All special events are free unless otherwise noted.) Transportation, meals, and lodging are not included in tuition fees.

Are meals included in the price of the conference?
No, meals at the conference are not included in tuition. Healthy to-go lunch options will be available for purchase on site on Saturday and Sunday. The Westin Diplomat also has 6 dining options available, from casual fare overlooking the ocean to fine dining. Yoga Journal Conference attendees who stay at the Westin Diplomat will receive a 15% discount at these restaurants including Café, Splash, Rivals and Aizia. Room service will be available 24 hours and include wholesome vegetarian items.

What should I bring?
You will need to bring a mat to practice on when needed. We also suggest that you bring any other props that you regularly use in your practice. A blanket or meditation cushion is helpful if you plan to participate in meditation classes. You may also want to bring a notebook and pen, a refillable water bottle, slip-on shoes (or flip flops) and of course, comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely. Please read course descriptions carefully for other required items. These items may also be for sale on site during limited hours in the Yoga Marketplace. Check out our Conference Tips for more: http://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/269

Are there Continuing Education Credits available?
All classes at the conference are eligible for Continuing Education Credits with Yoga Alliance. To receive Yoga Alliance credits, simply save a copy of your class record (either your badge or confirmation email.) Yoga Alliance will contact you when they need you to submit your continuing education information. Separate certificates are not needed for Yoga Alliance.

Yoga Journal is recognized by the American Council on Exercise (ACE ) as a continuing education specialist, and is currently under review for CECs for athletic and fitness professionals. Approved courses will be noted online two months prior to the conference.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?
All refund requests must be made in writing via email yoga@horizonconferences.com or to Horizon Conferences, 1107 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302. A refund, minus a $100 processing fee, will be made for cancellation requests postmarked on or before October 22, 2010. All requests must acknowledge an understanding of the $100 processing fee. Refund requests postmarked after October 22, 2010 will be under consideration for a voucher toward a future Yoga Journal conference valid for one year, minus a $100 processing fee. No refund or voucher will be given for no shows.

Where is the Conference located?
The conference will be held at the luxurious Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa, 3555 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood, FL 33019. This hotel is ideally situated on the Atlantic Ocean, just 10 minutes from Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and 30 minutes from Miami International.

What are the accommodations?

The Westin Diplomat offers the ultimate in resort services and facilities. Choose from a variety of endless activities and dining choices, and indulge in the comforts of the luxurious and newly renovated deluxe rooms.

Accommodations must be booked directly with the Westin Diplomat by calling 800-937-8461 or 954-602-6000 or click here to book online. Mention the Yoga Journal Conference to receive the special group rate of $239 (plus tax) per night (single or double occupancy). We encourage you to make your accommodation reservations early, and book by Tuesday, October 19th to receive this discount. The group rate is offered on a space available basis and may sell out before October 19th. 

Conference attendees will receive a 15% discount on spa services (excluding packages) and can book by calling 954-883-4900 or online at diplomatresort.com. Please note: the 15% discount will apply to your account upon completion of services.

For more information about the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa please visit diplomatresort.com

Do I need to stay at the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa?
No. However, staying on site does greatly enhance your experience. You will not have to worry about commuting to the conference and you will have more time to connect with other attendees.

What airport should I fly into?
Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and Miami International are both located within 30 minutes of the Westin Diplomat.

American Airlines is offering a 5% discount to Yoga Journal Conference attendees who fly AA to the event. You may book online at www.AA.com (code 83N0AF) or by calling 800.433.1790 (code A83N0AF) Please note that an agent fee of $20 will be added to reservations made by phone.  Offer valid on travel from November 10th  through November 17th.

How will I get to the conference from the airport?
Taxi fare from Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport to the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa is approximately $25 one way; from Miami International Airport, it is approximately $65 one way. Super Shuttle offers service for under $30 from Miami International, and reservations can be made by calling 305-871-2000 or visit supershuttle.com

Is there parking?
Valet parking is available on site for $30 per day with in and out privileges. Additional parking is also available in a nearby self park garage for $20 per day with in and out privileges.

Is there a message board?
Yes. You can use the message board to contact other participants about questions you may  have about the conference or to find others for ride-sharing or sharing accommodations at the conference. Click here for the Message board. The access code is 954. Or join the Yoga Journal Conference Community on Facebook.

Can I register for just one class during the Main Weekend Conference?
Advanced registrations are only accepted for day passes or full weekend pass. Single class passes will be available for sale (on a space-available basis) on-site during the conference.

What if I want to change a class?
If you would like to request to change any classes, there is a charge of $10.00 each time you make changes, but not for each class change (therefore, try to make changes all at once). Contact the Registration Coordinator at 720-406-7407 or 800-561-9398 to request changes, or via email to yoga@horizonconferences.com.

How do I add something to my existing registration?
Contact the Registration Coordinator at 720-406-7407 or 800-561-9398 or via email to yoga@horizonconferences.com. There is no additional fee to add to your registration.

Is there a check-in procedure at the conference?
Yes. You must check in at the conference Registration Desk with either a photo ID or a copy of your registration records to sign in. Conference badges will be presented to you upon conference check-in and will be your only admission to events. Badges MUST be presented at the door to be admitted. If you loose your badge, there will be a $20 badge replacement fee. You will also be given an Event Guide, filled with event times and a map to find your classes.

What happens if I lose my badge?
Be sure to check in with the Registration Desk as soon as you realize you've lost your badge. Most badges are found by other attendees and turned in to the Registration Desk. If your badge is not found, a replacement badge will be reissued for a $20 fee.

Who do I contact if I can't make it to the conference?
Last-minute cancellations must be received via email before your first scheduled class in order to be considered for a voucher. All voucher consideration will be completed after the conference, and all supporting documentation for voucher requests must be received by November 19, 2010. No refund or voucher will be given for no-shows. View the full refund and cancellation policy here.

Will there be water easily available to refill my water bottle?
Yes. There will be water stations throughout the venue. We encourage you bring your own refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Are you looking for people to volunteer at the event?
We do have a work exchange program. Work exchange participants do not register for classes but can participate in classes on a space-available basis when not fulfilling their assigned duties. Work exchange volunteers pay a nominal fee to participate. Positions are limited; apply early. For more information, contact Horizon Conferences via email at yoga@horizonconferences.com.

Can I pass out flyers before the conference?
Yes, we would love your help in spreading the word about our conference! Please send an email to yjconference2009@gmail.com if you are interested.

Is there someplace to store my mat and props during lunch and other long breaks?
No, there is no place to store your belongings during the breaks. You may be able to leave items at the bell desk, however we strongly discourage bringing any valuables to the conference. Unfortunately, losses have occurred at past events. Yoga Journal and the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa are not responsible for any lost or stolen items throughout the conference.