What does it take to turn a patch of semi-jungle into one of Thailand's most welcoming and down to Earth yoga retreats? Meet Will, founder of Suan Sati, who, tired with the transience of backpacking, decided to create the kind of space that he craved. A space where travellers from all over the world could connect, heal and feel grounded. At last, a yoga and meditation centre that was affordable and offered wellness to travellers on low budgets!Will's journey began on April 1st, 2010, when he arrived in Thailand to teach English. He felt an immediate sense of freedom he'd never experienced back home - anything was possible. After two years teaching in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, hosting couchsurfers, and then backpacking through every country in South and Southeast Asia, he found himself at a yoga retreat in Central America, realizing he was ready to give back. Three consecutive 10-day silent Vipassanā meditation retreats later, the seed for Suan Sati was planted.

In 2017, with help from backpacker volunteers whose Workaway ad went viral, he opened "The Garden of Mindfulness" in the rice fields outside Chiang Mai.

Nearly nine years later, Suan Sati employs 17 Thai staff (feeding 40+ dependents), operates on solar power, uses recycled teak and adobe mud bricks, and welcomes guests seeking community, simplicity, and connection.In this episode, we explore:- How Will built Suan Sati from scratch with volunteer backpackers and survived floods, fires, and a 19-month COVID closure- The sustainable building practices used to build Suan Sati, inlcuding adobe mud bricks, recycled teak, and solar power that drastically reduce carbon footprint- Why accessibility and inclusivity are core values - from pricing to the welcoming energy that greets yoga beginners- Cultural lessons learned from Thai staff about keeping a "cool heart" (jai yen) and leading shoulder-to-shoulder in the trenches- Northern Thailand insider travel gems from hidden trekking trails to caves!Whether you're seeking a retreat that welcomes all bodies and budgets or curious about building something meaningful abroad, Will's story offers a masterclass in transforming personal growth into collective impact.Want more inspiring backpacker stories and insider travel tips? Check out South East Asia Backpacker and subscribe to the Southeast Asia Backpacker newsletter for bi-monthly travel updates delivered to your inbox.