The Margaret Austin Center is a serene and simple place, near Chappell Hill, about an hour and 15 minutes west of Houston on 290. Located on 40 acres of field and wood, it has a meditation hall, two bunkhouse style dorms, teachers quarters, and a beautiful lofty dining hall. I have a long-standing connection with MAC, and have many happy cooking memories. (However, be forewarned that MAC has been "discovered" and that their schedule is booked quite far in advance, save for summer months.)

For information contact Allycen at info@macenter.org or (800) 836 4757

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Soma Ranch

Soma Ranch is the creation of international Nia dance/exercise teacher Helen Terry and her family, who fill this piney woods ranch with joyful and creative spirit. "We vision Soma Ranch to be a magical place where folks R R R R Relax, Rejuvenate, Replenish & Renew," writes Helen. Includes a spacious and comfy ranch house with private and semi-private rooms, a beautiful large dance hall, a sizable bunkhouse, an outdoor hot tub, and Swedish sauna.

For information contact Helen at HelenT@nianow.com or (832) 567 4550

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Scenic View Retreat Center

Scenic View Retreat Center is owned and run by Houston beloved yoga teacher Kay Westcott. A lovely place for smaller retreats, intimate and simple with a quiet Zen-like atmosphere, Scenic View sits atop a hill on seven rural acres northwest of Houston. Includes a yoga studio, sleeps 10, three bedrooms, futon beds, a pond, and a front porch with an amazing view.

For information contact Kay at kaywestcott@sbcglobal.net or (832) 567 4550

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While I have a connection with these retreat centers, I am happy to explore the possibilities of cooking at other retreat centers in the area.