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Q&A

  • What Is ISTA?
    "ISTA" stands for the International School of Temple Arts. ISTA holds week-long trainings around the world, and generates a global network of communities. ​ ​If you are interested in joining an ISTA training - Level 1 will take place right after the festival, in Cyprus. Read more here.​
  • What’s included in the ticket price?
    Full access to the ISTA Festival program: All workshops, ceremonies, rituals, parties, temple nights, and other sessions are included. There are four parallel workshop spaces, a daily full-group assembly, and optional emotional support spaces like the "Point of You." Accommodation at a beautiful beachside venue: Depending on your ticket type, you'll stay in a double or shared room (2–5 people), or enjoy the designated camping area by the sea. Rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with essentials such as towels, bed linens, a fridge, bathroom, and more. Three meals per day: The hotel provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner with vegan and vegetarian options available at every meal. Coffee, tea, and water are also freely available throughout the day. Atmospheric setting: You’ll experience the festival in a private, nudist-friendly beachfront hotel with access to the sea, surrounded by nature and intentionally held spaces. Please note: Shuttle service from the airport is not included in the ticket but can be booked separately.
  • How do I register for the festival?
    To join the ISTA Festival, you start by selecting your room type, filling out the registration form, and paying a deposit of €350. This step reserves your spot, and you'll receive all relevant information by email. You will the receive a confirmation email with a payment link to complete the remaining ticket fee. You can choose to pay it immediately or any time up until latest October 12th. If you’d like to book a shuttle ticket, the confirmation email also contains the link for that.
  • What is the refund policy?
    The €350 deposit can be refunded within 14 days of purchase, subject to a handling fee. However, deposits made within 1 month before the festival are not eligible for a refund, regardless of the 14-day window. After the 14-day period, the deposit becomes non-refundable. Once the remaining balance has been paid, the full ticket is non-refundable. Tickets purchased within 3 weeks before the festival are not eligible for a refund.
  • Is the festival open to everyone?
    Yes, the festival is open to anyone aged 21 and over, whether you have previous ISTA experience or not.
  • Can I cancel or transfer my ticket?
    The €350 deposit can be refunded within 14 days of purchase, subject to a handling fee. However, deposits made within 1 month before the festival are not eligible for a refund, regardless of the 14-day window. After the 14-day period, the deposit becomes non-refundable. Once the remaining balance has been paid, the full ticket is non-refundable. Tickets purchased within 3 weeks before the festival are not eligible for a refund. Transfers are not officially offered, but you can email us to ask if solutions are possible. istafest.cyprus@gmail.com Here you find the full information about cancellation.
  • Is there parking at the venue?
    Yes, parking is available on-site for those arriving by car.
  • Where is the festival taking place?
    The festival takes place at a beachfront hotel in Cyprus. The exact location will be shared only with confirmed ticket holders shortly before the event.
  • Is there a shuttle service from the airport?
    Yes, shuttle services are available from both airports for approximately €20–€40 each way. You can book the shuttle during the ticket payment process.
  • How do I get there?
    You can fly into Paphos (PFO) or Larnaca (LCA) airports. We offer shuttle services from both airports.
  • Can I camp at the festival?
    Yes, there is a designated camping area close to the beach. This is the most affordable option if you want to join the festival. Camping is included in the ticket if you choose that option during registration. Here you find all the ticket options and pricing for the accommodation types.
  • What types of accommodation are available?
    Options include double rooms, shared rooms (2–5 people), and camping by the sea. All rooms are air-conditioned and designed with a clean and contemporary aesthetic. Each room includes: Private bathroom with shower Towels, bed linens, soap, and shampoo Hairdryer and mini fridge Satellite TV and safety lock WiFi on demand (we recommend unplugging!) Some rooms have private balconies with sea views or garden views. All rooms are located very close to the beach and surrounded by nature, with everything within short walking distance to the festival areas. Here you find all the ticket options and prices of the accommodation types.
  • How are beds assigned in shared rooms?
    Bed assignments are first-come, first-served within the selected room category. You can mention the person you would like to share a room with in the payment form. We try to accommodate preferences when possible.
  • Can I bring my own food or supplements?
    Yes, and rooms include a mini-fridge where you can store personal items. If you have special dietary needs, we recommend bringing your essentials. No alcohol or mind-altering substances are allowed, do not bring that.
  • Are there vegan or vegetarian options?
    Yes, every meal includes vegetarian and vegan options.
  • Is there a snack bar or café?
    Yes, there is a coffee shop onsite offering snacks, drinks, and treats outside regular meal times. This is not included in the ticket price.
  • Are meals included?
    Yes. Meals are included in the tickets. The hotel will provide us with 3 varied delicious meals a day. Coffee, tea, and water will be available throughout the day.
  • Will the program be published in advance?
    A preliminary lineup of presenters is available. The full program will be released closer to the event.
  • What kind of workshops and ceremonies will there be?
    Expect a diverse program including intimacy work, shamanic practices, sacred sexuality, temple nights, music, and embodiment workshops. The ISTA Festival offers various highly experienced international presenters and artists from the best this field has to offer. We will continue to grow and update our list of presenters as we continue to build the festival's content. Here you can find all the presenters that are already announced.
  • In what language is the festival held?
    All festival content and workshops are held in English.
  • Do I need ISTA experience to join?
    No, the festival is open to both beginners and experienced participants. No prior ISTA training is required.
  • Do I have to be naked to participate?
    Absolutely not. You are always free to choose what feels right for your body. All expressions are welcome.
  • What should I wear?
    Comfortable, expressive clothing that allows movement is ideal. Bring layers for cool evenings.
  • Is nudity allowed?
    Yes, nudity is welcomed but never required. It’s optional in workshops, at the beach, and in designated areas.
  • Where is nudity accepted and where not?
    Nudity is allowed in workshops, the beach area, and specific zones. In all other public spaces, clothing is required.
  • What are the consent principles at the festival?
    At the ISTA Festival, we create a culture of mutual respect that celebrates our passions, boundaries, and rhythms. During the festival, in any meeting of an intimate nature, you are asked to communicate your desires and boundaries verbally and clearly. Move together only in the directions to which all who participate in the interaction have found their enthusiastic consent.Respond with gratitude when another person says "no", they are taking care of themselves and you. No further explanation is needed. "No" or "no, thank you" can be a complete sentence.Silence, the word "maybe", or any other answer that is not a 'hell yes' should be treated as a "no".
  • Is alcohol or drug use permitted?
    No. To maintain a conscious space, no alcohol or mind-altering substances are allowed.
  • Are there any rules or things that are not allowed?
    Yes. The following are strictly prohibited: alcohol and drug use, bringing pets, fire or grills, and filming/photography without consent.
  • Is there emotional support available?
    Yes. Our "Point of You" space is available 24/7 for emotional support, rest, or quiet reflection.
  • Are there animals on site?
    Yes, the venue has a few friendly resident animals such as cats and a dog.
  • Can I bring my children?
    No, the festival is for adults (21+). Children are not permitted.
  • Are pets allowed?
    No, pets are not allowed. The venue has its own resident animals. Please leave yours at home.
  • How can I apply as a presenter or musician?
    We are open to receiving aligned proposals. Please reach out to istafest.cyprus@gmail.com with your offering and experience.
  • Can I volunteer or assist at the festival?
    Yes, there are limited helper and assistant positions. You can apply through this form.
  • What are the terms & conditions of participation?
    Read our full list of terms and conditions here.
  • How do I pay for my ticket and extras?
    You register and pay the deposit of 350€. Afterwards you receive a confirmation E-Mail with a link where you can complete the rest of the payment (latest until 12th of October) In this mail you will also find the link to book the shuttle service, if you wish to do so.
  • What happens if the festival is postponed or cancelled?
    If postponed, your ticket will be valid for the new dates. If cancelled completely, you’ll receive a full refund excluding the booking fee.
  • When is my place confirmed?
    After you pay the deposit, your spot is provisionally reserved. We encourage you to complete the remaining payment as soon as possible — no later than October 12th. You’ll find the payment link in the confirmation email you receive right after paying the deposit. Once your full payment is complete, you’ll receive your official ticket, and your spot will be fully secured.

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