A short pre-booking message to the host clears up most uncertainties and often catches misalignments before money changes hands.
Questions worth asking
What's a typical day's schedule from morning to evening?
Who else will be on this retreat (group size, demographic, experience level)?
What's the food like — can you accommodate my dietary needs?
What should I bring? What's provided?
How do I get there from [nearest airport]? Are transfers included?
What's the bathroom situation in shared rooms?
Is Wi-Fi available? How strict is the digital-detox policy (if any)?
When to ask
Before you book — once you've read the listing carefully. A pre-booking conversation also gives you a feel for the host's communication style.