Campus FAQ
Questions about our campus or planning your stay with us? Whether you are new to Omega or have been attending for many years, questions often arise about various locations, policies, and procedures. Below is a list of our most frequently asked questions.
Can't find what you're looking for? We’re happy to help. Call us at 877.944.2002.
Hours
Monday-Thursday
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Friday
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Saturday
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Late July through October)
Q: How do I get to Omega?
A: Our Rhinebeck campus is conveniently located about 90 miles north of New York City and the major metropolitan area airports, and about 190 miles west of Boston. Need directions? Traveling by car, bus, train, or plane? See our Travel section for more detailed information. You can also reach out to us at the Main Office at 877.944.2002.
Q: Can I get to Omega using public transportation?
A: Whether traveling by car, bus, train, or plane, it’s easy to got to Omega using public transportation. See our Travel section for more information.
Q: Do you provide shuttle services?
A: See our Travel section, or call Omega’s Registration team at 877.944.2002 to learn more.
Q: Do I need travel insurance?
A: We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance, which insures you against unforeseen sickness, injury, job loss, inclement weather, and more. Rates are available through TravMark's A+ Program Protection Plans. Get a free quote today.
Q: What is the Commuter Fee and what does it cover?
A: Guests who are registered for a program at Omega but choose not to stay on our Rhinebeck campus are required to pay a Commuter Fee. This fee covers 1 delicious lunch per day in our Dining Hall and full access to our campus amenities. Please see Commute for more details.
Q: Is the campus accessible for those with disabilities or limited mobility?
A: Omega's campus is lovely, but it’s also large and hilly. Please contact our Special Needs Coordinator at 845.266.4444, ext. 181 before registering so we may better accommodate you. Wheelchair accessible accommodations are available. We also provide golf cart rides and other assistance.
Q: How do I get my luggage to my room or back to my car when I leave?
A: To minimize points of contact during check-in and check-out, we are encouraging participants to transport their own luggage to and from accommodations, when possible. Please see details at Arrival & Departure.
Q: Do I need to bring cash, or can I use credit cards or checks at Omega?
A: Cash, American Express, MasterCard, Visa, and Discover cards may be used for purchases at the Omega Store, Omega Wellness Center, and the Omega Café. Guest Services accepts cash only for postal, copying, and fax services. There is an ATM located in the Omega Café lobby for your convenience. Omega cannot cash personal checks or give a cash advance on your credit card.
Q: What is Guest Services?
A: Guest Services is located at street level under the Café. Some of the services provided are: directions, fax and copying, first aid, flashlights, local and general information, lost and found, and maintenance and housekeeping requests. See the Guest Services section for more details.
Q: How can I find out what’s happening on campus during my stay?
A: Information kiosks with schedules are conveniently located throughout campus (see Campus Map). Check the kiosks for daily open classes, evening events, and other activity times and locations.
Q: Can I switch my workshop after I arrive?
A: If you start your program and decide it's not for you, you may be able to switch into a different program, pending availability, certain prerequisites, teacher approval, the appropriateness of switching into the program once it has started, and if you request to switch no later than the following deadlines:
- by 9:00 a.m. on Saturday for a weekend workshop
- by 9:00 a.m. on the first full-day of class for a 3-day workshop
- by 9:00 a.m. on the second full-day of class for 4-, 5-, and 7-day workshops
If you switch to a program with higher tuition or additional fees, you are responsible for the difference. If you switch to a program with lower tuition, we are unable to refund the difference. Refunds are not available if you leave a workshop early for any reason. No credit or refund is available if you cancel on the arrival day of your workshop or stay, if you do not show up, or if you leave early for any reason. We strive to program the highest quality instructors; no refund will be given if you attend a program and are dissatisfied with the presentation or content.
Q: Can I use the lake?
A: Yes, please enjoy the lake for boating. No swimming is permitted.
Q: What is the process for Continuing Education Credits?
A: For a full listing of continuing education opportunities, please see our CE chart. You must pre-register for Continuing Education Credit (CEs/CMEs). Please call registration at 877.944.2002 if you have not pre-registered. To receive accreditation, you must attend the course in full, sign in and out each day at your workshop and drop off your (signed) disclaimer form. Within 7-10 business days after your workshop you will receive emailed instructions on how to obtain and download your post workshop evaluation. Upon completion of your online evaluation, you will be able to download your CE/CME Certificate. Failure to submit all paperwork and fees at the conclusion of the workshop will disqualify you from receiving credit.
Q: What if I need emergency assistance, first aid, or medical attention while on campus?
A: Guest Services can assist you with getting medical attention. Also, for 24-hour emergency assistance, there are emergency call boxes at convenient locations around campus. Please see the Campus Map.
Q: Do you offer fax and copying services?
A: Fax and copying services are available at Guest Services for a small fee.
Q: Is there a lost and found?
A: If you think you may have left something behind, please contact Guest Services at 845.266.4444, ext. 125.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: We cannot accommodate pets on our Rhinebeck campus (service pets are welcome). However, there are several Local Hotels and Inns that do accept pets. Please keep in mind that New York’s Hudson Valley is a popular vacation destination. We recommend that you call ahead to make reservations early.
Q: Can I walk or jog on the road?
A: Yes, just keep in mind that Lake Drive (which runs through the center of Omega's Rhinebeck campus) is a public road. Please walk facing traffic, look both ways before crossing, and be mindful of cars.
Q: Is smoking permitted at Omega?
A: Omega's Rhinebeck campus is a nonsmoking facility. Smoking is not allowed on campus, in or near any building or public gathering space.
Q: What about cell phones? Are there any policies around phone use?
A: To uphold the integrity of your experience at Omega and to maintain the restful quality of our campus, we ask that you do not talk on your cell phone in public areas of the campus—including the gardens, Dining Hall, Sanctuary, Ram Dass Library, Omega Store, or near any classrooms. Be sure your phone is turned off or silenced during classroom programs and scheduled campus events (unless otherwise stated). If you must speak on your phone, please do so in a phone booth, or in the main parking lot, and be mindful of your behavior in order to preserve the experience of others. (Also see the Social Media Policy below.)
Q: Do you have Wi-Fi on campus?
A: In some spots, yes. Wi-Fi is free and available in the Omega Café, dorms, A/B cabins, and select classrooms.
Q: What is your Social Media Policy?
A: Please respect the privacy of others when sharing your experience on social media. Recording workshops is prohibited, as is using Omega’s logo without prior written permission.
Q: Can I record my workshop or event?
A: Recording (video or audio) of any workshop or evening event at Omega is not permitted. Please see Social Media Policy above.
Q: Can I receive mail or messages while on campus?
A: Yes. Mail and phone messages are posted on the bulletin board to the left of the door outside Guest Services. Please check the bulletin board daily. We will make every effort to deliver emergency messages by hand to your classroom or lodging. Mail may be addressed as follows:
(Your Name), Guest
Omega Institute
150 Lake Drive
Rhinebeck, NY 12572-3252
Phone messages may be left at 845.256.8144, ext. 190. This voicemail box is checked several times daily. To protect your privacy, we will not confirm your attendance with callers or individuals who ask for you on site.
Q: Do I need to worry about ticks?
A: Ticks are a part of life in our wooded landscape. Check your body carefully for deer ticks (they're much smaller than other kinds of ticks) after being outdoors. Ticks will be easiest to spot against light-colored clothing. Your best protection is to wear long pants, shoes and socks, and long sleeves. Insect repellents are available at the Omega Store. See the information kiosks or Guest Services for more information.
Q: Does Omega provide recycling and conservation services?
A: Omega strives to recycle and conserve resources whenever possible. Please participate in our efforts by conserving water, utilizing the recycling and composting containers conveniently located around campus, and turning off lights and heaters when not in your room.
Q: What is the OCSL?
A: The Omega Center for Sustainable Living (OCSL), located next to the tennis courts, is a state-of-the-art environmental education center and water treatment facility. Tours of the OCSL are available. Please check the information kiosks for scheduling information.
Q: What is the OWLC?
A: The Omega Women’s Leadership Center (OWLC) is catalyzing a new way of envisioning women's leadership and programming upcoming events. Learn more about the OWLC.
Q: How do I apply for a position at Omega?
A: Each year more than 200 people join Omega's Seasonal Staff and Service Corps. Explore the Seasonal Staff and Service Opportunities Section, or email us at [email protected] for an information packet and application, or explore our Job Postings for year-round opportunities.
Accommodations FAQ
Omega lodgings can sell out quickly. Please keep in mind that weekends are a busy time in the Hudson Valley. We encourage you to plan ahead in making any reservations.
Q: What does the All-Inclusive Stay include?
A: The All-Inclusive Stay is per person and includes lodging, 3 meals per day in our Dining Hall, and an array of activities during your stay with us. You can explore daily open classes in yoga, tai chi, and meditation; evening events; canoeing and kayaking; basketball and tennis; and nature trails. You also have access to the Ram Dass Library, Sanctuary, Omega Center for Sustainable Living (OCSL), and more.
Q: Do you have single rooms?
A: We have private rooms with private baths, and private rooms with shared baths. Our Dorm Singles are private rooms with shared baths. For complete lodging descriptions, please see Sleep.
Q: Can you describe your accommodations?
A: Omega accommodations are rustic, simple, and comfortable. Linens are provided for the Cabin Rooms, but not for the Dorm or Tent Cabins. For complete lodging descriptions, please see Sleep.
Q: Can I arrive a day early or stay a day late?
A: If you'd like to extend your stay with us, we suggest that you consider adding an Omega R&R Getaway Retreat (2 night minimum) onto your stay. Please keep in mind that our accommodations are limited. It is best to contact us 2 weeks before your arrival date so we can do our best to accommodate you. But, please don't hesitate to call us anytime; we may have space available.
Q: Can I bring my children?
A: Please call us at 877.944.2002 for information on children's accommodations.
Q: Is there electricity in the Tent Cabins?
A: Yes, Tent Cabins have electricity and include a small table lamp. There is no heat in the Tent Cabins; but please do not bring heaters. You are welcome to bring a fan in the warm months.
Q: Should I bring a heater or fan?
A: There is no need to bring a heater or fan. With the exception of Tent Cabins, all rooms are heated and have either a ceiling fan, table fan, or standing fan.
Q: How much does it cost to rent linens?
A: A "Dorm Kit" containing sheets and towels is available for $8.00. Payment is due upon arrival.
Q: Can I bring my RV?
A: Omega cannot accommodate RVs on campus. However, there are several RV parks nearby. Call us at 877.944.2002 for more information.
Q: What is the Commuter Fee?
A: The Commuter Fee covers 1 delicious lunch per day in our Dining Hall and full access to our campus amenities. See Commute for more information.
Q: What if I still have questions about my accommodations?
A: Please reach out to us at the Main Office at 877.944.2002:
Hours
Monday-Thursday
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Friday
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Saturday
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Late July through October)
Dining & Food FAQ
Omega’s Dining Hall offers vegetarian and vegan options at every meal, as well as nondairy, wheat-free, gluten-free, and soy-free options.
For more information, see Meals.
Q: Why do you serve mostly vegetarian food in your Dining Hall?
A: A primarily vegetarian diet fulfills one of Omega's core values—sustainability. Vegetarianism consumes fewer resources and leaves a smaller carbon footprint than a heavily meat-based diet.
Q: What if I have food allergies?
A: As a full food-service operation serving around 1,800 people a day, we are unable to guarantee any dish to be free of food allergens, although we do our best. For those with severe food allergies (peanuts, soy, dairy, etc.), please contact our Special Needs Coordinator at 845.266.4444, ext. 181.
Q: What if I am sensitive to gluten?
A: Guests with gluten sensitivities will find many gluten-free options at Omega. The Omega Essentials Bar, Salad Bar, and main dishes regularly contain gluten-free options—and there are always gluten-free breads at the north side Bread Bar. At breakfast, we provide gluten-free cold cereal. Condiments like tamari and miso are also gluten-free.
Q: Can Omega cook something special for me? Or can I bring my own food?
A: We are not able to cook specifically for individual guests, but we offer 24-hour access to a shared Guest Kitchenette Space (used by guests and Omega’s seasonal staff), where you will find a microwave, sink, and a guest-only refrigerator and freezer. You are invited to bring any supplemental foods with you that you may need.
Q: What if I have other concerns?
A: Please contact our Special Needs Coordinator at 845.266.4444, ext. 181 if you have any dietary restrictions, mobility or activity limitations, allergies, etc. The more we know about mobility or dietary needs before your arrival, the more we can strive to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Q: What if I have dietary restrictions that weren’t addressed here?
A: Please contact our Special Needs Coordinator at 845.266.4444, ext. 181 before your arrival so we can discuss all your options.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Omega reserves the right to cancel a program at any time. If Omega cancels a program, you will receive a full refund. Some programs may have special cancellation policies; see individual workshop descriptions.
Unless otherwise stated within program descriptions:
Refunds are available (less a $55 processing fee) up to eight days before your program or stay.
Nonrefundable credit toward a future Omega program or stay (less a $55 processing fee) is available if you give notice between seven and one day(s) before your program or stay. Credit may be applied to any Omega program or stay.
No credit or refund is available if you cancel on the arrival day; if you do not show up; or if you leave an event early for any reason. No refund will be available if you attend a program and are dissatisfied with its presentation or content.
For online learning programs, please see cancellation information on individual workshop pages.