UPPER OJAI TRAINING STUDIO

The main location for learning and practicing the deonThai METHOD of Thai Yoga Massage is in the Upper Ojai Valley. It is a quiet and peaceful place situated in Ventura County, California, right next to the Los Padres National Forest, about midway between the quaint agricultural town of Santa Paula to the East and the beautiful little town of Ojai that lies to the West in the Lower Ojai Valley.

The closest swimming hole is less than a 10-minute walk away, in the nearby creek that runs all year round. From here, you can keep on going into the Los Padres National Forest, literally hiking for days on end, backpacking and camping along some of the best wilderness trails you have ever seen.

Along with the resident squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, owls and hawks, we are often honored with visits by deer, coyotes and bobcats. And every now and then a mountain lion or black bear will be spotted somewhere in the vicinity.

The training studio lies on land lush with live oaks, fruit trees, green lawns and a vegetable garden. We also care for a pair of goats, a couple of pigs, a horse, a donkey, a flock of chickens, ducks and guinea fowl, many small dogs, a few cats, and an assortment of turtles and tortoises — always making for a satisfying experience of inter-species bonding and communication.

You will find us about 75 miles northwest of Hollywood, California, after an easy hour and a half drive through the rural countryside. From Los Angeles, the recommended route would be North on the 5 Interstate; then West along Highway 126 to Santa Paula; and then Northwest along Highway 150 to Ojai.

Coming from Santa Barbara, the easiest route would be South on the 101 Freeway and then Northeast on Highway 33, through Ojai.

Please click on this Mapquest link, for more specific directions.

TRANSPORTATION
Shuttle service is available from LAX and Burbank Airports to Ojai, by reservation through:

• Roadrunner Shuttle
  (800) 247-7919
  www.rrshuttle.com/user/Reservation.aspx

ACCOMMODATION
Lodging can be pre-arranged by the deonThai team, for out-of-town participants at the Ventura Ranch KOA Resort, 5 miles from the Upper Ojai Studio. Options include shared accommodation in comfortable cabins or deluxe tipi’s for $45 per night. Please call (323) 610-6000 or email info@deonthaiyoga.com at least 21 days in advance to secure these reservations.

Alternatively, visitors may wish to make their own arrangements and stay at one of the following recommended establishments in Ojai or Santa Paula, listed in order of driving distance from the Upper Ojai Studio.

If needed, daily shuttle service to the Upper Ojai Studio from any of these places can be provided for free.

• The Ojai Foundation ($25 to $95)
  (805) 646-8343 ext 101
  www.ojaifoundation.org/accommodations
  An authentic part of the Upper Ojai experience and one of the more economical lodging options. This magical Retreat Center occupies 40 acres along a ridge of semi-wilderness at the foot of the Topa Topa Mountains. Comfortable accommodations in the form of camping, yurts and domes, less than 2 miles from the Upper Ojai Studio. Ask for the camping options and mention the deonThai METHOD training program in Upper Ojai.
• Dennison Park Campground ($20 per site, per day)
  (800) 255-8175
  portal.countyofventura.org
  This serene, quiet park offers outstanding views of the Ojai Valley. With mature shade trees throughout, large shrubs and numerous campsites located off the main road, you get a feeling of total seclusion in this rustic park, similar to being "out in the woods."
• KOA Ventura Ranch Campsites, Tipis, Lodges ($30 to $90)
  (800) 562-1899
  koa.com
  We are a year-round 76 acre resort nestled in Heritage Valley at the foot of Ventura County’s highest mountains, the Topa Topa. Our guests enjoy clean fresh air as well as a forest setting close to a cascading stream. Lots of wildlife, views, clear star lit nights and, only 15 miles from the ocean. We are just off the scenic highway toward the resort communities of Ojai and Santa Barbara.
• Santa Paula Inn ($89 to $139)
  (805) 933-0011
  www.santapaulainn.com
  This charming Santa Paula bed and breakfast inn is a perfect Southern California getaway lodging. Step outside our front door and walk historic Main Street for delicious food and antiques, gifts and museums. Santa Paula Inn has a unique location near Southern California's golden coast.
• Pepper Tree Retreat ($75 to $150)
  (877) 355-5986
  www.peppertreeretreat.com
  Beautiful and tranquil, philosopher J. Krishnamurti, one of Ojai’s most famous residents, lived here for the last 30 years of his life. Inspired by his penetrating insights into the art of living, it is a true oasis for the mind, body and soul.
• Casa Ojai ($100 to $200)
  (800) 255-8175
  www.ojaiinn.com
  Nestled below the Topa Topa Mountains in Ojai, California and conveniently located near the quaint Ojai Village, across the road from the Soule Park Golf Course. A complimentary expanded continental breakfast is served daily and guests may enjoy a refreshing swim in our Salt-Water pool and Jacuzzi and sunbathing on our spacious sundeck.
• Hummingbird Inn of Ojai ($90 to $180)
  (805) 646-4365
  www.hummingbirdinnofojai.com
  Relaxation and enjoyment are key to our spacious grounds, lawns, and gardens. The pool, spa, and sundeck lounging area are completely enclosed for your safety and privacy. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, and our tea, coffee and hot chocolate each afternoon and evening.
• The Capri ($120 to $200)
  (805) 646-4305
  www.hotelojai.com
  Set in a peaceful and relaxing environment and just a short walk to downtown Ojai our newly renovated motel offers one of the most magnificent views of the Topa Topa Mountains. Guests can relax in the privacy of their own balcony or enjoy the view from the spacious, newly designed lawn and garden area.
• Ojai Rancho Inn ($90 to $200)
  (800) 799-1881
  www.ojairanchoinn.com
  The charming Ojai Rancho Inn, formerly the Rose Garden Inn, is a reflection of Ojai’s relaxed and friendly personality, offering service and amenities that ensure every visit is memorable. Our beautiful property boasts a tranquil garden that adjoins the popular Ojai Valley Trail.



click on images to enlarge


Topa Topa Bluffs Overlooking
the Upper Ojai Valley