I organized a dream retreat in Nosara. On day 3, a student slipped on the wet tile by the pool and broke her leg. The Costa Rican hospital demanded cash. She sued me back in the US for “Negligent Selection of Venue.” My US yoga policy denied the claim because the accident happened outside the “Coverage Territory.”
Key Takeaways
- Coverage Territory: Standard US policies only cover lawsuits brought in the US for work done in the US. They do not cover operations in Costa Rica.
- Travel Agents E&O: By booking the hotel and transport, you acted as a “Travel Agent.” You need specific E&O for that.
- Jurisdiction: The student is American; they will sue you in America. You need a policy with “Worldwide Coverage” for suits brought in the US.
- Participant Accident Insurance: Buy a separate policy that pays medical bills for students abroad so they don’t have to sue you.
The “Why”: The Territory Clause
The Trap:
Look at your Declarations Page under “Coverage Territory.”
It likely says: “The United States of America, its territories and possessions, Puerto Rico, and Canada.”
If you teach a Down Dog in Costa Rica, you are uninsured.
You need a “Worldwide Coverage” extension.
The Investigation: I Quoted 3 Major Carriers
1. Trawick International
- My Analysis: They offer specific “Tour Operator / Retreat Leader” insurance. This covers the liability of the trip itself (bus crashes, hotel slips).
2. beYogi
- My Analysis: They confirm their policy covers you teaching worldwide, provided the suit is brought in the US. But it does not cover the liability of you acting as a travel agent (booking the van).
3. Clements Worldwide
- My Analysis: The heavy hitter for expats and international business. If you run retreats annually, get a policy from them.
[IMAGE: Map showing “Coverage Zone” vs “Excluded Zone”]
Comparison Table: Retreat Liability
| Carrier | Covers Teaching Abroad? | Covers Travel Logistics? | Medical Evac? |
| beYogi | Yes | No | No |
| Trawick | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Clements | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Buy Travel Insurance: Mandate that every student buys their own travel insurance.
- Liability Release: The waiver must specifically mention “International Travel Risks.”
- Check Territory: Call your agent. “Does this cover me in Costa Rica?”
- Don’t Be a Travel Agent: Have the students book their own flights. Limit your liability to the yoga classes only.
FAQ
What if the hotel was negligent?
You can still be sued for “Negligent Selection.” You picked the hotel.
Does my credit card cover this?
No.
Do I need a permit in Costa Rica?
Maybe. Check local laws. Illegal work can void insurance.