Akiko’s is like a cocoon from the city life, it is a transformational experience.
Staying a month or longer allows you to integrate into the community and immerse yourself in experiences and practices that you just cannot fit into a week.
Everyone I met during my stay at Akiko’s was on a personal journey of healing and discovering. We came together during community events hosted/organized by Akiko (meditation, yoga, bon dance, community farmers market). But also had plenty of time for self reflections.
The house I stayed in is well kept and cleaned. All guests I’ve encountered have been considerate and cleaned up after themselves.
You don’t have cell reception up here (which I found very liberating) but had internet access to keep working remotely. Akiko recommended get a car for the first few days and the last few days to get acclimated to the island, and it was very helpful. In terms of packing, just bring your basics, you can get everything else from Hilo. Pack some waterproof gear if you have it. Also a good idea to carry cash on you (ATMs are in Hilo), because many vendors at farmers markets and certain services on the island operate cash only.