Vedic Meditation Retreat In the Himalayas

I love Spring!  But wow all its energizing powers can wear you out!  The massive cleaning efforts to freshen-up, the yard work to perk-up and the kids-sports activities to tone-up.   This retreat definitely caught my attention.  Looking out over the Sal forest and Ganga river in India.. definitely makes you stop and smell the roses! 

The Anada Spa has been voted for several years by Conde Nast Traveller as the World's #1 Destination Spa.  Discover Balance

Ananda Spa

Between the silence of the hills & the music of the river

April 20 – 27, 2010
If ever a place was perfect for a Vedic Meditation Retreat, then Ananda is the ideal location. Combining the best of Ayurveda, Yoga and International well-being therapies, steeped in the philosophy of the Vedas, this tranquil resort is known the world over for the nurturing it delivers.

OVERVIEW

Over seven days you will learn the natural, effortless and profound technique of Vedic Meditation - the oldest practice of meditation in the world. Within these few days you will become self sufficient in settling the mind and body to the deepest of levels.

In addition you will have time to relax, be pampered and explore the stunning surroundings nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas.

You will leave refreshed, renewed and equipped with powerful tools to maintain balance and deal with the demands of life.

During seven truly transformational days you will:

• learn the oldest and most researched technique of meditation in the world
• experience levels of rest many times deeper than sleep
• purify your nervous system of deep rooted stress and fatigue
• learn an ancient breathing technique to integrate the mind and body
• be nurtured with Ayurvedic treatments to cleanse and relax
• practise gentle yoga asanas to bring greater balance and strength
• have time to relax by the pool and take in the breathtaking nature of the Sal forests at the doorstep of the Himalayan mountain range
• experience the essence of the Vedic philosophy on the banks of the holy river Ganges
• partake of exquisitely prepared cuisine incorporating the Ayurvedic principles of balanced tastes and the freshest of ingredients
• enjoy the superior service and luxury of one of the world's most exclusive private spas in the beautiful grounds of what was once the residence of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal

What is Vedic Meditation?

The Vedic Meditation Technique is a simple, natural, effortless procedure practised for 20 minutes in the morning and evening, while sitting comfortably with the eyes closed.

 

Vedic Meditation allows the activity of thinking to become increasingly quiet and settled. This process continues until the mind transcends the finest impulse of thought and experiences its quietest, most settled state while alertness is fully maintained. At the same time the body gains a state of very deep rest.

 

Following the practice you feel refreshed mentally and physically - the mind is calmer and more alert, thinking is clearer and energy levels increase. People find they can achieve more with less effort, and that work, recreation and relationships are more rewarding.

ABOUT THE TEACHERS
Jillian Lavender and Michael Miller are independent teachers of Vedic Meditation and co-directors of London Meditation Centre and New York Meditation Center. They work with individuals to maximise performance and achieve success in all areas of their personal and professional life. Jillian and Michael are based in London, U.K and also offer courses and retreats throughout Europe and the U.S

 

Join Me in the Galapagos!

I have been hearing from everyone that they want to go to the Galapagos this year- so why not! I am in!


Okay- With the feedback that I have received, I have researched and researched many ships to charter to the Galapagos, itineraries, pricing, dates, etc. I have decided to charter an incredible Sailboat the M/S Alta named as “Yacht of the Month” by Yachting Magazine! It is a vintage sailboat with all the luxury amenities and we can feel like true pirates—if only Jack Sparrow were aboard!?! Isn’t she incredible! I am so excited! She is 140 ft and holds 16 people and is nimble enough to do the Inner & Outer Islands and at this time of year we can hoist the sails for the majority of the trip! And there is a ton of private space aboard the ship. You can join with the group or find your own sanctuary on one of the many private spaces on deck or on-top of the yacht.

• Alta is ideal for those seeking exclusivity, style and uniqueness. It is very stylish, has exceptional detailing, furnishings, and carries that special romantic charm that can only be found with a sailing ship. Built in Norway, the Alta is one of the finest ships to have graced the waters of the Galapagos. Having previously been named yacht of the month in the past by Yachting Magazine it's no wonder that Alta is a favorite choice for private charters.


• A three-masted staysail schooner, there is nothing that can compare to the feeling of freedom and joy when the engines are turned off, wind hits the sails, and the hull breaks the water. As you gaze off into the waters to see dolphins riding the waves along the bow.


• One of the most beautiful ships in all of Galapagos the interior is finally matched to the beauty of the exterior. The main salon is both elegant and inviting. The curved banquet provides seating for all aboard and it's the perfect meeting spot to enjoy a cold beverage while discussing your next day’s activities with your guide.


• At meal time you will enjoy the finest cuisine at either the elegant dining room with its large picture windows, which seats all 16 and 4 tables or there is the large al fresco dining table on the foredeck. After your meal the best way to relax and take in the scenery is either in one of the lounge chair located on the upper deck forward of the bridge, with cushions on the bow of the yacht at the shade area near the stern.

She includes:
• Snorkeling gear & wetsuits
• Kayaks (Yes one of the few ships that has them- per special request for some See below kayaking with the whales!)
• Dinghies
• 2 landings per day
• Visit both the Inner & Outer Islands- where the large ships cannot go!
• Presentations and Q&A at night with the guides
• Named “Yacht of the Month” with beautiful accommodations and private baths
• Ship has DVD, sound systems to plug in IPods, library, game room, bar, Sun Deck, al fresco dining, etc. I have talked to several people who have recently chartered her with outstanding comments!! Rupert Murdoch is chartering her this Spring.

This first trip is for couples and singles who don’t mind bunking up with a friend! I will be traveling with my "mini-me” but this trip is not really designed for children. If there is enough family interest, I have other dates available for kid/family friendly options with many wonderful and fun activities for everyone!

The feedback that I have received is that around Thanksgiving is preferred to take advantage of the vacation time. So here is what I have!

Cruise dates: (Sat to Sat)- Nov. 27, 2010 to Dec. 4, 2010
(This season is the most active time for the animals so we should see tons of amazing animal life and experiences)

Trip dates: It is necessary to arrive at least 2 days prior to the cruise- so I have planned a wonderful Thanksgiving Feast in Quito at a 400 year old Hacienda! So plan to arrive on Wednesday, Nov. 24th. The extension will include a beautiful boutique hotel in Quito, overnight at the Hacienda and Feast, sightseeing and visiting the Otavalo Highlands for 3 days and the hotel and airport transfers on the return Dec. 4. The price is dependent upon the number of people. If everyone participates (please do, I know from experience- the Andean culture is incredibly moving and you truly will walk away with lifetime memories) it will run about $600/pp. Please note if we have less than 16 the price will increase dependent upon the number of people who attend. I will send a follow-up email with the land portion details.

I am thrilled to offer the below pricing over a holiday! I have negotiated the following which includes
• Galapagos flights from Quito to be included ($425/pp value)
• Park Fee and Transit Card included ($125/pp value)
• Gratuities at $160/pp
• Arrival and Farewell cocktail reception

Cabin Prices (Please refer to Deck Plans)
Cabins 1 & 2: $4,700/pp
Cabins 3,4,5,6,7,8,: $4,500/pp

For those of us that do not have the luxury of many Frequent Flyer miles, airfare from Charlotte is running $642/pp. And $658 from LAX, $442 from New York and only $403 from Miami- wow I need to move either to the snow or sun!!

I will also be including an option extension to Machu Picchu for those interested. If you go all that way you might as well see one of the most fascinating and spiritual wonders of the world! I have been and it is absolutely breathtaking. Pricing will depend on the number of those interested so let me know and I can gather some group rates.

So what I need to know from you is if you are interested!

Since this is a Charter, it is a bit different than a regular tour. It is a commitment to participate in the trip- hence you are taking full responsibility for paying for your cabin price upon deposit (and/or purchasing travel insurance for cancellation protection). Once you sign the agreement and make deposit you have obligated yourself to the full payment. Also, travel insurance is highly recommended for medical evacuation- there are no hospitals in the Galapagos. I can provide you quotes on an individual basis.

Payment details are listed below and as noted above the total cabin price is non-refundable upon deposit.

Feb 26-
For all Cabins- $600/pp deposit payable by check or credit card

May 30
Cabins 1 & 2- $2,050/pp payable by check or credit card
Cabins 3- 8- $1,950/pp payable by check or credit card

July 30
Cabins 1 & 2 $2,050/pp payable only by check
Cabins 3-8 $1,950/pp payable only by check

Extra costs would include if you chose NOT to participate in the Thanksgiving Feast
• Hotel before departure to the Galapagos
• Hotel on the night of departure back to your home country
• The Charter company does require Medical Evacuation insurance

Below is the detailed itinerary for the trip, details on the boat
Yacht: http://www.galapagosexpeditions.com/directsales/yourship/ALTA.pdf

Here is the link to your itinerary Alta: www.galapagosexpeditions.com/directsales/custom_itineraries/Journeys-Alta-Charter-Itinerary.pdf

Category: Luxury
Capacity: 16 guests
Cruise Date with Availability: November 27 to December 4, 2010

Next Steps:
• Thur. Feb. 11 at 7:00 est. Paul Schicke from the Alta Charter Company will host a conference call to answer any questions. Please let me know by Feb. 9 if you are interested and I will send you the conference details.
• Deposit and signed commitment sheets due no later than Feb. 26
• Learn to snorkel and kayak for an adventure of a lifetime!!!!!

Feel free to call me with any questions! 704-898-6229.


Best,
Debbie

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Wow.. it is already that time of year again.. The Holidays!  And right now there are so many wonderful places to go and deal to be had there is no sense in not taking advantage of them!  You name it.. Thanksgiving and parades.. or closer to home for no a no dishwashing holiday :)  Or Christmas with skiing and sleigh rides Or perhaps a New Year celebration in the sunny Caribbean is more your speed.  Well all can be had at incredible prices this holiday. 

I have to mention though my dear friend who owns Wardrobe Wonders.  We are putting together some fabulous shopping trips to NYC and Las Vegas.  If you are interested let me know and we can tailor the expereiences to fit the groups needs.

Happy Holidays!
Debbie

Reviving The Blog

Wow- It has been awhile since I first started this and not much posted there.  That is going to change.  I have lots of exciting travel suggestions, ideas and tips to share.. it is just finding the time!  Travel is my passion and sharing my personal travel experiences, knowledge and what I learn every day through my clients is what I love to do.   So I am renewing my commitment to blogging :)  I am not very good on the technical side so bear with me on the colors, photos etc.  I will get there! (or feel free to advise on how to do those things)

The first thing that comes to mind is Thanksgiving!  Two of my most favorite places for Thanksgiving are:
The Sanctuary and Villas at Kiawah Island, SC
Absolutely Fabulous!  My daughter and I spent Thanksgiving there one year and it was by far the best holiday yet.  Their Thanksgiving meal included incredible choices form the traditional turkey and stuffing with a showstopper whole pig complete with apple to noveau cuisine and wonderfully grilled items outside on the patio.  The Oyster Roast at Mingo Point was truly authentic with firepits and a live band for shag dancing.  My daughter favorite was the child size Gingerbread Houses display in the lobby of the The Sanctuary.

This year they are offering a full schedule of family activities to chose from and if booked through Journeys, Virtuoso amentities are included as well as a special Family Fall Escape that includes all kinds of special perks.  And of course my best friend, Natalie Payne, Director of Sales will make sure all the details will exceed any expectations that you had.  She is the amazing!

My second thought goes to New York City for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade! And the perfect spot is the Mandarin Oriental on Columbus Circle.  Enjoy the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from Mandarin Oriental, New York’s bird’s eye perch 280 feet above the city. With exclusive access to the 6,000 square foot Mandarin Ballroom, featuring panoramic views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline, you’ll be able to watch the parade of colorful floats and balloons travel through Columbus Circle in the comfort of the city’s most luxurious hotel.  In addition, Journeys can offer through Virtuoso a complimentary night with a 3 night stay plus all the Virtuoso amentities!  What a deal! 




 

Outside My Backdoor

Many of you know that I wrote a family travel TV show- Outside My Backdoor! I have been lucky enough to partner with Paul Iacono president of the award-winning production company Lumen Nations Studios and the concept has just been submitted to several cable networks!!! Keep an eye out for us to hopefully soon to be on TV! You never know unless you try!!! I will keep you posted- Check out the link below!
http://www.lumennationstudios.com/Home_Page.html

Affordable Fiji!!

Calling All Those Looking For An Adventurous Island Getaway!

FORBES.com RANKS FIJI IN TOP 15 FOR US TRAVELLERS
Fiji has been rated among the top 15 cheapest countries for American travelers during the current severe recession in the US financial market. "Fiji is one of the many places that is suddenly become more affordable to American travelers" according to America's Forbes.com. A recent 20% devaluation of the Fiji dollar coupled with a 40% gain by the greenback means that $USD100 currently buys $FJD210 on the ground. Tourism Fiji Regional Director Ili Matatolu welcomed the rating and hoped that Americans will take advantage of this opportunity in 2009 and get fantastic deals on Fiji. Any adventurous takers out there!!! !