Tour operated in cooperation with B’e Q’ij

Tikal, Guatemala

June 13 – June 22, 2012

In this journey we will flow with the energies of the Sacred Cholq’ij calendar, which will guide us to learn about Mayan culture and our personal development. We will use the energy of the Solstice to walk towards a state of aware evolution. During a Solstice we are open to perceive the positive energies and to connect with the cosmos, thus activating our personal energy and awakening our inner powers.

Solstices and Equinoxes are astronomic events of great relevance to Mayan people, for they mark the change of season, and if we are aware of these changes we will be able to vibrate at the same rhythm of Mother Earth and the Cosmos.

Hosted by Lina Barrios and Yamanik Pablo

About Lina Barrios: Lina is an anthropologist and a Maya Ajq’ij ─ Maya Spiritual Guide ─ who, according to this millenary tradition, has reached the age of wisdom, becoming an elder. For nearly 25 years she has worked tirelessly for the preservation of traditional Mayan    languages, women’s rights, dress, culture and spirituality. She is also a published author  ─ winner of the “Premio Iberoamericano Villa de Madrid” prize ─ and a university professor. Lina has visited more than 40 ancient Maya cities, Tab’aleb’ ─sacred altars─ and traditional communities. Her experience, both as a professional and as an Ajq’ij, make her the perfect person to lead people into the world of Maya spirituality.

About Yamanik Pablo: Yamanik is a young Ajq’ij ─ Maya Spiritual Guide ─ of the Xolmulmus tradition. She received the mission of becoming a Chuchqajaw Rech Tinamit ─ spiritual guide whose commitment is to watch over the wellbeing of her people─, mission in which she is following the footsteps of her spiritual teacher. She has developed the gift of Kab’Tzij, to speak with such kindness that her words heal and comfort the spirit. Yamanik comes from a lineage of Maya Spiritual Guides and she has been part of Maya Spirituality since the day she was born.

About Denise Barrios: Following the footsteps of her father, Denise started her spiritual path as an Ajq’ij at the age of 15, when she began traveling frequently to highlands of Guatemala to learn about Maya culture from the elders. She is the author of the book “The Energies of the Day” which is a daily guide to the energies of the Sacred Cholq’ij Calendar. In addition to speaking Spanish and English, Denise understands the essence of Maya culture, which makes the perfect translator for Lina and Yamanik.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Wednesday, June 13

Maya Date: 8 Toj, which is the day in which practice gratefulness. To flow with energy of the day we will raise a prayer to thank the Ajaw (Creator) for everything he has given us throughout life and for granting us the opportunity of experiencing this journey together.

Arrival to La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City

Ground transportation to Antigua Guatemala, where we´ll have a welcome dinner

Accommodation at Antigua Guatemala at Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo

Antigua Guatemala

Day 2: Thursday, June 14

Maya Date: 9 Tz’i’, this nawal represents justice and truth. We will use its energy to have a truthful approach to Maya culture and to the prophecy of 2012.

Today we will visit Casa K’ojom, which is a museum of Mayan instruments and music, here Lina will give a talk to the group about “Maya Cosmovision and the Oxlajuj Baktun-2012, the Beginning of a New Cycle” we will also talk about the purpose of this spiritual journey.

Then we will have a guided visit to the museum, where we will learn about ancient Maya music and the way in which the different Maya communities live, this will be the perfect introduction to understand the living Maya culture we will see during the journey. After lunch we will leave to Quetzaltenango, where we will spend the night at Hotel Pensión Bonifaz.

Museum Casa K’ojom

Day 3: Friday, June 15

Maya Date: 10 B’atz’ is the day of love and art. Today we will connect with the energy of art through the art of weaving, dancing and through culinary art. While raising our prayers we will focus on the energy of love.

After breakfast we will have an introductory talk about Zunil, the importance of the market and the Ri Laj Mam, his story and significance.

Early departure to Zunil where we will get to see the market, which is one of the largest vegetable and fruit markets of America. Then we will visit the Ri Laj Mam, he is a Native American Saint who is known to be the protector of the Maya people. Here we will have a ritual with candles to ask the Ri Laj Mam for his protection and for his help in whatever we need, we will specially focus in love, which is represented by B’atz’, the energy of the day. Then we will return to Quetzaltenango where a Maya woman will give us a guided visit to the Ixkik Museum of Maya Textiles, explaining the spiritual meaning of the weavings in the costumes of different towns of Guatemala. This will be followed by a traditional Maya dance preformed by Jun Chowen, a dance group conformed by young Mayans, finally we will share a traditional Maya dinner. We will spend the night in Quetzaltenango at Hotel Pensión Bonifaz

Dancers, Jun Chowen Dance Group

Day 4: Saturday, June 16

Maya Date: 11 E symbolizes spiritual and material paths of life. Today we will walk to a sacred altar, opening a path to connect with the cosmic and telluric energies.

After breakfast we will have an introductory talk about sacred altars, specially the one we will visit today, and the Sacred Fire Ceremony.

Early departure San Martin Chile Verde to visit Chi’kabal Lagoon, which is a very powerful and important sacred altar; here we will offer a Sacred Fire Ceremony, our focus will be on asking the energies to guide us toward the path that can help us fulfill our intentions and accomplish our mission in life. Then we will go back to Quetzaltenango, where we will spend the night at Hotel Pensión Bonifaz.

Chi’kabal Lagoon

Day 5: Sunday, June 17

Maya Date: 12 Aj is the nawal that represents the pillars of inner strength and spiritual power. In Chichicastenango we will visit the Cofradía, which has been the pillar of strength that has kept Maya spirituality alive.

Today we will have an introductory talk about religious syncretism and the meaning and importance of the Cofradía ─ brotherhood.

Departure to Chichicastenango where we will visit the Catholic-Maya church. Then you will have some time to buy souvenirs at Chichicastenango’s famous crafts market. After lunch we will visit the Cofradía of Santo Tomas, where we will share time with the Cofrades.

Afterwards we will go to Panajachel where we will spend the night at Hotel San Buenaventura.

Santo Tomas Church, Chichicastenango

 Day 6: Monday, June 18

Maya Date: 13 I’x is the mother, the wife and mother earth, it represents the mystical feminine energy and the power to expand our mind. On this day we will visit a medicine woman to learn from her the properties of medicinal plants.

Leave in the morning by boat to San Juan la Laguna, where we will visit a Maya medicine woman who will teach us about medicinal herbs, then we will go back to Panajachel where Lina will give us a talk about Maya Medicine, Healing and the use of the Chuj ─ Sauna.

After the talk people who want will have time to use the Chuj. We will spend the night in Panajachel at Hotel San Buenaventura.

Day 7: Tuesday, June 19

Maya Date: 1 Tz’ikin which is the energy of prosperity and abundance. Today we will learn secrets to obtain abundance in every aspect of our life.

In the morning we will have a talk about “Ancient Rituals Performed During the Solstice” and then we will learn techniques to attract abundance to our life. After the talk you will have some leisure time to relax and explore. Late in the afternoon we will depart to Guatemala City where we will spend the night at Radisson Hotel and Suites.

Panajachel, Lake Atitlán

Day 8: Wednesday, June 20

Maya Date: 2 Ajmaq is the energy of forgiveness and the thirst for knowledge and experience; we will flow with the energy of Ajmaq by offering a Sacred Fire Ceremony to reconcile with the Ajaw ─Creator─ and to open to the wisdom of the Elders. We will also work the Solstice rituals.

Early flight to Flores, Petén where we’ll get ground transportation to Tikal.

In the morning we will have a guided visit to Tikal “The City of the Eternal Voices”, which is one of the largest cities of the classic period. In the afternoon we will offer a Sacred Fire Ceremony at the Main Plaza in the presence of the Sun and Moon pyramids. We will spend the night in Tikal at Hotel Jungle Lodge.

Main Plaza, Tikal

 Day 9: Thursday, June 21

Maya Date: 3 N’oj, this nawal transforms our knowledge and experience into wisdom and spiritual understanding. Today we will use the energy of the sunrise to awaken our inner powers and wisdom, using the energy of the Solstice.

We will walk to temple IV before dawn, here we will receive Father Sun and recharge with his energy. We will have an inner harmonization with the energies of the Cosmos and Mother Earth; this will be a moment of silent encounter with ourselves. In the afternoon we will depart to Flores to take the flight back to Guatemala City, where we will have a farewell dinner. Accommodation in Guatemala City at Radisson Hotel and Suites.

View from temple IV, Tikal

Day 10: Friday, June 22

Maya Date: 4 Tijax symbolizes the double-edged obsidian knife which grants you the magic to transform everything the things that want to change and to open up new paths that will get you closer to your purpose in life. This is a great day to use the knowledge you obtained to start walking new tracks.

Transportation to La Aurora International Airport to take your flight back home.

Tour Price Includes:

• 9 nights hotel accommodation at above mentioned hotels
• Ground transportation throughout the tour
• Boat to San Juan la Laguna
• Air ticket Guatemala City – Flores – Guatemala City
• Breakfast every day
• Admission to the ancient sacred sites and museums per itinerary
• Private presentation of the Jun Chowen Dance Group
• Ceremonies
• Talks
• Donations to the Cofrades, Ri Laj Mam and Medicine Woman
• Time at the Temascal
• Spanish – English Interpreter
• Welcome dinner
• Traditional Maya dinner
• Farewell dinner

Not included:

• International flight to Guatemala
• Lunches and dinners other than the ones above mentioned
• Extras at meals
• Mini bar, phone calls and other additional services at hotels
• Tips to drivers and guides

Please Note: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond our control. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Some inclusions may not be available on indicated dates and dates may have to be adjusted. Listed local hosts and guides are subject to availability, when the local guide is not available we will provide a comparable and experienced substitute. Hotels are subject to change if there is no availability, if changed we will provide a hotel of the same quality.

Please read the Terms and Conditions for this tour.

Travel Insurance

Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Travel Insurance.

If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

TOUR PRICES:
** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

Tour – Per Person, double occupancy:

$2,599 payments via check or money order
$2,735 payments via credit card

Single room supplement:

$289 payments via check or money order
$304 payments via credit card

Double occupancy: We will be happy to try to find a roommate for those who are traveling alone and would like to share a room. However, if we are not able to match you with a roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this process.

Please note: The above price for the tour is based upon a minimum participation of six passengers and a maximum number of eight. Should the total number of passengers fall below six, this tour may be cancelled.

For Flight Assistance and Ticketing, call: 631-624-7612
or email horst@rmctravelight.com

HOTEL POSADA DE DON RODRIGO, ANTIGUA GUATEMALA

Posada de Don Rodrigo is located a couple of blocks from Antigua’s central park in a colonial and antique home.

HOTEL PENSION BONIFAZ, QUETZALTENANGO

This colonial hotel was founded in 1935, it is located across Quetzaltenango’s central park; Pension Bonifaz is one of the best hotels in town.

HOTEL SAN BUENAVENTURA DE ATITLAN, PANAJACHEL

This beautiful hotel is located at the Valley of San Buenaventura, which used to be an Ancient Maya Village and it now home to a natural reserve. Being a lake front property, San Buenaventura is one of the only hotels in Panajachel with a private beach.

RADISSON HOTEL AND SUITES

Located in Guatemala City’s “lively zone”, Radisson is the perfect place to rest.

JUNGLE LODGE

Located on Tikal’s National Park in the midst of the luscious humid tropical forest of Petén, at a 10 minute walk from the ceremonial center of Tikal, the Jungle Lodge offers a comfortable and spectacular environment.

Tibetan Path in India Tour and Retreat

Tour operated in cooperation with Spiritual Backpackers Tours

June 5 – 21, 2012

High in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas is a small town called McLeod Ganj that is home to the most famous refugee in the world, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Since the cultural revolution in Tibet, thousands of Tibetans have arrived in this Indian town more widely known as Dharamsala, bringing with them all the sacred wisdom and teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. People travel from all over the world to this place, surpassing many obstacles along the way, all for the once in a lifetime chance to see His Holiness and learn from him. On this tour we are opening the gateway to just that. The hosts are a Tibetan Lama named Buga and Lisa Tully, who is originally from Ireland. They will take you to McLeod Ganj, India to attend public teachings by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, learn Buddhist meditation from teachers of his lineage and hang out with his local Tibetan family.

Attending the public teachings by His Holiness will afford you the opportunity to experience the immense power of this man’s heart. He refers to himself as ‘a simple monk’ but rest assured this is a typically Tibetan, understatement. Although His Holiness tirelessly travels the globe reaching out to as many ‘brothers and sisters’ as possible, the authenticity of seeing him reach out to his own people in his home temple is a totally different experience. For example looking around you will see devotees falling into deep states of meditation simply by being in his presence. People bursting into tears at the mere sight of him as he gentle opens hearts that little bit wider. As the saying goes “a broken heart is an open heart.”

Our meditation retreat is a 10-day silent retreat run by the internationally renowned Tushita Meditation Centre. Nestled high in the forests far away from any hustle and bustle, this welcoming haven is perfect for those who want to get away so they can go in and explore their true nature. A serious retreat that will provide the tools needed to begin or enhance a daily meditation practice. A chance to learn more about Tibetan Buddhism and harness some of its benefits for yourself and the people you share your life with by bringing home the souvenir of greater peace, love and compassion.

McLeod Ganj is also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ as it is filled to the brim with Tibetan lamas, monks and nuns meditating for the benefit of all sentient beings in the many monasteries, nunneries and secluded retreats scattered around the hilltops. Simply by being in this location, visitors are benefiting on many levels as the vibration of this sacred place is so high. It provides the perfect setting to embark on a lifetime’s journey of meditation and spiritual growth.

For those looking to join a family that takes you to your inner places less traveled, we are only delighted to welcome you into the our fold!

Day 1 – Tuesday, June 5
We greet you at Delhi airport then transfer you to the Tibetan quarter of Delhi, Majnu Ka Tilla.  As you whiz your way across Delhi you will get to experience the Indian way of life that is totally unique! If you fancy it you will then have the opportunity to explore the many alleyways and temples of the welcoming Tibetan maze that is Majnu Ka Tilla.

Day 2 – Wednesday, June 6
Early morning drive to McLeod Ganj, the scenic town that rests in the foothills of the Himalayas.  This is the home to the Dalai Lama in exile and is also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ . We will reside in that general area for the duration of our tour. Believe us when we say you won’t want to leave! We travel up there by private transfer (approx 12 hours), then check into our hotel.  If you would prefer you can also fly from Delhi to Dharamsala and meet us when we get there, it is a one hour flight.

Day 3 – Thursday, June 7
Attend teachings by His Holiness 14^th Dalai Lama on Introductory Buddhist Teachings amongst nuns, monks and devotees from all over the world. We then have a relaxed McLeod Ganj orientation as Lama Buga and Lama Kalden show us the town from their ‘monastic’ eyes. That evening you might just want to meditate and soak it all up while His Holiness is residing only ten minutes down the road.

Day 4 – Friday, June 8
Second day of teachings by His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama on Introductory Buddhist Teachings. The good news is once we have saved our spot we keep it for the whole teaching, it’s the local rule of thumb.

Day 5 – Saturday, June 9
Final day of teachings by His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama on Introductory Buddhist Teachings. That evening we will attend our own private Green Tara puja held for us by our dear friends the tantric lamas from Gyumed Monastery.  Green Tara is particularly helpful for any areas of your life you need swift action in so come with your intentions prepared!

Day 6 – Sunday, June 10
Full day at leisure.  There is tons to do in the wonderful Dharamsala and we have many suggestions to share.  Or you may just want to take it easy and soak up the relaxed vibes of our dear lamas as you simply spend time.

Day 7 – Monday, June 11
Many Tibetan children are sent to India by their parents to receive an authentic Tibetan education and up bringing. Unfortunately many parents don’t have the means to come with them.  The Tibetan Children’s’ Village was set up by the Dalai Lama’s sister to care for these children so their parents’ wishes could become a reality.  We will take an early morning stroll up the hillside to visit one of these heart-warming schools.  Then we check out of hotel and transfer by local taxi to the nearby peaceful Buddhist meditation centre up in the hills of McLeod Ganj. This place is quiet, surrounded by trees and hillside views with Buddhist stupas scattered about the grounds for you to stumble upon as you take a stroll. We commence our 10-day Introduction to Buddhism meditation retreat.

Days 8 – 15 – Tuesday, June 12 through Tuesday, June 19
Introduction to Buddhism silent meditation retreat. Yes we did say silent, are you ready to go inside?

Day 16 – Wednesday, June 20
Final day of retreat. Check out between 1pm and 3pm.  Transfer by local taxi to McLeod Ganj town centre. Even the town centre has beautiful buildings such as the temple seen here in this photo. That afternoon Lama Buga & Lama Kalden will take us to do a prayer flag puja. This involves writing names on prayer flags and hanging them in auspicious places which is believed to blow all fears away. The perfect ending to a heart-warming trip!  That evening we drive back down to Delhi by private transfer (approx 10 hours).

Day 17 – Thursday, June 21
Exchange details with your new global family and then transfers for onward travel.

“Do not wait! Take the next flight to Dharamsala :). We all get so caught up in our careers, families, responsibilities that we forget about ourselves. This tour will allow you some “me” time to find the real “you” and the answers to your questions. I cannot stress enough the benefits you will discover at the end of your trip!”- Sonia, USA

Keep in mind: The planning of these tours depend on the teaching schedule of both His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama and the Tushita Meditation Centre. We plan as far ahead as all schedules allow and we do appreciate your patience on this.

Please read the Terms and Conditions for this tour.

Travel Insurance

Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Travel Insurance.

If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

TOUR PRICES:
** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

$2,799 payments via check or money order
$2,946 payments via credit card

Price is per person for single and dorm occupancy. Dorm is on the retreat.

A deposit of $300 is required. Full payment is due not less than 56 days prior to your tour start date. When bookings are made less than 56 days before the tour start date full payment must be made when booking.

A cancellation by you must be advised to us in writing. If a booking is cancelled we reserve the right to apply cancellation charges as follows:

• Up to 60 days prior to tour date: Initial deposit amount
• 25 to 59 days prior to tour date: 50% of total cost
• 14 to 24 days prior to tour date: 75% of total cost
• 1 to 13 days prior to tour date: 100% of total cost

If a trip is cancelled more than 56 days before the tour start date we will happily refund all the money you have paid except for a $100 processing fee.

Cost Includes

•  English speaking host for duration of trip
• Transfers to and from Delhi international airport
• Transfers from Delhi to McLeod Ganj and back to Delhi
• Transfers from McLeod Ganj to Buddhist Meditation Centre and back
• 2 nights accommodation in Delhi (standard is budget so may or may not have a private bathroom depending on availability)
• 6 nights single occupancy accommodation in McLeod Ganj (standard is budget so may or may not have a private bathroom depending on availability)
• 10 nights dormitory accommodation at the Tushita Meditation Centre
• Suggested donations by Buddhist Meditation Center to cover cost of dorm accommodation and food. The food provided is dinner on day 1, 3 meals day 2 to 9, and breakfast and picnic lunch on day 10 of the retreat

Cost excludes

• Personal expenses
• Visa and passport fees
• Travel insurance
• International & domestic flights
• Train fares
• Airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage unless specified
• Meals other than those specified
• Optional activities and sightseeing
• Tips

Click for More Buddhist Meditation Retreat Details

Lama Buga, Lisa Tully, Lama Kalden

Lisa Tully
Feeling miffed at corporate life and all it’s samsara trappings Lisa handed in her notice. Money was tight, people were pessimistic but her heart was smiling. For she had a deep calling to go to India and the money for a ticket fast burning a hole in her pocket.

Originally she was meant to go with a group of friends but as many group emails went by, the thoughts of sipping cool drinks on a beach in a posh resort just didn’t cut it as a dream trip to India.  So she decided to go solo instead of team, north instead of south and Tibetan instead of Indian. A public teaching by His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama was the entire basis for the trip, little did she realise that would be just one of the highlights amongst many others.

Although it is well believed that His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama lives in Dharamsala he actually resides further up the hill in a wonderful town called McLeod Ganj.

On arrival in McLeod Ganj Lisa quickly found herself blissfully immersed in the world of his family of Tibetan monks and nuns.  And that was it, the entire trip was a mixture of immense teachings, spectacular Himalayan scenery, tasty Tibetan momos, profound meditations and discoveries of all the local best bits through the eyes of dedicated maroon clad friends.

On returning back to Europe from this incredible trip she found it difficult to settle back into the spiritual poverty of the west for so much had changed inside her. So after witnessing the stress and anguish of her Western brothers and sisters with new eyes she decided more people needed to experience what she experienced. After all how much better would the world be if we all recognised the bank of spiritual wealth that is deep inside each and everyone of us? And as she learned from first hand experience one sure fire way to do that is to go and immerse yourself in the Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle and learn meditations that will be with you for this lifetime and the next.

Lama Buga
Whilst in India, the first person to greet Lisa in McLeod Ganj was her now dear friend Lama Buga. He is a Buddhist monk from Gyumed Tantric Monastery in South India and has been one since the age of 6. He is originally from Tibet but fled to India after the cultural revolution.

Part of his role as a monk is that he can be placed by his monastery to do work in specific centres around India. As a result he has spent three years in McLeod Ganj, two of those were at the Buddhist meditation centre where we take our groups for retreats and also two years in Delhi hence his nickname ‘monk about town’. With all his contacts, local knowledge and Buddhist training Buga is the man on the ground in India taking care of the finer details so you can just soak it all up.

Lama Kalden
Then there is our second Tibetan host, the wonderful Lama Kalden.  Also a member of Gyumed monastery he too became a trusted friend of Lisa’s.  With a good level of English Lama Kalden ensures you have a real insiders view of what is going on around you and with a heart of gold he takes great care of everyone!

Extra info:
We also run these tours to support the Tibetan people. By bringing more people to Dharamsala we are raising awareness about this silent genocide, by donating 10% of our profits to TCV we are helping to feed and educate Tibetan children and by using mainly Tibetan services we are bringing work to the Tibetan people in exile that support their families and culture both inside and outside of Tibet. And by signing up to our tour you too will be contributing to the cause.

Our gift to you…Whilst doing research on all things Tibetan our host Lisa came across the wonderful book ‘For Tibet, With Love’ by bestselling international author Isabel Losada. This is a funny moving tale of Isabel’s journey to help Tibet. Along the way she falls for a monk in Nepal, upsets BP, faces some hard truths, irritates the Chinese Ambassador, listens to Mahatma Gandhi, captures headlines worldwide and then…she meets the Dalai Lama. Struck by the strong message in this fantastic book that gives any reader a clear understanding of the current plight of the Tibetans and the similarities is has to the experiences our tours bring, Lisa got in touch with Isabel to explore a collaboration. The result is that everyone who comes on our tours gets a free copy of this book. The challenge is once you have read it to pass it on to someone you know who is most likely to do something to help this cause or come on one of our tours. Either way we collectively raise more awareness for Tibet.

“Lisa’s Spiritual Backpacker’s trip to Dharamsala sounds wonderful. She’s done all the hard work for you – found the hotels and even worked out when His Holiness is teaching. If I’d known her when I wrote ‘For Tibet, With Love’ my life would have been very much easier. Go with her – but the bus ride is still terrible.”
- Isabel Losada

For Flight Assistance and Ticketing, call: 631-624-7612
or email horst@rmctravelight.com

Tour operated in cooperation with Nordic Light Tours

Sater silver mine, Stockholm, a magic place

May 5 – 14, 2013

This journey is not only a physical journey, it´s also an inner journey. When we visit the activation points of the Mother Earth which also are connected to the Universe, you expand the energy of you – the master you are in the time of present.

There is nothing to reach for anymore, no Earth to save. The Earth is fine. And the focus lands back on you. When you see the master in you – everything is perfect.

You are aware and transformed and you will integrate that, with meditations, ceremonies and spiritual exercises. The energy work looks different at these times, lets call it masterwork. It´s no longer from an outside force – you are the force, the unconditional love and the flow of live.

Hosted by Annica Frantz & Annalena Mellblom

About Annica Frantz: Annica has experienced psychic ability since childhood. She works as a past life therapist, psychic and healer. She is an inspiring course leader in psychic development and self development. As an author and creator of best-selling self development CDs, she has many years of experience traveling the world doing spiritual work and visiting power places. On her last trip to Peru, the shamans made her a representative of their wisdom, and appointed her as a shaman. She believes every person has access to the power within themselves and that each one of us is a master.

About Annalena Mellblom: Annalena is one of Sweden’s most well known people in the fields of self development and psychic development. She has had much exposure on TV and radio. She is an author about hypnotherapy and self development. Educated in London and Sweden, she is a stand for peoples’ greatness and like a master. She leads people to live in freedom and living a life they love. Annalena and Annica are a great team and have been working together since 2007.

Day 1: Sunday, May 5
Arrive to Arlanda airport, Stockholm. Check in at the hotel.

Day 2: Monday, May 6
Travel by bus from Stockholm at 9 am. Going to Uppsala Hågaby.
This is a power place with very strong energies. And the King bear hill is from 1200 – 900 before Christ.
Group meditation in the stone setting. And a visit to the Häll coffin and the ancient gravefield.
We will do masterwork at the place of the old cult house which is an old place for rituals.
Spending the night by Stabbyvillage and the Old town of Uppsala where many ley lines are crossing over.

Day 3: Tuesday, May 7
Leaving Uppsala at 9 am. Two hour drive to Säter and the energy places by the silver mine. We will have our lunch here.
One and a half hour to go to Borlänge and our hotell for the night. We visit Frostbrunnsdalen valley that is a major power place and that used to be a place for offering to the Nordic God Frej. We will do masterwork at the Trinity well that was used to do cleansing moon rituals. We visit the old Domarringen  that still lays on the place.

Day 4: Wednesday, May 8
Leaving Borlänge at 9 am. And travel one hour to Styggforsen and Boda church village. Visit to the limestone quarry.
Spending the night by the lake Siljan. This lake was created out of that big hole that was left from a huge natual disaster that happened about 360 million years ago. A celestial body fell on Earth and created a crater that is called Siljansringen. This is one out of four, known places on our planet that has asteroids underneath the ground and has an impact on the law of gravitation. We will do masterwork on more than one of these very special powerplaces that are in this area.

Day 5: Thursday, May 9
We have many places to explore in this area. The forest of Styggforsen. A wonderful waterfall that is a magic place that has many different kinds of nature spirits. Starting the New moon ceremony.

Day 6: Friday, May 10
A day of to relax on your on in this peaceful forest and beautiful nature. Completing the New moon ceremony.

Day 7: Saturday, May 11
We leave at 9 am to go to Västerås (3 hour journey) and Aros. We´ll have lunch here. In the afternoon we´ll visit many different power places. One of Sweden’s largest graves it´s 60 by 60 meters wide. Next to this ancient grave are two large stone ships with very strong power. One of them has 24 large standing stones. These together measure one hundred meters. There is also plenty of small graves and ship stones from the times of the vikings. This place has been used for ceremonies and weddings. Tor and Frej, the Nordic mythology gods have been worshiped here. 800 meters south of the Anundshög is the power point Tibble labyrinth a very unusual type of ancient monument. Going to Stockholm at 5 pm and spend the night here.

Day 8: Sunday, May 12
Walking around in the Old Town of Stockholm, an exciting town with lots of still “haunted” houses. Time for shopping in the afternoon.

Day 9: Monday, May 13
Leave early morning by ferry out to the archipelago and the island of Ljusterö. The stones that are the ground of the island was created 1500-800 million years ago. You can see on the rocks how they got shaped from the 4 kilometers thick ice during the ice age 10 000 years ago. These rocks are mostly on the north side of the island. When the ice started to disappear about 8000 years before Christ these rocks were still deep under water level. The rocks that holds the island is still raising every year with 0.5 cm per year. In the forest you can still find seashells that come from times when the island was under water. We will walk around on the island and also have lunch here. You can go swimming in the water. We will also do a Water ceremony. Ferry back to Stockholm city and our hotel.

Day 10: Tuesday, May 14
Transfer to Arlanda airport to catch your flight home.

The price includes transfer to and from the airport, private bus, hotels, breakfast, tickets to enter the ancient sites. Ticket for ferry. Guiding and meditations/ceremonies and other spiritual exercises.

The price includes transfer to and from the airport, private bus, hotels, breakfast, tickets to enter the ancient sites. Ticket for ferry. Guiding and meditations/ceremonies and other spiritual exercises.

Please note: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond our control. Pre/post nights are available upon request. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Some inclusions may not be available on indicated dates and dates may have to be adjusted. Listed local Hosts and guides are subject to availability and will be hosting your itinerary wherever possible. However, due to scheduling, there may be some times when the local Host or guide is not available. If this occurs, BMSJ will provide a comparable and experienced substitute.

Not included:

• International flights to Stockholm, Sweden
• Drinks or purified water at meals (normally there is tap water at all meals, coffee and special drinks at breakfast. (Extras are often: espresso, beer, wine, fresh fruit juices, cocktails etc. They must be paid separately)
• Tips drivers and guides

Travel Insurance

Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance.

If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

TOUR PRICES: ** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

Tour – Per Person, double occupancy:
$2,749 payments via check or money order
$2,894 payments via credit card

Single Room Supplement:
$349 payments via check or money order
$367 payments via credit card

NOTE: The Single Room Supplement applies for those who would like to secure a private room throughout the tour.

ROOMMATES: We will be happy to try to find a suitable roommate for those who are traveling alone and would like to share a room. Per our Terms and Conditions, registration for the tour will be held open until 4 weeks before the departure date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate. If, by that date, we have not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this process.

Please note: The above price for the tour is based upon a minimum participation of 6 passengers. Should the total number of passengers fall below 6, this tour may be cancelled (see Terms & Conditions).

For Flight Assistance and Ticketing, call: 631-624-7612
or email horst@rmctravelight.com

Tour operated in cooperation with Nordic Light Tours

June 25 – July 3, 2012

Lunds backe, Sweden's answer to Stonehenge

To accomplish the goals we have with ourselves and the universe we now have to focus on awareness and trust to the work we will do.

We now find ourselves in a highly important time as change is happening with human beings, with Mother Earth and with the Universe itself — a change that is moving fast.

By awakening our awareness we can open our senses and increase our consciousness to what we will experience — not only with this special journey, but for the rest of our lives.

So we shall celebrate each sunrise and sunset by doing the Vedic Fire Agni Hotra as we welcome this time of transformation with meditations, ceremonies and spiritual exercises.

Hosted by Annica Frantz & Annalena Mellblom

About Annica Frantz: Annica has experienced psychic ability since childhood. She works as a past life therapist, psychic and healer. She is an inspiring course leader in psychic development and self development. As an author and creator of best-selling self development CDs, she has many years of experience traveling the world doing spiritual work and visiting power places. On her last trip to Peru, the shamans made her a representative of their wisdom, and appointed her as a shaman. She believes every person has access to the power within themselves and that each one of us is a master.

About Annalena Mellblom: Annalena is one of Sweden’s most well known people in the fields of self development and psychic development. She has had much exposure on TV and radio. She is an author about hypnotherapy and self development. Educated in London and Sweden, she is a stand for peoples’ greatness and like a master. She leads people to live in freedom and living a life they love. Annalena and Annica are a great team and have been working together since 2007.

Featured Hotel

The newly built A6 Hotel is located in Jonkoping, right on a lake called Rocksjon. Comfortable simple accommodations, all with private bath, TV and other amenities.

Tour Price Includes:

• 8 nights hotel accommodations in Jonkoping
• Hotel taxes and service charges
• Transportation throughout the tour
• Breakfast every day
• Admission to ancient sites as per itinerary
• Horse and carriage ride on the island of Visingso
• Ferry transportation to the island of Visingso
• Meditations
• Ceremonies
• Spiritual exercises

Tour Highlights:

• Hosted and escorted by Annica Frantz & Annalena
• Visit to Vadstanes power places
• Visit Lundsbacke with its 82 stones in a simlar calendar pattern as Stonehenge
• In Ombery with its ley lines and its mountain that is said to be a dimentional portal to Venus
• Walk among ancient spiritutal graveyards in the region
• Visit one of the portals said to be used for UFO’s observations in Visningso
• Sample the famous candy “polkagrisar” in Granna
• Walk the magical forest of Taberg
• Visit the stone settings from the Vikings

Day 1: SUNDAY, June 24
Depart the USA for Sweden

Day 2: Monday, June 25 (D)
Arrival in Gothenburg airport and check in at the hotel in Jönköping, where we´ll spend the night and have a welcome dinner together.

Day 3: Tuesday, June 26 (B)
This day we´ll spend visiting many of Vadstena’s power places. The castle here is one of the best original castles in Northern Europe. The monastery has paintings from the Middle Ages. Parts of this historical structure are the Saint Birgitta and the Bjälbo Palace. We will also tour the herbal garden, ruins and stone walls on the grounds as well some of the local houses in Vadstena that date back to the 13th century. Dinner on your own.

Day 4: Wednesday, June 27 (B)
Early departure to Lunds backe. This sacred place has 82 stones put up in a pattern that is very similar to the calendar of stones that Stonehenge has. Very close to this place two temples can be found as well as other sacred places. After lunch on your own, we journey to Omberg where the ley lines are crossing over. This mountain has a dimentional portal in direct contact to Venus. It’s a famous place for UFO observations. The mountain has three ancient castles. We will visit one of the caves called the Rödgavelns cave, that goes into the mountain reaches almost 70 feet in height.

We will have our lunch here. After visiting Omberg, we continue to the Alvastramonastary Ruin, which actually lays at the foot of Omberg. This monastery is from the year 1143 and is a very strong Energy Place.

On the way back to Jönköping we will also visit Brahe Hus.

Day 5: Thursday, June 28: (B)
Leave in the morning by ferry to the island of Visingsö. We will have a Meditation inside the church of Kumlaby. Then climb up in the tower of the church which the old king had leveled so that his students could stand outside in the flat tower and observe and learn about the stars and the universe.

We visit one of the portals that were used by UFOs. Also the ancient graveyards left on the Island. There are a total of 850 antiquities on Visingsö as well as special types of large trees planted here as well. The oldest castle of Sweden is here — NäsSlottsruin. Then we will travel by horse and carriage around the island.

Lunch at Solbackens restaurant that serves eco-friendly, produced food.

Leave Visingsöat by ferry in the late afternoon as we arrive in the village Gränna, an old town famous for the Swedish candy “polkagrisar”. Back in Jönköping about 8pm. Alte dinner on your own.

Day 6: Friday, June 29: (B)
A day at leisure and independent exploring. You can choose hiking or walking in the forests, relaxing, going into Jönköping City for shopping, or even the beach in Jönköping.

Day 7: Saturday, June 30 (B)
We leave this morning by coach to the foot of Taberg and hike in the magic forest This forest holds secret caves and copper mines. It’s a place where bats from far away in Europe comes to spend time in the caves. The top of the cave provides a beautiful view of the town of Jönköping and the second largest lake of Sweden, Vättern. Lunch at the restaurant on the top of the hill. Then a beautiful mystic walk down.

Day 8: Sunday, July 1: (B)
Continue south to a small regional local village and visit the ruins of an ancient church and graveyard.

We will have coffee and the famous Swedish “ostkaka” at a nearby café. Then a visit to the stone settings and ruins dating back to the time of the Vikings.

We continue to a hill which was used as a venom recovery area. Continue to the KånnaHögar, a sacred old graveyard dated to 400 years after Christ. This graveyard holds about 250 graves.

In the evening a special visit to a local graveyard that has not had any excavations and not been touched.

Day 9: Monday, July 2 (B)
We leave in the morning to head out to the coast and the beautiful beach in Halmstad. This evening, there will be a Full Moon ceremony.

Day 10, Tuesday, June 3: (B)
The tour ends as we head back to Gothenburg airport and our journey home.

Please note: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond our control. Pre/post nights are available upon request. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Some inclusions may not be available on indicated dates and dates may have to be adjusted. Listed local Hosts and guides are subject to availability and will be hosting your itinerary wherever possible. However, due to scheduling, there may be some times when the local Host or guide is not available. If this occurs, BMSJ will provide a comparable and experienced substitute.

Not included:

• International flights to Gothenburg, Sweden
• Lunches or dinners other than the welcome dinner
• Drinks or purified water at meals (normally there is tap water at all meals, coffee and special drinks at breakfast. (Extras are often: espresso, beer, wine, fresh fruit juices, cocktails etc. They must be paid separately)
• Tips drivers and guides

Travel Insurance

Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance.

If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

TOUR PRICES:

** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

Tour – Per Person, double occupancy:
$2,299 payments via check or money order
$2,429 payments via credit card

Single Room Supplement:
$249 payments via check or money order
$262 payments via credit card

NOTE: The Single Room Supplement applies for those who would like to secure a private room throughout the tour.

ROOMMATES: We will be happy to try to find a suitable roommate for those who are traveling alone and would like to share a room. Per our Terms and Conditions, registration for the tour will be held open until 4 weeks before the departure date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate. If, by that date, we have not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this process.

Please note: The above price for the tour is based upon a minimum participation of 6 passengers. Should the total number of passengers fall below 6, this tour may be cancelled (see Terms & Conditions).

For Flight Assistance and Ticketing, call: 631-624-7612
or email horst@rmctravelight.com

The Black Madonna, St. Mary, & Mary Magdalene

Day 1. Friday, U.S./Paris:
En route overnight to Paris.

Day 2. Saturday,  Paris: Arrive Paris
Clear Immigration, Baggage Claim and Customs; transfer to hotel. Balance of the day is free time. Welcome dinner at our hotel.

Day 3. Sunday, Paris/Chartres
Morning sightseeing tour of Paris; Eiffel Tower, the Arch de Triumph, the Louvre and other famous sites, including visits to one or two Goddess/Black Madonna sites.  Early afternoon: depart for Chartres in a private van; arrive late afternoon & check into hotel. After dinner, we will gather at Chartres Cathedral, which sits on the site of an important Druid mystery center and has been dedicated to the Divine Feminine since Celtic times. Chartres Cathedral, whose Patron Saint is St. Mary, is also known for its labyrinth. The labyrinth is an archetype found in many spiritual traditions. Unlike a maze, the labyrinth has only one path. Walking its winding course to the center quiets the mind; It involves three stages: purgation – a letting go of distractions as you walk in; illumination – receiving what you came for upon reaching the center; and union – a joining with the sacred as you complete the experience and walk out. Private time to walk the labyrinth in the Divine Energy of St. Mary and to meditate. Dinner & overnight in Chartres.

Day4. Monday,  Chartres
Tour the Cathedral. See and feel the tunic of St. Mary. In the Black Madonna in the Chapel of St. Mary. Afternoon – free time to meditate in the Cathedral, view the stained glass windows, visit the Cathedral Tower for a panoramic view of Chartres and the surrounding countryside, or to explore the Cathedral and grounds or visit the shops in Chartres. Dinner on your own

Day5. Tuesday, Chartres to Rocamadour
Early departure for a full day of travel through the picturesque French countryside. Lunch on your own in a provincial restaurant Arrive Rocamadour in the late afternoon. Overnight and dinner in Rocamadour.

Day6. Wednesday, In Rocamadour
Rocamadour is a famous site of a Black Madonna and was an important pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages. After lunch on our own, we will tour the St.Sauveur Basilica, the Notre Dame Chapel, which houses the Black Madonna. Free time for rest and private meditation. After dinner at the hotel, we will have private meditation time on our own in the Notre Dame Chapel with the image of the Black Madonna.

Day7. Thursday, Rocamadour to Lourdes
 Depart Rocamadour mid-morning for Lourdes, the place of one of the most famous apparitions of the Virgin Mary and a site of miraculous healings. Arrive & check into hotel. Free time to visit the grotto where Bernadette saw the apparition of St. Mary. Drink and/or bathe in the healing water, or meditate on your own with St. Mary at the grotto.  Dinner at our hotel.

 Day8. Friday, Lourdes:
Morning  tour of the Sanctuary – the Rosary Square, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Crypt, and the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. After lunch on your own, free time for a private healing bath on your own  in the Sanctuary or for visiting the Crypt for private  meditation.  After dinner on your own, we return to the hotel and depart together to attend the reading of the Rosary in the Rosary Square.

Day 9. Saturday, Lourdes/Rennes Le Chateau
Early departure for Rennes Le Chateau, situated in the foothills of the Pyrennes Mountains. It is also the site of an unusually beautiful Romanesque-style church devoted to the Divine Feminine in the form of St. Mary Magdalene (who along with several companions arrived on the shores of France after Christ’s resurrection). Her influence is very strong in this part of France. At one time, there was the Cult of Mary Magdalene among whose followers were the Knights Templar. The Church of Mary Magdalene is where Berenger Sauniere, the local priest, found coded parchments while refurbishing the alter in the church. This find from the Goddess-worshipping Visigoths led him to a treasure that brought him considerable wealth. Arrive in the afternoon and check into hotel. After lunch on your own, visit the Church of St. Mary Magdalene for a private meditation. Free time rest of the afternoon and evening. Overnight and dinner at our hotel in Rennes Le Chateau.

 Day 10. Sunday, Rennes Le Chateau
After breakfast, visit the Magdalene Tower, the museum with some of the artifacts and parchments that Sauniere found that led him to the treasure and the Villa Bethania, Sauniere’s home. Afternoon private meditation in the St. Mary Magdalene Church. Dinner on your own.

Day11. Monday, Rennes Le Chateau/Carcasonne
Depart this morning for the medieval walled city of Carcasonne, visited by the Knights of Templar who worshipped the Goddess. After checking into our hotel, we will have a short city tour followed by a visit to the St. Nazaires Church.  Dinner on your own.

 Day 12.  Tuesday, Carcasonne/Paris
Early morning departure by train to Paris; lunch on train; arrive late afternoon. Overnight Paris. Some free time for shopping before we conclude our journey with a farewell dinner at a quaint local restaurant.

Day 13. Wednesday, Paris/U.S.
Depart Paris; arrive U.S .the same day.

NOTE: Itinerary subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.

October, 2012 – Dates to be announced

Moorea is “THE” place of the heart on our planet, source of pure feminine energy. The energy field of love is so strong, we can easily connect to it and have our souls balanced to become full of joy and happiness. Moorea can help us feel the energies of the New Times and adapt to them by welcoming the ancient matriarchal codes into our cell memory.

Moorea is the one place for connecting to the Divine Angels; for learning to JUST BE and flow with the divine feminine light. To experience group sessions “Opening the Sacred Spaces and Levels of the Heart” on this beautiful jungle island is a pure gift from Spirit to you.

So if you should feel the inner call to come with us, do not hesitate and let your soul organize it for you!

Hosted by Carolina Hehenkamp

Carolina is an author, spiritual counselor, trainer and travel guide. After a fashion career she started her spiritual work studying with a Peruvian Shaman 24 years ago, followed by Aura-Soma color Therapy. Since then she has been working ongoing with groups and individuals leading them into the Sacred Space of the Heart, creating a healing space so the manifesting of dreams becomes reality. She is an expert on the “Indigo Phenomenon,” and wrote four books for this new generation and those guiding and educating them. Now she divides her time between leading tour groups to power places in the South Pacific & Chilean Andes, writing and training people to find inner peace, healing and the power to follow their dream. She lived in Rapa Nui/Easter Island for four years and can share powerful indigenous teachings. She believes it is important to gather at ancient power spots, so all our cell memories can be activated, while Mother Earth can feel we love her.

Featured Hotels (or similar)

• 3 nights in Tahiti at the Hotel Meridien (23 km from Papeete)
• 8 nights in Moorea at the Les Tipaniers

THE TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:

• 3 nights hotel accommodations in Punaauia/Tahiti
• 8 nights hotel accommodations in Moorea
• Hotel taxes and service charges
• All transfers in Tahiti
• Transportation on both islands
• 12 Breakfasts – 2 Lunches – 10 Dinners
• Ferry transportation from Tahiti to Moorea
• Flight from Moorea to Tahiti

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Hosted and escorted by Carolina Hehenkamp
• Heart opening workshop with Carolina
• Equinox celebration ceremony & party
• Jungle trekking with local guide
• Visits to sacred spots for ceremonies
• Ceremony with local Polynesian elders
• Special Polynesian local show
• Welcome flower greeting
• Farewell shell lei

Day 1,  Arrival in Tahiti
Arrival at Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti and transfer to our beautiful hotel located on a natural white sandy beach 20 minutes from the town of Papeete. Dinner on your own this evening.

Hotel Meridien

Day 2, In Punaauia (B/D)
After breakfast you have free time to enjoy the beach. The beach is protected by coral reefs; this is real Polynesian and a very South Pacific feeling! Those who want, can drive to Papeete, for a nice French baguette or Polynesian lunch, do some shopping at the famous Tahitian market or the little shops in town. Dinner in the hotel. Before or after dinner we gather for our first group session.

Day 3, In Punaauia (B/D)
Today we will be discovering the sacred parts of the main Island of Tahiti, its Maraes (sacred spiritual spots for ancient ceremony). Have time to be on the beach late afternoon, have some exotic drinks at the bar or a wonderful siesta. Dinner at the hotel.

A marae is a Polynesian sacred temple

Day 4,  To Moorea (B/D)
Midmorning transfer to Papeete, where we will have time to visit the Tahitian market, go shopping in the local shops in town and have a lunch in one of the fancy French restaurants before we walk over to the famous harbor to board an afternoon ferry to Moorea. This beautiful boat trip will give you time to enjoy the spectacular sights of the famous volcanic island coming closer. Transfer to our hotel, which is located on a beautiful white sandy beach. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 5,  In Moorea (B/D)
Early sunrise at the beach before breakfast. After breakfast we will have the first part of our workshop “Opening the Heart”  (around 2 1/2 hours). Lunch in the beach restaurant of our hotel. Free afternoon to swim, meditate, chill-out or swim with manta rays or turtles. Dinner in the hotel.

Moorea, Tahiti

Day 6,  In Moorea (B/D)
Today we will visit several sacred sites and places in the mountains, accompanied by our Tahitian guides. Be in ceremony with Polynesian Elders and celebrate the divine feminine energy of the island Moorea and make it our own. We will take a box lunch from our hotel and enjoy a nice outdoor meal on the beach or in the mountains. Late in the day we have our second session of the Heart Opening workshop. Dinner in the hotel.

Day 7,  In Moorea (B/D)
Early morning celebration on a sacred site. Next session of “Opening of the Heart” and lunch at the beach restaurant of our hotel. Free afternoon, to swim and enjoy the lagoon. In the evening we will enjoy a traditional hula dance show in a wonderful setting.

Moorea sunrise

Day 8,  In Moorea (B/D)
We will have our last session of “Opening of the Heart” in the morning. Lunch in the hotel. Free time to swim, be on the beach, go shopping or sleep in the afternoon. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 9,   In Moorea (B/L/D)
Early in the morning we start our jungle trekking day into the green mountains of Moorea. Ceremony at ancient sacred places. Box lunch upcountry. Dinner in our hotel.

A Tahiti marae

Day 10,  In Moorea (B/D)
Free day to relax, sleep, swim, stroll the beach or go shopping. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 11, : In Moorea (B/D)
Preparation day for tomorrow’s Equinox Celebration with the Elders of Moorea.

Day 12,  In Moorea — Equinox Celebration (B/L/D)
Today is Equinox Celebration day. Time for reflection, introspection and celebration. We will be in ceremony and party. After the ceremonies, the program ends and we are free to celebrate the rest of the day on our own at one of the great local restaurants.

The Papeete Market

Day 13,  To Papeete: (B) – Tour ends
Departure day. Ferry to Papeete. Time to go shopping at the famous Papeete market, its little shops and get some wonderful souvenirs for friends and family. Flight from Faa’a International Airport for your country.

Not included:
- International flights to Tahiti/Papeete
- Visas fees (if one should need them — please check with your local French Polynesia Consulate or via the Internet)
- Drinks or purified water at meals (normally there is tap water at all meals, coffee and special drinks at breakfast. Extras are often: espresso, beer, wine, fresh fruit juices, cocktails etc. They must be paid separately.
- Tips drivers and guides

Please note: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond our control. Pre/post nights are available upon request. Travel insurance is highly recommended.  Some inclusions may not be available on indicated dates and dates may have to be adjusted.  Listed local Hosts and guides are subject to availability and will be hosting your itinerary wherever possible. However, due to scheduling, there may be some times when the local Host or guide is not available. If this occurs, BMSJ will provide a comparable and experienced substitute.

TOUR PRICES: 
** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

Price Per Person, Double Occupancy (Tahiti) & Triple Bungalow Occupancy (Moorea)
$3,999  payments via check or money order
$4,209 payments via credit card

Single Room Supplement Rate on Request

NOTE:  The Single Room Supplement applies for those who would like to secure a private room throughout the tour.

ROOMMATES:  We will be happy to try to find a suitable roommate for those who are traveling alone and would like to share a room.  Per our Terms and Conditions, registration for the tour will be held open until 4 weeks before the departure date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate.  If, by that date, we have not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement.  An early registration will facilitate this process.

Please note: The above price for the tour is based upon a minimum participation of 10  passengers. Should the number of passengers fall below the minimum, the following supplement may be imposed: 8-9 travelers  $75. Should the total number of passengers fall below 8, this tour may be cancelled (see Terms & Conditions).

Travel Insurance

Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance.

If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

For Flight Assistance and Ticketing, call: 631-624-7612
or email horst@rmctravelight.com

Day 1, Saturday – Depart USA
Depart this evening for Vietnam

Day 2, Sunday – Cross International Dateline

Day 3, Monday – Arrival Ho Chi Minh City
Arrive Ho Chi Minh City. Met by tour representatives. Transfer to the hotel. Free time for rest and relaxation. Overnight Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 4, Tuesday – Ho Chi Minh City (B)
Breakfast. Visit Thien Hau Pagoda, former Presidentail Palace, History Musuem, and lacquerware workshop. Afternoon and evening free for rest, relaxation, and optional meditation. Overnight Ho Chi Minh City.

Ben Thanh central market

Day 5, Wednesday – Ho Chi Minh City (B)
Breakfast. Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s pagodas: Giac Lam, Vinh Nghiem, Giac Vieb and the Southern One Pillas Pagoda. Afternoon free for independent exploration including the famous Ben Thanh, the central market where vendors sell everything in this fantastic bazaar. Evening free for rest, relaxation, and optional meditation. Overnight Ho Chi Minh City.

Imperial Citadel, Hue

Day 6, Thursday – Ho Chi Minh –Hue  (B)
Breafast. Flight to Hue and transfer to hotel. Visit the Imperial Citadel, the Royal Relics Museum and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Optional evening visit to Duc Son Pagoda, care orphan institute, run by Buddhist nuns and home to 165 orphan children. Return to the Hotel. Overnight Hue.

Day 7, Friday – Hue –Danang (B)
Breakfast. Option 1: Visit outside of Hue to Quang Tri community, where plans for a children’s school are being funded through “Kings First” Educational Fund. Your donation included in the tour package will contribute to the building of a new 12 classroom school that can educate 800 children and give them hope for their future.

Thiem Mu pagoda, Hue

Or Option 2: Tour of Hue’s pagodas, followed by a boat excursion on the Perfume River, stopping at Minh Mang’s tomb, the Bowl Temple, Tu Duc and Khai Dinh’s Tomb. Continue with a visit to Tu Dam and Tu Hieu before continuing to Danang. Overnight Danang.

Day 8, Saturday – Danang (B)
Breakfast. Tour of Danang’s pagodas including a visit to Ling Ung Ngu, Hanh Son and Phoc Lam. Time to explore Pho Da and the ancient city of Hoi An. Overnight in Danang.

Hoi An street scene

Day 9/Sunday – Danang/Hanoi (B)
Breakfast. Flight from Danang to Hanoi. Transfer to the hotel. Remainder of day and evening free for rest, relaxation, and meditation. Overnight Hanoi.

Day 10, Monday – Hanoi (B)
Breakfast. Full day excursion to Hoa Binh, cruise alone the Song Da Lake and a Muong village before returning to Hanoi. Evening free for rest, relaxation, and optional meditation. Overnignt in Hanoi.

Muong village house

Day 11, Tuesday – Hanoi  (B)
Breakfast. isit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Musuem, the Quan Thanh Temple, the Temple of Literature, Fine Arts Museum, lake of the restored Sward and Saga Pagoda. Evening free for rest, relaxation and meditation. Overnight Hanoi.

Day 12, Wednesday – Hanoi (B/-/D)
Breakfast. Full day for free independent exploration. This evening, we have a special “Farewell to Vietnam” Dinner. Overnight Hanoi.

Day 13, Thursday – Hanoi – Departure (B)
Breakfast. Transfer to the airport for departure flight to next destination.

Return to Sample Itineraries List

Group Tour Host Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Online Tour Host Application

Downloadable Tour Host Application

This Buddhist meditation retreat is based upon the Tibetan Mahayana tradition. It will be held at the world renowned Tushita Buddhist Centre in Mcleod Ganj, India.

Established in 1973, Tushita has an international reputation for its Introduction to Buddhism course which is equally applicable to beginners and people with some knowledge of Buddhism.

It is taught by experienced Western and Tibetan teachers who explore Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and meditation with a modern twist on it.

• The Mind and Emotions
• Karma
• Rebirth
• Love & Compassion
• The Nature of Reality

The schedule includes different methods of meditation and discussion groups. A typical day begins at 6am and finishes with an evening meditation at 7.30pm. During the day you will be expected to assist with the cleaning and upkeep of the centre by doing Karma yoga jobs. If the retreat is a 10 day retreat the last two days are comprised of intensive meditation to afford you the chance to put into practice what you have learned. For shorter retreats the schedule is the same except there are no two day intensive meditations. On this retreat you will learn how to apply various methods in order to increase peace, happiness and compassion in your daily life.

As many if the concepts presented may be new or different from our own beliefs and experiences the Buddhist centre requests that people maintain an open mind and be prepared to examine not only the teachings but their current beliefs also. All participants are required to remain silent for the duration of the retreat except during discussion groups or Q&A sessions of which there is usually one per day apart from the last two days of intensive meditation. If for any reason you don’t complete the meditation retreat we will assist you to make sure you are safe and well. Any extra costs due to you leaving the course for any reason will be at your own personal expense. Accommodation – At the Buddhist Meditation Centre the accommodation is in dorms. These can either be a 4 or 10 person basic dorm depending on what is available at the time of check-in.

Food – Three meals per day of a vegetarian diet which is a mix of Indian, Tibetan and Western are provided.  Special dietary requirements are not accommodated at the centre due to the large volumes of people participating in the courses. Meals tend not to contain meat, fish, eggs, radish, onions or garlic and if they do will be labelled as such.

Dalai Lama India Meditation Tour Itinerary

Tushita Buddhist Meditation Centre website

Tibetan Path in India Tour and Retreat

Tour operated in cooperation with Spiritual Backpackers Tours

March  6 – 24, 2012

This Tour Has Been Rescheduled to June 5 – 21, 2012

Click Here for June Tour Itinerary

 High in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas is a small town called McLeod Ganj that is home to the most famous refugee in the world, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Since the cultural revolution in Tibet, thousands of Tibetans have arrived in this Indian town more widely known as Dharamsala, bringing with them all the sacred wisdom and teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. People travel from all over the world to this place, surpassing many obstacles along the way, all for the once in a lifetime chance to see His Holiness and learn from him. On this tour we are opening the gateway to just that. The hosts are a Tibetan Lama named Buga and Lisa Tully, who is originally from Ireland. They will take you to McLeod Ganj, India to attend public teachings by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, learn Buddhist meditation from teachers of his lineage and hang out with his local Tibetan family.

Attending the public teachings by His Holiness will afford you the opportunity to experience the immense power of this man’s heart. He refers to himself as ‘a simple monk’ but rest assured this is a typically Tibetan, understatement. Although His Holiness tirelessly travels the globe reaching out to as many ‘brothers and sisters’ as possible, the authenticity of seeing him reach out to his own people in his home temple is a totally different experience. For example looking around you will see devotees falling into deep states of meditation simply by being in his presence. People bursting into tears at the mere sight of him as he gentle opens hearts that little bit wider. As the saying goes “a broken heart is an open heart.”

Our meditation retreat is a 10-day silent retreat run by the internationally renowned Tushita Meditation Centre. Nestled high in the forests far away from any hustle and bustle, this welcoming haven is perfect for those who want to get away so they can go in and explore their true nature. A serious retreat that will provide the tools needed to begin or enhance a daily meditation practice. A chance to learn more about Tibetan Buddhism and harness some of its benefits for yourself and the people you share your life with by bringing home the souvenir of greater peace, love and compassion.

McLeod Ganj is also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ as it is filled to the brim with Tibetan lamas, monks and nuns meditating for the benefit of all sentient beings in the many monasteries, nunneries and secluded retreats scattered around the hilltops. Simply by being in this location, visitors are benefiting on many levels as the vibration of this sacred place is so high. It provides the perfect setting to embark on a lifetime’s journey of meditation and spiritual growth.

For those looking to join a family that takes you to your inner places less traveled, we are only delighted to welcome you into the our fold!

IMPORTANT NOTE:  Due to his lengthy service as a great spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama is understandably starting to cut back on his schedule.  For that reason his Spring teaching in India will be for one morning.  We will attend that teaching on our upcoming tour.  Rest assured that any time spent in the presence of this great Tibetan master will be of immense benefit to you. That is why this is an especially important opportunity that should not be missed.

Day 1 – Tuesday, March 6
We greet you at Delhi airport then transfer to the Tibetan quarter of Delhi, Majnu Ka Tilla. You will then have the opportunity to explore the many alleyways and temples of this welcoming Tibetan maze.  As you whiz your way across Delhi you will also get to experience the Indian way of life that is totally unique!

Day 2 – Wednesday, March 7
Early morning drive to McCleod Ganj, the scenic town that rests in the foothills of the Himalayas. This is the home of the Dalai Lama in exile and is also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ . We will reside in that general area for the duration of our tour. Believe us when we say you won’t want to  leave! We travel up there by private transfer (approx 12 hours), then check into our hotel. If you would prefer you can also fly from Delhi to Dharamsala and meet us when we get there, it is a one hour flight.

Day 3  - Thursday, March 8
Attend teachings by His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama on the Jataka Tales in the morning at the main Tibetan temple.  Group walk around the famous and incredibly scenic ‘kora’ that circles the Dalai Lama’s temple.  It is considered particularly auspicious to do it when he is in town so we will gain great merit as we stroll!  We then have a relaxed McLeod Ganj orientation as Lama Buga and Lama Kalden show us the town from their ‘monastic’ eyes.  That evening we will attend our own private Green Tara puja held for us by our dear friends the tantric lamas from Gyumed Monastery.  Green Tara is particularly helpful for any areas of your life you need swift action in so come with your intentions prepared!

Day 4 – Friday, March 9
Visit the fascinating Norbulingka centre, set up to keep Tibetan culture and values alive.  Here you will have the opportunity to see artists at work as they paint the incredible Tibetan ‘Thangka’ paintings, each curve of which is guided according to the sacred texts.  Late afternoon, in the true Tibetan spirit of kindness, we will take part in a relaxed English conversation class with local Tibetan refugees to do our bit for the local community.

Day 5  - Saturday, March 10
As many Tibetan children are sent to India by their parents so they can receive an authentic Tibetan education and up bringing, unfortunately they don’t have the means to come with them.  The Tibetan Childrens’ Village was set up by the Dalai Lama’s sister to care for these children so their parents wishes can become a reality.  We will take a stroll up the hillside to visit one of these heart warming schools and witness firsthand the strength of the Tibetan spirit despite all that has happened and continues to happen.  Then keeping in line with this theme we will receive a private lecture from Ama Adhe, an incredible Tibetan elder woman who spent 27 years in a Chinese torture camp and still has an amazing smile that never fails to lift.  To get the most from this experience we suggest you read her book “The Voice That Remembers” beforehand!

Day 6  - Sunday, March 11
Full day at leisure.

Day 7 - Monday, March 12
Tibetan astrology is an ancient tradition that dates back as far as the 2nd century.  Proving more and more popular in the West, the Tibetan institute Men-Tsee-Khang offers astrological charts translated into English.  We will visit this institute where you can order your chart astrological chart for the following year all included in the price of this tour!  Just make sure you have your time of birth as well as the date and place and any specific questions you may have! In the afternoon we will take a walk up the hill to the wonderful Bhagsu waterfall where you will spot monks washing their robes in the crystal clear waters!

Day 8 - Tuesday, March 13
Check out of hotel and transfer by local taxi to the nearby peaceful Buddhist meditation centre up in the hills of McCleod Ganj. This place is quiet, surrounded by trees and hillside views with stupas scattered about the grounds for you to stumble across as you take a stroll.
Days 9 – 17 – Wednesday, March 14 through Wednesday, March 21

Introduction to Buddhism silent meditation retreat. Yes we did say silent, are you ready to go inside?

Day 18 – Thursday, March 22
Final day of retreat. Check out between 1 pm and 3 pm. Transfer in local taxi and check into hotel in McLeod Ganj town centre.  Even the town centre of this special place has incredible buildings such as the temple seen here in this photo.  That afternoon Lama Buga & Lama Kalden will take us to do a prayer flag puja.  Writing names on prayer flags and hanging them in auspicious places is believed to blows all fears away.

Day 19 – Friday, March 23
Drive back down the mountain to Delhi by private transfer (Approx 12 hours). Overnight stay at the Tibetan quarter in Delhi.

Day 20 – Saturday, March 24
Exchange details with your new global family, then transfers to Delhi airport for onward travel.

Keep in mind: The planning of these tours depend on the teaching schedule of both His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama and the Tushita Meditation Centre. We plan as far ahead as all schedules allow and we do appreciate your patience on this.

Please read the Terms and Conditions for this tour.

TOUR PRICES:
** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

$2,799 payments via check or money order
$2,946 payments via credit card

Price is per person for single and dorm occupancy. Dorm is on the retreat.

A deposit of $300 is required. Full payment is due not less than 56 days prior to your tour start date. When bookings are made less than 56 days before the tour start date full payment must be made when booking.

A cancellation by you must be advised to us in writing. If a booking is cancelled we reserve the right to apply cancellation charges as follows:

• Up to 55 days prior to tour date: Initial deposit amount
• 21 to 55 days prior to tour date: 50% of total cost
• 14 to 20 days prior to tour date: 75% of total cost
• 1 to 13 days prior to tour date: 100% of total cost

If a trip is cancelled more than 56 days before the tour start date we will happily refund all the money you have paid except for a $50 processing fee.

Cost includes

• English speaking host for duration of trip
• Transfers to and from Delhi international airport
• Transfers from Delhi to McCleod Ganj and back to Delhi
• Transfers from McCleod Ganj to Buddhist Meditation Centre and back to McCleod Ganj
• 2 nights single occupancy accommodation in Delhi (standard is budget so may or may not have a private bathroom depending on availability)
• 7 nights single occupancy accommodation in McCleod Ganj (standard is budget so may or may not have a private bathroom depending on availability)
• 10 nights dormitory accommodation at the Tushita Meditation Centre in McCleod Ganj
• Suggested donations by Buddhist Meditation Center to cover cost of dorm accommodation and food.
• The food provided is dinner on day 1, 3 meals day 2 to 9, and breakfast and picnic lunch on day 10 of the retreat.

Cost excludes

• Personal expenses
• Visa and passport fees
• Travel insurance
• International & domestic flights
• Train fares
• Airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage unless specified
• Meals other than those specified
• Optional activities and sightseeing
• Tips

Click for More Buddhist Meditation Retreat Details

Lisa Tully and Lama Buga Tire

Lisa Tully
Feeling miffed at corporate life and all its samsara trappings, Lisa handed in her notice. Money was tight, people were pessimistic but her heart was smiling. For she had a deep calling to go to India and the money for a ticket fast burning a hole in her pocket.

Originally she was meant to go with a group of friends but as many group emails went by, the thoughts of sipping cool drinks on a beach in a posh resort just didn’t cut it as a dream trip to India. So she decided to go solo instead of team, north instead of south and Tibetan instead of Indian. A public teaching by His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama was the entire basis for the trip, little did she realize that would be just one of the highlights amongst many others.

Although it is well believed that His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama lives in Dharamsala he actually resides further up the hill in a wonderful town called McLeod Ganj.

On arrival in McLeod Ganj Lisa quickly found herself blissfully immersed in the world of his family of Tibetan monks and nuns. And that was it, the entire trip was a mixture of immense teachings, spectacular Himalayan scenery, tasty Tibetan momos, profound meditations and discoveries of all the local best bits through the eyes of dedicated maroon clad friends.

On returning back to Europe from this incredible trip she found it difficult to settle back into the spiritual poverty of the west for so much had changed inside her. So after witnessing the stress and anguish of her Western brothers and sisters with new eyes she decided more people needed to experience what she experienced. After all how much better would the world be if we all recognized the bank of spiritual wealth that is deep inside each and every one of us?

Driven by a passion to travel from an early age and now coupled with a deep yearning for a more awakened nature, Lisa our host and organizer simply revels in spending as much time as possible with her Tibetan family in India. A meditator, a yogini and a reluctant lapsed veggie, she has a clear purpose to light the spark of inner freedom within as many people as possible. And what better way to do that than pave the way for others to experience the graceful presence of one of the freest people on the planet despite all his difficulties, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama?

Lama Buga Tire
Whilst in India, the first person to greet Lisa in McLeod Ganj was her now dear friend Lama Buga. He is a Buddhist monk from Gyumed Tantric Monastery in South India and has been one since the age of six. He is originally from Tibet but fled to India after the cultural revolution.

Part of his role as a monk is that he can be placed by his monastery to do work in specific centres around India. As a result he has spent three years in McLeod Ganj, two of them were spent at the Buddhist meditation centre we take our groups to for retreats and also two years in Delhi hence his title ‘monk about town’. With all his contacts, local knowledge and Buddhist training Buga is the man on the ground in India taking care of the finer details so you can just soak it all up. When asked why he helps Lisa run these tours true to Tibetan form he replied ‘because she is my friend’.

Extra info:
We also run these tours to support the Tibetan people. By bringing more people to Dharamsala we are raising awareness about this silent genocide, by donating 10% of our profits to TCV we are helping to feed and educate Tibetan children and by using mainly Tibetan services we are bringing work to the Tibetan people in exile that support their families and culture both inside and outside of Tibet. And by signing up to our tour you too will be contributing to the cause.

Our gift to you…Whilst doing research on all things Tibetan our host Lisa came across the wonderful book ‘For Tibet, With Love’ by bestselling international author Isabel Losada. This is a funny moving tale of Isabel’s journey to help Tibet. Along the way she falls for a monk in Nepal, upsets BP, faces some hard truths, irritates the Chinese Ambassador, listens to Mahatma Gandhi, captures headlines worldwide and then…she meets the Dalai Lama. Struck by the strong message in this fantastic book that gives any reader a clear understanding of the current plight of the Tibetans and the similarities is has to the experiences our tours bring, Lisa got in touch with Isabel to explore a collaboration. The result is that everyone who comes on our tours gets a free copy of this book. The challenge is once you have read it to pass it on to someone you know who is most likely to do something to help this cause or come on one of our tours. Either way we collectively raise more awareness for Tibet.

“Lisa’s Spiritual Backpacker’s trip to Dharamsala sounds wonderful. She’s done all the hard work for you – found the hotels and even worked out when His Holiness is teaching. If I’d known her when I wrote ‘For Tibet, With Love’ my life would have been very much easier. Go with her – but the bus ride is still terrible.”
- Isabel Losada

Travel Insurance

Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Access America.

If you need additional information or have questions, please call Access America directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

 For Flight Assistance and Ticketing, call: 631-624-7612 or email horst@rmctravelight.com

A Transformational Journey of Tropical Yoga and Radiant Meditation

Tour operated in cooperation with Sacred Earth Journeys

February 26 – March 11, 2012

Day 1 Sun, Feb 26: Arrive Kochi (D)

Arrive in Kochi (Cochin) on the west coast of India.  Be met at the airport by our representative and be transferred to our hotel in the Fort Cochin area. Kochi is a jewel in the crown of Kerala with its European heritage and true cosmopolitan air. A centre of trade, Kochi merchants began trading spices such as black pepper and cardamom with the Arabs, Dutch, Portuguese, and Chinese more than 600 years ago. A striking scene here is the row of Cheena vala, Chinese fishing nets that line the mouth of the harbour, which leads to the Arabian Sea in Fort Kochi. A leisurely walk through its streets is one of the best ways to discover all that the city has to offer including it’s natural harbour and historical sites. This evening we will gather for our Welcome Dinnerat the Terrace Garden Restaurant where we will first meet Padma and our fellow yogis. (Overnight in Kochi at Grande Residencia)

Day 2 Mon, Feb 27: Kochi (B, D)

After breakfast in the hotel, we meet from 8:00 – 10:00 AM for our orientation meeting along with introductions, setting intentions and our first meditation session to initiate the journey. Afterwards, we leave for a guided tour of Kochi. We visit the St. Francis Church considered the first European-built Church in India, built in 1562 by St. Francis and then continue on to the Mattanchery Dutch Palace, a double-storied palace. The most important features of Mattanchery Palace are the murals in the bedchambers, which depict scenes from the epic story, the Ramayana, Mahabharata. These murals are some of the most beautiful and extensive in India. We then visit the Jewish Synagogue, which was constructed in 1568 and is the oldest in the Commonwealth. While driving along the coastline, at the Harbour’s mouth, you can also catch a glimpse of the unique and still-in-use Chinese fishing nets, which were introduced by the Chinese traders in the 14th Century. Our city tour ends in the Fort Kochi area where you will have time to walk through the historical Dutch and Portuguese areas. Some parts of the nearly 500-year-old Fort are amazingly well preserved.

After lunch on your own, we meet again at the hotel for our 3:00 – 4:30 PM yoga class. This will be a gentle and restorative yoga class designed to help you recover from jet lag and to settle you easily into India.

Today we enjoy the entire day at leisure for our yoga and meditation practice as well as independent activities. All our meals will be enjoyed at the estate for our convenience.

 

Padma will offer two yoga and meditation classes today, one in the late morning from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and another in the early evening from 5:30 – 7:30 PM, each carefully designed to suit your needs of the day. If everyone is tired, she will lead a more restorative class. If the group is feeling more active you will start to work on poses and sequences that gently build your strength and move your energy in a way that’s perfect for you. The class includes yogic breath work and beautiful Sanskrit chanting. Padma will also teach meditation techniques which you will be able to practice while gliding along on the houseboat ride the next day, since there will be no formal class together on the boats.  (Overnight in Munnar at Windemere Estate)

 

Day 5 Thu, Mar 1: Munnar; Alleppey (B, L, D)

After an early breakfast we drive to Alleppey (240 kms / 6 hrs including stops) and embark at approx. 1:00 PM on our luxuriously furnished houseboats for a relaxing overnight backwater cruise, enjoying freshly cooked traditional meals onboard. Fondly known as the “Venice of the East”, Alleppey is famous for its Snake Boat Races. This charming town of picturesque canals, backwaters, beaches and lagoons, is the perfect place to enjoy a little R & R. As we drift peacefully along the backwaters on our beautiful and charming houseboats, we can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, a microcosm of flora and fauna, which includes a large species of birds such as kingfishers, pheasants, cormorants, drogues, woodpeckers, bee-eaters and kite, and admire the scenes of local villages. Our boat cruise will take us to small islets where we will be able to catch glimpses of serene village life at its best. Watch village girls picking mussels and laundering clothes while men are busy harvesting coconuts and dates from the trees, and observe the locals making the golden fibre called coir from coconut husk to be transformed into various coir products. With an abundance of rustling coconut groves around us, we shall stop to drink fresh coconut water from the kernel and watch the toddy-tappers at work. This will be a great day to take time for meditation, journaling and contemplation.  Padma will be available to offer private consultations as much as possible. (Overnight on Houseboat)

 

Day 6 Fri, Mar 2: Houseboat; Chowara (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we disembark our houseboats at approx. 9:00 AM, drive to Chowara (175 kms / 5 hrs including stops), and check in to our resort upon arrival. Our resort is located on the lovely shores of the Arabian Sea at Chowara, south of Kovalam, near Trivandrum, Kerala. Set on 14 acres of lush green land overlooking the blue sea and soft golden sands, this resort will be our haven for the next 4 nights. This afternoon, enjoy lunch at the resort restaurant, relax, and stroll around to become better familiar with the grounds. This would also be a good time to book some optional Ayurvedic treatments for the remainder of your stay at the resort’s Ayurvedic Centre, which will help you bring back the equilibrium of tridoshas and live your life in a much healthier way.

We will thoroughly delight in our yoga and meditation class from 5:30-7:30 PM after having had a long drive today. Padma will continue to introduce yogic thought and the ancient art of expanding our awareness. We will practice yoga, breath work, Sanskrit chanting and meditation. There will also be time for more questions and answers together. Later, we enjoy dinner together at the resort.  (Overnight at Travancore Heritage Resort)

 

Day 7 Sat, Mar 3: Chowara (B, L, D)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the resort this morning before beginning our 3 day yoga and meditation retreat with Padma. The classes of yoga, breath work and philosophy will build and evolve in synchronicity with the theme of the whole journey. Our morning yoga session from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, will include a workshop from Padma’s Elemental Series TV show where you will learn Padma’s unique program of foundational yogic health practices. This workshop offers an overview of the subtle energy bodies that we all have. Through yoga, breath, chanting, and meditation you will come to understand how you can keep yourself in peak fitness, joy, and wellness.

During our evening meditation classfrom 5:30 – 7:30 pm, Padma will guide you to become established in a foundational meditation practice that will stay with you your whole life. She will expand and refine the teachings each day as we all settle more and more into the blissful space of what is truly mystical about India, it’s heritage of clear and spiritual awareness. In your free time, relax on the beach, enjoy the pool and resort amenities, explore on your own, or enjoy optional Ayurvedic treatments at the ayurveda centre.  (Overnight at Travancore Heritage Resort)

 

Day 8 Sun, Mar 4: Chowara (B, L, D)

After another leisurely breakfast at the resort, we continue our retreat with Padma. This morning from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, we enjoy our yoga class, a workshop from Padma’s Modern Meditations Series TV show. This workshop will feature Padma’s unique program, which explores how the many various yogic practices and meditations can easily be applied to everyday, real situations and bring balance, strength, and clarity to your life. You will gain an understanding of how therapeutic and useful yoga can be.

During our evening meditation class from 5:30 – 7:30 pm, Padma will teach us about the Sanskrit language, chanting, and mantra yoga. During this session, you will come to understand the power of sound as well as the power of thought. (Overnight at Travancore Heritage Resort)

 

Day 9 Mon, Mar 5: Chowara (B, L, D)

After another leisurely breakfast at the resort, we continue our retreat with Padma. This morning from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, we enjoy our yoga class, a workshop from Padma’s Blissful Living SeriesTV show. This workshop highlights Padma’s decades of expertise with a sublime and unique yoga practice that perfectly integrates pure wellness with blissful spiritual awareness. Learn from a master teacher.

During our evening meditation class from 5:30 – 7:30 PM, Padma will guide us to explore the very special and esoteric spiritual wisdom that permeates India. She will offer the wisdom of her 22 years of study and experience of being a yogi and of living in India.  (Overnight at Travancore Heritage Resort)

 

Day 10 Tue, Mar 6: Chowara, Madurai (B, L)

Today we check out of the resort after breakfast and drive to Madurai, the oldest inhabited city in the Indian peninsula, stopping for lunch en route (325 kms / 7 hrs including stops). Upon arrival at our hotel, we will check in and then you can enjoy the afternoon at your leisure to explore this fascinating city.

In the evening from 6:00 – 7:30 PM we will gather for our session with Padma, who will lead us in a replenishing and restorative yoga class with deep meditation.

This evening enjoy, take the opportunity to explore the city independently once more or with your new-found friends and try a traditional dinner at one of the many restaurants nearby. (Overnight in Madurai at The Gateway Hotel)

 

Day 11 Wed, Mar 7: Madurai (B)

After breakfast at the hotel we leave for a sightseeing tour of the most important temples in Madurai, the Meenakshi Temple, an enormous temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati or Meenakshi. The temple with its majestic stone walls and 12 towers known as “Gopurams”, which rise out of the swarming streets of the city centre, were built in the 17th century by Nayak rulers. The highlight of the Meenakshi Temple is the “Hall of a Thousand Pillars”, built in the 16th century in Dravidian architecture. Not to be missed here are the “Musical Pillars”, which when struck, produce a different musical note. You then have time to wander about the city and enjoy lunch on your own. Later, we visit the Tirumala Nayak Palace, a gracious building in the Indo-Saracenic style, famous for the stucco work on its domes and arches.

After our sightseeing, we enjoy a yoga and meditation class from 4:00 – 6:00 PM where Padma will guides us in harmony with the energy of the day while building on the themes and explorations of the journey so far.

After dinner on your own, we return to Meenakshi Temple to witness the daily prayer ceremony when the temple bronze of Lord Shiva is carried to the bedchamber of Parvati. The procession is accompanied by religious prayer and temple music. (Overnight in Madurai at The Gateway Hotel)

 

Day 12 Thu, Mar 8: Madurai; Chennai (B, L)

This morning, enjoy breakfast at your leisure. Our yoga and meditation classwill be from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM after which you will have free time until departure for independent activities.

In the afternoon, we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Chennai on the Coromandel coast of the Bay of Bengal (just over 1 hour long), arriving at approximately 6:00 PM. After a meet and greet on arrival by our representative, we will transfer to the hotel and settle in. Dinner is on your own this evening to sample some delicious Tamil cuisine at any of the great restaurants in Chennai. (Overnight in Chennai at GRT Grand Hotel)

 

Day 13 Fri, Mar 9: Excursion to Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we leave for an excursion to Kanchipuram, one of Hinduism’s seven most sacred cities. This “Golden City of a Thousand Temples” dates back to the early Cholas in the 7th century AD. Only around 70 temples of the original 1000 old temples are still intact and the most famous of them is the Kailasanatha Temple built of sandstone in the early seventh century A.D. As Kanchipuram is also known for its silk weavings, a visit to the nearby villages to see the craftsmen at work on their looms will be a wonderful experience. We will enjoy lunch here.

We then continue on to Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) to visit the seventh century rock-hewn monuments. The Shore Temple, a World Heritage Monument and the only surviving one of seven, is a unique example of a temple built of rock quarried elsewhere and carried to the shore. The best known of the rock carvings is the immense bas-relief which is sculpted in fascinating detail on a huge whaleback-shaped rock, depicting the descent of the Ganges to the earth, the penance of Arjuna and myriad characters from the Mahabharata story. We also visit the Five Rathas,a set of monolithic rock temples located on a sandy compound and a perfect example of the evolution of Dravidian style architecture. The Rathas have an association to the great epic Mahabharata, which describes the heroes of Mahabharata with their wife Draupadi.

This is a full day of amazing sightseeing. There is no time for a formal yoga class at the hotel, however, hopefully there will be an opportunity for a meditation at one of the sites. Padma will work with the guides to find a lovely location for us to sit with her and take a few moments of rest and reflect. Upon our return to Chennai, we will have time to freshen up before enjoying dinner at the hotel. (Overnight in Chennai at GRT Grand Hotel)

 

Day 14 Sat, Mar 10: Chennai (B, D)

After breakfast, we depart for a sightseeing city tour of Chennai, which served as the economic and political capital of the East India Company from the 17th century onwards. Among the highlights of the city is Fort St George that marks the beginning of Chennai as an important centre for trade. Within the fort is St Mary’s Church, the first English church in India and the oldest British building to survive. We will also spend some time in the Mylapore Temple area visiting the 16th century Kapleeswarar Temple as well as explore the fruit and flower market.Enjoy lunch on your own to sample some of the delicious local fare. Later, in the afternoon, enjoy some free time for shopping and other independent activities. There are so many treasures to be found here in Chennai!

In the evening, we gather together for our last yoga and meditation class from 5:30 – 7:30 PM where Padma will summarize and review the explorations and discoveries we have made throughout our journey. This class will beautifully conclude the adventures we’ve shared and send you off with confidence and satisfaction in your yoga and meditation practice. Later we enjoy a final Farewell Dinner at a lovely local restaurant in Chennai. (Overnight in Chennai at GRT Grand Hotel)

 

Day 15 Sun, Mar 11: Depart Chennai (B)

This morning is free to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities. Check out is at 12:00 noon but you can leave your luggage at the hotel for the afternoon. This afternoon you have the opportunity for last minute shopping. The bus will then take you to a shopping centre and return to the hotel at approx. 6:30 PM. Lunch and dinner are on your own and in the late evening you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight (most departures are late evening, however an extra night can be arranged if required).

(B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.

 

Tour Inclusions and Price

Tour Includes:

• 14 nights accommodation in Hotels, Resort, and Luxury Houseboat
• Arrival and Departure Transfers
• Breakfast Daily, 10 Lunches and 11 Dinners
• Transportation by Private Air Conditioned Coach
• Hotel Taxes
• Baggage Handling at the Hotels (1 bag per person)
• Admission to all sites as per itinerary
• All Local Guide services as per itinerary
• Domestic flight from Madurai to Chennai

Special Added Features:

• Travel with Yoga and Meditation Teacher, Padma
• 30 hours of Yoga and Meditation Instruction with Padma
• Private One-on-one Meditation Consultations
• Kochi Sightseeing Tour
• Kathakali Dance Show
• Tour of Tea Estate & Museum with Tea Tasting
• Overnight Backwater Cruise
• Visit Meenakshi Temple and Tirumala Nayak Palace in Madurai
• Prayer Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple
• Visit Kanchipuram
• Visit Mahabalipuram
• Chennai Sightseeing Tour

Tour Does Not Include:

• International Airfare to Kochi (COK) and return from Chennai (MAA)
• Cancellation & Medical Insurance (ask us for a quote)
• Meals and drinks not specified as indicated in the itinerary
• Cost to obtain valid passport
• Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks and telephone calls. Any item that is not specifically detailed on our website or in the final retreat itinerary.

Please read the Terms and Conditions for this tour.

TOUR PRICES:
** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

Price Per Person (Land Only)

$4,335 payments via check or money order
$4,563 payments via credit card

Single Supplement

$1,374 payments via check or money order
$1,446 payments via credit card

Pre-Paid Gratuities
$180 payments via check or money order
$189 payments via credit card
Note: Pre-paid gratuities to cover guides, drivers, waiters, baggage handling, etc. Your local Tour Guide will carry and disburse these funds so that you can relax and enjoy your trip, knowing that everyone assisting you is being taken care of properly.

Note: The single supplement is ONLY for those who would like to secure a private room throughout the tour, at the indicated additional price. If you are not traveling with anyone you know and would like to share a room, we will be happy to work to find you a suitable roommate. Per our Terms and Conditions, registration for the tour will be held open until two weeks before the departure date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate. If by that date we have not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this process.

Travel Insurance

Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, Access America

If you need additional information or have questions, please call Access America directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

 

For Flight Assistance and Ticketing, call: 631-624-7612 or email horst@rmctravelight.com