2014: What a Year! (part 2)

After our post "2014: What a Year! (part 1)" in last week's installment of our 2014 year summary, we wanted to go ahead and give you an update about the rest of our summer and fall this year.

At the very end of June we headed to our home-away-from-home of Italy and enjoyed a week among the sunflowers with a fun group! Since many of the guests were Americans, we even celebrated the 4th of July with a private fireworks show put on just for us on the hillsides of Tuscany. Then later in July we returned to the villa in Tuscany for another week of village tours, Italian cuisine, thermal spa visits, and yoga under the Tuscan sun!

In between the two Tuscany countryside retreats was spent in Florence with the first annual collaboration Five Senses Yoga Retreat where we spent five days in the amazing city of Firenze exploring one of the five senses per day - SEEING the sites, SMELLING the aromatic spas and notes of a wine tasting, FEELING our bodies in a Chianti bike tour, HEARING Gregorian chants sung by monks on a hillside church, and TASTING the Tuscan cuisine during a cooking class. It was a completely successful experience and we couldn't have asked for a better group of women.

Join us in ITALY in 2015! (click on the links for details)

June 28 - July 4 :: Tuscany, Italy
July 5 - 10 :: Florence, Italy (Five Senses Retreat)

The very next month we were off again for our first retreat in the "Land of Fire and Ice" - and what an Icelandic adventure it was! Experiencing Iceland in the summer is a treat and our group explored the southwest region from the Ion Adventure hotel to the Blue Lagoon - all with geysirs, waterfalls, and plenty of blue thermal pools in between. Can't wait to return for our Northern Lights trip for New Years!

Join us in ICELAND in 2015! (click on the link for details)

Aug 9 - 15 :: Southwest, Iceland

In September it was back to Marrakesh for a couple of weeks of Moroccan magic (summed up in part 1), before it was back to Italy in October for the "Tastes of Tuscany" retreat at a wine resort villa outside of the beautiful city of Siena. Each day was filled with different highlights of the Tuscan cuisine during harvest season. From truffle hunts to wine tastings, and cheese farm tours to city visits and spa days - we had a full week with beautiful company. 

That almost wraps up the year until our New Year's retreat in Iceland, but we were also able to scout another amazing location getting added again to the schedule next year - the breathtaking island if Ischia, Italy. Neighbors with Capri and the Amalfi Coast, Ischia is one of our favorite places and we can't wait to bring guests there once again in 2015. 

Join us in ISCHIA in 2015! (click on the link for details)

Sept 20 - 26 :: Ischia, Italy

Stay tuned for more retreats to come in the new year. Join our newsletter HERE to get first notifications when new dates are added. 

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU IN 2015! 

2014 : What a Year! (part 1)

I know we're not quite all the way through this year, and as we're still looking forward to the holiday season and to our final retreat of 2014 to ring in the New Year in Iceland under the Northern Lights, I thought it's a good time to stop and reflect on the amazing year it's been thus far.

This year we began the season in Marrakesh, Morocco at our amazing location of Peacock Pavilions - a "do good boutique hotel" in an olive grove outside the city. There were two amazing weeks there, one classic itinerary and one luxury retreat, filled with great guests as always. We also had two more weeks in Marrakesh this past September and began the "Give Back" retreat initiative, where we were able to donate over $800 to the Project Soar non-profit group that we've been working with at Peacock Pavilions. It was wonderful to be able to see the group of girls from the village again, and in September we also got to work with their mothers as well and see the difference that this project is making in their lives.

There are 3 Marrakesh retreats in 2015. Join us for a magical week and also to know you're giving back to an worth while cause! (click on the links for details)

Mar 8-14 :: Luxury Retreat

Mar 15-21 :: FORM+FOCUS Yoga/Art Retreat (only a few spots left!)

Sept 13-19 :: Classic Retreat

In May we headed to Provence, France for our second visit to the beautiful Cote d'Azur and enjoyed yoga, a visit to the islands of the southern French coast, wine-tastings, and joie de vivre! The very next week was spent with our premier week in Dubrovnik, Croatia and it was a week that exceeded everyone's expectations...bike rides through the wine country, secluded beaches with crystal clear water, yoga in the lush gardens, and the warm hospitality of the Croatian people.

We are returning to France and Croatia early summer 2015 and would love to have you join us! (click on the links for details)

May 31 - Jun 6 :: Dubrovnik, Croatia (only 1 room left!) 

Jun 7 -13 :: Provence, France (SOLD OUT)

These retreats were a great kick-off to the summer and fall that lay ahead...Stay tuned for part 2 where we'll update on how the summer and fall in Italy, Iceland, and Morocco went! 

TRAVELER TESTIMONY: Artful Adventurer (Marja, New York, NY)

Marja has made a full circle of friendship with EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats. As a long time friend of Sarah, she got to see from the outside what the excitement of an EPM yoga retreat was all about. After hearing about Sarah's experience in Italy, she signed up for a retreat of her own, a beautiful trip to Tuscany. As a stage actress, she has a lot of experience with travel and the arts, so we were excited to hear her thoughts on the retreat. Marja is a lovely woman, bringing grace, style and an infectious smile wherever she goes. We were so excited she got to experience the beauty of Italy.

Marja exploring village life in Tuscany

What drew you EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats? 

I consider myself an artist, a student of life, and a lover of exploration, travel, and simple pleasures. What drew me to Erin's retreat was the offer of a balanced, curated experience, one that incorporated relaxation, wellness, culture, and a touch of indulgence.

How did your trip compare to your expectations?

It’s important for me to have the local experience when I travel. I avoid  falling into the typical tourist itinerary of “See this! See that!" while missing the experience. Erin’s retreat nailed this balance.

YOGA amongst the artistry of Florence

What was it like to have Erin Lewis as a guide?

Erin is well traveled. She has not only acquired an understanding of many languages, but also relationships that let her provide her guests with access to artisanal crafts, food, and an insider's knowledge of the area.

What was the best part of your trip?

Staying in the Tuscan villa was relaxing and grounding, and a great sanctuary to come home to after a day of sightseeing or touring nearby Cortona or Siena.

What lasting impressions did you have? What stayed with you once you traveled home?

The best thing for me with Erin's retreat was the idea of balance. There is a lovely mix of enjoying oneself and having indulgence in doses while also being good to the body/mind.

Under the Tuscan sun, amongst the sunflowers

Thanks, Marja, for sharing your memories and your friendship. We can't wait to see you on your next retreat! 

TRAVELER TESTIMONY: Soul Sister (Erin--Charlotte, NC, USA)

This month we're happy to introduce you to our friend and repeat EPM guest, Erin W! She first came to a Marrakesh retreat several years ago and has since returned - but even better, we're honored to say that she has become such a good friend on top of that! It's one of the stories and connections that really embody what EPM is about - building, connecting, and growing in yourself and with others. Meeting guests for the first time at a retreat, being able to carry that over into friendships after the trip and seeing other guests do the same - it is one of our most favorite things here at EPM. Erin is a creative woman and avid traveller who is a true adventurer at heart. 

Erin and Erin

What made you decide to take this EAT.PRAY.MOVE yoga retreat?

I attended the Tuscany trip because of the amazing experience and friendships I made on my first EPM yoga retreat to Marrakech, Morocco.  Everything was so incredible I just had to have another vacation with EAT.PRAY.MOVE! 

How did your trip compare to your expectations?

Everyone dreams of a relaxing holiday in Tuscany, wandering through the beautiful rolling hills, drinking wine from local vineyards and eating fresh olives. Erin's EAT.PRAY.MOVE retreat did not disappoint! Tuscany is such a beautiful region of Italy, and the villa we stayed in was tucked right in its rolling hills with fantastic views of the surrounding area. I loved that the moment I arrived, a sense of calm and self overcame me.

Playing amongst the Tuscan architecture

What did you learn on your trip? Did anything surprise you?

This trip quickly became one of self discovery through yoga, art as meditation classes, museums and hillside explorations. It was truly a retreat and exactly what I needed!

 What was the best part of your trip?

One of my favorite moments from the trip was strolling through the streets of Cortina with the friends I'd made from Morocco and the new friends I'd made over the first few days in Italy... shopping, eating, exploring and laughing. Such a magical time. 

Making friends in the countryside

What lasting impressions did you have? 

This retreat was a much needed getaway for me, and I knew from experience that I was in good hands with Erin.  Erin, who I am lucky to know and have become friends with, has such a talent for finding the best spots (to eat, see, experience) and creating the opportunity for the most memorable moments to enjoy and then to carry with you wherever life takes you. I can't wait for my next EPM retreat...maybe Iceland!

Thanks, Erin, for your sharing your time, thoughts and friendship. We can't wait to see you on your next retreat!  

TRAVELER TESTIMONY: Sunny Sojourner (Susanna - Maryland, USA)

We are so excited to introduce you to another one of our EAT.PRAY.MOVE repeat guests, Susanna! She is from Maryland, USA, and she has now joined us for FOUR different retreats (to Tuscany, Ischia, Marrakesh and Provence). We caught up with her and asked about her experiences. While she has loved every retreat, she says Tuscany really stuck out for her as a special trip. Susanna has added such fun and laughter to each group and connects with guests with her inspiring personal stories. She clearly has a heart that is full of joy and adventure!

What drew you to EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats? 

I was doing some research on different yoga retreats and most of them were the same, just on a different Carribean Island. Then I came across the EAT.PRAY.MOVE retreat in Tuscany. I thought it was really orginal and somewhere I've alway dreamed of visiting. I signed up right away and have been on 4 different retreats so far! I can't wait to sign up for my next one!

A beautiful view in Tuscany

How did the trip compare to your expectations?  

The trip exceeded all my expectations. We stayed in a breathtaking villa in Tuscany, Italy. All the activities and sightseeing tours were already planned, so there was no stress of where to go and what to do. I got to meet the most amazing women from all over the world and different walks of life.  

What did you learn on your trip? Did anything surprise you?  

I learned how much I really love to travel and learn about different cultures and people. I was really surprised at how much you can learn and have in common with women of all ages and different backgrounds.

Yoga fun at Castello Aragonese in Ischia

What was it like to have Erin Lewis as a guide? 

Erin was an amazing guide! She did all the research and found the best places to eat, what's important and interesting to see, and she found the perfect balance of sightseeing, shopping and relaxation. The most important thing for Erin is that everybody is enjoying themselves.  She puts her whole heart into planning these retreats, and you can feel that every day that you're there with her. Not to mention the fact that she's a fantastic yoga instructor! 

What was the best part of your trip?  

The best part of the trips were the people that I met and the friendships that I've built while experiencing the most beautiful places in the world. 

Overlooking beautiful Italian waters

What lasting impressions did you have?  What stayed with you once you traveled home? 

There isn't a week that goes by that I don't think of an experience or a person from one of the retreats. Those moments will be with me forever, and they are priceless. Taking these amazing adventures has made me change my perspective on what's important in life and what's just not worth stressing about. I can't say enough great things about EAT.PRAY.MOVE and Erin Lewis.  

Susanna, we are so grateful for your thoughts and time. It's travelers like you that keep us inspired to create and to give great experiences. Thank you for being a part of the EAT.PRAY.MOVE family, and we can't wait to see you on another retreat!

TRAVELER TESTIMONY :: Thoughtful Adventurer (Rebecca - Massachusetts, USA)

We love catching up with our past guests and hearing about their experiences on our retreats, and this month we were lucky enough to talk to Rebecca!  She hails from Massachusetts, and has joined us for retreats in Marrakesh and Tuscany.  We love her enthusiasm and adventurous nature!

Rebecca on a mule trek in the Atlas Mountains

What drew you to EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats?

I love the idea of combining travel and yoga...they are 2 of my favorite things in life!  I came across EAT.PRAY.MOVE on a blog, and after exploring the website and seeing what was in store for the retreat, I knew I had to attend one.  Marrakech was my second retreat with Erin, and my first was in Tuscany.  I loved everything about the Tuscany retreat, so making a decision to go on another was a piece of cake.  I chose the Marrakech retreat because it's somewhere I wanted to visit, but not necessarily on my own.  I knew I'd be in good hands and would get the opportunity to practice yoga, and see and do a variety of things.

How did your trip compare to your expectations?

After the wonderful Tuscany retreat I had high expectations because it was THAT awesome!  Marrakech not only held up, but exceeded my expectations.  Erin does a wonderful job of scouting out the best places to visit and things to do. It was a diverse itinerary and a great balance of yoga and exploring. 

What did you learn on your trip? Did anything surprise you?

I learned a lot about Morocco in general that I was not aware of before.  It opened me eyes to the culture and history.

yoga fun on the rooftop in Marrakesh

What was it like to have Erin Lewis as a guide? 

Erin is an amazing guide and person...she's outstanding at what she does.  She always had our best interest in mind and makes sure things run smoothly, but with an easy going attitude.  She also has a great sense of humor, which I think is so important when you're a guide and having to deal with others and situations that might not always go as planned. 

 What was the best part of your trip?

It's really tough to choose one part.  One of my favorites was the spa day at Les Bains de Marrakesh.  Ahhh, I was in total bliss.  Another favorite part of the trip for me was the food.  Everyday was different...so fresh and delicious!  

What lasting impressions did you have?   

This retreat definitely made an impression on me and I know I will attend another retreat in the future. We watched a short film about Project Soar, which is an organization founded by the owners of Peacock Pavilions.  It's goal is to "help under-served communities to soar a little higher through art, design and renovation projects, as well as through sports and health education."  Learning about this project and about the people it serves definitely put my perspective in check.  It's something that stayed with me.

The amazing set of travelers on Rebecca's Marrakesh adventure

Thank you, Rebecca for sharing your memories with us!  Even more, thank you for continuing to share your travels and time with EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats.  We are grateful to include you as a part of the incredible extended community we have here, and we can't wait to see you on another retreat!

Five Senses Yoga Retreat - New Collaboration in FLORENCE, ITALY

I'm excited to announce a new collaboration with a good friend, and fellow yoga-instructor living in Florence, Italy for this summer! We'll be joining forces to offer a special 5-day event - unlike any other, which will give guests an unforgettable experience of the Renaissance City of Firenze - it's art, history, fashion, and food - along with daily yoga, meditation and unique activities for the senses.

FLORENCE, ITALY :: JULY 7-11, 2014

Early Bird Discount : Save €100 until Apr 30!

This five day retreat will concentrate on one of the senses per day. Join us in Florence, Italy for an adventure for the FIVE SENSES. We will SEE the sites of this amazing city on a walking tour through hidden and "behind-the-scenes" looks at artisan workshops, famous art works, and more. Next, we learn to FEEL our bodies more with a biking tour through the Chianti and Tuscan hillsides - sun on our shoulders, wind in our hair, and wine on our tongues. Then it's time to SMELL the scents of an aromatherapy massage at a day at the spa, next to an aromatic garden and then a visit to a Florentine perfumery where we learn to create custom essences before learning to smell the 'notes' of a wine tasting! Then we HEAR the sounds of the city from a meditative walk, a visit to a hilltop church with Gregorian chants sung by the monks at sunset, and then to a Florentine concert to end the evening. Lastly, we can't experience Italy without the TASTE of the Tuscan cuisine. Our week will end with a market tour to choose ingredients for a final cooking demo and full tasting lunch before it's "a dopo! (until next time!)

“We love what we do. And we are so thrilled to share this memorable experience with you.”  –Erin and Shari, Creators of Five Senses Yoga Retreat

Find out all the details HERE. We hope to meet you in Florence!