You want time for self and self-
reflection in an inspirational
destination close to nature.
But you also want the ultimate in
creature comforts.
Where to go:
The intimate Four Seasons Safari Lodge,
Serengeti has recently introduced The Lone Ranger
Package with the highlight being an educational,
90-minute walking safari guided by a resident
naturalist, a Maasai guide and a park ranger.
Other elements included in the package are group yoga
with an inspirational view of the Serengeti plains, and a
cooking class focusing on local cuisine and led by one
of the resident chefs.
A small spa offers treatments that feature the benefits of
local plants, minerals and healing rituals. An elevated,
open-air sundeck affords beautiful views of the
Serengeti, and guests can relax poolside perhaps to
watch a family of elephants peacefully graze, just feet
away. The lodge offers ample opportunity to carve out
time for quiet self-reflection in a place embraced by the
sights and sounds of nature.
You want to learn to be more mindful
and learn ways to manage daily stress
with a new routine.
Where to go:
Yoga, meditation, vegetarian cuisine
and the opportunity to interact with local instructors
outside of daily sessions makes Shreyas Retreat an ideal
spot to witness first hand the calming and mindful
ways of living with the yoga philosophy as a core value.
An upscale Relais & Chateau property in Bangalore,
India, Shreyas Retreat offers year-round, customized
yoga programs, in the midst of 20 acres of tranquil
natural setting including a large expanse of organic
gardens plus a jogging trail.
Guests discover ways to practice mindful moments
including meditation, helping with gardening chores,
attending a chanting class or simply strolling around
this natural environment. In keeping with authentic
and holistic ashram-style yoga principles, meals are
strictly vegetarian and there is a “no alcohol” policy.
1.
What is my intention? What do I need from this
retreat and what to I hope to achieve?
2.
Do I want a self-administered retreat or more of a
structured/guided, program? Look to your particular
intention to help you decide what may best suit your
needs and goals. Kick-starting a weight loss program,
for instance, may require a more defined itinerary
with assistance from wellness professionals.
3.
What is my one must have? And, what else do I
want/need from this retreat to allow me to return
home feeling refreshed, rebooted and with a greater
sense of well-being?
4.
What stresses me most? Perhaps it is long flights, or
noisy family-style resorts, or hotels that are too large
or too formal to allow for your personal sense-of-
comfort. Avoid the major items on your list of travel
stress triggers. Then “don’t sweat the small stuff.”
5.
Who do I want to travel with? Unless the goal
involves spending quality time with other people
(significant other, family or friends) a wellness retreat
can be all about you. It’s the most personal type of
vacation. So keep that in mind when choosing your
travel mate(s). Sometimes “solo” is the way to go.
When it comes to wellness retreats there is something
to suit every goal, taste and interest. Here are just a few
sample intentions combined with special interests,
followed by a suggestion on where you might find what
you’re looking for in 2016.
ADJACENT PAGE
(clockwise from top)
Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Serengeti’s
Terrace Suite; a Maasai guide at Four Seasons Safari Lodge,
Serengeti; Shreyes Retreat’s meditation machans and huts,
surrounded by coconut and chickoo trees; Shreyes Retreat’s
Poolside Cottages.
Unless the goal involves spending
quality time with other people
(significant other, family or
friends) a wellness retreat can
be all about you.
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THE AFFLUENT TRAVELER
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Well-Being
WELL-BEING
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