That said, as wise travelers we need to be aware so we can identify possible issues while traveling. Just be because you are staying in a 5 star hotel that is no guarantee that you will be free of bed bugs. Having the ability to identify potential risks will make the difference between a wonderful vacation and feeling like a flea-bitten dog!

One of the more effective methods of avoidance is by looking. A great habit to get into is leaving your luggage outside the door or your room and going in for an inspection.

By taking up the sheets, you can get a good idea if your mattress is infested by looking for the following signs: squished bed bugs on the mattress, tiny areas of dried blood, an odd kind of sweet smell, and little piles of brownish-red bug poop.

Bed bugs are nocturnal so you may not see them during the day, but you might catch them wedged into the mattress creases sleeping. They are normally brownish as adults, oval in shape and flat. They can be 1/8 up to 1/4 of an inch in length – and they are patient, waiting for a nice warm body to lie down so they can have dinner. Those bed bug bites are pretty itchy, but they are not carriers of disease.

All in all a few bites are harmless enough, the problem is once you open your suitcase in your room you potentially become a transport system for bed bugs into your own home. That is how they have managed to infest NYC, being found in movie theaters, hotels, and even darkened restaurants and clubs. We’re like a free airline ticket anywhere!

As always, prevention is the best medicine – so it is up to you to do your best to check your surroundings. This is nothing to be embarrassed about – most bell-hops are aware of this and know that people are asking for a couple of minutes to check the room. Vacations should be delightful – and this is one way to make sure you don’t take your vacation home with you!

• Daily breakfast and 9 dinners are included for the land itinerary.
• 9 nights double occupancy for the land itinerary.
• All ceremonies, rituals, dance and music demonstrations.
• All spiritual teachings are included.
• All tips for the waiters, drivers and guides are included.
• All excursions are included and entrance fees are included for our sites.
• Donation to the Whirling Dervishes.
• Air conditioned motor-coach ground transportation.

What’s Not-Included:

• Your round-trip air flight to and from Istanbul.
• Your drinks are not included.
• Your visa IF necessary from your country.

Regarding Flights: Feel free to make your own flights, but please confirm them with us before booking. If you need help – no worries, Ales in Custom Travel is our travel guru – feel free to ring him at: 604-204-0444 or email him and it will be his pleasure to assist you!

This schedule is tentative! Due the remote areas we are traveling to, weather, bad roads and other unseen obstacles may cause us to make changes in the schedule or to visit different sites. We understand that if this happens we were not meant to be where we were going!

The actual schedule of spiritual teachings and what we will be doing day to day is not published. This is because we teach by channeling spirit which comes in the moment. Every day will be a magical experience for all of us, teachers included! Keep you heart and mind open to the experience life brings us.

On this spiritual journey our intent is to create sacred space where we can learn and share in group for the purpose of transcending our ego-minds and deepening our spiritual connections. The power of our teachings (please make sure you align with the group leader’s philosophy) and ceremonies comes from our combined energy and if group process does not interest you, then this trip would not be your best choice.

A deposit of $700.00 USD along with a completed registration form must be submitted to reserve your space (preferred by: February 1st, 2011). Final payment is due: March 1st, 2011. Any cancellation made in writing between: February 1st, 2011 and March 1st, 2011 will result in a cancellation fee of $700.00 USD. Any cancellation made between: March 1st, 2011 and the trip departure will result in a total loss of your $700.00 USD deposit along with any non-refundable funds made to our suppliers in Turkey. Any cancellation made: after the trip departs will result in total loss of trip funds. We reserve the right to cancel the trip if it is not meeting the trip minimum. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended to cover such issues. You can use our suggested travel insurance company online and choose from several policy options.

If you’ve found this trip after the registration date – no worries! Give us a call and we’ll do our best to get you on the trip.

If you prefer not to make payments online, please give us a ring at 727-421-0849 or Skype Sheri at “sheripod.” Checks are also welcome as long as your check has enough time to clear before the trip departure date. Money orders can be used otherwise. We look forward to sharing this amazing adventure with you!

Please know that we are happy to create a monthly payment plan for you – but do note that you must be paid in full by the departure date. Simply email us and we can charge a specific amount monthly to your Master Card or Visa credit card.

• Place your deposit online below (your deposit holds your spot). Money orders and checks are also welcome (as long as your check has enough time to clear before the trip departure date). Many journeys do offer a cash/check discount and if you want to take advantage of that simply mail your check to: Journeys of the Spirit, 6245 Vista Verde Dr W, Gulfport, FL 33707.
• Download and fill out the trip application forms below
• Problems with registration? Call us: 727.421.0849, email us, or Skype Sheri at “sheripod.”

You can register here with our secure online store. When you hit the grey Add to Cart button, your selection will immediately go in the shopping cart. Continue to checkout.

Coming Soon

FINISHED? GO TO CHECKOUT NOW!

You may print each form separately, or download all 7 forms at the same time and then print them from your computer. All the documents are in Adobe PDF format. If you don’t have Acrobat Reader in your computer (most people do), please go to Adobe to download it. (Forms not posted yet!)

• Dear Spiritual Traveler
• Please Don’t Forget Me List
• Statement of Health
• Trip Application
• Limitation of Liability
• Release of Liability
• Terms & Conditions
• Download ALL forms together

Dr. Susan Gregg had the privilege to apprentice with Don Miguel Ruiz, author of The Four Agreements and his mother Sarita in the 80’s. She’s also certified Reiki Teacher and Karuna® Master. In addition, Susan has been studying ancient Hawaiian Spirituality with Mahealani Kuamo’o-Henry – a Kumu ‘Elele (teacher and messenger) for her ancestors. With deep gratitude to her mentors, she shares this powerful combination and synthesis of teachings with all of us.

Susan pinpoints a survived suicide attempt (doctors were amazed she lived after ingesting cyanide) as the turning point in her life. She realized at a profound level that she could no longer run from life’s problems and that there are no outside solutions. Susan became willing to do whatever it took to create happiness and personal freedom for herself. Since then she has dedicated her life to helping people creating a life filled with happiness, love and abundance. Susan believes it is our birthright to be happy and she teaches them to find their peace no matter what is happening in their life.

In addition, Susan is the author of nine books including The Toltec Way. Her two most recent books are The Encyclopedia of Angels, Spirit Guides and Ascended Masters, and The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of Magical Plants. Born and raised in NYC she has a BA in Math and a doctorate in Clinical Hypnotherapy.

Susan recently moved to the Big Island of Hawaii (after living on Oahu for many years) where she swims with the dolphins and turtles she sees while scuba diving. Visit her website: www.susangregg.com

TAKE ME TO: Our Next 2 Spiritual Journeys & Retreats
Sheri’s Article | Our Favorite Recommendations, Books & Videos | Ales’ Cool Travel Tips!
Our Upcoming Journeys | Favorite Quote!

Dear Friends,

Join us at Akal•Ki Spa on Lake Bacalar in the Mayan Yucatan Jan 9-15th!

What’s new? Our Deeksha/Oneness Blessing & Mala-Making Retreat: Jan 9-15th! This special journey will take place in the southern Mayan Yucatan and will celebrate Sri Amma Bhagavan’s wish that as “…as we move into 2012 itself, we will begin to gather together—meditating and sharing the Blessing—and taking advantage of certain planetary energies to enter into higher states of consciousness.“ Whether in India or Mexico – the same idea exists that we embrace self-realization and divine consciousness. Email me if you are interested (this will fill quickly).

**As a reminder: this is the last second to sign up for HAVASUPAI FALLS and PERU. Also – if you would like to join us for DAY OF THE DEAD and BHUTAN, registration is NOW.

This month’s article is: CONFRONTATION VS CONVERSATION? - do let me know what you think by posting your comments below (they won’t show up until approved) and please Tweet us to others!

I want to know where YOU want to go for your next spiritual journey or retreat! Please help me help create the perfect journey for you by taking a moment to answer this TRAVEL SURVEY. Thank you!!

Also, please don’t forget about Ales – he is always ready to help you with your personal travel needs!

Blessings and love, Sheri Rosenthal
Email: info@sherirosenthal.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sherirosenthal
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Sheri_Rosenthal

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OUR NEXT SPIRITUAL JOURNEYS

LAST SECOND TO REGISTER!
HAVASUPAI FALLS GRAND CANYON: Living Fearlessly – September 8-13th, 2010

The focus and intent of our Havasupai Falls retreat with Sheri Rosenthal is to transcend any fears we have about what we can or cannot accomplish in our lives. Cradled within the depths of the Grand Canyon and the heart of the mother earth – she will help us find our peace and clarity. We’ll hike, swim in travertine pools of turquoise blue, meditate, journal and participate in ceremony together.

This journey will leave you with a sense of accomplishment, awe and a true appreciation and love of the grandest places on earth. 2010 trip cost is: $2095.00 USD pp double occ, most meals included. Details for Havasupai Falls here!

LAST CALL – REGISTRATION IS NOW!
ZION NATIONAL PARK: Art & Spirit Painting Retreat – October 23-27th, 2010

Unleash your creative spirit amidst the breathtaking beauty of Zion National Park. Through guided visualizations, meditation and dreamwork, shamanic artist Linda Jacobson will help you access your artistic vision. Through personalized individual guidance and group demonstrations of art techniques you’ll learn to express your personal imagery inspired by the extraordinary beauty of the landscape.

In this workshop you will create free flowing spontaneous imagery, draw from nature and develop sketches into finished works. You will learn about color, paint handling and composition through discussions and demonstrations of acrylic, watercolor and pastel techniques. No prior art experience necessary – everyone is welcome, beginning and advanced artists. The 2010 trip cost is: $995.00 USD per person, double occupancy. Details for Zion here!

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EVENTS & WORKSHOPS

NEXT FREE TELECLASS!

September 15th 8:30pm eastern, 5:30 pacific: Join Sheri and Linda Jacobson as they chat about Art & Spirit, and what that means to us and our creative life process! Linda is the incredible woman running our Zion Nation Park  retreat – and she’ll have some very interesting information to share! Don’t miss this special dialogue.

DID YOU MISS ONE OF OUR TELECLASSES?

If you missed any of the previous teleclasses you can listen them on the library page of my website.

NEED SOME CLARITY & A NEW POINT OF VIEW?

Join me in 2010 for a personal intensive! These intensives will take place in my town-home in St Petersburg, Florida (yes, the location has changed!). It’s a lovely place to take time to reflect upon your life and walking on the beach is beautiful and peaceful. You will stay here (or at a hotel on the beach) during your intensive and have access to the kitchen and your own bedroom. Figure we’ll spend around 3 hours together in the morning and then you’ll do your assignments in the afternoon. Then we’ll catch back up for 1-2 hours in the evening to re-cap. Details here.

LOCAL MEETINGS IN ST PETE, FL RESUMING!

Join us for lively discussion and like-minded community September 7th and 20th 7-9:00pm! We work together to create a dream of love and respect in our lives using the Toltec technique of mirroring. In this way we can see ourselves more clearly and confront those beliefs that have been holding us back from creating a dream of loveliness in our lives. Want to join us? Call or email Sheri. The tuition/suggested donation is $10.00.
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FEATURED ARTICLE

CONFRONTATION OR CONVERSATION?

One of humanity’s biggest fears is that of confrontation. So often when feeling like someone is in our face, we don’t speak our feelings and then we’re angry afterward. Our anger can then manifest as passive-aggressive behavior. But truly it’s not about dealing with our behavior or learning to speak up that’s the underlying issue – it’s what we believe about confrontation.

Picture thanks to Jordan Fisher @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/jordanfischer/

Impeccability of the word is the key to creating a beautiful and healthy life dream. So it behooves us to look at the word confrontation since we create our reality with the word. A common definition is: An open conflict of opposing ideas, forces, creeds, etc. When we feel like someone is raising their voice to us, disagreeing with us, getting angry or doing their best to make us feel small – we call that confrontation.

Now let’s look at the word conversation. A common definition is: An interchange of thoughts, information, etc., by spoken words; oral communication between persons; talk. Here we are referring to an exchange of ideas, it doesn’t matter if they are opposing or not – as this definition implies that the communication is non-aggressive.

What makes conversation aggressive is our attachment to concepts. When we believe that we’re right and we’re willing defend our beliefs, thought forms, points of views and opinions to the point of anger – that’s mental slavery. We’re being ruled by what we believe and anything that doesn’t align with what we believe frightens us. The structure of our ego-mind is shaking and we’ll do anything to protect that structure.

Picture thanks to Richard Fisher @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/richardfisher/

George Barnard Shaw once said; “Our ideals like the Gods of old, are constantly demanding sacrifices.” Shaw’s got a good point – as soon as you start to defend your point of view you are at war. Of course concepts cannot fight a war, only humans can, and they’re the ones who are going to be sacrificed. It’s scary to think the mind can be so attached to its beliefs that it will project its anger out at others and even harm them to protect those concepts!

Human consciousness expands when we share ideas without attachment. People die when we want to be right and protect our ego mind’s structure. When someone starts arguing with you, understand that there’s no confrontation at all – you’re simply dealing with a frightened person projecting anger, it has nothing to do with you. Confrontation can only occur when two sets of ideals are in conflict. When you no longer need to defend your mental structure the whole concept of confrontation no longer is truth.

I’m not saying you shouldn’t express your point of view in life. I am only suggesting that you share it without attachment knowing that there is nothing to be afraid of if someone does not agree with you. Have compassion for the person who is making him or herself ill defending a concept that they are so attached to. Speak your peace, detach and let go.

Truly, there is only conversation, and it is up to you to create that reality based on where you place your faith. It’s your choice – you can put your faith in conversation and uphold the expansion of consciousness or you can put your faith in confrontation and the conflict of rigidly held beliefs and points of view that you are too scared of detaching from. I don’t know about you, but I know where I’m placing my faith!

With all my love, Sheri

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RECOMMENDED BOOK OF THE MONTH

Art Is a Spiritual Path

Art is a spiritual path—not a religion, but a practice that helps us knit together the ideals and convictions that guide our lives. Creating art can be prayer, ritual, and remembrance of the Divine. And the sharing of this creativity with others in small groups can serve as sanctuary, asylum, ashram, therapy group, think tank, and village square. Pat Allen has developed a reliable guide for walking the path of art through a series of simple practices that combine drawing, painting, and sculpture with journal writing.

Detailed examples from the author’s own practice of art, plus the stories and images of several other people, are presented to illustrate how art becomes a spiritual path in action. At the author’s virtual studio, www.patballen.com, readers can post their images and writings, communicate with the author, and subscribe to an electronic newsletter. The site also contains an archive of the images in this book in full color. Pick up a copy today: Art Is a Spiritual Path When you purchase a book through Amazon.com a small percentage of your dollars come back to JOTS to support our free teleclass series.

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SPIRITUAL CINEMA CIRCLE

If You Love Movies, You Are About to Be Inspired AND Entertained!

When you join Spiritual Cinema Circle you will be making an important contribution to your world. You are encouraging talented, visionary filmmakers to continue in their efforts to add life and meaning to our movies and to raise the consciousness of the world by supporting and experiencing truly nourishing entertainment.

In What Goes Around (U.S. & Canada): Alex, a real estate agent, lives in the shadow of the debts he piled up during the happy days of the 21st century. He sees life as an endless struggle against all he abhors — ignorant baristas, pop music and grammatical mistakes — and he alienates his family with his “honesty” and impatience. Now Alex must battle his callous personality in a divine game show in order to win back his life after a car crash.

Great news from our friends at Spiritual Cinema Circle – you can receive this full feature film plus 3 great short films for FREE when you sign up for a trial membership at no charge. ($4.95 US shipping fee applies, $7.95 international). This is the only DVD service dedicated to films about love, compassion and inspiration: one of the many reasons we wanted you to know about them. Cancel your membership at any time ($21.00 per month). Join the Circle today! When you join Spiritual Cinema Circle a small percentage of your dollars come back to JOTS to support our free teleclass series.

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OUR MENU OF UPCOMING FABULOUS ADVENTURES!

~TASTY SEPTEMBER SOJOURNS~

HAVASUPAI FALLS - Grand Canyon: Living Fearlessly
Trip Leader: Sheri Rosenthal
September 8-13th, 2010

~BOLD OCTOBER EXPEDITIONS~

PERU & MACHU PICCHU: Andean Mysteries
Trip Leaders: Carol Rydell & Romulo Castilla
Oct. 21-31th, 2010

ZION NATIONAL PARK, Art & Spirit Painting Retreat
Trip Leader: Linda Jacobson
October 23-27th, 2010

DAY OF THE DEAD, Oaxaca Mexico: A Celebration of Life!
Trip Leaders: Sheri Rosenthal
October 30th-November 7th, 2010

~DELICIOUS DECEMBER JOURNEYS~

TEOTIHUACÁN, MEXICO: Un Viaje de Sanacion
Trip Leader: Millie Muñoz
8 al 13 de diciembre del 2010

BHUTAN: Blessings of the Heart, Meditation & Service
Trip Leader: Sheri Rosenthal
December 9-21st, 2010

~HEART-WARMING JANUARY ADVENTURES~

MAYAN YUCATAN: Deeksha/Oneness Blessing & Mala-Making
Trip Leader: Charlene Proctor & Sheri Rosenthal
January 9-15th, 2011

~REFRESHING FEBRUARY RETREATS~

PATAGONIA ARGENTINA: Communion, Integration & Transcendence
Trip Leader: Sheri Rosenthal
Feb 19-26th, 2011

BAJA MEXICO: Majestic Grey Whales – Whale Watching
Trip Leader: Susan Gregg
February 9-14th, 2011

TEPOZTLÁN, MEXICO: Sacred Valley of Magic & Mysticism
Trip Leader: Susan Gregg
February 14-19th, 2011

~SUCCULENT MARCH VOYAGES~

EGYPT: Bridging Levels of Consciousness
Trip Leader: Samvedam Randles
March 3-13th, 2011

CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA: Atmanada Yoga’s Mind Body Spirit Retreat
Trip Leader: Jhon Tamayo
March 5-11th, 2011

ISRAEL: Liberating the Divine Mystic Within
Trip Leaders: Paul Rademacher & Sheri Rosenthal
March 19-29th, 2011

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ALES’ COOL TIP OF THE MONTH!

MAKING EVERY TRIP A SPECIAL JOURNEY

We’re at the end of August here in British Colombia and I can smell autumn already! Somehow I feel this year speeding by – maybe it’s just because folks are planning their Christmas vacations already (I’m planning mine too). Whatever the reason, it has me reflecting on the hopes, dreams and intent I set in motion back in January. I feel a deep sense of gratitude for everything that happened and all that is to come.

Most of all I have gratitude for myself and the way I have taken care of myself in the mist of the chaos of life this year. Every day at work I’ve made time to meditate and reflect. At night I take an evening walk, thanking the universe for the gifts of the day.

The trips I’ve taken this year, both with my son and by myself, have been powerful opportunities to stay present and in the moment and to celebrate the perfection of life.

When traveling, I make sure that I always have time put aside to connect with myself and my surroundings – to center myself and clear my mind. Even the simple choice to take a suite over a standard room recently was a gift to myself – allowing me to rejuvenate during my travels with my son and his friends. I have come to realize that every trip is a spiritual journey and it is only my perspective that makes it otherwise.

My suggestion is, no matter what the purpose of your travels, try to listen to yourself and always include something that inspires your body, mind and spirit. If you make the effort to do so, every trip you take will become a special one and you will feel lighter, clearer, more at peace, nourished and inspired!

Whether near or far, every place we visit and each journey we take brings us closer to who we are – as long as we travel with awareness, an open mind and heart. If you need suggestions as to how to turn a business trip or family adventure into a spiritual journey – ask me! I am happy to assist you in finding gratitude and inspiration in every travel experience you have.

With love & blessings, Ales Stuna, Director of Custom Travel

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WHAT I LOVE – LOVE – LOVE THIS MONTH!

Take a moment to watch this video!

Ariely has long been fascinated with how emotional states, moral codes and peer pressure affect our ability to make rational and often extremely important decisions in our daily lives – across a spectrum of our interests, from economic choices (how should I invest?) to personal (who should I marry?). At Duke, he’s aligned with three departments (business, economics and cognitive neuroscience); he’s also a visiting professor in MIT’s Program in Media Arts and Sciences and a founding member of the Center for Advanced Hindsight. His hope that studying and understanding the decision-making process can help people lead better, more sensible daily lives. (Gosh I hope so too!)

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FAVORITE QUOTE OF THE MONTH

Join us in Bhutan Dec 9-21st!

Words of Wisdom for the Heart

“You need the practice of mindfulness to bring your mind back to the body and establish yourself in the moment. If you are fully present, you need only make a step or take a breath in order to enter the kingdom of God. And once you have the kingdom, you don’t need to run after objects of your craving, like power, fame, sensual pleasure, and so on. Peace is possible. Happiness is possible. And this practice is simple enough for everyone to do. Suppose you are drinking a cup of tea. When you hold your cup, you may like to breathe in, to bring your mind back to your body, and you become fully present. And when you are truly there, something else is also there—life, represented by the cup of tea. In that moment you are real, and the cup of tea is real. You are not lost in the past, in the future, in your projects, in your worries. You are free from all of these afflictions. And in that state of being free, you enjoy your tea. That is the moment of happiness, and of peace.”

~ Thich Nhat Hanh

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To take you deeper into the experience of what it is like to slowly sail down one of the worlds beautiful rivers, I have chosen 2 itineraries to give you an idea what each day on a river cruise can look like and show you all the beautiful sights and sounds you will experience. River Cruises are also a wonderful way to spend time together with your best friends, your favorite club or create an unforgettable family reunion.
Whether it’s a journey for just yourself or a group of friends, I would love to chat with you about all the amazing options that are available and create a truly memorable experience for you.

Since I was born and grew up in Europe, this is a part of the world that is close to my heart and I would like to begin by introducing 2 itineraries; one in Germany and Austria and the other in France.

Christmastime in Germany & Austria

Day 1 Vienna, Austria (Embarkation)

Welcome to Vienna, Austria’s romantic capital! This afternoon, board your river cruise vessel and meet your crew at a WELCOME RECEPTION.

Day 2 Vienna

Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy on your city tour. You do not rush through Vienna—you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. Soak up the atmosphere of the Adventszeit (Advent season) and spend some time in the beautiful Christmas markets located throughout the city.

Day 3 Dürnstein–Melk

This morning, enjoy a guided walk around Dürnstein, known for the magnificent baroque STIFTSKIRCHE with its blue façade. After lunch, visit the magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY that dominates the town of Melk from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening you’ll sample some of the region’s FAMOUS WINES.

Day 4 Linz–Passau, Germany

Linz, Austria’s third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights as well as more Christmas cheer—the traditional carols, the sparkling lights, and the smell of candles and gingerbread. Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes.

Day 5 Regensburg

Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights on your guided tour include the Old Town Hall, the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL, and the Porta Pretoria—gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The Christmas market is located on the historic market square. Germany is famous for its sausages, and Regensburg is home to the country’s oldest restaurant—Historische Wurstküche (the Historical Sausage Kitchen), dating back to the 12th century.

Day 6 Nuremberg

Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses, all explained by a local expert. Nuremberg hosts Germany’s most famous Christmas market, which dates back to 1628. The Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations. The city’s traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. After dinner we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s FAMOUS BEERS.

Day 7 Nuremberg–Excursion to Munich

After breakfast, drive to Munich, where a Local Expert will proudly show you the sights of the Bavarian capital. An inspiring mix of historic buildings and impressive architecture, you’ll see the Olympic Stadium, 1,000-foot-high Television Tower, Nymphenburg Palace, MARIENPLATZ in the historic heart of the city with the Old and New Town Halls, and the gothic Frauenkirche. Later, there’s free time to explore on your own. The traditional Christmas market is located on the Marienplatz, with aromas of toasted almonds, roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread filling the air and the strains of alpine Christmas music coming from the town hall. At the nearby Rindermarkt, you’ll find the Kripperlmarkt, one of the largest markets in Germany specializing in mangers and other nativity accessories. And don’t leave Munich without paying a visit to the famous Hofbräuhaus for a stein of beer! Return to your ship in the late afternoon.

Day 8 Nuremberg

A day to relax and enjoy Nuremberg at your own pace. Stroll through the festively lit streets, write those last-minute postcards, or ask your Cruise Director for suggestions of things to do.

Day 9 Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage medieval site. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the OLD TOWN HALL straddling the River Regnitz, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. At this time of year the town is decked out for Christmas and especially interesting are the many nativity scenes that are built by local citizens and exhibited throughout the town.

Day 10 Würzburg. Excursion to Rothenburg

Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP’S RESIDENZ is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, set off on the most scenic section of the Romantic Road to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This ancient walled city, with its ramparts, fountains and cobbled lanes, is steeped in history. Although known for its year-round Christmas market, the real one at this time of the year is an experience not to be missed. Try a Schneeball (snowball), a local specialty that is not at all suitable for a diet!

Day 11 Wertheim–Miltenberg

This morning, stop in Wertheim, whose overlapping half-timbered houses are grouped along winding streets. Glassblowers have a long tradition in this town and, especially in winter, they produce decorations that hang on Christmas trees all over the world. Marvel at the tasteful Christmas decorations in the shop windows and stroll through the charming Christmas market. Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and renaissance houses and the gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall shown to you during your guided walk. The town center is within walking distance of the ship, as is the Christmas market. Before lunch, learn how to bake a local SOFT COOKIE specialty.

Day 12 Frankfurt (Disembarkation)

Today you will board your homebound flight or enjoy a few extra days in Europe.

Paris & the Heart of Normandy

Combine the magic of Paris with the beauty of France’s Norman countryside and voilà! Experience history firsthand at the Normandy beaches, site of the famous Allied invasion on D-Day in 1944. Delight in the Gothic architecture of Rouen, and see where Joan of Arc was tried and executed. Lose yourself in the exquisite gardens of Giverny, whose rich palette inspired Impressionist Claude Monet for many years. Walk the cobblestone streets of provincial Vernon and share the splendor of Paris, the world’s most romantic city, with your companion. This fascinating 8-day journey has something for everyone.

Day 1 Paris

Arrive in Paris, romance capital of the world. We meet you at the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris and transfer you to your ship.* After boarding, take free time to explore Paris—or join our “welcome walk” to stretch your legs and start getting oriented.

Day 2 Paris

Wake up to a full day in Paris. After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour of this beautiful city and take in its most remarkable sights, including the iconic Eiffel Tower. Continue past the École Militaire, Orsay Museum and Latin Quarter. See the Cathedral of Notre Dame, then drive past the Louvre and Opera House and along the famous Champs Elysées. Return aboard for lunch. Afternoon is free to visit the Louvre, shop the many boutiques, visit the artists’ district of Montmartre or enjoy a cruise along the Seine. As always, your Program Director can help you plan your free time. Dinner is served aboard.

Day 3 Giverny & Vernon

This morning, take a short ride into the town of Giverny, where Claude Monet lived from 1883 until his death in 1926. Visit the beautiful gardens and charming stone farmhouse where he lived and worked; see the water garden with its Japanese bridge, water lilies, wisteria and azaleas that inspired many of his masterpieces.

After lunch, we spend some time in the provincial town of Vernon. Take a stroll to see the Maison du Temps Jadis (House of Past Times), Vernon’s oldest house, and the 11th-century Church of Notre Dame. Dinner is served aboard.

Day 4 Rouen

Indulge in a leisurely morning cruising along the Seine. The afternoon is spent in the medieval city of Rouen, historic capital of Normandy. Begin with a walking tour through the old town center, where you see the spectacular Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral so often painted by Claude Monet and the famous Gros Horloge, a 16th-century astronomical clock. As you walk among the half-timbered buildings you feel yourself transported back through time. Finally, we visit the 14th-century courthouse where Joan of Arc was sentenced to death and the nearby Market Square where she was martyred. Take free time to discover more of Rouen or visit one of its museums of art or antiquities. Dine aboard, or visit a sidewalk café—your ship remains docked overnight.

Day 5 Normandy Beaches

After breakfast, begin your full-day tour to the historic beaches of Normandy. See World War II landmarks such as Pointe du Hoc monument, Omaha Beach, the American Military Cemetery and Arromanches Debarkment Museum. On the way back to the ship, pass Gold Beach, Courseulles sur Mer and Juno Beach. Have dinner and relax on board or take an evening stroll; we depart late tonight.

Day 6 Les Andelys & Conflans

Arrive this morning in the small town of Les Andelys, known for its imposing castle, Château Gaillard, built in 1196 by Richard Lionheart. Join a guided walk to this fatally flawed masterpiece of Middle Ages architecture. Return to your ship for lunch and afternoon cruising. This evening we dock in Conflans, a riverside town whose unique culture reflects its status as a local hub for barge transportation along the Seine and its tributaries.

Day 7 Conflans & Paris

After breakfast, take a walking tour through the charming neighborhoods of Conflans and visit its museum. Or, join an optional tour to the luxurious Palace of Versailles, former home of Louis XIV. Lunch aboard as you sail back to Paris this afternoon. Dine aboard and then enjoy some free time in the City of Light.

Day 8 Paris

After breakfast, disembark and we will take you to the Paris airport for your return flight or spend a few more days discovering Paris.

Samvedam Bettina Randles, Dipl. Psych. is a German Psychologist who graduated from Wilhelms-University in Muenster, Germany. In the US she is licensed as a mental health counselor and bodyworker. After training in traditional Psychology she spent several years in India studying and experiencing the Eastern approaches to inner growth and transformation.

She also has been trained in Wilhelm Reich’s methods of body oriented Psychotherapy, combining breath work with deep tissue massage work (Postural Integration) and became certified by the National Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. She co-founded the Center for Body Oriented Psychotherapy in Somerville, MA.

Samvedam worked as a trainer for the International Breath Institute, Colorado eventually designing her own breath training which she has been conducting over the last 8 years. She studied the systemic work of Bert Hellinger, Family Constellations, and is a graduate of the Hellinger Institute USA. She incorporates the constellation approach in her work with individuals, couples and groups. Apprenticing with teachers such as Osho, Dr. Salvador Roquet and more recently with John Perkins/Llyn Roberts has prepared Samvedam to accompany others on their inner journeys. Samvedam is the founder of the Inner Arts Institute and loves sacred journeys and vision quests!