TRAVELER TESTIMONY / SOUL SISTER / ERIN - NORTH CAROLINA

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

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

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!

TRAVELER TESTIMONY / INSPIRING SPIRIT / BONNIE - PENNSYLVANIA

Welcome to another edition of our series, "

TRAVELER TESTIMONY

" where we have the pleasure of introducing some of the amazing people that have joined us on EAT.PRAY.MOVE retreats. This month's spotlight is on an inspiring guest who has been on many retreats at all of our locations to date...but today her Q and A is focusing on her experience in Provence, France (where our next

upcoming retreat

will be held)!

Bonnie lives in Pennsylvania but is definitely a world citizen and always brings a great sprit to the groups. I had the pleasure of meeting Bonnie on a humanitarian trip to Cuba many years ago and from the start of EPM, she's been someone I can count on seeing every year. In her 60s, not only does she keep up with all the activities in the week, she also brings inspiration to others who've met her - with her resolve to see the world, meet other people, experience cultures, get out of her comfort-zone, and never stop exploring! Also, if you happen to be on a retreat that falls just after a breast-cancer awareness 'Race for the Cure' - you may just find that she's dyed her hair one of many shades of pink to show her support!

 Bonnie illuminating her henna hands in Morocco

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

As a single, retired woman with a strong desire to travel, I realized that there weren't many options available to travel with like-minded individuals. When a mutual friend mentioned that Erin had started EPM, I jumped right on it. The first trip that was available for me was to Marrakesh and there was no way to say no to that. I enjoyed it so much that each time a new location is offered, I sign up before it gets filled up. The last 'new' location was Provence, and since I had spent no time in that area I was roaring to go.

 Bonnie showing LOVE on a retreat in Ischia

How did your trip compare to your expectations?

The venue and the fellow travelers always change, so no trip is ever the same. Since Provence was my 4th Retreat, I pretty much knew the mechanics of the trip, and what the general schedule would be like. As it turned out, the details where better than I expected, although each retreat always is better than expected!

What did you learn on your trip?

What was confirmed for me on that trip was that the "universe" which supplied all my fellow travelers was one that matched my interests and suited my travel style.

 with some of the group in Tuscany

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

Erin is a wonderful guide! I recently came back from a retreat in India, and kept thinking that if Erin had led it, things would have been better and easier. Our guide had never stayed at any of the 4 places we used. Erin always scouts out the places before she selects them, and her standards are quite high. Erin treats all of us with patience and tolerance, a really necessary talent for a guide. She also gives us the freedom to choose whether we want to go along with the daily program or arrange our own side trips. And if we feel like sleeping in, missing a few yoga class. whatever, that's fine, too.

 enjoying an espresso in Italy

What was your favorite part of the retreat?

It's always difficult for me to pick out the best of anything. I'm very lucky in that there's almost nothing I don't enjoy. But if I'm forced to pick out the most exceptional event in Provence, it was going to the Thermal Spa. After an incredible massage and delicious outdoor lunch, I sat in my bathing suit near one of the many outdoor pools and enjoyed watching the ocean, conversations with my friends, and sketching.

 Bonnie in Provence with pink hair for breast-cancer awareness!

What impacted you and stayed with you once you traveled home?

I had always heard about the beauty of Provence, but had no idea what that really meant. After staying in a beautiful 17th century Provincial "demure" with beautiful gardens and surrounded by fields as well as forest, I learned that It is the natural beauty of the area which is so sensational. Charming villages were everywhere we drove. What is reinforced each time I travel with EPM is how grateful I am to have such a wonderful group to travel with. The experience always adds beauty and grace to my life.

Thank you, Bonnie for your words, continued support, and friendship! You're an inspiration and I hope many more guests on future retreats have the opportunity to meet you.

NEW GIVE-BACK RETREATS!

working with PROJECT SOAR just last month in Marrakesh

When I began EAT.PRAY.MOVE several years ago, it was my dream to one day be able to incorporate a humanitarian side to the company - either by including service opportunities on retreats, an annual full-service retreat, or just sharing in the profits of the retreats so we, along with our guests, could help in even a small way to groups in need. There have been many ideas on the table and plans are finally moving forward to make this more of a reality!

leading yoga class last year with Project SOAR

Since last year, I've been able to work with Peacock Pavilions, our hosts in Marrakesh, to help lead small yoga workshops for the girls of the nearby village on the days surrounding the retreats. Recently Peacock Pavilions officially announced their new non-profit company

PROJECT SOAR

which will continue to do work with their neighborhood village of Douar Ladaam, just on the outskirts of Marrakesh.

the girls showing their drawings of some of the animal names of yoga poses we learned

Starting with the next retreats in Marrakesh this coming September, both EAT.PRAY.MOVE and Peacock Pavilions have pledged at least 10% of profits to go directly to the efforts of PROJECT SOAR! We are also working through details to offer guests the opportunity to help with a small village beautification project during some of the free time of the retreat week! 

WHY NOT JOIN US IN SEPT FOR OUR FIRST "GIVE-BACK" RETREAT!

Spots are filling:

Sept 14-20

and

Sept 21-27

Be sure to check out the

PROJECT SOAR website

and video below where you can learn more...and even find a way to help!

PROJECT SOAR BELIEVES THAT THE WORLD WOULD BE A BETTER PLACE IF WE WERE ALL BETTER NEIGHBORS.

Project Soar uplifts underprivileged communities through art, design and movement. The Marrakesh village of Douar Ladaam in Marrakesh -- home to hundreds of families -- is our first pilot community. Cultural constraints sometimes allow girls fewer opportunities. So Project Soar empowers girls to GROW strong, smart and creative. We also bring beauty to communities through art, rehabilitation and cleanup projects, helping them THRIVE for years to come. We want us to all SOAR high together.

TRAVELER TESTIMONY / REPEAT IMPRESSIONS / LIZ - CALIFORNIA

One of the greatest joys of EAT.PRAY.MOVE is the opportunity to meet amazing people from all locations and walks of life. We thought we would share some of our friends with our amazing community in this kick-off of the new series "

TRAVELER TESTIMONY

". 

We recently caught up with Elizabeth Jimenez, a repeat guest of our retreats. An avid yogi from Long Beach, California, she and her family first joined us for a retreat in Marrakesh, Morocco and continued on to the Tuscany and Ischia retreats the following years. Liz, her husband Rene and mother-in-law Blanca are absolutely wonderful people and lovers of life - they've inspired us, made us smile, and most importantly have become friends along the way! To share them with you we did a little Q and A with Liz and loved what she had to say!

·      

What drew you EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats?

I started taking yoga classes for the first time right before my 49th birthday and when I saw an ad for EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats on Facebook, I just knew it would be a different yet very exciting vacation for us. The itinerary and pictures for the Morocco retreat at Peacock Pavillion looked like heaven! It was something straight out of a magazine layout, and I knew it would be a very special.  When my husband and I excitedly shared with my Mom that we were attending a yoga retreat in Morocco, she immediately invited herself!!

Liz, Rene, and Blanca in Marrakesh

·      

How did your trip compare to your expectations?

The EPM Morocco yoga retreat went BEYOND our expectations. From the pictures I knew we would be arriving to a beautiful location, but experiencing the environment, our accommodations, the food, daily yoga…it was the most luxurious vacation my husband and I have ever experienced. We really enjoyed Erin as our yogi, as well as our tour and cultural guide! She provides a personal touch and she's so easy to talk to. We especially enjoyed the daily excursions she chose for us.

Y.O.G.A on the beach in Morocco

·      

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

Vegetarian food is quite delicious!! We didn't miss eating meat while on the retreat.

·      

What was the best part of your trip?

Practicing yoga outdoors, under the canopy, early in the morning and late afternoon was so refreshing. Each day we felt energized and the fresh vegetarian food was amazing and delicious.

riding camels in Morocco

·      

What lasting impressions did you have?  

It definitely left an impression!!  The way we eat, move and pray has definitely changed for the better!! My husband changed his diet and cut out red meat entirely! He really enjoyed the vegetarian diet at the retreat and when we returned he was able to lower his cholesterol by sticking to a fish and vegetarian diet. I've continued to practice yoga daily in my home. It has kept me limber, provides me peace, and helps me most when I feel stressed out from work. Rene and I love to travel and especially enjoy vacations that include a healthy component.  For that reason we've attended two additional EPM yoga retreats! We love each retreat’s unique location. We look forward to experiencing the culture, food, people and practicing yoga with Erin.  That's what makes it so special. 

Thanks for sharing and traveling with us, Elizabeth, Rene and Blanca!  We look forward to more adventures with you in the future! 

ps: Follow Liz and her yogi adventures on her instagram page 

@lizlovelaugh

WELCOMING A NEW EAT.PRAY.MOVE MEMBER!

We are so happy to announce that we've added a new member to the EAT.PRAY.MOVE family and wanted to introduce her to you all, as you may be in contact with her someday. Sarah is currently living in Brooklyn, NY and is a health and life coach and an overall amazing woman who just teems with positivity. She'll be helping with social media, press, and customer relations. To get to know her more, we did a small Q&A...say hi to Sarah!

 at the top of the Castello Aragonese in Ischia, Italy

How do you know Erin and EAT.PRAY.MOVE?

After meeting Erin in NYC, I took one of the retreats to Ischia, Italy, and my life was changed!  First of all, I got to cross two life list items off—taking a yoga retreat and going to Italy.  But the takeaway was so much bigger than just a vacation.  I have never come away from time off with so much insight into who I am and what needed to change in my life.  Taking one of her retreats makes you realize who you are beyond the noise of regular life, and it lets you experience joy you didn’t know was possible. People noticed a tangible difference in me when I came back home. 

What do you do outside of EAT.PRAY.MOVE?

I am a certified holistic health and life coach, in addition to being a blogger. I work with modern women who are stuck or in a transition period and need support to move forward in life. From nutrition to relationships, I look at the big picture and help them remove obstacles and give them tools to become the best version of themselves. I have had my own struggles with health and stress in life, and I love being able to use my experiences to help others break through to the other side. 

Why is yoga important to you?

I found yoga in a dark time in my life, and it truly saved me.  While all the rest of the world was stressful, I found that the space of my mat was a comfort zone.  And it was one I could access at any time.  It’s a gift, not only to our bodies, but to our hearts and minds. It’s a reward really, after all the stress we put on our mind and body on a daily basis.  It balances me in so many ways. 

 living it up on the beautiful Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy

What do you love about travel?

I was fortunate enough to travel North America for 3 years with my husband’s work, so I was kind of forced into it a nomadic life for a bit. Within a month, I was hooked.  I realized how much is out there and how much of it I didn’t even know I needed to see. You also get to see how much people are alike, no matter where they live. You get to learn the feeling behind a place, what drives it.  Most of all, you get to learn and relearn how small you and your problems are.  Travel makes me feel alive, period.

Favorite place you have traveled?

It’s a toss up.  I loved Lake Louise, in Banff National Park, Alberta, I got to kayak in mint colored glacial waters, surrounded by snow capped mountains.  It was like stepping into a postcard.  But I was speechless at the beauty of Positano on the Amalfi Coast of Italy. Italy in general is everything you have ever imagined it to be and more. 

throwing a coin in the Trevi Fountain in Rome, ensuring a return visit!

What makes you happy?

Most things in life do, when I take the time to savor them. 

But I love my husband, yoga, a good cup of tea, anything that gets me close to water, beautifully made vegetables, pugs, paperback books, cupcakes and TRAVEL!

Where is next on your travel list?

Paris! My husband pointed out that all of my favorite movies take place there—Amelie, Sabrina, Midnight in Paris.

I just want to drink amazing wine, eat the best croissants, see amazing art and wander through Montmartre.

What is your life philosophy?

“When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” 

vegan-licious banana bread

Towhdayh Ih wahtwehd—

...sorry my mouth was full...

Today I wanted to share one of my favorite go-to recipes that I tend to make kind of regularly. I use the ripe bananas that I didn't use up for my acai smoothies throughout the week. When I see I have 2 or 3 bananas that are at the end of their yellow-ness I whip out this recipe, which is not only delicious, but also vegan!

VEGAN-LICIOUS BANANA BREAD

1/4 c earth balance veggie-"butter"

1/4 c natural apple sauce

1 c organic natural cane sugar*

3 Tbsp milk (almond or coconut)

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

3 ripe bananas

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp baking powder

pinch sea salt

1 tsp cinnamon

2 c all-purpose non-bleached flour

*If you have a preference, you can substitute a bit of the sugar with brown rice syrup. Here's a substitution I found for 1c sugar = 1 1/4 rice syrup plus 2 extra Tbsp flour and 1/2 tsp baking soda. I tend to just use an organic natural cane granulated sugar.

BONUS: you can also add some other healthy-boosters like a 1-2 Tbsps of flax or chia seeds- and then if the batter is a bit too dry add about 1 tsp of coconut oil.

Cream "butter", apple sauce, and sugar. Add milk, vanilla, and bananas. Add dry ingredients. Bake in greased loaf pan 350º for 1 hr or until done inside and browning on top.

EASY PEASY + extra good with a tiny bit of fruit preserves on top.

If you make it, please let me know how it went and if your taste buds thought it agreeable! xo

time for some updates...

SALUT! SALAM!

So we're back from the back-to-back yoga retreats in Marrakesh about a month ago, and also from a scouting trip in Provence, France. Looks like there is lots to catch you up on.

First of all - what an AMAZING time we had in Marrakesh. Peacock Pavilions was lovely as always, and the groups were so much fun! I should do an upcoming post just about the dishes we enjoyed each day - as there were many.

This time of year the air was so clear that you could see the gorgeous snow-capped Atlas Mountains in the distance. Such a strange and beautiful juxtaposition from the desert.

We enjoyed some relaxation (with Moroccan mint tea of course!) around the pool...

...while listening to the many songbirds sing away from the branches of the olive trees.

That is, of course, when we weren't out watching fire dancers...

Plus, something new since last time in September 2011 - the yoga tent now has a beautifully painted floor that we all got to admire during those downward-facing dog poses.

 Both groups were full of energy, laughter, wonderful spirits, and (newly made) friends!

Now don't miss out on the ONE SPOT LEFT for Sept 23-29 this year - and 2 weeks are on the site now for MARCH 2013!

http://eatpraymove.com

ps. I'll talk to you soon about the NEWLY ANNOUNCED retreat in PROVENCE, FRANCE after my time touring the area and getting details set up... stay tuned!

and the winner Is...

CONGRATULATIONS to Heather from

I Heart doTerra

 for being our giveaway winner of the signed copy from Maryam's upcoming book, Marrakesh by Design!

I for one can't wait to see this finally in print! Thanks to everyone who participated....

...wishing you a wonderful weekend!

Happy GIVEAWAY Time!

Have you been to Morocco? Maybe joined (or will be joining) us on a yoga retreat in Marrakesh? Have you always wanted to experience the exotic pleasures of this faraway land but just haven't made it there yet?

Well now you can have a little piece of Marrakesh at home! Some of the beautiful colors, sights, textures, and patterns...

The beautiful Maryam of MyMarrakesh, and owner of the boutique hotel Peacock Pavilions, the location of our EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreats in Marrakesh, has just completed a lovely book titled Marrakesh by Design, published by Artisan Books and set to be released in May!

AND YOU CAN WIN A FIRST-EDITION SIGNED COPY!

Or better yet, why not join us for a trip of a lifetime this year! Spots still available for Feb 26-Mar 3 and Sept 23-29.

FIND OUT MORE AND SIGN UP HERE

!

Read what one of our past guests had to say:

"I have always had a love of travel and a spirit of adventure, but as an almost 69-year old single woman, I believed my opportunities were limited and tame. Then, EAT. PRAY. MOVE came into my life and boy am I hooked! I signed up for the September ('11) trip to Marrakech and it was one of the finest travel experiences of my life. The accommodations were beautiful. The service. wonderful, The feeling of family and good friends surrounded us. Instead of being in a hotel, with the usual hotel culture, I was able to experience a true Moroccan lifestyle, including delicious food served on a delightful porch near the beautiful pool during the day and in a picturesque tent in the evening. The activities were fabulous: walking around in the walled old city with shopping galore, going on a day trip to a beach town including riding a camel. (I fantasized being Lawrence of Arabia.) and dining in exceptional Marrakech restaurants. We received henna treatments and spent an afternoon at a spa. Of course, there was yoga and meditation every day, too. It was a wonderful, exciting and affordable trip. I can't wait to see next year's schedule!"

- Bonnie

HOW TO ENTER GIVEAWAY

:

•

COMMENT on this post

with what exotic Mediterranean location you'd love to EAT, PRAY, and MOVE in! *Be sure to include your name, email (if not directly linked in comment), and if you completed the Facebook and/or Twitter additional entries*

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL ENTRIES:

• "LIKE" us on

FACEBOOK

• TWEET (copy and paste this exact message) "Enter to win signed book by @MyMarrakesh & Join us for #YOGA Retreat w/ @eatpraymoveyoga http://eatpraymoveyoga.com"

Contest runs until Feb 14, 2012 11:59est. Winner will be announced later that week and prize delivered when book is released in May 2012. *ONLY US &CANADA mailing addresses accepted*

To NYC with Love

So this past Sunday was the first mini "urban retreat" I hosted here in NYC with the company

SideTour

. Like I mentioned in the last post, SideTour brings together local enthusiasts and guests for interesting "experiential" tours. From beer-making classes and private dinner parties to graffiti art walks and intimate concerts - these tours connect NYC locals and visitors with a unique experience in the city - past the traditional tourist activities. Plus, the groups are small leading to a more intimate experience.

Carl Schurtz Park

The one I ran this past weekend was a combination of - what else - eating, praying, and moving! A handful of guests joined in from various parts of the city, and I even had one person visit all the way from Boston just for the event! She'd come on the Tuscany retreat last year and it was so nice to see her again.

Peter Pan - our meeting place

We started at the beautiful Carl Schurtz Park in the Upper East Side of the city. Here we enjoyed introductions and then I spoke about the practice of meditation before we headed to the water promenade to experience first-hand a time of walking meditation.

walking meditation along the river

Next it was off to a nearby yoga studio for a private small-group lesson to get our heart-rates up. Finally, we ended the afternoon at a lovely vegan restaurant where we each enjoyed some tea and a couple healthy courses before saying goodbye.

It felt like a small family for the day - like a mini version of the friendships forges on the week-long retreats. Everyone seemed to have a great time and I'm looking forward to more meetings like this locally. In the meantime...off to plan some new Mediterranean retreats...

au revoir!

Mini Urban Retreat

Calling all fellow NYC'ers, or even those thinking of visiting the Big Apple...I'm excited to announce that  there are now mini EAT.PRAY.MOVE urban retreats right here in the city.

The NY-based company

SideTour

 recently contacted me about teaming up with them with a health&wellness tour. I love their concept of offering experiential tours around the city with local experts. It's such a great way for residents to learn more about specific subjects or locales around the town, as well as a wonderful opportunity for visitors to dig deeper than the typical tourists sites.

I'm hoping that these ongoing mini urban tours will be a great way to introduce city-dwellers to a more peaceful way of living, as well as giving guests a way to indulge in some eating, praying, and moving during their visit.

Join me on the first tour where we'll start with a walking meditation through one of the city's hidden gems of a park, then on to a yoga class, followed by a meal at one of the top vegan restaurants including a small presentation on the benefits of a healthy diet.

Read more about the details & sign up

HERE

!

LAST MINUTE DISCOUNT

So it's the new year! Have you set some new intentions to get healthier? take more risks? step out of your comfort zone? travel more?

Then HERE'S YOUR CHANCE! 

 Why not join us next month for a Yoga Retreat in beautiful Marrakesh, Morocco? Feb 26-Mar 3.

LAST MINUTE DISCOUNT UNTIL JAN 15. SAVE $200!

Click

HERE

for all the details and to sign up!

NEW 2012 Retreat Dates

Have you heard? We've announced several new 2012 retreat dates on the site! Now you have more opportunities to join us on an EAT.PRAY.MOVE Yoga Retreat holiday this next year.

2011 was an amazing year in Italy and Morocco with some of the best groups ever. I'm so excited to see who we get to meet next year. There have already been some sign-ups and even some repeat guests coming again.

Here is the line-up! Don't miss out.

UPCOMING 2012 RETREATS:

MARRAKESH, MOROCCO :: March 4-10 & September 23-29, 2012 • Click HERE for more info!
TUSCANY, ITALY :: May 20-26, 2012 • Click HERE for more info!
VENICE, ITALY :: May 27-June 2, 2012 • Click HERE for more info!
ISCHIA, ITALY :: September 16-22, 2012 • Click HERE for more info!

Food in Marrakesh \ part 3

Part 3 of my posts on the past yoga retreat in Marrakesh. This one will probably be my last one about Marrakesh for a while, as I have several other things to update you on...but this one is last, and not least, about the amazing FOOD we had.

The week was an ongoing parade of tastes - all completely vegetarian and completely delicious. Most of the meals were served at Peacock Pavilions, from breakfast and lunches on the outdoor poolside terrace to extravagant dinners in the Moroccan dining tent.

Flavors and spices from sweet to savory were in every bite...

(and sip...as we had a few lovely cocktails throughout the week too! Here were some cucumber mint Pimms sipped poolside during the henna party)

All fresh, local ingredients were served with a mix of traditional and more international flair of recipes.

All meals were multi-courses and served in beautiful displays before each of us.

Dessert was a daily indulgence as well. (shhh.... ;)) and I don't think there were any complaints about that.

What a GREAT group it was - so many laughs were shared each day, smiles/hugs/encouragement given, and life-long friends made. Can't wait to see everyone again sometime.

Here's a video recap of our amazing week:

There's a few spots left for the next Marrakesh adventure in March 2012. 

JOIN US

!

Yoga in Marrakesh \ part 2

I hope to have whet your appetite for more about the Marrakesh yoga retreat from the

last post

. Oh but how much there is to say about our lovely time there.

So what did we do during the week (well besides a couple yoga classes and some meditation each day)?

PLENTY!

 The first day was a magical guide through the exotic Marrakesh Medina. Through palaces, rihads, and souks.

We explored the streets, bargained at the stalls, found just the right rugs and slippers, and of course enjoyed a few mint tea breaks throughout the day.

The main square in the old part of the city is indescribable in words or photos...you just have to be there to experience it first-hand!

One day we enjoyed a pool-side cocktail party at

Peacock Pavilions

while getting painted up with beautiful henna designs! (Even the guys joined in on the party!)

Then we all took a trip to the seaside town of Essoauria with its lovely laid-back vibe. After a yoga session on the beach we explored the markets and the quaint streets, (ate a gelato...shhh don't tell!), and then geared up for one of the highlights...

...Camel rides on the beach! Passing old fortress ruins, watching the sunset as we lazily rode through the sand, "fantasizing being like Lawrence of Arabia" as one guest put it!

But wait...there's more! Stay tuned for thoughts on the food, flavors, and spices of Morocco!

and we're baaaacckk!!!

Wow. Has it really been six weeks already? Finally just a few days ago I arrived back to NYC and am finally getting over the jet lag!

The last time we spoke I was just about to board a transatlantic flight - and boy has the time flown! Well now I'm back after some unforgettable weeks in both Marrakesh and Ischia. For now I thought I'd just give you a nice recap of the Marrakesh retreat and the amazingly fun time we had at Peacock Pavilions in September. ...Of course, stay tuned for even more updates about the Ischia retreat - and news on the upcoming 2012 calendar announcements.

OUR EXPERIENCE AT PEACOCK PAVILIONS

I thought I'd break up the posts on the Marrakesh retreat into several categories. The first being about the amazing location and hosts of Peacock Pavilions. Words won't do it justice so I'm only going to give some snippets of how beautiful it really was.

As soon as we arrived we were given a tour of the grounds and just oooh'd and aaaahh'd at all the details that had gone into every single space. The rooms are magnificent and each piece of paint, artwork, or fabric seems to have some story behind it.

Many an afternoon was spend lounging by the beautiful pool area while mint teas were sipped continuously. We even had a henna & cocktail party as well as a wine-tasting event around the pool throughout the week...but more to come on that in another post!

Morning and evening yoga classes were held in the lovely yoga tent in the olive grove. Spacious and always nice views, the tent has most recently been painted even more awaiting our

next retreat

in March! Meditation class, including a walking meditation around the grounds, was always a nice wake-up routine with just the warm breezes and occasional bird caw filtering in through the tent.

Meals here are another story that will require its own post - as there's just too much to say about it. I think that between all of the guests, the plates were the spotlight of the most photos all week! Each meal, including breakfast, was served in courses, each one more beautiful than the next. And don't get me started on the mouth-watering tastes. Plus, we enjoyed dinner in the dining tent which made us all feel like kings and queens each evening!

Maryam with me and some of our lovely guests

Then there are the hosts Chris and Maryam (plus their adorable kids, interns, and staff) who all welcomed us with open arms. Their hospitality makes you feel at home - ok, well maybe a bit more pampered than at home - but a beautiful home nonetheless!

...More to come on the rest of the Marrakesh experience!

leaving on a jet plane

So today I fly out for the upcoming

EAT.PRAY.MOVE

Yoga Retreats in

Marrakesh

and

Ischia

! Really excited for these next adventures and to meet all the wonderful guests that are traveling over to join us.

I can't believe that the time for Morocco is already here. This coming week we'll be doing yoga in an olive grove, sipping iced mint tea by the pool, shopping at the souks in Marrakesh, and riding camels on the beach...

Doesn't this video just get you in the mood for the exotic aura of Marrakesh?

If you missed signing up for this one...then

join us in March

when we'll be meeting again at

Peacock Pavilions

for another week of yoga, Moroccan cuisine, henna parties, and spa days.

•••••••••••

Plus, you still have time to sign up for the ISCHIA, ITALY retreat Oct 2-8! Here we'll be exploring the amazing island off the Amalfi Coast, hiking, visiting castles in the sea, eating amazing food, and practicing yoga along the cliffs of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

JOIN US

(psst...there's a $100 off last-min discount as well...just mention the post during sign up!)

I'll be staying in Italy between the two retreats this time to lead a

SOJOURNISTA Travel Stylist

trip. We're visiting the "waters of Italy"...Belaggio, Lake Como (lake) + Venice (canals) + Florence (river) + Cinque Terre (sea). I'll be sure to

post lots of pics

!