Oh snap! We have sold out! But no worries!
We have two more cabins available on our September Croatia Sailing Retreat -
We have two more cabins available on our September Croatia Sailing Retreat -
Are you so busy that you have forgotten what really matters?
Needing some time away to relax and recharge your soul?
Yearning to reconnect to yourself and find your source of inspiration?
YES?
Then THIS is a journey designed for YOU!!!
After a week in Santorini, you'll come away relaxed, refreshed, inspired, and openhearted. Filled with the passion the island has ignited in your soul and ready to live the life of your dreams!
Just imagine waking up on a quiet, predawn morning, stepping onto your balcony for an alone moment before the day begins. The silent stillness around you is filled with possibility. Breathing deeply of the fresh Santorini air, you see the first glimmers of morning light as the sun rises behind the blue-domed church overlooking our yoga space.
This, you realize with a smile, is your home this week. Not only a space to relax and let go but to rediscover yourself and your deepest yearnings.
Taking another full breath, you draw in the peace all around you while allowing the present moment to pull you into even deeper imaginings about the week ahead.
You imagine yourself marveling at brilliant blue skies, astonishing sunsets and endless turquoise seas. You grin as you watch yourself enjoying a veritable treasure chest of authentic Greek culture and cuisine while soaking up the inherent lightheartedness of this island.
You imagine yourself marveling at brilliant blue skies, astonishing sunsets and endless turquoise seas. You grin as you watch yourself enjoying a veritable treasure chest of authentic Greek culture and cuisine while soaking up the inherent lightheartedness of this island.
You even see yourself participating in daily yoga, meditation and inner and outer explorations. And finally, you feel yourself sinking into a space of such deep authenticity that you begin to embody the profound healing energy of this transformative oasis itself.
Suddenly you pinch yourself and realize...
You are on one of the most picturesque and magical places on earth!
A place of relaxation and deep transformation.
Transformation, you ask?
YES!
“Most of our transformations come when we didn’t get what we thought we wanted, only to get something better than we could have imagined.”
(As inspiring author Agape Stassinopoulos writes so beautifully in “Unbinding the Heart”, our theme for this week)
That “something better” is waiting for you in Santorini!
A place of relaxation and deep transformation.
Transformation, you ask?
YES!
“Most of our transformations come when we didn’t get what we thought we wanted, only to get something better than we could have imagined.”
(As inspiring author Agape Stassinopoulos writes so beautifully in “Unbinding the Heart”, our theme for this week)
That “something better” is waiting for you in Santorini!
Over the 7 magical nights and eight days you experience a sense of joie de vivre and lightness of heart that you never have before. Play and connection is the focus so you can let go and let us take care of all the details.
You’re able to let go and totally immerse yourself in the beauty, food and culture of the island and take this dedicated self-discovery time - through yoga, journaling, having new experiences, and letting go.
Yoga Teachers and Life Coaches Sherry Smith & Roni Sloman guide you through this journey where every detail is taken care of and are here to support you every step of the way - all you have to do is show up!
You’re able to let go and totally immerse yourself in the beauty, food and culture of the island and take this dedicated self-discovery time - through yoga, journaling, having new experiences, and letting go.
Yoga Teachers and Life Coaches Sherry Smith & Roni Sloman guide you through this journey where every detail is taken care of and are here to support you every step of the way - all you have to do is show up!
Ok, but let me tell you more!
This retreat is for you IF you are a...
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Leader and Doer - You're ambitious, have a very full life, have many demands and like to get things done, always doing too much - making it tough to slow down and stay in the moment.
Planner and Type A - Always have to-do lists, like to be in control and have difficulty letting go. Giver - Who always give to those we love - work, careers, family, responsibilities. Questioner - You know who you are! You're at a cross-roads in your life, and you're READY for some YOU time, and are READY for a change in your life. |
Bucket Lister - Ready to put yourself first and check this item off your bucket list!
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You deserve to be surrounded by the water, beauty, and like-minded friends on this amazing island and reconnect fully with the most important person you know…YOU!!
The Location
You're experiencing one of the most beautiful and profound islands in the world. Santorini and the pedestrian only town of Oia sits on the top of this volcanic crater 1000 feet above the ocean. You can literally see the entire ridge of the crater between the island of Santorini and the two smaller islands nearby. You feel as if you can touch the sky and the sea at the same time. As you look over the magnificent Caldera you can see all of the white washed buildings with the magnificent famous blue domes. As you look over to the west side of the islands the famous windmills are the backdrop for some of the most magnificent sunsets in the world.
The island is made up of several small towns and villages where the people are some of the friendliest you have ever met, ready to open their arms and their hearts to you - loving to share stories their lives, the philosophy of love and life,and why they choose to live life so openly - so open hearted in every moment!
You instantly feel as if you have always belonged here and that you have so much to learn from them!
The Venue
You are staying in the middle of the bustling town of Oia, the cliffside town with magnificent sunsets, and you are tucked away into your own private oasis. Your boutique hotel feels as if it is a village within itself...with natural stones from the island used as a building material, so you find the natural colors of SANTORINI with cobblestone paths leading to each room or apartment - with its own unique character - all with balconies or terraces with views of the sea or hotel village.
You are staying in the superior room that has a bird's eye view of the sea with all marble floors with space to lounge as well as your own are to sleep. You have also checked out your friend's standard room which also has its own charm...more apartment style living with two bedrooms and a balcony opening up to the hotel paths and pool view. You invite some of your new “omies” to enjoy a glass of wine for sunset from your balcony. All the rooms have marvelous, spacious vaulted ceilings that promise a natural coolness on hot days.
There is a huge beautiful swimming pool to relax and recharge while being served a glass of wine or a small snack poolside.
The owners and the staff take care of our every need and you feel as if you are surrounded by one big giant hug all week!
The Food!
The Food is a yogi's dream! Fresh, Simple, Rich and Delicious - bursting with flavor in it’s simplicity! Santorini’s gastronomic fare is sought out from all over the world.
Imagine sitting in a cliffside restaurant overlooking the majestic views as you order a traditional Greek salad full of the freshest tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta you have ever tasted topped with the most flavorful olive oil you have ever tasted. You can’t believe this simple dish of tomatoes, cucumbers and olive oil can be so amazing!
Imagine sitting in a cliffside restaurant overlooking the majestic views as you order a traditional Greek salad full of the freshest tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta you have ever tasted topped with the most flavorful olive oil you have ever tasted. You can’t believe this simple dish of tomatoes, cucumbers and olive oil can be so amazing!
For a second course you choose fresh fish that were caught right from these waters - that you choose for yourself - simply grilled with olive oil and lemon.
For dessert you try some watermelon drizzled with balsamic vinegar and feta...a strangely divine combination AND the traditional baklava you have heard so much about - why not, you’re on vacation!
Yoga * Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!
The yoga space is just stunning with different views in every direction!
You’re able to balance your daily activities and take time to process and reflect through daily meditation and yoga classes that weave in journaling, reflection and sharing time to give you space to be able to have your own epiphanies around yourself and what’s next in your life.
If you are a beginner - no worries! Classes are fulfilling for beginners and teachers alike - from gentle to yin to power! Roni and Sherry have combined experience of 23 years and make classes accessible for all levels - meeting you where you're at, honoring your body - yet giving giving you the challenge that you need to go beyond your comfort zone.
If you are a beginner - no worries! Classes are fulfilling for beginners and teachers alike - from gentle to yin to power! Roni and Sherry have combined experience of 23 years and make classes accessible for all levels - meeting you where you're at, honoring your body - yet giving giving you the challenge that you need to go beyond your comfort zone.
When you leave the retreat - you will carry in your heart all of the experiences and self-awareness that you have found on this retreat.
You will also have new tools to take into your daily life - to empower you to live life more openly after the retreat.
The Itinerary
Each day is meticulously planned for you...to really experience it fully with all of your senses. Weaving in the perfect blend of yoga, activities and free time for self exploration and bonding with your new friends. There are also lots of surprises along the way. You have a general idea of what to expect but receive oh so much more!
You arrive on the island to be taken to your hotel and greeted by Sherry, Roni, and Sherry's husband Stu and your new friends who have already arrived. You check in and the staff takes your bags to the room. Before unpacking you decide to take a moment to unwind from the travel and begin your experience by jumping into the pool followed by a refreshing glass of Santorini wine. You have a leisurely afternoon before you meet up with the group for the opening circle and our first group dinner - which has the most amazing sunset!
You arrive on the island to be taken to your hotel and greeted by Sherry, Roni, and Sherry's husband Stu and your new friends who have already arrived. You check in and the staff takes your bags to the room. Before unpacking you decide to take a moment to unwind from the travel and begin your experience by jumping into the pool followed by a refreshing glass of Santorini wine. You have a leisurely afternoon before you meet up with the group for the opening circle and our first group dinner - which has the most amazing sunset!
After your first yoga class of the retreat, your first full day consists of exploring the town of Oia which is just outside our hotel, to walk the cobblestone streets, shop, or explore the town of Ammoudi at the bottom of 400 steps which houses some amazing restaurants with the freshest seafood around! If you are daring, you can put on your swimsuit and go swimming from the swimming hole here….your first experience of the healing Santorini waters.
Each day that is planned you are continually impressed with each experience - each one just as magical as the other ranging from wine tasting to the most amazing hike on the planet - tracing the perimeter of the Caldera with gorgeous vistas in every direction, to kayaking, beach days, cultural events, amazing food, a boat trip (the most amazing sail of your life!), swimming in the famous volcano and so much more!
There is a great balance of group meals (4) as well as meals on your own so that you can fill your adventurous spirit and experience your version of Greek cuisine.
I don't want to spoil any more surprises so here's what a typical day looks like:
(An in detail itinerary will be provided about 6 weeks prior at our meet and greet. We'll go over every juicy detail!)
I don't want to spoil any more surprises so here's what a typical day looks like:
- Daily Yoga 2 times per day or a longer workshop type class
- Daily Breakfast (included)
- Included group activity (lunch normally on own)
- Dinner (4 dinners included)
(An in detail itinerary will be provided about 6 weeks prior at our meet and greet. We'll go over every juicy detail!)
Three amazing benefits you'll leave with:
1. Living with a more open heart - Imagine leaving with greater sense of who you are and that you're ready and inspired to go back into the world with new found passion for your life with an open heart.
2. Tools to keep you focused after the trip - The entire week is structured around heart-opening with journaling, reflection and sharing time to give you the space to be able to reflect on your intentions. We give you tools to create goals or ways of being once you leave the retreat in your daily life. You’ll return home knowing what it feels like to really be connected, open hearted, and free!
3. Lasting friendships - You never knew that you could grow so close to seemed strangers that are now your friends forever in only a week! You have new soul-”mates” call upon whenever you need them! They have been through this experience with you and will always “get” you with little explanation needed.
2. Tools to keep you focused after the trip - The entire week is structured around heart-opening with journaling, reflection and sharing time to give you the space to be able to reflect on your intentions. We give you tools to create goals or ways of being once you leave the retreat in your daily life. You’ll return home knowing what it feels like to really be connected, open hearted, and free!
3. Lasting friendships - You never knew that you could grow so close to seemed strangers that are now your friends forever in only a week! You have new soul-”mates” call upon whenever you need them! They have been through this experience with you and will always “get” you with little explanation needed.
What's included
Sailing & swimming in the volcano
- Scheduled transfer at appointed times from/to Oia airport or ferry port on start and end dates of retreat
- Seven nights accommodations double occupancy including tax (some standard apartments have 2 bedrooms so each bedroom will be double occupancy)
- 2× daily yoga on a panoramic deck overlooking Santorini in all directions including workshop
- Daily (7) breakfasts
- Four dinners, one lunch
- All group excursions (4 minimum including life changing hike)
- 24/7 guides/retreat leaders
What's not included
- Airfare and travel costs to get to Santorini
- Gratuities (for excursions if you feel they deserve it)
- Meals that are not included in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages not included in meals
- Your shopping and additional purchases or excursions
- Personal, medical, or trip cancellation insurance (highly recommended)
Your retreat leaders
Sherry, Retreat Journeys Founder
I am no stranger to major life challenges. At 20 years old my life went into a tail spin - dealing with my only sister’s death in 1993, while I was in college - she was only 17 and came down with an unexpected illness. After 6 months of continuous hospitalization, she ended up passing away. In the next few years, I dealt with a divorce, found my new husband and was re-married in 2000. Six months into our new marriage, my husband was diagnosed with a chronic illness and had a cancer scare. All of this rocked my world all before I was 27 years old - I also became an instant step-mom to 3 "tweens" - a blessing, but a major challenge within itself!
Going back to high school, I was asked what I wanted to do for a living. I remember thinking “I want to make people’s dreams come true!” I also traveled to Germany when I was 12 and fell in love with other cultures - I thought of this trip and how life changing it was for me and decided that wanted to do that for others - so I spent 10 years in the travel industry planning trips for a living and traveling the world during this tumultuous time in my life.
Over time, that dream travel industry job was becoming more and more corporate as I was climbing the corporate ladder. It was draining my energy and moving me further away from who I was. After Sept. 11th, it became "business" and less about the employee, the customer and my happiness.
I am no stranger to major life challenges. At 20 years old my life went into a tail spin - dealing with my only sister’s death in 1993, while I was in college - she was only 17 and came down with an unexpected illness. After 6 months of continuous hospitalization, she ended up passing away. In the next few years, I dealt with a divorce, found my new husband and was re-married in 2000. Six months into our new marriage, my husband was diagnosed with a chronic illness and had a cancer scare. All of this rocked my world all before I was 27 years old - I also became an instant step-mom to 3 "tweens" - a blessing, but a major challenge within itself!
Going back to high school, I was asked what I wanted to do for a living. I remember thinking “I want to make people’s dreams come true!” I also traveled to Germany when I was 12 and fell in love with other cultures - I thought of this trip and how life changing it was for me and decided that wanted to do that for others - so I spent 10 years in the travel industry planning trips for a living and traveling the world during this tumultuous time in my life.
Over time, that dream travel industry job was becoming more and more corporate as I was climbing the corporate ladder. It was draining my energy and moving me further away from who I was. After Sept. 11th, it became "business" and less about the employee, the customer and my happiness.
My happy, healthy hubby, Stu and I :)
During this time, I also sought out yoga for healing - mentally and emotionally - it had blessed my life in so many ways, I decided to become a yoga teacher in 2001 and guide others through their healing.
Yoga helped me process and rise above my heartbreak and challenges and find new purpose and inspiration for my life, gave me courage to make necessary changes, and find happiness again. I left my corporate job and began working at the renowned Moffitt Cancer Center - a very special place where my husband was treated. I am still there and continue to coach people on how to provide the best possible patient experience in every interaction possible.
Yoga helped me process and rise above my heartbreak and challenges and find new purpose and inspiration for my life, gave me courage to make necessary changes, and find happiness again. I left my corporate job and began working at the renowned Moffitt Cancer Center - a very special place where my husband was treated. I am still there and continue to coach people on how to provide the best possible patient experience in every interaction possible.
I try not to have a day go by without affecting the world in a positive way. Our life is short - it’s so important we do what we’re meant to do - and to impact the people we’re meant to impact - today.
Retreat Journeys has come to fruition 8 years ago through the love of my own yoga practice, my wanderlust travel roots, and my passion towards helping you find your purpose and life inspiration.
It is such an honor to create these life changing experiences for you and a privilege to guide you on this inner and outer adventure of a lifetime. The fulfillment that my husband, myself, and the participants receive out of the retreats is much more than I can put on paper. They are truly are magical!
It is such an honor to create these life changing experiences for you and a privilege to guide you on this inner and outer adventure of a lifetime. The fulfillment that my husband, myself, and the participants receive out of the retreats is much more than I can put on paper. They are truly are magical!
After each retreat , I immediately start planning the next one - and now in 2017 is the first year I am hosting two in one year! It is truly my honor, passion, and pleasure to create these experiences and the space for you to heal, breathe, and be.
See you in Santorini!
See you in Santorini!
Roni Sloman - Co-Leader
When I was 15 years old sitting by a frozen creek in North Carolina I made a decision that would change my life. I decided to try out a relationship with God, but I was clear with him that if he didn't show up I was outta there. Well, needless to say...he showed up. In college I spent two months backpacking through Europe and I returned home home a different woman. I adored everything about the act of travel. When I graduated college I got my dream job working in full time ministry for an international outreach program.
When I was 15 years old sitting by a frozen creek in North Carolina I made a decision that would change my life. I decided to try out a relationship with God, but I was clear with him that if he didn't show up I was outta there. Well, needless to say...he showed up. In college I spent two months backpacking through Europe and I returned home home a different woman. I adored everything about the act of travel. When I graduated college I got my dream job working in full time ministry for an international outreach program.
After a couple years of full time ministry under my belt and my first year of my Masters in Divinity I decided to take a different route. I had always been fascinated by the outdoors and drawn toward adventure sports. So, I moved to North Carolina to be the Director of Outdoor Events for a gear company called REI. I spent two years pushing myself physically, constantly hiking, ice climbing, rock climbing, and mountaineering. After 45 continuous days in the wilderness and then completing my Wilderness Emergency Medical Technicians license, I decided to do something radical. Remembering my previous mission work in Nicaragua and Costa Rica, I decided to spend a couple months living in a village in Africa working with a local clinic. When I returned, I found myself in the midst of a depression. I thought the travel would straighten me out, but discovered the real place I needed to travel was within. I began to learn about meditation, not knowing what I was doing I sat and learned to breathe. That was enough, I found a crack of light in a dark room, and felt called to tell others about this simple and profound activity. I signed up for yoga teacher training having taken one yoga class in my life, and luckily they let me in. Eight months later I was in love. I loved the movement, the awareness, the passion. I decided to open a studio, and the rest is history. My experience in ministry, the outdoors, yoga, meditation, travel, and speaking all combine in my classes. It was my dream to lead retreats and have the honor of guiding people during that vulnerable, excited, and mind opening experience. I believe a yoga class is one of the most healing things in the world and I believe travel is our best chance at peace.
“Leading a yoga retreat is an honor that I never take for granted - as you have taken time off your career, spend this much on an adventure, and choose the practice of yoga - as you allow me to walk you step by step through another world and to yourself.”
If you want to learn details about me, click here.
-Namaste, Sherry, Stu & Roni
“Leading a yoga retreat is an honor that I never take for granted - as you have taken time off your career, spend this much on an adventure, and choose the practice of yoga - as you allow me to walk you step by step through another world and to yourself.”
If you want to learn details about me, click here.
-Namaste, Sherry, Stu & Roni
Bonuses!
New friendships
Before you even arrive at your UNBINDING THE HEART Santorini retreat, you’ll be invited to join a private Facebook group as soon as you register so you can get to know your shipmates, ask questions and share in the pre-trip excitement. What's even better is that when you get home after the retreat you can keep in touch with everyone, share pictures, swap stories, and keep everyone in the loop with your triumphs and challenges.
A virtual group meet and greet meeting about 6 weeks prior to the trip to learn all the juicy details about the trip - what to pack, what to expect, travel logistics, etc. (If you live in Tampa, you can join us in person!)
You’ll also have a FREE 30 minute DISCOVER session with Sherry one month after the retreat, so together we can make sure you’re still on track with everything you learned.
A virtual group meet and greet meeting about 6 weeks prior to the trip to learn all the juicy details about the trip - what to pack, what to expect, travel logistics, etc. (If you live in Tampa, you can join us in person!)
You’ll also have a FREE 30 minute DISCOVER session with Sherry one month after the retreat, so together we can make sure you’re still on track with everything you learned.
Pricing
8 days / 7 nights (May 27 to Jun 3)
Standard apartment TWO SPOTS LEFT = *$2650 per person double occupancy
(2350 Euros)
Superior room SOLD OUT= *$2950 per person double occupancy
2650 Euros)
*The pricing is valid to Euro - USD up to 1.15 exchange rate. If the exchange rate is higher than 1.15, the final balance will be adjusted to reflect the higher exchange rate
Standard apartment TWO SPOTS LEFT = *$2650 per person double occupancy
(2350 Euros)
Superior room SOLD OUT= *$2950 per person double occupancy
2650 Euros)
*The pricing is valid to Euro - USD up to 1.15 exchange rate. If the exchange rate is higher than 1.15, the final balance will be adjusted to reflect the higher exchange rate
Deposit and Payments
Deposit to hold space = $700
Final balance due Mar 15, 2017
Air Travel Arrangements
Santorini can be reached from most international airports via Athens, which is served by the Athens International Airport. Tickets are sometimes cheaper if you book separate Round Trip tickets to/from Athens and then buy a round trip ticket from Athens to/from Santorini.
If coming from the U.S. Travel dates would be May 26th to June 3rd, 2017. You will need to leave the U.S on the 26th to arrive on the 27th. Sherry is happy to help you navigate your airline travel options if needed.
If coming from the U.S. Travel dates would be May 26th to June 3rd, 2017. You will need to leave the U.S on the 26th to arrive on the 27th. Sherry is happy to help you navigate your airline travel options if needed.
Additional questions answered
Have never done yoga before? No problem! The retreat is for all levels! Our retreats are not just yoga - normally yoga is taught once or twice per day depending on our itinerary and the excursions and meals are just as much a part of the theme of the week as the yoga. It is an immersion for all of the senses!
Never traveled abroad? We’ve got you covered! We have traveled abroad and to Santorini before many times and can give you the advice you need to arrive safely.
Never done this for yourself? Just do it! There’s no time like now! It will be a life-defining week.
Never traveled abroad? We’ve got you covered! We have traveled abroad and to Santorini before many times and can give you the advice you need to arrive safely.
Never done this for yourself? Just do it! There’s no time like now! It will be a life-defining week.
Can I bring my husband? Our retreats are for men and women alike :) Sherry and Stu are a husband and wife team and make everyone feel at home. Our last Santorini retreat had 5 couples :)
Traveling by yourself? Perfect! We'll partner you with a roommate to share your room with. Once you sign up we also connect you with our private Facebook page so that you get to get to know the group before the trip - so you can find another friend to travel with if you’d rather travel with someone.
Traveling by yourself? Perfect! We'll partner you with a roommate to share your room with. Once you sign up we also connect you with our private Facebook page so that you get to get to know the group before the trip - so you can find another friend to travel with if you’d rather travel with someone.
What is the weather like in Santorini in May? Santorini in May is an average high of 75 to 84 degrees and low of 66 degrees Fahrenheit
What kind of clothes will I need for the trip? The weather is mild, so pack some shorts, light pants, sneakers, sandals, a few light sweaters for layers during evening or early morning hours, and a windbreaker for when you're sailing.
What currency does Greece use? Greece currency Euro. The currency exchange rate does change frequently. To check the current currency exchange rate, you can go to: http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Do people speak and understand English? YES! Many Greeks speak English very well!
What kind of clothes will I need for the trip? The weather is mild, so pack some shorts, light pants, sneakers, sandals, a few light sweaters for layers during evening or early morning hours, and a windbreaker for when you're sailing.
What currency does Greece use? Greece currency Euro. The currency exchange rate does change frequently. To check the current currency exchange rate, you can go to: http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Do people speak and understand English? YES! Many Greeks speak English very well!
What should I budget for meals? You can eat affordably and healthy if you know what to order. Try a few appetizers and salad for lunch or a light dinner. The cost of meals can be anywhere from 15 euro to 60 depending on the restaurant and how you order. We'll be happy to help you with meal decisions.
I would like to immerse myself in yoga and self-exploration while I'm there. Is there time for that? YES! There will be plenty of time to reflect, do your own practice, journal, photography, sketching, whatever your creative outlet is.
I would like to immerse myself in yoga and self-exploration while I'm there. Is there time for that? YES! There will be plenty of time to reflect, do your own practice, journal, photography, sketching, whatever your creative outlet is.
Are private yoga sessions and massage available? YES! Massages are offered for an additional fee at a local spa. We will provide contact info prior to arrival.
Should I bring any yoga props with me (blocks, strap)? You should bring everything you need to practice yoga, especially your mat. Blocks will be provided, but please bring a strap and your mat.
Additional Questions? Contact Sherry or go right to the chat option. We're happy to help!
Email: ssmithyoga@gmail.com Phone: 813-842-2366
Should I bring any yoga props with me (blocks, strap)? You should bring everything you need to practice yoga, especially your mat. Blocks will be provided, but please bring a strap and your mat.
Additional Questions? Contact Sherry or go right to the chat option. We're happy to help!
Email: ssmithyoga@gmail.com Phone: 813-842-2366