“Journey to the Island of the Gods” Bali Yoga Retreat

Bali’s Spiritual essence is truly a place where you can not only nourish your body & soul, but witness firsthand, contentment through LIVING, and SERVICE. Something all Balinese simply do. This is where in ’97 I first saw contentment. And why we have continued traveling there.

This is your chance to take a time-out from the demands of a busy-busy complicated life to simply connect to, and enjoy who YOU are. This, our 18th year, we are pleased to be teaming up with Annette Scott of Illuminated Living for this Yoga Retreat to the Island of the Gods”.

Experience Nature, Beauty, the Knowledge and Feeling of Living, Culture, Tradition, History, Meditation, Yoga, Pampering, Live Food, Healing, Rejuvenation and lots of fun. All in a culture that defines the “Spirit of Yoga”. We look forward to seeing you on our most amazing Bali Yoga retreat yet.

YOGA BOUND BALI YOGA RETREAT AND SPIRIT FESTIVAL.

Dates & Pricing for “Island of the Gods” Bali Yoga Retreat:

•  March 27th through April 12th
  Just $2995.00 (*excluding RT airfare)

What’s Included:

• Accommodation for 14 nights
• Daily Breakfast
• Two lunches
• Three Dinners
• Group Activities like walks through the rice fields, visits to many must see natural attractions like Kintamani and Batu (Mount) Baru then cycling to the Elephant Safari Park, Tickets to a traditional Balinese Show
• Full Festival Pass to the Bali Spirit Festival (5 days and 4 nights of Yoga, Meditation, Healing, Music) and so much more.
• 30+ Yoga Alliance CEC’s.
• Refer new travelers to earn $50.00 in cash or credit, per person booking.

INVESTING IN YOURSELF

We specialize in small groups so space is limited. It is important to reserve your spot today. A $500.00 deposit (non-refundable) holds your space with half the balance due by January 15th, 2015. And the remaining balance by February 15th. Or, you can pay in full now.

Whatever your payment choice, airfare needs to be booked as soon as possible to get the best price. I am getting about $1700.00 (and not guaranteed until it’s booked). That’s leaving Tampa on Friday the 27th at 7:15pm pm so that you don’t have to miss work. And arriving Denpasar (DPS) on the 29th at 2:35pm Sunday afternoon. It’s a beautiful connection. However, prices go up daily based on availability. I’d like everyone to be on the same plane to make transport quicker and more seamless. If you find a better price please let me know so that I can share.

Our Sample Itinerary:

• March 27th & 28th –Days One & Two – Depart Tampa, FL or whatever US city you’re leaving from
  Arrive Denpasar, Bali Indonesia March 29th (+ 2 day crossing International Date Line, layovers, etc.).
• March 29th – Day Three
  Airport Transfer to Sanur Beach, Check in, get settled, relax. Welcome Reception & Dinner on the Beach – Subject to everyone’s arrival time. Otherwise, the next night.
• March 30th – Day Four
  Sanur Beach, Breakfast is Included, Transition Day – Relax – Enjoy Spa Treatments, Swim, Read & Yoga on the Beach, Two hours of quiet reflection, silence, mediation, reading or other non-stimulating down time.
• March 31st – Day Five
  Sanur, Breakfast is included, Check out by 11:00 am, Transport to Ubud, Settle into our rooms, rest a bit then a walk about Central Ubud.
  

  BALINESE WOMEN CARRYING OFFERINGS TO THE TEMPLE.

  Ubud is a small village in central Bali and is regarded as the island’s cultural centre. It is famous as an arts and crafts hub, with the town and nearby villages brimming with artists’ workshops and galleries.Rested and relaxed, we’ll enjoy the Bali Spirit Yoga Festival.

• The Bali Spirit Festival is a spiritually charged event that inspires and unifies the global community in a synergy of global cultural collaboration and non-denominational spiritual practice with passionate and enthusiastic attendees from over 50 countries.
  

  YOGA BOUND AT THE BALI SPIRIT FESTIVAL

  It’s an amazing event that I’ve participated in the past 4 years. And will be presenting at in 2015. Your trip includes the basic pass which is Five days and 4 nights of yoga, dance, healing, the beat of world music and other activities and sights that are nearby. (except those designated Private).

  • April 1st – Day Six
    Ubud – And Day 1 of the Bali Spirit Festival. Breakfast is included , however, we leave for the festival early so you may want to purchase food there. It’s healthy, yummy and reasonably priced. This goes for the following days as well. Your Festival Passes do not include transport, however, we’ll take care of your morning transport to the Festival. Anytime you wish to leave the festival, transport is always available and is only about 20,000 rupiah or $2.25. When we leave the festival we’ll head to our rooms to shower and change for the evening music events. We can walk to these. All of this is part of your package but obviously you don’t have to attend any day or night events if you need downtime. Once you know the procedure, you can come and go as you like.
  • April 2nd – Day Seven
    Ubud – Day Two of the BSFestival
  • April 3rd – Day Eight
    Ubud – Day Three of the BSFestival
  • April 4th – Day Nine
    Ubud – Day Fourth of the BSFestival
  • April 5th – Day Ten
    Ubud – Final Day of the BSFestival
  • April 6th – Day Eleven
    Ubud – Breakfast included. Rest, relax, spa treatments…., Suggestions for Group Lunch and/or Dinner
  • April 7th – Day Twelve
    Ubud – Breakfast is included, however, keep in mind we leave before 8:00am for our Cycling and Elephant Safari Park Group Activity – We’ll take in the sights of Mt. Batur, one of Bali’s many Volcanoes. Then cycle down hill through traditional villages. Arriving at the Elephant Safari Park to enjoy a lunch, the elephant show and a ride atop one of these gentle giants through the local Taro Forest.
  • April 8th – Day Thirteen
    Ubud – Breakfast is included. Rest, relax, spa treatments or a nice gentle walk for those interested. Group Dinner and Show – Balinese Traditional Dance
  • April 9th – Day Fourteen
    Ubud – Breakfast is included. A visit to the Green School and a walk along Tjumphuhan (Campuhan) Ridge. Group Lunch
  • April 10th – Day Fifteen
    Ubud – Breakfast is included. A visit to Tirta Empul, Tampaksiring (20 km northeast from Ubud). One of the holiest temples in Bali built around hot springs that still bubble in the central courtyard. The Balinese come here to bathe and purify themselves physically and spiritually.
  • April 11th – Day Sixteen
    Ubud – Breakfast is included. Leisurely Day for last minute Shopping, Spa Treatments…..Farewell Dinner
  • April 12th – Day Seventeen
    Ubud – Breakfast is included. Depart Ubud around noon to Denpasar for flight home. Arrive home safely the same day (-1) depending on when your flight leaves.

  More details of What’s Included:

  • All land transportation
  • Non-shared Accommodation for 14 nights
  • Daily Breakfast, Two lunches, Three Dinners (excluding beverages)
  • Small group Activities like walks through the rice fields.
  • A group activity to visit Kintamani and Batu (Mount) Baru, one of Bali’s volcanoes, the Elephant Safari Park and Tirta Empul.
  • Tickets to a traditional Balinese Show
  • English speaking leader & guides
  • A Donation to the Jodie O’Shea Orphanage
  • Full Festival Pass (5 days) to the Bali Spirit Festival – does not include free entrance to VIP Events, Bhakti Nights, Charity Nights or the Shuttle Bus to and from the event except in the mornings.

  More About Bali:
  Popularly known as the “Island of the Gods”, Bali is only slightly bigger than Delaware but has it all. Sacred ruins rise out of jungles, monkeys frolic in temples, and artists are still revered. Bali features a varied landscape of mountains and hills, rugged coastlines with beautiful sandy beaches, forests, volcanoes and barren volcanic hillsides, lush rice terraces, as well as numerous archaeological, historical and cultural attractions. Bali truly is as alluring as everyone says, however, like the rest of the world, is changing rapidly. So don’t delay.

   

  What sets Bali apart from other places and nearby tropical destinations is the Balinese tradition, and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. It is a unique and highly spiritual culture, and is most evident in Ubud and further north. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith aren’t a show for tourists, but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities. Though getting harder to find, this more than anything won me over from my first visit in ’97, and why I continue to spend months each year in this paradise on earth. I can’t wait to share it with you.

  Our aim is to offer up the best of what Bali has to offer which is its natural beauty and culture. And though we’ll definitely be in some tourist areas, you can’t get away from that, we’ll also get out of these areas that have a heavy tourist footprint to share the beauty of old Bali for an experience of a lifetime. We’ll be visiting areas of Bali that continue to reflect their artistic and spiritual soul. Accommodations include gorgeous landscapes featuring exotic flowers and tropical vegetation. Being a ritualistic Hindu culture, meditation plays a large role in the daily life of the Balinese. Meditation comes naturally for the Balinese because from an early age, children are brought to temple ceremonies where they learn to meditate during prayer, sitting below the village priest as he chants mantra and rings his holy bell.

  

  DAILY OFFERINGS TO THE GODS

  Each morning, Balinese villagers perform the household ritual of giving offerings to their Gods, as well as the evil spirits. In this ritual they lay down burning incense and woven banana leaf and flower offerings, or cenang, throughout the home & workspace while blessing them in a silent meditation. The generations of meditating people have created a true in-bred serenity for most Balinese. The Balinese are living proof that meditation can create balance and clarity in one’s life.

  

  YOGA BOUND AT GALUNGAN BALI

  Unlike most other islands in Indonesia that are largely dominated by Muslims, Bali is a hub of Hindu religion. While a typical Balinese life is highly suffused with Hindu culture, the tiny offerings are the most common signs of Hinduism found in every house, restaurant, work place, airport and souvenir stalls. Bali is also a place where many festivals take place. Each of the more than 20,000 temples in Bali holds at least two festivals in a year. Notable festivals that you might come across are funerals, Galungan and Kuningan, Nyepi (Hindu new Year and many other national public holidays.

  We look forward to your joining us to unravel the mysteries of ancient kingdoms at ornately carved ruins. Experience the serenity of holy water temples. Meet villagers in their homes and farms to learn about their daily lives. And surround yourself with the natural beauty of terraced hills, blossoming orchids and pristine coastlines.

  Expectations:
  Do not expect this to be like anything you’ve ever experienced before. So please come with an open respectful mind, flexible attitude and no expectations.

  Our trips are designed to enjoy the differences in the cultures of the countries we visit. Along with their culture, alfresco, or outdoor living is the hallmark of the Balinese life and experience. The architecture in Bali is very beautiful featuring ornate hand carved elements like wood frame windows and door that are designed to let the air in to allow for circulation so necessary in the tropics. Most lodging we offer has AC, and western toilets. But in some cases you may only have a fan which is usually quite sufficient.

  The eco system is quite healthy in this part of the world as they try to stay away from pesticides. So you may find ants and mosquitos in your room. Never keep any food in your room. Use your mosquito net if available. And bring ear plugs. Also keep in mind that Bali is in the tropics, just 8 degrees from the Equator. Daytime temperatures range from 75-90F, often with humidity (but nothing like Florida). However, Ubud and the area around Kintamani are in/near the mountains so you may need a sweater, or jacket. If you bring a jacket be sure it’s something lightweight that can also protect you from rain.

  Travel Documents:
  Passport:

  • Should be valid for at least 6 months before your scheduled departure from the USA.
  • Should be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the USA.
  • It should have the recommended number of blank pages.
  • The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Ammendments and Endorsements” are not acceptable.

  Visas for Bali:
  Citizens of the USA will need a visa which can be purchased on arrival for $25.00 US. If you are not a US citizen or do not travel with a US passport. Or, will be traveling independently before/after this trip, then your entry/departure requirements may be different. (With airfare being your biggest expense you may opt to come sooner or leave later.) If this is part of your plan please let me know.

  Vaccination Information:
  Though I have been traveling more than 20 years for up to a year at a time, and throughout areas with Dengue and Malaria, I have not had a vaccine. However, it is up to you to make this call as it is a very personal decision. Dengue is in Bali, but I have been fortunate not to get it. Wearing lightweight clothing is a great protector. As is a motorized fan that you can put at your feet while at dinner, or attach to a belt on your being. It does have OFF in it. And it works better than natural sprays. For more info visit the CDC website.

  Before Your Trip:

  • Sort out your Passport requirements.
  • Check with the CDC for vaccine recommendations.
  • Have a medical checkup.
  • Pick up any necessary medication, prescription and over-the-counter. However, most things are available OTC in Bali.
  • Have a dental and/or eye checkup.
  • Purchase Travel Insurance. Often this option is available when purchasing your airfare. And some credit card companies cover certain things when you use your card to purchase your airline ticket.

  What to Bring:
  Bring as little as possible, one suitcase to check that’s no more than 15 – 20 kilos. It will be easier for you, and for us as we are transported to our various destinations, and don’t want to pay for an extra car just for luggage. Bali is casual. Consider two tops to one pair of pants, a summer dress, some yoga outfits, a sweater and/or lightweight rain jacket. Maybe even an umbrella, a sunhat and sunscreen. And just know that getting your laundry done is very inexpensive. Or, buy something really cool to wear there then take home. Casual shoes or flip flops (two pair) and one pair of comfortable walking shoes (I like Keene’s). Bring your yoga mat, preferably a travel mat. Or, buy one there then donate it when you leave. This can be taken on the plane. As can a purse and computer bag, or roll on.

  Wine is expensive in Bali. And the local wine is just OK. If you are so inclined, please bring two bottles of your favorite wine (that’s all you are allowed to bring in) bubble wrapped and packed in your checked bag. We’ll all enjoy a glass at our group Welcome and Farewell Dinners.

  Check-in and check-out:
  People arrive at all different times of the day due to flights however aim to arrive early to unwind before yoga. Official room check-in is 2 pm although rooms are often available earlier. On the last day room check-out is 12 pm however as most flights leave Bali in the evening you may opt to leave your bags at reception and use the hotel facilities. A late room check-out can be requested. Transfers to the airport are included unless you decide to stay longer than the retreat dates. Or, are flying to another destination. However, getting to the airport from Ubud isn’t more than $30.00.

  How to get here:
  Fly into Bali’s Denpasar International Airport (DPS) from many airports. Airport pick-up is included in the retreat price. Once your flight is booked email us your arrival time and flight number and our driver will meet you. Upon registration a letter with more retreat information is emailed to you.

  Not Included:

  • Your airfare to Bali. And there are some good deals out there right now.
  • Visa on Arrival (approx. $10.00 for 10 days, $25.00 for 30 days).
  • Personal Services other than those mentioned above.
  • Food & Drink – other than what is mentioned above. (You can eat at most restaurants for $4.00 – $8.00.)
  • Personal purchases and incidentals
  • Tours not outlined above, usually about $25.00 – $75.00 per excursion.
  • Spa Treatments not outlined above.
  • Departure Tax 150,000rp (approximately $15.00)

  Additional Important Info:

  • There are ATM’s all over Bali. I would suggest using these rather than bringing a lot of money. Schwab Bank reimburses for any ATM fee, and since these can get costly, it’s worth opening up an account with them.
  • Internet is readily available, though not high speed. But we suggest getting off the grid and unplugging as much as you can. The benefits of this are something everyone should experience, as you completely unwind, and free yourself from the demands of your modern western lifestyle, to go inward for a deeper self discovery experience.

  More on Yoga and Bali:
  For all of us that have experienced it, we know that Yoga is a gift that serves and nourishes us at every level of our being. It contributes to greater well being in all domains of life and will help you discover gifts within yourself that have remained unopened since your childhood – gifts of peace, harmony, laughter, and love.” No matter where you are right now in your life, whatever transition may be occurring, this retreat will enable you to tap into the vast resources deep inside yourself, and come out a stronger, healthier, happier person.

  It is truly a once in a lifetime experience that will “Transform Your Life”. It is an ideal retreat for single’s, couple’s, beginners or seasoned practicioners with many various styles of Yoga, and Meditation integrated seamlessly. With airfare your biggest expense, we would really recommend staying longer. I am offering an all inclusive adventure the week prior for those that can take a longer time in Bali.

  The Benefits of this Yoga and Meditation Retreat:

  • Tips on cultivating a healthier lifestyle.
  • Greater strength, movement, power and flexibility.
  • Reduced Stress and Tension on a deeper level.
  • More awareness, focus and concentration.
  • Self Inquiry into your thoughts and feelings.
  • Recognizing your strengths with positive thoughts.
  • Letting go of limiting ideas and out dated thoughts and beliefs.
  • Shifting from force to power to acceptance.
  • Developing a strong sense of self and purpose.
  • Renew your joy and zest for life.
  • Improved concentration.
  • Breath control – the breath is one of the most used tools in the practice of yoga and meditation. The mind gets distracted with things that have happened in the past, future, and everything else. The breath is something that happens in the present, every second, and focusing on it will help us to find the concentration.

  What participants and students say about Deb:

  • There are many words that are appropriate in describing her…kind, thoughtful, positive, honest, trustworthy, reliable, hard working, committed; All traits that make for a very good person, a very good teacher. In addition, there are the traits that she possesses that are a must for an effective person, an effective teacher. She is an excellent listener, passionate about what she does, respectful of and open to differences in viewpoints and opinions, of cultures and traditions, of lifestyles and abilities. She is understanding and encouraging in the best of life’s circumstances as well as it’s worst and she is truly an uplifting individual who imparts an energy that can make a real difference in a teaching/learning environment. I have had the pleasure of knowing Deb for 13 years and she has and continues to be a very positive and welcome influence in my life. Wanda
  • “Deb is dedicated to her students’ well-being. Her extensive experience and training allows her to draw from various styles of yoga to help students develop practices tailored to their individual needs. She provides precise instruction and coaching in an encouraging and nurturing environment.” Mona
  • “Debra is an articulate, caring & compassionate woman. She is a wonderfully earthy, soulful spirit & gives nothing less than her all to anything she chooses to do. A truly special lady…irreplaceable!” Sally
  • “Deb’s sensitivity and compassion are a natural fit for being an excellent yoga teacher. She has used her management skills well in business and now can fully give and receive in the symphony of yoga. She can intuit her students and their needs and help them find harmony in their movements and in grounding with nature. She has finally been able to put her gifts to the best and highest use of her learned and given talents.” Pat
  • “Deb has taught me many things not only through her vast knowledge and experience but also by her example. While teaching, she is always mindful of the balance between the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual sides. It makes for one of the most gratifying and fulfilling educational experiences I’ve ever had.” Kelly
  • “Deb brings personal integrity and a sense of balance to the practice of yoga, and to all she does.” Paul McGuire
  • “Deb is the real deal. A sincere person, her most conscious life aim appears to be her understanding and sympathy for humanity. She is a wise and empathetic advisor/counselor with excellent communication skills, a pleasurable emotional nature, and strong, open handed attitude. She is an inspiration.” Lisa
  • “Deb is an intriguing, strong and wonderful woman to boot. She has great insights on life and I continue to learn so much from her.” Shannon
  • “Debra was my teacher for my yoga certification during the time that I was recovering from my first round of cancer treatment. She was patient, encouraging and enthusiastic about my training. She was also extremely helpful in suggesting modifications of poses that I could use for seniors and cancer patients. I was also impressed with Debra’s in depth knowledge of yoga, the history of yoga and the sanskrit names for the poses.” Sharon

  YOGA IN BALI RETREAT TESTIMONIALS:

  • “My husband and I wanted some time away together. Somewhere where we could relax yet be active. This yoga week in Bali has surpassed all our expectations with its people, beauty and intensity. We have renewed, relaxed and reenergized.”
  • “I came to the retreat not knowing what to expect, but looking for inspiration. I found that and more. Deb and Roger were wonderful and created a harmonious, non-judgmental, serene environment. The retreat left me feeling recharged and invigorated. And looking forward to developing my own yoga practice. I would definitely recommend the retreat and would love to return.”
  • “Book the retreat!!! You will not be disappointed. This retreat provides the perfect environment to get away from it all, pamper yourself, meet new people, spend time on your own, rejuvenate and develop your yoga practice. Deb and Roger are very professional and inspiring.”
  • “Debra’s yoga knowledge was vast, her guidance reassuring. The treatments were healing and rejuvenating. Bali is such a wonderful place to go inward, relax and transform. It was a very fulfilling couple of weeks.”
  • “An amazing week with amazing people. Debra created the perfect environment to promote both enthusiasm and peace. My yoga has improved dramatically through Debra’s daily instruction and adjustments.
  • “The Bali retreat was excellent with the perfect mix of yoga and tourism. The yoga itself catered to all levels and Debra and Roger were excellent at providing hands on assistance to those who needed it (I was one!). I think the supervision really helped advance my practice. Ubud and its surroundings were also a highlight and somewhere I would readily return. The accommodation was fantastic and the organized non-yoga activities were a breath of fresh air. The food was wonderful and whole retreat was flexible – I never felt that I was caught up in a lettuce-eating yoga boot-camp, in fact, it was nothing like it.”
  • “A well-balanced, nurturing retreat where it’s all about You! Debra’s Yoga sessions are effective and versatile, making sure that everyone of any yoga level will get the most out of their practice. I realized that in a very short time I can improve my flexibility, attempt new postures and learn to listen to my body’s capabilities and limits. Combined with pampering Spa treatments and Debra’s local knowledge of the area, this retreat will leave you feeling renewed, empowered and ready to face the world again!”
  • “The week in Bali has been journey of self discovery and reflection. I arrived anxious, stressed and tired and I left feeling lighter, happier and clearer in my mind. Thanks to Debra and the wonderful group of people on the retreat, the practice of yoga, meditation and eating a healthy diet are now part of me and my everyday living. Through meeting these beautiful people I have gained so much inspiration and knowledge about yoga and life that I have made many positive changes to my own lifestyle. This retreat was like chicken soup for the soul. Thank you again so much – I can’t wait to return to the next one!”
  • “Along with my husband, we recently treated ourselves to an amazing three weeks in Bali with Debra. Being totally removed from our day to day grind, we were able to submerse ourselves into yoga practice and achieve an inner peace and relaxation (multiple full body massages did help!), that we have never had. We are beginners at yoga and we were thrilled at our improvements within the week through the support and guidance of Debra and Roger. I cannot recommend this retreat more highly.”
  • “It has been a privilege to experience this gift of teaching, learning and healing. I leave with a strong commitment to follow my yoga practice and my own goals, and an open heart to all that comes my way.”
  • “Thank you for a wonderful retreat. My yoga, core strength, breathing and focus have definitely improved AND I feel absolutely radiant! Well done! I will be back.”
  • “The standout thing for me on this retreat was slowing down my pace. I was so wound up on arrival that the yoga, food (and company), beautiful setting and unbelievable pampering treatments completely bought me peace. I can’t thank you enough. I feel completely rejuvenated.”
  • “I came away from the retreat feeling energized and pleased with my improvement. It was a really peaceful retreat and a wonderful experience.”
  • “The YogaBound Retreat is led extremely well. Debra and Roger have what it takes to relax one’s mind, body and spirit. The retreat was so much more than I anticipated. I highly recommend this retreat without reservation.”
  • “Let yourself experience an indulgent couple of weeks. Everyone deserves it. Just forget time and worry and let yourself go. These yoga sessions will only bring you closer to a magical experience in a magical place.”
  • “I planned this escape after going through a tough time and thought it was time to give something to ‘me’. Debra and Roger were amazing and provided classes to cater for all yoga abilities; adequate support to ensure correct technique and just a genuine open trusting environment both physically and emotionally. I met some amazing like minded people. And will definitely do it again!”
  • “Being in the tropics, eating wholesome food, exercising daily and being pampered was definitely the right ingredients to revamp the feeling of relaxation and happiness. To wake and commence yoga at 8am was calming, the massages and body treatments allowed more time for my mind and body to release built up tension. By the end of the YogaBound Retreat there was a great sense of achievement as my yoga had progressed and I had had a wonderful time by myself and in the company of wonderful people”.