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A Romantic Retreat |
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2008-01-18 |
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With Valentine's Day just around the corner, Debbie and Matt are planning a well-deserved romantic break. February can be a dreary time of year, so what better excuse than to get away from it all, just the two of them, to somewhere really special - somewhere to unwind and spoil themselves, for a change.
Having weighed up all the possibilities, Debbie and Matt decide that a serviced apartment will provide exactly the luxury they're looking for; space, flexibility and privacy, combined with all the comforts and service of a hotel. Browsing through the website, discovering the host of locations available, they finally opt to treat each other to a spa break in the stunningly beautiful, sleepy Cotswolds. Spa breaks are becoming more and more popular with young and old alike, offering the ultimate in pure self-indulgence and relaxation - and the perfect antidote to modern-day stress! Booking the apartment through the company is a total breeze - this is an organisation totally focused on customer care and it seems that nothing is too much trouble for its friendly and helpful staff to ensure that Debbie and Matt will have a great time.
Driving up through the Cotswolds countryside, with its gently sloping hills and honeyed limestone cottages, Matt starts to have just a couple of reservations. Debbie laughs as she reassures him that 'all this spa business' isn't just a 'girlie thing', and that his macho image will remain intact. After all, pampering isn't just the prerogative of the female of the species. And she promises that, no - she will not let on to his workmates. Matt remains unconvinced, but any doubts that he may have harboured soon begin to melt away, as they arrive at the apartment.
Their 'home from home' is everything they both expected and were promised, and more; light, airy, spacious, superbly-equipped, tastefully decorated and impeccably clean throughout. Awaiting them is a luxury hamper, tempting chocolates and, in the fridge, a selection of 'nibbles', whilst a bottle of chilled bubbly beckons invitingly.
The apartment is not far from the wonderful city of Cheltenham, and there's plenty of time for Debbie and Matt to take in the atmosphere and do a little shopping, before heading back to the apartment to prepare for their spa treatment while sipping their champagne and sampling the 'light bites' from the fridge.
A little while later, highly skilled, trained and experienced therapists arrive at the apartment to deliver the spa treatment. Armed with all the necessary equipment, it seems that they've forgotten nothing, even providing restful music, mood lighting and incense to add to the peaceful ambience. Already savouring the effects of the champagne and the cosiness of the apartment, Debbie and Matt each settle down to enjoy an incredibly loosening back, neck and shoulder massage, a relaxing facial and an amazing hand and foot ritual. Just the thing to restore the equilibrium. What bliss!
When the therapists have said their goodbyes and after a heavenly snooze, Debbie and Matt get changed and round off a wonderful evening with a first class dinner at a nearby Japanese restaurant. The meal is delicious and the service is faultless. Somehow, given the entire perfection of the weekend so far, that doesn't surprise them.
In the morning, refreshed and invigorated and keen to make the most of the rest of their break, the happy couple emerge from the comfort of their sumptuous king size bed to explore the local market, before partaking of a hearty breakfast and heading for home.
As they make their way, energised and rejuvenated, Matt has to admit that this has been just the break that they both needed. Debbie is relaxed and happy, and he feels ten years younger. He'll be sure to tell the lads at work all about it, when he gets back - one or two of them could do with a bit of chilling out, too - not to mention a facial...
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Richard Rspad |
2006-11-20 |
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Title: Romantic Destinations in Colorado
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The Rocky Mountains are full of locations that just ooze romance. The romantic destinations in Colorado are considered some of the best in the country and here are a few highlights. Romantic Destinations in Colorado The majesty and beauty of the mountains of Colorado make them an excellent shelter for your next romantic retreat. Snow capped hills with many hiking trails, high clear lakes perfect for swimming and fishing, and ski resorts all offer vacationers to this state activities to keep them busy. Of course, all of that cold mountain air may leave you in the mood to spend some time in front of a roaring fire – which may be the entire point of romantic destinations in Colorado. The area around the city of Colorado Springs, Colorado is home to many resorts and inns that are extremely welcoming to couples seeking a few nights of romantic solitude. The Our Hearts Inn Bed and Breakfast, which is located in the Old Colorado City historical district of Colorado Springs, is a great retreat for your next romantic stay. The area around the inn is filled with streets dotted with antique shops and other shopping delights, and gourmet restaurants all governed by the vision of Pikes Peak. While the location of the Our Hearts Inn Bed and Breakfast may be the first thing that grabs your attention, the amenities within the inn are what will make your stay delightful. The cottages that are on the inn's property both include rooms with Jacuzzi tubs for two, so you can make your night extra special. The cottages also include kitchens, and while they're perfect for an intimate stay, the larger size means that they can also accommodate families on extended vacations. The Cottage on the Knob is not actually on the property with the rest of the resort, rather, this Victorian cottage is located in a residential area nearby. There are three rooms in the main house that can be used for your romantic destinations in Colorado, and other amenities include delicious, home-cooked style breakfasts and an atmosphere that makes you feel cozy and at home. Specials include the Lucky Lover's Gambling Delight, which includes numerous gambling themed treats (like Lotto for Love) as well as wine in room and spa treatments off premises. You can even get breakfast in bed if you choose to stay in a room in the main house! There are many ways to spend a romantic weekend – and if you are going to be near Colorado, there are also many different spots to spend that weekend in. No matter where you choose to spend your time, romantic destinations in Colorado are sure to warm you up on those cold winter nights! Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on romantic getaways.
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John Gibb |
2006-09-10 |
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Title: Honeymoons - A most precious time that may only come once in your life.
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A wedding is one of the most stressful events of your life. With all the ceremony, anxiety and organisation, it’s no wonder that people started taking a holiday straight after marriage to get away from the relatives and just enjoy each other’s company. Honeymoons have changed over the years. Destinations that are more romantic are often being replaced with more exotic getaways, sunny or tropical countries. Some people do still pick the romantic places however, not necessarily going abroad to find the perfect retreat. Many couples take their honeymoon in a place that has nostalgic value, like a city that the couple met in or had their first date. An increasing trend for honeymoons is totally wild and unexpected places like safaris or mountain climbing. The word honeymoon is hard to pin down for an origin. Some say that it comes from ancient times in Babylon when the father of a bride, in an attempt to make the husband more virile, would supply him with as much mead as he could drink for a month. The mead is made from honey and the moon denotes a period of a month. This theory however is often set aside in favour of other theories. One put forth by an old English dictionary suggests that instead of a month of sweetness the term refers to the suggestion that a new marriage starts pleasant and sweet but will soon wane just like the moon. Honeymooners should be careful when picking a location. First of all, many travel agents offer deals for honeymooners so shop around and don’t be afraid to say that you are going on a honeymoon. The same goes when you are at your destination; many hotel owners will do you favours such as a bottle of wine if they know you are celebrating marriage. This can go a huge way towards making the time even more special, along with a thoughtful gift and maybe some flowers, and will help you have a honeymoon that you will never forget. John Gibb is the owner of honemoon ideas , For more information on Honeymoons check out http://www.honeymoon-intelligence.info
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Richard Rspad |
2006-08-15 |
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Title: Romantic Honeymoon Locations
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Getting married is a joyous event, but can be a slight bit stressful. Romantic honeymoon locations are just the ticket to leaving the stress behind and focusing on the romantic element of the marriage. Romantic Honeymoon Locations Your honeymoon is the destined to be the most romantic and memorable vacation you'll ever take. Whether you decide to go to an island paradise, a relaxing spa retreat, or a thrilling outdoor adventure, your honeymoon is definitely the trip you'll always remember. The only difficult part of planning this special vacation may be agreeing on which of the many romantic honeymoon location you will choose! One of the most romantic honeymoon locations in the world has to be the Fiji islands. Fiji, an archipelago of islands located in the South Pacific, is composed of over 322 islands. 106 of these islands are inhabited, and the two largest islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain 87 percent of the population of Fiji. This island nation is very welcoming to tourists, and does all it can to make honeymoons special for the couples that choose to spend their time here. One of the foremost romantic honeymoon spots on Fiji is Castaway Island resort, located on the mostly unpopulated island of Mamanuca. This four star resort offers couples the excitement of water activities such as scuba diving, combined with delicious food and gourmet experiences. With the al fresco dining here at Castaway Island considered some of the best in the world, you can experience the full range of Fijian cooking – fresh seafood, desserts and more. The activities here are also excellent – windsurfing, sailing and certified scuba diving classes all make for a great romantic stay. Another of the romantic honeymoon resorts on Fiji is found in the Qamea Beach Club, located on the northern island of Qamea. This small resort (though still four star) offers just 11 bures (beach bungalows) but is big on experiences. The authentic accommodations and limit of just 24 guests (age 12 and older) means that your secluded honeymoon will not be spoiled by a crowd. There are also around 20 different dive locations in the area, perfect for romantic adventure. The spa offers a special Qamea massage that is perfect for relaxation and resting after the adventures of your day. No matter what part of Fiji you choose to stay in, you'll be certain to find perfect romantic honeymoon experience. Here, the warm waters and exotic scenery will be sure to make you feel like you're in another world entirely, and the untouched and uncrowded areas will be perfect for you and your new spouse to spend some quality time together. Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.
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Jill Brennan |
2006-05-14 |
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Title: How to Be Romantic
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No one is born romantic. But like most things in life, being romantic is something that can be learned. Although romantic gestures may seem like they come easily to some people that is only because they’ve had lots of practice and because they are in tune with what motivates the opposite sex. Because that’s all that is involved. Being romantic involves finding out what your partner wants (not what they need!), and then finding a unique way to meet those wants. Pretty simple, huh? Let’s get one thing cleared up first. Being romantic isn’t about some grand extravagant gesture like flying first class to Paris for a 2 week romantic blitz. It’s about the little things. Little things are simple things that you do for your loved one. Despite the fact that they are "little" they can mean a lot because it illustrates that you took time out of your busy life just to show them how much you care. One thing that most people want, male and female, is to feel special and loved. It’s how you show them that you love them, where the challenge comes in. Some people feel loved when they are told repeatedly that they are loved. Others feel loved when they are touched frequently. And others see love in gestures and everyday kindnesses. Of course, there are others that may need all three of the above to really feel loved and secure but usually there is one need that dominates. You need to find out what your partner needs and then you can begin working out what method you will use to romance them. Not sure what your loved one prefers? Do an experiment or three and see how they respond? You’ll very quickly work it out. What can you do if your loved one wants to hear how much you love them? You need to tell them. But don’t just tell them and have it coming off like some kind of rote response to hello or goodbye or please pass the pepper. Think about different ways you can get your message across. You could: . Post them a good old fashioned love letter . Send a romantic email . Text them a love message . Place a love note somewhere it will be found easily, in their car or lunch bag or under their pillow or taped to the phone receiver or their computer . For the kid in all of us! Use multi-colored, sidewalk chalk to draw a BIG heart in red and write “I love you" in the middle of the heart. Do this someplace prominent like your driveway so that when your partner comes home they will see it right away. . Make a long list of the many reasons why you love your partner and have the list framed and present it to them. . If you don’t live together, call your loved one just to say goodnight and recite a favorite love poem over the phone. . Give your loved one a compliment, about how great they look or what their smile does to you If your loved one needs regular physical contact to feel loved you can: . Give them a massage – backs and feet at the end of a work week is always well received! . Keep in physical contact as often as you can, for example, when watching TV together, eating dinner (it doesn’t just have to be hands, you can make sure your feet or legs are touching) . Give them random hugs . Put your arm around your loved one in public . Hold hands as you walk side by side . Cuddle up in your pj’s and watch a romantic movie together . Make sure you kiss them when you get home and kiss before you leave If your actions speak louder than words for your loved one then you’ll want to focus on gestures that express your feelings. You can try: . While your partner showers, heat up his or her towel in the dryer. . Have flowers delivered to partner at work. . Surprise your partner by arriving home with their favorite drink, snack, or ice-cream. . Arrange for an intimate lunch date with your partner. Then afterward, send a virtual card. Tell them how much you enjoyed lunch together. . Call your partner in the middle of the day to discuss your romantic plans for that evening. . Write your own love coupon offering an hour of your time as their personal love slave. . Cook a favorite meal for your partner and then eat it, slowly, by candlelight. . Pick a bouquet of wild flowers and present them with a kiss. . Call spontaneously at their work to say “I am thinking of you.” If they like all of the above then you can really go wild and mix it all up together. The only limit is your own imagination and the desire to make it happen. If you're wanting help to write that special love letter, email, text or note then check out Jill Brennan's range of easy-to-use love templates. Use them as is or incorporate them into your own unique letters. To find out more visit the romantic love letter website.
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2008-02-07 |
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Title: A Luxury Retreat In Tuscany
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A Luxury retreat by its very nature needs obviously to be luxurious, but to be a retreat it also needs to be hidden away, not easy to find, and somewhere you can feel totally relaxed and away from everyday pressures. La Bandita in Tuscany Italy easily fulfills all these requirements.
If you decide to hire a car or even heaven forbid drive from another European country it is quite likely you won’t find La Bandita at the first or even second time of trying, indeed you will probably need to call La Bandita to get directions it is that well hidden away up a track needing four wheel drive.
You can stand outside La Bandita and look to all corners of the compass and you will see nothing but hills, some sheep and perhaps some sheepdogs. Try listening for the roar of traffic, or the sounds of other people in the vicinity, and you won’t hear much if anything at all.
That pretty well deals with the retreat aspect of luxury retreat, so now what about the luxury at La Bandita.
This isn’t a typical Tuscany farmhouse conversion, all rustic, wood, and exposed brickwork.
What you have to do here is think of infinity pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, giant beanbags, huge sunken bathtubs, massive waterfall showers, white sofas, eight huge soothing minimalistic bedrooms, and this gives you an idea of why it is a luxury retreat..
In fact they are so big, the conversion could easily have been sixteen bedrooms, but then it would lose that romantic getaway package, luxury retreat aspect that makes La Bandita so absolutely wonderful, and such a great place to stay. By the way there is also a converted outbuilding called The Pigsty which with its own sitting room and kitchen making it perfect for honeymooners
This is real solitude and tranquility, stood within its four acres of land, and yet you can if you choose nip in and out of nearby villages, which is ideal, because for most people a luxury retreat means getting away from others, yet able to see people as and when you want.
The atmosphere at La Bandita is really a cross between an hotel, and someone’s home, where you are staying with friends over a long weekend. This atmosphere really works so it may not be right if you are a recluse, and a luxury retreat means privacy as well. Part of the charm of La Bandita is the quality of the dinners that the chef produces, and they are eaten in a large open plan space in the garden, dinner party style. It can be nice to meet other guests in this way, and the quality of the wine certainly helps to make conversation flow. For the less sociable, then a private dining area is arranged or else a quick and easy drive to Pienza a beautiful Renaissance town with a lovely piazza, and good restaurants.
Exploring further afield from the luxury retreat that is La Bandita is no problem when you tire of the isolation, if you ever do, and Siena for example is but an hour away, and in truth there are at least half a dozen small medieval towns to explore within easy reach. The infinity pool and a glass of wine could well be enough instead.
La Bandita is a real Luxury Retreat in Tuscany, and perfect as part of a Romantic getaway weekend package.
For More Information on Italy go to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/European-Hotels/Italy/
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ron |
2008-01-24 |
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Title: Planning for Christian women''s retreat
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Churches across the world understand the benefits of a booming Christian women's retreat. This is merely a group of women that assemble often to cheer one another with the Word of God and talk about various topics. Christian Women retreat is an occasion for women to be revitalized as they thrash out unlike issues in their personal and official lives and how they are relevant to religious living and being a brave observer. Few other things, like assignment projects, trips and bear groups are also archetypal during times of women's retreat. They are in turn extremely special part of church, which reaches out to others when they want.
Often, a women's bureau are the people that plan up for Christian women's retreat. Planning an unforgettable women's retreat is something, which is not hard, but it take little time. A women's retreat must be something, which is planned and detained no less than once or twice a year. It further needs to be a particular event that is well planned and designed so that it would really be a superb and pleasurable event for every woman who participates in it.
When the women’s bureau states to plan for women's retreat, they need consider that the affair have be planned to lodge up women from all steps of life. Women of all ages, countries, and races should be allowed to attend this retreat; so the prime step when planning for a memorable retreat is to decide upon the theme or subject for the Christian women’s retreat, which would be fit for women for all the steps of life. It is also significant that the theme is one, which comprises all women, both independently and as a group. Additionally it is an extremely vital step as when the women get jointly for this retreat, it would be the real time of consideration, reflection, giving out, caring, relationship, and renewal.
The initial part of the superb retreat should be the hearty welcome. You would desire to affectionately welcome every woman as she comes from the door. Next, you would need to plan a first-class, healthy meal for the retreat. You might as well want to arrange the lunch, which is light and also healthy. Sandwiches, fruit, vegetables salads, soups, and any dessert like cheesecake, chocolate cake or even cookies could be a great idea for lunch. If your Christian women's retreat is more than a day long, you would have to plan every day individually. It is excellent to have a daily arrangement that you chase.
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Peter R Stewart |
2008-02-08 |
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Title: A Luxury Retreat In Tuscany
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ALuxury retreat by its very nature needs obviously to be luxurious, but to be a retreat it also needs to be hidden away, not easy to find, and somewhere you can feel totally relaxed and away from everyday pressures. La Bandita in Tuscany Italy easily fulfills all these requirements. If you decide to hire a car or even heaven forbid drive from another European country it is quite likely you won’t find La Bandita at the first or even second time of trying, indeed you will probably need to call La Bandita to get directions it is that well hidden away up a track needing four wheel drive. You can stand outside La Bandita and look to all corners of the compass and you will see nothing but hills, some sheep and perhaps some sheepdogs. Try listening for the roar of traffic, or the sounds of other people in the vicinity, and you won’t hear much if anything at all. That pretty well deals with the retreat aspect of luxury retreat, so now what about the luxury at La Bandita.
This isn’t a typical Tuscany farmhouse conversion, all rustic, wood, and exposed brickwork. What you have to do here is think of infinity pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, giant beanbags, huge sunken bathtubs, massive waterfall showers, white sofas, eight huge soothing minimalistic bedrooms, and this gives you an idea of why it is a luxury retreat.. In fact they are so big, the conversion could easily have been sixteen bedrooms, but then it would lose that romantic getaway package, luxury retreat aspect that makes La Bandita so absolutely wonderful, and such a great place to stay. By the way there is also a converted outbuilding called The Pigsty which with its own sitting room and kitchen making it perfect for honeymooners This is real solitude and tranquility, stood within its four acres of land, and yet you can if you choose nip in and out of nearby villages, which is ideal, because for most people a luxury retreat means getting away from others, yet able to see people as and when you want. The atmosphere at La Bandita is really a cross between an hotel, and someone’s home, where you are staying with friends over a long weekend. This atmosphere really works so it may not be right if you are a recluse, and a luxury retreat means privacy as well. Part of the charm of La Bandita is the quality of the dinners that the chef produces, and they are eaten in a large open plan space in the garden, dinner party style. It can be nice to meet other guests in this way, and the quality of the wine certainly helps to make conversation flow. For the less sociable, then a private dining area is arranged or else a quick and easy drive to Pienza a beautiful Renaissance town with a lovely piazza, and good restaurants. Exploring further afield from the luxury retreat that is La Bandita is no problem when you tire of the isolation, if you ever do, and Siena for example is but an hour away, and in truth there are at least half a dozen small medieval towns to explore within easy reach. The infinity pool and a glass of wine could well be enough instead. La Bandita is a real Luxury Retreat in Tuscany, and perfect as part of a Romantic getaway weekend package. For More Information on Italy go to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/European-Hotels/Italy/
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BR Cornett |
2007-07-23 |
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Title: Smoky Mountain Getaway - The Ultimate Romantic Retreat
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Imagine sipping champagne on the porch of your luxury cabin while watching the sun set over lush green mountains. The land is quiet, with only the occasional birdsong. No cell phones, no traffic noise and no children. It's just you, your loved one, and the mountain beauty that surrounds you. Can you imagine it? Great, because you can also experience it firsthand in the Great Smoky Mountains around Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The Great Smoky Mountains Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest protected areas of land east of the Rocky Mountains. Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the park covers more than 500,000 acres of forest and mountain. It is home to more than 60 native mammals and over 200 species of birds. The Smoky Mountains are also a hiker's paradise, offering hundreds of miles of well-maintained trails for serious and recreational hikers alike. The Wonders of "Leaf Season" Mention "leaf season" to anyone familiar with the Smoky Mountains, and they'll know exactly what you mean. Every fall, the forests transform from the greens of spring to the oranges, yellows and reds of autumn. Travelers from all over the country come to witness this natural explosion of color and majesty. Romantic Cabin Getaways in Gatlinburg Every year, nearly 10,000 people get married in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Because of this, the mountain town has become known as the unofficial wedding and honeymoon capital of the South. With its small-town charm, wooded seclusion and breathtaking mountain vistas, it's no wonder so many people equate "Gatlinburg" with "romantic retreat." Where to Stay You'll find a number of cabin rental companies in the Gatlinburg area. For specific information on rental packages and offers, please see the "Learn More" section below. Wherever you stay, you'll have the beauty and majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains, because it follows you everywhere in Gatlinburg! * Copyright 2006, Brandon Cornett. You may republish this article online as long as you keep the hyperlinks active.
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Peter R Stewart |
2008-02-07 |
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Title: A Luxury Retreat In Tuscany
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A Luxury retreat by its very nature needs obviously to be luxurious, but to be a retreat it also needs to be hidden away, not easy to find, and somewhere you can feel totally relaxed and away from everyday pressures. La Bandita in Tuscany Italy easily fulfills all these requirements.
If you decide to hire a car or even heaven forbid drive from another European country it is quite likely you won't find La Bandita at the first or even second time of trying, indeed you will probably need to call La Bandita to get directions it is that well hidden away up a track needing four wheel drive.
You can stand outside La Bandita and look to all corners of the compass and you will see nothing but hills, some sheep and perhaps some sheepdogs. Try listening for the roar of traffic, or the sounds of other people in the vicinity, and you won't hear much if anything at all.
That pretty well deals with the retreat aspect of luxury retreat, so now what about the luxury at La Bandita.
This isn't a typical Tuscany farmhouse conversion, all rustic, wood, and exposed brickwork.
What you have to do here is think of infinity pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, giant beanbags, huge sunken bathtubs, massive waterfall showers, white sofas, eight huge soothing minimalistic bedrooms, and this gives you an idea of why it is a luxury retreat..
In fact they are so big, the conversion could easily have been sixteen bedrooms, but then it would lose that romantic getaway package, luxury retreat aspect that makes La Bandita so absolutely wonderful, and such a great place to stay. By the way there is also a converted outbuilding called The Pigsty which with its own sitting room and kitchen making it perfect for honeymooners
This is real solitude and tranquility, stood within its four acres of land, and yet you can if you choose nip in and out of nearby villages, which is ideal, because for most people a luxury retreat means getting away from others, yet able to see people as and when you want.
The atmosphere at La Bandita is really a cross between an hotel, and someone's home, where you are staying with friends over a long weekend. This atmosphere really works so it may not be right if you are a recluse, and a luxury retreat means privacy as well. Part of the charm of La Bandita is the quality of the dinners that the chef produces, and they are eaten in a large open plan space in the garden, dinner party style. It can be nice to meet other guests in this way, and the quality of the wine certainly helps to make conversation flow. For the less sociable, then a private dining area is arranged or else a quick and easy drive to Pienza a beautiful Renaissance town with a lovely piazza, and good restaurants.
Exploring further afield from the luxury retreat that is La Bandita is no problem when you tire of the isolation, if you ever do, and Siena for example is but an hour away, and in truth there are at least half a dozen small medieval towns to explore within easy reach. The infinity pool and a glass of wine could well be enough instead.
La Bandita is a real Luxury Retreat in Tuscany, and perfect as part of a Romantic getaway weekend package.
For More Information on Italy go to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/European-Hotels/Italy/
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Gyandev Mccord |
2007-04-02 |
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Title: Recharge your Spiritual Batteries: How to Take a Personal Retreat
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Everyone occasionally feels a need for inner rejuvenation. Whether you want simply to reclaim your inner peace in the midst of a hectic life, or do some soul searching over your life directions, or go deeper into your spiritual life, going on retreat can be a perfect solution.
A true retreat is much more than a vacation – it can be a time of conscious, spiritual opening, of making an enjoyable effort to rise to an entirely new state of awareness. Here are a few tips for a retreat experience that’s both relaxing and spiritually rewarding.
Find the Right Environment
Seek out a place that is harmonious with your goals. The right environment can give you a tremendous boost – while the wrong one can leave you feeling flat, or even work against you. So do your homework and ask some questions, because even similar-seeming places can have quite different emphases.
Do you want a highly structured retreat, or do you want freedom to do what inspires you? Do you think you might need some guidance in customizing your retreat, or do you know exactly what you want to do? Choose a retreat center that offers what you seek.
If it’s spiritual depth you’re after, choose a place with an established spiritual tradition. Then you’ll be like a surfer who chooses a beach with the best waves, rather than trying somehow to create waves yourself.
Look also for a place that uplifts you with its beautiful natural surroundings, and with space to be alone whenever you wish it.
If you’re new to retreating, go to a retreat center that offers personal guidance. Optional, guided group activities are also a plus. Even experienced retreatants find that occasionally tapping into the magnetism of group activities can be invaluable for keeping their energy high and focused. For example, The Expanding Light Spiritual Retreat Center in California offers twice-daily sessions of yoga postures and meditation.
Prepare Yourself
Eat right and get rested before you go on retreat; otherwise, you may need the first day or two of your retreat just to pull yourself together. If you already engage in spiritual practices, get a head start by putting extra energy into them before departing. You’ll be glad you did.
As soon as you leave home, put all problems forcefully out of your mind. Preoccupation with problems can suffocate your retreat, while a worry-free retreat can actually help you solve problems more effectively by getting you into “solution consciousness” rather than “problem consciousness.”
Plan Variety in Your Retreat
Who wants to go on a retreat that seems like boot camp? Let it be fun, and plan a variety of activities. For example, you might use the mornings for your most interiorized efforts: prayer, meditation, journal writing, or spiritual reading. Then be more expansive in the afternoons: walk in nature, do something creative, or listen to uplifting music or lecture tapes. Reserve your evenings for lighter fare: a spiritual video, a humorous book, or simply relaxed, quality time with like-minded people. And always allow for the inspiration of the moment; don’t be locked into anyone’s agenda – even your own.
Keep Perspective
Your free time is precious, and it’s only natural to be concerned over whether you’re doing it “right.” But there’s no magic formula for a retreat. Just find a flow that works for you, and go with it. Remember, what you do is not nearly as important as whether your inspiration and “joy level” are high. You don’t have to pray and meditate all day long; few people can do that constructively, anyway. You don’t have to stay in silence or solitude, though many people find these beneficial. And don’t “over-retreat”: if you’re a first-timer, 2–4 days is plenty. Focus on enjoyment, rather than “should’s.”
Above All, Relax and Enjoy Yourself
Don’t put pressure on yourself to see immediate, dramatic results. When you go on retreat, you are planting a spiritual seed. If you water it by your own continuing spiritual efforts, in time it will surely sprout into the flower of peace and joy that you seek.
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