Sunday 21 December 2014



Hi all,

Keep Calm, It's Nearly Christmas!!! That just about sums it up doesn't it! Can you believe that it's that time of the year already?  Where has the year gone?

I hope that everyone has had a successful 2014, and that all your plans and dreams for the last 12 months have become a reality.

This year has been a busy one for SoulFit adventures with lots of travel and the opportunity to meet some beautiful people from all over the world. An opera singer from Amsterdam, sassy sisters from Detroit, lovely Canadian ladies, a bunch of lawyers from London and Sydney, a bonny lass from Scotland and, who could forget the Newcastle gals!  These are just a few who have crossed my path and I am so grateful that you have all been part of the success of SoulFit adventures in 2014. From those that have joined me on a retreat, to those that have  supported me behind the scenes.  None of it would have happened without you. So a big heartfelt thank you from me.



NEW IN 2015

Next year sees SoulFit adventures unique yoga and cycling experiences expanding into France and, Cambodia - yes, it's very exciting! We are also launching a new luxury retreat in North-West Bali in addition to the existing eco retreat in East Bali. To say we are excited about these new adventures, is an understatement! A brief overview of these follows:-


Yoga & Cycling Retreat in Provence, France - 28 May to 4 June 2015

Can you picture yourself in Provence in the summertime, practicing yoga, cycling around vineyards and the most picturesque Provencal villages and towns? If  you can, then come with us and discover places steeped in history and nature, absorbing the sights,  scents, tastes and atmosphere of the area at handle bar level.  You will stay in our charming fortified Provencal demure dating back to the 17th century. Set in a private park of 3 hectares, where the colours of the olive trees and centuries old oaks blend with the perfumes of lavender and rosemary, creating a small Mediterranean paradise and the ideal location to find a little more of yourself! Be one of the first to experience SoulFit adventures yoga retreats and cycling holidays in France. Read more about this here.

Yoga & Cycling Retreat, Cambodia - 19 to 30 July 2015 & 9 to 20 November 2015















What a way to experience Cambodia! Days spent exploring the heart of this country at handlebar height, with evening or morning yoga sessions to put you at peace with your surrounds. We start from the spiritual and historical heart of Cambodia, the ancient Angkor city, we take in a great variety of landscapes as we pedal through the friendly, engaging communities. Beautiful flat terrain for the most part makes this a very achievable ride for anyone, with the indulgence of a boutique hotels to rest your head each night. You might come to see Angkor Wat, but you will leave with a much wider appreciation of all that is Cambodia and just maybe, reconnect with your deeper self.  Read more about this here.

Luxury Bali Yoga Retreat, North Bali - 1 to 7 September 2015















Join SoulFit adventures at Jeda Villa, Pemuteran, North Bali and experience 7 days and nights at an “authentic” and unique “off the beaten track” retreat. The retreat focuses on personal yoga practice with an emphasis on making the most of the stunning location. Accommodation is in 3 luxury villas, each surrounded by large tropical gardens, each with its own pool. The new purpose built yoga pavilion enjoys fabulous views of the mountain ranges and peaceful Balinese countryside. Enjoy yoga twice a day, snorkeling in a world class location, hiking Bali North West National Park, healthy vegetarian meals with an Ayurveda twist, all far away from the main crowded tourist areas. Soak up the serenity of traditional Balinese life and experience Bali as it was before mass tourism took hold!  Read more about this here.

The new holidays are on top of all the old favourites in ItalyLaos and Bali. Following is an outline of all countries and dates scheduled in 2015.  Click on the individual links for more information on each retreat or contactvirginia@soulfitadventures.com
Bali Yoga Retreats
Cambodia Yoga & Cycling Retreats
France Yoga & Cycling Retreats
Italy Yoga & Cycling Retreats
Laos Yoga & Cycling Retreat
To book any of the retreats or trips listed above click here to download a booking form.  Complete the booking form and return to virginia@soulfitadventures.com


NEW LOGO



You might have also noticed something different at the top of this blog. No? Well if you missed it, this is our brand, spanking new logo! We are in love with it and hope you love it too. If you are wondering, the inspiration behind the symbol is a bicycle wheel incorporated with the leaf and petal of a bodhi tree. Whilst the meaning behind the 'O' in soulfit is pretty obvious, I hope! You are getting a sneak peek at it now as it won't be officially be rolled out until January 2015.



TOP 5 TIPS TO HELP AVOID THE CHRISTMAS BULGE!

Do you love to get into the spirit of the festive season, but then curse yourself later on! If you do, then this is my gift to you this year. I thought I would share with you with my 5 tops tips to help you avoid the extra kilo or 2 that might creep on over the festive season...:-).  Let's face it, who doesn't sneek that extra piece of something..;-)!

1.  Go for a ride on a bike, a walk, a swim at least once a day. It doesn't really
     matter, just keep active. If it's winter where you are, then get to your local gym
     and move that booty!

2.  Do a yoga class - either in the convenience of your own home online, or at a studio.
3.  Have an alcohol/indulgence free day!
4.  Keep your food portions under control - easier said than done I know!
5.  Focus on socialising rather than eating and eat something healthy before going out.


If you do at least one thing on the list above, then you might just keep that extra kilo or 2 at bay. It is a time of celebration though, so enjoy..:-).



Finally, on a slightly more serious note, this time of the year can be a challenging time for some people.  Whilst it is a beautiful time of the year and brings great joy and happiness to some, it can be a lonely and sad time for others, especially given the recent sad incident in Sydney and in other places around the world this year. So whilst we celebrate, maybe we can also take a moment and remember those that might be hurting or less fortunate than us.  

That's all from me in 2014. Wishing you and your families a fabulous, festive and very Merry Christmas and, a safe and happy New Year.  Here's to 2015 and all the adventures that await.

Keep calm, Christmas is nearly here:-). 


All the very best.
Virginia

"I heard the bells on Christmas Day, their old, familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, goodwill to men!" Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Monday 1 December 2014

"We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us" Anon
 
I love this quote and feel that it sums up what SoulFit adventures holidays are all about, a chance to live life to the fullest, and to travel for the shear joy of life not just to get away from it. 
 
I have spent the last few of months since returning from the 3rd successful SoulFit adventures yoga and cycling holiday in Italy planning the SoulFit adventures calendar for 2015, and what a year it's shaping up to be!  If you happen to live in the Southern Hemisphere then spring is just around the corner and it's the perfect time for a spring clean and to start planning your next adventure.  If you live in the Northern Hemisphere and are at then end of summer, then it's also the perfect time to reassess your priorities.
 
Along with all the SoulFit adventure favourites in Italy, Bali and Laos,  I am so excited to be offering a new SoulFit adventure in 2015.  If you haven't heard already, SoulFit adventures is going to France, Provence to be exact!!  I spent a fabulous 6 days in Provence after the conclusion of the Italian retreat in June on a scouting tour and I can't wait for you to read all about it!  Think lavender, rosemary, vineyards, Provencal villages and of course it wouldn't be a SoulFit adventure without yoga and cycling...:-).  

So without further delay see following for the low down on what's happening in 2015!
28 May to 4 June 2015
Besse Sur Issole, Provence, France

 
SoulFit adventures is excited to offer for the very first time, our unique Yoga and Cycling holidays in France in 2015! Practising yoga in France in a picture postcard setting, cycling around vineyards and the most picturesque Provencal villages and towns, we discover places steeped in history and nature, absorbing the sights, scents, tastes and atmosphere of the country at handle bar level.  Staying in our own charming fortified Provencal demure dating back to the 17th century. Set in a private park of 3 hectares, where the colours of the olive trees and centuries old oaks blend with the perfumes of lavender and rosemary, creating a small Mediterranean paradise and the ideal location to find a little more of yourself.  Be one of the first to experience SoulFit adventures yoga vacations in France!  To book email virginia@soulfitadventures.com or to find out more, click here.
 


16 to 23 May 2015, 13 to 20 June 2015 & 28 October to 4 November 2015
Tuscany, Italy

 
By popular demand we will be running 3 departures in Italy in 2015 so if you haven't experience SoulFit adventures in Italy before, then here's your chance! SoulFit adventures Yoga & Cycling Holidays in Italy are exquisite blends of quality yoga practice and guided cycling in idyllic surrounds. This retreat will lead you on a journey of practising yoga under the Tuscan sun whilst cycling in and around the beautiful, medieval city of Lucca, in the heart of Tuscany. The retreats offer you a chance to reconnect with your self in a truly magical setting combining daily yoga, cycling, massages, delicious Tuscan cuisine using the best fresh local produce, wine, boutique luxury accommodation in our own fifteenth century country villa, and a stunning location.  These retreats will book out so get in early to secure you place!
 
To book email virginia@soulfitadventures.com or to find out more, click here.
 

 
23 to 31 March 2015 & 1 to 9 August 2015
Candidasa, Bali

 
SoulFit adventures Soul Soothing Bali yoga holidays are 8 days/8 nights of heaven set on the quiet beaches of Candidasa. The perfect place to practice yoga in Bali, nestled amongst the coconut trees with our own white sand beach, the perfect spot for swimming! You will enjoy a range of wonderful activities as the Bali retreats aren inspiring blend of quality yoga practice, snorkeling, hikings optional surfing and diving, fresh healthy meals, swimming, rustic boutique eco accommodation, massages, and lazy days!

To book email virginia@soulfitadventures.com or to find out more, click here.

 

October 2015 - 8 to 18 October 2015
Laos
 
The original and SoulFit adventures signature yoga and cycling holiday, Cycling for the Soul through Northern Laos is much more than meets the eye. Starting and finishing in Luang Prabang this one is for the slightly more adventurous. Cycling through the lush Northern Laos countryside whilst staying in some of Laos’ most unique hotels. Practicing yoga every day with your private yoga instructor, sampling excellent local cuisine, indulging in complimentary massages and so much more.  Indulge for your mind, body and soul in a mystical land and revitalise yourself during 11 days of activity and relaxation.

To book email virginia@soulfitadventures.com or to find out more, click here.
 


So there you have it.  Lots of choices and in the words of a previous guest, "Whether you’re a yogi, cyclist, foodie or adventure junkie, SoulFit Adventures retreats and holidays have something for you! I guarantee you’ll discover something new and perhaps you’ll even walk away a little bit transformed."  

To express your interest in any of the options listed above and to find out about earlybird specials, email me on virginia@soulfitadventures.com

Join me in 2015 and don't let life escape you...:-).


Virginia
SoulFit adventures

 
Great group dynamics, beautiful scenery, lovely villa, a trip of a lifetime! Thank you so much also for your fantastic yoga classes!!! Lastly, I must say to you that I thought you did a fantastic job, I loved every day, and I loved meeting all those amazing human beings (you included). I was quite aware that I was the oldest person in the group and that I am in a completely different chapter in my life than everyone else but thank God, it really didn’t matter. Another highlight was the massage by Isa ……… I doubt I’ll ever have another as good.  Jenny Kenny, Canada, June 2014