by Debra Bokur
Take a well-deserved break, and dash away for a women-only adventure, where you can learn a new skill, step out of your comfort zone, reawaken an old passion, or develop a new one.
1. 5th Annual Women in Balance Weekend Retreat, Nov. 7-9
Turtle Cove Spa at Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa, ArkansasJoin a group of thirty other women to explore mindful living in the peaceful setting of Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa on Lake Ouachita, close to Hot Springs. Facilitated by yoga teacher Holly Krepps and her husband, Chef Matt Krepps, the retreat includes lectures on health and wellness topics, meditation, mindful hiking, movement classes, yoga, lake activities, daily gifts, healthy foods, a $100 spa credit, and an interpretive tour to view the bald eagles that live along the lakeshore. Chef Matt will teach participants how to use seasonal foods and spices to create gourmet organic meals. For 2008 prices, contact the spa at (800) 832-2276, www.turtlecovespa.com
2. Sticks & Stones Women’s Adventure Package
Tyee Lake Resort & Wellness Centre, British ColumbiaLearn the secrets of fly-fishing deep within the Cariboo Chilcotin territory. The resort provides instruction and equipment, along with a guided, wild-crafting tour of the surrounding wilderness with resident herbalist Torey Lee. After learning to identify and sustainably gather edible and medicinal plants, Lee will teach you to prepare a custom herbal tea suited specifically for your needs. Back at the resort, Chef Thomas will prepare your fresh catch. The 3-night package is $799 (Canadian) per person, based on double occupancy, and includes all meals, a full day of guided fishing with instruction and equipment, full use of all the resort facilities, amenities and equipment, and two 90-minute massage treatments of your choice (per guest). (866) 989-9850, www.tyeelakeresort.com
3. Gutsy Women Travel’s 9-Day Costa Rican Traditions Tour
San Jose, Costa Rica
Yoga on the beach, anyone? This fabulous adventure includes that, plus a tour of the world’s largest butterfly garden, cooking classes, painting lessons, hikes through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, exploration of Arenal National Park’s stunning volcano landscape, and an introduction to the diverse bird, plant, and animal life in one of the most lush regions in the world. You’ll lodge at the Alta Hotel in the Alto De Las Palomas district, with awe-inspiring views of the Valley of the Sun. For 2008 dates and rates, call (866) 464-8879 or visit www.gutsywomentravel.com
4. Artista Creative Safaris for Women’s En Cera Encaustic Painting Safari
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CaliforniaSpend three days and three nights beside the sea learning the ancient art of painting with hot wax. The weekend retreat includes professional hands-on instruction in the Artista Studio, welcome reception, orientation, accommodations, daily breakfast, use of professional artists’ tools and supplies, daily afternoon yoga, and late night painting parties. Wine, beverages, and hors d’oeuvres are served throughout the day. Dates are May 12-15, July 21-24, Aug. 25-28, Sept. 22-25, and Oct. 20-23. Rates start at $1,275 per person for shared accommodations with two twin beds at a casual area hotel, and go up for private rooms or depending upon hotel choice. Massage treatments and spa therapies with local therapists are available at an additional cost. (831) 625-5748, www.artistacreative.com
5. Women’s Paddling Retreat at Madawaska Kanu Centre
Barry’s Bay, Ontario
June 30 through July 4, adventurous women will gather at Ontario’s Madawaska Kanu Centre to learn whitewater paddling and kayaking techniques from national and world champion kayakers. Besides getting a fabulous workout, participants will enjoy daily yoga, nutrition classes, and a lakeside wine and cheese tasting. Pamper yourself with a well-earned massage with the onsite therapist. Price for the week, including all meals and lodging, is $1,050 Canadian. If you prefer to camp near the lodge, the cost is $950 Canadian (all meals, instruction and a camping spot). (613) 756-3620, www.mkc.ca
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