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Join me for a yoga retreat in the amazing land of israel

Embark on a transformative journey to the cherished land often referred to as the 'land of milk and honey'. Dive deep into a soul-nourishing yoga retreat with me where every sunrise and sunset in Yafo becomes a canvas for our yoga sessions, right from the deck of our intimate boutique hotel.

Our boutique hotel is Yafo’s hidden gem! Boasting spacious, beautifully-appointed rooms with breathtaking sea vistas, its location is impeccable, nestled in the core of the ancient city. The hotel will be, of course, privatised for us. Encircled by mosques, synagogues and churches within a Jewish district of Yafo, our host presents six opulent suites housed in a heritage building dating back to 1654. Each suite boasts a distinct, eclectic design, ensuring every stay offers a novel experience.

To ensure an authentic experience, I've collaborated with local guides, hosts, chefs, photographers, and other community members. So, to immerse ourselves in the cultural essence, we'll partake in a special Shabbat dinner, delving into Jewish traditions with delicious food and wine at the private home of our host, the award-winning Israeli chef Nir Zuk.

For the surfing enthusiasts, there's an opportunity to catch the waves at the Yafo surf school, the ones willing to try paddle yoga or aerial yoga… it will be possible to pack this in your additional activities too!

As we traverse through Tel Aviv by bike or foot we'll discover its charm, its savouring mouth-watering street delicacies and we will be indulging in the city's delicious dining and fun dancing spots. The inviting beaches await our presence, the historic aura of Yafo beckons, and a must-visit tour in the iconic city of Jerusalem is on schedule.

Israel, a gem nestled along the Mediterranean coast of the Middle East, is not only rich in history and religious landmarks but also a beacon of technological advancements. This land, abundant in delectable, healthful cuisine and teeming with nature's wonders, awaits our exploration.

For those yearning for an extended adventure, I'm presenting an additional segment that includes a serene night by the Dead Sea, coupled with a daring hike to the imposing fortress of Masada. Imagine practicing yoga at the pinnacle of this fortress, surrounded by vastness… Truly unique.

Highlights

Yaffo From May 1st TO May 6th 2024

Day trip in Jerusalem May 5th

Optional Dead sea/Massada trip from 6th to 7th of May

Itinerary

Subject to change but here’s the general idea!

Day 1 - Wed May 1st

Welcome to the vibrant heartbeat of Tel Aviv and Yafo ! Check in, discover your room for the week and the surrounding area. Depending on your arrival time you may join for a little tour of Yafo. We'll start our journey with a post flight nurturing yoga session on our deck, and then celebrate the promising week ahead with sunset beverages at our rooftop lounge. Learn some basic Hebrew to go along during our stay- especially the word "l’chaim!". We will head for our first evening out in a lovely restaurant in Yafo facing the sea.

Day 2 - Thur May 2nd

Start the day with a 2h yoga session at sunrise before heading to our first brunch at Goldman by the beach. Think water mouthing Israeli salads, dips, eggs and authentic food. After that it will be time to hit Tel Aviv’s famed stretch of Mediterranean sand to digest and take a dip in the water. Some of you may want to branch out to visit museums and/or take optional activities. I will share a custom google map of places and activities you may want to consider.

Our first sunset yin yoga class will be around 6pm on our deck before heading out for one of the most popular evening of the week in Tel Aviv’s nightlife.

Day 3 - Friday May 3rd… it’s soon Shabbat…
Hopefully, we'll manage to get up early for our gentle yoga session at dawn, keeping in mind Tel Aviv's lively nightlife.

After a lovely brunch in a local Arabic restaurant of Jaffa where you may want to consider a Shakshuka it will be time to visit one of my cherished TLV locales: the iconic Carmel Market and the bustling Nachalat Binyamin street fair. Both these places transform into vibrant street celebrations every Friday!

As the sun dips, we'll gather again for a calming yoga session on our deck before heading for Shabbat dinner. We will be a short walk away from our host and award-winning local celebrity chef and host Nir for a special night where you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the traditions of this special day while having amazing food and wine.

Afterward, you’ll have the option to stay in and relax or hit the dance floor and let loose. The night is yours!

Day 4 - Saturday May 4th

We will rise and move on our deck facing the sea to celebrate another beautiful day ahead. After our yoga session we will brunch in a vegan friendly caffe called Alma in the heart of Yafo where you will indulge yourself with a delicious brunch and more ‘kar’ lattes. It will be also time to ensure you make the most of your stay in Tel Aviv by ticking the last items of your bucket list and we will guide as best as possible and set you free for that.

Tel Aviv offers many things to do. Take a walk on the iconic Rothschild boulevard with its lined up Bauhaus architecture, cafes, and trees or on the bustling Tel Aviv Port (Namal) with its wide wooden boardwalks… You can also rent a bike or a ‘Krokinette” to zoom around. The weekend beach scene in Tel Aviv is also something not to miss!

Day 5 - Sunday May 5th

After our morning practice and another delish brunch, we'll be off to Jerusalem! Just a short 35-minute train ride away. Our knowledgeable local guide, Claude, awaits to guide us through the enchanting maze of Jerusalem's Old City. We'll traverse its four historic quarters: Muslim, Christian, Armenian, and Jewish. Along our journey, we'll be captivated by iconic landmarks such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Western Wall, the Via Dolorosa—believed to be Jesus's path to crucifixion—and the ancient Roman Cardo, once the heart of the city's commerce. This visit is an opportunity to delve deep into the rich tapestry of history and culture of Jerusalem.

After that we will consider heading on to Machane Yehuda food market to get a feel of the buzzing city and street food before returning to Tel Aviv.

Day 5 - Monday May 6th

After our final practice, closing circle, and a delightful brunch—with perhaps a final stroll through Yafo—it will be time for some of us to bid farewell at midday.

Looking to conclude your journey on an exhilarating note? Consider an excursion to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth! Join us in a minivan as we journey to the scenic Kibbutz of Ein Gedi. This desert oasis boasts a magnificent botanical garden, home to a myriad of global plant species. You'll also have the chance to encounter the region's majestic wild goat, the Ibex. Once there, pamper yourself at the spa, taking the opportunity to experience their pool infused with Dead Sea minerals.

We'll dine at the hotel bar, known for its delectable offerings. While an early rest is recommended, those keen on nocturnal adventures can opt for a 4x4 night tour of the desert, offering a mesmerising view of the starry skies.

Optional Day 6 - Tuesday May 7th

Awake early and journey to the majestic fortress of Masada. Accompanied by a local expert, we'll ascend the path leading to its summit. Atop, we'll lay out our mats, immersing ourselves in a revitalizing yoga session that emphasizes stretching and grounding, all while savoring the present moment in this unique setting. Following our practice, our guide will recount the fascinating history of Masada. Our adventures will surely kindle an appetite, so we'll head to a local eatery for some nourishment before making our way to Ein Bokek by the Dead Sea.

Imagine floating effortlessly, indulging in therapeutic mud baths, and, for those interested, experiencing watsu therapy to tap into your profound theta state. This session is led by Saul, a renowned local yoga instructor and Dead Sea therapy expert.

After this enriching day, you can choose to unwind in Ein Gedi, explore more of Israel, or venture to the breathtaking landscapes of Egypt or Jordan.

Your journey awaits!

MAY 1ST-6TH PRICING PER ROOM

Message me for inquiries. A DEPOSIT OF £500 IS REQUIRED UPON BOOKING. Balance is due by Feb 1st.

Early Bird, pay in full upon booking to save £100. unitil 15 OCT.

Account Name: Sarah Drai / Sort Code : 20-47-34 / Ac #: 03175693 

IBAN : GB28BUKB 204734 03175693

Contact: sarah.drai@gmail.com

Terms and Conditions

*Cancelation policy : Any Cancelation within 48h of booking will be fully refunded until Feb 1st 2024. Any cancelation post 48h of booking and up to Feb 1st 2024 will loose the deposit. Post Feb 1st 2024, any voluntary cancelation will lose the deposit + full amount. If your room can be replaced by a candidate on the waiting list, you will loose the deposit only. If the retreat needs to be rescheduled or cancelled due to Covid or “force majeure”, you will receive a full refund. Strictly no refund will be issued under any condition unless mentioned above.

*Liability Waiver : In joining this retreat you also formally agree to the terms outlined here.