You don't need to be Julia Roberts to Eat, Pray, Love!
Forget “I love you”. The three little words on every woman’s lips are “Eat, Pray, Love”. This emotional journey has struck a chord with millions of readers who turned the post-divorce memoir of spiritual and romantic discovery into a bestseller.
The Hollywood film starring Julia Roberts will inspire a generation of thirty something women to up-sticks and travel overseas in search of romantic and spiritual fulfilment while perfecting their yoga poses in the process. Find enlightenment in the temples of India, go in search of a medicine man in Bali and help teach English to those in need. It may inspire your own trip to the other side of the world or reveal a new path to peace and maybe a find a new man.
These days life is a long learning journey so do something different and take a volunteering trip overseas. We may not all have the luxury of a year so try a smaller itinerary for size.
Italy: Making the most of the voyage of discovery, take a flight via Rome to ensure a culinary experience. With a wealth of family-run establishments, and access to fresh ingredients grown just outside the city, Rome boasts an abundant number of places to drink and dine. The trick is head to where the locals go without breaking the bank.
Bali: Conjuring up thoughts of Bali, imagine picture postcard views with abundant rice terraces, pounding surf, ancient temples, ceremonies spilling onto the streets, captivating dance performances and swathes of beaches are some of the images that come to mind. Our partner projects on the island work with orphans and disabled individuals where on your spiritual journey your talents will be used through a variety of methods, including formal learning, conversation classes, games, songs and story-telling. Prices start from £599 per person for two weeks with the opportunity to extend to 8 weeks. This includes shared room accommodation in a homestay in Bedulu, all breakfasts, arrival airport pickup and an in-country orientation and 24hr emergency support. Flights are not included. There are one or two start dates each month throughout the year. For further information contact i-to-i: i-to-i.com
India: Strike a yoga pose in an Ashram then head for a real life experience in Mumbai.Teach English and Maths as well as various activities including playing, teaching, singing, drama, music and general assistance to underprivileged children. Make a difference in their lives by encouraging them to strive for bigger and better things. These children made famous by the 'Slumdog Millionaire' movie have not had the best start in life and you can get under the skin of the city and give them that little extra push to work towards getting out of poverty. You will have a great experience with some amazing children coupled with living in the major metropolitan city of Mumbai with its Bollywood films, great beaches, sights and shopping. Prices start from £899 for four weeks per person including shared accommodation in a guesthouse, all meals, arrival airport pickup and an in-country orientation and 24hr emergency support. Flights are not included. For further information visit: i-to-i.com
