2024 and 2025 Write & Roam Journeys

Why Write & Roam?

The journey never ends, and the path changes constantly. Let me take you on a trip that will open your mind and astonish you with what shows up. Writing with a group is an act of healing, kindness, and generosity. Your words need to be written, shared, and heard by others. Write & Roam Retreats allow you to discover your stories (and you have them!) through guided meditation and prompts. You will write, read, listen, and learn what works, and what inspires and moves the reader through incredibly positive and supportive feedback. Our journeys take you to exotic places. Ignite your senses. Make memories that will last a lifetime. Create a community of new friends. See the world in a way you never have before. Let me take you. I’ve been leading trips and retreats since 2007. Truly, the journey never ends.

Click on the destinations above to go directly to the trip details.

Email me to sign up (susan@susanweisbohlen.com). I’d love to chat with you anytime!

Most trips are limited to 10 people.

Casa Om, Potomac, West Virginia, May 13-16, 2024

one space JUST opened! Email me susan@susanweisbohlen.com

Our next domestic retreat will be at Casa Om on the Potomac River. Meticulously designed with traditional hand-crafted furnishings from India, Casa Om is close to both Baltimore and Washington D.C., in Martinsburg, West Virginia, on over 60 acres with stunning views and wilderness. Surrounded by nature, hiking trails, caves, and all sorts of places to explore, spark your imagination, and find your muse, I’ve found the perfect spot for us to settle in, pull out the pen and notebook, and feel the magic of free writing.

Our mid-week retreat is limited to 10 people to ensure quality time to write, share feedback, and explore the inner and outer worlds we will dive into. No writing experience is necessary. The retreat is open to all – whether you haven't written in a notebook since grade school, or you are a published novelist! The method that we use is designed to encourage and support you right where you are. As of January 30, 2024, there are only TWO spaces left on this retreat.

So why should you come?

Because even if you don’t know it, or don’t believe it, you have a story to tell. And others need to hear it. No matter what stage of life you are in, you have had unique experiences and writing allows you to discover your voice, your expressions, and your story-telling abilities. That story – your story – has been trying to be told and now is the time to honor that. Trauma, joy, grief, elation, pain, once it is down on the page, the healing and understanding can begin. And the thrill of hearing yourself reading your own words aloud is indescribable!

Being in the company of others who want to understand themselves and the world through the written word is a way of creating community, which we so desperately need right now. Come to this retreat to see that you are not alone, your journeys and adventures overlap with others. You are the hero of your own story, and you might be the hero in someone else's.

Come for some quiet time. Contemplation. Reflection. Stillness. Be in nature, Be alone and with others. Do this for you.       

What's Included?  

After arrival, we will gather to set some loose intentions for our time together. No need for goals or setting unattainable standards. Our time together will be easy-going yet creative. By letting the mind wander a bit, what needs to be expressed will find a way. Our days will include meditation, movement, writing prompts, writing together, sharing, and offering only positive, encouraging feedback. You will also have free time to wander and write on your own. We do not “workshop” your writing, there is no criticism, negative feedback, judgment, or comparisons. You learn what works by the feedback you receive. It’s kind of magical and you will feel tingly and elated!

Details:

Write & Roam Casa Om is a 3-night and 4-day retreat. Check-in is at 3 pm on Monday, May 13. Check out at noon on Thursday, May 16. The address is 681 Carlyle Rd, Martinsburg, WV 25404. Casa Om is about an hour from D.C. and 1.5 hours from Baltimore. If you are flying in, you can fly to BWI, Dulles or Reagan National and rent a car.

Meals are all included, gourmet vegetarian (vegan available), including a light breakfast, lunch and dinner. Coffee, tea, and beverages are also provided.

Please note there is no smoking, no drugs, no alcohol, no meat, no fish, and no pets.

A swimming pool and hot tub are included in the price. Ice baths and massages are available for an additional fee.

Rooms and Costs:

A nonrefundable $500 deposit will hold your place. Pay in full by February 28 to receive early-bird pricing. If you are coming alone and would like to be paired with a roommate let me know I will try to make that happen. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be responsible for the single room rate.

Payments can be made to:

Venmo: susan-weis-bohlen (last four of mobile are 2096)

PayPal to susanweisbohlen@gmail.com using the send friends money option

Zelle: 4109792096

Checks: Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, Md 21136

Read through the room offerings and email me with your choice. First come, first served. susan@susanweisbohlen.com, or text me at 410-979-2096.

Rooms # 1 & 2 (main level) and 9 & 10 (lower level):

#1 one bed BOOKED; 1 twin bed OPEN. Room # 2 BOOKED; Room 9 BOOKED

These rooms have 2 twin beds each, and a private bathroom.  Perfect for 2 friends sharing

Early-bird: $999 each/regular cost: $1199 each

Single Occupancy: $1199/regular cost: $1299 

Room #3 BOOKED

Features a king-size bed, a sleep sofa, a private bathroom, and a lovely view of the Potomac. Main level.

Early-bird shared $1099 each/regular $1199 each

Early-bird single: $1299/regular $1399

Room # 4 BOOKED

Features a queen bed, private bathroom, and a view of the courtyard and forest.  Second floor.

Early-bird: $1299 Single/regular $1399

Room #5  AVAILABLE

Features a king-size bed, river view, a couch that can also be used as a bed, and a private bathroom. Second floor.

Early-bird shared $1099 each/regular $1199 each

Early-bird single: $1299/regular $1399

Room #6: BOOKED

Features a Queen bed with a private bath and a courtyard view. Second level.

Room #7  BOOKED

Features a King bed and private bath and a beautiful river view. Second level.

Early-bird shared $1099 each/regular $1199 each

Early-bird single: $1299/regular $1399

Room # 8 BOOKED

Features a king-size bed, a couch that can also be used as a bed, a private bathroom, and a private balcony. This room can take 4 additional people at the shared rate. Second level.

Early-bird shared $1099 each/regular $1199 each

Early-bird single: $1299/regular $1399

Testimonials:

“I. LOVE. SUSAN'S. WRITING. CLASS and the Gateless method.  This class allowed me to discover my writer.   If you've ever had an inkling to write, then this is where you can discover your voice.  It's encouraging and supportive, inviting your writer to come out and explore. Susan provides a safe environment to express yourself whether it's a list of words, phrases, or sentences.”  MR

“My Write-and-Roam trip to Iceland under Susan's enthusiastic leadership was just what the doctor ordered! Great generative prompts, helpful crafts tips, wonderful writing and feedback, amazing sights, and delicious meals in simple but elegant lodging amongst a group of warm, open, intuitive women (and one man). Our Icelandic guide Heida was terrific too. Highly recommend.” DR

“My favorite parts of the trip were having regular writing practice to look forward to, and the restaurants were enjoyable. The trip was well led and planned and well explained, and what was planned was clear. There was enough flexibility and light-heartedness to make it easy and fun. The writing time really helped to break the ice and to get acquainted with each other.” CM

Write & Roam visits the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan, September 7-17, 2024.

Reserve your space now. Limited to 10 participants. 7 spaces open. Email susan@susanweisbohlen.com to join. A $850 nonrefundable deposit will hold your space. Travel dates are September 5 - September 18.

Bhutan is a hidden gem high in the Himalayan Mountains. What secrets does it hold for you?

• Peace and quiet are pervasive, allowing you to think, listen and create from a place of stillness, rather than chaos and distraction.

• Theta brainwaves will activate, creating flow, stress reduction, creativity, and contentment. These benefits will remain accessible long after the retreat is over. The writing tools, crafts, and techniques are based on the Gateless Method.

• Resistance will melt away. The inner critic who shouts all day long will be quieted and diminished. Let’s leave that critic behind on a valley or river.

• Nature will envelop you, filling you with awe, integrating your connectedness to everything.

• Leave worry and weariness behind. Immerse yourself in the present moment. Listen to wild rivers run, visit Buddhist stupas on the side of the road, and hear the sonorous sounds of thousands of prayer flags flapping in the wind, sending blessings across the world.

• Astonishing architecture in bold colors and designs, just like Shangri-la, will stoke your creativity and fill your senses.

• Plenty of places to shed what doesn’t serve you, and pick up some new vibes!

• Links to all the sites we will visit are in blue and bolded in the daily schedule below.

• I’m happy to have a call with you to talk about the trip! Email me at susan@susanweisbohlen.com. I will also schedule Zoom calls in February and March.

Most tours of Bhutan begin in the capital city Thimpu and venture East. But I’m going to take you West toward Chine, to the hidden paradise of Haa. This serene, peaceful valley was once known as the “hidden-land rice valley” and was closed to tourism until a few years ago. Quaint guest houses have been built with local farm-to-table food, traditional architecture, and endless nature. It’s remote, isolated, and the perfect place to begin our journey. You will have no choice but to leave the world behind, and immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture, acclimate to the altitude, and allow the adventure to begin. But don’t worry, East we will go! Take a look below at the detailed itinerary and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

Why Bhutan? My first trip there was in 2006, on a whim, to join a friend who was traveling in Nepal and India. Suffice it to say that there were so few tourists there, that when I returned with a group in 2016, a hotel manager remembered me - and my name! I fell in love with the uniqueness of this place. Wild white rivers rush around huge boulders, Monks scurry along to prayers and study, Nuns meditate, strangers bow and you feel like you have reached the end of the world — in a good way! On my first trip, my friend Sue and I sat in a shack on the edge of a town, the only place with an internet connection, and tried to send emails home. Sometimes it worked, sometimes not. That may be the last time I was so disconnected from the world.

Now the internet, and wifi are pervasive, but that feeling that you are far far away is still there. And you are!

This journey is designed to get the most out of the trip but at a more relaxed pace. We will spend multiple nights at most hotels and guest houses so you won’t be packing and unpacking all the time. You can settle in and allow me and our guide to take you on walks, hikes, visits to monasteries, and festivals. Soak in hot mineral water. See the monkeys in the trees. Watch the flora and fauna pass by. Fly over the most spectacular mountain ranges. And write. Most days we will have 2 hours of writing salon, which you will be guided into through meditation and prompts. When you allow the mind to rest and reset, the theta waves take over and creativity flows. With no distractions, no goals, and no pressure, you will find your voice. And you will hear the voices of others. In the Himalayas.

Remember this is a high-altitude trip. If you are concerned please check with your health care provider for any issues that might arise when travelling over 13,000 feet. There are medications like acetazolamide, which can help you to acclimate.

Our trip is 11 days and 10 nights in Bhutan.

COST

Early bird paid in full by May 1, 2024: $6189. Cost if paid after May 1 or with a payment plan: $6489. The final payment is due by July 1, 2024.

An $850 partially refundable deposit will hold your place. Credit Card payments include a 4% processing fee. You can pay via Venmo to susan-weis-bohlen (last for of cell are 2096); Zelle: 4109792096; PayPal using Send Friends Money option to susanweisbohlen@gmail.com; or check to Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, Md 21136.

Single supplement Bhutan: $55 per night ($555)

Price includes a Bhutanese travel Visa; dedicated guide and driver; 10 nights hotels; 3 meals a day; water; entrance and festival fees; all travel within the country including the Bumthang-Paro flight; exceptional writing salons; personal one-on-one session with Susan for an Ayurvedic or writing consultation; extraordinary sights; a once-in-a-lifetime experience; new friends!

Not included: Flights to Bhutan; additional hotel nights before or after scheduled program dates; Nepal, Thai, or Indian visa depending on where you are flying through; tips for guide and driver; alcoholic drinks; espresso drinks; snacks; laundry services; mineral hot baths and spa services.

Most people will need to depart the US on September 5 to arrive in Paro, Bhutan on Sept. 7. Departure from Bhutan is on Sept. 17. I will tell you the recommended flights when you sign up. The cost ranges from $1000 round trip economy to $4000 business roundtrip. Flights from connecting cities to Bhutan vary in price. If traveling from Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia, please make arrangements to meet us in Bhutan by 10:30 am on September 7 or we will make arrangements to join the group at your expense. Travel insurance is highly recommended. We use https://www.travelinsured.com/agency/.

Trip Details:

Saturday, Sept. 7: HAA: The flight into Paro begins our journey to the spectacular beauty of Bhutan. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks give way to the lush green Paro Valley as you land. Hint: Those seated on the left side of the flight will have a magnificent view of the snow-covered peaks of Mt. Everest. The first gift from Bhutan will be the cool, clean fresh air as you step out of the plane. After clearing customs and visa control we will meet our guide Ugeen Tseewan, who escorted my group in 2016. We will have lunch in Paro.

After lunch we will drive over the Chelela pass, one of the highest points (3,780 m/12401 f) of drivable road in Bhutan. You will see incredible views of the highest mountains of Bhutan and the scenery is magnificent. Then onto the Forbidden Valley of Haa (which only opened to tourism in 2002), which borders Tibet. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel Risum Resort

Sunday, Sept. 8: Haa. We will continue sightseeing with a visit to the Dzong of Haa and the temples of Haap Chhundu (guardian deity of the valley). In the late afternoon, we will settle in for our first writing session at the hotel, Risum Resort.

 Monday, Sept. 9: Haa. In the morning drive a short distance to hike (45 minutes) to the Juneydrak hermitage from Katsho village. This Cliffside retreat also houses the right footprint of Machig Labdron, a female Tibetan tantric practitioner whose practice of Chod, a spiritual practice, has heavily influenced all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Picnic lunch and refreshments will be served and we will learn more about the mystical meditation practice. After being inspired by the sights and sounds, we will write in the afternoon together. Dinner and overnight at the hotel, Rigsum Resort.

Tuesday, Sept.10: We will gather for writing this morning after breakfast and then drive to the capital city Thimphu where we can visit the market, do some shopping, and visit a cafe. This offers us an insider view into life in the city. We’ll see the “Buddha Droendma” one of the biggest Buddha statues in South East Asia, which I saw being constructed in 2016! From here the view of Thimphu valley is magnificent. If time permits visit the School of Arts and Crafts, where children are taught the traditional art of wood craft and painting. After lunch at a local place, we will depart to Punakha, an ancient capital of Bhutan, and visit the National Memorial Chorten (a huge Stupa ) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned the Kingdom from 1952-1972. Leaving Thimphu the road climbs steeply through a forest of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichen high up near Dochula Pass (3,050 m), and see panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges. After stopping for tea and the view, we descend along a series of hairpin bends to the fertile valley of Punakha and then drive to visit the iconic Punakha Dzong, located between the rivers of the Mo (Female) Chu and Pho (Male) Chu. Dinner and overnight at hotel, Bhutanic Resort/Rivervalley.

 Wednesday, Sept.11: Today is Festival Day! We will drive to the Wangdue Tsechu Festival. Along the way, we will visit the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong dramatically located on the spur of a hill at the confluence of the roaring and roiling Tsang Chu and Dang Chu rivers. At the festival, we will see religious dances and folk songs where the Bhutanese people come in their best attire and rejoice at the festival with picnic lunches, as we stroll around the festivities. The festival is known to bring enlightenment for onlookers while also acting as ritual purification to ward off the evils! After the festival drive back to our hotel for dinner at Bhutanic Resort/Rivervalley

Thursday, Sept. 12: Travel through Gangtey and Trongsa to Bumthang, one of my favorite places in Bhutan. We will see the Gangtey Valley and have a short nature hike (45 minutes) and continue on to Bumthang. This evening you can book an herbal mineral bath and relax in the gorgeous scenery at the Rinchhenling Resort as we settle in for three nights here.

Friday, Sept. 13: After breakfast and a writing session, we will venture out to Bumthang Valley, one of the most spectacular valleys in Bhutan and also the heartland of Buddhism. Many great teachers meditated here and left in their wake sacred grounds. The Guru and his lineage of Tertons (treasure finders) have led to the sprouting of many temples in the valley. We will visit Kurje  Lhakhang (where the Guru Rinpoche subdued a local demon and left his body imprinted on a rock) and Tamshing Monastery (one of the oldest monastic schools built by Terton Pema Lingpa). We also visit Jambay Lhakhang built in the 7th century, and Jakar Dzong, the seat of the district administration. If time permits visit the Swiss farm where you can buy cheese and local fruit products. Dinner and overnight at the hotel, Rinchenling Lodge 

Saturday, Sept. 14: Today we will spend the day at the Lodge, after a morning writing salon. You can use this time for spa services, to relax, take a solo hike, and soak up the beauty. You can also schedule a one-hour session with me to talk about your writing or Ayurveda! Overnight at Rinchenling Resort.

Sunday, Sept. 15: After breakfast, we will fly to Paro and check into our hotel. In the late afternoon, we will have a writing salon. Dinner and overnight at Metta Resort.

Monday, Sept. 16: This morning we will hike to the truly magnificent Tiger Nest Monastery (4 miles round trip, elevation: 3,120 meters/10,232 feet). As we will be thoroughly acclimated to the altitude, the climb will be easy! No worries if it feels challenging as there is a cafe about one and a half hours up and I’m happy to rest there with you. At the top, you will see the stunning view of the monastery, where Guru Padmasambhava landed on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. After the visit, we will head back to the hotel to rest and pack and have one last session together. You can also take an optional walk through Paro’s main shopping district. Dinner and overnight at the hotel, Metta Resort.

Tuesday, Sept. 17: On our last morning in Bhutan, we will soak in the beauty as we drive to Paro and fly home.

I am only taking TEN people on this trip! To reserve your space you can send me a nonrefundable deposit or $850 to Venmo: susan-weis-bohlen (last four of cell are 2096); Zelle: 4109792096; Paypal using the send friends money option to susanweisbohlen@gmail.com; or send a check to Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136. If you would like to use a credit card, a 4% fee will be added.

About Susan:

After the extraordinary experience of running my bookstore, Breathe Books, for 10 years, I closed the shop in 2014 to concentrate on my Ayurvedic practice. Little did I know that publishers who once asked me to sell their books would now be asking me to write them! I wrote three books on Ayurveda between 2018 and 2023. That incredible adventure led me deeper into creative writing and I began taking classes, workshops, and retreats. I started with a deep dive into a retreat with Suzanne Kingsbury, founder of the Gateless Writing. My interest in this type of writing (memoir, fiction, non-fiction) was not only sparked – it was set on fire!  During COVID I took so many online classes, including with iconic writing teacher and author Natalie Goldberg, best-selling author Laura Munson, and Diablo Writers Workshop, learning craft and structure.

I have spent hundreds of hours learning the art of creative writing and teaching it as well. It’s almost as if I had a mini-MFA during COVID, and I continue every day to hone the craft and I love teaching others. In April 2022 I led my first writing retreat in West Virginia, which was followed by retreats in Frederick and locally in the Baltimore area. In October 2023, I led two groups in Iceland. It was an extraordinary experience and I can’t wait to show you why! (see testimonials below). I have been leading international trips (England, Peru, Bhutan, and India) since 2007.

Additionally, if you are interested in publishing I am happy to talk to you about my path and how you can make it happen. From the query letter to the proposal, finding an agent, going the traditional publisher route, or checking out the incredible new options for self-publishing, I can help you find your way. My books are with Simon & Schuster and Quarto Group, published in the US and foreign language editions. I’ve had great success and I can’t wait to share with you everything I have learned.

 Iceland October 20-26, 2024

The land of fire and ice will ignite your creativity, and imagination, and reset your mind

It’s impossible for me to describe to you the beauty of Iceland adequately — but I’ll try! It fills the senses in the most surprising ways. The silence of this vast, sparsely populated country is powerful. The lack of noise allows you to experience nature at a level few do. On this trip you will hear geysers bursting from the earth, waterfalls pounding the rocks, and bird songs you’ve never heard. Nature breaks through the icy landscape, surprising you at every turn with rainbows, rock formations, wild horses, and glaciers.

This beautiful land invites you to go within to explore your inner landscape. We will take the time to do just that by gathering daily to meditate, write to prompts, and share our work. As your words unfold, a new community is created. I’ve seen such love, support, and care come from these gatherings and trips. Be a part of it. And let it become a part of you.

I also love traveling to Iceland because it’s easy. From where I live (Baltimore) there is a direct flight for about $300 roundtrip, every day. We leave in the early evening and arrive five hours later, early in the morning in Keflavik. After a short bus ride to the capital city, get some rest and let the magic begin. Iceland is pure - the water is crystal clear, you can eat all the food without worry, and you can even sit on the toilets! The buildings, hot tubs, and lagoons are heated with geothermal waters. It may be chilly outside, but it’s refreshing, the cleanest air, the bluest skies, the snow-capped mountains, the northern lights at night.

All you need to do is put down a partially refundable deposit to hold your place. My last Icelandic retreat sold out so fast I opened up a second week. This time I won’t be able to add on another week, so please, act quickly and get your spot. $850 will hold your place. The balance is due on May 31. Payment plans can be arranged.

Here’s a good reason to come this year - the northern lights! https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/25/travel/iceland-northern-lights-aurora.html?unlocked_article_code=1.f00.ppiA.fFrFZX5eujnA&smid=url-share

Want to talk about it? Let’s set up a call. Email me: susan@susanweisbohlen.com. I’d love to tell you more.

Iceland Write & Roam 2024 Itinerary

We depart BWI (or other cities) on Saturday, October 19, and arrive in Keflavik on the morning of Sunday, October 20. 

Day 1 Sunday, October 20: 

Upon arrival at 5 am, a private bus will take us to our hotel in Reykjavík where we can rest for a few hours before venturing out to see a bit of the city. A big treat awaits us at the world-famous Sandholt Bakery. After a bite and a coffee, our guide, driver, and my friend Heiða Björk Sturludótti willmeet us and take us to the incredible Sky Lagoon. We will “experience true Icelandic bathing culture at their oceanside geothermal Lagoon.” Yes, that’s right, oceanside. Over the wall of the lagoon is the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy the view while immersed in 100-degree water, perhaps a mimosa in hand and take advantage of the rituals of cold plunges, scrubs, a sauna and more. I chose this for our first day as I want you to wash away whatever you don’t need for this trip, and soak in the minerals, the warmth and beauty that will last a lifetime.

Later we will make our way to our lovely boutique hotel, a former schoolhouse, next to a magnificent church. The Skalholt Hotel will be our home for the next 6 nights, in the heart of the Golden Circle. We will have a private room with a fireplace for our writing sessions, and group meals by innovative Chef Bjarki Sol, who uses locally grown and sourced foods.

We will check in, settle in our rooms, enjoy a meal, and get ready for our adventure.

Day 2 Monday, Oct. 21

After breakfast will take advantage of the daylight and visit two spectacular natural wonders. At Geysir Hot Springs we will see boiling mud pits, and wild, exploding geysers. The Strokkur geyser lets loose every few minutes. A hush falls over the waiting groups in anticipation of the shooting hot water. Delightful cheers erupt along with the Geysir, which spouts water 100 ft into the air.

Then we will visit Gulfoss, an astonishingly huge waterfall, powerful and gorgeous. We will walk around her and see the prisms of light and rainbows as the water flows. If it’s cold enough, we can see some of the falls frozen in place. After our time in the natural world, we will go shopping! A big, beautiful store and cafe nearby offer Icelandic sweaters, socks, hats, gloves and more.

Lunch will be in town at my favorite coffee shop, Kaffi Krus. After a bite we can walk around the lovely town of Selfoss, visit a local supermarket, a bookstore, some cute shops and really take in life in Iceland.

After a rest back at the hotel, we’ll have dinner, and our first writing session of the trip. You will already be bursting at the seams with thoughts, feelings and images to transfer to the page.

Before bed visit the hot tubs just outside the hotel doors! A beautiful way to end the day, and see the northern lights.

Day 3 Tuesday, Oct. 22

This morning after breakfast we will continue the writing salon the night before and create new stories, essays, or even poems, to share. After lunch at the hotel, we’ll visit Thingvellir National Park, and see the Earth’s crust and the tectonic plates of the Atlantic ridge that runs through the country, rushing streams, and the famous Icelandic trout. An ancient graveyard reveals stories from the past, next to a church and sacred circle. My husband Larry, a master dowser, will lead us in an energy-divining exercise at this powerful site.

After working up an appetite, we’ll take a short drive to the amazing Minilik Ethiopian Restaurant for dinner. Yes, Ethiopian in Iceland! We’ll meet the owner and his wife the chef, and enjoy a fabulous meal.

Day 4 Wednesday, Oct. 23:

After an early breakfast, we’ll head to the mystical, black beach town of Vík í Mýrdal, the southern-most seafront village in Iceland where we will learn about the folklore of trolls, elves, ghosts, and fairies, that are very much a part of the Icelandic lore and the natural formations. The eerie, surreal Netflix series Katla was filmed here.

On the way, we’ll take a stroll behind the waterfall Seljalandsfoss, a thrilling experience.

In Vik, we will explore the Reynisfjara Sea Beach walk, visit the black beach and the hexagonal basalt columns in the cliffs, take a cave walk, and see the famous Three Trolls standing guard over the sea.

We will enjoy a delicious meal at the Restaurant Suður-Vík and visit a cool exhibit at the Lava museum.

A little shopping at the fabulous Icewear megastore, and we’ll drive back to the hotel for dinner and a writing salon.

Northern lights and hot tubs await us. Did I mention that wine and beer and local liquors are available at the hotel? They are!

Day 4 Thursday, Oct. 24:  

Breakfast and our writing salon this morning will be followed by a visit to Fridheimar restaurant, a geothermal tomato greenhouse, and an Icelandic horse farm. How about that for unique? And the food is simply delicious, fresh off the vine, farm-to-table. We’ll visit with the horses and learn more about their way of life.

Need more hot geothermal healing waters in your life? Yes! We’ll visit the Fontana Spa after lunch. A local lagoon on a vast lake. You’ll enjoy dips into several pools at different temperatures, as well as dry heat and wet saunas and you can even take a plunge in the cold lake. There is a Holy Pond on site that we’ll visit and dowse the energy lines with Larry.

Dinner will be at the cozy Lindin Laugarvatn restaurant just across the way from the spa.

In the evening we can search for the northern lights and enjoy another soak in the hot tubs if you are craving more warm water.

Day 5 Friday, Oct. 25: 

Breakfast together, writing together, sharing our words, and roaming continue. Our journey today takes us deep, into the Kerið's Crater. Approximately 6,500 years old, it’s deep and wide and easily walkable. We’ll go around the rim and venture down to the depths to explore. The caldera is approximately 180 ft deep, 560 ft wide, and 890 ft across.

A short drive will take us to the sunny Thrastalundur restaurant, next to the rushing waters of the Sog river, with a view of the mountains.

After lunch, we will visit the beautiful Solheimar, Iceland’s only ecovillage! About 100 people live here, some with special needs, who work and live together. Sólheimar (Sunworlds) was founded in 1930 by a Sesselja Sigmundsdóttir (1902-1974). She was an innovator who was interested in caring for people with mental challenges as well as organic horticulture for health reasons. Here we will find artwork, home goods, candles, soaps and cosmetics made by the residents of Solheimar. And there is a cafe for an after lunch coffee and a treat in the sun-filled seating area. We’ll arrive back at the hotel with time for you to rest and pack (sigh) and get together for our last dinner at Skalholt.

Day 6 Saturday, October 26

We’ll enjoy breakfast and some time writing before leaving for the airport. Along the way we’ll visit the striking Viking Museum, a wall of glass facing the sea, housing a replica of the first Viking ship. We can have lunch here and continue to the airport, bidding farewell to this magnificent country.

Pricing:

Double room, sharing: $4995 each

Single room, $5395

A partially refundable deposit of $850 will hold your place. Payment by credit card please add 4%. Payment methods: Venmo: susan-weis-bohlen (last for of cell are 2096; Zelle: 4109792096; check to Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136

Pricing includes all travel within Iceland, 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 4 dinners; entrance fees, Fontana Spa and Sky Lagoon experiences, guide and driver and tips (always optional if you want to offer more), writing salons, 1 private session with Susan for either Ayurveda or writing advice.

Not included: airfare to Iceland; additional spa services; espresso drinks; alcoholic drinks; laundry services; excursions outside of the itinerary; tips for hotel staff; 6 lunches; 2 dinners (count on $30-$70 a meal without alcohol)

NOTE: A single room for the 5-hour rest after our flight in Reykjavik may not be available. Currently, we have double rooms held and are worked into the price. If you require a single room for this rest period, let me know ASAP and I will try and get you a room! Reykjavik is extremely popular and hotel rooms must be booked far in advance.

Review flight options on Play Air. Plan to arrive on the morning of Sunday, October 20, and depart the afternoon of Saturday, October 26.

A packing list will be sent upon sign-up. The weather in late October has an average low of 37°F (about 3°C) and highs of 45°F (7°C). It can be rainy, but last year we didn’t see a drop! The sun rises around 8:40 am and sets at 6:30 pm, giving us plenty of daylight to roam around the country.

Questions? Call me! 410-979-2096

I can’t wait to write and roam with you!

Sunswept South India —> West to East February 2025

I love to venture on the road less traveled. After visiting spectacular sites in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, we take a flight and a ferry to a place you have probably never heard of — the Andaman Islands. Less than 5000 foreign tourists a year travel to these paradisical sparsely populated islands. I have been fascinated by them since I learned of them on our many trips to India. Located between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, there are 200 Islands, many inhabited by indigenous people and tribes. Those islands in the chain are off-limits to tourists, so the gorgeous, pristine beaches and jungles of Havelock Island will be our base. On Havelock we will settle into our resort and process all the magnificence we have seen as we crossed from Kerala to Tamil Nadu, and flew over the Bay of Bengal. Our days will be spent in writing salons, sea sports, beach walks, sea swims, snorkeling, jungle treks, bird watching and eating the freshest seafood and south Indian fare, Andaman-style. Spa services will also be available.

This is a one-of-a-kind tour of India. In my 12 or so visits there, I have learned to navigate the land and sea to curate experiences that will delight you and not deplete you. My trusted travel agency, Royal Indian Voyages, has been working with me for years, treating us to the finest trips and with utmost care. We will be cared for the entire journey by my friends Unni Nair and Sanjeev Joseph, the finest people.

India can be a tough place to travel, but I think I’ve got it figured out! Be aware, though, that India is full of surprises. This trip is for people who are adventurous, spontaneous and flexible. We might see things that disturb us. We might be traveling for longer than anticipated between cities. We might have some hot days. We might encounter wildlife like monkeys and peacocks. But we will be in INDIA! I will prepare you as best I can. Just remain open to all.

If you would like to come early or stay later to explore the north, east or west, such as the Taj Mahal, Varanasi, Rishikesh, Amritsar, Goa or Rajasthan, I can make those arrangements for you. 

Monday, Feb. 1: Fly to India
Flights will be announced soon. From IAD - Dulles, Washington DC to COK - Kochin, India.

Sunday, Feb. 2: Kochi
Welcome to India! My dear friend and our guide Sanjeev Joseph will meet us at the airport and get us settled into our hotel immediately for a rest. Later we will take a walk in the town and on the beach, perhaps buy some gauzy, silky, colorful Indian clothes to wear on the trip. After dinner at the hotel, we will gather to talk about the tour and then get a good night’s sleep at our historical Dutch-inspired boutique hotel.

Monday, Feb. 3: Kochi
After a sumptuous Indian breakfast, we will venture into town, which is called Kochi or Cochin. We’ll visit Jew Town and the famous Sephardic Paradesi Synagogue founded by Portuguese Jews in 1568. We’ll also visit the Dutch Palace, the Chinese Fishing nets, the Church of St. Francis and the Tomb of the explorer Vasco da Gama. This surprising history of South India will come to life by visiting these vibrant sites — an India that maybe you didn’t know existed. Kerala is unlike any other area in India, with a majority Christian population, (and Communist!) as opposed to Hindu and Muslim in other areas. And the shopping is fantastic! Lots of cool, unique places selling antiques, jewelry, scarves, spices, teas, soaps and more. Malayalam is the state language of Kerala.

We will have a Welcome Dinner at a beach restaurant to celebrate our arrival and the start of our adventure. Overnight at the Dutch Manor.

Tuesday, Feb. 4: Kochi to Coimbatore
After breakfast, we will depart by surface to Coimbatore, arriving at the magnificent Isha Yoga Centre in the afternoon. Here we will explore the sacred site created by Sadhguru, a teacher popular in the East and West, known for his flowing white beard and views on living a life of awareness, resilience and grace. The meditation cave is silent, save for the chanting of Om or whatever moves you. This incredible experience, even if you are not a meditator, will stay with you for a long time. The beautiful grounds hold the giant sculpture of Shiva, as well as swimming pools for men and women, small temples and a yoga studio. You can partake in as much as you want, or just wander the area and take in the energy. We will stay in the cosmopolitan town of Coimbatore (there is a great shopping mall here!) for dinner and overnight.

Wednesday, Feb. 5: Flight from Coimbatore to Chennai, and by surface to Pondicherry
This morning we will fly to Chennai, (formerly called Madras) located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. Known as the Gateway to South India, it is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. We will have lunch at the delightful Amethyst Cafe and explore their gardens and shops. Here’s the menu just cause it looks SOOO good!

Later depart by surface to Pondicherry. Upon arrival check-in at the LE PONDY BEACH RESORT

Thursday, Feb. 6: Pondicherry (also known as Puducherry)
After breakfast, we’ll begin our tour of Pondicherry, called the French Riviera of the East. This area was under French colonialization which is evidenced in its unique architecture dating back to 1674. This beautiful city passed through many regimes including the Dutch, the Portuguese, and the British. Spirituality was not lost in the colonization. The spiritual leaders Sri Aurobindo, an Indian sage, and The Mother, a French Jew, founded the utopian city of Auroville in 1968, a place for peace and progressive harmony for all to realize human unity. We will tour the many impressive buildings and sanctuaries, and see the businesses and arts they have established.

Pondicherry is surrounded by the sea, where we can walk in the village and the feel a part of the local life. It’s interesting to note that the major languages spoken in the areas are Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu. Overnight at Le Pondy Beach Resort.

Friday, Feb. 7: Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram
After breakfast, depart by surface Mahabalipuram, visiting Dakshinachitra Museum, on the way, deepening our understanding of the many cultures in the region. This living-history exhibit features art, architecture, lifestyles, crafts and the performing arts of South India. We will arrive in the breathtakingly beautiful city of Mahabalipuram, a quiet, sea-side resort with time to enjoy the beach and relax before dinner. We’ll spend two nights here, at the Radisson Blu Resort, Temple Bay Mahabalipuram

Saturday, Feb. 8: Mahabalipuram
After breakfast, we’ll dive deep into ancient Hindu culture, with a sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site has 40 monuments and Hindu temples, built in the 7th and 8th centuries. The seafront Shore Temple comprises 3 ornate granite shrines. Krishna’s Butter Ball is a massive boulder balanced on a small hill near the Ganesha Ratha stone temple with a unique and glorious 7th-century Shore Temple, and some of the most beautiful rock-cut caves in the world. We’ll see the Krishna, Varaha and the magnificent caves at Mahishasura Mardhini Mandapas beside the famous stone bas-relief, Arjuna’s Penance. In the afternoon, take some time to enjoy the resort, have spa services or just stroll on the beach at the RADISSON BLU

Sunday, Feb. 9: Fly to Port Blair, Andaman Islands
Arrival at Port Blair at 1 pm. After checking into our hotel for one night (we’ll take a ferry to Havelock Island in the morning) we’ll see some historically significant sites such as the massive Cellular Jail complex, built in 1906, now a place of pride in India’s freedom struggle from the British. Overnight at the SILVER SAND SENTINEL.

Monday Feb. 10 - Friday, Feb. 14: Havelock Islands and surroundings
Monday morning after an early breakfast we’ll catch the ferry to Havelock Island, sailing over the gorgeous Bay of Bengal, and check into our beach-front resort for the next four nights. During our retreat here, we’ll have writing salons most mornings after our delicious breakfasts. The afternoons will be full of choices from snorkeling, to beach walks, swimming, bird watching and soaking up the local culture. We’ll take an evening jungle walk as the rainforest comes alive to the most diverse array or wildlife what can only be seen in this part of the world. Our home for the rest of the trip is the SILVER SAND BEACH RESORT

Optional locations to visit include: Elephanta Island, former elephant camp; Radha Nagar Beach Islands with fine white sand, turquoise and blue waters; Kalapathar Beach which is a stunning long stretch of white sand and its unique lining of big black rocks beside the serene blue sea. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Havelock.

Friday, Feb. 14: Ferry from Havelock to Port Blair and flight to Chennai
After an early breakfast will leave paradise behind, and board the ferry to catch our flight from Port Blair to Chennai. We will have time to see the magnificent temples at Parthasarathy at Mylapore. In the evening we will have a farewell Valentine’s Dinner! We’ll dress in our finest Indian clothes to celebrate. After dinner we will have time to change clothes and prepare for our flights back to the US.

Saturday, Feb. 15: Depart Chennai to US

Remember you can extend your trip or take these sweet memories home with you, and celebrate your truly unique experiences.

Pricing: $6249 each shared room; single room add $1599

Price includes 13 hotel nights; guide and driver; tips for guide and driver (you are welcome to offer additional tips as well); all breakfasts; all dinners; water; entrance fees; domestic flights (economy, can upgrade if available); ferry boat; writing salons.

Price does not include international flights; Indian Visa; beverages other than water; lunches; most dinners; espresso drinks; alcoholic drinks; laundry services; spa services; optional activities in the Andaman Islands; single supplement; flight upgrades.

I will advise you on international flights.

Options for Andaman/Havelock:
Bird Watching - (Duration 2 hours) 6:00 am - 7:30 am – US$ 33 per person. A birdwatcher’s paradise with 300+ bird species out of which 29 are endemic to the island. Explore the surrounding jungle and beach with our resident naturalist and discover the various species that call Havelock their home.

Inter Tidal Walk - (Duration 2 hours) Depending on the tides – US$ 33 per person. Get up-close and personal with the diverse marine life that gets stuck in shallow rock outcrops. See and learn about these fascinating organisms with our resident naturalist

Nature Walk - (Duration 2 hours) US$ 33 per person. Explore pristine rainforest patches learning about the indigenous flora/fauna.

WATER SPORTS AT ELEPHANTA ISLAND:

·       Glass Bottom Ride US$ 20 per person (15 Minutes)

·       Banana Ride US$ 13 per person

·       Sofa Ride US$ 13 per person

·       Deep Snorkeling US$ 27 per person (30 Minutes)

·       Jet Sky US$ 20 per person

·       Para Sailing US$ 60 per person (10-15 min)

·       Dolphin Ride US$ 60 per person (30 min)

·       Submarine US$ 60 per person (30 min)

A partially-refundable deposit of $950 will hold your place. Payment can be made via venmo: susan-weis-bohlen (last 4 of cell are 2096); zelle to 4109792096; check to Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, Md 21136; or credit card with an additional 4% fee.

Let’s talk about it! Email me at susan@susanweisbohlen.com.