Trips & Retreats
Upcoming Trips
Click one of these links to learn more about the trips:
BAJA MEXICO – Majestic Grey Whales – Whale Watching – Feb 9 ~ 14th, 2011
TEPOZTLÁN, MEXICO – Sacred Valley of Magic & Mysticism – February 14-19th, 2011
This is what is being said about my trips and retreats:
“Susan created an atmosphere that enabled me to experience heightened states of awareness that I had only heard about. Now I can sense and appreciate subtle energies that have previously been outside my ability to perceive. My life is fuller and richer because of this experience.” B.F. Kailua, HI
“Having you as our guidance coordinator and instructor was a very positive experience. I believe you offer the opportunity and environment for self discovery, self enlightenment, and expanded awareness and enhancement. In retrospect I realize how much I got from each exercise and I know feel more balanced and internally content.” L.C., NC
“Susan lets you learn on your own, but she is there for you when you need her. She teaches through love not fear. She guides you to make personal choices that nurture and heal your spirit. It is rare to meet someone as spiritually centered and emotionally grounded as Susan; I recommend to anyone who wishes for peace and happiness to join any of Susan’s programs. You will have to work, but she makes the process enjoyable and fun.” NJ
Susan’s spiritual retreats are wonderful opportunities to reconnect with yourself, relax, recharge, and return to your life refreshed with a totally new perspective. Susan is a master at creating magical experiences, interweaving them with safe, loving moments followed by profound personal insights. Her retreats are an experience like none other and no two are alike.
A retreat with Susan is designed to be an oasis in our busy lives, a doorway to a new way of experiencing life. These retreats are an opportunity to move beyond our limited thinking and begin to see the infinite choices life holds.
Upcoming Trips
Click one of these links to learn more about the trips:
BAJA MEXICO – Majestic Grey Whales – Whale Watching – Feb 9-14th, 2011
TEPOZTLÁN, MEXICO – Sacred Valley of Magic & Mysticism – February 14-19th, 2011
BAJA MEXICO – Majestic Grey Whales – Whale Watching
Feb 9-14th, 2011
Grey Whales are amazing creatures living 50-60 years, growing to over 50 feet, and weighing around 36 tons! It is with great respect and concern for their conservation and protection that we embark on this whale watching journey of the heart. Each year in October the Grey Whales make a 2-3 month journey of 5,000– 6,800 miles (8,000–11,000 km) from the Bering Sea down to the western coast of Baja Mexico to give birth to their calves (perfect for whale watching). By late March they are ready to make their way back north with their young children – well fed for the long journey north.
On this spiritual journey with author Susan Gregg, we will get close-up and personal with the Grey Whales, sending them energy and love. Just for a moment, imagine touching and connecting to one of these majestic mammals – running your hand over her bumpy back, looking deeply into her eye as she rolls over in the waters. There is something amazingly magical and transformational that happens when you look into the eyes of one of these creatures. There’s no description for the feeling of meeting a Grey Whale and her babies up-close – witnessing this beauty is a special experience. Magdalena Bay Habitat We’ll be staying on Magdalena Bay in comfortable walk-in tents along the beach, with special showers, and yummy Mexican food. Magdalena Bay is ranked by the World Wildlife Fund as one of the nine most important coastal habitats in all of Mexico. Each evening our local guide will chat about the whales and wildlife of the area giving us a deeper appreciation of this delicate ecologic balance. Water activities feature whale watching from skiffs and paddling kayaks through tangled mangrove estuaries rich with wildlife. On land, you’ll have fun walking on – or tumbling down – towering sand dunes, along miles of unspoiled beaches. Itinerary for the Baja Whale Watching Journey Day 1 February 9th (-/-/-) La Paz, Mexico Depart home for La Paz, Mexico today! If you leave home early you can get here early and have time to walk around town and explore. We’ll be meeting for dinner tonight so you’ll want to make sure you arrive so you can join us. Simply take a taxi to the Hotel Marina (~$12.00 USD). If you flight arrives late that is fine – make sure you’re ready to depart at 8:00 am tomorrow morning for our transport to Magdalena Bay! Day 2 February 10th (b/l/d) Magdalena Bay This morning we rise and shine for our 8:00 am transport to Mag Bay. When we arrive we will have lunch and then get in our boats for our first whale encounter! We’ll be staying overnight at our tented camp on the beach for the next 3 nights. Each day will be spent connecting with the Gray Whales and nature. Using the stars, the sand and the ocean, you’ll to shift your awareness and deeply transform the way you connect with mother earth and your life. Our intent is for you to come away from this experience with a connection to your limitlessness spirit that is elemental in nature. The whales will help you see the world through new eyes, softened by love and expanded by the wisdom of the ages. After all, how can your life remain the same once you experience the presence of eternity? Day 3-4 February 11-12th (b/l/d) Magdalena Bay Today and tomorrow we’ll be out on the boats twice a day to meet the whales. There will be time for our group to come together and share and for other activities too – like kayaking and exploring the dunes. Day 5 February 13th (b/l/-) Depart Mag Bay for La Paz Today is our last morning whale watching. After lunch we will we leave for La Paz. A charming town, it will be fun to get dinner out and walk along the boardwalk – known as the “Malecon.” Recently renovated and embellished with beautiful statues, it’s an ideal location to watch the sunsets that cast incredible colors over La Paz. It’s also where you will find most of the curio shops, restaurants and cafes. One of the most complete arts and craft shops “La Casa del Artesano Sud-Californiano” – is located just opposite the cabanas section of Los Arcos. The gardens of Velasco in the historical center, with its cathedral “Nuestra Senora de La Paz” are also worth the visit, and sometimes you’ll find people gathered in the gardens playing the famous game of “loteria.” The Anthropology Museum of Baja California (corner of 5 de Mayo and Altamirano streets), has a wide display of old maps, clothing, tools and palm- fiber crafts. Open everyday from 9 am to 6 pm. Overnight at the Hotel Marina. |
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Day 6 February 14th (b/-/-) La Paz – Home!
You can depart any time this morning knowing we must check-out by noon. Those of you flying on with Susan to Tepoztlan, Mexico – you will be all leaving on the same flight together this morning. We leave the Baja today renewed and with a change of heart. New friends have been made and old friendships made stronger. We say our final goodbyes and share hugs and kisses and take all we have learned home with us to create a happier and more beautiful life.
Important Information for Baja
On our journey we’ll enjoy whale watching from skiffs, and paddling kayaks through tangled mangrove estuaries rich with wildlife. On land, we’ll have fun walking on – or tumbling down – beautiful sand dunes, along miles of unspoiled beaches. In between whale watching adventures, you’ll have time for walks along the beach or hikes in the dunes. You can also go kayaking on a guided tour of the mangroves or other permitted paddling areas. You may opt to go bird watching, or just enjoy some “down time” as you relax with a book from the library.
What’s Included:
- Most meals are included in this itinerary as marked on the itinerary in brackets next to the date. (5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners)
- All spiritual teachings are included.
- Two nights double occupancy at the Hotel Marina in La Paz.
- Three nights and 4 days at our tented camp at Magdalena Bay.
- Two whale excursions each day using motorized skiffs, each lasting up to three hours.
- Our experienced naturalist guides and cook.
- Round-trip transport from La Paz to Magdalena Bay. ($120.00 USD value)
- Baja nature conservation fee. ($30.00 value)
- All spiritual teachings are included.
- All tips for our bus drivers and baggage handlers (one bag per person) are included
- Tips for the staff are included ($100.00 USD value)
- All ground transportation; unless you do not arrive with the group and separate transport is needed.
What’s Not-Included:
- Your round trip air flight to and from La Paz, Baja, Mexico is not included
- Other non-included items would be: phone calls, laundering services and souvenir shopping!
- Tips for the maids at our hotel in La Paz (we recommend $1.00/day for the maids) are not-included
Regarding Flights: You will need to fly into La Paz on February 9th and take a taxi to the Hotel Marina (~ $12.00 USD). If you arrive early to La Paz you can enjoy the town and relax. We’ll have an informal dinner together and be ready for our transport at 8:00am on February 10th to Magdalena Bay. Going home – you can make your flight anytime on February 14th from La Paz with the understanding that we will have to leave our hotel rooms at noon. However, if you are joining us in Tepoztlán, Mexico, we’ll all be taking the same early morning flight to Mexico City so make sure you confirm with us before booking your ticket.
Baja Whale Watching Trip Costs
For our Baja journey: $2199.00 USD double occupancy
You don’t have to have a roommate in mind – we’re happy to match you with one! FYI: Only double occupancy is available at our tented camp. If you need a single occupancy at the Hotel Marina in La Paz we can let you know what the additional cost is.
Also, if you are joining us for both of Susan’s trips you will receive a $100.00 USD discount!
This trip is going to fill fast so we suggest placing your deposit as soon as possible! A deposit of $500.00 USD is preferred by: December 1st, 2010. Final payment is due: January 1st, 2011.
TEPOZTLÁN, MEXICO – Sacred Valley of Magic & Mysticism
February 14-19th, 2011
| Join author Susan Gregg for a truly transformational spiritual journey to the ancient home of Quetzalcoatl – The Feathered Serpent God. Tepoztlán is about 1,700 meters (5,500 ft) above sea level and at a distance of some 18 kilometers from Cuernavaca. Tepoztlán has become a meeting ground for different religions and practices such as New Age, Hare Krishna, traditional local shamanic healing practices, and Catholicism. It’s also well known for being a spiritual center where energy and mysticism converge. Because of this, the energy here is perfect to support our personal work and transformation. Pyramids & Pulque! Our home base in Tepoztlán is the very romantic Posada De Tepozteco. From here we’ll visit the sacred sites of the Tepozteco and Xochicalco Pyramids. To the north of Tepoztlán, is Tepozteco mountain and on this mountain is the pyramid of the same name. The pyramid is named after Tepoztecatl, the principal god of Pulque (an alcoholic beverage made from the sap of the agave) and important ceremonial drink. A Sacred Pilgrimage Tepozteco Pyramid has always been a sacred place with pilgrims traveling from as far as Chiapas and Guatemala. The pyramid can only be reached by a long and narrow flight of steps located on the south side of the temple. Tepozteco is about a five hour round-trip climb from town, but is a powerful pilgrimage and hike. (You climb around 1,300 feet in 1.2 miles!) But once you reach the summit, you will be glad you did since the views from the top are simply breathtaking. Culture, Caves & Ruins In addition we’ll have the opportunity to visit the Cavernas de Cacahamilpa which contain fascinating natural formations and have wonderful energy. Taking advantage of the cultural events: exploring the local market, enjoying the town’s incredible gourmet food, and dining at one of the oldest Haciendas in Mexico – are highlights of this magical spiritual journey! Itinerary for Tepoztlán, Mexico Day 1 (-/-/-) Posada del Tepozteco Meet the group at the Mexico City Airport at 4:00 pm. We will travel south of the city to Tepoztlán and settle in at the Posada del Tepozteco hotel and have a wonderful dinner, enjoy the town and relax. Perhaps you will try some Huitlacoche soup tonight (corn smut) it’s actually wonderful – dark, rich and densely flavored. Or maybe you’ll try the Tlayuditas de Chapulines? Tlayuditas are the local form of tostadas and chapulines are roasted grasshoppers (an important source of protein in pre-Hispanic times)! No, they do not taste like chicken, but they are salty and crunchy Day 2-5 (B/-/-) Tepozteco and Xochicalco pyramids & the Cavernas de Cacahamilpa We spend the next four days exploring and moving through the Tepozteco and Xochicalco pyramids and the Cavernas de Cacahamilpa – using the energy of this region to accelerate your own personal journey toward your wholeness, holiness and your connection to the divinity that is you. There will be a group gathering each day, free time to explore the area, times of quiet, journaling and processing – as well as laughter, fun, friendship and great food. Two days will be spent in process work at the pyramids (it will take us all day to climb up to the Tepozteco pyramid) and a half day at the Cavernas. We will do powerful ceremonies in the caves to connect with the great Earth Mother and the trip will culminate with a slow walk of release to the top of the mountain and Tepozteco pyramid – a place of sacred pilgrimage where you will let go of your limitations and reclaim your limitless spiritual essence. This will be an experience like no other. There is no definite schedule for these days because at Tepoztlán we work with the energy present in the moment! We’ll also visit the beautiful San Gabriel de Las Palmas hacienda for lunch – this magnificent hacienda dates back to the year 1529 when Hernán Cortés ordered its construction using the Spanish technique of vaulted arches and semi-circular walls. |
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One event we will not miss is the local market which is a tradition in the area and which has wonderful crafts and foods to experience. We will also have time to experience some of the beautiful colonial churches in town, especially the Temple and Ex-Convent de La Natividad.
Day 6 (B/-/-) Home!
We leave for the airport today renewed and with a change of heart. New friends have been made and old friendships made stronger. We look forward to the challenge of bringing this new dream home with us!
Important Information for Tepoztlán, Mexico
What’s Included:
- All 5 breakfasts are included in this itinerary. But if you eat lunch and dinner at any of the local restaurants, you may need to pay in cash so plan accordingly!
- 5 nights at the Posada del Tepozteco
- All spiritual teachings and ceremonies admissions to the ruins
- Admission to the Xochicalco pyramids & Cavernas de Cacahamilpas
- All tips for our bus drivers, baggage handlers (one bag per person) and guide are included. (An $80.00 value)
- All ground transportation; unless you do not arrive with the group and separate transport is needed.
What’s Not-Included:
- Your round trip air flight to and from Mexico City is not included
- Lunch at the gorgeous historic hacienda San Gabriel de Las Palmas is not included
- Other non-included items would be: phone calls, laundering services and souvenir shopping!
- Tips for the maids (we recommend $1.00 USD per person per day for the maids)
There’s the possibility of participating in a traditional Temazcal sweat lodge if you are interested.
Regarding flights: We suggest you arrive at the Mexico City airport on February 14th no later than 4:00pm to take the group transport to the hotel. If you miss the van you will need to pay for a taxi to the hotel. On February 19th we suggest that you schedule your departure any time after 1:00pm. If you are coming from Susan Gregg’s trip to the Baja February 9th-14th – you will be flying from La Paz to Mexico City all on the same flight around noon and will transport together to the hotel in a separate van.
Tepoztlán, Mexico Trip Costs
Staying at the lovely Posada del Tepozteco:
Standard Room: single occupancy $2045.00 USD (only two rooms available)
Standard Room: double occupancy per person $1665.00 USD (only two rooms available)
Special Standard Room: double occupancy per person $1695.00 USD (slightly larger room)
Fun Room: quadruple occupancy per person $1675.00 USD (only one room available)
Junior Suite: double occupancy per person $1815.00 USD (larger room with a terrace)
You don’t have to have a roommate in mind – we’re happy to match you up with one! FYI: They do have suites at Posada del Tepozteco and you are welcome to ask what the additional costs would be for an upgraded room.
Also, if you are joining us for both of Susan’s trips you will receive a $100.00 USD discount!
This trip is going to fill fast so we suggest placing your deposit as soon as possible. A deposit of $500.00 USD is preferred by: December 1st, 2010. Final payment is due: January 1st, 2011.
