Beyond OM with April Puciata

Bordeira, Portugal

CR
Chirriposa Retreats
  • Email address verified
45 reviews
Oct 6 - 14, 2018
Group size: 1 - 14
Beyond OM with April Puciata
Bordeira, Portugal

Chirriposa Retreats
  • Email address verified
45 reviews

Oct 6 - 14, 2018
Group size: 1 - 14

About this trip

Join April for this incredible opportunity to explore and celebrate in Portugal, spending (2) nights in Lisbon and (6) nights in the Algarve. Think daily yoga and meditation, delicious meals and excursions to beautiful beaches and charming white-washed fishing villages on the Atlantic Ocean. Those who love to surf, or would like to learn, will have the opportunity to do so! This retreat is organized with optional practices, creative exercises, and meditations to slow us down and connect with our true nature, manifesting our intuitive and creative energies.

APRIL PUCIATA - Beyond OM

April Puciata is an ERYT 500, RPYT, Reiki Master and a Senior Ishta teacher. The creator and founder of Beyond OM, April has travelled all over the world to lead retreats, trainings and workshops You can go to her website aprilyoga.com to check out her bio and email her at april@aprilyoga.com to register for Portugal.


Cultivated by April, Beyond OM® is a multidimensional approach to the space we touch after we make the shapes. After the chanting, pranayama, and all techniques we use to still the business of the mind, it is the indescribable silence we leave at the end of the OM.  It is the place where the healing happens. 


Beyond OM® is about being open to the unlimited possibilities, the unbound potential that exists within each of us. 

MONTE VELHO ECO RETREAT Costa Vicentina

Once a rural tourism center, Monte Velho has grown into its true essence and purpose as an Eco Retreat Center. The Ocean, the trees and hills, the animals and humans, one vision that puts us in the very center of the continuous beautiful and mighty universal cycles. A space to appreciate and bring to life the natural beauty of the environment and a chance to have a real and empowering experience, our connection to our roots and a way to discover our true nature.


Ecological Philosophy and Practice for Sustainability
Our intention is to live in balance and harmony, with mother earth/pachamama , and be as self sufficient as we can. We wish to pass on our experience of this to our guests so that we can all benefit from the reconection to nature. It´s a daily learning process and the changes we make in our lifestyle come gradually. We are always open to learning from others experience and ideas for more sustainable ways to live are always welcome, so please share your knowledge with us too.

Eco Energy
The main house is powered with solar energy batteries, and an eolic windmill.
For the hot water system, we also use the sun, and a wood boiler, that helps to heat all the buildings. The wood used on the boiler is from our own forest, and is harvested in a sustainable way.

Sustainability
Our project here started with reforestation, with umbrella pine tress, cork trees, and strawberry trees that were planted in 1997. The land had been abandoned and wild for more then 20 years, it was infested by acacias and eucalyptus trees, the soil was very poor with lots of stones and little water. A lake to collect the rainwater was our first step to revitalize and revitalise the land. Without water we knew that nothing was possible….
While we were digging the lake with machines, we used the clay, and argile, to build the main walls of the buildings. After 2 winters the lake was almost full of water and the wildlife began return to the land. We could hear the birds singing again, frogs croaking, and rabbits, foxes and wild boars and other wildlife were happy to share the land with us. Now we use the water from the lake for our permaculture garden during the summer months, and for the horses.

Permaculture Garden
Our vegetable garden is growing every season , and  we are planting more fruit trees  in the same area. Permaculture gives us the chance to grow different vegetables all year round and supply our kitchen with delicious food.

Pine Forest
Our 34 hectares are mostly cover with umbrella pine trees, which produce delicious pine nuts. The trees are now 15 years old, and the last years we have had a good harvests, during the winter time , collecting up to 3.000 kilos of pine cones! Pruning the trees every year gives us lots of wood to use on our boiler, to give us hot water and heating

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE - Lisbon

Your flight should arrive into Lisbon ANYTIME on Saturday 06 October and depart from Lisbon ANYTIME on Sunday 14 October. You will make your own arrangements for transport from the airport to the group hotel in the center of Lisbon. A taxi will take about 20 minutes and will cost around €15.


HOTEL IN LISBON: 

Name: MY STORY HOTEL TEJO

Address: Rua Condes do Monsanto nº2, 1100-159 Lisbon

Tel: +351 218 866 182 

E-mail: guestservice@mystoryhotels.com

http://www.mystoryhotels.com/mystorytejo/en/home 


NOTE. The ‘My Story Hotel Tejo’ is a new hotel, which is part of a hotel chain that has 3 different hotels in Lisbon. Please be sure to go to the correct hotel at the above address. Unfortunately, there is still no official website for this particular hotel, just the other 2 older hotels (Ouro and Rossio).


Our hotel is located in Downtown Lisbon in the 'Baixa' district, between 'Praca da Figueira' and 'Castelo de Sao Jorge'. The hotel is within walking distance of all the main sights and restaurants of Lisbon.  


You will be free to explore Lisbon, on the first day and following morning, by yourselves, but highly recommend that you do so with a friend or in small groups. The centre of Lisbon is very compact and tourist friendly, although there are many steep hills and steps, so be prepared and wear sensible shoes.


NB. Please be extra careful of your valuables and belongings in Lisbon, especially on the public transport, as there are a lot of pickpockets around!


Below is a list of suggested things to do and places to visit in Lisbon, but we would highly recommend taking one of the many guided ‘Tuk Tuk Tours’ around town, which will show you the main sights and give you an orientation of the city.


All meals in Lisbon, other than breakfast at the hotel, are not included, until we reach the retreat centre in the Algarve. Therefore you should take advantage of sampling and tasting the local cuisine. Definitely try the famous ‘Pastis Nata’ (custard tarts) for which Lisbon is famous. My favourite place to eat, is at the ‘Time Out Market’ (see below), where you can find something for everyone under the one roof.


We  will depart the following morning, after breakfast (included), at 11:00am from the lobby, on a 3 hour scenic drive to our retreat center in the Algarve, grabbing a light lunch along the way (not included).  


We will leave 'Monte Velho', after breakfast, at 10.00am the following Saturday and head back to Lisbon, where we  will spend another night in our hotel and be ready to depart for home the following day.


RETREAT CENTRE IN ALGARVE:"

Name: Monte Velho

Address: Carrapateira 8670-230 Aljezur - Portugal 

Tel: +351 282 973 207

Email: info@montevelhoecoretreats.com

Web: https://www.montevelhoecoretreats.com

USEFUL INFORMATION & RECOMMENDATIONS

PASSPORTS & TRAVEL INSURANCE: 

At this point, we would like to remind you to check that your passports are valid for travel and have at least 3 months left on them from time of departure for Europe. We would also like to remind you to purchase a travel insurance, which will cover you in case of any cancellation, loss or theft of belongings and medical emergency. This can either be done through your credit card company, airline or travel agent. You can also purchase a travel insurance here during checkout. Please note that Chirriposa will be there to assist you, but will not be responsible for any cancellation fees, lost or stollen items or medical expenses incurred on the trip. You will also be required to sign a ‘Liability Waiver’ before we leave the hotel in Lisbon.


WEATHER (October):

Lisbon and Algarve -  Octobers in the Algarve region are usually warm, with an average daytime maximum temperature of 23°C (75°F) at the capital of the Algarve, Faro, and an average overnight minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F).


WHAT TO WEAR

Pack some light summer clothes and also don’t forget your swimsuits for the lake and the beach. Also remember to pack a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

However, you should be prepared for cooler days and nights and perhaps even some rain and wind.

For those of you who want to go hiking, cycling or horseback riding, we suggest you bring suitable clothing and footwear. A pair of running shoes would be highly recommended. If you intend to go surfing, then you will rent a wet suit and equipment, but may wish to wear a rash guard underneath.


WATER

In Lisbon, we cannot vouch for the quality of the tap water and, therefore, we recommend buying bottled water for drinking. However, at the retreat center, the water in the house comes directly from a natural spring and passes through a filter and is excellent drinking quality. It makes sense to bring your own water bottle and fill it for your daily use. 


ELECTRICITY 

Electricity in Portugal, as in the rest of Europe, comes out of the wall socket at 220 volts alternating at a 50 cycles per second. In the US, electricity comes out of the wall socket at 110 volts, alternating at 60 cycles per second. Not only the voltages and frequencies, but also the sockets themselves are different.

You can get along with just a plug converter for many of today's small electrical devices designed to run on dual voltages. Devices like this include most laptops and recently produced battery chargers and many small electrical gadgets, especially those designed for world travel.


PHONE & INTERNET

There is limited cell phone signal at the center, but we will have free Wi-Fi access in the communal areas. However, please try to disconnect as much as possible. 


YOGA MATS + PROPS

Yoga mats, blocks, straps, bolsters and blankets are available at the yoga temple. However, you may prefer to travel with your own mat.


BUGS 

October is not typically a bad time of year for mosquitoes. Most bites occur during sunset/sunrise or in shady places in the forest. It is best that you bring a good insect repellent with you. You might also like to wear long pants in the evenings. 


SHEETS AND TOWELS 

All your rooms will have fresh sheets and towels provided. You should bring a towel for the beach, otherwise, a sarong will also work well and be much lighter to travel with.


MONEY

The currency in Portugal is the Euro (€).

€1.00 equals around $1.17 

$1.00 equals €0.85

You can pay us directly for any optional tours, activities and bodywork together at the end of the week in cash ($ or €). You will be able to take money out of the ATM using your debit and credit cards. We may also receive payment via Paypal or Wetravel, but you will be charged a 5% service and Paypal fee.


FOOD:

We will offer a range of traditional Portuguese and international vegetarian dishes, incorporating organic vegetables that are grown on the property and local produce from nearby villages and markets. Please inform us of any dietary requirements or restrictions ahead of time and we will try our best to accommodate you. Also if you have any allergies, please let us know in advance.


Plant based cooking:

"I´m vegetarian for over 30 years and in the last 10 years, I´m cooking as well vegan dishes.  Vegan and vegetarian diet are in no way ascetism, but instead they support a good health, offering a variety of treats and creativity. In the same time they help to create understanding  and compassion for the animals. This two aspects are the reason that we offer this food at Monte Velho."

Antónia (chef)


BEVERAGES: 

Local organic wine will be served with meals. There will be a selection of teas, coffee and fresh fruit juices available throughout the day.


SECURITY:

There is not much need for strict security measures at the retreat center, however, there are keys for all the rooms and we can also lock away your passports etc. for you in the main safe.


NB. Please be extra careful of your valuables and belongings in Lisbon, especially on the public transport, as there are a lot of pickpockets around. 


LAUNDRY:

There is a laundry service available at the retreat centre, but there will be a charge per wash. If you only have a few items that need washing or wish to wash your yoga clothes on a daily basis, then we can arrange for a group wash, but you should not expect them back for 48hrs.

What’s included

  • Lisbon
    2 nights in Lisbon (arrival/departure)
  • Accommodation
    6 nights in Algarve
  • Food
    All healthy vegetarian meals (Algarve)
  • Drinks
    Local organic wine served with meals
  • Travel
    Group transfers between Lisbon and Algarve
  • Yoga
    All yoga and meditation classes with April
  • Activities
    Group excursions to beaches and local towns
  • Tips
    Added Staff gratuities

What’s not included

  • Travel
    International flights and individual transfers
  • Food
    Lunch and dinner in Lisbon
  • Activities
    Additional optional activities and services
  • Tours
    Entrance and guide fees

Available Packages

REGISTRATION and TRAVELLER INFORMATION

Dear Guest

Please take 5 minutes to fill out your traveller information and to agree to our terms and conditions, in order to officially register for your retreat.

Many thanks

Angus and Tania

Chirriposa Retreats

$0

Itinerary

LISBON
Recommendations for things to do and see

1. TORRE BELEM - A UNESCO world heritage site and one of Portugal’s most famous monuments. The Gothic tower was built to guard the entrance to the harbour and has some fine examples of Portuguese stonework dating from the 1500s.


2. The historic ‘BAIRRO ALTO’ and ‘BAIXA CHIADO’ districts have a network of quaint, old-fashioned trams that lurch and screech around the narrow streets of the capital. No visit to Lisbon is complete without taking a ride on one of these classic, pre-war, Remodelado trams. In total there are five different tram routes, which either head east (towards Alfama) or west (towards Belem).

Also check out the various ‘Funicular’ trams, that take you on a seemingly vertical ascent and the famous ‘Elevador de Santa Justa’ lift,  inaugurated on the 10th July 1902 and it is the only vertical lift in Lisbon for public service. It was built by the architect Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard and has a cast iron structure, enriched with filigree details. In 2002 it was classified as a National Monument.


3. IGREJA DE SÃO VICENTE DE FORA - Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques, laid the foundation stone for the first church of St Vincent 'Outside' - that is, beyond the then city walls - hardly a month after taking Lisbon from the Moors in 1147. He was fulfilling a vow to construct Christian houses of worship on the sites where Portuguese soldiers and northern European crusaders lay buried. The big draw are the cloisters, richly decorated with early 18th-century tile panels, some illustrating La Fontaine fables. Inside there's the royal pantheon of the Braganza family, the last dynasty to rule Portugal. The figure of a weeping woman kneels before the twin tombs of Dom Carlos I and Crown Prince Luís Filipe, shot by assassins in 1908.


4. ALFAMA is one of the oldest districts of Lisbon, and is a delightful maze of narrow cobbled streets and ancient houses, which lead up the steep hill from the Tejo Estuary to THE CASTLE. Contained within this diverse and charismatic district are many historic buildings including the Se Cathedral, the Castle, the National Pantheon and Saint Anthony’s Church. Originally, Alfama was situated outside of the city walls and was associated with poverty and squalor, where only the poor and disadvantaged resided. As Lisbon grew into an important port, the district retained its lowly status as the tough and deprived district where sailors and dock workers lived. Today, Alfama has shrugged off its grim reputation, being transformed into a fashionable artisan district, while still retaining its character and dilapidated charm.


5. MUDE (Museu do Design e da Moda) - Lisbon's Museum of Design and Fashion highlights the links between the two disciplines: the permanent displays were donated to the city by a private collector with an interest in both fields. It's housed in a cavernous former bank headquarters. The underground vault and second-floor gallery host temporary exhibitions, while the ground floor showcases the main collection: iconic and experimental clothing, footwear and accessories, household design and furniture - even the odd scooter.


FOOD

TIME OUT MARKET LISBOA - The food court of Lisbon’s historic market hall – the Mercado da Ribeira – was taken over by Time Out in early 2014. The revamped (and bustling) Time Out Mercado da Ribeira is now home to 35 permanent stalls from some of Lisbon’s most celebrated foodie shops and restaurants.

TIME OUT MARKET LISBOA

Address: Avenida 24 de Julho 49, Lisbon 1200-479 

Opening hours: Sunday - Wednesday: 10:00 to 00:00; Thursday - Saturday: 10:00 to 02:00

Your Organizer


CR
Chirriposa Retreats
45 reviews
Chirriposa specialises in organising and hosting customised retreats, workshops and vacations for groups, individuals, families and friends in amazing locations within Costa Rica and Europe.

Reviews

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Working with Angus and Tania of Chirriposa Retreats on yoga retreat planning is always amazing! They are responsive, savvy and — in addition to their relaxed demeanor — they are always there with everything they promised, on time and with a smile. And occasionally a couple dogs that always make the group smile. This was Turavita’s second retreat working with them and both were fabulous.
By for TURAVITA - COSTA RICA 2024 - Group Leader on Feb 26, 2024
This trip was truly special. Angus and Tania handpicked the best spots to share. The food was excellent. The scenery was beautiful. The fun is priceless. So very thankful I had this experience. I cannot recommend this trip and these lovely people enough!
By Cecilia T for 'Vino & VInyasa' - The Art of Enjoying Life in Tuscany on Oct 10, 2023
Over the top. Tania & Angus are officially family. The food, planning & personal touch were unparalleled. Kudos Burt & Robin
By Burt S for 'Vino & VInyasa' - The Art of Enjoying Life in Tuscany on Oct 03, 2023
This was our 6th time doing this retreat and I think that speaks for itself. Everything about this experience is perfect for us. The yoga is excellent as is the food. The grounds are beautiful and the wildlife abundant. We rather appreciate the low key vibe of this retreat with lots of down time to comfortably rest in shady spots, dip in the pool to cool off and unplug. We had a gorgeous accommodation at Casa Rio and think of it as home now. I love that the experience is somewhat rustic - living open to the outdoors for the entire week. Living like that just isn't possible in many places and we appreciate the opportunity to fully feel the breeze off the ocean and listen to the sounds of this magical place where the forest and ocean meet.
By Tyler F for Optimal Living Retreat with Robert Sidoti on Mar 06, 2023
What a fabulous adventure! The twice daily yoga with Diane was fabulous as was the resort. The food at the resort was also delicious with many healthy options that could accommodate any dietary needs. All of the excursions were wonderful and went off without a hitch. The trip was very well organized and Angus was right on top of anything that needed to be addressed. I would definitely book another vacation with Diane and Angus!
By Jennifer Y for Ireland Retreat with Diane Sieg 2022 on Sep 20, 2022
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