Archive for July, 2010

Maitreyi – India

Tuesday, July 27th, 2010

In ancient India the seers communicated with nature and the higher spiritual forces, and the teachings that came forth from those communications was known as the Vedas, and the wisdom obtained through these higher states of mental peace was applied to shape the country.

With this in mind Maitreyi, a beautiful village that covers approximately 25 acres, was founded for those who wished to get away from the hectic day to day events of the city, a place where one may pursue a state of mental tranquility and inner happiness.

Located at the foothills of the western parts of Ghats, which contains some of the purest natural environments of the country, the village of Maitreyi was built there after the vision of the seers, and supported by a European group seeking Vedic knowledge.

Maitreyi Retreat

Maitreyi is an eco friendly village, built near the Aliyar Dam Lake in Tamil Nadu, which is well known for its natural beauty, but even more for its healthy climate. The architecture and layout of Maitreyi itself is styled on the Vedic architectural knowledge, and caution has been taken to preserve the environment surrounding the village as much as possible.

While practicing organic farming, the practice of Vedas Organic farming techniques is a sight for sore eyes, enriching the natural scenery rather than disrupting it. Every activity is geared towards preserving nature instead of exploiting and destroying it.

Maitreyi is the location where tourists go for treatments involving meditation, enlightenment and Ayurvedic treatments, that looks at modern day tension as the cause for poor health. Those who have visited the village and participated in the treatments describe it as uplifting and relaxing.

Maitreyi is a place for relaxation, inner peace and healing, and well known amongst tourists as the place where one can rekindle the connection to our inner self.  Besides healings and meditation, there are lots of cultural happenings, involving traditional dances and musical performances, in celebration of cultural events according to the Vedas calendar. Tourists will experience what the wisdom of Vedas is all about.

Vedic Culture

In the village, classes are organized for experiencing several cleansing and rejuvenation therapies, while accommodated in beautiful traditional cottages. The experience will be a revelation to many tourists, who shall leave calmer and more balanced than ever before.

Besides the activities in Maitreyi it is also good to explore its surroundings, gaze at mystical waterfalls, and visit the ancient temples. For those that cannot stand to be away from the big city for too long, Coimbatore and Palghat are nearby with a population of 400 million, one will get a good impression of urban India.

Maitreyi is the perfect holiday destination for those who seek to recharge their batteries after a long period of hectic city life. It is a place of mystical peace and tranquility, where inner peace and higher states of being are practiced, taught and cherished, along with beautiful natural scenery, that amazes the eye, and installs awe in all that gaze upon it. Those that visit Maitreyi will leave feeling reborn and ready to take on the world once more!

M.A.H.

Prague - Czech Republic

Monday, July 5th, 2010

It is really not that surprising that Prague has turned into one of the major tourism destinations of Europe. This energetic city, capital of the Czech Republic, holds lots of historical buildings, but also is the center of the exciting nightlife in the country, with its many clubs and lounges. The large shopping areas will appeal to many holiday shoppers, which makes Prague suitable for all types of holidays, long and short.

View of Prague

Prague is suitable for a day trip destination, but also for longer holidays. The city is the Czech heart of the arts and has a rich music and art scene, where visiting tourists can experience anything from Shakespeare to performance artists.

The two main attractions of Prague in terms of culture and historical buildings are without a doubt the castle of Prague and St Vitus Cathedral. Prague castle, which is the world’s largest castle, is easiest to reach by car, and from up there you can watch over all of Prague. The St Vitus Cathedral contains the tombs of many of the famous Bohemian rulers, and if you visit at 12pm you can witness the changing of the guards.

Another popular spot in Prague is Charles Bridge, which is a lively place during the day, filled with artists selling their art between the many statues that are displayed there. Half way across the bridge you will find some small stairs leading down to an area with plenty of cafes and restaurants, which makes the perfect place to enjoy a tasty lunch, and just around the corner, there will be the John Lennon Wall filled with Graffiti art, inspired by the greatest Beatle. Allow yourself to be moved by the added texts, and be sure to come prepared with tissues.

Charles Bridge

A benefit to visiting Prague is the low prices, where decent accommodation is still very affordable. Western Europeans or citizens of the United States will be amazed with the low cost of everything this great city has to offer. When looking for good accommodation, worthy of a memorable time spent in the Capital of Czech, look for the three star hotels, which will provide you with all the luxuries at very decent prices. Most of these hotels are located in beautiful historical buildings, which add to the atmosphere and definitely are an added bonus. Often these buildings date back far into the medieval time periods, which will provide an unforgettable experience.

Prague is an excellent holiday destination for anyone, but especially for those that are holidaying on a budget, but still want to experience the full holiday treatment.

M.A.H.