Press release: holistic holidays

MEDIA RELEASE: 13 January 2009

Holistic holidays hit a high in hard times

Leading ethical travel company responsibletravel.com has seen a dramatic year on year increase in ‘holistic and wellbeing’ holidays.

The 121% rise seen in 2008 is thought to be as a result of the credit crunch – the depressing economic outlook is causing travellers to search for holiday options that help to renew their spiritual wellbeing.

Justin Francis, MD of responsibletravel.com said:
“More and more travellers are looking to re-connect with themselves on holiday – they are searching for some kind of sanity in the current economic madness. They want to feel re-energised in mind, body and soul. Yoga and Pilates holidays, mediation retreats, spas and holistic holidays can all help with stress relief – reminding us of the more important things in life and encouraging greater relaxation."

Here’s what previous holistic holiday customers have said…

Barry Woodward: “Combining the health-giving value of Pilates with that of food grown within a few paces of the house, the accommodation offers a total experience for mind and body.”

Laila Manji: “It was brilliant. Mentally liberating as the island and the lodge are so peaceful and calming.”

Rowan Foster: “I very much enjoyed the yoga sessions in the early morning which took place in a pavilion overlooking the river and paddy fields. With the mist over the river and sounds of birds, it was a magical experience.”

See below for holistic and wellbeing holidays or visit responsibletravel.com/holistic for over 40 options.

Holistic meditation tour of Thailand - from £1150 (14 days)
Learn about meditation with the Buddhists monks at the Thai Wisdom Centre, visit the ancient capital of Ayuthaya before boarding a rice barge for a gentle meander down the river, stopping off to enjoy the wildlife in Khao Yao National Park before taking time to relax on the lovely island of Koh Chang. The itinerary runs throughout the year at a time to suit you and departs with a minimum of two people.

Pilates and Italian cooking holiday, Piedmont - from £725
Stay in an old Piemontese farmhouse set within its own organic vineyard and kitchen gardens overlooking stunning hilltop villages in Southern Piedmonte, North West Italy. Enjoy both Pilates and Italian cooking courses under the guidance of chef Gino Minacapilli. Additional facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, steam rooms, a large south-facing terrace, a home cinema and a library. Trips lasting 4 - 8 days can be arranged.

From mid February to the end of the ski season, there is also the opportunity to visit and ski at Sestriere, home of the 2006 Winter Olympics. Two mid week ski days will be arranged including ski hire and lessons. (minimum of three guests).

Life coaching holiday in Greece – from £595 - £1145 (8-14 days)
This centre nestles on the hillside at the edge of a village in the Sporades Islands, only accessible by foot through narrow, cobblestone streets. The centre’s courtyard, shaded by fig and pomegranate trees, has a panoramic view of the valley and the Aegean. A typical day starts with yoga on the terrace followed by a late morning life coaching workshop. During the afternoon you can laze around on a long sandy beach, enjoy a massage, or just like the Greeks, take an afternoon nap!

Departs 16 May, 30 May, 6 Jun, 13 Jun, 28 Jun, 12 Jul, 26 Jul, 9 Aug, 23 Aug, 6 Sep, 19 Sep, 26 Sep 2009.

Notes to editors

About responsibletravel.com:
responsibletravel.com is the world's leading online ethical travel company, selling over 3,000 holidays from over 270 specialist operators and 550 accommodations. All the holidays meet specific responsible tourism guidelines and aim to create better places for people to live and to visit. Launched in 2001 with backing from Dame Anita Roddick, the website is for travellers who want more real and authentic holidays that also benefit the environment and local people. The organisation - based in Brighton, England - also campaigns for positive change in the travel and tourism industry.

Contact:
Krissy Pentland
press@responsibletravel.com
07717 348 368