🦩 Spiritual Retreat in Japan, Should You? ⛩️

The most beautiful thing in the world, is, of course, the world itself. – Wallace Stevens

Hello there,

Calling all stressed-out souls! Remember that yearning for inner peace and epic views?  I found something that might just tick both boxes: a spiritual retreat in Japan that oozes tranquility and maybe even a sprinkle of enlightenment (okay, maybe a whole lot!). ✨

This isn't your average dusty-basement meditation, though. We're talking Zenbo Seinei, a stunning temple on Awaji Island designed by a world-renowned architect. Think waking up to stunning panoramas, yoga on a sunshine-soaked terrace, and delicious local food – all wrapped in the serenity of a traditional temple. Sounds like a dream, right?

But before you book your flight (don't worry, I won't judge!), let's see if Zenbo Seinei is your zen haven or best left for seasoned meditation masters.

So grab your metaphorical cup of calming tea and join me on a journey to discover if Zenbo Seinei unlocks your inner peace (and maybe some epic Instagram moments!).

P.S. Share your thoughts! Have you ever been on a retreat? What are your concerns? Hit reply and let's chat!

P.S.S. Story of the day: Locked and taken away, the wild story of Michel’s bag

ZENBO SEINEI, APPROVED RETREAT ⛩️

Imagine this: an island haven bathed in lush greenery, where ancient myths whisper in the wind and the ocean roars in the distance. Here, nestled amidst the trees, rises Zenbo Seinei, a modern temple designed to reignite your spirit and reconnect with nature.

Built by renowned architect Shigeru Ban, Zenbo Seinei is a far cry from your traditional temple stay. Think light-filled, sustainable wooden structures seemingly floating among the canopy, offering breathtaking views at every turn. It's an oasis of tranquility designed to nourish your mind, body, and senses.

Forget cluttered shrines and austere routines. Zenbo Seinei embraces minimalist living, offering you the chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself. Days are filled with calming activities like meditation, calligraphy, and even a session of mindful cleaning – inspired by Buddhist practices.

But this isn't just about stillness. The open-air terrace becomes a platform for harmonious body and mind workshops, featuring yoga and posture exercises led by experts. As the sun dips below the horizon, gather around the table for a unique culinary experience. Here, Buddhist vegan cuisine is redefined, showcasing the magic of fermented foods and local ingredients. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, bursting with life and awakening your taste buds.

Afterward, unwind in the vast footbath, designed like a peaceful stone garden. Let the soothing warmth and the gentle rustle of leaves lull you into a state of pure relaxation. Forget the alarm clock – here, the rhythm of nature dictates your time.

Is Zenbo Seinei for you? If you yearn for a modern sanctuary where ancient wisdom meets contemporary design, where every detail is crafted to awaken your senses and refresh your spirit, then this island escape might just be your answer.

Ready to embark on your journey? Come explore Zenbo Seinei and discover a new way to experience peace, mindfulness, and the beauty of Japan.

Visit the Zenbo Seinei website to learn more.

TRAVEL DIARIES

Locked and taken away, the wild story of Michel’s bag

“I was in a youth hostel in Pai, Thailand. For 3 nights. Ordered from Booking.

During the stay, the owners, who had their house on the same land, refunded me the equivalent of one night. "Probably for the deposit", I thought to myself, without really understanding their English.

On the last day, I wander around town until evening. I got back to the hostel around 9pm. It was getting dark. And on the way back to the field...

... "THIS HOSTEL IS NOW CLOSED"!

I go out onto the grounds... The owners' house: closed. Garden furniture: gone. And the maisonette/dormitory: padlocked.

And then, panic... My travel bag was in this dormitory. With everything in it...

Passport.

Clothes.

Credit card.

On top of that, my phone was about to go dead (less than 10% battery). And no direct way to contact the owners, even from Booking... I had no choice but to check into the dormitory. As the padlock was too large to break, I went in search of a tool. It was an isolated inn, with no neighbors. So no potential help.

I decided to break into the owners' house to find this.

I forced open the basement door, which wasn't very strong. I searched the whole room, and there were objects with a ton of dust on them, probably there for years... And I finally found a pair of bolt cutters! I come out of the basement. Run to the dormitory. Cut the padlock. Enter the dormitory...

EMPTY. No bag.

At this point, I really start to panic because I'd almost used up my last % of battery power to make light in the basement... I found myself with no belongings at the end of Thailand, in the middle of the night. It was now 10pm. Suddenly, I received an email. The owners had contacted me through my Booking reservation. They told me they had an emergency to deal with for several days. That's why they had reimbursed me for the 3rd night & closed the establishment.

They had my bag and I had to go and get it. Fortunately, they were kind enough to wait for me in the center of Pai. In a bar, 8 minutes away. I apologized for wasting their time. And thanked them for keeping the bag for me. I was able to continue my adventure.

THE END.

NOTE: I had forgotten to mention that I had cut their padlock. I promised myself I'd get back to them one day with a new padlock.”

MINGO-MEMES

VASCO-SNAP OF THE DAY

Vernazza, Italy