The 12-day Yoga Retreat for New Year’s 2024-25 in Vietnam was a journey through history, culture, landmarks, colors, and gastronomy—but above all, it was an introduction to a wonderful nation and its people.
I had been waiting many years for the moment I would visit Vietnam. It wasn’t just the images of the Golden Bridge, the Train Street, or even the uniquely beautiful Halong Bay with its mini-cruise. It was the need to understand how a people resisted for their independence through 1,000 years with the Chinese, 100 years of French colonialism, and the 20-year war with the invading American forces. They are a proud people, with political leaders like Ho Chi Minh and spiritual leaders like Confucius.
Today’s Vietnam is far from a typical Communist state; as our local guide said, “Happiness is a state of mind.” After many years, there is peace and a drive for growth. From South Vietnam, I will cherish Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), the Mekong Delta, Cu Chi—where the battle for liberation began—and the War Remnants Museum.
In the Central region, we visited the charming Hoi An with its lanterns, the unique rice paddies leading toward Ba Na Mountain, and Asia’s longest cable car with its breathtaking views. In the North, we experienced Hanoi with its street food vibes and our passage through Ninh Binh. The atmosphere and imagery of Halong Bay were stunning, as our traditional cruise ship navigated between the limestone peaks that seemed truly “pinned” into the water. The sunset and sunrise were one of a kind.
Our nine yoga practices were connected to the 5 elements of nature, a fundamental part of the culture and history of the Vietnamese people.
Testimonials
My beloved Fotini and Petros, you generously offered me yet another life experience. A trip perfectly organized down to the last detail: stunning landscapes, magical moments, and a fantastic New Year’s Eve full of love and joy. Wonderful and safe food, an impeccable choice of restaurants and hotels. Halong Bay will remain unforgettable. I wish you many more wonderful journeys, as only you can organize. With love. — M.D.
A journey from South to North. A journey through the history, culture, and natural beauty of a long-suffering yet incredibly grateful people. A journey organized with detail and patience, under the guidance of Petros’ “calm power,” ensuring the needs of every member were met. A journey to meet new people who became friends in such a short time. A journey of joy and celebration to welcome the New Year, but above all, a journey of spirituality and wellness under Fotini’s guidance. Thank you for the experience! — N.K., S.F. & I.F.
Fotini and Petro, thanks a lot for this wonderful trip to Vietnam. Great Experience. Looking forward to the next one. Thanks. — A.K.
The most important thing about traveling isn’t just seeing new places, but that every time we see something new, the way we view the world changes. Fotini and Petros, thank you for the beautiful experience. — Ch.A. & V.L.
My beloved Petros and Fotini, you organized a wonderful trip, full of images and experiences. Vietnam is a life journey among kind and smiling people who offer you everything they have with respect and love. Every day was unique with perfect organization!! Leaving, I feel deep gratitude for everything I experienced!! I thank you warmly!! I wish you continued success in offering new experiences! — K.R.
A very beautiful trip, with lovely images and experiences! Very good organization; we managed to see so many places. Thank you so much for organizing this, and here’s to many more! — A.Z.
It was a wonderful journey with many different landscapes and a rich culture. Kind people who want to find peace after so many wars. The nature is amazing. The organization was wonderful, with a very beautiful group of people that—even though we were many, about 30 people—had no tensions, and by the end, most of us were friends. I look forward to the next trip. — N.N.
A country so different from ours, with a completely unknown culture. The smiles of the people made me see life differently—to see how lucky I am with what I have. — M.P.
This retreat was a unique experience. Countless, unique images, excellent organization and guidance from Petros and Fotini. It helped me relax and connect more with my practice. A truly “full” journey. — A.T.
Vietnam: a journey of challenges. 2 different cities, 2 domestic flights, 1 cable car mountain ascent, 1 island cruise, 1 stop in a picturesque village. Millions of images!! You deserve congratulations for the organization, your stamina, your patience, and your ability to overcome any difficulties with a smile and warmth. So much was packed into these days that it will take us time to unravel the cocoon within us, spread the threads of our experiences, and weave our silken stories. Thank you from the heart! — K.P.
My beloved ones, once again I had a wonderful time!!! Vietnam was a unique experience for me. Unique images, wonderful landscapes, lovely people, new flavors, and colors—so many colors that captivated me!!! Thank you for all the beautiful moments I lived!! I look forward to the next dream journey!!! Many, many kisses, dear ones! — M.A.
Moments of incredible beauty, consistency in yoga practices, a cohesive group—we had a magical time thanks to the joint efforts of Fotini and Petros! Thank you, and see you at the next ones! — N.T.
My first time with your group on such a long journey, and I enjoyed it immensely. Very beautiful company, organization, and landscapes! This trip had everything! Thank you so much for everything, and I can’t wait for the next journey. With love! — I.H.
A magical journey in a country that fills you with images, colors, and peace. However, just as important as the destination is the company, and we had the best! Petros and Fotini, thank you for the organization and the beautiful companionship! And remember the slogan of our trip: “Happiness is a state of mind.” — Ch.V.
A wonderful trip full of colors, images, and emotions. The organization was perfect and rich! My fellow travelers were all wonderful; we became one big group of friends. Thank you Petros and Fotini. Until we meet again. — M.K.
Petros and Fotini, you outdid yourselves. You organized a trip that had it all. We were filled with images, colors, and emotions! Even though this trip caught me at a difficult personal moment, I enjoyed it thoroughly. Thank you very much. Looking forward to our next meeting. — F.Z.
Another wonderful trip with Petros and Fotini, full of dreamy moments and endless experiences in an exotic country with infinite imagery. Thank you very much. — P.T. & M.V.
Second time with your group and definitely not the last. A wonderful trip organized in the best possible way, full of images and beauty. I might not be the “best” student, but we will definitely go again, Fotini and Petros! — V.D.
A wonderful journey to a large and very interesting country with a unique culture, colors, landscapes, and gastronomy. Perfect organization—80% of a trip’s success is in the hands of the leader, and Petros had 100% full control, constant updates, and was always at the clients’ disposal to cover all needs; he was like “Saint Nektarios” [a savior]. As for Fotini, what can I say? She is a Grand Master of Yoga. — L.K.
Wonderful Vietnam! An incredible experience—all that we lived, witnessed, and felt these days. A place and a people that highlight the importance of freedom and joy in the simplest way, daily. Once again, thanks to Petros and his skills, the maximum level of perfect organization was achieved. Excellent company, wonderful fellow travelers. Everything evolved smoothly and with a beautiful flow. I thank you from my heart, Petros and Fotini. I leave Vietnam feeling much richer. — F.P.
Our first trip to Asia with an excellent team of interesting fellow travelers. Different images, civilization, culture, nature, cuisine, and human temperament. As always, the organization was unique, the choices were spot-on, and the sense of safety was unsurpassed thanks to Fotini and Petros, who face any adversities with calmness, gentleness, and humor. Thank you. — M.N. & R.Z.
