What travelers are saying
Many of our guests return year after year and often bring friends and family members to share these unforgettable adventures.
Leading fantastic trips for over 15 years we now often have multiple generations coming together!
Read reviews for
Greece - Tuscany - Puglia - Bali - Overall Experience - Yoga
Greece Retreat Reviews
“I have to say, this was the best trip I have ever been on, and the best-guided trip. I’m so happy that I could dive in and immerse myself into Greece with your presence and guidance. Truly memories I will cherish forever.”
–Kitty Thoresen, CA
“My first retreat with Julia was the most freeing experience of my life UNTIL the second. Amorgos! This trip was a life changer. I have no idea how Julia wraps yoga, serenity, adventure, spirituality, awe-inspiring sight-seeing and self-awakening into a week—but damn she does it well.“
-Chris-Ann Szep, MD
“Celebrated my 50th with dear friends on Julia's Greece trip last May. What an extraordinary experience! Greece is amazing and Julia is truly a special person to guide us into the best! What a great balance of yoga, touring, great food, rest and libations. The accommodations were wonderful!! I can't wait to go back!!!”
– Judi, DC
“I cannot begin to tell you how fabulous this trip/pilgrimage has been. Being with a fantastic group of women in such a gorgeous setting. I did not even imagine this trip would be all of the things and I can't even list them – spectacular, fun, therapeutic, freeing, beautiful, fulfilling... I am free! It has been a pleasure learning from you.”
-Eileen Zielinksi, PA
“I have been on many of Julia's retreats, some of them multiple times. The Greece retreat was like a drink of light for my soul, not to mention the amazing sea. Come along for the adventure! Julia's attention to every detail and to the quality of your experience will be impressive. Her passion for what she loves and the willingness and ability to share this with grace, delight and a bright spirit is truly inspiring and will create that truly unique experience. And I always know I'll be hanging out with really cool fellow travelers.”
-Juli Trout, CA
“The whole experience was so rich on so many levels, I can't begin to describe in words. Most people know Mykonos and Santorini as Greece, but this is wholly something else – especially with your inward guidance through the whole process and experience. I appreciated so much the level of depth that you bring – evident from the beginning with the whole preparation, how you prepare us to make travel like a pilgrimage. And I like it that we can go shopping, too and add that to the pleasures!
This experience reconnected me with the sense of depth that I often lack in my everyday life at home – real connection, creativity, the deeper well from which I draw to nourish my life. You've taught us this well is within – and always available so I can replenish and stay (or return) to the track I want to be on, wherever I am.”
-Karen Bertrand, CA
“I love everything about these trips. (I've been on four so far). I love to learn, feel love, experience life and be happy, that's how I felt on this trip. At every place of peace and sanctuary I gave thanks for being a part of such an amazing experience. The sun on my face, the scent of sage, oregano, the sounds of bells, loved every moment. Thank you Julia for making all of your trips life-changing, unforgettable, and truly heartfelt!”
-Jaime Balint, NJ
“I feel restored, replenished, renewed. Each day, I could feel one or two more layers letting down. I feel refreshed.”
-Amy Garceau, IL
“Julia brought another world to me to explore and I am overwhelmed by the experience – something that always felt off limits is actually possible. Time to continue breaking all the other limits that were imposed by myself for no reason at all. I fell in love with Greece, and am empowered to explore.”
Debbie Blehm, CA
“Le yoga + hiking + swimming retreat in Amorgos fut la plus belle semaine de ma vie! Quelle belle énergie tu as, quelle beauté et quelle patience tu as! Tu nous a fait découvrir tout sur Amorgos que tu aimes personnellement depuis toutes ces années! Merci beaucoup de partager toutes ces précieuses découvertes.”
Translation: The retreat in Amorgos was the most beautiful week of my life! What beautiful energy you have, what beauty and patience you have! You guided us to discover everything of Amorgos that you have personally loved over all these years! Thank you so much for sharing all of these precious discoveries.”
-Jocelyne Vanthournout, Belgium
“Most amazing journey to the beginning of my next chapter. I will take the vibrations of the center of the earth with me forever, these amazing experiences here in magnificent Greece and especially Amorgos, thank you Julia, for revealing such precious gifts!”
-Kathy Kunda, IL, USA
“I had my eye on Julia’s Greek Odyssey trip for years as I knew it would be spectacular – knowing from past experience how Julia creates retreats that truly nourish the body, mind and soul – So I landed in Greece with high expectations – and this trip far exceeded my wildest dreams of what I thought was possible!
Meeting new people and forging new relationships is a given on retreat type trips like this but the piece that was unexpected was the relative ease in transitioning into retreat mode and letting go of work, family and all of the busyness at home.
I attribute this to Julia’s unique leadership style with providing tools for us to be ‘present’ while on our trip and truly take a retreat by helping us detach by leading us through daily yoga / meditation practice and taking us on meditative walks / hikes through fragrant fields of thyme, oregano and lavender where the aromatic plant essences can put one in a state of spontaneous bliss!! I’ve barely left the retreat and I know for sure that I will be coming back to Julia’s retreat in this special place.”
-Holly Johnson, NH
Tuscany Retreat Reviews
“Julia Ingersoll is a genius at putting together and leading groups to magical places in a way that invites magic...my trip was the one in Tuscany, in the Val d’Orcia. Her attention to detail and the people and places she includes – such as the extraordinary farm-estate where we were pampered all week – make for an unforgettable trip. Look her up and sign up for a life-changing experience!”
– Shelley, MT
“For one week we were totally in tune to a natural care of the soul. Art surrounded and enveloped us. And the rest of the world fell away. Such a genuine and heartfelt response to my numerous grazies over the week in Tuscany. To be welcomed and treated as family, it's so hard to express my gratitude in words.
Heavenly cappuccinos every morning, leisurely lunches and elegant dinners served with such care by such kind, genuine gentlemen who knew everyone by name. The food! The wine! Mama mia! What a treat to be amongst such natural grace and attentiveness.
Morning yoga in the limonaia led by Julia was such a calming and invigorating start to the day. She instilled in us a clarity that we carried into our day. Her familiarity with the people and the history of the region made this trip so personal. Our trip to a whimsical artist's Montalcino vineyard was so unique. Welcomed again as family, meeting his wife, & daughter, walking amongst the vines and his works of art. Lying on the grass in the sun after wine tasting and a special lunch...such a unique experience. This is Julia's world and I am so happy she has shared it with us.
Her words of wisdom, spiritual guidance, and sense of peace stay with me long after I have re-entered reality.
It was so wonderful to meet and spend time with like-minded people from all over who adore art. I'll fondly remember each and every one of our fun group. Breakfast, lunch and dinners at Alessandro's farm tables decorated with fresh rose-petals and thyme and other herbs from the garden, painting in the hills of Tuscany, our final feast -our own Thanksgiving for a week of grace and beauty...and the dance party... complete with congo line! What a finale.
I'll miss the cowbells and the frogs at night and the smell of woodsmoke and the abundant wildflowers, the olive trees and ancient abbey. I'll miss the painting and drawing for hours on end with nothing else to worry about. I'll miss the company. But I have l learned much and am taking that back to my daily life. I am beyond grateful for a renewed faith in humanity and an abundant appreciation for the natural world. Grazie Mille to all!”
– Kristin, CT
“Each time I’ve been in Tuscany, I have looked to the hills and wondered what life would be in these large houses and farms – this has been ever so special to find, in this magical way. I know the spirit here we’ve experienced on this retreat is nowhere else in Tuscany or the world.”
– Maryann, FL
“Julia’s retreat was one of my best experiences ever – and I travel all the time. She organises this retreat in one of the most beautiful places on earth, a piece of heaven, and gives us the possibility to do things which we would never guessed it was possible (at least for me).
Magic always seemed something abstract but suddenly it became real during Julia’s retreat in Tuscany! It is like painting: it seems impossible but suddenly it is there and you see the world in a completely different way. I had never painted before but she convinced me in a second to undertake this journey. Her belief in other people just gives you strength to do things which you never saw yourself doing.
‘When nothing is sure, everything is possible.’
The whole organisation of the trip is also 100% quality. The place we stayed at made the whole experience even more complete. We met the sweetest people ever and tasted the best food in the world! No words for it!! They all treated us like queens by giving us every day a special treat! Julia organised a wine tasting in the most gorgeous vineyard and took us to special places along the way!
Julia gave me so much inspiration. One word to describe this retreat and place: Magical! The impossible became possible. Some magical experiences like this can just make you do incredible things without knowing you could. Always keep believing, is one of so many inspirations I take home with me. I will recommend your retreats to everyone so you can transform the Belgian mentality!
–Jolien, 30, Belgium
“While sitting in traffic on the Mass Pike, I think about the time spent in Tuscany, meeting such inspiring people and traveling with you. What a wonderful time, experience and "sisterhood" developed in such a short time.
The Tuscany experience was magical .......
Art, frescos, monasteries, medieval stone paths, luscious grapes, picnics ~ yoga for the mind
Smiling faces, gracious hosts, hugs, laughs, stories and journeys, new baby ~ yoga for the heart
Food from the garden, red ripe tomatoes, fresh ricotta, pecorino cheese, beautiful wine, cappuccinos ~ yoga for the mouth
Ribbons of landscapes, quiet breeze, chicken-clucks, Ito's kitty-belly across your arm, being present, introduction to your spirit ~ yoga
Sore muscles, stiff calves, sweating, heart beating, flowers, views, bees ~ hiking!
– Maureen, MA
“Such a fantastic experience! The food, the wine, the places, the people, the yoga and the endless adventures. I will never forget and I only yearn to be immersed in such a life as soon as I can. You are a strong light Julia that I just adore. Thank you so much for Tuscany!”
–Jane England Abbott, Calgary, CAN
“Thank you for a wonderful trip: Tuscany was more beautiful than I had imagined. I miss our morning yoga classes looking out over the Tuscan hills and the beautiful sunsets. Spedalone was a perfect setting with such charm, history, and simplicity. I loved Alessandro and the other men who took such good care of us with wonderful meals and attention. It was so nice to spend time with old friends and make new ones. I so appreciate your positive outlook on life and spiritual-life messages for us all! You are a very talented yoga teacher and I took away so much from your classes. I'm half way through the book you gave us and I'm really enjoying it....thank you so much!”
–Lisa Cummings, USA
“What could be better than a holiday in Tuscany? A foodie and yoga holiday with fabulous Julia in Tuscany! Julia was a world class professional mountain biker in a former life, and is currently one of the best yoga teachers, and a professional artist. She is super organized, speaks the languages, very caring, and has the most energy & passion of anyone I know. She has wonderful, talented friends who will become your friends, too, as she takes you to Pienza and around. You’ll walk with her friends who are a family of wine makers and artists with one of the first private wineries in Tuscany - which you get to visit! The food! The wine! Stay at a stunning old stone farmhouse (run by more of her friends) with inside & outside yoga studios & the best cappuccinos. And the secret charming places Julia knows; I could go on. . . And I am - going on her trips again & again!”
–Patricia Armstrong, CAN and Tuscon, AZ
“Thank you so much for sharing your passion for Italy and for yoga and for life with us. We created memories that will last a lifetime and return to the States refreshed and renewed. We deeply appreciated all the details you prepared to make every meal, every destination and every day so perfect. I hope our paths will cross again in a meaningful way. Thank you for sharing your abundant wisdom with us.”
–Judith Schindler and Chip Wallace, Charlotte, NC
What a wonderful time, experience and "sisterhood" developed in such a short time! The Tuscany experience was magical – Art, frescos, monasteries, medieval stone paths, luscious grapes, picnics: yoga for the mind. Smiling faces, gracious hosts, hugs, laughs, stories and journeys, new baby: yoga for the heart. Food from the garden, red ripe tomatoes, fresh ricotta, pecorino cheese, beautiful wine, cappuccinos: yoga for the mouth. Ribbons of landscapes, quiet breeze, chicken clucks, Ito's kitty-belly across your arm, being present, introduction to your spirit: Yoga. Work-out, stiff calves, sweating, incredible beauty all around: Hiking! I so appreciated it all.
–Maureen Murphy, USA
“Cara Julia, from all of us on the “Squadra Toscana”: GRAZIE! We had a fantastic, unforgettable time! The entire experience exceeded expectations beyond words – and they were high! ”
—Trish, Dave, Karen, Tim, Georgia, Fausto, Denise, and Christine (AZ, MI, Switzerland, Italy, MI)
“The past week has allowed me to fully realize the impacts of our amazing experience together in Tuscany. I’d say—without a doubt – that this was the experience of a lifetime.”
— Keira Ritter, Boulder, CO
“What an amazing adventure! Thank you for sharing your immense joy and talent. I leave inspired and stronger knowing my heart, and mind, and body will continue this yoga journey. I leave renewed! You are a blessing and a light-being and I feel very privileged to know you. And did you notice? Fausto never missed a yoga session!”
—Georgia Ellis-Fillice, Geneva
“Words cannot express the joy that I found in my time with you and the group in Tuscany. It was wonderful and so good for my soul. You are such a jewel. Con molto gratitudine.”
— Pat Morrow, NY
“I wish I was going again! It was one of my best holidays ever. Thanks for everything Julia!”
—Deb Kallis, Calgary, CAN
“I have to catch myself, the moments I fall back into crazy/busy mode, and just “breathe” and remember how wonderful it was to find that feeling while in Tuscany.
Thank you so much for everything...for who you are...for your amazing realness, generosity and above all - your genuine heart and soul!! I can’t really put into words how invaluable the trip to Italia was for me, but it sits deep within in me as my “most” favorite experience of all times!”
—Lori Spidle, MD
“It has been 2 years since my daughter and I attended the retreat in Toscana, I can’t tell you how often we still recount this trip! From the time we met up with Julia in Florence to the day she took us back to the airport we agreed that was the best trip we have ever taken.
Julia is the full package! Not only does she have a great personality - she has great knowledge of Italy and the language, art, yoga... and the list goes on. The towns, museums, restaurants Julia took us to we never would have found on our own. Where ever we went people took a liking to Julia and immediately treated us as special guests.
When the timing is right I plan to do this retreat again and maybe even again! Thank you for putting together such a wonderfully full package!”
—Lauren Chancer, Kona, HI
“We both had the best time – I want to say – ever! I was so blown-away with life in Tuscany, the skies, the mountains, the churches, people. We were SO blessed to have you come into our lives. I want to say you have a magic that very few are blessed with. Your inner beauty, talent, patience, you bring out the best in everyone around you.”
—Maggie Chancer, Kona, HI
“Along with your Italian friends you shared so much beauty and grace with all of us. Italy is of course amazing, but would not have been the same without all of you. You created such magic it really moved the spirit of Italy down into a deep cellular level. We were all very lucky! So thanks again. ”
—Kim Evans
“I absolutely love your painting I brought home from our incredible Tuscany trip—it reminds me each day to “let my head bow to my heart.” Since our retreat I have been inspired to pursue my passion for food and will begin culinary arts school in January! I cannot thank you enough for the encouragement to step into a journey of actually living life – this trip was truly incredible. ”
—Deb Brunson, Boulder, CO
“I cannot express to you, Miss Julia, how empowered you made me feel. I felt my light grow and accept life as it encountered your bright soul. Your knowledge and depth know no bounds and I was so enlightened in your presence. That week has marked itself upon my being and the happiness and thirst I feel for life is even more profound.”
—Emily Abbott, Edmonton, CAN
“Grazie seems like such a small word to use when one wants to convey deep thanks and appreciation to someone – molte grazie doesn’t really cover it either, however I hope you accept my sincere gratitude for Everything you did for me this week – that includes the things you did that I am not even aware of or forgot to thank you for ! I learned a lot from you and enjoyed every moment so much. You are an amazing person and leader!”
—Jacqueline Zimmer, Mill Valley, CA
“Long after I’ve returned home - Tuscany’s magic is still with me and pops up everywhere! You are an amazing retreat leader. Everyday was a gift. Thank you! I just feel happy every time I think of Italy and how special my introduction to it was – because of You. I do not hesitate in letting others know how wonderful your retreats are!”
—Christine Leffler, Palo Alto, CA
“Julia, thank you for opening my eyes to yoga and the art of mindfulness Thank you for bringing art history to life while biking and touring the towns. You are an incredible woman and I feel so blessed to be a part of this Tuscany experience! We’ll be back – hopefully with our husbands!”
—Amy Amundsen, DC
Puglia Retreat Reviews
“Extraordinary. In every way! Ahh, Puglia with Julia...I might have to return on both retreats planned for next year.
Puglia was a special opportunity to enjoy a unique experience in a place less traveled. A retreat experience that is both connected to the environment, land & sea, AND luxurious. Julia found the best guides, best places to explore and dine. Every single day was spectacular and made the trip standout. The yoga is amazing too.”
-Karen Bertrand, Menlo Park, CA
“Puglia was my fourth trip with Julia and it exceeded my very-high expectations! From our first day on the beach to our last day relaxing at the spa our time in Puglia was filled with new experiences of this fascinating part of Italy. The unique architecture, the amazing cuisine and the wonderful people we met were all part of a very special journey. Ancient olive trees, cheese making demos, garden-to-table meals....truly amazing! Thank you Julia!
–Lois Watson, CAN
“I can’t even come up with enough superlatives for the Puglia retreat experience! Traveling with Julia Ingersoll on her “Yoga+…" Retreats has become a highlight of my year. This was my eighth trip with Julia and my husband’s fourth! 2018 was the inaugural year of the Puglia Passion, with yoga plus cycling, so of course I was there, with spouse & friends. More plusses: eating, drinking, spa-ing, strolling, & a tiny bit of shopping. The most exquisite masseria to stay in, with delicious food. Highlights were centuries-old olive trees, and discussions with their caretakers. Partaking in fresh mozzarella making - and sampling. Dancing with a local band. Riding with great guides on the oldest Roman roads. And yoga with Julia! She is a master at making friends with the most fascinating and friendly local people, and you know as soon as you meet her that you are her top priority for this very special week. Julia is super organized, multilingual, and makes magic happen. I follow her all over the world!
We loved everything about it! The cycling, the lavish feasts, the excellent yoga, the laughs and the fantastic people. I meditated with an olive tree carbon-dated to be 3,800 years old. It’s hard to explain or even comprehend the feeling of sitting with the oldest being I’ve ever encountered.”
– Tricia and Dave Armstrong, Tuscon, AZ and CAN
“I feel this trip elevated my sense of what my life can be like—like I need to raise the level to come up to how amazing it was, how amazing I felt! Quite the contrary of a typical vacation that I have to recover from, LOL. I feel empowered by this whole experience, met great people, pushed my boundaries, and had a blast.”
–Michelle Bahr, Germany and USA
“I made a great leap and it was the best decision of 2019! Thank you for opening my heart, showing me new and exciting experiences; Puglia with you and your great guides is just amazing and I am in love with everything – poppies, cycling, the sea, the mozzarella, the people, and all things Italian. My soul is full!”
– Susan Wiens, Pasadena, CA
“Grateful for this beautiful experience, grateful to be learning that I am strong! Grateful to be spending time with my mom.”
– KC Murphy, DC
“Best trip I have ever been on—everything was perfect! Great biking, great food, great guides, everything was perfetto – Julia you are a special soul, and the best travel-leader ever! Thank you for helping me relax in yoga (– at least for a week?)
– Lizzie Peters Dudley, NC
“Thank you! For a wonderful retreat in Puglia, thank you for sharing this beautiful country and traditions, kindness and compassion, knowledge, laughs and smiles, biking and yoga practice, helping me learn Italian… and all of the amazing food, wine, and places!
–Lizzie Coleman, NC
“It was a superb, magnificent, a grand experience!" I adored the biking, the sea, the yoga, the beach, and finally the great sun, the mozzarella and burrata, Julia, Vito and Giancarlo, and all les Américaines! Ti AMO. Je vous aime.”
–Jocelyne Vanthournout, BELGIUM
“Such a fantastic experience! The food, the wine, the places, the people, the yoga and the endless adventures I will never forget and I only yearn to be immersed in such a life as soon as I can. You are a strong light Julia that I just adore. Thank you so much for Italia!”
– Jane England Abbott, Calgary, CAN
Bali Retreat
“The Bali retreat was extraordinary: We were truly treated to Bali behind the veil. Before traveling to Bali with Julia, I had done two of her week-long trips in Tuscany. That was all I needed to convince me I needed to see Bali through her eyes. Julia has an extraordinary skill at creating a sense of community both within the groups of travelers and between us and the many people in Bali with whom she has deep relationships.
We were treated to amazing experiences including ceremonies at village temples and sacred sites, welcomed as special guests into private homes and artists’ studios.
The hotels we stayed in were small, perfectly beautiful, with authentic architecture, well staffed and with delicious food. They went above and beyond to make our experience unforgettable.
I cannot recommend highly enough a trip with Julia, anywhere. She would make Walmart an intriguing destination.
Plus she is a fabulous yoga teacher, able to work with stiff beginners like me. I came home with the most incredible photos and stories from this trip: still have people asking if I’ll do the Bali slide show I produced again.”
“This trip was amazing! Every single detail was tended to by knowledgeable and loving staff who know Bali. From daily yoga with an incredible teacher to navigating the crazy Ubud markets to dinner with a prince. This trip exceeded my expectations. This trip was the perfect combination of cultural, physical and spiritual (soul food) activity.”
– Holly, NH
“I just wanted to thank you, so much for the incredible trip to Bali. Not only did take us exploring through nature and the many villages, but you also immersed us in the profound culture of the Balinese people. No wonder this is one of your favorite trips. You also found time to introduce us to two of the best artists in Ubud.
“I will forever remember my experiences in Bali, for they have changed my life. I have not felt this way in years. I feel stronger, both physically and mentally thanks to your wonderful teachings of yoga. And I take home with me an over whelming feeling of peace and acceptance, not only of my self, but for others as well. Thank you Julia you are a beautiful person and your smile will stay with me forever.”
-Jeanette, DC
“We had such an incredible time in Bali! Thanks so much for your empathetic and intuitive teaching and for being so much fun! I just grin whenever I think of our time there. I have traveled all over the world, but this experience with you in Bali just stays with me like none other. We miss you and Bali!”
—Amy, and daughter, Aurora (17 yrs), IL
“I HIGHLY recommend Julia's Bali trip. It was beyond fun and sophisticated, too. Julia is an incredible yoga teacher. And she has great friends in Bali who showed us everything we could possibly see in 10 days, inside and out. Our two resorts were just magical. The flight was long, but it was so worth it.”
-Tricia, CAN
“Thank you for your beautiful yoga sessions each morning and for being true to yourself. I'm inspired by you! Your encouragement and guidance led us deeply into Bali’s heart. I was feeling all of the magnificent energy around me, it’s made an impact on me, and since coming home I’ve been able to identify positive energy moving. And I've already taken steps to realizing my dream job.”
– Nichole, CO
“What a wonderful experience! Thank you for allowing us to journey deeply into this magical world! The trip was incredibly fun and flowing sharing your knowledge of this amazing island and culture. I have a whole new appreciation for our yoga moves and a much better understanding of the Bali and Hindu culture. I just printed my trip pictures. I have well over 500 that are photo book worthy!!”
–Jaime, NJ
“The Bali trip was so amazing, the people, culture, and all the activities we experienced will be life time memories. You are such a wonderful person, so positive and inspirational. You are the best Yoga Instructor!, and your knowledge of Bali and its culture was so moving and nourishing. It truly was a wondrous trip of a lifetime.”
–Michelle, CA
“I am missing yoga in Bali already! It was a wonderful experience Julia, and you bring so much to it. Unforgettable on every level.”
-Jane, CAN
“My elation over this experience of Bali, the wonderful retreat, this special yogi teaching us yoga, is overwhelming and beyond words. If you can...treat yourself: your body, mind and soul, to this retreat with Julia and her Balinese friends.
Thank you for having the insight to give such special touches. All of those details, foresight, pre-arranged experiences and opportunities are so appreciated. I trust the others share the same appreciation for you.
I find myself tearing-up with joy thinking about all that I experienced. It was fate that took me to Esalen and to your wonderful class and then to Bali with you. I am grateful beyond words. I am a totally different person. I am proud of what I have accomplished on this journey. You are a big part of the thrill of the ride!”
– Susan, CA
Overall Reviews
“Julia Ingersoll takes you to the places that she loves. And it shows. Her enthusiasm and joy is contagious. Her knowledge is deep. You become immersed in the places you are visiting through the people you meet and the food you enjoy, you are also guided in the enriching practice of yoga.
On Julia’s retreats, you know you are with a masterful yoga teacher and mentor. You are also with a master storyteller. You leave enriched, body and soul. Thank you Julia, I look forward to the next adventure!”
–Georgia, Geneva
“I always return from a Julia Ingersoll Retreat feeling years younger; in mind, body and spirit. No doubt, a large part is attributed to the sheer pleasure of spending time with Julia and the wonderful people who surround her.
What isn't to love about her adventures? The destinations alone are breathtaking, but Julia brings you right into the fabric of the land (and sea). The active days are filled with yoga and amazing sights that are always experience with a wonderful combination of nature and culture.
Activities are balanced with time for relaxation and reflection. The accommodations are perfect and the food is an amazing experience of fresh local specialties. Evenings are spent with great wine, laughter and listening to Julia's fabulous storytelling. My travels with Julia Ingersoll have honestly been some of my lifelong highlights, and I can't wait to pack up my watercolors and biking shorts for my next adventure with her.”
–Patricia, NY
“Just some of the reasons that I am an avid Julia trip-taker are the heart, depth and joy that she puts in to every trip. She doesn’t “phone it in”, ever. Even trips that are repeats for me are different each time. She works hard to tailor it to the specific group so that it seems custom just for us.
She tweaks it to find just the right guides, rides, shops and views. Her trips attract wonderful people! She makes everyone feel welcome and included. I love that the accommodations are unique and off the tourist circuit and run by people with passion for their jobs and full of warmth.
The yoga is the best- hands down! I love that it, too, is tailored to the group and location with references to history, culture, gods, goddesses, philosophers and poets. Julia seeks out phenomenal food! I could really go on and on and on but I wanted to send this off. Heart, depth and joy!!!! And your trips feed my soul.”
–Amy, IL
“I always feel like the retreat has been created just for me. Julia knows what people are interested in….whether it’s art, history, mythology….food, wine , activities, swimming, cycling, yoga, a little shopping. You are catered to. You can delve into what you have passion for while on the retreat.
The activities we engage in are seamlessly organized. It’s like you are going out for a bike ride with your pals, except someone has created a fabulous experience for you by organizing every detail in an iconic yet undiscovered location and you just enjoy!
You have been brought to amazing places and people by a person with genuine knowledge and passion of the cultures and places and activities. Genuine. Genuine knowledge. Genuine passion.
You go to places where maybe many tour groups go to, BUT you get a deeper, local experience. I can’t explain how she does it. So that’s why I go again and again. It’s a vacation with friends and you are there to relax and enjoy and the person who organized the trip has created the genuine experience for you to take part in.
The reason I keep coming back is because I feel like I’m going on a trip with a group of friends, including Julia. That is what happens! You make friends with the other wonderful people who also keep coming back. It never feels like an organized tour group. We gather for meals, we socialize, we take off on bike rides, we visit historical sites, we relax on a beach, we meet local folks and become friends with them too and look forward to seeing them again next time.
-Juli Trout
“Energy. Light. Rest. Renewal. Appreciation. Laughter. Acceptance. Beauty. Joy. Camaraderie. Friendship. Lasting. Relaxation. Love…..
Adjectives that come to mind that make up the energy that is felt from the inside out. The gratitude that is left and that lingers long after.
These are the feelings – the soul experience that is felt long after a Julia Ingersoll journey to self.
Some come for fun—the journey—the adventure. Some come for relaxation and rejuvenation. Some come to experience the world for the first time on their own. All leave with a deeper appreciation of the present moment wherever in the world they may be.
Julia’s trips are different. They are deep, and special at an energetic level that is personal to all that have the opportunity be part of her beautiful adventures.
Julia has exquisite attention to detail yet is at ease with every part of the journey. Her welcoming spirit puts all at ease. She combines her experience as an athlete and artist to offer adventure and beauty to every activity.
The travel groups are small which gives all the chance to get to know one another. Julia has an in-depth knowledge of the history, language, and art of every country and village she visits—this adds extra charm and comfort--just knowing you are in warm hands that will guide you during your journey. How delightful it is to be welcomed by local shop owners, artisans, and restaurateurs because they have come to know Julia’s warm smile over the years.
Perhaps a Julia Ingersoll trip is not for everyone; however, if you would like to have the in-depth experience of a lifetime that will touch your soul and bring a smile to your face because of all the beautiful memories shared with new friends, then give yourself a gift to nourish your soul and consider a trip with Julia Ingersoll. You will be delighted that you did.”
–E.J., FL
“My best vacations are my Julia trips – I’ve been on five so far! Each one is an amazing immersion to a gorgeous country we get to experience with such exquisite planning and insight. Incredible food! Lovely people who are so friendly and gracious. The nicest people that I have met in Europe. It is one of the most beautiful places to practice yoga!”
– Jeanne, NJ
“I’ve done a lot of traveling in my life, both for pleasure and as a business executive – and traveling with Julia is like nothing else. Her passion, enthusiasm, knowledge and overall leadership are so unique and so appreciated. The way I describe her retreats to friends is: ‘You gotta do just one and then you’ll be hooked’.”
– Holly, NH
“This is the most amazing trip!! It's guaranteed to change your life for the better! A lifetime of wonderful memories!!! Sign up for this trip!”
– Jaime, NJ
“What makes your retreats so special is you. Your voice, your history of experience with the places you bring people, your knowledge and perspective, and the magic groups of people you bring together.”
– Christine, CA
“My heart has expanded three sizes after a week in your company. You truly spark so much lightness and play. I realize I need to give the other yogins credit as well, but being on this retreat was such a privilege. I particularly enjoyed learning new ways to decompress and find my center through mantra and yoga. Thank you so much for being such an advocate for humanity and for making each and every person you spend time with realize their true potential.”
– Karen, CA
“I am over the moon that I get to participate in another dreamy Julia trip by myself. I absorb so much energy and life and creativity and self-insight when I spend time with you and the fabulous people that you introduce me to.”
– Patricia, NY
“Julia’s trips are an adventure, with someone very trustworthy to lead you, off the beaten path, through the cultural innards of a place, to meet real people and see authentic things in nature and eat exquisite local foods, plus move your body, in yoga, walking, dancing, swimming — whatever the surroundings offer. Plus there’s a gorgeous, luxurious place to stay, all the travel arrangements are made, and there are multiple curated shopping opportunities!!
For us Power Moms, this is heavenly—we turn over our lives for a few sweet days to Julia to lead us, and we just put down our planners and our reins, and all there is left to do is breathe and learn and move and enjoy. And remember what carpe diem is all about.”
—Amy Mertz Brown
“The organization and leadership are amazing - every single planned outing has been carefully thought out - from restaurants to spa visits to sights that not just anyone would pick. You also plan for the unexpected and are a truly lovely, kind person - anyone would want to be your friend!
I came home and wanted to know when I could book the next one! I ohmmmed for the first time. It was a magical experience just being in Puglia and biking where the ancient romans walked. I learned a lot about the local food from the area, some roman history.
The yoga was amazing. I travel a lot, so I know what I’m talking about. You get to be yourself- no need to try to impress anyone!”
-Lizzie Dudley
“Best. Trip. Ever!!!!
– Eileen, NJ
Yoga Reviews
“We love how thoughtful you are in accommodating our interests, needs and limitations, pushing us just the right amount, blending the practical and spiritual and keeping it super interesting and fun.”
– Pamela, Isabel, and Charlotte, CA
“Thank you for all the brilliance you bring to your classes. Thank you again for the fabulous class today. I so appreciate you as a teacher and all that you bring into each practice...the sequence, the theme, the inquiries, the quote, and the poems and most of all your wisdom. You are a gem!”
– Jovinna Chan, CA
“I come because you bring fun and an energy and a lightness I don’t get from other teachers. I feel like you walk around living your yoga, without being overly spiritual – you’re very grounded and connected to the earth – I mean, next thing and you’re buckling on a helmet and riding off on your bike. Or eating chocolate cake! I like a vigorous practice because I feel better when I move my body hard – with proper limits for me. I love the precision, the focus you bring. I learn to strengthen where I’m weak and shift the work more efficiently to my whole body rather than stressing one area like my lower back. I move my body in ways I wouldn’t normally do it.