Join the adventure today.

The Ice Axe team, with a decade of Antarctic expedition experience, brings their passion and knowledge of unique landings and first ski descents to your Antarctic voyage.

Sail and Ski the Antarctic Peninsula

Yacht Australis

November & December 2010

Join Ice Axe Expeditions for a ski-driven journey to the Antarctic Peninsula. In November 2010, Ice Axe is offering 10 or 14-day itineraries aboard the Yacht Australis. An exclusive 8 passenger ski-mountaineering experience in the Southern Ocean’s most dramatic amphitheater of snow, ice and wildlife.  This intimate adventure is designed to maximize exploration and ski objectives amidst the stunning terrain of the Peninsula’s most attractive peaks.

We keep 4:1 client to guide ratio to maximize safety.

Join Ice Axe Expeditions November 2011 for a unique itinerary to the vast and remote wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula. Our trips and itineraries are customized for those with an adventure-driven spirit; providing our clients with a unique opportunity to trek, ski and snowboard several of the White Continent’s untamed peaks. Journey deep into the rugged landscape of one of earth’s last frontiers while enjoying the convenience, safety and comfort of the Clipper Adventurer expedition ship. Sail past Cape Horn, across the Drake Passage and along the Antarctic Peninsula and join an exclusive group of intrepid travelers inspired by the legacy of Antarctic discovery.

Experience true modern exploration as you travel to a land covered by glaciers, never conquered by man. Travel through alleys of icebergs and study the blue mystery of such extraordinary formations of nature. Explore harbors and bays while surrounded by clouds of seabirds and become enveloped in the raw magnificence. Witness the profound beauty and isolation of a land covered by ice. Listen to glaciers calve and observe with wonder minke whales, black-browed albatross, snow petrels, penguins and seals. Ponder the complexity of the fragile and dynamic ecosystem of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Daily shore landings, lectures and zodiac excursions will cover the history, biology, geology and politics of our Southernmost continent. Actively explore this frontier or contemplate the social structure of a penguin colony-this once-in-a-lifetime trip is for you. Packages start at $6990.

Itinerary– Yacht Australis

November 13th to December 5th 2010

23 days, 22 nights. Sail  to and from Ushuaia, Argentina to the Antarctic Peninsula.

November 13. Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina. Welcome dinner and orientation. Overnight in  Ushuaia.

November 14. Day 2:  Ski Martial Glacier with team.  Overnight in  Ushuaia.

November 15. Day 3: Breakfast at hotel. Board the ship and set sail down the Beagle Channel.

November 15-18. Day 3-6: Cross the Drake Passage. Sperm, fin, and humpback whales, along with skies of seabirds will accompany our journey. Arrive at Deception Island’s volcanic crater in the afternoon of Day 6 for a hike.

November 19. Day 7: Ski objectives at Brambant Island.

November 20. Day 8: Ski objectives at Neko Harbor.

November 21. Day 9: Ski and trekking objectives in Paradise Bay. Zodiac Excursions. Visit penguin rookery and Almirante Brown Station.

November 22. Day 10: Lemaire Channel/ Mt. Scott/ Mt. Demaria/Mt. Mill ski descents. Visit the Ukrainian Vernadsky scientific station. Killer whale and leopard seal sightings.

November 23: Day 11: Additional exploration of Lemaire Channel/ Mt. Scott/ Mt. Demaria/Mt. Mill ski descents.

November 24: Day 12 Iceberg Alley and Graham Coastland.

November 25. Day 13: Ski and trekking objectives at Anvers and Wienke Islands. Port Lockroy scientific base and museum. Visit gentoo and adelie penguin habitat.

November 26. Day 14: Wienke and Anvers objectives.

November 27. Day 15: Ski objectives at Crystal Sound.

November 28. Day 16: Ski objectives at Cuverville Island.

November 29 Day 17: Ronge Island/Mt. Britannia. Visit Penguin rookery at Georges Point.

November 30. Day 18: Additional obejectives at Ronge Island/Mt Britannia

December 1. Day 19: Ski objectives at Livingston Island.

December 2. Day 20: Morning ski objectives at King George Island.

December 2-5. Day 20-23: Sail Drake Passage; pass the dramatic cliffs of Cape Horn.

December 5. Day 23: Disembark Yacht Australis in Ushuaia, Argentina.

**Flexibility is a must for all Antarctic travel. This program is subject to change throughout the journey depending on ice, weather, flight availability and local conditions.**

2010 Yacht Australis Pricing and FAQ

Dates

November 13th to December 5th 2010
** These dates are subject to change by one or two days. Contact our office before confirming your flights**
23 days, 22 nights. Sail  to and from Ushuaia, Argentina to the Antarctic Peninsula.

How do I reserve my trip?

• Contact The Best of Both Adventures at 787-823-0610 or contact us via email at info@bestofbothadventures.com
• You may place your deposit via check, wire transfer, money order or with a Visa or MasterCard credit card. A 5% service charge applies for credit card processing.
• If you mail a check with your trip application, your place will not be reserved until the check has cleared through our bank.
• Please Note; a 50% deposit is required upon booking to reserve your place. The final balance is payable 95 days prior to your departure date.

Cruise Cost includes:

• 2 nights pre-expedition shared hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, Argentina. Room includes a continental breakfast.
• Group  Welcome Dinner in Ushuaia
• Ski guide while in the Antarctic.
• Group transfers from the hotel to the ship on embarkation and from the ship to the airport on disembarkation and all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges.
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner on board the ship.
• Shore landings and Zodiac excursions as permitted by weather and local conditions.
• Expedition certificate.
• Comprehensive pre-departure information package

Not Included:

• Airfares to or from your home city, whether on scheduled or charter flights.* Departure flights should be booked as changeable or you should be aware of what change fees may apply. Travel in the Antarctic can be highly unpredictable and flights returning from the Peninsula can be delayed which may affect your international itinerary. Ice Axe is not responsible for any change fees due to unforeseen weather delays. Ice Axe staff will do our best to assist you in your travel arrangements should delays arise.
• Additional accommodations in Punta Arenas due to weather delays.
• Evacuation insurance.
• Passport and visa expenses.
• Any government arrival and departure airport taxes.
• Ski or trekking equipment.
• Any meals ashore with the exception of breakfast at the host hotel and the welcome dinner on the evening prior to departure.
• Baggage, cancellation and travel insurance (emergency medical and evacuation insurance is mandatory. Ice Axe can help you to arrange this insurance if you need assistance. It is generally around $125.00 per person).
• Excess baggage charges.
• Alcoholic beverages onboard the ship or at the hotel.
• Telecommunications charges or the customary gratuity at the end of the voyage for guides and yacht personnel.

Do I need previous sailing experience?

No. The ship has an extremely experienced Captain and first mate who will operate the yacht. You may at times be asked to assist with various operations during the voyage, but you will be instructed before hand by the captain.

Will we be camping?

No.  The Australis will be our floating base camp and the team will return to sleep there each night.

What is the weather like?

The weather in Antarctica is extremely unpredictable. Heavy rainfall is unusual; strong winds are relatively common, so it is important to pack accordingly. The average temperatures on the Antarctic Peninsula during the summer months range from approximately 23º – 41º F. The weather in Ushuaia is a bit warmer but also has the wind and rain characteristics of the Antarctic weather systems.

You say the weather can be pretty unpredictable. What happens if there are delays?

If any trip must be delayed due to bad weather, cancelled or delayed transportation, sickness or any other situation for which Ice Axe Expeditions cannot make provisions, all costs incurred during such delays must be borne by trip members.

What if I need to cancel?

All requests for cancellations must be received in writing. Cancellations received up to 150 days prior to departure are refunded less an administrative fee of $500 per person. If cancellation is received between 149 and 95 days prior to departure, the deposit is forfeited. Please note that for cancellations received within 94 days prior to departure, all deposits and tariffs are forfeited. If cancellation occurs within the 94-day period and full payment has not yet been received, the full penalty will still apply and unpaid monies are due immediately. For these and other reasons mentioned below, you are strongly encouraged to obtain trip cancellation insurance. Prices quoted are based on group participation and no refunds will be made for any part of the program in which you choose not to participate.

Of course, it is also time to include self-care, an important part of functioning in our fast-paced world. A relaxing retreat before the blustery winter looms will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. The Best of Both Surf and Yoga Women’s retreat offers the luxury and adventure one needs where the sun is shining, and the average temperature of is a comfortable 78 degrees.

In the fall, plane ticket prices are affordable, allowing you the best deal for booking early. Airlines understand the rush for vacation bookings in the winter seasons, and increase the prices as a result. According to good old Benjamin Franklin, “people don’t prepare to fail, they fail to prepare.” So jump the gun before everyone else plans their holiday trips and book dates for the surf and yoga retreat now! Remember the feeling of the post-holiday rut accompanied with dreary winter days. Beat the rush of the slush and book a retreat now! You will thank yourself for planning ahead and have something to look forward to during the months of frost-bite and flurry.

Book by the end of November and enjoy $300 off your winter get-way. The Best of Both Adventures for Women Retreat will take care of all your vacation essentials including: surf lessons, yoga classes, massage, complimentary menu, and much more. Escape to Puerto Rico for a rejuvenating and healing adventure you won’t want to miss.

Fresh updates on the Best of Both Adventures Retreat location! Picture this: In the peace of the lush, green atmosphere, one can fully immerse themselves in the relaxing sounds of the breaking ocean waves. Walk along the soft sandy beach, and one could find themselves unaccompanied as far as the eye can see. Tucked back into a hidden garden, privacy is achieved while maintaining intimacy solely between the guests and staff.

In addition to the large bedrooms and wrap around sunlit balconies, enjoy a dip in the refreshing swimming pool that will be added in late September located only steps away from the sea. Swim and snorkel along with tropical fish in the warm shallow Caribbean waters outside the doorstep. Spend the day surfing Puerto Rico’s famous surf spots or enjoy some of the added adventures, including kayaking, hiking, or a trip to the waterfalls!

The expansive, private, ocean side deck is the perfect location to practice yoga while connecting with nature. The flowing breeze allows one to unwind and truly become present in the moment. Inhale the salty air and feel the rhythm of the breath flow with the tide while practicing in the shaded comfort of tropical trees. Our registered yoga teacher will offer additional guided meditation at the wish of individual students for a low rate in between reg classes.

In addition to the previous retreat activities, a sunset sail is included in the package as an opportunity to socialize, share stories over wine, and dine gourmet appetizers under the glow of the vibrant sunset. Experiencing a Best of Both surf and yoga retreat is truly a revitalizing and rejuvenating indulgence that one must truly see for themselves!

After a long hot summer, school is back in session and our teachers are working hard. Preparing for the new school year, student, tests, and grades can be draining on the soul. What better way to treat yourself before mid-terms with a relaxing surf and yoga retreat?  We are offering a “Back to School” deal including a $500 discount towards The Best of Both Adventures Women’s Surf and Yoga Retreat in Puerto Rico! Let someone else do all the planning: from healthy gourmet chef-prepared meals, nourishing massage, transportation, restorative ocean side yoga classes to exciting outdoor excursions, all with in the company of like-minded women like yourself. Puerto Rico’s Sandy beaches, calming ocean waves, and the golden sunshine of the Caribbean are yours to enjoy. Teachers, book before the end of November 2009 in order to take advantage of this special offer. Check out www.bestofbothadventures.com for dates. Offer good towards teachers with valid school identification.

From your Yoga teacher

Hello Ladies!

This is your yoga instructor, Shannon, wishing you a warm hello from Puerto Rico. I am so excited for the new retreats to start, ushering a winter season full of new friends, experiences, and memories.  Sharing yoga is one of my passions, and I can not wait to enjoy it with you.

In case you’re new to the yoga scene, the practice features a lot more than just exercise.  Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word, “Yuj”, meaning to unite. According to Swami Satchidananda, the guru my yoga school followed, “people think yoga always means standing on the head or doing some pose. But, the aim of yoga is to calm the mind. That’s why it’s called integral yoga-because we integrate every thing: body, mind, and spirit.” In yoga, one tries to move in the poses and feel something deeper, experimenting to see just what will happen. I want to focus on strengthening and stretching the muscles used in surfing, as well as finding poses that will bring relaxation.

I look forward to meeting each and one of the women who come for the Best of Both Adventures retreat.  Through new adventures I hope to learn as much from you as you can from me! I’ll leave you with a little phrase which simply means, “the light in me recognizes the light in you.”

Namaste,

Shannon Lyons

A Special Note from Dez…

The Economy and Our Retreats
We have been conducting retreats for over 5 years now, Here at Best of Both , we feel we are doing important work, and that women need the personal power and strength they get from our retreats, now more than ever! We are empowered by the women who understand and support our mission.

Because of the current state of the economy, we have shortened the number upcoming retreats. However, we are offering 5 fantastic retreats for you to choose from in 2009- 2010. We’ve put together many incentives packages and options for women to encourage them to plan ahead and look forward to a more positive future. As always, we have an Early-Bird Discount, Teacher Discounts, and an Easy-Payment-Plan to assist you in making attendance a reality. It also helps us meet our obligations for a successful retreat.

Thinking About It?
If you are interested, please register early rather than later to reserve. If you are thinking about it, please let us know and we will alert you before we come to the close of our registration.

Getting Good Deals on Flights
when the economy gets stressed we have seen prices to PR go down in effort to help the island communities. This past year some tickets were $200 round trip from NY. Good for our retreat!

Money tight? Don’t know how to make this a reality?
If you are a person with little means, but dream of attending, don’t give up!

The Power of A Gift
If you are a person of means, and can make a “gift” to a woman who you know would profit physically, spiritually, and emotionally from participating in our retreat, please consider making a donation in either part or full tuition. It can make a powerful difference in a women’s life, as well as the greater good. This kind of gesture has been done on many occasions over the years. During these stressful times we do need to be aware our sisters may need a helping hand.

We have had women’s groups raise money to send a member. We’ve had fathers send their daughters, wives, and mother in laws. We had one woman give it as a reward for finding another woman’s diamond ring! We have given retreats away as fundraisers for accident victims. There have been many beneficial and rewarding occasions!

Aside from the obvious that when you give to others it helps them to manifest their dreams and desires, there is also a secondary benefit. When we give to others we are AUTOMATICALLY placed in a state of ‘alignment.’ When we are in alignment with the Universe, everything flows to us EASILY and EFFORTLESSLY. Nothing will put you in a state of alignment FASTER than assisting other people to achieve their dreams and desires.

Dez Bartelt, founder of Best of Both Adventures for women

Put on your traveling shoes and prepare to get away with Best of Both! If you’re ready for a great escape with great friends, there’s no better vacation destination then the tropics.  So…get on the phone or e-mail your girlfriend and say let’s get away. It’s time to make plans, pack your luggage and have a great time together!

In order to take advantage of this special offer, you must book and pay in full no later than October 1st 2009. To receive the complimentary package, both the paid and complimentary bookings must attend the same retreat without cancelation.  Please note-This offer does not apply if you have already booked a vacation with us during 2009 or 2010. 

5 reasons to start packing:

1. Best of Both Surf and Yoga taps your adventurous spirit in a active tropical setting.
2. Our retreats are designed for women by women. We organize every detail of your trip while you relax and have fun.
3. You will enjoy good company with like-minded women where you can be yourself and laugh. Relax or just be a carefree woman with no worries for 5 amazing days.
4. Enjoy the freedom to do what you want when you want. There’s no pressure or competitiveness, but plenty of support.
5. Retreats don’t change our lives as much as they change    where we stand in relationship to our lives—and our capacity to see the hidden possibilities there.”

De-stress

De-stress, refresh and rejuvenate in a nurturing, empowering and supportive environment. Explore the transformative power of self-care and nourish your body and soul. Take time to slow down, nurture your inner life and emotional well-being and live in the present moment. Enjoy quiet reflection and get in touch with your needs and desires. Women of all ages are welcome! A Best of Both Surf and Yoga retreat is especially great for women in career or life transition.

Stress is internal, which explains why it can wreak havoc on your health. It feels awful…it’s the sense that you’re not in control. The easiest way to mitigate its effect is to take charge of the one and only thing you have the power to control…YOU, and let go of what you can’t control. The beauty of this recipe is that by taking control of your life, external or outside things will change in response to your internal changes. Here are 10 steps to de-stress for your present and future:

1. Heal yourself.
Dr. Bruce McEwen, who wrote The End of Stress As We Know It, suggests that eliminating stress comes right from your grandmother’s journal. He says the most effective steps you can take are the simplest: exercise, a healthy diet, regular sleep, moderate to minimal alcohol intake, and no smoking. This, he notes, is the most sophisticated, up to the minute, cutting edge science available!

2. Get organized.
Physical clutter reminds us of things that need to be done and that’s stressful. Remove your physical clutter and you’ll eradicate your mental clutter, plus you’ll feel energized. Please go to http://topten.org/public/AG/AG306.html for a simple organizing solution that will work on any space.

3. Set boundaries.
Boundaries act as a filter to keep you safe from the hurtful behavior of others while allowing in the love, support and nurturing actions we all need. Set your boundaries by: (a) determining what others cannot do to you or in your presence and (b) sharing this information respectfully with anyone who is stepping over one of your boundaries.

4. Take time for yourself.
Put together a list of all the things you love to do but haven’t regularly made time to do. Put your list in priority order and enter the top five to seven items into your daily calendar. Your list may include things as simple as journaling, reading a great book, taking a bubble bath, yoga, etc. You’ll be more successful getting to these activities when you give them a time and place on your calendar.

5. Be positive.
William James, the father of modern psychology said, "The greatest discovery of my generation is that man can alter his life simply by altering his attitude of mind." In other words, what you say and what you tell yourself impact the present and create your future. Love yourself and use the power of positive words, pleasing thoughts and affirming beliefs to live the life you want to live.

6. Work in a career you love.
If you’re like most people, you spend the majority of your waking hours at work. You’ll know you’re in the right profession when: you wake up anxious to go to work, you want to do your best daily, and you know your work is important.

7. Surround yourself with a supportive community.
You are who you spend time with. Hang out with people who love and accept you just the way you are, are interested in you (not what you can do for them), lift you up (not wear you down), solve problems quickly, don’t gossip or complain, and know how to have fun. Anything is possible with the right support.

8. Learn to say, "No."
We’ve all been influenced by people in our life who tell us we should do this or we ought to do that. As a result, we may end up living a life that others have decided for us versus living the life we want. So, the next time you think of something you ought to do or someone else suggests you should do, take a breath and ask yourself if it’s something you want to do. If not, just say, "no" or "no thank you." When you say no to things you don’t care to do, you are saying yes to you and this will free up your time and energy for the things you choose to do. Bottom line – you’ll be happier.

9. Zap tolerations.
A toleration is something that irritates you and drains your energy because it needs to be done, fixed, removed, or changed. If you’re like most people you may be tolerating 100 or more things! Put together a list of all the things that bug you, e.g. a dripping faucet, money concerns, your weight, shopping and running errands, not enough time, computer files out of control, your hair, a room that needs to be painted, etc. When your list is complete, group like items and see if one solution will eliminate multiple tolerations. For example, if you have piles of clothing in each bedroom, dirty windows and dust bunnies on your floor, hiring a housekeeper will zap all three tolerations. Line up a housekeeper, today. Then, commit to spending a chunk of time each week to zap your other tolerations. If you have a toleration that you don’t have the skill or know-how to fix, consider calling an expert or seek out a skilled professional to trade services with.

10. Get your needs met.
A "need" is not an option, it is something you must have to function fully. It is differentiated from a "want" in that a want is optional. Unmet needs can drive you to distraction and worse. Determine what needs you have that aren’t being met, if any, and then take the appropriate action to get them fulfilled. Example: If you’ve taken a big hit and are going through a career transition, ask a good friend to call you two or three times a week to check in with you and give you support. Other options include calling your own voice mail and leaving supportive messages or hiring a coach who specializes in career transitions. When you acknowledge and satisfy your needs, you will be free to focus on other areas of your life.

If you want to be happier and more successful, focus on the things you have the power to control.

Life has changed

 Life has changed dramatically for many in the six months as we have watched our economy lose stability. Many friends and family member careers have been put on hold while their homes have less value than they did last year at this time. A trivial gift seems unworthy of both giving and receiving. It is said that when we evoke abundance in our lives and open ourselves up to receiving what is offered to us, the cycle of giving and receiving continues in a virtuous cycle. Putting more thought into what we give will create abundance in what we receive.

Best of Both Adventures for women often sees friends, family and co-workers coming on trips together. A great gift in itself is the thought and planning that goes into committing to a trip that will bring fulfillment long after it is finished.

A great way to make the planning easier this year would be to let Best of Both plan your Puerto Rico Surf and Yoga Adventure. If deep down inside you know that this coming winter would be a good time to get away, then let the planning begin with restorative yoga, tropical beaches and surfing in warm Caribbean waters. Some of the contents of this Newsletter article are from BOB past newsletters.  All contents come from past, present, and future staff and friends. All new and past newsletter text and pictures and web design is copyrighted by Best of Both Adventures Inc.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a bargain destination and vacation packages can really help you save while relieving the stress.

A Best of Both Puerto Rico Surf and Yoga package is a great way to go!

Additional reasons why:

Now airfare from the states is very reasonable to Puerto Rico. For example a plane ticket from New York to Aguadilla is around $278 round trip (about $320 with taxes and fees). From Chicago to Aguadilla would cost more like $348 (around $400 with tax and fees).

Transportation from Aguadilla to the Best of Both Adventures is included in the package. If traveling without the package you can expect a rental car to be $350 for the week, plus fuel at about $75 for a total of $425. But not with Best of Both that’s included

What about food? Everyone needs to eat! All meals are included in the 5 day – 4 night Best of Both Adventure. Gourmet meals prepared with locally grown products and a true taste of Caribbean cuisine. If you are traveling and need to eat out you can expect to spend for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Now, some people can come to the island and just be satisfied with sitting on the beach watching the surfers. But there are those of us watching who desire to give the sport a try. Let’s add in $100/day for surf lessons. We will then feel the need for a restorative yoga class at $20/class and how about a massage to work on the tired muscles from the surf lesson. That’s another $100. without tax and gratuity! Remember that’s all included in Best of Both

Traveling to Puerto Rico requires no passport. No long lines passing through customs. It is one of the most economical vacation destinations and you can see above the comparison of booking a trip with Best of Both Adventures vs. traveling on your own.

Off the top it is easy to see that you would save with the Best of Both trip. More to consider is that in the comparison the food you would be eating would be mostly restaurant meals. After 5 days of eating breakfast, lunch and dinner at a restaurant your body may be in need of a detox. Best of Both Adventure meals are carefully prepared in a healthy, delicious way to restore balance to the body. If a fair meal price comparison were to be done and you were to eat privately prepared meals you would need to add spend quite a lot

The daily yoga sessions are designed to target the muscles used in surfing and to help you develop your own practice to return home with. Our instructors are trained to personally assist your needs and to help you find a yoga routine that will fit into your lifestyle. This is not something you would get from just any class!

We could go on and on about the beauty and tranquility of our villas, the friendliness of the staff, etc. But most importantly we cannot put a price value on the relationships that develop from these adventures. Some travel with friends or family and some travel alone, but each and every surf and yoga trip, new friendships develop and much is learned from sharing this experience together as women!

Owner Dez Bartelt flew in during the first trip on March 4th on her way to her round the world adventure.  She had time to meet the ladies and brief them on her next leg of her trip.
You can follow Dez on her travel blog at http://www.bestofbothadventures.com/dez.  Here is what the news has to say about her adventure!

PRESS RELEASE
Adventure Tour Leader Dez Bartelt to Document Women’s Travel Issues on World Trip Bartelt Seeks to Educate Females About Safety and Health Challenges with Six Month Trip

March 9 – Travel can be one of life’s most exciting, liberating and educational experiences.  Discovering new places, meeting interesting people and enjoying the pleasures of destinations are what make travel experience so rewarding.  Unfortunately, many women, from students to seniors, faceseveral health and safety challenges while on the road.

Dez Bartelt, founder of Best of Beth Adventures for Women, an adventure tour group for women, will embark on a six-month around the world trip to document the issues that women face while traveling and how to overcome
them.

“I have been traveling for more than 30 years, to some amazing and crazy countries,” says Bartelt. “I have dealt with just about everything, from men throwing stones at me in Pakistan to French men telling me to get off their mountain when I was climbing. I never let that stop me from traveling or doing what I wanted to do. If anything it made me stronger. However, it would have been a big help if someone could have given me a little more insight.”

Bartelt’s trip kicks off in Aspen, CO on March 31, 2009.  Then Tahoe on the 31st for 6 days .She will then head to the North and South Island’s of New Zealand, Australia, and destinations in Asia including Bali and Singapore. Bartelt’s itinerary also includes European destinations such as Scotland, Greece, Germany, England, Spain, Austria, and Italy. Her trip will conclude in Latin America, with the countries of Chile, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador. Her tentative end date is September 24, 2009.

Bartelt will provide information and advice about topics such as using public transportation and credit cards, preventing jet lag, and handling sexual harassment. She will also interview women travelers such as Layne Beachley, a seven time world women’s surfing champion and Kay Kottee, who sailed round the world by herself 21 years ago.

Bartelt will document her experiences and advice on her travel blog, located at http://www.bestofbothadventures.com/dez, in addition to contributing original content to Colorado-based Womenof.com and Girls By Design, Smallville actress Kristin Kreuk and producer Kendra Voth’s website for empowering teenage girls. Bartelt also plans on releasing a book about the trip next year.

It comes to be that each group of women traveling to Puerto Rico for an adventure creates their own bond and in the case of the tropical winds of March the energy blew in and created wonderful friendships and relationships that are sure to last a lifetime. Memories created together of morning yoga classes with the sounds of surf creating a cosmic voice to calm the mind. Splashing around in the water, paddling through that same surf to master the skills required for the sport of surfing. Sitting around the dinner table enjoying healthy, restorative meals and sharing life stories. This is the spirit of women as they connect and flourish in the environment.
As the month continued and the second trip attendees arrived the spirit was renewed by the hope of good things do happen in life. Winner of the Women’s Adventure Magazine and Best of Both Adventure Contest Kathy Nelson attended the March 18th trip. Kathy shared with the women the story of entering the “Get me out of Here” contest and all shared their stories of what led them to an adventure trip to Puerto Rico. Everyone leaving with the idea that winners are all around us! Despite the economic situation of the world.

Best of Both is offering this substantial discount to encourage you to treat yourself to a restorative week of fun after the long, hard winter!

Call now to reserve your space! 787-823-0610

Not long ago I purchased a t-shirt with a small acoustic guitar on the front with the words “pick me�? typed below. I thought to myself as I pondered the purchase that I often hear my inner voice saying just these words. “Pick me “ to win the vacation, new car or even a raffle at a non-profit fundraising event. “ Pick me “ to do something to change my course just a little bit, to make me feel special and rewarded for all the little things I do in life. Don’t we all have that feeling from time to time. That secret knowledge that we deserve a little break?

I met a woman recently who won a Harley Davidson motorcycle in a mayonnaise sweepstakes. Not just a little Harley, but a big one. I asked her what she did when she won and she said “I took a motorcycle driving course and learned to ride�?. She then went on to tell me that the motorcycle course was one of the scariest adventures of her life. Driving the bike in the pouring rain, knowing that if it spilled over she would not pass the course and then would not be able to drive the bike that she so deservingly won. Her tailbone ached for weeks as well as other muscles from holding on for dear life. Which leads me to how I met her as a student in my yoga class! The point was that she accepted the prize deservingly and went out and learned a new skill and felt proud of what she had done. Without being “picked�? for this prize her life would not have taken such a turn!

As I poured over the entries for the Best of Both Adventures for Women’s “Get Me Out of Here�? giveaway featured in Women’s Adventure Magazine, I was struck by the reality of what life is like for many of us right now. It is a bit tougher than it has been in awhile. We all deserve a bit of a break from the realities of life. We are experiencing a world of less jobs, more expenses, deteriorating health of our elderly loved ones. Just to mention a few of the topics that were touched on in the “reasons to get me out of here�? giveaway.

I want to take a moment to thank each and every entry in the contest. Your stories and hardships brought both laughter and heartbreak. One thing I know for sure is that the “sisterhood�? of women is strong. Keep reaching for the dreams and hold steadfast through the tough times. Keep practicing yoga, surfing, getting outside and making the most of life.

As I wear my “pick me�? shirt around I feel proud to have the inner voice printed on the front of my shirt. It is a chance to express my desire to be recognized for all that I do in life. Knowing that by expressing the reasons I should be picked, both internally and externally I am giving myself a great gift. The gift of realizing who I am and what I deserve. That is the first big step in changing the course of this road of life that we are on!

We still have room in our March and April Puerto Rico trips. Reserve your space now for a wonderful adventure!

“Congratulations Kathy Nelson from Yelm, WA” the winner of the Best of Both Adventures and Women’s Adventure Magazine “Get Me Out of Here” Giveaway.

Here are some helpful hints to keep your sanity during the countdown to the New Year!

1. Count to ten! Also known as meditation.

If you find yourself ready to scream in traffic (or at the kids or your boss) slowly count to ten while breathing in and out of your nose. Connecting the breath to your body will relax your mind. I guarantee it!

2. Sing! Also known as chanting! Holiday music can soothe the soul. Repeating soothing words also known as mantras or calming sounds like with singing helps us to get in touch with our life force and will balance our world in a time where we may feel quite unbalanced.

3. Volunteer! Also known as Karma! Give a little of your time without expectation of a reward. Put together some extras from your pantry and drop if off at a church or food bank to help those in need during the season. Giving will help you to realize all that you have and the selfless action will take the emphasis off of your “list�? of chores for a while.

4. Dance! Also known as energy! While that Holiday music is playing, get up and dance. Activate the chakras in your body by loosening up and awakening your inner energy, releasing blockages and creating positive vibrations through the whole body. Plus you will be burning a few calories and can enjoy more Holiday sweets!

5. Rest! Also known as relaxation! Play dead, literally. Lie down on a mat or blanket, let your entire body relax. Close your eyes, listen to your breath. Listen to the noises around you and then let them go. Let the thoughts of your mind enter and then release them. Try to spend just five minutes (longer if you can) within your own body. The effects will last into the New Year and beyond!

As women and humans in general, we tend to be hard on ourselves and when busy times like the Holidays arrive, where we are giving to all of those around us, we feel guilty for stepping out of our fitness, yoga or relaxation routine. The good news is that by practicing the hints above you are doing more good than you may realize.

As a yoga teacher I have learned that the principles of yoga are often simplified and the benefits far outreach the physical effects practiced in the classroom or studio. For example, by performing the rituals above you are in fact performing the essential practices of Hatha Yoga.

Beyond the physical practice of poses, or asanas, practiced in yoga these techniques teach us to relax and release physical limitations which automatically help us release our mental limitations and blockages. So by singing and dancing and breathing, we are practicing the essential practices of yoga and our mental and physical fitness just takes on a new look for a couple of weeks!

Happy Holidays!

Life has changed dramatically for many in the past few months. We have watched our economy lose stability, many friends and family members careers and homes have less value than they did last year at this time. A trivial gift seems unworthy of both giving and receiving. It is said that when we evoke abundance in our lives and open ourselves up to receiving what is offered to us, the cycle of giving and receiving continues in a virtuous cycle. Putting more thought into what we give will create abundance in what we receive.

The holidays are a time where purchase power is measured. There will be economic predictions based on the traffic at the big box stores the day following Thanksgiving. The point being that more thought is going into Holiday giving this year and therefore more meaningful gifts will be given.

Best of Both Adventures for women often sees friends, family and co-workers coming on trips together. A great gift in itself is the thought and planning that goes into committing to a trip that will bring fulfillment long after it is finished.

A great way to make the planning easier this year would be to purchase a gift certificate for a Puerto Rico Surf and Yoga Adventure. Present one to your sister, mother or friend and the let the planning begin. Or ask for such a gift for yourself this season. If deep, down inside you know that this is the winter to get away, jump-start your year with restorative yoga, tropical beaches and surfing in warm Caribbean waters. Purchase a gift certificate for your self and stuff it in your stocking. You can make the travel plans after the busy season is over!

Gift Certificates available in amounts of $300, $500 or full value of trips. Please email for more information at
info@bestofbothadventures.com or call our office today 787-823-0610. Happy Holidays from the Best of Both Adventures Team!

Puerto Rico is a bargain destination and vacation packages can really help you save! Not to mention relieving the stress.

See the comparisons below and you will see how a Best of Both Puerto Rico Surf and Yoga package is a great way to go!

Now airfare from the states is very reasonable to Puerto Rico. For example a plane ticket from New York to Aguadilla is around $278 round trip (about $320 with taxes and fees). From Chicago to Aguadilla would cost more like $348 (around $400 with tax and fees).

Transportation from Aguadilla to the Best of Both Adventures is included in the package. If traveling without the package you can expect a rental car to be $350 for the week, plus fuel at about $75 for a total of $425.

Lodging in Puerto Rico at a beach front villa on average will cost $150-175/ night. We will take the middle and say that you could spend $160 plus tax for a total of about $688.

What about food, everyone needs to eat! All meals are included in the 5 day – 4 night Best of Both Adventure. Gourmet meals prepared with locally grown products and a true taste of Caribbean cuisine. If you are traveling and need to eat out you can expect to spend $10-15 for breakfast, $15 for lunch and $25-35 per person for dinner. So, saying you kept it on the low end, you need to budget $50 for food each day and that does not include drinks and snacks! We better figure another $20 for that making a total of $70 plus tax and gratuity which would make about $100 per day in food and drinks!

Now, some people can come to the island and just be satisfied with sitting on the beach watching the surfers. But there are those of us watching who desire to give the sport a try. Let’s add in $100/day for surf lessons. We will then feel the need for a restorative yoga class at $20/class and how about a massage to work on the tired muscles from the surf lesson , that’s another $70. We have just added $190 without tax and gratuity!

Traveling to Puerto Rico requires no passport. No long lines passing through customs. It is one of the most economical vacation destinations and below you will find a comparison of booking a trip with Best of Both Adventures vs. traveling on your own.

Let’s make this easy and compare below:

Off the top it is easy to see that you would save over $200 with the Best of Both trip. More to consider; in the comparison the food budgeted would be restaurant meals. After 5 days of eating breakfast, lunch and dinner at a restaurant your body may be in need of a detox. Best of Both Adventure meals are carefully prepared in a healthy, delicious way to restore balance to the body. If a fair meal price comparison were to be done and you were to eat privately prepared meals you would need to add at least $200 more dollars to the budget.

The daily yoga sessions are designed to target the muscles used in surfing and to help you develop your own practice to return home with. Our instructors are trained to personally assist your needs and to help you find a yoga routine that will fit into your lifestyle. This is not something you would get from just any class!

I could go on and on about the beauty and tranquility of our villas, the friendliness of the staff, etc. But most importantly I cannot put a price value on the relationships that develop from these adventures. Some travel with friends or family and some travel alone, but each and every surf and yoga trip, new friendships develop and much is learned from sharing this experience together as women!

Here are some helpful hints about your new outlook on the word exercise!

Yoga, Yoga, Yoga!

Yoga is the ultimate mind-body workout. The benefits are endless: it strengthens, tones and lengthens muscles. It improves circulation and promotes inner calm. Peace and cardio in the same move? That’s what makes it so great!

Sun Salutations can be performed anywhere you have room to hold out your arms! The Sun Salutation series is a total body workout designed to stretch, expand and contract all of your major muscle groups. Done daily (15 minutes will do) your body and spirit will show you the results! Feel free to email Michele at michele@bestofbothadventures.com for specific yoga postures and the sun salutation series.

Walking!

If gym classes don’t fit into your busy schedule a daily walk will do the job. Walking three miles burns as many calories as running three miles but with less impact on your joints. You can also use your walking time to clear your thoughts and renew your mind. A great stress reducer at hectic times like the holidays. If life is too busy to find time for a three-mile walk, start small by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking a little farther away from the door at the supermarket.

Remember, just a few minutes each day will make a tremendous difference in how you look and feel. Find time for yoga and walking and before long you will notice life feeling a little more peaceful!

8 Reasons to Get Away ‘08
By Founder of Best of Both Dez Bartelt

It’ll be 2009 before you know it. Time flies. Why don’t you find the time in 2009 to take a trip, better yet an Adventure like Best of Both Adventures Surf and Yoga!
Had enough madness? Then treat you to what you really want- an escape. An escape from reality with something you can bring back to the real world, a new or renewed yoga practice, the confidence built from learning to surf and the jumpstart on healthy eating for the new year! All can be found in an escape to Bali for our Surf and Yoga Retreat or one of many destinations.
2009 is the Year of the Rat. Why not sit out this rat race and relax? Book a trip now to have something to look forward to in the New Year! Take advantage of our last minuet deal to Italy save 10% http://www.bestofbothadventures.com/italy.htm
Sometimes less is more, even when it comes to family. A happy wife means a happy life. Take a bit of time for yourself. Best of Both Adventurers are women with families and careers. Share in the friendship with women who know how often others needs are put before ours! Recharge and renew your own health and spirit with a little time for you.
After all the long days in the office or at home, might you be craving something healthy? An adventure that recharges spirit and body may be just what the doctor ordered. Best of Both Adventures encompasses a renewing yoga practice with healthy yet delicious meals and the challenge of surfing all designed to provide you with a new charge on life! Take a look at some of our favorite recipes in the link below
http://www.bestofbothadventures.com/blog/
If you time your vacation just right, you might just avoid Spring Cleaning. Packing your bags and leaving the spring-cleaning behind to give yourself a cleansing experience. April in Puerto Rico is amazing. Join us for our spring deals Just $1900 per person www.bestofbothadventures.com
You can finish that ____________ (insert: novel, romance, project, etc.) you started last year so book your Best of Both Adventure today.
It will all be waiting when you get back.

Here are some Earth Wise Tips from the Best of Both Team:
By Juli Hydanus, Best of Both director Costa Rica Surf and Yoga retreats

1. Try using LED lights this Christmas. They consume about a tenth of the energy of regular lights and are every bit as festive.
2. Consider getting a live Christmas tree, even a small one, not necessarily an evergreen, that can be planted after the season is over. Find a special place for it as a reminder of a conscious and memorable holiday.
3. Gifts are fun to give and receive and even more so when they are handmade by yourself or some local artisan. If you are shopping for gifts, it?s always a good idea to shop locally and support local, owner-run businesses.
4. Also, when considering a gift, perhaps give some thought to giving your time. There might be someone who would greatly appreciate your skills to help them with a project around the house or something like that.
5. But, most of all, the very best gift you can possibly give to your loved ones, your self and our planet, is to VOTE, and that has never been more true then this year. While you are counting all your blessings, please remember that the freedoms we enjoy in this country bring with them responsibilities.

Uh oh – it’s that time of year again; the holidays are just around the corner.
By Sally Camara, Best of Both director of massage therapy

When many people think of massage they think of self-indulgence, but did you know massage has a variety of important health benefits?

When combined with traditional medical treatments, massage is used to reduce pain and promote healing. Scientific research proves that massage therapy increases immune function, decreases stress levels and reduces recovery time in many medical conditions. Additionally, other benefits of receiving massage on a regular basis include:

• reducing or preventing muscle pain, stiffness and spasm
• improving relaxation by reducing heart rate and blood pressure
• easing tension and anxiety, calming the nervous system
• improving circulation
• promoting healthy sleep patterns

“Often times people are stressed in our culture. Stress-related disorders make up between 80-and-90 percent of the ailments that bring people to family-practice physicians. What they require is someone to listen, someone to touch them, someone to care. That does not exist in modern medicine.

One of the complaints heard frequently is that physicians don’t touch their patients any more. Touch just isn’t there. Years ago massage was a big part of nursing. There was so much care, so much touch, so much goodness conveyed through massage. Now nurses for the most part are as busy as physicians. They’re writing charts, dealing with insurance notes, they’re doing procedures and often there is no room for massage any more.”

Joan Borysenko – Massage Journal Interview, Fall 1999

As part of a wellness routine, massage can help you maintain physical, mental and emotional well being, so go ahead – indulge. It’s for your own good!

New Contest – help us plan 2010!

People often ask how we decide what new trips to add. There are several ways (guide interest or knowledge, finding the right company to work with) but one important way is input from the women who travel with us. So this time we’re turning it into a contest, and there are two prizes: 1) a gorgeous new book called Ultimate Adventures, A Rough Guide to Adventure Travel. I was sent a complimentary copy that made me want to quit my job and spend the rest of my life traveling! (And then I remembered what my job is and realized I should probably keep doing it). Anyway, I think you’ll enjoy it. 2) 20% off the trip you suggest when we offer it in 2010.

So here’s the contest-send your suggestion for a dream trip to info@bestofbothadventures.com with the subject line “Contest”. Tell us why you think we should offer it and what time of year is best. Keep in mind that it has to be a trip that we think other women would also want to do, so it can’t be totally obscure, in the middle of a civil war, or require the physical condition of an Olympic athlete. When we have our annual guide retreat, we’ll pick the winner and let you know by December 31.

Where in the world is the Best of Both Team Currently Juli and Sally are in Santa Barbara working on our 2009 Costa Rica trips and getting ready to meet me for our Oct 11th trip to Italy, Michele is on her why to Rincon. Thank God To get ready for the big Surf and yoga season. I’m sitting in the office getting us all set for next year while making sure that this year continues to go well (is there something wrong with this picture?). We have three spaces left on our remaining trips (One space left for the Trip to Tuscany, Three spaces left in our November 5^th-9^th Surf and Yoga Retreat in Puerto Rico, and three spaces left in our Nov 26^th –30^th Puerto Rico Surf and Yoga retreat so give me a call if you want to grab one. And have a great fall!

Dez Bartelt, for all the Team of Best of Both Adventures for women

November trips booking fast… reserve your space today!

Best of Both Adventures for women’s Puerto Rico Surf and Yoga trips

Have quickly become the premier destination for so many reasons.Puerto Rico experiences “summer” weather all year long. It is a perfect place to bring women together in a healthy, healing environment. Nurturing the desire to learn or improve the sport of surfing in some of the best waves in the world. Searching the soul with a beachside yoga practice and bringing it all together with healthy meals featuring some of the best food the Caribbean has to offer.  Choosing organic and local foods whenever possible.

Some of the meals from our adventures:

Quinoa Stuffed Avocado
Quinoa pilaf made with quinoa grain, chopped parsley, slivered almonds and chopped dried mango served in two avocado halves over a bed of organic greens.

Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa and Cous Cous
Chicken breasts marinated in coconut milk and grilled to perfection served with homemade mango salsa on a bed of curried cous cous

More reasons to choose Puerto Rico: No Passport required.

Did you know that you can travel from the States to Puerto Rico without a passport? In a complicated world this makes traveling a breeze.

Surf for all skill levels.

Whether you are new to the sport or need to improve your skill. Puerto Rico offers waves all year long and lessons from skilled instructors.  Kayaking and snorkeling excursions are offered in addition to surfing or if you choose to take a day away from the waves!

Safe for travel.

Puerto Rico is a US territory. Travelers find the area safe and easy to get around. English is spoken in most areas and there is no need for currency conversion!

Great Flights.

Flights arrive daily from the east coast into Aguadilla Airport. Jet Blue www.jetblue.com  and Spirit Airlines www.spiritair.com offer great rates. Check them out today!

If you are searching for the perfect surf and yoga adventure. We have it all here in Puerto Rico!

Yoga. Yoga. Yoga!

Start the day with yoga to energize your body for surfing or to restore and relax from the previous days activities.  Afternoon sessions available to stretch and renew the body and mind!  Classes designed with the beginner in mind, yet powerful enough to challenge the experienced yogi.