Skyros, Greece

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Wednesday 3 December 2014

Skyros-in-Cuba


Cha Cha Cha, Hustle and Swing in Tropical Cuba...
 
'By the end of the trip, no one wanted to leave. And, eight months on, we're all in touch, passionate about Salsa and still going to classes in the UK.' Woman and Home
Skyros is getting you shaking, swinging, kicking and twisting with a culturally rich holiday in sunny Cuba. See: https://www.skyros.com/cuba.htm.

Cuba is known for classic American cars, high energy Salsa dancing and the infamous Mojito. Skyros promises an enriching but not overwhelming 10 days of informative historical tours and progressive Salsa lessons. Early morning yoga before a sumptuous breakfast ensures a great start to the day. Share the news of the day and help build that community vibe before dipping in the refreshing hotel pool. 

The Habana Libre is a 5-star hotel oozing style but also fame. Originally known as the Hilton, Fidel Castro chose the Habana Libre as his headquarters while he revolutionised Cuba. The hotel has 24-hour room service, a mini-mart and swimming pool that will be much appreciated in the tropical climate. Cuba prides itself on organic food and excels with its locally caught seafood. 

Havana is the perfect place to learn Cuba's national dance - Salsa. Our authentic Cuban style Salsa classes are facilitated by one of Havana's top Salsa dance professors, Rolando Gonzales. We provide experienced local Cuban dance partners to mentor your Salsa and ensure a high quality learning experience. 

The price of this Cuban adventure is £1,095 with breakfast and two evening meals inclusive. Our designated Virgin Atlantic flight is best booked through The Holiday Place (0207 644 1700) as they include a free VISA with flights. For more information on this unmissable experience visit our Cuba pages here: http://www.skyros.com/cuba.htm 

Watch the Cuba 2012 film . . .

Watch this lovely video put together by film-maker Julian Doyle of Monty Python fame. It's from the Skyros holiday in Cuba. Havana is one of the most diverse and unique countries in the Americas: A city of contrasts with countryside, caves and Caribbean sun -- this holiday is much more than the average dance holiday, it packs a cultural punch too: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlLf2KpBy7M


Contact Us . . . 
If you would like more information about any of our holidays we would be happy to answer any questions you may have:
phone: +44 (0)1983 86 55 66 

online chat: www.skyros.com

Tuesday 11 November 2014

What's on at The Grange By The Sea...

The Grange Christmas dancing.

Shanklin, Isle of Wight: tinsel is creeping into the village shops and Santa's grottos are already popping up here and there. Christmas seems to be approaching fast, some would say too fast, and The Grange Team is getting excited about it! We can't help but shout about the fun Christmas and New Year events that are coming up at The Grange, the place so many have described as 'home from home'. 



If you have already made your plans for Christmas, you may still fancy a short break beforehand. Perhaps a restorative yoga weekend that is coming up soon and is suitable for all levels. It's taught by the wonderful Ken Eyerman. Plus there's an upbeat, moving and grooving Salsa weekend with the energising John Harris, suitable for both absolute beginners and intermediate levels of dancer. 



With AA rated Four Star Guest Accommodation, The Grange is the perfect place to spend a weekend relaxing before the Christmas rush begins. Please do not hesitate to contact us on 01983 867644 regarding information on any of the weekend courses or to reserve your place on our festive breaks.



Friday 14 November – Sunday 16 November

Ken Eyerman, Yoga facilitatorKen's yoga classes are suitable for all levels including complete beginners and those who have injuries or are restricted in their movement. Experience how Ken integrates Yoga with Feldenkrais. His intuitive and spontaneous hands-on approach emphasizes the benefits of using your breath and developing an awareness of your inner process. 

Price: £90 for the course with a 20% discount if you've been on a Grange or Skyros course before. Accommodation with breakfast from £50 per night based on twin share. Single upgrades available. Dinner on the arrival night is £20 for a home cooked three course meal tailored to requirements. 


Friday 21 November – Sunday 23 November

John Harris, Cuban Salsa facilitatorJohn has been teaching partner dances for 12 years and his highly accessible instruction style and natural enthusiasm inspires and empowers dancers and non-dancers alike. All levels of dancer are invited including absolute beginners and intermediates. John is leading a Skyros salsa holiday to Cuba in January and so this course might just be the perfect taster!

Price: £90 for the course with a 20% discount if you've been on a Grange or Skyros course before. Accommodation with breakfast from £50 per night based on twin share. Single upgrades available. Dinner on the arrival night is £20 for a home cooked three course meal tailored to requirements. 



Wednesday 24 December – Saturday 27 December 

Jo Wood, Singer facilitatorChristmas is a time for plenty of good food, spicy mulled wine and a roaring fire to warm up after a cold winter's walk. There is no better place to fulfill your Christmas wishes than at The Grange By The Sea. Our Christmas celebration will be three days of partying, singing, dancing, games, delicious food, coastline walks and the company of inspirational leaders and new friends. 



Andrew Risner, Comedy workshop.
Jo Wood returns for her third year at The Grange. She will facilitate seasonal singing, games and making vocal harmonies. There will be traditional carol singing on Christmas Eve. Jo is an unconventional and energetic teacher who loves to free the natural singing voice. Andrew Risner will be offering some lighthearted life coaching along with a comedy workshop.

Now for the most important part... the legendary Grange Christmas lunch without the hassle of cooking it! Yum...


Secure your place by calling us on 01983 867644, booking online or email us at info@thegrangebythesea

Price: £425.00 for the three night break including twin shared accommodation, courses, activities and all meals. Previous guests of The Grange and Skyros are entitled to a 10% discount. There is now a waiting list for single occupancy but you're welcome to stay locally and join us for all events and meals. Call us for more information. 



Tuesday 30th December – Friday 2nd January 2015


Jo Wood, Singer facilitatorWelcome the 2015 New Year with laughter, smiles and a whole lot of creativity. Enter the New Year singing, looking glamorous and with a new group of friends. We promise it will be one to remember! 


Jo and Alison are two warm and vivacious women waiting to fulfill your New Year celebrations with partying, singing, dancing, games, time for reflection, delicious food, coastline walking and more. Don't miss out on what is set to become one of your best New Year's happening. 

Alison Goldie, Humour and Creative Play facilitatorOn New Year's Eve, the masked ball is a time to put on that dress you could never find the occasion for, or smarten up in your tuxedo and feel like James Bond. Don't forget your mysterious mask!

Price: £425.00 for the three night break including twin shared accommodation, courses, activities and all meals. Previous guests of The Grange and Skyros are entitled to a 10% discount. There is now a waiting list for single occupancy but you're welcome to stay locally and join us for all events and meals. Call us for more information. 

 

An offshoot of Skyros, the leading course based holiday, The Grange in Shanklin on the Isle of Wight offers weekend courses, events and 4-star guest accommodation as listed in the AA's Best British B&B Guide. Nestled in greenery, it is very secluded. Yet it's only moments from the Old Village with its thatched pubs and cosy tearooms, the local train station, shops and restaurants and, best of all, the long sandy beach. Isle of Wight breaks at The Grange have it all!

Call 01983 867644 or email info@thegrangebythesea.com to find out more about these weekend courses and our festive breaks. www.thegrangebythesea.com 

Friday 3 October 2014

Celebrating 2014 and looking forward...

Another wonderful season of holidays on the Greek island of Skyros has come to a close. We would like to say a heartfelt 'thank you!' to everyone involved especially the fabulous, hardworking staff and the very talented teachers who joined us at both the Skyros Centre and in Atsitsa.
Thanks, also, to all the holiday participants who joined us for, and contributed hugely to the success of, the 2014 summer season. Did you have a good time? Here is just a small excerpt from the feedback this summer:
* An inspiring, moving, touching, comforting, spontaneous, delicious world
* An open, warm and fun environment in which I have grown as a person
Generosity and kindness was astonishing. Never felt anything quite like it

My soul is dancing as never before
A wonderful group of people that made the experience even more special
Didn't know what to expect but I just loved it!
I see why many people come back!
Wow have to come back again
Exceeded my expectations. Great people, staff, courses and venue

Skyros is completely unique, no wonder people return again and againI haven't laughed as much in years
Wonderful experience - really memorable - very much recommended
Life changing and life affirming - I leave with a buoyancy that will support me until I do return
You can come to on your own and leave with friendsThis has been a positive life changing experience and I will treasure it

The Skyros magic worked again and I came away thinking the world is my oyster

If you have photos we could include in next year's brochure or on the website, please do send them to us on a memory stick in their original, high resolution size. We will be pleased to send you some Isle of Wight goodies in appreciation.
If you would like to be first to hear about the new programme in Greece planned for 2015, drop us a line at office@skyros.com and we'll be happy to keep you in the loop. In the meantime, how about some winter breaks to keep you going until then 


Skyros-in-Venice: 25 to 29 Oct 2014 www.skyros.com/venice.htm
From morning strolls by the canal to sipping espresso in Piazza San Marco to acquiring a taste for the Italian opera, this stylish holiday will ensure you bring back unforgettable memories from this seductive city of culture.

The holiday price, £595, includes 4 nights' twin shared accommodation, breakfast, 3-course dinner on arrival with wine, vaporetto pass, an evening at the opera, culture talks and artistic activities. Single upgrades available.


Skyros-in-Morocco: 15 to 22 Nov 2014 www.skyros.com/morocco.htm
Explore the vibrant souks of Marrakech and then relax and enjoy winter sunshine in the charming seaside town of Essaouira, described as 'one of the friendliest and most laid-back resorts anywhere'. 

The holiday price, £695, includes 7 nights' twin shared accommodation, breakfast, two evening meals, yoga, walks and talks, visits to places of interest and art courses including expressive painting, dance and free form creative writing. Single upgrades available.

Skyros-in-Cuba: 19 to 29 Jan 2015 www.skyros.com/cuba.htm
Immerse yourself in Havana's charms, its stunning cultural vibrancy and the island's tropical climate. Accelerate your learning of Cuban Salsa by being paired with a local Cuban dance partner.

The holiday price, £1,095, includes 10 nights' twin shared accommodation at the famous 5-star Habana Libre hotel. Salsa participants are partnered with local Cuban dance partners. Morning yoga classes and talks on Cuban History & Culture are also included, plus sumptuous breakfasts, two evening meals and a half day city tour.

Skyros Island Goat Festival: 17 to 24 Feb 2015 www.skyros.com/atsitsa_program.htm
The Goat Festival on Skyros island, Greece, is one of the most unique and internationally famous celebrations and involves the entire community. It is totally spontaneous, often outrageous and totally devoid of commerciality.

The holiday price, £595, includes 7 nights' twin shared half board accommodation. Explore the island, visit the museum, the ancient churches, and observe local crafts. Learn more about the origins and rituals of Apokries, the Goat Festival that is totally unique to Skyros island.


Skyros-in-Nepal: 8 to 21 March 2015 www.skyros.com/nepal.htm
Explore the mystical, medieval city of Kathmandu and the ever-changing scenery in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas. The heart of the trip will be a 7 day moderate'trek through the stunning Langtang Valley. 

The holiday price, £1,295, includes 13 nights' shared accommodation, creative courses, guided walks, breakfasts and two evening meals in Kathmandu (5 nights) and full board whilst trekking (8 nights). Join Skyros' first ever adventure to the top of the world!

Contact Us . . . 
We'd be delighted to answer any questions. Get in touch by:

phone: 
+44 (0)1983 86 55 66
email
office@skyros.com 
online chatwww.skyros.com

or come and visit us at The Grange by the Sea...

Wednesday 13 August 2014

Skyros summer highlights so far . . .

Thank you so much for your valued feedback on our Skyros holidays so far this summer. Some of the comments really encapsulate just what we really love about the holidays, and what we think makes them so special. Take a look below:
Very relaxing. An incredible sense of community. Just what I needed!
 
The perfect holiday for a single person wanting company but space to be alone (but never lonely). Perfect location, perfect climate, lovely people - guests, staff and facilitators.
This is a brilliant holiday, relaxing, great company. Fantastic courses on offer as much or as little as you like. Total Freedom!
 
A great opportunity to let go of worries, relax and become invigorated in a wonderful place surrounded and supported by fantastic people. 
You could still join us ... or even perhaps join us again and benefit from our multiple holidays discount. We have just a few more weeks of holiday time before our summer season in Greece draws to a close (20th September). 
Please see below a list of our remaining holidays on beautiful Skyros island in Greece this summer. Choose either Atsitsa Bay by the sea on the west of the island or the Skyros Centre in the village on the east. 

Atsitsa Bay . . .
On Atsitsa Bay holidays, choose up to three courses per day for four days per week from a wide range including yoga, windsurfing, dance, art, comedy, music and much more.

Right by the sea and in the arms of a magnificent pine forest, Atsitsa has a magical quality. Accommodation is mainly in rustic huts, situated in lush gardens of flowers and fruit trees.

The Skyros Centre . . .
At the Skyros Centre choose in advance from the Life Choices programme, the Writers' Lab and the Art Studio. Early morning yoga is also available.

Set in a stunning location in the ancient hillside village, the Skyros Centre has a panoramic view of the valley and the Aegean. The long, sandy beaches are close by.

Available dates with prices . . .
Sat 23 to Sat 30 August, £695 (1 wk holiday)

Sat 30 August to Fri 12 September, £1,195 (2 wk holiday)

Sat 13 to Sat 20 September, £645 (1 wk holiday)

Prices for the same for both Atsitsa and Skyros Centre holidays. Holidays are inclusive of twin shared accommodation, meals and all courses/activities available. Atsitsa is full-board whereas the Skyros Centre is half-board. Travel not included. Friends of Skyros and Multiple Holidays discounts available. Subject to availability, it is possible to book one week of a two holiday.

Looking forward to welcoming you!

With our best wishes,
The Skyros Team

Contact Us . . .
We'd be delighted to answer any questions. Get in touch by:

phone:
+44 (0)1983 86 55 66

email
office@skyros.com

online chatwww.skyros.com

Friday 25 July 2014

How to have an unforgettable August with three fantastic holiday dates . . .

It's not just the weather that's hotting up. This August Skyros, the leading holistic holiday, have three fab Greek island holiday dates, promising invigorating courses, friendly faces, yummy food, and accommodation with a difference. Forget about the old fly-and-flop getaways. Treat yourself to something unique! And with prices from just £695 including courses, meals and twin-shared accommodation, there's plenty of reasons to make August a month you'll always remember fondly . . .
Saturday 26 July - Friday 8 August, £1,245
Atsitsa Bay: Delight in a selection of Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Massage & Reflexology, Windsurfing, Survival skills, The Artist’s Ark, Comedy, Passionate Living, Music & Singing and more! We have some twin and very limited single hut spaces left (call us before they're gone). You could still share a twin room in the house, or even opt for one of the supplement-free 3 to 4 bedded ensuite rooms with great views over the bay.

The Skyros Centre: Need a little inspiration? Then you're in the right place. Try your hand at creative writing with author Mez Packer's Aspects of Novel Writing, follow your dreams with Skyros Co-Founder Dina Glouberman's 3 Steps to a New Beginning, or unleash your inner artist with Michael Gahaghan's Watercolour Painting. Or you can even mix-and-match the courses over your two week period (subject to availability). Both single and twin-share rooms are available.

Fly into Athens on Friday 25th July to join our overland transfer. Drop us a line for alternative travel arrangements.
                    
Saturday 9 August - Friday 22 August, £1,245
Atsitsa Bay: Join us in the sweet smelling pine forests of Atsitsa, just moments from the sea, for a two week holiday packed with Music, Yoga, Windsurfing, Trapezing, Drawing & Painting, Storytelling, Passionate Living andComedy Improvisation. Choose to stay in a magical twin-shared hut, or opt for shared sleeping quarters in the beautiful Stone Villa (with two or more others) at no supplement. But hurry. Single huts are fully booked already!

The Skyros Centre: In the heart of the traditional Greek village of Skyros, limited spaces still remain at the Skyros Centre for our highly-rated programmes with world class facilitators. You could explore your writing talents with Leigh Russell's Successful Fiction, get creative with Theresa Sundt’s Still Life Painting, or for personal development,Choose Life at Any Risk with Ari Badaines.

Fly into Athens on Friday 8th August to join our overland transfer. Email us for alternative travel arrangements.
                     
Saturday 23 August - Saturday 30 August, £695
Atsitsa Bay: For the last of our August adventures, you'll experience a one week extravaganza of Comedy Improvisation, Storytelling, Bookbinding & Printmaking, Music & Singing, Trapeze, Windsurfing, Yoga and Personal Development. Plus, in addition to the ever magical twin-shared huts, there are a few singles left for the taking. Or, if you prefer living within solid walls, there is still some availability in the charming stone house.

The Skyros Centre: Relax and rejuvenate in the ancient hillside village of Skyros, while you are entertained by one of three fantastic courses: Choose to join writer Phil Gladwin for Screenwriting, life coach Louise Gimson for Making it Happen, or artist Theresa Sundt for Art in the Landscape. Places are filling up fast, but single and twin-share accommodation options are both still available.
Fly into Athens on Friday 22nd August to join our overland transfer. And don't forget, if you decide to book multiple holidays, you'll receive our follow-on discount.
                                            
How to book or find out more . . . 
For more information on Skyros holidays visit their website or give them a call. The office staff always have time for any questions you may have, and are delighted to talk you through the details. Get in touch by:

phone: 
+44 (0)1983 86 55 66

emailoffice@skyros.com 

web / online chatwww.skyros.com

Friday 27 June 2014

A summer to remember in Skyros has begun . . .


Get your sun hat on (or washing up bowl, as is the new trend with this year's Skyros holiday participants), it's time for another summer of giggles galore, forever friendships and inspiration on the beautiful Skyros island, Greece.

At less than two weeks in, we're delighted to have welcomed back so many familiar faces already, in addition to meeting some fantastic new folks for the first time. 

As usual, everyone, whether a Skyros regular or complete newbie, has settled in to their 'home-from-home' in no time at all. Laughter spills across the terrace as Alexia, the yoga teacher, translates a joke in Greek to our fab facilitator Suzanne (pictured right).

Plus the weather is great, the sea is warm, the food is delicious and everyone is super friendly and interesting.

Courses have been a huge success too. Pictured left, the creative writing group with Amanda Smith come to terms with the use of the sentence. Meanwhile one participant from Juliette smith's life coaching course wrote, 'from the moment we entered the room, she generated trust and safety so that I was able to participate fully.'

We really couldn't have asked for a better start to the Greek holiday season, and we're pleased to say that there's even more to come -- Summer has only just begun. . . . Will we be welcoming you to Skyros soon? We hope so!

Decisions made easy. Get the best of both  . . .


Struggling to choose between The Skyros Centre and Atsitsa Bay? Well, from the 28th June to the 18th July you can get the best of both when our two Greek centres combine! You'll sleep in Atsitsa's magical huts, close to the sea; enjoy a melee of courses, including the creative writing and life coaching options, which are usually only available at The Skyros Centre; and gobble scrumptuous, healthy buffets. Tempted? Call us on 01983 86 55 66 for more information.

Above right: Discussions on philosophy, politics and economics are often overheard at the breakfast table alongside a healthy dose of laughter. Start the day happy!

How to book or find out more . . . 


We always have time for you. Get in touch by:
phone: +44 (0)1983 86 55 66

email: office@skyros.com

online chat: www.skyros.com