2025/26 Write & Roam Journeys

What is a Write & Roam Journey? I take small groups (no more than 10 people) to exquisite places around the world. We take our time, stay in hotels/guest houses for several nights, commune with the locals as well as each other. Most mornings we spend about an hour writing together, based on prompts and cues picked up from our travels. We share our work (always optional) and then we make our way out into the world. No writing experience is necessary. The method used in the writing salons is designed to foster creativity and expression and deepen your adventure. I have been leading tours for nearly 20 years. I look forward to traveling with you!

Why Write & Roam?

The journey never ends, and the path changes constantly. Let me take you on a trip that will open your mind and astonish you with what shows up. Writing with a group is an act of healing, kindness, and generosity. Your words need to be written, shared, and heard by others. Write & Roam Retreats allow you to discover your stories (and you have them!) through guided meditation and prompts. You will write, read, listen, and learn what works, and what inspires and moves the reader through incredibly positive and supportive feedback. Our journeys take you to exotic places. Ignite your senses. Make memories that will last a lifetime. Create a community of new friends. See the world in a way you never have before. Let me take you. I’ve been leading trips and retreats since 2007. Truly, the journey never ends so let’s roam together.

What: The Embodied Writing Method Retreat Weekend

When: Friday, May 8 - Sunday, May 10, 2026

Where: Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health

I’ll post the link to register soon.

Join me for my second writing workshop at the world-renowned retreat center Kripalu, in Lennox, Massachusetts. I’ve designed a truly unique program that brings together several modalities that have taken my writing practice to the next level. Through the use of meditation, setting up a writing space using Vedic Feng Shui - Vastu, and dosha-specific Ayurvedic practices, this method will help you establish a clear and easy routine designed to encourage and support your practice, based on your indvidual situation. There is no one process that works for all — let’s find what works best for you.

As I look back on the books I’ve written, I can see how my years of meditation and Ayurvedic practices shaped every part of the process: inception, planning, writing, editing, promotion. The creative part of my brain was activated through my dinacharya (daily routine), allowing me to work under pressure and be innovative and productive without losing sight of the goal.

Now I’m bringing this to you! Absolutely no experience is necessary for this weekend. Let me guide you and help unlock your creativity to see where it leads!.

The Embodied Writing Method is enhanced by aromatherapy, mindful movement, guided meditation, time in nature and breath work to ignite your imagination, quiet the inner critic, and open the channels to allow the prana to flow. And of course, we write, share and offer feedback based on our method of positivity, engouragement and support. Craft tools will be discussed to help you get to the next level, if you desire.

Meditation, writing to prompts, and sharing our work with the group (always optional) allow us to dig deep into the crevices of our minds, where words have been waiting to be expressed. The art of listening is paramount and only positive, supportive feedback is offered. This practice allows for freedom of expression on your creative journey. You will be gently guided into each practice, including deep listening to yourself and others.

Knowing your dosha (a dosha quiz will be sent to you before the workshop) and imbalances can relieve pressure and mitigate blame (of self and others) by understanding where our impulses and behaviors come from. Vata worry, pitta frustration and Kaphic inertia can be examined, forgiven and eradicated using the tools offered in this workshop. Through seasonal eating practices, dosha-specific meditation, gentle movement, and guided writing, imbalances can be lessened to allow more freedom of expression and acceptance of natural-born inclinations.

The Method creates space for you to be open without feeling judged, and to fully express yourself, to be vulnerable without embarrassment. Through writing, we express ourselves on the page without judgment, criticism or censorship.

You will discover:

·       How to turn sensations, images and feelings into words on the page, clearly reflecting your thoughts and intentions.

·       The act of listening as an act of kindness, support and encouragement.

·       Remedies to balance your dosha, allowing prana and creativity to flow with ease.

You will leave the weekend with:

·       Renewed (or new!) sense of belief in your inner wisdom.

·       A robust writing plan for creativity and dosha balancing.

·    Seasonal self-care prompts, techniques, and apothecary recommendations.

Use this link to register for the workshop: https://kripalu.org/experiences/embodied-writing-method-retreat-weekend

 Iceland September 22 - 29, 2025

Golden Circle, Vik, Westman Islands

Registration Closed

The land of fire and ice will ignite your creativity and imagination, and reset your spirit. This tour of the natural world of Iceland is curated with ease in mind. Seven nights in just 2 hotels allows you to unwind, explore, and relax all while visiting iconic sites and hidden treasures in this amazing country.

How can I tell you about the beauty of Iceland? The flowing lava fields, mountainous glaciers reflecting blue, white and gray, spectacular ice caves deep in the earth, the shooting steam exploding from geysers surrounded by pools of bubbling, boiling water, mighty waterfalls that will make you feel like a speck on the planet?! Iceland gives me perspective on who I am and why I’m here. The silence and sounds of nature in this vast, sparsely populated (less than 400,000 people!) country is powerful. The lack of noise allows you to experience nature at a level few do.

On this trip you will hear the geysers bursting forth, the waterfalls slamming the rocks, and bird songs from Ravens, Gyrfalcons and Arctic Terns . Nature breaks through the icy landscape, with double rainbows, expansive rock formations, hearty sheep, stout horses, and hot lagoons.

As we travel slowly, you are invited to go within to explore your inner landscape. We take time to do just that by gathering daily to meditate, write to prompts, and share our work. As your words unfold, a new community is created. I’ve seen such love, support, and care come from these gatherings and trips. Be a part of it. And let it become a part of you.

I love traveling to Iceland because it’s easy. From where I live (Baltimore) there is a direct flight (starting at $300 roundtrip), every day. We leave in the early evening and arrive five hours later, early in the morning in Keflavik. Iceland is pure - the water is crystal clear, you can eat all the food without worry, and you can even sit on the toilets! The buildings, hot tubs, and lagoons are heated with geothermal waters. It may be chilly outside, but it’s refreshing, the cleanest air, the bluest skies, the snow-capped mountains, the northern lights at night.

All you need to do is put down a partially refundable deposit to hold your place. My Icelandic retreats sell out fast. $850 will hold your place. The balance is due on Junly 21. Payment plans can be arranged.

By the way, we are three retreats for three for seeing the Northern Lights. Many times! Many nights! I expect this will continue!

Want to talk about it? Let’s set up a call. Email me: susan@susanweisbohlen.com. I’d love to tell you more.

Minimum amount of travelers: 6; Maximum 12. Registraton deadline (no exceptions) is July 21, 2025.

We depart BWI, or your local airport, on Sunday, September 21 and arrive in Keflavik on the morning of Monday, Sept. 22 (for those celebrating Rosh Hashana, what a way to do it! If departing from another city, please be at the Keflavik airport by 5 am Monday, Sept. 22 or you can arrange to meet us in Reykjavik later in the day.

The itinerary may change slightly due to weather. The weather in September is typically in the 40s in the day and the low 30s at night. It usually does not snow in the Fall, but their could be rain and wind. Sunrise is around 7:30 am and sunset around 7:30 pm giving us plenty of day light.

Day 1 Monday, Sept 22: Upon arrival at 5 am, a private bus will take us to our hotel in Reykjavík where we can rest for a few hours before venturing out to see the city. A big treat awaits us at the world-famous Sandholt Bakery. After a bite and a coffee, we can tour the main streets and get a feel for the city before we meet our guide, driver, and my dear friend Heiða Björk Sturludóttir who will take us to the incredible Sky Lagoon Hot Springs. Everything here is rooted in Icelandic tradition. Enjoy a dip in the hot waters, a cold plunge, and the 7 Rituals including a sauna, scrub steam, mist and herbal elixir. Over the wall of the lagoon is the Atlantic Ocean. I chose this for our first day as I want you to wash away whatever you don’t need for this trip, and soak in the minerals, the warmth and beauty that will last a lifetime. You won’t want to leave, but I promise more wonderful adventures await.

Later we will make our way to our lovely boutique hotel, a former schoolhouse, next to a magnificent church. The Skalholt Hotel will be our home for the next 4 nights, in the heart of the Golden Circle. We will have a private room with a fireplace for our writing sessions, and group meals by innovative Chef Bjarki Sol at his restaurant in the hotel, called Hvonn. He uses only locally grown and sourced foods.

Settle in your rooms, enjoy a meal, and get ready for our adventure. You can use the hot tubs at the hotel anytime! Maybe even see the Northern lights while you soak in the warm waters.

Day 2 Tuesday, Sept. 23 After breakfast and our first writing session, we will visit two spectacular natural wonders. At Geysir Hot Springs we will see boiling mud pits, and wild, exploding geysers. The Strokkur geyser lets loose every few minutes. A hush falls over the waiting groups in anticipation of the shooting hot water. Delightful cheers erupt along with the geyser, which spouts water 100 ft into the air.

Then we will visit Gulfoss, an astonishingly huge waterfall, powerful, gorgeous and LOUD! We will walk up the paths and see the prisms of light and rainbows as the water flows. After our time in the natural world, we will go shopping! A big, beautiful store and cafe nearby offer Icelandic sweaters, socks, hats, gloves and more. .

After a rest back at the hotel, we’ll have dinner. You will already be bursting at the seams with thoughts, feelings and images to transfer to the page.

Day 3 Wednesday, Sept. 24 This morning after breakfast we will continue the writing salon and then travel to village of Selfoss, about a half hour from the hotel. Today is SPA DAY! Before we even leave the US, you can reserve time at Hotel Selfoss for authentic Icelandic spa treatments. Experience traditional sauna, steam room and hot tub where every detail is designed to soothe the senses and rejuvenate body and soul, as well as body treatments and scrubs. Not into the spa? Spend the afternoon in the shops and cafes dotting the streets of this quaint town and get a true feel for Icelandic life.

Day 4 Thursday, Sept. 25 Breakfast and writing start off the day. Today’s journey today takes us into the Kerið's Crater. Approximately 6,500 years old, it’s deep in the earth, wide and easily walkable. We’ll go around the rim and venture down to the depths to explore. The caldera is approximately 180 ft deep, 560 ft wide, and 890 ft across. Later we will visit to Fridheimar restaurant, a geothermal tomato greenhouse, and an Icelandic horse farm. How about that for unique? And the food is simply delicious, fresh off the vine, farm-to-table. We’ll visit with the horses and learn more about their way of life.

Northern lights and hot tubs await us in the evening. Did I mention that wine and beer and local liquors are available at the hotel? They are!

Day 5 Friday, Sept. 26 Today we head out early to reach the mystical, black beach town of Vík í Mýrdal, the southern-most seafront village in Iceland where we will learn about the folklore of trolls, elves, ghosts, and fairies, that are very much a part of the Icelandic sagas, and the natural formations. We’ll explore the Reynisfjara Sea Beach walk, visit the black beach and the hexagonal basalt columns in the cliffs, and see the famous Three Trolls standing guard. (The eerie, surreal Netflix series Katla was filmed here.) Our day will include an Ice Cave visit, the extraordinary Lava museum. which is the closest you may ever get to a lava flow, and Skogarfoss waterfall.

In the evening we will take a ferry boat to the famous Westman Island (Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic), an archipelago off Iceland’s south coast, formed by underwater volcanic eruptions, where we’ll spend the final three nights of our journey. Our guide Heida was born here and her family escaped the night of the devasting eruptions in 1973 when over 400 buildings were destroyed, including her house.

Hotel: https://hotelvestmannaeyjar.is/

Day 6 Saturday, Sept. 27

Breakfast together, writing together, sharing our words, and roaming continue. Today we visit the volcano museum, walk the lava fields and take a boat ride to see the cliff birds around the Island.

Day 7 Sunday, Sept. 28 Breakfast and writing followed by time in town to do some last minute shopping. We’ll hike a beautiful Lava Field and visit the Volcano Eldfell, a volcanic cone just over 660 ft high. It was formed in a volcanic eruption which began without warning. Our day will be filled with natural and nature wonders as we explore the Island.

Day 8 Monday, Sept. 29 Early departure on the Ferry and then directly to the famous Blue Lagoon for one more dip in the hot springs, one more sauna, one more view of gorgeous Iceland, and our final hours before flying home.

Pricing: 7 nights and 8 days:

Double room, sharing: $5995 each

Single room, $6495

A partially refundable deposit of $850 will hold your place. Payment by credit card please add 4%. Payment methods: Venmo: susan-weis-bohlen (last for of cell are 2096; Zelle: 4109792096; check to Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136

Full payment is due Junely 21. Payment plans can be arranged.

Price includes All travel within Iceland, 8 breakfasts, and 4 dinners; entrance fees, Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon experiences, Ferry and boat rides, guide and driver and tips (always optional if you want to offer more), writing salons, 1 private session with Susan for either Ayurveda or writing advice.

Not included: Airfare to Iceland; additional spa services; espresso drinks; alcoholic drinks; laundry services; excursions outside of the itinerary; tips for hotel staff; 7 lunches; 3 dinners (count on $30-$70 a meal without alcohol)

NOTE: A single room for the 5-hour rest after our flight in Reykjavik may not be available. Currently, we have double rooms held that are worked into the price. If you require a single room, at an extra cost, let me know ASAP and I will try and get you a room! Reykjavik is extremely popular and hotel rooms must be booked far in advance.

Review flight options on Play Air. Plan to arrive on the morning of Monday, Sept. 22, and depart the afternoon of Monday, Sept. 29. Flights book up extremely far in advance. I advise you to book your flight ASAP, and buy travel and flight insurance in case you need to cancel or make changes. If you prefer to fly Iceland Air, depending on your time of arrival, you may need to arrange private transport to meet us in Reykjavik.

A packing list will be sent upon sign-up.

Questions? Call me! 410-979-2096. I can’t wait to write and roam with you!

Testimonials:

“I. LOVE. SUSAN'S. WRITING. TRIPS and the Gateless method.  This retreat allowed me to discover my writer.   If you've ever had an inkling to write, then this is where you can discover your voice.  It's encouraging and supportive, inviting your writer to come out and explore. Susan provides a safe environment to express yourself whether it's a list of words, phrases, or sentences.”  MR

“My Write-and-Roam trip to Iceland under Susan's enthusiastic leadership was just what the doctor ordered! Great generative prompts, helpful crafts tips, wonderful writing and feedback, amazing sights, and delicious meals in simple but elegant lodging amongst a group of warm, open, intuitive women (and one man). Our Icelandic guide Heida was terrific too. Highly recommend.” DR

“My favorite parts of the trip were having regular writing practice to look forward to, and the restaurants were enjoyable. The trip was well led and planned and well explained, and what was planned was clear. There was enough flexibility and light-heartedness to make it easy and fun. The writing time really helped to break the ice and to get acquainted with each other.” CM

“What a glorious week! I’ve just returned from Casa Om Potomac after a few days of a writing retreat led by Susan Weis-Bohlen. It was a fun, inspiring, and a safe space to be creative. I made new friends and they are all goddess warriors. We laughed, cried, and danced. Share your story. Open your heart. You will find magic!” Alex H.

“Thank you so much for the opportunity to connect with so many creative, special women at the Casa Om workshop. Your facilitation was excellent. Casa om was beautiful, the food was excellent, and just unwinding along the beautiful Potomac river with the birds and the groundhogs and other beautiful nature sounds and beautiful grounds was a real healing for me. The opportunity to share and write about our experiences past, present and future dreams was also a healing for me. I hope to attend future seminars and experiences with you and maybe even a trip to a beautiful place that you and Larry explore with others. I highly recommend your workshops to creative people who want to explore their inner lives, creative writing skills, and express in dialogue their thoughts, experiences and wisdom, as well as, humor and laughter. As an observant Jew I enjoyed the mid week schedule as well.”
Shoshana S.

Write & Roam travels to the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan,

March 8-18, 2026

Via Delhi, India, with optional Golden Triangle Tour (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur)

March 3-7, 2026

AS OF DECEMBER 2, 2025, THERE IS ONLY SPACE FOR ONE MORE PERSON ONTHIS TRIP!

This tour is for those who want to witness a world rarely seen. As most people only travel here once in a lifetime, I have arranged an exquisite journey, with time to explore inner and outer worlds, in the most unexpected of places on the planet. Come to both countries and receive a substantial discount. Details, itinerary and pricing below.

Bhutan is a hidden gem high in the Himalayan Mountains. What secrets does it hold for you?

• Peace and quiet are pervasive, allowing you to think, listen and create from a place of stillness, rather than chaos and distraction.

• Theta brainwaves will activate, creating flow, stress reduction, creativity, and contentment. These benefits will remain accessible long after the retreat is over. The writing tools, crafts, and techniques are based on the Gateless Method.

• Resistance will melt away. The inner critic who shouts all day long will be quieted and diminished. Let’s leave that critic behind on a valley or river.

• Nature will envelop you, filling you with awe, integrating your connectedness to everything.

• Leave worry and weariness behind. Immerse yourself in the present moment. Listen to wild rivers run, visit Buddhist stupas on the side of the road, and hear the sonorous sounds of thousands of prayer flags flapping in the wind, sending blessings across the world.

• Astonishing architecture in bold colors and designs, just like Shangri-la, will stoke your creativity and fill your senses.

• Plenty of places to shed what doesn’t serve you, and pick up some new vibes!

• Links to all the sites we will visit are in blue and bolded in the daily schedule below.

• I’m happy to have a call with you to talk about the trip! Email me at susan@susanweisbohlen.com.

  Read more about Gross National Happiness here: https://susanweisbohlen.substack.com/.../i-wanna-take-you...

  and here's a short video to tell you more: https://youtu.be/Hwd73ePzpc0?si=CHk5LO57mHBAdHd_

We will travel far and wide, covering more ground at a relaxed pace than most trips done in a hurry! After exploring the charming town of Paro, we will fly across the country to Bumthang and settle in for three nights before traveling by van across the land (see details below) toward China, stopping along the way in villages and valleys, including the hidden paradise of Haa, once known as the “hidden-land rice valley,” which was closed to tourism until a few years ago. At the end of the trip, we will head back to Paro to finish our journey with a climb up the mountain to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

You will experience serene villages, charming guest houses, local farm-to-table cuisine, traditional architecture, and endless natural beauty. You will have no choice but to leave the world behind and immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture.

Why Bhutan? My first trip there was in 2006, on a whim, to join a friend who was traveling in Nepal and India. Suffice it to say that there were so few tourists there that when I returned with a group in 2016, a hotel manager remembered me - and my name! I fell in love with the uniqueness of this place. Wild white rivers rush around huge boulders, monks scurry along to prayers and study, nuns meditate, strangers bow, and you feel like you've reached the end of the world — in a good way! On my first trip, my friend Sue and I sat in a shack on the edge of a town, the only place with an internet connection, and tried to send emails home. Sometimes it worked, sometimes not. That may be the last time I was so disconnected from the world.

Now the internet, and wifi are pervasive, but that feeling that you are far far away is still there. And you are!

This, my fourth time in Bhutan, is a journey designed to maximize the experience while maintaining a relaxed pace. We will stay multiple nights at most locations so you won’t have to pack and unpack constantly. Settle in, take walks, enjoy easy hikes, visit monasteries, and attend festivals. Soak in hot mineral water. Observe monkeys in the trees and admire the spectacular flora and fauna. We’ll fly over breathtaking Himalayan mountain ranges. And write. Most days, we will have two hours of guided writing, including meditation and prompts. With no distractions, goals, or pressure, you will discover your voice. And you’ll hear the voices of others. Learn more here in this 60 Minutes piece on Bhutan from last summer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7g_t1lzn-1A

Our trip is 10 nights in Bhutan. Registration Deadline is DECEMBER 1, 2025. UPDATE: THERE IS SPACE FOR ONLY ONE MORE PERSON ON THIS TRIP, OR A TWO PEOPLE SHARING.

COST: $6289 for a shared room. Add $480 for a SINGLE ROOM upgrade for a total of $6789. The final payment is due by January 1, 2026. Payment plans can be made if needed. Please see below what is included and what is not included in the price.

EARLY BIRD! $5989 shared room. Add $480 for a single room for a total of $6169. Pay in full by December 1, 2025, and save $300.

Early-bird for BOTH INDIA and BHUTAN: $6998, shared room; add $788 for single supplement that covers both countries. Early bird total single is $7786. Must be paid in full by December 1, 2025.

FYI: Cost for the India pre-tour is $1299 per person in a shared room (single supplement: $395).

An $850 partially refundable deposit will hold your place. Credit Card payments include a 4% processing fee. You can pay via Venmo to susan-weis-bohlen (last four digits of cell are 2096); Zelle: 4109792096; PayPal using Send Friends Money option to susanweisbohlen@gmail.com; or check to Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136.

Price includes a Bhutanese travel Visa; dedicated guide and driver; 11 nights' hotels; 3 meals a day; water; entrance and festival fees; all travel within the country, including the Bumthang-Paro flight; exceptional writing salons; personal one-on-one session with Susan for an Ayurvedic or writing consultation; extraordinary sights; a once-in-a-lifetime experience; new friends!

Not included: Flights to Bhutan from the US, or your originating country; flight from Delhi to Bhutan and return; tips for guide and driver; alcoholic drinks; espresso drinks; snacks; laundry services; mineral hot baths and spa services.

Flights from Delhi to Bhutan are currently $565. If traveling from Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia, please make arrangements to meet us in Bhutan by 7 am on March 8, or we will organize for you to join the group at your own expense. Travel insurance is highly recommended. We use https://www.travelinsured.com/agency/.

This is high-altitude trip. Please check with your health care provider for any issues that might arise when travelling over 13,000 feet. There are medications like acetazolamide, which can help you to acclimate.

Daily Itinerary:

Day 1: HAA: The flight into Paro begins our journey to the spectacular beauty of Bhutan. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks give way to the lush green Paro Valley. Hint: Those seated on the left side of the flight will have a magnificent view of the snow-covered peaks of Mt. Everest. The first gift from Bhutan will be the cool, clean fresh air as you step out of the plane. After resting in a hotel near the airport for a few hours, we will drive to Haa Valley.

Our afternoon journey takes us over the Chelela pass, one of the highest points (3,780 m/12401 f) of drivable road in Bhutan. You will see incredible views of the highest mountains of Bhutan and the scenery is magnificent. Then onto the Forbidden Valley of Haa (which only opened to tourism in 2002), which borders China. Dinner and overnight at the Haa Heritage Hotel. 

Day 2: Haa. We will continue sightseeing with a visit to the Dzong of Haa and the temples of Haap Chhundu (guardian deity of the valley). In the late afternoon, we will settle in for our first writing session at the hotel.

Day 3: Haa. In the morning drive a short distance to hike (45 minutes) to the Juneydrak hermitage from Katsho village. This Cliffside retreat also houses the right footprint of Machig Labdron, a female Tibetan tantric practitioner whose practice of Chod, a spiritual practice, has heavily influenced all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Juneydrak is a magical temple on the edge of a cliff. The hike is steep but not too hard and the reward is worth it. Time spent in this small shrine is very moving. We’ll have a meditation, then descend to a picnic lunch. After being inspired by the sights and sounds, we will write in the afternoon together. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 4:  Haa – Drive to Thimphu. After breakfast depart to Thimphu, the capitol city, a 2.5 hour drive. Thimphu has a population of about 100,000 and is made up of just three streets of shops and is the only capital in the world without traffic lights. After lunch visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of our late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk; and also visit National Institute of Traditional Medicine; the Art & Craft School, where children still learn the ancient art of Buddhist painting. Evening ends with a walk through the main streets of Thimphu and also visit the Farmer’s Market, where everyone goes to buy fruits and vegetables, rice, grains, chillis and other fresh foods. The crowded stalls offer many colourful local items such as yak tail dusters, butter tea cups, turquoise from Nepal and Tibet and musical instruments and finally visit Handicrafts Emporium, which has all types of Bhutanese handicrafts for sale.  Dinner and overnight at Capitol Hotel.

 Day 5: Thimphu valley sightseeing – Depart to Punakha. In the morning after breakfast and our writing session, we’ll visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which is dedicated to connecting people to the Bhutanese rural past through exhibition of items and artifacts used in rural households, and the Textile Museum, where the art of traditional weaving is still kept alive and preserved through exhibition and has a good collection of old textiles which are rich in its color and design. We’ll drive to Punakha, through a forest of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichen high up near Dochula pass (3,050 m), with panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges. After stopping for tea and the view, we descend along a series of hairpin bends to the fertile valley of Punakha, visit imporessive Punakha Dzong, (built in the 1600s) remarkably located between the rivers of the Mo (Female) Chu and Pho (Male) Chu and also pay a visit to more intamate temple Chhimi Lhakhang, of the “Divine Madman” built in 1499. Dinner and overnight at hotel, Bhutanic Resort

Day 6: After breakfast and morning writing, we continue our overland travel towards Bumthag, passing Wangdue, (pronouced Angdee) a major town in Western Bhutan where we make a short stop to view the Wangdiphodrang Dzong dramatically located on the spur of a hill at the confluence of the Tsang Chu and Dang Chu rivers. We then climb steadily passing through semi-tropical vegetation and then to Pelela Pass, an alpine environment of rhododendrons and dwarf bamboos, and finally to Gangtey. Gangtey lies on the flanks of the Black Mountains, with a monastery dating back to the 17th century, and fascinating valley of Phobjikha. The gentle sloping hillsides of Phobjikha is described as " the most beautiful valley in the Himalayas". This is the winter home of black-necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in milder and lower climate. In the afternoon we’ll see the Gangtey Goempa monastery, which was built in 1613 by Gyalse Pema Thinley which holds many antique relics and walk a nature trail. Hotel: ABC Lodge Gangtey

Day 7: Gangtey – Trongsa – Bumthang After as early breakfast, we drive to Bumthang via Trongsa. The drive to Bumthang is approximately 4 to 5 hours. This route is traditionally considered the boundary between West and East Bhutan. If the weather is clear the Himalayan ranges can be seen, particularly the peak of Chomolhari to the west. En route we cross Chendebji Chorten built many centuries ago to supress a demon! Lunch will be served at lovely Water fall café in Trongsa, next to the roaring river with huge boulders. After lunch visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong, ancestral home of the ruling dynasty, and finally to Bumthang. Evening attend the Yoga Shala class at the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel, Rinchenling Lodge 

Day 8: Bumthang valley is one of the most spectacular valleys in Bhutan and also the heartland of Buddhism. Here many great teachers meditated and left in their wake many sacred grounds. The Guru and his lineage of Tertons (treasure finders), have led to the sprouting of many temples in the valley. Today we will rest, walk around the town for shopping and visit the amazing Six Senses Resort for (optional) spa treatments and visit the Swiss farm where you can buy cheese and local fruit products. Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Bumthang – Day excursion to Ura valley After an early breakfast and writing, we’ll drive to Ura valley which is the last valley of Bumthang, which lives on livestock and potatoes faming. Picnic lunch served and after lunch drive back to Bumthang and on the way visit Tang Membar Tso, the Burning Lake and nunnery. Evening ends with a walk through the Chamkhar town. Back at the hotel you can schedule a hot stone mineral bath to relax before we fly back to Paro the nest day. Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 10: After breakfast, we will fly to Paro and check into our hotel. In the late afternoon, we will have a writing salon. Dinner and overnight at Metta Resort.

Day 11: This morning we will hike to the truly magnificent Tiger Nest Monastery (4 miles round trip, elevation: 3,120 meters/10,232 feet). No worries if it feels challenging as there is a cafe about one and a half hours up and I’m happy to rest there with you. At the top, you will see the stunning view of the monastery, where Guru Padmasambhava landed on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. After the visit, we will head back to town, to rest and pack and have one last session together. You can also take an optional walk through Paro’s main shopping district. Dinner and overnight at the hotel TBA.

Day 12: On our last morning in Bhutan, we will soak in the beauty as we drive to Paro and fly home via Delhi.

This trip is limited to TEN people to insure the small group experience. To reserve your space you can send me a partially refundable deposit or $850 to Venmo: susan-weis-bohlen (last four of cell are 2096); Zelle: 4109792096; Paypal using the send friends money option to susanweisbohlen@gmail.com; or send a check to Breathe Books, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136. If you would like to use a credit card, a 4% fee will be added.

*India Golden Triangle Tour: March 3-7.
Optional Add-On. Taj Mahal, Delhi, Jaipur, Elephant Rescue, Jewels and Textiles

Tuesday, March 3 Arrival in Delhi. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel to rest before we hit the road to the Golden Triangle. After a good rest, we will drive through the India Gate & visit the illuminated Qutab Minar to give you a taste of Delhi: Dinner and overnight at THE LEELA AMBIENCE CONVENTION

Wednesday, March 4:  After breakfast, we make our way to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal. (4 hour drive). Upon arrive we visit the Agra Fort built by Emperor Akbar over the years 1565 – 1573 with its maze of courtyards, mosques, and private chambers. Most of the buildings originally built by Akbar were destroyed and were replaced by his grandson Shah Jehan. The only surviving structure from Akbar’s period apart from the solid sand stone ramparts and the gateway is the Jehangir Mahal. It is the biggest private residence in the complex and its architecture indicates strong influences from Hindu overtones. Overnight at the hotel. GRAND MERCURE

Thursday, March 5: DELHI-AGRA: After breakfast we will visit Taj Mahal, built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, a stunning mausoleum built of pure white marble  — an architectural marvel, built as a mausoleum to his wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal. The building was conceived as a garden tomb with the mausoleum rising at the far end of the complex with the river Yamuna flowing below. Beneath the dome are the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jehan.

After leisurely spening time exploring the grounds and the Taj, we depart by surface to Jaipur en-route visiting etraordinary Abhanri Stepwell,

Chand Baori (step well) in the Abhaneri village is one of the oldest (9th century AD) and most popular attractions in Rajasthan. One of the largeststep-wells in the world, Chand Baori was built to conserve water and provide a respite from the intense heat. It was a community gathering place for locals as well as royals. Chand Baori is an architectural wonder with 3,500 perfectly symmetrical, narrow steps. It is this exquisite geometry that draws local and international visitors to it every year. But Chand Baori is not easy to find, making it one of India’s hidden wonders. The play of light and shadow on the steps is what makes the structure so captivating. 

Adjoining the Chand Baori is the Harshat Mata Temple. This 9th-10th century temple is dedicated to Harshat Mata, who is considered to be the goddess of joy and happiness for the whole village. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. INDANA PALACE

Friday, March 6, Morning after early breakfast, excursion to Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the State until 1728. Visit the Jagmandir or the hall of victory glittering with mirrors, Jai Mahal and Temple of Kali. Later sightseeing tour of Jaipur city. Among the principal sights are the Jantar Mantar or the Observatory, The Palace of Winds or Hawa Mahal, The City Palace& Museum. Jaipur is also a major centre of precious and semi-precious stones, Jewellery, cotton textiles and the typical Blue Pottery. Overnight at the hotel. INDANA PALACE

Saturday, March 7, JAIPUR-DELHI

After breakfast, depart by surface to Delhi. If there is time and the will (!) we can take an evening rickshaw ride in Chandi Chawk - the heart of Old Delhi. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. ASHOK COUNTRY RESORT

Sunday, March 8, Early morning departure to airport for our 4:45 am flight to Paro, to begin our journey in Bhutan.

Included in the trip package is a hotel room at ASHOK COUNTRY RESORT on Wednesday, March 18, upon arrival from Paro, Bhutan at 2:45 pm. After a rest and walk around the beautiful grounds, we will have dinner and depart for the Delhi airport for our 9:30 pm flight back home (Emirates Air flight EK 231 to Dulles/IAD via Dubai) 

Cost: $1299 per person in a shared room (single supplement $395).

Early bird for BOTH INDIA and BHUTAN: $6998, shared room; add $788 for single supplement covers both countries. Early bird total single is $7786. Must be paid in full by December 1, 2025.

Inlcude India pre-tour and take 10% off the total price. (see details below) Cost for India pre-tour. $1299 per person in a shared room (single supplement $395).

Cost after December 1, 2025, is for India & Bhutan: $7588 for shared room; $8463 for single.

Rate includes

• Accommodation on twin sharing room on bed and breakfast basis for total of 6 nights at the hotels mentioned below or similar.

• Assistance on arrival/departure at airport/hotels.

• All transportation using one air-conditioned vehicle.

• Services of a locally appointed English-speaking guide for sightseeing tours.

• All currently applicable entrance fees to the monuments.

• Cycle rickshaw ride at Chandni Chowk/Delhi.

• Jeep ride to Amber Fort/Jaipur.

• Accompanying Royal Indian Voyages Escort in addition to local guides

• All currently applicable Govt taxes.

 Rates do not include:

• Meals other than breakfast.

• Camera fees at the monuments.

• Tips and gratuities.

• Medical & Travel Insurance.

• Expenses of any personal nature such as laundry, beverages, telephone calls etc.

• Any other services not covered above.

About Susan:

After the extraordinary experience of running my bookstore, Breathe Books, for 10 years, I closed the shop in 2014 to concentrate on my Ayurvedic practice. Little did I know that publishers who once asked me to sell their books would now be asking me to write them! I wrote three books on Ayurveda between 2018 and 2023. That incredible adventure led me deeper into creative writing and I began taking classes, workshops, and retreats. I started with a deep dive into a retreat with Suzanne Kingsbury, founder of the Gateless Writing. My interest in this type of writing (memoir, fiction, non-fiction) was not only sparked – it was set on fire!  During and after COVID I took so many online and in-person classes, including with iconic writing teacher and author Natalie Goldberg, best-selling author Laura Munson, and Diablo Writers Workshop, Dani Shapiro, learning craft and structure.

I have spent hundreds of hours learning the art of creative writing and teaching it as well. It’s almost as if I had a mini-MFA and I continue every day to hone the craft and I love teaching others. In April 2022 I led my first writing retreat in West Virginia, which was followed several more in Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland. In 2023, and 2024 I led groups in Iceland and also in 2024 to Buthan. In August 2025 I will be teaching Writing and Ayurveda at Kripalu in Western MA. (see testimonials below). I have been leading international trips (England, Peru, Bhutan, and India) since 2007.

Additionally, if you are interested in publishing I am happy to talk to you about my path and how you can make it happen. From the query letter to the proposal, finding an agent, going the traditional publisher route, or checking out the incredible new options for hybrid-publishing, I can help you find your way. My books are with Simon & Schuster and Quarto Group, published in the US and foreign language editions. I’ve had great success and I can’t wait to share with you everything I have learned.

Testimonials:

“What a glorious week! I’ve just returned from Casa Om Potomac after a few days of a writing retreat led by Susan Weis-Bohlen. It was a fun, inspiring, and a safe space to be creative. I made new friends and they are all goddess warriors. We laughed, cried, and danced. Share your story. Open your heart. You will find magic!” Alex H.

“Thank you so much for the opportunity to connect with so many creative, special women at the Casa Om workshop. Your facilitation was excellent. Casa om was beautiful, the food was excellent, and just unwinding along the beautiful Potomac river with the birds and the groundhogs and other beautiful nature sounds and beautiful grounds was a real healing for me. The opportunity to share and write about our experiences past, present and future dreams was also a healing for me. I hope to attend future seminars and experiences with you and maybe even a trip to a beautiful place that you and Larry explore with others. I highly recommend your workshops to creative people who want to explore their inner lives, creative writing skills, and express in dialogue their thoughts, experiences and wisdom, as well as, humor and laughter. As an observant Jew I enjoyed the mid week schedule as well.”
Shoshana S.

“I. LOVE. SUSAN'S. WRITING. CLASS and the Gateless method.  This class allowed me to discover my writer.   If you've ever had an inkling to write, then this is where you can discover your voice.  It's encouraging and supportive, inviting your writer to come out and explore. Susan provides a safe environment to express yourself whether it's a list of words, phrases, or sentences.”  MR

“My Write-and-Roam trip to Iceland under Susan's enthusiastic leadership was just what the doctor ordered! Great generative prompts, helpful crafts tips, wonderful writing and feedback, amazing sights, and delicious meals in simple but elegant lodging amongst a group of warm, open, intuitive women (and one man). Our Icelandic guide Heida was terrific too. Highly recommend.” DR

“My favorite parts of the trip were having regular writing practice to look forward to, and the restaurants were enjoyable. The trip was well led and planned and well explained, and what was planned was clear. There was enough flexibility and light-heartedness to make it easy and fun. The writing time really helped to break the ice and to get acquainted with each other.” CM