A SACRED JOURNEY I

Finding Freedom, Divinity & Sisterhood on the Exotic Island of Haiti
May 25-31, 2018

 

Dream of visiting exotic locations with like-minded sisters?
Want a deeper connection with your own power and divinity?
Hope for true freedom in all aspects of your life?
Then join me on this sacred journey to the Pearl of the Antilles,
the Exotic Island Nation of Haiti!

Your Road to Freedom

Imagine standing on the same sacred ground where enslaved Blacks gathered to declare their freedom, which led to the birth of the first Black republic in the world!

Imagine standing there and declaring freedom in your own life — saying “No more!” to whatever holds you back from your own independence!

 

What your life would look like if you were COMPLETELY FREE?

Your Path to your Divinity

Envision being among those Africans so long ago, praying for courage and God’s protection as they set out to secure their freedom.  A divine connection! Feeling just as secure in your own connection to the Divine – to know beyond all doubt that you have all the power and wisdom you need to fulfill your own destiny! Now, picture what your life would look like if you were always DIVINELY CONNECTED!

Joining a Sisterhood

Imagine what it must have been like for those enslaved Africans, knowing they would taste freedom either together or not at all. They knew that they needed to create unity to make it happen! Now ask yourself what your own family and community might look like looked like if they followed these same principles. Imagine the things you could create together today! What could you create in your life as part of a powerful SISTERHOOD?

THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE HIGLIGHTS THAT

YOU’RE GOING TO EXPERIENCE ON THIS JOURNEY!

Still unsure about visiting Haiti? Well, because this is no ordinary vacation, sis’, here are my top 11 reasons why you MUST join us on this sacred journey:

Thank you so much Regine for every aspect of my Haiti experience. I’m so full of love, compassion, joy, peace along with many other emotions that I can’t describe, as they are emotions I’ve never felt. I’m so changed!  I am transformed! I am free!

Love Stacye

THE SISTERHOOD! Imagine experiencing this amazing adventure with women like you: progressive, like-minded and open to unique, cultural and spiritual experiences. Forget about shallow networking; you’ll forge bonds of support and love that will last a lifetime!
THE BEAUTY! Picture yourself exploring unspoiled, secluded beaches. With baby-soft sand and gorgeous hues of blue sky and water, its natural beauty will take your breath away. Waterfalls, natural wonders and stunning vistas that will leave you breathless. Maybe that’s why Royal Caribbean bought a Haitian beach!
THE FOOD (OMG)! You won’t be able to stop talking about the delicious flavors.  Haitian food is one of the best cuisines in the world — a blend of African, French and

Spanish influences. Spicy, flavorful, fresh, organic foods and juices, delectable seafood, scrumptious griot (the country’s National dish), tasty beans and rice, crispy plantains…it’s all just divine! 

THE HISTORY! If you love Black history (and I know you do), you’ll appreciate the history of this country, which is like no other. You’ll be transported to a place where the enslaved Africans on this small island were able to defeat a superpower to become the first freed Black republic in the world!
THE PEOPLE! When you visit Haiti, you’ll be humbled and moved to compassion by the people’s grace. When you see the warmth, hospitality and happiness from these people, many of whom are struggling in ways that our first-world brains can’t comprehend; you’re going to go home with a new and amazing appreciation for your own life.
THE ART!Imagine standing on a busy street where artisans are selling paintings, sculptures and other art, all colorfully handmade, reflecting the soul of Haiti & Africa. Haitian art is authentic, creative and unique; a blend of African tradition, mysticism and beauty. You’ll marvel at the ingenuity of how artisans can create beauty out of empty cans, bottles or used tires.  Make sure you leave space in your bag to take some of it home.
THE CULTURE! Get ready; because the sights, sounds and smells of Haiti, will invite you to stare, dance, laugh, and explore it all. The culture is vibrant, musical, mystical and alive. From the vivid colors of the houses, to the loud and affectionate warmth of the people, to the African rhythms of the music, and the business of everyday life, you’ll quickly see that Haiti is not your typical Caribbean island.
HE MEANING! Wouldn’t it be really cool to travel somewhere and then really feel good about the contribution you make. Because of the extreme poverty, your tourism dollars will go far to support communities.  But you’ll do much more than that. Your visit will make a meaningful impact on the lives of families that will leave a mark on them forever. You’re going to change lives and be changed because of it.
THE TRANSFORMATION! I want you to hear this reason from a past retreat participant, who said this about her transformational experience on our last Black Butterfly Journeys Retreat: Traveling with Regine has been absolutely life changing. She chooses locations with the intent of opening your heart. She serves as an excellent guide while giving the space to grow and learn on your own throughout the trip. Her guidance allowed me to find out so many things about myself and I will never be the same. Liz G

You’ll definitely experience a transformation that you won’t have in any other situation. The inner journey will be the most important one that you will take because that’s the one that will change your life for the better.

IT’S ALL-INCLUSIVE! Don’t you just love all-inclusives? We’re taking care of absolutely everything for you on this trip. Your lovely accommodations, all of your delicious meals, your incredible tours and activities, your own bi-lingual private guides, all of your in-country transportation as we travel across the countryside and yes; even your in-country flight. Doesn’t get much better than, right?

That’s enough for me! I’m in! 

So, let me about the food! How about some authentic Haitian Cuisine?

Your all-inclusive accommodations include breakfast, lunch and dinner in typical Haitian fashion, which includes fresh fruits, juices and local produce. If you eat pork, you have to try to Haitian national dish called griot, it’s fried chunks of pork deliciously flavored and topped with some of the best spicy slaw on the planet. No exaggeration. They also fry turkey, similar to the pork or you can have it stewed or grilled. It’s moist, flavorful and full of spice.

No meat, no problem! Haiti has an abundance of seafood and boy do they know how to cook it. Grilled, fried, sautéed –fish, lobster, shrimp and conch (ever have juicy, sweet, succulent grilled conch on a beach? OMG…it’s all world).

Add a side of well-seasoned rice and beans, cool fresh salad and crispy plantains, you’ll be in heaven.

Veggie lovers, no fear, Haitians love greens and legumes, usually in a stew or soup of roots and vegetables. Hearty, earthy and absolutely delicious.

And the fruit juices are the best. Made with love and local fruits of grapefruits, lemons, passionfruit, soursop, OMG, so yummy.  You won’t be able to go back to store brought, fountain juices or even the so-called “natural” juices that you get in the states after you return from Haiti.

I’M SO READY TO GO!

I’m curious about this transformation. What does that mean?

Let me tell you about our Sacred Journey!

I believe that you deserve to live every day of your life with joy, that’s why in addition to travelling to must-see locations, this transformational journey will give you the tools to live a life of freedom on your terms. Your journey of independence begins with your inner freedom.  A solid spiritual practice is the first step towards freedom, and we’ll take those steps together.  There’s so much power in the coming together of women to connect with their divinity; to nourish their souls and share their light with the world.

If you already have a solid practice, then you’ll enjoy the time away to go deeper, grow your relationship with your loving Creator; and allow the synergy of a beautiful group of dynamic women to raise your energy and empower you even more. And who knows, you may even pick up some new tools for your toolkit. If you don’t already have a steady, habitual practice, don’t worry, sis, I got you. We’ll build one together; so that when you go back home, you can easily continue on your amazing path to freedom.

So what does all this look like? I’m glad you asked! Every day, we’ll begin with a group meditation, each day focusing on different types of meditative practice so you can discover what resonates with you. From silent to guided meditations, you’ll have fun exploring a wide range of ancient and effective ways to connect with your divine nature.

In addition to our daily meditations, you’ll use active visualization and positive affirmations to create new visions for your life.  You may know by now that I believe in the power of writing.  During our time together, you’ll also use journaling to help you become very clear about what freedom means and what it can look like in your life.  Plus, you’ll walk away with your own personal roadmap to freedom. All you’ll have to do is follow it.

“All major religious traditions carry basically the same message,

that is love, compassion and forgiveness.

The important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.”   Dalai Lama

Day 1
Byen Venu (Welcome). Welcome to Cap Haitian, Haiti, birthplace of the revolution. On our first day together, you’ll meet your fellow amazing butterfly journeyers and together, will set your intention for a powerful, loving and transformative journey together.

You’ll dine on authentic Haitian-Creole cuisine and enjoy your beautiful home for the first part of your journey. And don’t forget to try to Haitian rum punch. Delich!

Day 2
Creating your Vision. Our first full day takes us to lovely beaches near Labadee, Haiti, where we will beach hop on our chartered boat and take in the gorgeous mountains and ocean views. Haiti beaches are so clean and clear–just breathtaking. And they are surrounded by lush green trees, vibrant plants and beautiful flowers.

 

And it is from a space of awe inspiring beauty and appreciation for God’s grandeur that you will create. When you’re wide open, amazed, and in the midst of magnificent beauty, you’ll be a wonderful position to imagine, dream and create a grand vision for your life that matches God’s creation of beauty that you will surround you.
Can’t you just picture yourself sitting under a balmy tree? But wait there’s more. The nurturing doesn’t end there. You’ll  feast on fresh seafood on the beach– conch, fish, lobster, all sweet, delicious and did I say, fresh? Yes, right out of God’s serving plate. You’ll for sure be nourished in your mind, body and spirit.

You won’t be able to think small, be in fear or blocked when you’re witnessing demonstrations of God’s amazing creations;which by the way, are just as magnificent as you are.

Day 3
Journey to Freedom. You’ll begin your outward journey toward freedom today as we trace the steps that the freedom fighters took towards their independence. You’ll tour the region where the original Africans lived. You’ll be riveted by their remarkable bravery and stories that eventually led to the revolution and their freedom.

After experiencing the 300-year-old history of a people who share your roots, your genealogy, and your ancestry, you will know for sure that you can find your own way to freedom.

 

You won your independence. Now how do you make sure you keep it? You build a fortress. The majestic Citadelle, the biggest fortress of the Western hemisphere was designed by King Henri to keep the newly independent nation of Haiti safe from French incursions. Just as King Henri did, you will practice how to protect your own freedom from intruders like self-doubt, fear and negativity.
After tasting freedom, you’ll enjoy and appreciate the majesty of Palais San Souci, the palace also built by Henri Christophe. The impressiveness of Sans-Souci was part of Henri Christophe’s leadership to demonstrate to Europeans and Americans, the power and capability of the Black race. Still standing, the exploration of the remains of this once majestic palace will remind you that the fruits of your own success can be enjoyed once you free yourself from your limitations. No matter where you come from, you too can experience true freedom and live in a palace of your own design.
Day 4
Holding on to the Vision. Today, we leave the past to move toward our present and travel to Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince by plane. You’ll learn about Haiti’s colorful past and present, which may remind you of the ups and downs in your own life. You’ll visit the famous Musée du Panthéon National, a remarkable museum that’s built almost entirely underground. And then pick up some unique souvenirs at the Iron Market while meandering through its exciting maze of vendors selling everything from clothing, jewelry and handbags to Haitian art work. The busyness of the streets; the reality of poverty and the collection of debris won’t escape you.

It may be a little jarring at times. But the lessons you’ll learn during your short visit in the city will be with you for a lifetime. What lessons? For example, you’ll explore how to deal with your own overwhelming thoughts of chaos, lack, pain, guilt (and all sorts of drama you got going on from time to time—oh and let’s not get started on 45, aka, agent orange ☹). You‘ll discover how to have all kinds of stuff going in your head and life, but yet still find a way to live in a consistent state of freedom and joy. And you’ll realize that optimism is a skill; a habit that can be taught if you’re willing to be trained to see it.

Day 5

Inspiring the world. Now that your cup is full, you can now give from your overflow. That’s that only way to give, right?   You are clear about who you are, where your life is heading, and so of course, you are happy to bless others in the same way.  So we pay our blessings forward with children who need it most.

 

Did you know that most Haitians live on less than $3.00 U.S. dollars a day?  If you’re like me, you always want to make sure that when you give your money or time or efforts, it’s actually going to those who can use it. No more wondering if your donation ever reaches the people who need it. You’ll see for yourself how much your gift is a gift to others.
Day 6

Resoring yourself. On our last full day before the end of the journey, you’ll rest and relax.

You’ll enjoy your all-inclusive resort with its beautiful beach, delicious food, wonderful service and knowing that you’re job is to relax and enjoy it all.  Nothing more!

Along with your new sisterhood, you’ll put together everything you’ve seen, heard and learned over the week and take some time to integrate them into your heart and mind. We’ll have our final sacred ceremony together committing to the grand visions we’ve created and to continue the practices that we’ve been using throughout the journey.

Day 7

Orevwa (Goodbye). We say goodbye to this beautiful and rich island nation and to paraphrase words of the poetess, Maya Angelou, you will leave behind nights of terror and fear, into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear, bringing the gifts that your ancestors gave. you are the dream and the hope of the slave.

You Rise. You Rise. You Rise.

And now that you have your freedom road map; plus, tools to stay free.; you ain’t never going back.

Thank you for sharing all of that great info.

Will you tell me what’s included?

  • Beautiful accommodations– double or single* occupancy for 6 nights for stays in Cap-Haitian, Petion-Ville & Grand Goave, Haiti (4 Star equivalent boutique resorts or hotels).
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) **
  • All in country transportation include flights and airport transfers on arrival and departure days
  • All excursions & entrance fees to museums and sites
  • Transportation for all tours and excursions
  • Boat transfer for Beach excursions
  • English speaking regional guided services and tour staff
  • 5 amazing powerful workshopsand exercises plus lots of juicy retreat conversations
  • Intimate ceremonies on sacred, historical sites
  • A Mini coaching sessionto support you in your transformation

*Single supplement is extra.
**Except for day of arrival (dinner only) and day of departure (breakfast only)

What’s Not Included

  • Your airfare from home to Cap Haitian or from Port-au-Prince to home
  • Required travel insurance
  • Other non-included items would be spa treatments, excess baggage charges & alcoholic beverages, personal items, and souvenir shopping!
  • Any other expense not listed in inclusions
  • Additional excursions**

** Interested in adding additional days to your Haiti stay? Contact me for details.

***Initial Deposits are non-refundable

+We reserve the right to cancel retreat if we do not meet minimum number of participants
++Itinerary is subect to change to an equivalent activity or experience

Want to hear from 2 women who took a past journey ?

Your Sister Guide on Your Sacred Journey

My life can mainly be divided into two categories–before consistent spiritual practice and after consistent spiritual practice.

When I am practicing my spirituality consistently, by which I mean, consistent meditation, journaling, gratitude, visioning and positive affirmations, etc., my life works. When I don’t, it doesn’t. Simple as that.

For many years, I would go on retreats as a form of rejuvenation, almost like an annual doctor’s visit or tune-up for my body and mind. I found that when I did, my life was simpler and worked better. I had more clarity. I was happier and less stressed. I stopped sweating the small stuff.

But when the rejuvenating effect of the retreats wore off, I soon found myself back in the jungle of my life. After a while, I started scheduling getaways less regularly as I focused more on work and relationships. As my retreats became less and less frequent, my life became more and more stressed and egocentric.

Eventually, without even realizing it, I got so off center with my work and relationships that it started to seem normal — I even somehow convinced myself that I was OK.

Then one day, the shi* hit the fan, and I lost both my livelihood and my self-esteem. It took some major crises to make me realize that I was the creator of my life and had ended up creating what I didn’t want because I didn’t focus on what I know really works.

What I have been able to figure out after years of trial and error, taking short cuts, pleading and begging for someone or something to fix it is that creating the habit of being who I want to be and loving myself through it, is the best way to go.

When I figured that out, I mean really got it, everything changed.  It was like some doors were unlocked and I got answers to long seeking questions. I became more aware of my own stuff; but not like before where I would feel defensive or guilty and play the same silly game, it’s my fault, it’s their fault, it’s his fault, it’s her fault, over and over and over again. Not like that at all; more in an empowering way, like “okay, I see that, now how can I make changes.” No fuss no muss –just practice.

Eventually, it became routine and then a habit and then I started to notice something; I became happy. Now this is big for me, because I used to have a kind of melancholy that I couldn’t shake on and off for years.

And then I began to feel joy like it was a fountain inside of me that I could increase whenever I wanted. That was very cool. And things started to happen to me. My relationships got better. The focus of my purpose and career changed and best of all, I found love without looking for it.

After I got back on track, I decided that never again would I allow myself to drift away from what’s important to me. Around that time, I began going on retreats again, for things like yoga, meditation and detox. However, on these retreats I seldom saw any women of color. So I decided to create retreats for myself AND my sisters, because I know many of you have experienced exactly what I went through.

Now I’m creating a sort of “ecosystem for fun and learning” –off the beaten path, including enriching, luxury retreats for women of color who want to disconnect from their hectic lives and reconnect with their true selves.

And my greatest joy is to see these women return home feeling as rejuvenated and transformed as I felt, with all the tools and techniques they need to live a healthier, more empowered and beautifully balanced lives.

My vision for you is to realize who you are. To see yourself as unstoppable. To let yourself shine!

If this sounds like you, then let’s travel the globe, nurture our souls and transform our worlds, together!

 

Does this sound like you? Then by all means join me. Let’s nourish our souls; travel the globe & inspire the world together

I think I covered everything, but just in case if you have more questions on your mind, here are some answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about retreats, safety and other stuff.

Just so I’m clear, this isn’t a typical vacation, right?
Exactly, it’s a retreat, which in some ways, it’s like a vacation, except that instead of the focus being on the outside of you, the focus is on the inside.  On a transformational journey, you will do some vacation stuff, but the real experience is all about the inner you. Sure, we will tour sites and enjoy the beaches, the food and culture of the people, but all of that is the backdrop to the main event, which is you.  A retreat is your opportunity to check-in with yourself, create yourself and love and nurture yourself for an uninterrupted length of time.  And because you have a coach helping and supporting you on your journey, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

I’ve been to Haiti plenty of times. What’s different about this trip?
You may have even been born in Haiti, but I’ll bet you that you haven’t experienced Haiti the way we will. First, you have an amazing luxury experience with all the comforts of home during your entire tour. And the Freedom tour coupled with the retreat aspect, workshops and inner exploration is like nothing you’ve encountered before. I guarantee that. Even if you have been to Haiti, you’ll see it in a new light and most importantly, you will see yourself in a new light.

Ok got it. Now, what about safety? I heard that Haiti can be unsafe, is that true?
Haiti has its issues, from crime to earthquakes to corruption, that little Island has seen its fair share of problems, for sure.  For the entire trip, we will be escorted, have security and travel together. While staying at the resorts, we will be extremely safe. We will be visiting sites that are tourist destinations, so there will always be people and security on site.

What about the food and drink, are they safe to consume?
Yes. We will be dining at either the resort or established restaurants vetted by our tour operator. Bottle water will be the order of the day. But just in case, we will make sure to have tummy aids. If you have ever been to Mexico or any developing country, you know what I mean. ? Things happen, of course, but you should be fine.

How do I get there?
You will fly into Cap-Haitian,
which Haiti’s second largest city and is serviced by a regional airport, Cap-Haïtien International Airport, now Hugo Chávez International Airport.  You will either fly directly to Cap-Haitian from Miami/Fort Lauderdale or connect through Port-au-Prince and take a regional plane for the short 30-minute flight.  Once you land, our tour operators will be waiting for you with a big smile and warm Haitian hospitality.  Oh, and of course, a sign with your name on it. ?

You will be flying home out of Port-au-Prince, which is serviced by many major airlines.

Will I need to exchange money?
This is an all-inclusive package, so you won’t need to make any out of pocket expenses. But you may want to buy some local souvenirs and treat yourself to additional local flavors (the rum punch is amazing).  You can exchange your U.S. dollars for the currency of Haiti, although, most places accept U.S. dollars.

Anything else, I need to know?
How about some common Haitian-Creole phrases that you may use throughout your stay? Haitians love to hear foreigners speak their language. I think they really appreciate the effort people to connect with them in their language. So, here we go; your top most-know Haitian-Creole phrases:

Good morning Bonjou
Good night Bonswa
Have a nice day Pase yon bònn jounen
Yes Wi
No Non
Do you speak English? Eske ou pale angle?
Excuse me Eskize mwen
How much is this? Konbyen?
Please Souple
Thank you Mesi
Reply to thank you De ryen

Is that it?

Well, there’s one more thing. The number 11 reason why you must go to Haiti is, for me, very personal. (you thought I forgot didn’t you? ?) Although born in the U.S., I consider myself Haitian. Born to Haitian immigrants, it would be my pleasure to introduce you to an often overlooked and misunderstand island. The birthplace of my parents and their parents, and their parents, the pearl of the Caribbean: Haiti!

******

“Phenomenal Women’s Retreat was wonderful.I learned new skills that I can continue to use in my everyday life. I feel self-empowered and eager to work on my personal goals. Now I have a vision for myself, my family and my love life. I feel so renewed. Thank you Regine for the Phenomenal Women’s Retreat.” Cherline

I’M READY FOR MY TRANSFORMATION!