Greece:
Is considered to be the cradle of Western Civilization, because of its being the birthplace of: democracy, Western philosophy, Western literature, historiography, political science, major scientific and mathematical principles, major forms of theatre, and the Olympic Games.The Cyclades:
Are a group of Greek islands in the Aegean sea, southeast of the mainland. They have been inhabited for over 5000 years and are considered to be some of the most beautiful places in the world.In the words of Oscar Wilde:
"The sea was sapphire-colored, and the sky burned like a heated opal through the air. We hoisted sail, the wind was blowing fair. For the blue lands to the eastward lie.”And the famous English travel writer, Patrick Leigh Fermor, wrote of his time there:
“The feeling of being lost in time and geography with months and years hazily sparkling ahead in a prospect of un-conjecturable magic.”And the American musician, John Bonamassa had this to say:
“Greece was a muse. It inspired creativity in magical ways that I can’t even begin to understand or explain.”Our Island:
Folegandros, is part of the Cyclades and just an hour boat ride from the famous, Santorini.Folegandros is special, compared to many of the other Cycladic islands, in that it’s quite remote. Its population, of under 800, lives in traditional Greek villages with (the often pictured) charming white and blue buildings and cobblestone streets. The island is known for its pristine hiking trails and beaches, and for its un-paralleled, breathtaking views of the Aegean.If you’re reading this, you may be interested in making this journey with us, so please allow us to tell you a bit about our Fall pilgrimage.

Tukaram

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Tukaram was brought up in an Orthodox Christian household (the tradition of 90% of Greece’s population), and is intimately familiar with, and knowledgeable about, the spiritual traditions of Greece. He also lived in India for many years as a monastic, and received a traditional education in Vaisnava philosophy, ritual, and language. Back home in Southern California, Tukaram serves as the Director of two temples (in Laguna Beach and Long Beach), and also runs a vegan restaurant, an organic farm and animal sanctuary, and an urban ashram.

"A grander vision of my life was made available to me with the love, support and accountability to believe I can reach for it and take real steps to achieve it. There is no going back, everything has changed."Ross K.

Testimonials

“I had such an amazing time in with the Pure Life Tours! Everything and everyone was delightful...from the guides I attended the retreat with, to the accommodations and excursions! I hope to attend another retreat in the future. Thanks for the great experience Pure Life Tours Team!”Sarah B.

“This was my very first international solo trip and I wouldn’t have wanted to experience this trip in any other way! The preparation and planning that went into my personal experience helped me to enjoy every minute of this trip.”Nick G.