2025 Itinerary, Pricing and Registration: Essence of Bulgaria Exploration

2025 Essence of Bulgaria Exploration:
The Queen of Flowers Retreat for Women

Daily Itinerary
June 4 – 11, 2025 –  8 Days/7 Nights

A wonderfully-unique travel experience awaits us as women in Bulgaria! Their land of roses, lavender, healing thermal waters, excellent spa services, daily yoga practice, cultural exploration, delicious food, and luxurious accommodations provides the perfect setting to elevate the feminine in us all.

My Essential Earth Explorations small-group women’s travel program offers so many dimensions in self-awareness and growth, plus the chance to create life-long friendships with fellow travelers.  This is an ideal Exploration to share by inviting a friend, daughter, or mother to join you on this special retreat. Take a look at what I have planned for you with the help of my incredible travel partners at Learning Journeys!

DAILY ITINERARY

Wednesday, June 4 – DAY 1 –  ARRIVE IN SOFIA, WELCOME RECEPTION

Welcome to Bulgaria and the Sofia airport!  Upon arrival, please go through Immigration, collect your baggage, pass through Customs and look for your Learning Journeys Representative who will take to your driver and transfer to our hotel. Your room will be reserved from 2:00pm onwards to rest on arrival. Spend the afternoon at leisure in advance of gathering at the hotel for a Welcome Reception in the evening.

Overnight in Sofia at Sofia Balkan Palace 5-Star Hotel
(Meals are not included today but light hors d’heuvres will be served at the Welcome Reception)

 

Thursday, June 5- DAY 2 – CITY TOUR, RILA MOUNTAIN MONASTERY, WELCOME DINNER

Enjoy our group’s first gentle yoga practice before breakfast at our hotel. This morning we will explore Sofia, a modern, youthful Eastern European capital, distinguished by a unique combination of communist-style architecture, Ottoman mosques and onion-domed churches.  We’ll view and learn about the statue of Saint Sofia, the city’s patron saint whose statue was erected in 2000 to stand in a spot once occupied by a statue of Lenin. Sofia means wisdom in Greek –that’s why she holds an owl in her left hand, a symbol of wisdom. In her right hand she holds a laurel wreath, symbolic of many things for Greeks and Romans: peace, success, reputation etc.

Our morning of touring Sofia is where we’ll discover many of Bulgaria’s finest museums, galleries and restaurants along with several interesting landmarks such as the impressive Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the colorful Church of Saint Nicholas the Miracle-Maker, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the Church of Saint George, the Banya Bashi Mosque, the Sofia Synagogue, the National Palace of Culture, and Largo, one of the prime examples of Socialist Classicism architecture and one of Sofia’s main landmarks.

After the city tour, we’ll stop for a lunch break at one of Sofia’s many, delightful restaurants.

Following lunch, enjoy the countryside as we travel 90 minutes high up into the Rila Mountains toward the historic  Perched beneath Bulgaria’s highest peak, Musala, and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its serene atmosphere and authentic charm. It stands as one of Bulgaria’s most photogenic and peaceful locations, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

This evening we’ll all enjoy our Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant to savor traditional Bulgarian cuisine.

Overnight in Sofia at Sofia Balkan Palace 5-Star Hotel  (B, D)

 

Friday, June 6 – DAY 3 – PLOVDIV, ROAD TO KAZANLAK & ROSE COUNTRY

After optional morning yoga practice, breakfast and check out, we will travel for 90 minutes to explore the beautiful and ancient city of Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities and designated as the “2019 European Capital of Culture.” Located on the banks of the Maritsa River and built around seven hills, Plovdiv boasts a cultural blend of different civilizations and a unique mix of architectural styles, making it an open-air museum. Visit one of its most famous landmarks – the architectural complex of Ancient Plovdiv, where many beautiful houses from the Bulgarian Renaissance era have been preserved and restored. The city’s most significant monument is the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, a 2nd-century amphitheater renowned for its perfect acoustics. The theatre continues to host theatrical performances, concerts, and various cultural events to this day.

We will also explore the Roman Stadium and the Church of Saint Constantine and Helena before concluding your tour in Kapana, the city’s vibrant creative district. This pedestrian area is filled with eclectic shops, charming restaurants, and art galleries, offering a lively and artistic end to our visit.

Make the most of your free time by discovering the city at your own pace – wander through charming streets, shop for unique souvenirs, and treat yourself to the rich flavors of Plovdiv’s cuisine during a leisurely lunch.

Today’s journey continues for about 90 minutes to Kazanluk, the heart of Bulgaria’s renowned rose-growing region. Over the next few days, we’ll immerse ourselves in learning about the tradition and production of Rose essential oil, often hailed as the Queen of Essential Oils. This cherished oil is prized worldwide for its luxurious aroma, soothing nature, healing properties and deep connections to love and romance. The Kazanluk area, with its breathtaking landscapes and the famous, annual Rose Festival we will experience, is celebrated for its exquisite rose oil, a key ingredient in many of the world’s finest perfumes and cosmetics.

As the day winds down, we’ll make our way to the Kings Valley Medical & Spa Hotel, where relaxation awaits. Check-in and let yourself unwind in the hotel’s peaceful and luxurious setting for the evening.

Overnight in Kazanluk at Kings Valley Medical & Spa 5-StarHotel (B)

 

Saturday, June 7 – DAY 4 – DAMASCENA COMPLEX, ROSE FESTIVAL, SPA SERVICES

Following optional morning yoga practice and breakfast, we’ll take a short drive through the stunning Valley of Roses to explore Bulgaria’s first, private rose essential oil factory at the Damascena Ethnographic Complex. Through exhibits and demonstrations we will uncover why roses are a cherished symbol of Bulgaria. Enjoy an exclusive factory tour and see how this “liquid gold” is meticulously crafted – a fascinating process to witness! We’ll visit the amphitheater  and have the opportunity to purchase their renowned rose essential oil straight from the distillery.

Ready to enjoy some fun? Some may choose to step in to the Saturday night experiences that await at the Kazanluk Rose Festival.  Others may prefer to relax with a pre-scheduled treatment at Kings Valley, unwind at the hotel’s luxurious spa, or take a dip in the refreshing indoor and outdoor thermal pools.

Overnight in Kazanluk at Kings Valley Medical & Spa 5-Star Hotel (B)

 

Sunday, June 8 – DAY 5 –  ROSE FESTIVAL, SPA SERVICES

Let’s start the day with a gentle yoga practice together, followed by breakfast.  Then we’re off to enjoy the very special Kazanluk Rose Festival, a vibrant celebration where you can fully immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage. Experience traditional Bulgarian music and dance performances that highlight the local folk traditions. Wander through a variety of stalls offering an array of goods, from handcrafted rose products to local crafts and delicacies. The Rose Festival provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the region’s famous roses, learn about their significance, and savor the festive atmosphere of this colorful event.

After immersing ourselves in the lively Kazanluk Rose Festival, let’s retreat to the serene comfort of Kings Valley Medical & Spa Hotel for the afternoon. Take advantage of this opportunity to luxuriate in the hotel’s world-class spa. Indulge in soothing therapy treatments tailored to refresh and revitalize you, or unwind in the opulent indoor and outdoor thermal pools, surrounded by tranquil views.

As evening approaches, you again have the option to continue enjoying the Rose Festival’s enchanting evening activities or simply savor the peaceful ambience of the hotel, completing a perfect day of exploration and relaxation.

Overnight in Kazanluk at Kings Valley Medical & Spa 5-Star Hotel (B)

 

Monday, June 9 – DAY 6 –  doTERRA’s TERRA ROZA DISTILLERY, ETHNO VILLAGE ETAR, VELIKO TARNOVO, ROAD TO VARNA

After optional yoga practice and breakfast, we’ll set off a very special visit to doTERRA’s Terra Roza Distillery, where we’ll get a behind-the-scenes, up-close look at the precious rose distillation operations.  To collect pure rose essential oil as efficiently as possible and ensure doTERRA’s Co-Impact Sourcing Guiding Principles are being upheld, doTERRA built a rose distillery in the town of Shipka, Bulgaria—in an area known as The Valley of the Roses. The Terra Roza distillery began operations in May 2020 and was built as an extension of the doTERRA Esseterre Bulgaria operation.​  The Terra Roza facility is seasonally active, and those involved in the production processes are local specialists and those from the distillery in the town of Dobrich. This fascinating private tour will help you truly appreciate every drop the rose essential oil we have and will enjoy! Get ready for aromatic bliss and a deeper understanding of the therapeutic value and economic impact of this oil of Bulgaria. This visit will leave you inspired and refreshed, with a deeper appreciation for the harmony between nature and self-care.

Our journey continues towards the Open Air Ethnographic Museum Etar, where we’ll uncover the true charm of traditional Bulgarian life from a bygone era. Explore historic water-powered installations, artisans’ workshops, and authentic Bulgarian National Revival era architecture including its cobblestone streets.

Unveil the secrets of herbal traditions as you craft your own handmade soap or soothing calendula ointment. Delve into the art of creating herbal cosmetics using age-old recipes passed down through generations. Witness the ancient techniques women used to harness nature’s power for their beauty rituals, with a hands-on demonstration of crafting natural, herb-based products.

Afterwards, prepare for a journey back to the rise and fall of the mighty capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185 — 1396). As you walk along the cobblestone streets of Veliko Tarnovo, you will discover how its population thrived under Turkish rule, creating magnificent architectural masterpieces and forming a strong and united craftsmen’s guild. Explore Tsarevets Fortress, where you can admire the well-preserved remains of the royal palace.

We’ll take a lunch break in Veliko Tarnovo, followed by free time to explore the city’s main street, charming handmade shops and unique souvenirs.

We’ll conclude our day with a relaxing drive to Bulgaria’s east coast to Varna, a lively coastal city on the Black Sea. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, Varna offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Explore the city’s renowned landmarks, such as the Roman Baths and the impressive Cathedral of the Assumption, or stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade. With its mix of cultural attractions and seaside charm, Varna promises a refreshing and engaging experience.

Overnight in Varna at Maritim Hotel Paradise Blue 5-Star Hotel (B)

 

Tuesday, June 10 – SUNRISE YOGA, ESSENTIA LAVENDER, SPA & BEACH TIME, FAREWELL DINNER

Start our day with a serene sunrise yoga session on the beach. As the sun rises over the horizon, feel the soft sand beneath our feet and listen to the gentle waves as we greet the day together, in nature. This peaceful start will rejuvenate your mind and body, setting a tranquil tone for the rest of the day.

Did you know that Bulgaria is one of the world’s leading producers of the highest quality Lavender essential oil? After yoga and breakfast, we will travel to explore how Bulgarian lavender is grown, harvested and distilled as we immerse ourselves in the calming, early-season beauty of Essentia Lavender – a boutique, family-run lavender farm nearby. Stroll through endless rows of vibrant lavender, taking in the soothing scent that fills the air. Learn about the cultivation and uses of lavender, and perhaps even pick a few sprigs to take home. This visit offers a perfect blend of relaxation and education in a truly picturesque setting.

Enjoy a delightful lunch on your own in Varna, savoring local flavors that complement the peaceful ambience of the day.  The afternoon is yours to unwind. Take advantage of the hotel’s luxurious spa, where you can indulge in various treatments designed to relax and revitalize. Alternatively, spend time by the sea, enjoying the waters and the warmth of the Bulgarian sun. This is your time to reflect on the past week’s incredible experiences and fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.

In the evening, gather for a special Farewell Dinner at a seaside restaurant, celebrating the end of your incredible Essence of Bulgaria Exploration with delicious food and stunning views.

Overnight in Varna at Maritim Hotel Paradise Blue 5-Star Hotel (B, D)

Wednesday, June 11 – DAY 8 – Varna Departure

It’s time to say farewell. Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel and check out for departure to the Varna Airport for your trip back home. (B)

UNUSED TOUR ELEMENTS. No refund will be given for any unused tour features, whether because of customer’s choice, operational reasons, because of bad weather or any other reason.

ERRORS. In case of printing, typographical error, computer error, verbal or human billing error, we reserve the right to invoice or re-invoice participants with corrected billing.

BAGGAGE. Each traveler is limited to one large suitcase (maximum 50 lbs.) and one small carry on due to limited baggage area on buses. For some airlines and taxi/coach transfers, extra luggage may be subject to an extra charge due on the spot.

You are responsible for complying with the airline regulations concerning their baggage allowances and with the airline restrictions on the size, weight and contents of your check-in and carry-on bags. Check with the carrier for luggage guidelines. Learning Journeys is not responsible for loss or damage of luggage or personal belongings. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended to cover loss or damage of your luggage.

AIRPORT: We recommend you arrive to the airport for your check-in at least 3 hours prior to your international flight departure time and 2 hours prior for your domestic flights.

PASSPORT and VISA:

For travel outside the United States U.S. citizens must have valid passports, with an expiration date of at least six months after the scheduled return date. If possible, you should renew your passport approximately 9 months before it expires. Travelers are responsible for ensuring that they have the proper travel documents and MUST CHECK with the respective consulate(s) or visa agency to determine whether any visas are required. Each traveler is responsible for processing any required visas. Please ask the respective consulate for visa processing schedule to ensure you receive your documentation at least 7 days prior to departure. Any information provided pertains to US citizens only. Non-US citizens should check with the respective consulate of the country(s) to be visited for current entry requirements.

A valid Government-issued photo ID is required for all domestic flights within USA. It is suggested that you use a passport for domestic travel as well. Select countries require additional documentation for children under the age of 18 years especially when one parent is traveling without the other parent. Learning Journeys is not responsible for denial of boarding due to passenger negligence and cannot offer assistance on location or at the airport. If a passenger has not met the requirements as stated above and is denied boarding the cost of the tour is fully non-refundable.

NAMES MUST MATCH PASSPORT. The name given on your Learning Journeys booking must match the name on your passport, and in-turn, the name on your air ticket. Any variation between the spelling of your name on your air-ticket and passport will require re-ticketing, often at the cost of a completely new ticket. The airline will deny boarding if your airline ticket does not match your passport. Learning Journeys requires a copy of passengers’ passport be forwarded no later than 95 days prior to departure. Passengers are responsible for providing accurate information including the exact name as listed on the passport, date of birth and passport number. If the information forwarded is incorrect, the passenger will be liable for any change fees which may occur.

FEES FOR CANCELED LAND SERVICES. If you cancel your complete land reservation, the cancellation charges shown below will apply. Cancellation charges are based on the number of days from the time Learning Journeys is notified of your cancellation, to the start of the services provided – whether air and land or just land services. (Some charges may be avoided by your purchasing optional travel insurance explained below).

CANCELLATIONS & COMPLAINTS. We work around-the-clock to ensure your vacation goes smoothly and according to plan. But unexpected problems, often out of our control, can still arise. We urge you to work with us in correcting the problem on the spot instead of dealing with it after you return home. If your program has a tour manager, you are required to work with them to resolve pending issues.

If a cancellation or refund is warranted, it is under the express condition that you release Learning Journeys from all further liability and you thereby waive all additional rights and remedies under this contract or any applicable state, federal or foreign law.

GUESTS NEEDING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a tour member for walking, dining, getting on and off motor coaches and other transportation vehicles, or other personal needs. Travelers who need such assistance must be accompanied by a qualified companion. It is the passenger’s responsibility to travel with a collapsible wheelchair, if needed. Electric wheelchairs are not permitted. Please provide your Learning Journeys Program Manager about any specific dietary needs or any specific issues which may require attention during your program.

GROUND TRANSPORTATION. Deluxe motor coach transportation will be provided to you based on the number of participants in your party. Should the number of participants on any motor coach tour drop below estimated passengers, we reserve the right to operate the tour with a smaller vehicle. Please also note that smaller coaches may not have the same facilities as full-size coaches (no lavatories, TV, etc.). Baggage is limited to one carry on and one suitcase per person. If luggage guidelines are not followed, a second vehicle may be added to accommodate the excess baggage at the passenger’s expense. There are strict laws concerning driver hours on touring coaches that must be always respected. A typical touring day can last 8 hours only. In addition, here are mandatory rest periods during the working day and weekly rest periods depending on the length of the tour.

DELAY CHARGES: If your flight delays cause additional charges for transportation/guides waiting times you will be responsible to pay extra charge on the spot directly to the vendor. If you purchased travel insurance, it may be covered under the policy. We recommend you check with your Travel insurance company on coverage for trip delay.

EXPERIENCES & TRANSFERS: Sightseeing and entrance fees have been included as specified in itinerary. All foreign airport transfers are also included in the land cost unless otherwise requested by the agent. Land arrangements will be provided as described; however, Learning Journeys reserves the right to substitute sightseeing features. Optional add ons and hotel reservations are non-refundable once reserved and paid. If an optional service is canceled by Learning Journey, a refund will be issued.

TIPS AND SERVICE CHARGES: All taxes and service charges levied by the hotels or charged by various governments and municipalities are included. We have not included tips to the restaurants, chambermaids, drivers/guide or escort. Tips to servers, chambermaids and local guides should be left at the time of service. Tour Manager and driver tips should be given at the end of the tour.

Suggest Tipping in USD

Suggested Tipping to be given in the end of each tour:

•Local Guide: $8 for half-day tour and $10 per person for a full day

•Driver: $4 per person per day

•Tour Escort: $10 per person per day

Exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip.

SINGLE ROOMS. Be aware that single rooms are often smaller than double rooms. Ask about a “double room/single use” option at a cost above the normal single supplement.

TRIPLE ROOMS. Available on most tours. They usually consist of a twin bedded room with an additional folding bed or cot for the third person. This may not be comfortable for three adults.

CUSTOMIZED ITINERARY CHANGES. In rare cases scheduled tours maybe cancelled. In such cases Learning Journeys reserves the right to change the scheduled tour itinerary or trip features at any time and for any reason, with or without notice and/or to substitute airlines, hotels or features of a similar category for those listed in the confirmed itinerary. Learning Journeys shall not be held liable for any such changes.

CUSTOMIZED TOUR CANCELLATIONS BY LEARNING JOURNEYS. From time-to-time a tour departure may be cancelled for lack of participation or other operational reasons. In such a case, Learning Journeys sole responsibility is to provide a complete refund of monies received without any other liability whatsoever including any additional costs or fees related to cancellation of airline tickets or other travel reservations not made by Learning Journeys.

Learning Journeys is not responsible for necessary cancellations due acts of government; bites or attacks by animals, insects or pests; sickness; the lack of appropriate medical care; evacuation to same, if necessary; weather; strikes; acts of God; acts of terrorism or the threat thereof; events of force majeure; war; quarantine; epidemics/pandemic or the threat thereof; criminal activity or any other cause beyond the company’s control.

MISCELLANEOUS. Foreign air-conditioning systems in public places, hotels and motor coaches are not up to U.S. standards. If due to weather, flight schedules or other uncontrollable factors, you are required to spend an additional night(s), you will be responsible for your own hotel, transfers and meal costs.

The right is reserved to decline, to accept or retain any person as a member of these trips at any time. In any such event, Learning Journeys’ sole obligation is to refund for any unused accommodations or other trip features. Passenger certifies not to have any mental, physical or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for himself/herself or other passengers.

RESPONSIBILITY. Learning Journeys Ltd. and their employees, shareholders, officers, and directors does not own or operate any entity which goods or services for your trip, including, for example, lodging facilities, transportation companies, guides or trip leaders, food service providers, equipment suppliers, ground operators, etc., including, without limitation, various entities which may utilize the Learning Journeys name. Learning Journeys is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any such person or entity, nor for any act or inaction of any other third party not under its control.

Without limitation Learning Journeys is not liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damage, injury, death, loss, accident, delay, inconvenience, or irregularity of any kind which may be occasioned by reason of any act or omission beyond its control, including, without limitation, any willful or negligent act, failure to act, breach of contract of any third party, such as an airline, train, hotel, restaurant, or food supplier; bus, taxi, van, or local ground handler; local outfitter or guide, which is, to, or does supply any goods or services for this trip.

Learning Journeys is not responsible for any loss, injury, death, or inconvenience due to delay or changes in schedule or failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart safely; overbooking or downgrading of accommodations; insolvency or default of any third party; acts of government; bites or attacks by animals, insects or pests; sickness; the lack of appropriate medical care; evacuation to same, if necessary; weather; strikes; acts of God; acts of terrorism or the threat thereof; events of force majeure; war; quarantine; epidemics/pandemic or the threat thereof; criminal activity or any other cause beyond its control and cancellation policies per the contract will apply.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE WARNINGS. In the case of a government issued warning, we will provide our utmost consideration to the severity of the warning and accomplish everything possible to safeguard the well-being of our passengers. We reserve the right to evaluate each booking on a case-by-case basis for potential refund/cancellation fees, re-scheduling of tours or itineraries and postponements.

BINDING ARBITRATION. I agree that any dispute concerning, relating, or referring to these Terms and Conditions, this release, the catalog, or any other literature concerning my trip, or the trip itself shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration according to the then existing commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association in New York. Such proceedings will be governed by substantive New York law. The arbitrator and not any federal, state, or local court or agency shall have exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, enforceability, conscionability, or formation of this contract, including but not limited to any claim that all or part of this contract is void or voidable. Upon payment of a deposit, tour participant indicates acceptance of the above Terms and Conditions and of the Arbitration Agreement.

NOT INCLUDED: Passports, laundry, food and beverages not listed on the itinerary International Travel Tax and Porterage at U.S. Airports, as well as all other items of a personal nature.

FORMS OF PAYMENT:  CREDIT CARDS.  We accept all major credit cards for the total amount of the cost of the tour.

Please note if you confirm and proceed with your booking you are automatically accepting these Terms and Conditions.

See the REGISTRATION BUTTONS above the Terms & Conditions to secure your place on my 2025 Essence of Bulgaria Exploration!