As the middle of August approaches, I’m about to embark on an incredible journey that has been in the making for a long time. My adventure begins in Berlin, and I will be cycling across Europe, taking a route filled with spiritual and transformative experiences that I believe will be deeply meaningful.
First Leg: Berlin to Amsterdam
The journey kicks off in Berlin, where I’ll head west towards Amsterdam. This part of the route will set the tone for my travels, as I explore the landscapes and cultures that lie between these two vibrant cities.
From Amsterdam to the Atlantic Coast
Leaving Amsterdam, I’ll follow the coastline southwards, hugging the Atlantic as I make my way towards the iconic Mont Saint-Michel in France. The coastal winds and the rhythm of the ocean will guide me, offering a serene backdrop as I begin to distance myself from the familiar.
A Spiritual Stop: Taizé Community
After reaching Mont Saint-Michel, I’ll turn inland, cycling through the heart of France. My destination is Taizé, a place of profound spiritual significance. I plan to spend a week at the Taizé Community, participating in the weekly meetings for young adults aged 18 to 35. This community is dedicated to living in prayerful communion with God and taking responsibility as agents of peace and trust within the human family. Through communal prayer, song, silence, and personal reflection, I hope to open myself to the presence of God, find inner peace, and recharge my spiritual energy. I believe this will be a powerful and transformative experience for me.
Southward to the Mediterranean
From Taizé, I’ll continue my journey south, passing through Lyon and Avignon before reaching the Mediterranean Sea. The route will take me through Montpellier, after which I will cross into Spain, following the Mediterranean coastline past cities like Barcelona and Valencia, down to Malaga and finally Gibraltar. The landscapes, cultures, and people I will encounter along this stretch will be diverse and enriching, offering countless opportunities for learning and growth.
Tamera: A Beacon of Peace in Portugal
After crossing into Portugal, my next major stop will be Tamera, a community deeply engaged in global systemic change. Known for its work in peace-building, healing, and sustainable living, Tamera is a place I’ve long wanted to visit. I’ll be spending time here during the “Golden Autumn in Community,” a period that combines harvest work with community activities, allowing me to engage deeply with the residents and their mission. I’ve heard from many that Tamera is a magical place, and I’m eager to experience its unique energy for myself.
Final European Destination: Ram Dass Guru Ashram in Lisbon
From Tamera, I’ll ride along the Portuguese Atlantic coast until I reach Lisbon. There, I plan to spend several weeks at the Ram Dass Guru Ashram, focusing on my spiritual practice. The ashram offers a Seva program, where community work is intertwined with spiritual growth through regular activities like Sadhanas, Kirtans, and Yoga classes. This experience will be a beautiful conclusion to my European journey, as I deepen my spiritual practice before moving on to the next leg of my adventure.
Crossing the Atlantic: The Next Challenge
After Lisbon, the next challenge will be crossing the Atlantic. My preferred option would be to do this by cruise ship from Lisbon to Florida. Unfortunately, sailing across the Atlantic on a smaller vessel is not feasible due to logistical issues, such as the need to start from island locations like the Balearics or the Canaries and the difficulty of transporting my bicycle. If the cruise ship option doesn’t work out, I may need to fly, although this is not my first choice.
Looking Ahead: Packing List and Final Preparations
In addition to sharing my route, I will soon be posting my detailed packing list. I’ve spent considerable time selecting the right gear for this journey, and I’m excited to share the essentials that will accompany me on this adventure. Stay tuned for this upcoming post, where I’ll dive into the specifics of what I’m bringing and why.
This journey is the beginning of something much larger than just a physical adventure; it’s a path of self-discovery and spiritual growth. I’m excited to share every step of it with you.
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