Jesuit Retreat Center Ignatian Pilgrimage 2024:
Friends of the Jesuit Retreat Center will travel together in the footsteps of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.
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Friday – June 14, 2024
We'll gather at the Jesuit Retreat House and embark on a coach journey to Toronto. There we catch our direct flight to Madrid.
Saturday – June 15, 2024 - Madrid
Upon landing in Madrid, we'll acquaint ourselves with Spain's cosmopolitan capital through a walking tour. This immersive experience will lead us through historic plazas like Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, where Spanish history comes alive amid charming architecture. We'll celebrate the Sunday Vigil Mass and dine together before much needed sleep.
Sunday – June 16, 2024 – Segovia & Avila Day Trip
Today, we depart from Madrid for a day of exploration in Segovia and Avila. Our journey begins in Segovia, where we'll marvel at the Roman Aqueduct and see the impressive Alcázar of Segovia. In the afternoon, we'll head to Avila to walk the Camino Teresiano, visit the Convento de Santa Teresa de Jesús, and admire the historic Avila walls before returning to Madrid in the evening.
Monday – June 17, 2024 - Madrid Exploration
We start with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid and Madrid Cathedral. Then, we stroll Plaza Mayor, savor cuisine at Mercado de San Miguel, and explore the renowned Prado Museum. Dinner with wine pairings at an Argentinian Steakhouse awaits.
Tuesday – June 18, 2024 - Journey to San Sebastian via Burgos
En route to San Sebastian, we will stop in Burgos. The group will visit the Cathedral of Saint Mary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This evening you will arrive in San Sebastian, a Basque resort town renowned for its beaches and cuisine.
Wednesday – June 19, 2024 - Santuario de Loyola
Rise and shine because today we will visit the Santuario de Loyola! It is a quick journey from San Sebastian to Ignatius' home town. Here, we'll see the beautiful mountains of the Basque countryside as well as the Holy House of Saint Ignatius. The group will visit Loyola Castle and celebrate Mass in the Conversion Chapel and share reflections in the place that shaped and formed Íñigo López de Loyola.
This afternoon you will return to San Sebastian. Nestled in Spain's Basque Country, this town enchants tourists with its stunning beaches and world-renowned culinary scene. Explore the picturesque old town, relax on sandy shores, and savor exquisite Basque cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Thursday – June 20, 2024 - Day Trip to Pamplona and Wine Tasting
Embark on an unforgettable day trip from San Sebastian to Pamplona, a city steeped in history and made famous by Hemingway. Our journey begins as we explore the site where Saint Ignatius was injured by a cannonball, a place of great significance in his spiritual journey. Pamplona's charming streets, immortalized in Hemingway's writings, await your discovery. After a delightful lunch featuring Navarre's traditional cuisine, we'll venture to a local vineyard in the Navarre wine region. There, you'll immerse yourself in the world of Spanish winemaking with a guided tour and a wine tasting session. As the day draws to a close, we'll return to San Sebastian.
Friday – June 21, 2024 - Barcelona
Say goodbye to San Sebastian and travel today to Barcelona! Upon arrival in Barcelona we will check into our hotel and explore the Passeig de Gracia.
Saturday – June 22, 2024 - Barcelona Gaudi Tour
A guided tour of Barcelona includes some famous Gaudi sites, including admission to Park Güell .
Sunday – June 23, 2024 - Barcelona's Sagrada Familia and Santa Maria del Mar
Celebrate Sunday Mass at Gaudi's Sagrada Familia during the International Mass. This afternoon enjoy independent exploration in Barcelona, with an optional visit to Santa Maria del Mar, where St. Ignatius sought alms for his Holy Land journey.
Monday – June 23, 2024 - Montserrat and Manresa
Our pilgrimage reaches its peak as we visit Montserrat and Manresa. At Montserrat, we'll see the sanctuary and pray at the Black Madonna. In Manresa, visit the cave where St. Ignatius formulated the Spiritual Exercises, pray by the River Cardoner, and celebrate Mass. We conclude with a special farewell dinner.
Tuesday – June 24, 2024
Depart for the airport for your return flight to North America.
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* All places listed on the itinerary will be visited, but the sequence is subject to change
Tour Cost: $3699 + Airfare
The airfare related expenses from Northeast Ohio will be approximately $1200.
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The land costs are fixed. We have secured an excellent group flight option on Air Canada from Toronto, Canada to Madrid. Those who opt for the group flight will depart from the Jesuit Retreat House in Parma, Ohio and make the 5 hour journey to Toronto to catch a direct flight to Madrid. Upon the return from Barcelona, the group will transfer back from Toronto Pearson Airport to the JRH. This option will save participants approximately $600-$1000 per person.
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If you book your own flight, you are responsible for your own airport transfers. Upon your arrival in Spain you will join with the group at the hotel according to your own timetable.
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Optional Trip Protection Plan:
We are offering a Trip Protection Plan for $450. This will allow you to cancel for any reason up to 45 days before travel. On day 44 before travel, you will revert back to the standard Cancellation Policy in the Terms & Conditions and $250 will be credited back to your account. You will be contacted approximately 60 days in advance and be offered a final opportunity to Opt-Out. If you Opt-Out of your tour for 45 days or more, you will be fully refunded less the $450 from the Trip Protection Plan. If you choose to remain committed to your tour $250 will be credited toward your final payment. This coverage only applies to monies paid toward this tour.
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Payment deadlines:
1. $750 Deposit due within 10 days of registration
2. Friday, January 12, 2024 - $1500 is due
3. Friday, March 22, 2024 - $1449
4. Friday, May 10, 2024- Airfare is due
* There will be $125 credit applied to the final payment if all payments are made by check.
What is included?
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Group transfers and all ground transportation
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The assistance of a bilingual (Spanish/English) Jesuit who will guide at Ignatian Sites
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10 nights in centrally located 3 or 4-star hotels
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Winery visit and tasting
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Entrance Fees to sites on itinerary
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All Excursion Fees
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Daily breakfast and 6 upscale dinners with wine
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Helpful Hints and Travel Confirmation webpage for all participants
What's not included?
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Airfare and coach to Toronto (estimated around $1200)
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Lunch and 4 independent dinners
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Tips for bus driver and guides
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Travel Medical Insurance
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Cancel for Any Reason Insurance and/or Trip Protection Plan
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The cost is based on double-occupancy. There is a $1000 supplement for a single rooms
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How do I sign-up?
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The registration process is completed online. Click "Register Here" to sign-up!
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If you have any questions, email us using the link below and we will have an associate contact you.
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