Death and D’Nile

About the Retreat

Step into the tomb of one of the ancient Pharaohs and let your senses be stilled by the presence of hands and bodies that moved circa 3000 years ago.

The ancient Egyptians memorialise a system that credits the individual their place within the universal. It is a society that venerates the natural world, however one of firm hierarchy where the god-king is exalted by the labour of the many. Engravings in temple walls bear witness to a hard stomach when it comes to brutality towards the ‘other’?

How are we different, at this current apex or nadir of our civilisation?

Proximity to one of western civilisation’s birthplaces is the  backdrop for this small, intimate NGV gathering of 14 people.

Following our ‘plague’ and looking back with the possibility that our civilisation may be near its end, we will take stock of where we are in our relationships – with ourselves, with significant others, with our values, and with the world.

We may find our own way to grieve, to ‘ceremonise’ what is past or passing.

We invite you to come alone or bring those with whom you want to spend a special experience.

Most mornings there will be optional trips to nearby tombs and temples including the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Hatshepsut’s Temple, Luxor and Karnak Temples, Temples at Abydos and Dendera. We will have access to some tombs not open to tourists.

We will sit as a group in the late afternoon/evening, and then eat together after the sun has set.

People in Egypt have been hurt by the lack of tourism due to Covid. We see this trip as a way of contributing to the local economy. We take seriously our responsibility for the planet however, and want to create a space for feelings that this might bring up.

Accommodation

We will be accommodated in two houses with outside space on Luxor’s rural West Bank. One has a swimming pool and looks out onto sugarcane fields. The other overlooks Medinet Habu Temple and the rocky outcrop that is home to the Valleys of the Kings and Queens. You’ll wake up to the huff of hot air balloons firing over the desert, or the 5am muezzin.

Houses are within easy walking distance of each other, and close to local cafes and restaurants.

Rooms are shared – either single beds or doubles available.

Most evenings Adham our local host will pick up provisions and we’ll cook together.

Cost

(includes 7 days accommodation & food, all activities and transport for excursions plus airport or transport pickup)

Early bird (before 28th Feb 2021) – £500

Full price from 1st March to 30th Sept £590

TO BOOK PLEASE CONTACT JOHN@NEWGESTALTVOICES.ORG

Refund Policy

Full refund up to 31st July 2021
Full refund minus £150 deposit up to 30th Sept 2021
Refund minus actual costs incurred after 30th Sept 2021