Our March 2025 Indian Odyssey tour from Delhi to Agra, Rajasthani cities and the village of Narlai was a perfect tour for us with many highlights along the way, not least of which was the Taj Mahal. An exemplary tour, starting with Jacqui and Shimon's yoga and meditation most mornings at daybreak, then immersing in the culture and splendours that India has to offer, culminating in a candlelight dinner at an ancient stepwell. Our tour guide Sunny was a wealth of information whose humour and love for India was contagious.

Indian Odyssey with Jacqui and Shimon was our introduction to amazing India. Travelling with two people who truly love India and our wonderful guide was an exciting adventure that enabled us to enjoy the magnificence of India and appreciate its complexity. We travelled in comfort and felt secure everywhere we went. Yoga on a roof top in the evening with the silvery moon above, or in the peace and stillness of the early morning was so special. We are novices to yoga, but with our yoga masters guiding us we loved our sessions. Another highlight was the relationship with the other members of the group. We shared our experiences. photos and shopping bargains and enjoyed the wonderful food. These relationships were built through the culture of gentle joy and care that Jacqui and Shimon bought to the group.

Our trip to India in March 2025 was nothing short of extraordinary. From the vibrant chaos of Delhi to the majestic beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra - each stop offered its own unique magic. We stayed in the most stunning 5-star heritage hotels, each steeped in history and elegance, adding a touch of royal luxury to our journey. Every detail of the trip was meticulously organised, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience without a single worry. Each day was filled with unforgettable moments—visits to architectural wonders, local encounters, delicious food, and vibrant markets. And to make it all even more special, daily yoga sessions with truly amazing Jacqui and Shimon brought a sense of grounding and renewal to our adventure. It was the perfect balance of exploration and inner peace. This journey through some of India’s most treasured and iconic destinations was not just a trip—it was a deeply enriching experience we will cherish forever.

An invigorating escape to a place whose remoteness defies the ease of the short flight it took us from Moorabbin. Jacqui & Shimon’s deep attachment to King Island was obvious from the great care they took immersing us in the natural beauty of the places they love, while looking after our every comfort including delicious meals of local produce. Several weeks on, I continue to be amazed how often I reflect back on my experience of practicing Yoga, Meditation in this pristine environment – I wholeheartedly recommend a retreat with Jacqui & Shimon for the warmth and meticulous care they extend to their Guests.

I am 65 years old and spent 7 years travelling in my twenties, my best and most interesting tour was in 1979 travelling through the Eastern Block i.e. Russia, Poland, East Germany etc. I can now put this trip to India up there, it will be a trip I will remember for the rest of my life along with the Russian trip. I would highly recommend any one wanting to travel to India this trip, you will not be disappointed.

This trip exceeded my expectations. I was able to fully immerse myself in this adventure knowing that every detail was taken care of. Claire, Jacqui and Shimon are the exemplary hosts. I higly recommend this trip to anyone especially if you want to be supported in your India trip.

An exceptional experience to travel through a fascinating but seldom visited part of India - I just loved the invigorating hikes, our daily yoga practice and the warm welcomes we received wherever we went.

You are to be congratulated on organising and facilitating an authentic and fun immersion yoga experience in a holy yoga destination. This coupled with world class yoga instructors ensured we had a memorable and enriching experience.

Healesville Yoga Retreat 23 – 25 February 24: Such a testament to you both Shimon & Jacqui!! A really uplifting weekend of yoga, connection and self awareness  .. there is something intangibly wonderful about the way you both approach life and your practice and I felt very privileged to be a part of it .. taking so much away with me from those few days, along with new friendships and a renewed energy for my own yoga.

Well, I had a mediocre dull time on this trip !!! Said NO-ONE 😂😂 Indian Odyssey “25 was the best Yoga retreat I have ever been on & I have attended a few… This trip was full of wonder, culture, awe inspiring sights, amazing food, beautiful accommodation , eye opening experiences 🤪,the skills of tradesman (Jewellers, marble sculptors, Persian rug makers) & the architecture 🤯 it has left me photographic memory completely full 😂. The most wonderful thing was meeting the diverse group of people who came together through Yoga , my soul sister Anna, Sunny our guide was brilliant & all the interesting people from all walks of life, who bought something special to the table, & made the whole trip so enjoyable 👏 A special thankyou to you two -Jacqui & Shimon for your Yoga adjusts & guidance 🙏 love & harmony

I was very fortunate to join a group of like minded travellers who were seeking an adventure, together with a yoga practice experience. Jacqui and Shimon were our guides, experts in offering the perfect balance in both, when we visited India last year. Everything was arranged with great attention to detail so any queries or concerns were addressed before we embarked on our journey. Throughout the two weeks, Jacqui and Shimon presented yoga classes to work around our travels. We practiced yoga on rooftop alfresco areas, on lawns by infinity pools and in majestic ballrooms. They were always encouraging and informative with no pressure to work beyond your capabilities. This gentle leadership instilled a camaraderie amongst the group and, even though I knew no one except my travelling companion, we all supported and enjoyed each other’s company immensely throughout the trip, making lovely connections that enhanced the extraordinary experience that visiting India entails. For an amazing travelling adventure you could not find a more satisfying way to venture through this incredible continent. Thank you Jacqui and Shimon.

The tour to India in October 2024 was superb. The scenery was spectacular, we ate delicious meals and stayed in extraordinary boutique accommodation. Jacquie and Shimon led the group in their typical calm, gentle and caring style. Numerous opportunities for yoga and meditation were provided. Essence of India Tours engaged interesting and knowledgeable guides. Their attention to detail ensured safety, comfort and an overall top class experience.