Proper preparation is key to an enjoyable trip.
Preparing for your adventure is part of the excitement of travel. When you register, you'll receive your Registration and Orientation Packet, which will include the detailed itinerary, reading list, and packing list from this website, plus more detailed information, in a handy printable format. Spend some time exploring the Soul Treks preparation recommendations, which includes training & fitness tips, and other resources to get you 100% prepared for our adventure!
If you have questions, we invite you to CONTACT US. We’re eager and ready to help you prepare for your trip of a lifetime.
If you have questions, we invite you to CONTACT US. We’re eager and ready to help you prepare for your trip of a lifetime.
Training Tips
A trip such as this calls for good health, good conditioning, and a large measure of flexibility, in both body and mind. The more you walk or undertake some form of aerobic exercise before your trip begins, the more you'll enjoy your experience. The happiest participants will be the ones who have spent time building their physical stamina before leaving home.
Be in good shape for hiking and be ready for back-to-back active days.
We suggest that you prepare for your tour by incorporating some form of cardio exercise, 2-3 times weekly, for at least 6 weeks before your trip starts. Begin each activity with 5-10 minutes of stretching to prevent injury.
Remember to dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and protect yourself from the sun. Throughout, drink plenty of water so that you stay well-hydrated.
If possible, walk on varying terrain and hills. If you live in a flat area, try walking on a treadmill that has incline capability, or incorporate stairs into your exercise regimen. Even our easiest days include climbing up (or down) on trails and paths.
When training for walks on hilly terrain, you may wish to use walking sticks. Maintain a steady, but comfortable, pace— and don’t hesitate to stop for frequent breaks.
Be in good shape for hiking and be ready for back-to-back active days.
We suggest that you prepare for your tour by incorporating some form of cardio exercise, 2-3 times weekly, for at least 6 weeks before your trip starts. Begin each activity with 5-10 minutes of stretching to prevent injury.
Remember to dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and protect yourself from the sun. Throughout, drink plenty of water so that you stay well-hydrated.
If possible, walk on varying terrain and hills. If you live in a flat area, try walking on a treadmill that has incline capability, or incorporate stairs into your exercise regimen. Even our easiest days include climbing up (or down) on trails and paths.
When training for walks on hilly terrain, you may wish to use walking sticks. Maintain a steady, but comfortable, pace— and don’t hesitate to stop for frequent breaks.
Getting the Most out of Your European Vacation Time
We highly recommend making your Soul Treks trip part of a longer vacation—you've already invested in the airfare, so it makes sense.
In particular, we suggest that you come to Europe early and give yourself time to visit another spot on your Destination Bucket List (Athens? Barcelona? Provence? Bruges? The Amalfi Coast?) before coming to Crete.
This will give your body a chance to adjust to the time zone changes, and you'll be fresh and alert for the hikes that are the highlight of the Soul Treks experience.
Arrive in Chania, Crete, at least the day before our Soul Treks departure. Stay in a hotel on the Old Harbor and you'll be within walking distance of our initial meet-up on the first morning. Leave some of your luggage in storage at your hotel, and plan to stay there again the night after our return to Chania at the end of the trip.
In particular, we suggest that you come to Europe early and give yourself time to visit another spot on your Destination Bucket List (Athens? Barcelona? Provence? Bruges? The Amalfi Coast?) before coming to Crete.
This will give your body a chance to adjust to the time zone changes, and you'll be fresh and alert for the hikes that are the highlight of the Soul Treks experience.
Arrive in Chania, Crete, at least the day before our Soul Treks departure. Stay in a hotel on the Old Harbor and you'll be within walking distance of our initial meet-up on the first morning. Leave some of your luggage in storage at your hotel, and plan to stay there again the night after our return to Chania at the end of the trip.