Quiet Destinations--Escaping the Holiday Chaos

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

22 Nov 2007 04:36 PM

Tomorrow is Black Friday. A time when shopping bags, elbows, expletives, and in some cases, even fists fly. If you are looking to escape from the midnight mall madness, the customer-driven craziness, and the all encompassing chaos that accompanies the official kick-off to the holiday shopping season then consider traveling to northwest Missouri.

That's where you'll find Conception Abbey, one of several Roman Catholic Benedictine monasteries around the world that are open to groups and individuals looking for a safe haven to reflect, pray, meditate or simply escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life (especially during the Christmas season).

Before you roll your eyes and quit reading consider this: Destinations like Conception Abbey and retreat options (religious and otherwise) are growing in popularity, according to a new travel survey.

Believe it or not there are some people who actually seek out vacation destinations where cellphone service doesn't exist. Generally speaking, retreats are not technically categorized under the heading "vacation," mainly because these days vacations can be more grueling than daily life. At a retreat, the goal is to relish the silence and cherish doing nothing.

At Conception Abbey, which is also home to 65 monks, guests can participate in guided group retreats, but according to staff there, most travelers come to soak in the bucolic setting, roam the grassy path around little Lake Placid, walk the wooded trail that includes the Stations of the Cross, and simply enjoy the peace and quiet.

Accommodations at the Abbey are simple. Most rooms consist of two twin beds, a few shelves, and a toilet and sink shared with the room next door. Showers are located down the hall from the bedrooms. Meals are shared in the guest dining room. The simplicity comes with an affordable price tag. A single room costs about $25 a night during the week. You'll pay an additional $5 a night if you visit on the weekend. Also, if you choose to dine with the monks, you'll pay about $7 a meal. Reservations are required. Tours of the abbey grounds, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the Abbey's "printery" - where cards, calendars and books are made - will set you back $10.

For more information on the Abbey or to make a reservation click here.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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