Trish Clark is the former owner and manager of a highly successful travel marketing business in Australia. She has traveled extensively, including to Europe, Asia and the USA. She has stayed in many convents and monasteries in Europe over the years, and continues to do so. She has five adult children and lives in Sydney with her husband.
Ever Slept in a Bishop’s Bedchamber?
Good Night and God Bless is the modern traveler s Bible. This unique guide lists details of atmospheric and affordable accommodation in convents, monasteries, abbeys and Christian hotels across Europe. It is aimed at tourists and travelers seeking a unique experience as well as those pursuing a pilgrimage or religious retreat.
Most of these alternative accommodations are run by various mainstream Christian religious denominations. Religious orders have traditionally offered hospitality as part of their ministry and a bed and a bite to eat was provided for the cost of a donation. However, these days offering hospitality has become a means of survival. Taking in overnight guests is a practical way for religious orders to raise revenue and a cheap, safe, clean and often well-located accommodation option for travelers.
The book appeals not only for its quirky, eye catching, pick me up title but equally and more importantly for its very concept. It is an informal and user-friendly travel guide which brings together tantalizing cultural tidbits and tourist trivia amidst the popular and sometimes controversial, but always fascinating, backdrop of history and religion.
The Guide to Lodging in Italy’s Monasteries
“Monasteries,” Barish writes, “are an integral part of Italy’s history and heritage and symbolize the incredibly diverse Italian culture.” By conducting extensive research at each monastery, Barish has compiled a directory of detailed, precise information for a unique Italian experience: an inexpensive travel alternative to staying in big-name hotels. Each listing provides a history of the monastery, its artwork, and products as well as local events. The travel informationAaccommodations, amenities, cost, directions by car/train/plane, and contact names and addressesAis clearly written. Barish also adds a personal touch by including reservation form letters written in English and Italian. The photographs accompanying each listing are enticing and breathtakingly beautiful. More detailed and easier to use than June and Anne Walsh’s Bed and Blessings Italy: A Guide to Convents and Monasteries Available for Overnight Lodging (LJ 11/15/98), this directory is highly recommended for public libraries.AStephanie Papa, Baltimore Cty. Circuit Court Lib.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc. –This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Staying at an Italian monastery is an exceptional experience that allows travelers to enjoy an unspoiled, more traditional Italy. For about $30 a day — often including meals — a monastery vacation is filled with Italys rich history, spectacular architecture and quaint local customs. Although Europeans have long enjoyed this inexpensive alternative to costly hotels, the unique opportunity of staying in a monastery is relatively unknown. Now, American tourists have access to this remarkable resource. The comprehensive, new third edition is the key to planning an unforgettable adventure that combines true value with gracious hosts. “All monasteries revisited for up-to-date information “Monastery websites and email for easy reservations “Dozens of new institutions added “Over 200 monasteries in separate section for retreats Plus: “Complete contact information including phone & fax “Italian and English reservation form letters “Driving and public transportation directions
Highly recommended. — Library Journal
This guide will intrigue travelers on a strict budget looking for a holiday with a twist. — Budget Traveler
