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let Your Journey Begin

Based on Elizabeth Gilbert's best-selling memoir, the film Eat Pray Love tells the story of a modern woman who seemingly has everything, yet leaves it all to search for what she really wants in life. Her journey of self-discovery takes her around the world, where she regains the true pleasure of eating in Italy, unearths the power of prayer in India, and finally achieves the unexpected inner peace and balance of true love in Bali. From the ambitious streets of New York City to her unique experiences in Rome, India and Bali, viewers will be immersed in a personal celebration of travel in a way that is sure to inspire many to embark on their own adventures.

Eat Pray Love opens nationwide in US theaters on August 13. Go to www.letyourselfgo.com to watch the official trailer and find out more about the film.

Italy :: eat

'Tutti a tavola!' ('Everyone to the table!') is one command every Italian heeds without question. Here is our select sampling to get you started with Italy's national obsession: eating.

Gelato – Our vote for the most glorious gelato? Rome takes the pot, and we recommend you eat your way across the city, starting at gelateria Alberto Pica, which features flavors such as fragolini de bosco (wild strawberry) and petali di rosa (rose petal).

Pizza – We wouldn't dare limit ourselves, but if Naples is on your itinerary, don't miss out on its most famous import: pizza margherita. Remember, when it comes to Italian pizza, 'more is less' in terms of ingredients: allow your palate to truly savor the delectable flavors.

Cooking courses – One of the best ways to fully experience Italian culture and cuisine is by getting into the kitchen yourself – plus, you'll really take home a piece of Italia! Top of the list for gastronomic towns is Bologna: we recommend La Vecchia Scuola Bolognese, which offers courses in English ranging from four hours to a full week.

India :: pray

For those seeking spiritual sustenance, India has myriad sacred sites and stirring philosophical epics. Even if taking a vow of silence at an ashram isn't your style, there are still experiences and places that will fill your soul.

Varanasi – Few places in India are as colorful, charismatic or spiritual as the bathing ghats (steps) lining the Ganges in Varanasi. Take a soothing dawn boat ride and feel the beating heart of the Hindu universe, a crossing place between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Taj Mahal – Many have tried to sum up its beauty. 'A teardrop on the face of eternity,' wrote Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore. 'The embodiment of all things pure,' thought British writer Rudyard Kipling. This architectural masterpiece and monument to love will take your breath away.

Study in Jaipur – With its stunning hilltop forts and glorious palaces, Rajasthan's gateway city just might be the place with a little something for everyone. From a ten-day meditation course to early-morning yoga instruction, opportunities for spiritual study surround you.

India :: pray

Ask travelers what Bali means to them and you'll get as many answers as there are flowers on a frangipani tree. Rich in visual beauty and blanketed with exquisite little offerings to the gods that materialize as if by magic, Bali will leave you with a sense of well-being and a happy heart.

Ubud – Before it was a mecca for finding love, Ubud attracted people for its focus on the remarkable Balinese culture in its myriad forms. Get in the mood at Three Monkeys restaurant with dreamy tables overlooking a rice field, mellow music and art, and an Asian fusion menu that can be addictive.

Nusa Lembongan – This delightfully laid-back island off the southern coast is free of cars, motorcycle noise and hassles, and packed with gorgeous, sugar-white sand beaches and protected bays. What's not to love?

Get in the water – Take your pick from two of Bali's main attractions – surfing and diving – and jump in! Still haven't had enough? Abundant spas offer fragrant massages that will transport you to just about any state of mind you want.

Ready To Go

For more information, eye-popping images and trip-planning tools, see our online destination guides: Italy, India, Bali
 

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