Meet Your Hosts

  • Hello everyone, I'm Amy Almas, and I'm all about diving into the wonders of travel and soaking up the richness of diverse cultures. But my journey extends far beyond the realms of exploration—I bring with me 27 years of experience as a mental health therapist and the deeply personal understanding gained from being a caregiver.

    Whether I'm indulging in the flavors of street food at bustling markets, getting lost in the quiet charm of a remote village, or simply enjoying the beauty of what the world has to offer, I thrive on experiencing life's rich moments. It's from this tapestry of experiences that the Caregiver’s Retreat was born—a retreat crafted with love, empathy, and a profound understanding of the human spirit.

    At Blissful Retreats, I offer more than just a break from the chaos of daily life. It's a sanctuary where caregivers like yourself can find solace, support, and a much-needed respite from the demands of caregiving. My goal is to create an atmosphere where you can travel to new destinations, de-stress, swap stories, share laughs, create new memories, and maybe plan your next adventure—all while feeling understood and supported every step of the way.

    So if you are yearning for a break, some peace, and a dash of exploration, you're in the right spot.

    Warmest regards,

    Amy Almas

  • Hi there, I’m Heidi Hay, the fun side of me is being a travel junkie whose passion for getaways knows no bounds. For me, traveling isn’t just a hobby—it’s my happy place, a source of soul-nourishment, and a means to recharge my internal batteries. With each destination I visit, I leave with treasured memories that last a lifetime, from the people I meet to the breathtaking scenery. Now, I’m thrilled to share my love for travel by inviting you to join our retreats.

    Designed to transport you to a calm, peaceful, happy place, these retreats offer the perfect opportunity to recharge while forging connections that can withstand the test of time. Embark on a journey with me and discover the transformative power of travel firsthand.

    Now that you know the fun side of me, meet the side that thrives off her family. The greatest honor of my life was when I became a mom to my amazing sons. I’m a proud wife to my husband Jimmy after 24 years of marriage, he couldn’t be any luckier, ha!

    Another honor came in an unexpected turn of events, I found myself brought into a role I never imagined I would undertake – that of a caregiver for my dad battling Stage 4 metastatic bladder cancer. I was living in Atlanta, and he was living in Pittsburgh. His Oncologist told him he would not make it to the following year. I had moved my dad to Atlanta to take care of him. For the ensuing four years, I became not just a daughter, but a relentless caregiver. Despite the passing of time, my dad surpassed the bleak timeline predicted by his medical team. Yet, the extension came with its own burdens – a compromised quality of life that weighed heavily on him.

    Balancing the demands of my own family, managing our household, and working a full-time career, I stepped into the role of caregiver with unwavering determination. Through the trials and tribulations, there were moments when tears blurred my outlook. But within me, I found the strength to push forward when I felt I had nothing more to give.

    I realized that my dad was my inspiration, he was always my hero. His trust in me to safeguard his well-being remains a testament to the enduring bond between us. Because I cared for him, I discovered the true measure of strength – the capacity a heart can endure, to love, and to persevere, even in the face of unimaginable odds. Today, as I think back on this journey of love and sacrifice, I am humbled by the lessons it taught me. Though my dad is no longer here, his legacy of resilience and trust continues to guide me daily.

    The experience I had while caring for my dad has inspired me to become a source of support and guidance for others in similar caregiver roles. Having navigated through the various stressors, highs, and lows, I understand the journey intimately. By offering assistance to others, I hope to honor my dad’s memory and our unique journey together.

    Keep shining- Heidi