Sample Schedule

(DATE)

3:00 pm
Check in time for the Hotel Correra. There are no planned activities until our Group Meeting at 6:00 pm this evening. (To overcome jet lag, we recommend that you arrange on your own to arrive at least one day earlier.)

6:00 pm
Orientation meeting. Please make every effort to arrive on time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, be sure to inform the hotel or us directly (contact numbers will be provided.)

There will be an optional group dinner this evening in the historic city center of Naples.

Overnight at Hotel Correra.

(DATE)

7:30 – 8:45 am
Breakfast at Hotel

9:00 am
Today we head off by private transport with our local guide to visit the famed site of Pompeii at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, one of Italy’s best-known sites. After our guided tour, we will head to Sorrento for lunch. Then it’s off to our accommodation in the beautiful and tranquil town of Nerano.

6:00 – 7:30 pm
Dinner. For the duration of our trip we will stay at our “hotel within a villa”
which offers all the amenities and personal attention of a first class
hotel, but with the exclusivity, serenity, and comfort of a private
villa.

7:30 – 9:00 pm
Free evening to settle in and get a good night sleep.

(DATE)

7:00 – 8:45 am
Breakfast (Massages will be scheduled throughout today)

9:00 – 11:00 am
Writing workshop with Lisa Fugard

11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Lunch

1:00 – 3:00 pm
Gary Finnan (Evoke Your Essence)

3:00 – 6:00 pm
Free time, write, swim or explore

6:00 – 7:30 pm
Dinner
7:30 – 9:00 pm
Group Session (Share writing with each other in a positive and supportive environment.)

(DATE)

7:00 – 8:45 am
Breakfast

9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Gastronomical Tour Day at local farms: We will spend today in nature, get to know the culture and taste the local products of Schiazzano, which boasts a spectacular view over the Gulf of Napoli. First we get a guided tour of the lemon tree grounds. There, we will see the authentic lemon, Ovale di Sorrento, used to make the famous liqueur, Limoncello. We will taste lemon products such as lemon juice, slice of lemon with sugar, and olive products such as olive oil, oil with taste of lemon and orange, each on a slice of homemade bread. After our visit to the lemon farm, we then tour a cattle farm that shows the production of caciottina cheese, fresh mozzarella and provolone del Monaco cheese. We get to taste their cheese, salami and local wine. Then it’s time for lunch. We will participate in making real Neapolitan pizza for lunch, including dessert and espresso coffee. Finally we return to the lemon farm to taste freshly made Limoncello before returning to our Retreat Villa.

6:00 – 7:30 pm
Dinner

7:30 – 9:00 pm
To be determined depending on the energy of the group after our day on the land.

(DATE)

7:00 – 8:45 am
Breakfast

9:00 – 11:00 am
Writing workshop with Lisa Fugard

11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Lunch

1:00 – 3:00 pm
Building your platform with Julie Colvin

3:00 – 6:00 pm
Free time, write, swim or explore

6:00 – 7:30 pm
Dinner

7:30 – 9:00 pm
Group Session (Share our writing with each other in a positive and supportive environment.)

(DATE)

7:00 – 8:45 am
Breakfast

9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Boat excursion to explore beautiful Positano, the magical seaside town that has charmed visitors for centuries with its unique coastline dotted with hidden caves, secluded beaches. We’ll get picked up by boat right in Nerano’s “Marina del Cantonein” and cruise around the coastline with time to swim in the nicest corners of the Sorrento Coast.

6:00 – 7:30 pm
Dinner

7:30 – 9:00 pm
Free Night

(DATE)

7:00 – 8:45 am
Breakfast

9:00 – 11:00 am
Writing workshop with Lisa Fugard

11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Lunch

1:00 – 3:00 pm
Applying your Essence to a Balanced Life with Gary Finnan

3:00 – 6:00 pm
Free time, write, swim or explore

6:00 – 7:30 pm
Dinner

7:30 – 9:00 pm
Group Session (Share our writing with each other in a positive and supportive environment.)

(DATE)

7:00 – 8:45 am
Breakfast

9:00 am
Transport to Naples Airport provided.

It is recommended that you plan a flight home AFTER 4:00 PM on Friday, Sept. 25th, to give you enough time to arrive to the airport.

The writing workshops will be more closely structured and created once we have evaluated the needs of the writers in our group.

Scheduling changes in this itinerary might occur depending on weather or other unforeseen issues.

Download the Schedule PDF File

Sample Menu

This menu has no peanuts, no soy, no legumes. We also provide vegan and gluten free options.

Breakfast Each Day
7:00 – 8:45 am

Choose from homemade biscuits, cakes, fruit rusks with jam. Eggs, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, milk, coffee or tea

Saturday, September 19

Welcome Dinner
6:00 pm

• Bruschetta with tomato, garlic and basil
• Zucchini scapece with vinegar, garlic, extra virgin olive oil
• Eggplant rolls stuffed with bread crumbs
• Pumpkin risotto with parsley & chili
• Seafood rice
• Salty pizza stuffed with escarole and black olives
• Dessert
• Chocolate cake – Limoncello & coffee or tea

Sunday, September 20

Lunch
11:45– 1:00 pm

• Grilled Tuna and Provolone Sandwiches with Salsa Verde
• Grilled Pepper Panzanella
• Tomato Basil Soup
• Tea or coffee

Dinner
6:00 – 7:30 pm

• Eggplant, zucchini, peppers, pumpkin on the grill
• Pasta with fresh tomato and basil or pasta with artichokes and onion (gluten-free pasta is available)
• Spaghetti with seafood (shrimp & scallops) on gluten-free pasta
• Salty pizza stuffed with spinach
• Dessert: Tiramisù – Limoncello & coffee or tea

Monday, September 21

No lunch at Retreat Villa
Gastronomic tour today with pizza lunch included

Dinner
6:00 – 7:30 pm

• Mixed vegetable soup and toasted barley
• Potato gnocchi with tomato and basil
• Sorrento tomatoes stuffed with rice, olives and capers
• Mixed grilled meat with vegetables
• Dessert: Crostata – Limoncello & coffee or tea

Tuesday, September 22

Lunch
11:45 – 1:00 pm

• Black bean soup with mashed potatoes
• Grilled Prosciutto, Fontina & Sun-Dried Tomato Sandwiches
• Italian leafy green salad
• Tea or coffee

Dinner
6:00 – 7:30 pm

• Italian Bread
• Pepperonata
• Shrimp Caesar Salad
• Gluten free Rotollo Imperiale
• Ravoli with meat & spinach
• Dessert — Zeppole with chocolate or berry sauce — Limoncello & coffee or tea

Wednesday, September 23

Lunch in Positano today

Dinner
6:00 – 7:30 pm

• Open Evening to make pizzas of our choice in a wood oven:
• Pizza with Eggplant, tomato and olives
• Pizza with arugula and cherry tomatoes
• Pizza with onions
• Pizza with artichokes
• Buns with oregano and oil
• Dessert: Gelato – Limoncello & coffee or tea

Thursday, September 24

Lunch
11:45 – 1:00 pm

• Roasted Vegetable Minestrone soup
• Penne with Eggplant, Tomato & Basil
• Grilled Chicken & Arugula Caesar Salad with Grilled Croutons
• Tea or coffee

Dinner
6:00 – 7:30 pm

• Dinner at the beach – “Maria Grazia Restaurant” tonight. Try a variety of local appetizers, wine & dessert
• Limoncello & coffee or tea – back at the Villa

Additional drinks (other than coffee, tea, water & a Limoncello with your evening dessert) are not included in the cost of this Retreat and can be purchased separately at your own expense.

Download the Sample Menu PDF File

Trip Details

Destination Airport

Start/Finish City: Naples to Naples

Naples, Italy (NAP)

The nearest International airport to our destination is Naples Airport, also known as Capodichino Airport (IATA: NAP). It’s well organized and connected to the center of the city by public transportation.

The plan is to each make our way to the historic city centre of Naples for Friday…, 2018. We will meet by 6:00 PM at our rendezvous point, the Hotel Correra.

Rendezvous Hotel in Naples

Hotel Correra 241

Rooms will be shared accommodation on our first night in Naples. If you require a private room, you will need to arrange that separately at your own expense.

Transportation From the Airport

If you’re flying in, we will help to arrange a private transfer for you to the Hotel Correra. If you are coming by train or other means, please contact the Hotel Correra 241 website for directions to the hotel.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on this trip. Please provide evidence of your travel insurance prior to departure.

When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

What does the price of the Retreat Include?

• Accommodation for 7 nights. Our first night in at the Hotel Correra in Naples (shared accommodation) & 6 nights in our Retreat Villa in Nerano.
• Transfer from Hotel Correra to Villa in Nerano on Saturday… 2018.
• Transfer from Nerano to Airport in Naples, morning of Friday… 2018.
• 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, & 6 dinners.
• 30 minute massage.
• Informative and uplifting Wellness & Writing workshops and evening group sessions with Lisa Fugard, Julie Colvin & Gary Finnan.
• Follow-up conference call with Lisa Fugard and Julie Colvin after Retreat.
• A total of three land excursions which will include:

1. Visit to the ruins of Pompeii (an ancient Roman town that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD) as well as a visit to the majestic seaside city of Sorrento.
2. Visit to local farms for the day to explore and taste Italy’s finest lemons, olives, cheese, wine, Limoncello & pizza!
3. Boat excursion to explore breathtaking Positano.

What’s not included in the price of the Retreat:

1. International airfare & airport taxes (also applies to trans-border flights)
2. Meals during excursions (Allow EUR100-150 for meals not included.)
3. Incidentals
4. Insurance
5. Beverages (other than those stated in menu.)
6. Room mini-bar selections are not included.
7. Optional tours or admissions

Safety Tips

Travelers must exercise common sense and caution at all times.  There are often “Gypsies” in areas like airports and train stations. Here are some tips I have found to keep you aware of your surroundings and your money!

10 Ways to protect your self from pickpockets

Tipping

It is customary in Europe to leave a small tip for service providers, such as; waiters and drivers. If you are pleased with the service, the normal tip is 1- 2 Euros.

Vaccinations

Italy requires no vaccinations for entry according to IAMAT. Likewise, no vaccinations are needed for re-entry from Italy into the U.S. or Canada.

It is still encouraged that all participants seek their physician’s advice regarding necessary or advisable vaccinations, medical precautions, or other medical concerns regarding your trip to Europe.

Italy travel health advice.

Download the Details PDF File

Terms & Conditions

Retreat Restrictions

This Retreat is Non-Smoking and peanut free. No exceptions.

Visas

It is vital that you check for yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. All visitors to the EU (European Union) and EEC (European Economic Community) countries require a valid passport (with a minimum of 6 months validity).

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on this trip. Please provide evidence of your travel insurance prior to departure.

When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Dossier Disclaimer

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change should circumstances be altered beyond our control or to make improvements to our existing plans. We will do our best to inform of any changes should they need to be made for any reason.

Itinerary Disclaimer

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described and menu in our itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into it, and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Payment

For details of payment, please refer to the Pricing PDF.

New Travelers – Safety and Security Tips

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. It is recommended that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure. It is often strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers’ checks, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home – you won’t need it while travelling. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on our tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is also recommended to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings and mind your personal belongings.

Travelers must exercise common sense and caution at all times. Tourists should stick to set travel arrangements and avoid unknown areas. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets and a record of your travelers’ checks and credit card numbers separate from where you keep the originals and ideally with your emergency contact person back at home.

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.

The Mandatory Fine Print – Force Majeure

Wellness & Writing Retreats shall not be liable in any way to the Client for death, bodily injury, illness, damage, delay or other loss or detriment to person or property, or financial costs both direct and indirect incurred, or for Wellness & Writing Retreats failure to commence, perform and/ or complete any duty owed to the Client if such death, delay, bodily injury (including emotional distress or injury), illness, damage or other loss or detriment to person or property is caused by Act of God, war or war like operations, mechanical breakdowns, terrorist activities or threat thereof, civil commotions, labor difficulties, interference by authorities, political disturbance, howsoever and where so ever any of the same may arise or be caused, riot, insurrection and government restraint, fire, extreme weather or any other cause whatsoever beyond the reasonable control of Wellness & Writing Retreats; or an event which Wellness & Writing Retreats or the supplier of services, even with all due care, could not foresee.

Download the Terms & Conditions PDF File

Bringing Electrical Devices to Italy

by About.com

Advance planning will best help you keep your electronic devices charged and ready to use. There are several things you will need to consider as you prepare for your trip.

Determine Whether You Need an Adapter or Converter

Some travelers assume they need expensive voltage converters to charge their electronic devices. In reality, most laptop computers, cell phones and camera battery chargers are dual voltage, meaning they will work on 110 volts (in the United States, for example) and on 220 volts (in Europe and most other parts of the world) and will work with electric frequencies ranging from 50 Hertz to 60 Hertz. In fact, many electronic devices will be damaged or destroyed by voltage converters, since the device already contains a converter.

To find out whether your electronic device is dual voltage, you will need to read the tiny words written on the bottom of your device or charger. (You may need a magnifying glass to read the miniscule print.) If your device is dual voltage, you will see something like “Input 100 – 240V, 50 – 60 Hz.” If your device is indeed dual voltage, you will need a plug adapter to use it, but not a voltage converter.

Bring Only the Devices You Really Need

Take a few moments to review the capabilities of your mobile devices and the costs to use them in another country. Plan to bring only those devices you will use regularly; this will minimize your charging time and keep data roaming charges down. (If you don’t know how much overseas cell phone or tablet use will cost, contact your service provider and ask before you travel.) If one device, such as a tablet, can do everything that your laptop and cell phone can, leave something at home.

Determine Which Plug Adapters to Bring

Each country determines its own electrical distribution system and type of electrical outlet. In the United States, for example, two-pronged plugs are the standard, although three-pronged grounded plugs are also very common. In Italy, most outlets take plugs with two round prongs, although bathrooms, if they have any outlets, often have three-pronged (round prongs, all in a row) grounded outlets. You can buy a multi-country plug adapter if you are not sure which type of adapter to bring, or you can research the types of plug adapters commonly needed for your destination country and bring those.

Ideally, you should bring several adapters if you plan to charge more than one electronic device per day. Your hotel room may only have a few electrical outlets, but some may be in better condition than others, and some may be grounded outlets rather than standard ones. You may even need to plug one adapter into another in order to use it. For example, you can plug a smaller-sized two-pronged European adapter into the smaller-sized grounded three-prong European adapter in order to plug your electronic device’s larger two-pronged European plug into a grounded outlet.

Test Your Adapters before Leaving Home

Obviously, you can’t plug your adapters into an outlet that is hundreds of miles away, but you can determine which plugs fit into your collection of adapters. Be sure the plug fits smoothly and snugly into the adapter; a floppy fit will create problems when you try to charge your electronic devices.

Download the Electrical Devices PDF File

To Register for This Event

Please visit our Registration Page.