Luxury All-Inclusive Retreat: Discover the Best of Italy – Rome, Florence, Tuscany, and Venice

Indulge in the ultimate Italian escape with our all-inclusive luxury retreat, taking you through the most iconic and breathtaking regions of Italy. From the timeless allure of Rome to the Renaissance wonders of Florence, the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the romantic waterways of Venice, this is a journey that blends rich history, culture, and unparalleled comfort.

What’s Included:

• Luxury Accommodations: Stay at top-rated hotels and boutique properties, carefully selected for their comfort, elegance, and charm.
• Private Driver and Guide: From the moment you arrive at Rome's airport until your departure from Venice, enjoy the ease and convenience of private transportation. Our expert local guides will provide fascinating insights into Italy’s treasures, ensuring every stop reveals something extraordinary.
• All Meals: Savor authentic Italian cuisine, from fine dining in world-class restaurants to hand-picked local favorites. Every meal is curated to showcase Italy’s culinary artistry, with wine pairings to elevate the experience.
• Entrance Fees & Gratuities: Relax knowing all entrance fees to major landmarks, museums, and attractions are included. Gratuities are covered, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Exclusive Experiences: From private tours of the Vatican and the Colosseum in Rome, to intimate wine tastings in Tuscany, and a private gondola ride through Venice's serene canals, every detail is arranged to offer you the most luxurious and immersive experiences Italy has to offer.

The Journey:

1. Rome: Immerse yourself in the heart of ancient civilization with guided tours of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican. Walk the enchanting streets of Trastevere and dine with views of the Pantheon.
2. Florence: Explore the birthplace of the Renaissance, where art and history come to life. Visit Michelangelo’s David, tour the Uffizi Gallery, and stroll across the Ponte Vecchio as you discover the soul of Tuscany’s capital.
3. Tuscany: Retreat to the countryside for a luxurious escape. Relax in the serene vineyards and olive groves, savoring wine tastings and gourmet meals at some of Tuscany’s finest wineries and estates.
4. Venice: Experience the floating city in opulence. A private gondola ride along the Grand Canal, exploring St. Mark’s Basilica, and wandering through the enchanting alleys will offer you a timeless Venetian adventure.

Important Details:

• Active Itinerary: This retreat includes moderate activity, with walking tours on cobblestone streets and steps at many historical sites. Please bring comfortable footwear and prepare for a steady pace as you move through Italy’s captivating cities and countryside.
• Flexibility: While everything is planned for your convenience, we offer the freedom to customize your experience. If you'd like to explore independently or skip any activities, you are welcome to craft your days as you wish.
• Currency: While the retreat is all-inclusive, we recommend having some Euros on hand for personal purchases and small tips for extraordinary service.

Arrival & Departure:

• Arrival: Fly into Rome, where your private driver will meet you at the airport to begin your Italian journey.
• Departure: Your adventure concludes in Venice, with a private transfer to the airport for your return flight.

This retreat offers an exceptional blend of culture, relaxation, and luxury, ensuring you experience the best of Italy with total peace of mind. Your only responsibility is to enjoy every moment of this unforgettable journey.

Amy Walker, MSW, LCSW, CCM, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats. Amy started Walker Wellness Retreats in 2016 due to her love for travel and helping others experience the world. Amy works as an online mental health therapist when she is not leading international retreats. Amy is passionate about helping individuals and couples work through barriers and find new ways to communicate, connect, and thrive. In addition, Amy loves international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and the outdoors. Amy works alongside her husband, Brian Walker, to run Walker Wellness Retreats. 

To meet more of the Walker Wellness Retreats team, visit the About Us page on our website. 

Packing List for Travel to Europe

Important Documentation:

• Travel insurance details (including emergency contact information)
• Passport
• Copy of passport (both in physical and digital form)
• COVID-19 vaccination records
• Trip itinerary (including accommodation and transportation details)

Helpful Tip: Make two copies of your passport, travel insurance papers, and other essential travel documents. Diversify your copies by storing them electronically on your computer/smartphone and separating them in your money belt, carry-on bag, and checked luggage. Keep your vaccination records with your passport.

Money:

• Debit card (with a four-digit PIN)
• Credit card
• Petty cash (in euros, ~100)
• Cross-body bag or travel purse (to avoid theft when out walking around)

Helpful Tip: You can withdraw euros from ATMs, and it's usually the most convenient way to get local currency. However, it's always a good idea to bring some petty cash just in case of an emergency. Be mindful of the denomination you carry, as some shops and vendors may not accept large bills.

Clothing:

• Comfortable walking shoes (closed-toe preferred)
• Slip-on shoes (such as sandals or flip-flops)
• Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella
• Scarf (for covering shoulders when entering religious sites or dressing up an outfit)
• Warm sweater or jacket (depending on the season)
• Swimwear (if traveling in the summer or visiting a beach destination)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Undergarments and socks
• Casual clothing (shorts, skirts, dresses, t-shirts, etc.)
• Athletic wear (yoga pants, sports bras, etc.)
• Laundry bag

Helpful Tip: Pack for the season and be mindful of local customs and dress codes. If you run out of outfits, plan to do laundry or purchase clothes locally. Please make sure you are covering your shoulders and knees when going into cathedrals and holy places.

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Shampoo and conditioner (travel-sized; 3oz or less)
• Body wash or soap (travel-sized; 3oz or less)
• Deodorant
• Razor and shaving cream
• Personal medications (in their original containers)
• Pain reliever (such as aspirin or ibuprofen)
• Anti-diarrhea medicine (such as Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
• Motion sickness medicine (if prone to motion sickness)
• Sunblock (SPF 30 or higher)
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
• Towel (microfiber or quick-dry)
• Hand sanitizer
• Earplugs

Electronics:

• Smartphone and camera
• Charger and adapter (for European outlets)
• Portable charger (if planning to use devices extensively throughout the day)
• Headphones
• Waterproof phone case
• Power strip (if traveling with multiple devices)
• VPN software (if needed for internet security and accessing geo-restricted content)

Additional Personal Items:

• Refillable water bottle
• Day pack or backpack (for carrying essentials during the day)
• Beach bag or tote (if visiting a beach destination)
• Dry bag (for storing wet clothes or electronics)
• Beach blanket (if visiting a beach destination)
• Book or e-reader
• Journal or notepad

Please be mindful that Europe is very crowded, especially the cities. Please also note that smoking is common and can occur at meals if the restaurant seating is outside.

Always keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of pickpockets and scams. If possible, leave valuable items at home or store them in a secure location such as a hotel safe. And don't forget to leave room in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts!

Money:

• Take out Euros from an ATM. Conversion rates are about equal to the dollar.
• Be mindful that some ATMs charge a crazy conversion rate, like 11-15%. Do not use these ATMs. Also, avoid taking money out of EuroNet ATMs, as they charge many conversion fees.
• Use the XE currency conversion app to show you the conversion rate when you buy something. 
• Don't pay in USD. They probably won't take it, and you won't get a good conversion if they do.
• If a merchant asks if you want to process your card in USD or Euro, always use the local currency, Euro.
• Cash is widely used, especially for small things like drinks. Keep small bills and coins for the bathroom.
• If you leave a tip anywhere, round it up—no need to tip out the standard 20%.
• Make sure you use up all your coins before leaving Europe, as you cannot exchange them back.

Financial Safety:

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying large amounts of cash publicly.
• Split up your cash, cards, and important documents into different places (e.g., some in a wallet, some in a money belt, and some in your luggage).
• Keep your wallet or purse close to your body, and never leave it unattended.
• Use ATMs in secure, well-lit areas and avoid those with suspicious-looking devices attached to them.
• Check your credit card and bank statements regularly for unauthorized charges or transactions.
• Use credit cards for larger purchases as they offer better protection than debit cards.
• Use a travel credit card that offers benefits such as no foreign transaction fees and travel insurance.
• Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans to prevent them from flagging your purchases as suspicious and freezing your account.
• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi to avoid identity theft and fraud. Use a virtual private network (VPN) and avoid accessing sensitive information (e.g., bank accounts) on public Wi-Fi networks.

Personal Safety:

• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.
• Avoid carrying valuables or wearing expensive jewelry.
• Use a money belt or cross-body purse to keep essential items secure.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unlit areas.
• Keep your wallet in a front pocket or money belt.
• Use a cross-body purse with a secure zipper or buckle.
• Be wary of strangers who approach.
• Stay alert in crowded places, such as train stations and tourist attractions.
• Register with the embassy or consulate in case of emergency.
• Always keep emergency contact information with you.
• Learn basic phrases in the local language, including how to ask for help.

Transportation:

• Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding.
• Use trusted ride-sharing apps or licensed taxis when taking a taxi.
• Official transportation services should be used at airports and train stations.

If you cancel your trip before the 90-day deadline, 25% of the total trip price is non-refundable, as are any airfare, train tickets, or ferry tickets purchased as part of your trip package due to the strict cancellation policy by foreign carriers (if applicable).

Trip cancellations requested after the final payment deadlines listed above are non-refundable, and guests are encouraged to file a claim with their travel insurance for reimbursement. 

In the unlikely event Walker Wellness Retreats cancels the retreat, guests will be provided a full 100% refund of their booking. 

Lastly, we partner with several third-party booking platforms that have separate deposit and cancellation policies. If you book through a third-party partner, please refer to their specific cancellation policies.

Questions about refunds or cancellations? Click here to view our payment and cancellation policy.

The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Please email us at contact@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.