Escape to the breathtaking shores of Sardinia, Italy, with Walker Wellness Retreats and Sailing2Wellness on an exclusive, all-inclusive luxury sailing expedition! Embark on a seven-night journey aboard our private catamaran, reserved solely for our intimate group.

Experience the timeless allure of classic sailing as we explore the stunning landscapes of Sardinia and Corsica, Italy. Our meticulously crafted retreat seamlessly blends relaxation, wellness, and adventure, ensuring a rejuvenating getaway unlike any other.

Indulge in pampering with a luxury spa day, savor the flavors of the region with a curated wine tasting, and delight in seven exquisite dinners under the Mediterranean sky. Our itinerary strikes the perfect balance between structured activities and leisure time, allowing you the freedom to tailor your experience to your desires.

Partnering with Sailing2Wellness, we're dedicated to providing a sanctuary for holistic rejuvenation of body and mind. Our mission is to reconnect guests with the natural world, offering rejuvenating activities and empowering education to cultivate healthier lifestyles.

In a world filled with constant hustle, our retreat offers a precious opportunity to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with yourself. Join us on a transformative journey towards lasting balance and vitality, where you can pause, recharge, and embrace a mindful way of living.

Trip Style: Rest and Relaxation. Unwind in style as you settle into our private boat, where you'll unpack just once for the duration of the trip.

Please note that this custom catamaran charter requires a 50% non-refundable deposit, and we adhere to the charter boat's terms, conditions, and cancellation policy.

Vincent Braakman:

From a young age, Vince has been on the water, sailing with his family. The meditative state and soul-calming experience of sliding over the water using a natural element are what he wanted to integrate into the Sailing2Wellness experience.

Personal growth has been crucial in Vincent's life. Self-help books and inspiring podcasts are part of his weekly routine, providing balance during life's challenges. These exercises and rituals are essential to his personal development, and why he believes they add significant value.

Vallery Melcher:

Growing up in a multinational family exposed Vallery to various cultures, especially in culinary aspects. Her interest in healthy and delicious food deepened through experiences in different restaurants and the catering industry.

As a certified nutritionist, Vallerys goal is to educate people on the power of good food. Combining sports, well-being, healthy nutrition, being surrounded by nature, and maintaining balance are fundamental concepts of wellness for her. This translates into an escape from hectic everyday life, bringing individuals closer to themselves.

Amy Walker

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. When Amy is not leading international retreats, she works as an online mental health therapist. 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. 

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.

Important Documents:

• Travel insurance details (including emergency contact information)
• Passport / Visa
• 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.

Clothing:

• Hat (with string/retainer)
• Sunglasses (with string)
• Swimwear
• Casual summer wear
• Flip flops/deck shoes (non-marking soles)
• Sweatshirt / Quick dry UV top
• Beach Towel (one bath size is provided per person)
• Mask (can be rented on board)

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.

Toiletries:

• Wash bag
• Sunblock & Aloe
• Sea/travel sickness pills (not often necessary)
• Insect Repellant
• Anti-histamine
• Shampoo, conditioner & shower gel

Other Stuff:

• Soft-sided duffel bag
• Waterproof Camera
• Waterproof Case
• Jack to Jack cable (for music on board)
• Chargers - USB (12V)
• Headphones
• Water bottle
• Phone
• Books
• Notebook & Pen

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 remember 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 a lot of 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 if they do, you won't get a good conversion.
• Always use the local currency, the Euro, if a merchant asks if you want to process your card in USD or 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 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 in public.
• 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.
• You can use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas and avoid those with suspicious-looking devices attached to them.
• Check your credit card and bank statements regularly for any 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.
• Please let your bank and credit card company know about 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 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.

How do I get to Olbia Airport?

There are several great flight connections available. Many airlines connect with European hubs such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Rome. From there, you can easily connect to Olbia airport with a short flight operated by European carriers, including Alitalia, EasyJet, or Ryanair, among others.

What kind of Wellness experiences are included? 

We will visit specific locations and have special activities tailored to them. A wellness coach will guide all our wellness activities. Yoga, meditation, breathwork, hiking, and water activities are part of the program included on this trip. We also offer an optional special Spa visit during the week, which you can book with us directly.

What is the food like? 

We work closely with local farmers to have fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein for our meals. We view this as an essential element of our wellness concept.

What is the usual planning for dinner? 

Depending on our daily destination, we usually look for the best restaurant in town and go out for dinner as a group. If you prefer to do your own thing, we are happy to recommend a good restaurant as well. One night, we plan to anchor in a quiet bay to cook a delicious and healthy meal as a group.

What if I am vegan or have dietary requests or allergies? 

We are pleased to offer vegan options with all of our meals. To make sure that all dietary needs are accommodated, we ask all our guests to mention any allergies or special requests during the booking process.

Please note that this is a custom catamaran charter and a 50% non refundable deposit is required to reserve the private charter and therefore Walker Wellness Retreats will have to adhere to the charter boats terms, conditions 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. Email us at contact@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.