Looking for a Slow-Paced, truly genuine foodie cultural experience? Tired of missing out on the real Italy? Forget your internet searches and pour yourself a glass of wine! Keep reading, because you found what you’ve been dreaming of.
Awakening to the blissful sounds of a symphony of birdsong in the sanctuary of Saint Francis, you open your eyes to the beauty of your Umbrian paradise.
As you step down onto the Italian-designed ceramic tiles in the 13th-century historical residence of the Nobel Leti family, you can see the attention to detail everywhere, from hand-painted faux doors to antique bedframes to Damask upholstered furniture.
The aroma of Italian espresso and freshly baked croissants wafts in from the luxurious 17th-century dining room, while a sumptuous buffet of delights awaits your pleasure.
Taking your complimentary breakfast onto the Versailles-style garden terrazzo, you take in the magnificence before you, with views of Via Flaminia, the ancient Roman road that leads to Rome, and the truffle-filled hillside forest below, where the crisp clean air envelops you.
On your free day, take a leisurely stroll to the lively Piazza Mercato, just a 3-minute walk away.
Here you can take your pick of outdoor cafes and fine dining near the 700-year-old running fountain and clock tower.
Relax and enjoy Il Dolce Far Niente - the sweetness of doing nothing - with newfound friends, as sheer peace, and calm fill your heart.
Want to learn more? Keep reading!
YOUR EXPERIENCE
Are you ready for the ultimate self-care experience?
Join a small intimate group of brilliant and dynamic independent women and spend 10 days and nights together discovering the power and wisdom of connecting with your lost self.
You've given so much of yourself to others… children, work, mates, or ex-mates.
Yearn for something splendid just for you, a next-level adventure, that is heart-opening, soul-stirring, and life-changing.
You'll immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Italy's Hilltop Villages, savor great food, and find pleasure in shopping. Yes, please!
Best of all, you'll explore the possibilities of this third phase of life and build relationships with your new companions as you share collective wisdom and life experiences with open hearts.
Rejuvenate your soul with us and rediscover what you truly want out of life!
So, tell me, is this for you? If you relate to any of these thoughts, then this experience is designed for you.
For 10 days and nights, you'll indulge in splendid local cuisine, discover the culture, and find your true inner self with a new type of self-expression. You'll also learn the art of "the sweetness of doing nothing", Italian style.
All you have to do is say YES!
Trust your inner heart & soul
What is it telling you?
Eat and drink with the local Spoletini, learn their traditions, welcomed by our friends and by artists of all trades, all with time to wander on your own and zero stress to think about.
Your dollars go to the local Spoletini (Spoleto residents) wherever possible. We visit “where to buy” authentic, quality products so that you are supporting tradition, not tourist traps.
Your local expert on the ground has lived in Italy for over 18 years, is bilingual, has dual citizenship, and is an instrumental part of this local community, providing you with the meaningful transformation of your dreams.
We've calculated your Carbon Footprint converting it to environmental friendly credits and already including it in your experience.
Don't spend another weekend trying to plan your next Italian getaway alone! If any of these descriptions of Spoleto resonate with you, this experience is for you. From this experience, you will be able to plan, book, and enjoy a 3-month stay in Italy with confidence in the future!
Trust your intuition and follow your heart. Now is the time to take the plunge and book your locally designed experience. You'll eat with the locals, learn their customs, and be welcomed by friendly artisans. You'll also have time to explore on your own with zero stress and worry.
Stop wasting your time and money and let us show you a truly authentic experience.
Within a 5-minute walk from Piazza Mercato, you will find over seven museums full of stories from the past.
Casa Menotti Foundation displays a virtual archive of all the Famous Guests throughout the last 65 years. International Hollywood Movie Stars have visited Spoleto for its beauty and Festival of Two Worlds. Actors, dancers, artists, and musicians from around the world have performed or exhibited at the Festival Dei Due Mondi since its origins in 1958, Bridget Bardot, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Sophia Loren, Rudolf Nureyev, and Andy Warhol to name a few. Even in the cold war CIA, MI6, and KGB agents used Spoleto for their covert operations!
One of the most stunning sights is Casa Romana, a 1st century A.D. residence of Emperor Vespasian's mother Vespasia Polla, with unbelievably preserved mosaics and frescoes.
You may even get the chance to witness the filming of Don Matteo, an ongoing 20-year Italian TV show. It follows an Umbrian Priest who calmly solves local crimes while tooling around on an old-fashioned bicycle sporting a beret and the full-length black cassock that plays down the fact that the priest is “strafigo” — Italian for “very hot.”
Let’s not forget all the little boutique shops with pottery, handmade leather goods to scarves.
THE CUISINE
Umbria is renowned for its fresh, hand-picked food, featuring divine flavors and colors for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. Herbs and spices like oregano, and more, fill the air with their aromatic bliss. The region is also famous for its exquisite olive oil, wild truffles, asparagus, and mushrooms.
For a genuine Umbrian experience, it is essential to sample handmade pasta, gnocchi, and ricotta-stuffed ravioli. Wild boar stew cooked to perfection with Montefalco Red Wine, rosemary stems, and black olives is a must-try, as it is the region's signature dish. Other delicious specialties include stewed pork with a salted pistachio sauce and toasted bruschetta with fresh ricotta farmed from sheep-grazing on wildflowers, it is naturally a sweeter softer flavor.
If you are up for discovering new flavors, try Zafferano Risotto, made from hand-picked saffron pistols collected from the crocus flower, melted on top of a creamy parmesan cheese, and broth base with rice.
Umbria is also known for its legumes and grains. There’s no better way to sample the region’s bounty than through a bowl of this traditional harvest soup of lentils, beans, corn, chickpeas, cicerchie (wild chickpeas), and spelt, topped with croutons and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. For a taste of the best soups in Umbrian try Imbrecciata, Quadrucci e Ceci (pasta and chickpeas), and Crema di Fave (cream of fava beans).
If you’re open to trying something totally unique, one of our dining experiences offers a rich gorgonzola sauce or herb-crusted pork tenderloin cooked in sweet dates sauce served over a creamy polenta base.
When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, I suggest you try Alessandro Crispini’s internationally award-winning Pistachio Gelato Recipe, offered in his Gelateria Crispini in Spoleto, Italy. Savor his pistachio-flavored gelato made with three types of Sicilian pistachio which are roasted for 24 hours, seared with vanilla beans, and caramelized sugar, and blended with cream. The artisan also adds some Sea Salt from South of Spain to accentuate the flavor of the nuts.
Try a classic Italian tiramisu, where each bite is filled with slightly sweet yet light and airy mascarpone cream and dreamily soft yet delicate coffee-flavored ladyfingers. A touch of cocoa powder adds a slight chocolatey flavor to the dessert.
If that doesn’t suit your fancy, try the semifreddo (in Italian means 'half-cold'), a frozen dessert between ice cream and mousse but with a twist of a cake-like texture!
Wrap up your traditional meal with a shot of espresso or a digestive liquor like Vin Santo, served with some bite-size biscotti which beautifully accompany this traditional alcohol.
Sit back and enjoy your Italian meal as you relax at the dining table and take your time to truly appreciate new flavors, your medieval village surroundings, and get to know the people around you. “Buon appetito” , Enjoy your meal!
The Historical Boutique Residence consists of 6 pre-reserved rooms, all of which are decorated with warm lightly colored fabrics and organza. Each room, with its unique architecture, color, and decor is reminiscent of a noble room of the past. This noble residence has rooms with a view of the sacred mountain of the Spoleto “Monteluco”, which evokes the peace and harmony of the hermits that once lived there.
Refined and comfortable, with vaulted ceilings from the seventeenth century. Located in the oldest part of the palace then used as a monastery, they reserve a warm atmosphere.
Enjoy a stroll in the lush Versailles Style Garden or sit by one of its two outdoor fountains.
There are 4 standard-sized rooms available and included at the standard price, and three superior-sized rooms for a modest supplemental price based on availability. Each room comes with a stocked minifridge bar and slippers. Laundry services are available weekly on request for an additional cost.
Massimo and Anna host the reception desk from 7:30 am to 9 pm. Buffet Breakfast is open from 8 am to 10 am.
BOUTIQUE STAY
ITINERARY
CIVITA BAGNOREGIO
Inside the Italian Town that Charges Tourists an Entry Fee by Julia Buckly, CNN
A slim bluff of land rearing up from the valley floor. Visitors must cross a 366-meter pedestrian-only bright, cantilevered over the void and rising steeply to meet the village walls. The feline population is padded out with just 12 human beings. It could be custom-made for Instagram!
CALCATA
Where Newcomers Gave an Old Town a Second Life by Chris Ward, The New York Times.
A medieval hill town north of Rome was rescued by the artists and bohemians who began moving there in the 1960s. Ponytailed locals may be in Indian-style Saris, an absurd number of art galleries tucked away in the tangled alleyways of cobblestones.
SUNSET MADONNA CHAPEL OUTDOOR DINING
15 of the Most Beautiful Chapels in Europe by Nick Mafi, Architectural Digest.
Set in the Tuscan countryside, the Cappella della Madonna is designated as a Unesco World Heritage site. Enjoy Gastronomic Delights at this organic farm-to-table experience.
MONTEFALCO & BEVAGNA
9 Really Delicious Reasons To Go to Umbria in The Fall by Catherine Sabino, Forbes.
Montefalco and Bevagna are a must-stop for top vintners. Francesca’s got the right connections for the top truffle and Sagrantino Wine Experience!
Bevagna Saffron is the gem of enogastronomy.
MONTEPULCIANO
The Tuscany That Movie Directors Love by Catherine Sabino, Haute Living Magazine.
Montepulciano and its surrounding area are known for their extreme natural beauty and architectural heritage dating back to the Etruscan and Ancient Roman times. The region is celebrated for Vino Nobile, the first Italian wine to obtain the prestigious DOCG denomination.
ORVIETO
Under-The-Radar Umbria: 5 Reasons To Visit by Irene S. Levine, Forbes
The Orvieto Cathedral—one of the most visually stunning in all of Italy—has a rose window and intricate mosaic façade with Signorelli frescoes inside. Strolling mazes of narrow streets, one is charmed handicraft workshops, art galleries, food markets, wine bars, and family-owned local cuisine.
CORTONA
Italy Beyond Tuscany with Frances Mayes by Everett Potter, Forbes
She bought and restored the Cortona villa, an effort that she described in her very charming best-seller Under the Tuscan Sun, which was later made into a film starring Diane Lane. It’s a road trip, a feast of small towns and villages of Italy, with lavish descriptions of meals eaten and wines tasted.
What You’ll Take Home Is…
A newfound love for Italy and its people.
Exceptional pictures of your adventures with new friends.
A sense of optimism and inspiration about solo traveling. Fear no longer holds you back!
Incredible memories of unique beautiful hilltop villages and the most delicious foodie meals.
A new radiant magnificent you, no longer invisible due to age.
A commitment to your dreams and goals in this third phase of life. Period.
An acceptance of your inner critic not allowing fear to interfere with designing your international travel experiences.
Permission for self-indulgence and a “self-care” attitude after returning home.
“the sweetness of doing nothing” Italian style and how to re-create it in your life!
Ten incredible days together with transformation, rich wisdom, and a whole lot of playfulness and adventure.
Prepare for the journey in the Trip Prep Coaching Facebook Group, connecting with fellow travelers three months before departure, meet your travel buddies, and receive professional tips.
Enjoy ten nights of luxurious PRIVATE ROOM accommodations in a charming 4-star Boutique Hotel, located in Spoleto’s historic district center. Indulge in a sumptuous buffet breakfast each morning.
Embark on six-day excursions led by a skilled driver and guide, with gratuities included.
Experience a Warm Welcome Complimentary Aperitivo on the evening of our arrival day.
Delight in two leisurely days to explore Spoleto independently.
Savor exquisite meals at renowned Foodie restaurants in the towns we visit with advance reservations. While the cost of your menu choices is not included, gratuities are covered.
Enjoy our pre-arranged dinner reservations in Spoleto on each evening (excluding the two free days); expenses for your chosen dishes are separate.
Experience a unique and memorable outdoor garden sunset dinner at the infamous Madonna Tuscan Hilltop Chapel.
Immerse yourself in the local culture during each day trip, guided by your Travel Curator.
Experience seamless roundtrip Ground Transportation to and from FCO airport and your hotel.
Take home a delightful Spoleto 2024 gift bag brimming with surprises!
Indulge in these unforgettable moments with us - a perfect blend of growth and enjoyment.
WHAT’S INCLUDED…
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED…
• Your roundtrip airfare to/from home.
• Lunches/dinners -although reserved at the best #Foodie restaurants, the cost of meals is not included and expenses are paid based on your ordering. A budget of $100 a day should be more than adequate.
• Items like souvenirs, shopping, spa services, taxis, laundry, bar services, etc.
• Travel Insurances- Travel Medical Insurance is REQUIRED and Personal Trip Cancellation insurance is STRONGLY recommended. REFUND PROTECT is an alternative if you cancel your trip.
You arrive at FCO, Fiumicino International Airport also called “Leonardo da Vinci,” in Rome Italy on May 28th, which means you depart on the 27th of May from your hometown with the time change.
The group driver will arrive mid-morning to greet the ladies for our group. Please arrive no later than 10:00 am.*
If you want to come earlier or stay later, ask Francesca to make recommendations.
*If you are not able to arrive in Rome by 10:00 am on the day of arrival for the group pick up, we can a taxi to the hotel at your cost of 250 euros.
FLIGHTS…
We've got “YOUR AUTHENTIC” Italy!
FAQs
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If you long to know Italy authentically, meets locals, and learn about their culture, THIS EXPERIENCE IS FOR YOU!
If you do not have the patience to learn and accept cultural norms outside of your daily life, this experience is NOT for you.
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There is quite a bit of walking on this trip – but it is not for exercise or speed, as much as for visiting hilltops.
Level 4-5 activity rating (out of 5) due to slopes and cobblestones without handrails.
If you have mobility issues needing support walking devices this is not the experience for you. Italy hilltops are NOT disability friendly.
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220-watt appliances such as camera cords, curling irons will work in Italy. You can purchase 220-watt adaptors on the internet, however, items needing 125 watt converters are not recommended.
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NO. This is an adult woman-only, small group with only 1 guest per private hotel room.
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Your passport needs to be valid for 6 months beyond your return date. In 2024, Italy MAY be requiring an ETIAS Visa, but it has not yet been finalized.
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All the restaurants feature different dining experiences. You order directly from the menu based on any dietary restrictions you may have.
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We’ve got you covered on this one! Tips for our driver and meal tips when we are dining together at all pre-reserved meals are included. The cost of your meals for lunch and dinner are not included and are based on your ordering and consumption.
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We have a travel agent that can assist you if needed. Just ask!
DO NOT buy your airline tickets until Francesca has confirmed YOUR participation in the tour confirming that the first 4 guests have registered with deposits.
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All payments are non-refundable. Travel cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.
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European hotel rooms and bathrooms tend to be significantly smaller that US hotel rooms. “Standard” rooms are included in the basic pricing. “Superior or Deluxe” rooms are larger and may be available for an additional expense.
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No. As this is an intimate cultural group experience, all guests stay in the same boutique hotel.
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Good support walking sandals or shoes. Layers of shirts from tank tops to nice short sleeve shirts to sweaters for chilly evenings. Many ladies like to bring flowing skirts, dresses, inexpensive accessories, and a sunhat.
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The most amazing 2-hour dining experiences are pre-reserved for each hilltop daytrip.
Two hours either before or after lunch is available for shopping, sightseeing or explortion.
Drive time ranges between 1 to 1.45 hours each way to each village.
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We offer you a facebook private group for all the guests to meet in advance and chat sharing a bit about yourself. Francesca offers tons of FREE advice to assist you in this travel transformation.
Francesca’s passion for traveling and her deep love for Italy is evident in the way she curates’ experiences for her clients. She focuses on creating authentic experiences that enable travelers to immerse themselves in the culture and lifestyle of the region.
Her personalized tours include exploring hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track places, meeting local artisans and farmers, enjoying authentic regional cuisine, and learning about the rich history and traditions of Italy.
Francesca believes that traveling in the third phase of life can be a transformative and enriching experience. She encourages her clients to slow down, connect with the local community, and embrace the beauty of the present moment.
Through her personalized coaching style, Francesca helps women navigate the challenges of aging and rediscover their passions and dreams. She believes that it is never too late to create the life you truly desire and is passionate about empowering women to do so.
Francesca’s love for Italy, her deep connection to the local community, and her expertise in travel and coaching make traveling easy!
YOUR TRAVEL CURATOR
She’s been featured as a co-host guest on Italy’s longest-running Travel TV Series Sereno Variable Spoleto Episode in the Italian language and podcast guest on Travel Reimagined and Roles Redefined.
Francesca is a Certified Travel Coach and The Travel Coach Network’s Ambassador to Italy. She curates personalized experiences throughout Italy & Europe. Francesca shares a rare and intimate glimpse into her life amongst the local Spoletini, where she raised her daughter Antonia for over 15 years.
With over 25 years of international travel experience and living in Spoleto, having her 2nd heart surgery in Rome, you can't get more local than that!
Francesca coaches mature women in the third phase of life on how to enjoy Il Dolce Far Niente, "the sweetness of doing nothing" in her village! Francesca herself is in her sixties, bilingual, a dual citizen, and is thoroughly known and loved by her village. Through the connections she has built over her international life, she has the unique ability to create small group experiences in the hilltop villages across central Italy.
AN OVERVIEW OF THE MAGIC THAT AWAITS YOU!
Want to discuss it first? Ask for a video call with me face to face to discuss joining us on this magical Italian Sweetness of Doing Nothing Experience.
With much Love, Francesca Elisabetta.
