"If you are so fortunate to attend a Marrakech retreat with Carolyn Peeler you will find it to be a nurturing, relaxing transformative space where no detail is left out including fabulous meals, interesting places to visit, and a wonderfully supportive group of women. You will find yourself, as I did, with a visionary feast of color, landscapes and architectural delights as well as having the opportunity to give back to some of the locals in a deeply meaningful way.

Carolyn has deep connections with people in Morocco that will enhance and further your connection with others and yourself. The Riads that Carolyn reserves are fantastic and beautiful with the warmth of locals deepening your experience. One of my favorite parts of the retreat is when we would arrive back at the Riads Carolyn would leave small presents for participants! So fun!

I would go back to Morocco with Carolyn in a heartbeat. And the shopping is wonderful! "

• CENA HOBAN, FROM CALIFORNIA •

"La Dolce Vita: Antiquing Edition retreat and buying trip was an outstanding experience from beginning to end. Every stop we visited was thoughtfully curated, providing access to exceptional pieces and highly respected dealers. Each dealer had their own distinctive collections of art, antiques, and curated goods. As the owner of an antique store in the United States, I found it especially valuable to observe the variety of shop displays, vignettes, and collecting styles, which offered fresh perspective and inspiration. The experience was a perfect balance between discovery, education, and hands-on buying. Beyond the treasures I found, the trip was an enriching exploration into the world of European antiques. It refined my own “buying-eye,” expanded my personal and my store’s collection, and made the buying process feel fun and rewarding."

• MARYBETH OF ROOTS & ROOST, FROM COLORADO •

"La Dolce Vita: Antiquing Edition retreat and buying trip was an outstanding experience from beginning to end. Every stop we visited was thoughtfully curated, providing access to exceptional pieces and highly respected dealers. Each dealer had their own distinctive collections of art, antiques, and curated goods. As the owner of an antique store in the United States, I found it especially valuable to observe the variety of shop displays, vignettes, and collecting styles, which offered fresh perspective and inspiration. The experience was a perfect balance between discovery, education, and hands-on buying. Beyond the treasures I found, the trip was an enriching exploration into the world of European antiques. It refined my own “buying-eye,” expanded my personal and my store’s collection, and made the buying process feel fun and rewarding.

Carolyn is very focused on building community! The additional art and culinary classes elevated the retreat even further. Sharing meals with the artists, dealers and our hosts created meaningful connections, and time spent with the other participants deepened the sense of our collective. And immersing ourselves in the local culture—especially the food—while appreciating the history of the region made the experience as fulfilling personally as it was professionally."

• MARYBETH OF ROOTS & ROOST, FROM COLORADO •

"Having attended one of Carolyn’s retreats back in 2016, I was so excited to get the chance to come to another in 2025.

Arriving at the villa in Tuscany (or whatever incredible destination she is hosting) is like arriving at your long distance best friend’s house. You immediately feel cared for, special, excited and somehow at home. Each heartfelt detail is very thoughtfully handled, crafted, and presented.

Given all of this intricate planning, organizing, and extreme preparation, it’s truly amazing that Carolyn is a constant source of stability, laughter, and calm spiritedness. She and her cohorts create a magical and singular experience of sisterhood, renewal, and creativity. Your inspiration and friendships linger far after you’re obliged to depart, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime and a yearning to go back.

Life is short. Take the trip. Buy the souvenirs. Make the art. Eat the pasta!"

• VALERIE JONES, FROM CALIFORNIA •

"The experience turned out to be so much more than I anticipated. Upon arrival I was surprised by the beauty of the 17th century farm. From the veranda I greatly enjoyed the tranquillity and beauty of the surrounding garden and the countryside in the distance. Tasteful meals from the loveable staff, served at an enchantingly laid table. Imagine meeting new friends in Tuscany and sharing stories over a fine bottle of Italian wine…!

Every day brought a surprise from our good humoured host Carolyn. Buying vintage jewelry at the antique market in Cortona together with some of “the girls”, a special dinner and wine tasting at a castle, the paper marbling workshop, the farewell dinner... were some of the many highlights of my stay.

I left my adventure re-inspired and I’m ready for more!"

• HELLA MOODY FROM THE NETHERLANDS •

"I would tell anyone considering this retreat to GO FOR IT! My expectations were exceeded in every way.

It was as if someone looked into my mind and created an experience that included all of my favorite things, from shopping, to creating, to cooking classes, and many unexpected surprises, including forging friendships with the other attendees. It was obvious from the moment I arrived that every detail had been considered and Carolyn was the ultimate vacation party planner." 

• AMY MARSHALL FROM BELGIUM •

"Carolyn walks you through every aspect of your travel before you leave home. Have a question, your email is answered promptly.

There is a sisterhood that develops as creative women come together. The workshops are fun and informative. Don't consider yourself creative? Come anyway just for fun and pure joy.

I've had a few experiences that I say are worth every penny; Eleven Madison Park, Outstanding in the Field and La Dolce Vita Retreat. One of the best experiences of my life." 
 
• MICHELE WHITE FROM NEW YORK •

"I attended La Dolce Vita for the first time in 2019. I had never done anything like this before and went in with some reservations traveling alone. It was an absolutely amazing experience. Every single person was so warm and welcoming. 

Carolyn does absolutely everything with excellence. Every small little detail is planned out to perfection. I had special dietary needs and that was all pre planned and perfect.

I own Whim So Doodle, a scrapbooking store in Florida, and spend time with many artists but this took everything I have ever done to the next level. It was the most relaxing getaway I have ever had and it filled my soul. What a treat. Carolyn I don’t know anyone who can do what you do with the level of excellence in which you do it. " 

• JILL OROBELLO FROM FLORIDA •

"La Dolce Vita retreat was a recharge week in the middle of my busy year. One week in a beautiful place that after half an hour felt like home, with lovely ladies from all over the world. 

Carolyn and her team pay attention to the small details that make each day special. Delicious food, enjoyable activities, amazing hosts - the best combination that made this week unforgettable for me. I am sure that I'll be back for a future La Dolce Vita retreat." 

• RIKI NUDLER FROM THE NETHERLANDS •

"I know what you’re asking yourself, will this be all that I expect? I mean, I’ve paid good money for this. I’ve travelled a long way. At least, I know that’s what ran through my head at first, but I took the leap. And this adventure turned out to be more than I could have ever dreamed - better than the description on the website.

Carolyn is a wonderfully kind and fun loving host and has a fantastic team supporting her. The setting was beautiful and every event we had was well planned. I’ve made great friends.
 
I know you want me to tell you everything we did, but no, that would spoil everything! The magic of this trip is that you will wake up every day to discover a great adventure. Go and enjoy yourself. You won’t want to leave."   

• LINDA HAYES FROM CALIFORNIA  •

"From the moment Carolyn came to greet us with a big smile and a hug…. (I love hugs), I felt at home.  

It was a week full of amazing cooking, photography, wine testing, trips to antique markets, flower arrangements class and much more. I loved every minute while making new friends and treasured memories. Thank you for the hospitality and the wonderful meals.

If you have the opportunity to join a retreat overseas, this is the one, you must go!  You will not regret your decision. Carolyn, you are such a kind and caring person. Looking forward to seeing you again." 

• RITA READE FROM CALIFORNIA  •

"I appreciated that the scheduling was very easy, allowing ample time for breakfast with no rushing to catch a bus or make a tour. All of the activities had a level of quality that made me feel very privileged to be there and the info we got before the trip was so helpful: exchanging money, Florence airport, Transport (shuttle vans), private Facebook page, what to pack. For someone like me who had never been to Italy, each of these things gave me such peace of mind.

The goal of immersion into everyday life was fully realized. I feel re-oriented to a lifestyle I can create at home. Warmth. Hospitality. Simplicity. Quality. Pride."
 
• KAREN FLOREK FROM CALIFORNIA •

"With a balance of city and country, elegance and authenticity, we were treated to local foods, wines, and tastes of the Italian "Sweet Life", including estate tours, antique markets and lessons in crafting, cooking, and photography.  It was a visual, social and gastronomical feast, highlighted by the rich interaction of interesting people:  Leaders, locals, and lovely ladies - none of whom will be forgotten.

 I'm grateful for a most excellent experience, and the many delightful surprises that were added to our days!  Photographs, friendships and a head full of memories:  yet another RE-treat!  I absolutely recommend taking advantage of this opportunity for yourself!"

• ELIZABETH CECCHETTINI FROM NORTH CAROLINA •

“I can honestly say that La Dolce Vita Retreat 2019 was one of the best experiences I’ve ever treated myself to. The pampering, friendships made, beautiful surroundings, fabulous food, and more was just perfect and totally worth it.

I was changed for the better.”

• HILARY BRACHER FROM TEXAS  •

“Carolyn did a superb job of reassuring me that La Dolce Vita would be a trip to rejuvenate and renew my body, mind and spirit. Her extensive attention to detail, and preparation leading up to the journey were thorough and extremely helpful.

The art classes were a whirlwind of creative heaven! The food was yummy and the cooking classes and excursions were as promised - everyone seemed to really love all of it! The other women were like-minded spirits and although each of us brought our own desires and wish lists, we all shared the camaraderie of the overall greatness of a sense of adventure in ITALY!

It was well worth it and I will definitely go again on another Prone to Wander retreat.”

• MIA MOYAD FROM MICHIGAN  •

"This was my first ever women's retreat of any kind, let alone, out of the Country and by myself to boot! I didn't know what to expect, however, I did have high expectations. Well let me tell you, every expectation was 100% met in the most beautiful ways! Carolyn's attention to detail was none like I had ever seen before. From the amazing meals and the incredible flowers we found ourselves constantly surrounded by to the fabulous gifts, it was simply magical. The workshops were fun, creative and very beneficial. The wine, the cooking classes and the scenery... I felt like I was on a movie set. Carolyn's sincere kind heart showed throughout every detail. The only downside was I didn't want to leave! Thank you Carolyn for making my experience one-of-a-kind and most memorable. I cannot wait to attend again in 2019! "

• JULIA MORIN FROM CALIFORNIA •

"If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing Tuscany, this is one of the best ways! You arrive as strangers who discover the region together and magically, even though you didn’t know these ladies before you arrived, you know that they will remain an important part of your life.

This retreat was everything I didn’t even know I needed. If you are able, I highly encourage you to go. Thank you Carolyn, Orsa, Paola and everyone who made this so wonderful. Thank you to my fellow attendees for opening your hearts and letting me in... you are all safely imbedded in my heart."

• TINA TUPPER FROM ILLINOIS •

"The La Dolce Vita experience is filled with expected and unexpected moments of joy. From engaging with new friends, at a stunning retreat site, to new flavours, honed crafting skills, learning and shared moments, there is an "extra" I call the "La Dolce Vita linger" - a happiness that simmers just beneath the skin and stays soul deep, long after the retreat has ended - a feeling that stokes the fire of desire to return for another retreat."   

• LORIN GAUDIN FROM LOUISIANA •

"Attending the 2018 La Dolce Vita retreat was a highlight of my life. Carolyn Peeler is the consummate hostess. She takes every special request to heart and provides an extraordinary experience. Don't be afraid to go by yourself! I did on purpose to make new friends. From the time you land in Italy your every need is cared for. The food, activities, accommodations, travel and hosts are remarkable. Did I forget shopping? Plenty of that. Wine, laughs and good times in abundance."

• MISSY SWARTZ FROM NEW JERSEY •

"Life Changing! That is the best way I can describe my feelings about the La Dolce Vita Retreat. It was an uplifting, creative, joyful experience that I wish I had signed up for years ago. It brought me out of my comfort zone and invigorated me. The location was amazing, itinerary could not be more perfect, the food (don't get me started), new friends, and beautiful Italian families we encountered, I cannot find the words to do it justice. As a lover of all things creative, I came back with new insight from what I had learned. Carolyn's attention to detail is absolute perfection and she truly is an amazing person! I am forever changed and it is the best gift I have ever given to myself and I promise it will be for you too!"

• DANA MERTZ FROM TEXAS •