May 8 - 15, 2027
If you're a woman who enjoys travel, antiquing, creativity and good food, Carolyn Peeler invites you to journey to the heel of Italy's boot with her next spring with special guest Melissa Parks, aka: social media's @megillicutti, for a week long antiquing
adventure - this time in the south of Italy!
As we journey through the countryside, visiting markets and second hand shops, you’ll rack up serious savings over North American antique prices, allowing you to come home with some amazing timeworn souvenirs.
PTW Puglia: antiquing edition
Due to an incredible response, our Puglia Antiquing Retreat is sold out!
We invite you to join our waitlist. You'll be contacted should a place become available
and will receive priority registration for our next Antiquing Retreat.
Due to an incredible response, our Puglia Antiquing Retreat is sold out!
We invite you to join our waitlist. You'll be contacted should a place become available and will receive priority registration for our next Antiquing Retreat.
Pricing: from $5500 US Dollars
WATCH A SHORT VIDEO OF WHAT
TO EXPECT AT PTW PUGLIA: ANTIQUING EDITION
WATCH A SHORT VIDEO OF WHAT TO EXPECT AT PTW PUGLIA: ANTIQUING EDITION
CONTACT US
TO JOIN THE WAITLIST
Puglia, which sits at the heel of Italy's boot, is a land of whitewashed villages, turquoise seas, ancient olive groves, and sun-bleached stone.
Like its cuisine, its antiques tell the story of the region. Unlike Tuscany, whose wealth and Renaissance history produced grand furniture and fine decorative arts, Puglia was traditionally a poorer, agricultural region. The treasures you'll discover here are often humbler but no less beautiful: weathered pottery, vintage kitchen wares, farmhouse furnishings, baskets, tools, religious pieces, and the utilitarian objects of everyday life.
For antique lovers, this is part of the magic. Puglian antiques possess a rustic authenticity that feels deeply connected to the land and its history. And, they often come with price tags far gentler than those found in central Italy.
Join hostess Carolyn Peeler as we explore markets, antique shops, and hidden corners of this captivating region in search of one-of-a-kind treasures. We'll handle the planning, transportation, and logistics so that your only task is to wander, discover, and enjoy the adventure alongside fellow antique enthusiasts.
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHAT TO EXPECT
Combining antiquing with select creative and culinary activities that will enrich your time
in Puglia, this retreat is specifically designed for those who have a passion for vintage.
Joining Carolyn, for her third Prone to Wander Retreat, will be special guest antique dealer and published writer in "Flea Market Style" and "Lived-In Style" magazines, Melissa Parks. Her years of experience in antiquing and styling are the perfect match for this retreat!
Our itinerary takes advantage of Carolyn's years of antiquing across Italy, the relationships she has built with her talented collaborators, and her personal experiences in shopping and transporting and/or shipping her purchases back home.
meet MELISSA
meet MELISSA
Combining antiquing with select creative and culinary activities that will enrich your time
in Puglia, this retreat is specifically designed for those who have a passion for vintage.
In addition to visiting some special places discovered through Carolyn's own passion for antiquing,
our group will attend the largest antique market in Puglia, in Ostuni.
In addition to visiting some special places discovered through Carolyn's own passion for antiquing, our group will attend the largest antique market in Puglia, in Ostuni.
During the shopping excursions throughout our week, you will find a little bit of everything:
• textiles: grains sacks, bedding, clothing, lace, etc.
• pottery: everything from large urns to small vases and bowels
• lighting: chandeliers, sconces, lamps, etc.
• artwork: framed and unframed
• religious relics/statuary
• ephemera
• books
• toys
about the antiquing
about the antiquing
During our week in Puglia, we will stay at a working Masseria (farm), which produces cheese, eggs, grains, and
olive oil from its livestock and land. Its owner, Vanessa, has a passion for preserving the past and she has
used her talent to design memorable, antique filled, communal spaces, which we will enjoy.
During our week in Puglia, we will stay at a working Masseria (farm), which produces cheese, eggs, grains, and olive oil from its livestock and land. Its owner, Vanessa, has a passion for preserving the past and she has used her talent to design memorable, antique filled, communal spaces, which we will enjoy.
Located twenty minutes outside of Lecce, aka: "Florence of the South", our group will enjoy the exclusive use of a 16th century farmhouse as our base.
From the greenhouse situated in the centre of the Masseria's courtyard, which is highly styled and looks straight from the pages of a decor magazine, to the pizza oven in the garden, this property has charm in spades and was renovated with care and attention to detail.
We will have single, double, and triple occupancy rooms available.
rooms + venue
rooms + venue
With a combination of a private chef at our host property, and local farms and restaurants preparing our meals, your culinary immersion into the cuisine of Puglia will be absolute!
From the pasta shape seen all 'round the region, orecchiette, to simple frise, meat bombettes, and pasticciotto, Puglia's food culture differentiates itself from the Italy you might know from previous trips to the Northern or Central regions of the country.
Come prepared to eat seasonal fare, made simply with great passion and dedication to quality ingredients.
meals & culinary explorations
Being introduced to the culinary traditions and local dishes of a region is a given at a Prone to Wander
gathering, and during our time together you will be introduced to the "cucina povera" of Puglia.
Your registration to PTW Puglia: Antiquing Edition
May 8-15, 2027 includes the following:
Your registration to PTW Puglia: Antiquing Edition May 8-15, 2027 includes the following:
• 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners.
• A welcome gift, including your custom retreat magazine.
•Several casual "chats" with our featured guest, Melissa Parks over the course of our week.
• One creative workshop with jeweller Isabella founder of Radice Nomade. Together we will make a visual keepsake of our week together.
• One day trip to an Italian antique market in Ostuni.
• One culinary lesson at a spectacular Masseria featured in the pages of Vogue magazine.
• A visit to the Lecce local (non-antique) market. It is where the locals do much of their shopping for housewares, clothing and shoes. It is always beloved by retreat attendees.
• Visits to antique stores and some of Carolyn's favourite second hand stores where treasures can be found when you dig!
• A cheese tasting where we will sample the exceptional cheeses produced by our host Masseria.
• A Q&A with Vanessa, the owner of our host venue who is a antique lover and incredible home stylist and photographer.
• The opportunity to meet women from around the world who all share similar interests and a love of vintage!
• 7 nights accommodation, in the room category of your choice.
• Chartered bus transfers to and from the scheduled excursions on our itinerary.
• 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners.
• A welcome gift, including your custom retreat magazine.
•Several casual "chats" with our featured guest, Melissa Parks over the course of our week.
• One creative workshop with jeweller Isabella founder of Radice Nomade. Together we will make a visual keepsake of our week together.
• One day trip to an Italian antique market in Ostuni.
• One culinary lesson at a spectacular Masseria featured in the pages of Vogue magazine.
• A visit to the Lecce local (non-antique) market. It is where the locals do much of their shopping for housewares, clothing and shoes. It is always beloved by retreat attendees.
• Visits to antique stores and some of Carolyn's favourite second hand stores where treasures can be found when you dig!
• A cheese tasting where we will sample the exceptional cheeses produced by our host Masseria.
• A Q&A with Vanessa, the owner of our host venue who is a antique lover and incredible home stylist and photographer.
• The opportunity to meet women from around the world who all share similar interests and a love of vintage!
• 7 nights accommodation, in the room category of your choice.
• Chartered bus transfers to and from the scheduled excursions on our itinerary.
The following items are not included in your retreat registration:
• Airfare
• Transfers to/from tour retreat location. (We will recommend a transfer service and anticipate that attendees will organize amongst themselves to ride-share in order to reduce costs.)
• Transportation outside of the scheduled excursions included in our itinerary.
• Insurance: cancellation, medical, etc. for the trip. (Please note: Out-of-country medical insurance is mandatory)
• Snacks and meals outside of those listed on the retreat itinerary, alcoholic beverages.
• Souvenirs, phone calls, spa services, laundry, etc.
• Tips and gratuities
There are two booking categories available for the PTW Puglia: Antiquing Edition retreat
SINGLE BOOKING RATE
For guests who would like a private bedroom:
$6500 US DOLLARS per person
or
DOUBLE BOOKING RATE
For guests who are coming with a friend, and/or who don't mind sharing a room:
$5500 US DOLLARS per person
There are two booking categories available for the PTW Puglia: Antiquing Edition retreat
SINGLE BOOKING RATE
For those who would like a private bedroom:
$6500 US DOLLARS per person
DOUBLE BOOKING RATE
For those who are coming with a friend, and/or who don't mind sharing a room:
$5500 US DOLLARS per person
pricing:
GENERAL REGISTRATION OPENS: SATURDAY JUNE 27, 2026 at 09:00 (AM) Pacific Standard Time.
To register, please email: carolyn@pronetowanderretreats.com once registration opens and request a spot. All bookings will be honoured in the order in which they are received. A $500 US Dollar non-refundable PayPal deposit is due at registration.
In your email, please let Carolyn know:
• the number of people in your booking.
• your name, address, email, and phone number, and that of anyone else in your party, if applicable.
• the room category you would like to book, single or double.
• What email address(es) we should send the $500 USD per person PayPal deposit invoice to.
If you are registering together with a friend - or group of friends, we recommend that you send the information for everyone in your party in one email so that you ensure that your booking is linked together.
Upon receiving your registration email, we will reply letting you know if there is a spot available. If there is, you will be forwarded the retreat contracts from Prone to Wander Retreats Inc for your review, along with a PayPal invoice for a $500 non-refundable booking deposit. You will have 48 hours to review the documents, and pay the invoice, to confirm your registration.
After receiving your PayPal deposit, the balance of your retreat payment will be paid to Prone to Wander Retreats Inc. by cheque, or EFT (aka: bank transfers or ACH payments). Payment options will be discussed with any non-US clients upon registration.
While we welcome payments in full, Prone to Wander Retreats Inc. does offer equal instalment plans. For this retreat, clients may choose from the following options:
• Payment in full, due July 1, 2026
• 2 equal instalments, with the payments due: July 1, 2026, and November 1, 2026
• 5 equal instalments, with the payments due: July 1, 2026; Sept 1, 2026; Nov 1, 2026; Jan 1, 2027; and March 1, 2027.
• 9 equal instalments, with the payments due: July 1, 2026; Aug 1, 2026; Sept 1, 2026; Oct 1, 2026, Nov 1, 2026; Dec 1, 2026; Jan 1, 2027; Feb 1, 2027; and March 1, 2027.
Due to the significant financial and logistical investment for producing this small group retreat, Prone to Wander Retreats Inc has a firm cancellation policy; payments are committed and non refundable. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you purchase cancellation insurance. However, if for any reason your plans change after you have registered, your spot IS fully transferable until February 15, 2027. Upon receiving your registration inquiry, attendees will be emailed the retreat terms and conditions to read and sign before submitting their deposit. The complete details of the cancellation policy can be read there.
GENERAL REGISTRATION OPENS: SATURDAY JUNE 27, 2026 at 09:00 (AM) Pacific Standard Time.
To register, please email: carolyn@pronetowanderretreats.com once registration opens and request a spot. All bookings will be honoured in the order in which they are received. A $500 US Dollar non-refundable PayPal deposit is due at registration.
In your email, please let Carolyn know:
• the number of people in your booking.
• your name, address, email, and phone number, and that of anyone else in your party, if applicable.
• the room category you would like to book, single or double.
• What email address(es) we should send the $500 USD per person PayPal deposit invoice to.
If you are registering together with a friend - or group of friends, we recommend that you send the information for everyone in your party in one email so that you ensure that your booking is linked together.
Upon receiving your registration email, we will reply letting you know if there is a spot available. If there is, you will be forwarded the retreat contracts from Prone to Wander Retreats Inc for your review, along with a PayPal invoice for a $500 non-refundable booking deposit. You will have 48 hours to review the documents, and pay the invoice, to confirm your registration.
After receiving your PayPal deposit, the balance of your retreat payment will be paid to Prone to Wander Retreats Inc. by cheque, or EFT (aka: bank transfers or ACH payments). Payment options will be discussed with any non-US clients upon registration.
While we welcome payments in full, Prone to Wander Retreats Inc. does offer equal instalment plans. For this retreat, clients may choose from the following options:
• Payment in full, due July 1, 2026
• 2 equal instalments, with the payments due: July 1, 2026, and November 1, 2026
• 5 equal instalments, with the payments due: July 1, 2026; Sept 1, 2026; Nov 1, 2026; Jan 1, 2027; and March 1, 2027.
• 9 equal instalments, with the payments due: July 1, 2026; Aug 1, 2026; Sept 1, 2026; Oct 1, 2026, Nov 1, 2026; Dec 1, 2026; Jan 1, 2027; Feb 1, 2027; and March 1, 2027.
Due to the significant financial and logistical investment for producing this small group retreat, Prone to Wander Retreats Inc has a firm cancellation policy; payments are committed and non refundable. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you purchase cancellation insurance. However, if for any reason your plans change after you have registered, your spot IS fully transferable until February 15, 2027. Upon receiving your registration inquiry, attendees will be emailed the retreat terms and conditions to read and sign before submitting their deposit. The complete details of the cancellation policy can be read there.
HOW TO REGISTER
A: A: The Brindisi (BDS) Airport is the closest to our retreat location, aproximately a 30 minute drive from our venue. Depending on flight cost, and your desire to see other areas of Italy, you may also consider flying into Bari airport (BRI) which is approximately 1 hour, 40 minutes north of the retreat location, or Rome, if you were up for renting a car, or taking the train south to Puglia.
Q: If I'd like to arrive in Puglia a few days early, do you have any suggestions of where I could spend a few days before the retreat begins?
A: Coming in a day or two early is a fantastic idea, both to mitigate the possibility of a flight delay eating into retreat time, and to give you time to get over jet lag. I absolutely adore Lecce and its historical center. It's a walkable city and is nicknamed "Florence of the South" for a reason! Alternatively, Matera while technically not in Puglia, is a one of a kind city, with unforgettable cave hotels. It's a must-see!
A: Transportation to and from the retreat is not included in your retreat tuition. You could consider renting a car as the countryside driving is very easy or, we will recommend a transfer company, and encourage the group to consider coordinating their arrival schedules in order to carpool and minimize the cost per person.
A: You are welcome to arrive at the Masseria any time after 3:30 PM on the first day of the retreat. Our welcome banquet, which is the kick off for PTW Puglia: Antiquing Edition, will begin later in the evening.
A: You will kindly be asked to check out by 10:00 AM at the end of your retreat. Should the apartments at the Masseria not be booked the next day, it is possible that we may be able to push the vacate time a bit later, but we will not know that until the night before, as the Masseria's bookings are open 24/7.
A: At this time, unfortunately, PTW Puglia: Antiquing Edition is not suited for guests with major mobility challenges. We will stay in a historic building that was constructed centuries before accessibility standards were in place. However, we do have a limited number of bedrooms where guests will not have to navigate steps to access the space. If you need one of these rooms, please mention this when you register.
There are several places in the property where you will need to traverse one step up or down to access a building and you will also have to navigate a few steps up and down in order to enter/exit our private bus charter.
Finally, guests should be comfortable walking approximately 2–5 miles at a normal pace without difficulty. This level of walking will be necessary during our day trip to the antique market.
A: Technically, the property has wifi. That being said, this is the countryside of Italy, the wifi is very spotty. During our 2026 retreat wifi was either down or dreadfully slow much of the time. So, we can not guarantee that you will have consistent access to the web. We will give recommendations for picking up an inexpensive local SIM or purchasing an e-SIM, which will allow you to aquire a data plan for your smart phone that will offer you consistent coverage while you are in Italy, or you could use roaming on your current phone plan.
A: In contrast to more heavily touristed regions of Italy, it can occasionally be difficult to find English speakers in Puglia. However, if you encounter a language barrier, it is often possible to ask around and find someone willing to assist with translation, or to communicate effectively through gestures. Carolyn has not found this to be a significant obstacle during her travels in the region.
A: While on tour, we encourage all guests to monitor their own well-being and take precautions and preventative measures as recommended by their doctors. If a guest is exhibiting symptoms commonly associated with a contagious illness (such as a cold, flu, Covid, etc.) while on a Prone to Wander Retreat, they will be encouraged to isolate and/or keep their distance in any enclosed settings (bus, interior spaces) while with the group. Guests agree to support the well-being of all fellow travelers by taking personal accountability for their own health.
A: Due to the challenges of logistics, and the up front costs of hosting our retreats, Prone to Wander Retreats, Inc. has a firm no refund policy. We strongly encourage attendees purchase cancellation insurance to protect their investment. However, your spot is fully transferable to a friend or family member, up until a cut off date, typically approximately 6-8 weeks before the retreat (the specific date will be listed in the contract for each retreat).
What previous attendees are saying about our retreats
"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 •
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"My trip on the inaugural La Dolce Vita Antiquing Edition was a most memorable experience!
Arriving to our venue was a true delight. Our room was spacious and had a fabulous view of the countryside. All our meals prepared by Orsa were so delicious and accompanied with beautiful tablescapes by Carolyn.
Carolyn’s contacts and friends in Tuscany are what made this experience so unique and one-of-a kind. No where else would I have been able to dine at a private castle after touring their wine making facility.. and the intimate Italian marble paper-making class by a master craftswoman whose family is known among royalty for their papers was a once in a lifetime experience.
Those are just a few of the wonderful memories I have of my Prone to Wander retreat. Carolyn’s thoughtfulness and attention to detail made the week such a fun, creative and beautiful experience. I will return!"
• CELESTE WOO, FROM CALIFORNIA •
"My trip on the inaugural La Dolce Vita Antiquing Edition was a most memorable experience!
Arriving to our venue was a true delight. Our room was spacious and had a fabulous view of the countryside. All our meals prepared by Orsa were so delicious and accompanied with beautiful tablescapes by Carolyn.
Wandering the outdoor antique markets as well the private warehouses of antique dealers made for antiquing heaven!
Carolyn’s contacts and friends in Tuscany are what made this experience so unique and one-of-a kind. No where else would I have been able to dine at a private castle after touring their wine making facility.. and the intimate Italian marble paper-making class by a master craftswoman whose family is known among royalty for their papers was a once in a lifetime experience.
Those are just a few of the wonderful memories I have of my Prone to Wander retreat. Carolyn’s thoughtfulness and attention to detail made the week such a fun, creative and beautiful experience. I will return!"
• CELESTE WOO, FROM CALIFORNIA •
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"I attended the inaugural antiquing edition of La Dolce Vita Retreats last year and I cannot say enough wonderful things about the entire experience! Every detail of the retreat was carefully designed to embody what living passionately in the moment means, from amazing culinary gatherings to tours of stunning places to exciting workshops and outings. This trip truly opened my eyes to how I want to live, surrounded by beauty, adventure, and community!
As a lover of antiques and vintage, I was thrilled to find myself among the most amazing markets, warehouses, and stores that held treasures I couldn’t have ever imagined. The week was packed with excursions that exceeded my expectations and filled my suitcases! But the connections that I made on this retreat are what will stay with me forever. The women I met are now life long friends and our antiquating adventures have only just begun!
If you are considering this retreat, the answer is YES! I went solo and came away with a week full of joy, laughter, memories, mementos, deep connections, and a sisterhood I’d been missing. I promise you, it will be exactly what your heart and soul needs. And I’m eagerly anticipating the next one I attend!"
• JESSICA SAXTEN, FROM MONTANA •
"I attended the inaugural antiquing edition of La Dolce Vita Retreats last year and I cannot say enough wonderful things about the entire experience! Every detail of the retreat was carefully designed to embody what living passionately in the moment means, from amazing culinary gatherings to tours of stunning places to exciting workshops and outings. This trip truly opened my eyes to how I want to live, surrounded by beauty, adventure, and community!
As a lover of antiques and vintage, I was thrilled to find myself among the most amazing markets, warehouses, and stores that held treasures I couldn’t have ever imagined. The week was packed with excursions that exceeded my expectations and filled my suitcases! But the connections that I made on this retreat are what will stay with me forever. The women I met are now life long friends and our antiquating adventures have only just begun!
If you are considering this retreat, the answer is YES! I went solo and came away with a week full of joy, laughter, memories, mementos, deep connections, and a sisterhood I’d been missing. I promise you, it will be exactly what your heart and soul needs. And I’m eagerly anticipating the next one I attend!"
• JESSICA SAXTEN, FROM MONTANA •
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"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 •
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"My trip to Morocco with Prone to Wander Retreats was, hands down, the most incredible and pampered adventure I’ve ever experienced.
Carolyn’s beautifully curated tour included everything I was looking for: safety, rich culture, exploration, exceptional food, unforgettable shopping, and plenty of pampering. Her Moroccan team—from the riad staff to our tour guide—was outstanding and never let us down.
Every experience felt thoughtfully researched and truly special, from a cooking class under a tent in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, to a luxurious spa day in the desert, to unforgettable dinners at Marrakech’s hottest restaurants.
I recommend Prone to Wander to everyone. I loved it so much that I signed up for another adventure!”
• KERRY ENGEL, FROM ALBERTA •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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"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 •
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Custom Retreats
If you are a club, family group, or organization, who would like a custom retreat or holiday itinerary planned just for you, let me know. I'd love to work alongside you to design the event of your dreams!
Marrakech
Marrakech is a city that will amaze, delight and stretch your travel acumen as you get to know its beautiful heritage buildings and palaces, kind locals, world class spas and restaurants, and the traditional artisans who call it home.
