Soul reviving retreats.

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General

Dive into the details of our ‘Savour the Slow’ retreats. Whether you’re curious about our immersive experiences, the delightful culinary adventures, or the cultural gems you’ll discover, we’ve got all your questions covered. Explore the FAQs below and get ready to embrace a journey of slow, meaningful travel that will nourish your soul and ignite your passion for food and culture. Let’s make your next adventure unforgettable!

 

Expect a journey that invites you to immerse yourself in local rich culinary traditions, stunning landscapes, and warm community. From hands-on cooking classes with local chefs to leisurely explorations of historic towns, our retreat is designed to celebrate the slow and beautiful rhythm of life in Italy.

This retreat is for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and dive into a more mindful, slow-paced way of traveling. Whether you’re a food lover, culture enthusiast, or simply in need of relaxation, “Savour the Slow” offers something special for you. Everyone from couples and friends to solo travelers are welcome, creating a rich tapestry of experiences and backgrounds.
Age is but a number in our groups, a mix that fosters unique intergenerational bonds, as our guests connect over the universal language of travel and gastronomy.

Our retreats are intentionally intimate, limited to 9 guests. This small size ensures a personal, in-depth experience, allowing us access to unique places and activities not typically available to larger groups or independent travelers. It’s about creating memorable, close-knit experiences where every detail is tailored to you.

Yes! I’m dedicated to ensuring your Italian adventure is seamless from start to finish. Whether you’re travelling before or after the retreat, I’m on hand to offer recommendations for transportation, accommodations, my favourite food spots, and experiences. My goal is for you to experience the best of Italy, stress-free. Let me help you craft the perfect travel plan, ensuring every aspect of your journey enriches your “Savour the Slow” experience.

Vegetarians and most dietary intolerances or allergies can be accomodated. Italian cuisine’s reliance on dairy and eggs means I won’t be able to cater to vegans. For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, rest assured that Italy is well-versed in these conditions, with many meals adaptable to suit your needs. Lactose intolerance is also recognized, with alternatives like goat or sheep’s milk readily available. Please contact me in advance at hello@jacquitoumbas.com to discuss any specific dietary needs to ensure I can meet your requirements during the retreat.

Our retreats are set in carefully chosen luxury properties that stand out for their unique character and exceptional service. I opt for boutique accommodations, perfect for small groups, while reflecting the local culture and heritage.

Our accommodations are handpicked for their distinctive luxury and charm, aligning with the unique experiences our retreats offer. While I strive to accommodate twin bed preferences, the availability of such room configurations may vary across different Italian regions. Traditional twin rooms might be rare, with alternatives occasionally including a large double bed paired with a sofa or single bed. For specific inquiries or to discuss room layout options for your chosen retreat, please feel welcome to contact us directly at hello@jacquitoumbas.com. I’m here to ensure your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

No, each room has a private bathroom.

Pricing & Cancellation Policy

Yes, all my prices are quoted per person and listed in Euros. For solo travelers seeking a private room, please be aware that a supplement will apply. For detailed information on pricing, including any additional costs for solo accommodations, refer to the pricing schedule of each specific trip.

  • Our retreats are crafted to offer an encompassing experience, covering luxury 4-star accommodation, tour transportation, all planned activities, most meals (inclusive of wine), and tips for drivers and guides to ensure a seamless journey.

Not included in the tour price are:

    • International round-trip airfare and domestic travel to the tour departure point.
    • Travel insurance to safeguard your trip.
    • Activities outside the planned itinerary, allowing for personal exploration.
    • Additional hotel expenses such as room service, bar tabs, and laundry services.
    • Any meals and beverages not specified in our itinerary, giving you the freedom to explore local flavors on your own.
No, the prices for Savour the Slow retreats do not cover airfares or ground transportation to the tour’s starting point. Guests are responsible for arranging their flights to and from the tour. However, I’m more than happy to refer a local travel agent to assist with organizing flights and transfers to the tour departure point upon your arrival. Feel free to reach out for any help or guidance you might need in planning your journey to join us.

I understand that plans can change unexpectedly, which is why we have a clear cancellation policy to navigate such situations fairly for my guests, local partners, and ourselves. Here’s a brief overview:

  • Full Refund: Cancel up to 100 days before departure for a full refund, minus a €250 service fee per person to cover non-refundable costs.
  • 50% Refund: Cancellations made between 99 to 61 days before departure are eligible for a 50% refund.
  • No Refund: Cancellations within 60 days of departure incur a 100% cancellation fee.
  • For complete details, please refer to our full terms and conditions. We’re here to assist you through any unforeseen circumstances and answer any questions regarding this policy.

Yes, we offer flexible payment plans to make it easier for you to manage the cost of your retreat. Here’s how it works:

  • Deposit: A 30% deposit is required to secure your spot on the retreat.
  • Payment Plan: You can choose to pay the remaining balance in installments:
    • 25% is due 120 days before departure.
    • 25% is due 90 days before departure.
    • 20% is due 60 days before departure.

The total cost of the retreat is divided into these scheduled payments, allowing you to spread out the cost. All payments should be completed by the specified deadlines to confirm your reservation.

If you have any questions about the payment plan or need assistance, please feel free to contact us!

Health & Safety

Our retreats are designed for individuals with a moderate level of fitness due to the nature of activities involved. Expect walking tours through historic districts with uneven cobblestone paths and countryside explorations that may require more extensive walking. Preparing for some physical activity will ensure you enjoy every aspect of our tours comfortably.

If illness occurs while on retreat, our first priority is ensuring you receive prompt and appropriate medical attention. We’ll assist you in accessing healthcare services swiftly.


According to our terms and conditions, we’re unable to offer refunds for any part of the trip missed due to illness. All medical costs, including treatment, testing, medication, or any quarantine-related expenses, will be your responsibility, or should be covered by your travel insurance policy. It’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers such situations to mitigate unexpected expenses.

Retreat Planning

To ensure you’re fully prepared and as excited as we are for your adventure, we’ve put together a range of resources. You’ll receive a specially curated list of books, articles, and podcast episodes that offer a deep dive into the cultural, culinary, and historical fabric of your destination. Additionally, we provide recommendations for exploring the departure point of our trip if you plan to arrive early, highlighting can’t-miss spots and activities.


Two months before the retreat, we’ll host an online call for everyone to meet. This session is a great opportunity to connect with fellow travelers, ask any questions, and start building the community you’ll be exploring with. Plus, as a bonus for joining our journey, you’ll gain complimentary access to all my Italy City Guides. These guides are packed with insider tips and must-see locations, ensuring you make the most out of your trip to Italy.


This preparation package is designed to enrich your experience, offering you insights and practical tips to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Italy.

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