Frequently Asked Questions

Want to know more about our slow travel retreats in Italy and Greece?

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!

General

  • 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 and Greece.

  • 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 with no more than 12 guests per retreat. 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 travellers. It’s about creating memorable, close-knit experiences where every detail is tailored to you.

  • Yes! I’m dedicated to ensuring your Mediterranean 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 and Greece, 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 accommodated. Italian and Greek 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 or dairy free, rest assured that Italy and Greece is well-versed in these conditions, with many meals adaptable to suit your needs. Lactose intolerance is also recognised, 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.

  • Transfers to and from the retreat are included in your package. You’ll receive details about your arrival and departure transfer. About 2 months prior to the retreat, I’ll provide you with the exact times for your transfers, allowing you to arrange your travel accordingly. Rest assured, you’ll be greeted and transported to the retreat in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable start to your journey!

  • Each day at the Savour the Slow retreat offers a unique blend of experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Puglia and Andros while also enjoying moments of relaxation. Here’s a general idea of what to expect depending on the retreat you choose:

    • Some Days: We’ll head out after breakfast for curated experiences, such as guided excursions to local markets, cooking classes, or olive oil and wine tastings. These adventures will deepen your connection to the region’s rich traditions and flavors.

    • Other Days: We’ll spend the morning enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the retreat accommodation. You can relax by the pool, explore the grounds, or simply unwind in the serene environment. Each day will be designed to include downtime, so you can recharge at your own pace.

    • Travel: Puglia and Andros are large and beautiful regions, but our longest distance traveled by private transport is about 1 hour. This means you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

    For the Rest, Reset & Connect retreat, the structure is slightly different, focusing on wellness and personal reflection. You can find an example daily itinerary here.

    For the Salt, Olive Oil & Stories and Trapezi retreats, the structure is focused on a culinary immersion where cooking is the main focus. You can find an example daily itinerary on their respective retreat pages here.

    Every day will be thoughtfully planned to balance exploration and relaxation, ensuring that you have a fulfilling and rejuvenating experience throughout your retreat!

Accommodation

  • Our retreats are hosted in carefully chosen luxury properties, each selected for its unique character and exceptional service. These boutique accommodations reflect the local culture and heritage, offering an intimate setting for small groups to connect and fully immerse themselves in Italy and Greece’s beauty and traditions.

  • Our accommodations are handpicked for their distinctive luxury and charm, aligning with the unique experiences our retreats offer. However, only single luxury rooms with private ensuites are available for Italy, providing a more intimate and personal experience.

    For the Trapezi Retreat in Greece, we have a variety of rooms options including private and shared accommodation. To view the room options for Trapezi, click here.

    For specific inquiries or to discuss room layout options for your chosen retreat, feel free to contact us directly at hello@jacquitoumbas.com. I’m here to ensure your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

  • All of our private rooms each have a private bathroom. On the Trapezi Retreat, there are shared bathrooms with some select rooms.

Pricing & Cancellation Policy

  • Yes, all prices, including deposits are quoted per person and listed in Euros (€). A €500 non-refundable deposit per person, per retreat is required to secure your spot. If you are booking for two people and selecting the ‘Share With A Friend’ option on select accommodations, the non-refundable deposit required is €1000 (500 Euro per person, per retreat).

    For information on pricing, refer to the ‘Rooms & Prices’ section on the individual retreat page. You can view all retreats here.

  • Our retreats are crafted to offer a comprehensive experience, covering luxury 4-star accommodation, tour transportation, airport or ferry transfers depending on the retreat location at set times, all planned activities, most meals (including a glass of wine at dinner), 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 flavours 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 organising 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 €500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot on the retreat.

    • Payment Plan: You can choose to pay the remaining balance in 4 easy instalments

    • 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. Additionally, the “Rest, Connect & Reset” wellness retreat will include daily movement sessions, such as a run/walk or movement class with Tilli Conias. 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, and we have a selection of local doctors available who can come to your accommodation if needed.

    Please note that 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.

  • Absolutely! We understand that everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to social interaction. If you need some time to recharge, feel free to take a day for yourself. Whether you want to relax at the retreat, explore nearby areas on your own, or simply enjoy some quiet time, you are welcome to do so. Please note that no activities are mandatory, so you can participate at your own pace. Your experience is all about finding the right balance for you, and we want you to feel comfortable and rejuvenated throughout the retreat!

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.

Travel Documentation

  • For entry into Italy and Greece, travellers must possess a passport with at least 3 months of validity beyond their planned departure date from Italy or Greece, though 6 months validity is recommended for added security. As visa requirements are expected to change and the introduction of the ETIAS system in Europe, please check with your nearest Italian or Greek embassy or consulate for specific entry requirements based on your citizenship and residency.

  • We highly recommend that all our travelers secure comprehensive travel insurance. This policy should encompass both travel cancellations and medical emergencies within Italy, including international evacuation coverage. Given the unpredictability of travel, insurance ensures peace of mind against unforeseen illness, injury, or other emergencies.

    Cancellation insurance is also an option, as refunds from us adhere strictly to our terms and conditions, without exceptions for unforeseen circumstances. We recommend obtaining insurance promptly after your trip confirmation and are happy to suggest reputable providers upon request. We will request your policy number be sent for our records before the retreat commences.