A pampering, fun-in-the-sun adventure!
Ischia, Procida, Capri, Italy
Sept 20th - 27th, 2024
Are you yearning for an unforgettable adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, rejuvenating experiences, and ultimate relaxation?
If so, I've got the perfect retreat for you!
But before I share the incredible details of this trip, I want you to imagine this...
You are standing on a mountainside overlooking one of Italy's most renowned thermal spas. The scene before you is nothing short of breathtaking - Ischia's picturesque coastline stretches out like a meticulously crafted painting, captivating your senses.
You have just wandered through lush greenery and a labyrinth of inviting thermal pools, each one strategically arranged to allow the warm waters to cascade from one to another in a soothing symphony.
The sparkling water beckons, inviting you to embark on your own journey of relaxation and rejuvenation in this idyllic oasis of calm.
You lower your body into the jetted pool and allow the soothing ambiance to transport you to a state of pure tranquility.Â
You now understand why the act of bathing in the thermal waters in Ischia is not merely a physical experience. Itâs an opportunity to reconnect with oneself, to find solace in the embrace of nature's healing powers, and to emerge renewed and refreshed.
Ahhh...I hope this little imaginative journey will inspire you to consider giving yourself an incredible gift: a magical escape to the islands of Italy!
And the best part about joining me? For once, thereâs nothing to plan or manage. Every little detail has been carefully orchestrated so you can just sit back and enjoy the freedom that comes with not being in charge.
INTRODUCINGâŚ
The Idyllic Islands of Italy
Ischia, Procida & Capri
Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes...including you.
~Â Anne Lamott
Do any of these sound like you?
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â  Your life has been lacking some serious fun
â  You don't remember the last time you saw your passport
â  You aren't interested in the "typical" tour
â  You crave a more authentic travel experience
â  You like having someone who's "been there, done that" show you the ropes
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Yes? Perfect, then you're in the right place! đ
Here's a sample of what you can expect:
Exciting Adventures
When Iâm designing a retreat, I try to imagine visiting an area for the first time. What would I want to see? Where would I want to go? What experiences would best represent the region weâre visiting?
Well lucky you, because I have experienced Ischia...not once, but SIX times!Â
That's right, Ischia is truly my favorite island in Italy so I keep going back. Each time I visit, I discover new places to explore. I make friends with locals, who share their secrets, like which restaurants are the best, where to find the deals, and so much moreâŚall a huge plus when visiting a foreign destination.
So rest assured that you are in good hands. I have created an itinerary that incorporates spas, nature, history, architecture, water, culture, adventure, shopping, dining and more. Itâs definitely going to be an unforgettable experience. EeekâŚ.I canât wait!!!
Delectable Cuisine
Ischia boasts a rich and delightful cuisine that reflects its coastal heritage and influences from nearby regions. The island's culinary offerings feature the freshest seafood, locally grown produce and savory pasta dishes.
Youâll have the opportunity to sample Linguine alle Vongole, made with fresh tomatoes and clams as well as a variety of mouthwatering pizzas, crafted with locally produced cheeses and sun-ripened tomatoes. Another local favorite is Coniglio all' Ischitana, a tender rabbit stew simmered in white wine and herbs.
Your sweet tooth will delight in the array of pastries and desserts, such as Pastiera Napoletana, a sweet ricotta and grain pie, and Lingue di Procida, a light, crunchy biscuit that pairs perfectly with limoncello, the islandâs signature liqueur.
To complement these epicurean treats, the area's vineyards produce a range of excellent wines that thrive in the volcanic soil. I told you you wouldn't go hungry! Are you salivating yet?
Plenty of Pampering
The island of Ischia is overflowing with natural thermal springs that have been renowned for their healing properties since ancient times.
Nearly every hotel (including ours) has a spa facility with massage and body treatments, saunas, steam rooms and pools of different temperatures. Iâve booked everyone an indulgent massage during our stay!
Another favorite activity when Iâm in Ischia is heading to either Negombo or Poseidon Terme. Both are set on the mountainside and surrounded by lush gardens.Â
Youâre in luck, because weâll be visiting both Negombo and Poseidon on this pampering retreat. Get ready for a delightful escape to a world filled with relaxation and rejuvenation!
Bountiful Shopping
A trip to the islands of Italy wouldnât be complete without a little retail therapy. In Ischia, there will be several occasions where you can wander through charming boutique shops selling local ceramics, artisanal products, and traditional clothing.
Capri, with its glamorous reputation, offers a more upscale shopping scene. Stroll along the fashionable Via Camerelle and Via Vittorio Emanuele, lined with high-end designer boutiques and elegant jewelry stores.
From colorful sundresses to exquisite leather goods and handmade sandals, shopping in Ischia and Capri is an unforgettable adventure, capturing the essence of Italian elegance and coastal allure.
No matter what your shopping budget is, youâll be certain to find unique treasures to commemorate your time in Italy!
Meet Your Guide:
I am SO excited you are considering joining me in Ischia! It's my very favorite island in the world! I promise you wonât regret investing in this gift to yourself. đ
Linda Beach, Your Fun Facilitator
Not long ago, I needed a big change. My life was a âGroundhog Day Parody,â with every moment blending together into a blurry blob of BLAH. I was tired of the âsame old, same oldâ and desperately craved more passion and adventure.Â
So in early 2016, I took a huge leap. I sold my business, gave away nearly everything I owned, and moved to Belize (where I didnât know a soul). GulpâŚtalk about terrifying! đłÂ
But it was so worth it! For the next couple of years, I watched the palms blowing in the breeze as I worked from my balcony.Â
I also started visiting "must see" places on my bucket list. I crisscrossed the world looking for adventure, talking to strangers and exploring ancient cathedrals and ruins. Along the way, I rekindled my lust for lifeâŚjust like you will when you join me in Italy!
I love nothing more than to take like-minded people on retreat and watch them have the time of their life! Ready to see what grand adventures I have in store for you? Trust me, it's going to be epic! đ¤Š
Some love from past participants...â¤ď¸
Jessica Hanaghan
Linda went above and beyond to make sure every detail of her Fun in Tuscany Retreat was perfect. The accommodations were amazing, the food was to die for, the activities were incredible and the community we created was wellâŚPerfect! We are now a family and friends for life. If you have the opportunity to go on a retreat with Linda, GO. I canât recommend her adventures enough!
Leslie Wall
I attended the Footloose and Fancy-Free Retreat in May of 2023 with 10 other women, most of whom I hadnât met before. After the first day together we were like old friends! Linda and her assistant, Ann Marie, were so helpful, knowledgeable and organized that it made the whole experience easy. It was a whirlwind of activity where every detail was taken care of. It was the trip that I had been dreaming of for a long time and I absolutely would do it again!
Donna Martindale
Linda is an expert at putting together unforgettable retreats. I attended the Fun in Tuscany Retreat and was blown away by the attention to detail. The tours, food and wine tastings were absolutely wonderful and there were countless unexpected surprises. The friendships I made will last a lifetime (along with the magical memories). I’m already packing for Linda’s next adventure!
Check out this incredible itinerary!
Day 1: Friday, Sept. 20th
Arrive into Italy and make your way by train and ferry to Ischia. Once there, weâll meet at our stunning 5* hotel, located in a charming seaside town on the north-east tip of Ischia island. With a medieval castle as its backdrop, you'll love exploring the winding streets, sunny pavement cafes and sherbet-colored shops.Â
After you settle into your room and take a well-deserved rest, weâll gather for a sumptuous welcome feast overlooking the castle. Youâll get to know your fellow retreat participants while we review the itinerary for the incredible week ahead.
Meals included: dinner
Day 2: Saturday, Sept. 21st
After a delicious breakfast buffet, weâll make our way by foot to the enchanting Castello Aragonese d'Ischia, where history and beauty converge in a dramatic seaside setting.
Once we cross the picturesque stone bridge, weâll enter the castle's imposing walls to explore secret passages, lush gardens and fortified towers. The history of this ancient fortress is fascinating! Be prepared to be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the picturesque town of Ischia Ponte!
After our visit to the castle, youâll have the rest of the day to nap, roam around our little village or take a taxi (or bus...a real adventure! đĽł) to other parts of the island.
It would take days to see it all so youâll have lots of choices. Or, just grab your towel and head to our hotelâs rooftop pool, private beach or luxurious spa. Weâll regroup after dinner for a nightcap before heading off to sweet dreams. AhhhâŚwhat a great way to kick off our time together!
Meals included: breakfast
Day 3: Sunday, Sept. 22nd
Pack your beach bag and grab your sunscreen because we're heading out to our first spa adventure! đŚđż
We'll start this relaxing day wandering through Giardini La Mortella, the spectacular sub tropical and Mediterranean garden created in 1956 by Susana Walton, the wife of English composer, Sir William Walton.
Youâll marvel at dramatic volcanic rock formations, exotic plants and breathtaking views of the bay of Forio.
From there we'll head to Negombo, with 22 acres of thermal, mineral-rich pools, cascading waterfalls and sweeping sea views, all designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.
Youâll have hours to explore the lush tropical gardens, enjoy the soothing sounds of nature and relax in the sun's warm embrace.
Enjoy a tranquil massage in the onsite spa or grab a cool tropical drink and venture down to the private beach. The soft sands and gentle waves will beckon you to further unwind and let go.
After we've had our fill of sunshine and healing mineral waters, we'll take a short hike down into the town of Lacco Ameno for a delicious meal at our favorite trattoria. Wait until you watch the sun set over Il Fungo, the famed "mushroom rock" just off the coast of this quaint little town. Incredible! đ
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Day 4: Monday, Sept. 23rd
Weâre off to explore the colorful island of Procida! Weâll embark on a scenic ferry ride to this tiny neighboring island, where weâll wander Procida's narrow streets and discover its hidden gems around every corner.
Our first stop with be Marina Grande, a captivating town filled with charming boutiques and winding streets. From there weâll ride electric bikes to the most incredible vantage point, where youâll witness a panorama of pastel-colored houses cascading across the landscape.
Weâll descend down the hill into Marina Corricella, where fishermen painted their houses in different colors so that they could recognize them from the sea.
As a group, we'll savor a delicious lunch in the postcard-inspiring harbor adorned with fishing boats and lively cafes. Afterwards, youâll have time to explore on your own. Royal palace, secluded beach, 11th century abbey, lively shopping tripâŚthe island is yours to discover!
After we return to our hotel in Ischia, feel free to wind down this incredible day any way you choose.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 5: Tuesday, Sept. 24th
Today is yours to explore the picturesque island of Ischia. Just make sure you make time for the relaxing spa treatment I booked for you at the luxurious Alysandy Spa, just across the street in our sister hotel Miramare e Castello.
When youâre not busy being pampered, you can choose from a dozen different activities. Head to Forio to visit the breathtaking Chiesa del Soccorso, an ancient church perched on a cliff overlooking the sea.
Embark on an invigorating hike to the top of Monte Epomeo, with the most incredible sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and the island's picturesque coastline.
Walk to nearby Ischia Porto and stroll down the enchanting streets, saving time for shopping and a delicious lunch by the sea. Spend the day at the beach, combing the sands for smooth fragments of pottery (Italyâs version of sea glass!) between sips of your refreshing spritz.
Weâll gather back together for dinner so we can all share stories of the dayâs adventures. With a blend of cultural exploration and indulgent spa treatment, this free day will be the perfect respite on this lively retreat.
Meals included: Breakfast, dinner
Day 6: Wednesday, Sept. 25th
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we embark by ferry to the island of Capri! Surrounded by sparkling azure waters, this Mediterranean gem is renowned for its beauty and timeless charm.
Weâll spend the morning strolling through the streets of Capri Town, lined with boutique shops, quaint cafes, and winding alleyways. Next we'll take in the stunning views from the Gardens of Augustus, where Mediterranean flora offers a vibrant backdrop to the rugged coastline.
Then weâll venture to Anacapri, a picturesque village perched high atop the island, boasting unparalleled vistas and a slower pace of life. Prepare for a thrill as we ascend Mount Solaro by chairlift for an unrivaled 360-degree view of the island and the surrounding seascape.
Together weâll savor mouthwatering local cuisine, including freshly caught seafood and delectable lemon-infused dishes, accompanied by the finest local wines.
After returning to Ischia, enjoy a relaxing dinner at the hotel or in town while you relish the end of another day watching the distant lights dance across the sea. Spectacular! đ¤Š
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Day 7: Thursday, Sept. 26th
Are you ready for another amazing spa day? After breakfast, weâll head to Sant' Angelo, a delightful little village nestled on the southern coast. This picture-worthy destination will captivate you with its pedestrian-only streets, quaint shops and bustling harbor.
Next weâll venture up the road to Poseidon Terme, my favorite thermal spa in all the world! Itâs also the largest thermal park on the island of Ischia, with highly curative thermal waters that feed over twenty pools with temperatures ranging from 82° F to 104° F.
Youâll have the entire afternoon to explore the grounds, which cascade down the verdant mountainside and overlook the beautiful Bay of Citara. When youâre not soaking in a jetted pool, relax under one of the raffia parasols lining the private beach or work up a sweat in the thermal steam grotto. Just make sure to take a refreshing dip in the icy Kneipp bath afterwards. It aids circulationâŚpromise! đĽśđ
As the sun slips into the sea, weâll enjoy a delectable dinner right on the beach. This is the perfect spot to catch the most incredible sunset. Iâm confident Poseidon will forever hold place in your heart as the ultimate relaxation destination.
Meals included: Breakfast, dinner
Day 8: Friday, Sept. 27th
Today is the day you start your journey back to the ârealâ world. Weâll gather at breakfast for our final farewells before you take the ferry back to Naples for your onward journey. If youâve chosen to extend your stay in Italy, Iâll be happy to offer suggestions on where to explore next.Â
While itâs always sad to say goodbye, this isnât the end of our time together. Weâll see each other in our private Facebook group to share photos and stories. Youâll have made unforgettable memories and some new friends to help remind you that life is short so never ever stop exploring!
Arrivederci!
Meals included: Breakfast
Our Beautiful Accommodations...
Luxury Seaside Hotel
Nestled on the picturesque island of Ischia in Italy, the Mare Blu Terme Hotel offers a truly enchanting stay for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation.
Surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens and boasting breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, this exquisite hotel exudes a sense of luxury and relaxation. From the moment you step foot into the elegant lobby, you are greeted by warm smiles and exceptional hospitality.
The well-appointed rooms, adorned with tasteful decor and modern amenities, provide a peaceful sanctuary where you can unwind and indulge in classic Italian comfort.
The hotel's renowned thermal spa, with its healing waters and expert therapists, offers a range of revitalizing treatments that soothe the body and soul. When youâre ready for a dip, you can choose from one of several indoor and outdoor pools, all surrounded by beautiful gardens. Wander across the street to the sister hotel and enjoy the bubbling hot tubs with views of the Aragonese Castle.
Delicious cuisine awaits at the hotel's gourmet restaurants, where local flavors blend seamlessly with international influences to create culinary masterpieces. Each morning youâll indulge in a breakfast buffet overflowing with homemade pastries, seasonal fruit and a variety of sweet and savory dishes.
Whether strolling along the private beach, being pampered in the spa, or enjoying a sunset cocktail on the terrace, a stay at Mare Blu Terme Hotel promises to be an unforgettable experience. Heavenly!
Check Out These Bonuses!
Travel Planning
It can be overwhelming trying to find the best flight routes (and prices!) and figure out where to stay pre & post retreat. You'll likely need help with train and ferry schedules too. Take advantage of my expertise with Italy travel by hopping on a Zoom call with me!
Pre-Trip Happy Hours
Before our big adventure, I'll host a couple group calls to discuss our exciting plans and get to know each other. Not only will you be prepared for the journey ahead, but once we join together for our Welcome Dinner, itâll be like meeting up with old friends!
Private Facebook Group
As soon as you register, youâll be invited to join our private group where you can meet your travel companions and find the perfect roommate. We'll be sharing travel tips and other important information about the Idyllic Islands of Italy Retreat!
More love from past participants...đ
Susie Goodwin
Iâve attended two of Lindaâs retreats now and they were both truly remarkable experiences! Both offered a perfect balance of culture, history, sightseeing and amazing food. We enjoyed multiple wine tastings, a lively catamaran cruise along the coast of Tuscany, an adventurous Vespa excursion, and my favoriteâŚa bike tour on the walls of Lucca. Linda is fun, knowledgeable and organized. Both the Footloose & Fancy-Free Retreat and Fun in Tuscany Adventure were life-changing journeys for me and I am immensely grateful to Linda for her dedication and the wonderful experience she created for me and the other guests.
Terry Packard
When I joined Linda on her retreat in Tuscany, it had been on my bucket list for many decades. The program that Linda put together surpassed all my expectations. She has an eye for detail and provided our group with everything we could have imagined and more! The amazing people I met on the retreat have all become my new friends. I am looking forward to joining Linda for more fun adventures in the future. I am grateful I said yes and highly recommend you do too. I'm still smiling because it was the trip of a lifetime! đ
Tracie Joyner
I can't thank Linda enough for the wonderful experience she curated for me and the other women. Although I generally prefer to travel solo, it was so nice to have everything pre-planned. I really enjoyed getting to know the other ladies from all over the US. We all got along fabulously and still keep in touch! Linda and her retreat assistant were fun, knowledgeable, and organized. I felt cared for and supported throughout the retreat. I came home feeling renewed and inspired, which was a great asset to my art and photography business. I look forward to joining Linda on another amazing retreat one day soon!
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
What if I can't afford a trip to Italy?
I can't take the time away from my family
I don't know how I feel about traveling with a group of strangers.
I'm stressed thinking about all the activities. Will I have any time to myself?
Do I have to be physically fit for this retreat?
Which airport do I fly into?
Can I arrive early or stay longer?
What about travel restrictions?
What will the weather be like in Italy in September & October?
I have more questions and want to talk with someone personally.
Head over to the registration page & grab your spot!
I'm already packing! đ§łđWould you like to know more about this amazing journey?
I get it, I'm excited too! I'd love to hop on a call and answer any questions you might have asap! Just click the button below...âŹď¸
Let's chat!
