As you consider the day ahead, you feel connected to the tranquility and abundance of this new world, knowing that every moment is an opportunity to reflect, grow, and connect with like-minded women who share your journey.
Suddenly, a smile stretches across your face and joy touches your heart as you realize this inspirational land is your home for the next week. And you know, without a doubt, that you are ready to embrace this journey of renewal and transform your life into one of peace, growth and deeply fulfilling connections.
Imagine waking up each day with a sense of inner peace, knowing you’re on a journey of personal growth, surrounded by supportive, loving people who truly understand and uplift you.
Picture yourself taking your first deep breath of the morning as you absorb the serenity of the lush greenery surrounding our villa, beckoning you to embrace who you are and evolve confidently toward your future self.
The Benefits of Joining Our Retreat
Simplify Your Life.
Our workshops and group discussions will empower you to focus on what truly matters to you. You will learn how to let go of the things that don’t align with your values, so you can set goals that reflect what’s important to you and realize your future vision on your own terms.
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Practice Mindfulness.
Using our breathing exercises and guided meditation, you’ll stay present and become fully aware of the current moment. You’ll learn to quiet your mind, reduce stress and create inner peace.
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Cultivate Gratitude.
Through deep discussions and writing exercises, you’ll notice and appreciate the small, often overlooked aspects of daily life. You’ll shift your focus from stressors to positive aspects of your life, fostering a sense of contentment and tranquility.
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Prioritize Yourself.
Our coaching and intention setting will empower you to put yourself first so you can truly define your own dreams. You will engage in activities that bring you joy and allow you to share your inner self with the world in a way that’s authentic and fulfilling, giving you full permission to show up exactly as you are.
Let Go of Perfectionism.
Through conversations and community with like-minded women, you will embrace imperfection as a natural part of your life and learn to relax and enjoy the journey.
The Venue...
Our home away from home – Villa Vetrichina – in San Casciano dei Bagni, in the province of Siena within the region of Tuscany, is the perfect base for discovering this breathtaking area of Italy. Surrounded by the Valdichiana Senese, a rolling countryside punctuated with vineyards, olive groves and hilltop towns, San Casciano dei Bagni is a quintessential Tuscan town. You’ll love exploring its narrow pedestrian-only streets, covered stone passageways, café-lined piazza, and castle on the hill (Castello di Fighine).
Villa Vetrichina, restored to its original splendor using local materials and handcrafted furnishings, provides all the comforts and services to create a truly unique experience. The large, bright rooms are characterized by classic Tuscan architectural elements like exposed wooden beams and terracotta floors. Outside, you’ll be surrounded by manicured gardens and plenty of green space to sit uninterrupted and focus on yourself. Villa Vetrichina is the perfect balance of exclusive amenities, personalized services and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Tuscan landscape.
You’ll be impressed with the layout of our villa, which encompasses three buildings. Each of the six double bedrooms is equipped with a private bathroom and shower. The heart of the house is the large living room on the first floor with sofas, a fireplace, and a dining area where we can gather. Hand-selected and perfectly placed throughout the villa, you’ll notice unique accent pieces and repurposed country furniture that create a luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere.
The covered terrace, with its three comfy sofas, is the perfect place to share laughter and conversation under the Tuscan sun or under a blanket of stars. Weather permitting, the swimming pool, surrounded by greenery, invites you to immerse yourself in pure relaxation.
Every day, the scents of freshly baked Italian delicacies will entice you to breakfast served in the garden or in front of the fireplace. The villa’s personal chef, Chef Francesco, will delight us with dinners in the villa’s restaurant or under the stars.
By the end of our retreat, you will walk away with practical ways to prioritize yourself, speak your truth, and live a more balance, peaceful and meaningful life.
The Cuisine... Made With Love
Food is at the heart of Italian culture and identity. It is created together — and eaten together — with family and friends. An Italian meal calls us to slow down and savor the moment. Italian food represents love, happiness and bringing people together, so prepare yourself to be well loved with food during our retreat!
Tuscan food originates from the no-waste tradition of rural Italy and is often referred to as cucina povera — “cooking of the poor” or “peasant cooking.” Tuscan food is simple, straightforward, and flavorful, using locally grown ingredients. Two things are said to set Tuscan cooking apart from other regions: the patience of the cook and the care taken to prepare the food.
We’ll start each day with freshly baked Italian delicacies from our host, Patrizia — croissants, muffins, soft cakes. You can also choose from savory foods such as fresh cold cuts and Italian cheeses, eggs, omelettes, various cereals, and yogurt. Breakfast is complemented with tea, coffee, cappuccino, and fruit juices.
During our stay, Chef Francesco will help us discover traditional Tuscan dishes made with the best seasonal ingredients carefully selected from local farmers and markets or from the villa’s gardens. From Ribollita (Tuscan soup), to Cacio e Pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper), to Bistecca all Fiorentina (traditional Florentine steak), whatever you decide to try will awaken your senses and fill your soul with warmth and tranquility.
Whether we’re enjoying dinner under the stars, at the villa’s guest-only restaurant or eating what we create during an afternoon cooking class or pizza-making experience, you’ll be inspired by Italy’s love for food and its genuine appreciation for gathering together to share the experience of a meal. Our final dinner, which is included in your trip package, promises to be both delicious and memorable as we honor — and celebrate — our uniquely Italian time together.
Please note: If you have any dietary restrictions/needs, we are more than happy to work with Patrizia and Chef Francesco to accommodate you, so please let us know.
The Delights...
During this Tuscan journey, our varied activities will allow you to express your creativity, connect with your joy, feed your soul, and to put it simply — have fun!
Some mornings will begin with guided meditations so you can start your day with a calm mind and an open heart.
Our group workshops will allow you to share your thoughts, feelings and ideas in a safe, non-judgmental space with like-minded women. Our group exercises will help you dive deep within yourself so you can leave your burdens behind, love yourself and live a more peaceful and meaningful life.
Imagine diving even deeper into your goals and desires with one-on-one coaching sessions. As your personal coach, I believe YOU have the power to manifest what you want in your life. I believe YOU have the answers within yourself to live a purposeful life. I also know YOU have the power to change your trajectory. Together, we will unlock what’s holding you back so you can transform your life on your own terms.
Looking for a way to express your creativity? You’ll love taking part in our pottery class where you’ll shape clay and create a unique work of art with the guidance of a local artisan. The course will be held in the Borgo del Castello di Fighine where the art of pottery — Figuline — was established in ancient times. Our instructor and host, Maria Grazia Bacci, will treat us to an insider’s tour of the village where her family has lived since the late 1800s. After the tour, you’ll hear about the history of Majolica pottery in Tuscany and Umbria and then you’ll learn how to replicate the ancient technique of Majolica painting. You’ll walk away with your very own handmade, personalized piece of art to commemorate the experience.
Also part of our itinerary is a cooking class at the villa where we will learn how to make two types of handmade pasta, a second course, and tiramisu for dessert. Let’s not forget our pizza party where we’ll make homemade Italian pizza from scratch — and then eat it (along with dessert and lemony limoncello)!
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While our itinerary includes planned activities, you’ll have plenty of free time to relax throughout the week. You’ll have no trouble finding a quiet spot to reflect and focus within the manicured gardens and green spaces surrounding the villa. If you’re looking for deeper relaxation and tranquility during your free time, you can sign up for a private massage or spa treatment. Speaking of relaxing, our villa is only five minutes from the Fonteverde Thermal Spa where you can enjoy an oasis of well-being and tranquility. Sign up for spa treatments like a hydro massage or a total body purifying massage with lavender; or simply enjoy the thermal therapeutic pool. Not interested in the thermal spa? No worries. Instead, take advantage of your private time to explore San Casciano dei Bagni with its café-lined piazza, historical monuments, and places of worship.
When in Italy, we can’t mention food without talking about wine! Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Tuscan wines during our private tasting at the villa where we’ll explore the secrets of several delicious selections. Expand your wine knowledge — and your tastebuds! — even further on our day trip to the Casa Tornesi winery in Montalcino, known for the world-famous Brunello wine. On our way to the winery, where we’ll have lunch and a tour, we’ll drive through the beautiful Val D’Orcia area before stopping in Pienza with its scenic views, quaint shops and friendly locals. Following our lunch and winery tour, we’ll take a stroll through the center of Montalcino, visit a craft shop, stop for homemade gelato and then head home to our villa.
Before we say good-night each evening, we will gather for a sharing circle. These sharing circles will provide a safe, judgment-free space to connect and share your insights and learnings. Rest assured, this is a community where you are seen, heard and valued just for being you.
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This trip is for you if:
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You’re ready to let go of negative inner chatter, false narratives, and limiting beliefs that hold you back.​
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You’re ready to start living life on your terms.​
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You want to wake up feeling alive, refreshed and positive.
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You’re ready to start seeing results of your hard work and effort.
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You want to feel confident and secure in your decision making.
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You’re ready to honor your desires and follow your dreams.
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You’re ready to transform your life into one of peace, growth and deeply fulfilling relationships.
On this retreat, through group discussions and one-on-one, personalized coaching sessions, you’ll focus on what truly sets your heart on fire so you can begin taking steps to making your dreams a reality. You’ll quiet the negative inner chatter, reset daily, and feel alive, so you can embrace a new you and tackle the world. During our journey, through morning meditations, group discussions, daily activities and reflections, you'll become best friends with the endless possibilities that the world has to offer, so you can become the leader of your life.
This trip is NOT for you if:
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You aren’t ready to transform your life from one of negativity, limiting beliefs, stress and anxiety.​
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You want to keep making decisions based on fear and self-doubt.​
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You aren’t willing to disconnect to spend time with and on yourself.
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You’d rather make excuses about why you can’t change.
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Spending a week in Tuscany doesn’t sound like a good idea to you.
Bonuses
Because Why Not!
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Clarity Call: One-on-one, 20-minute clarity call so I can get to know you a little better personally and understand how to best support you on your journey.
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Access to Private Retreat What's App Group: Connect with me and retreat participants both pre-trip and post-trip; ask questions; stay connected with trip updates.
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Pre-Trip Group Call: Meet the like-minded women on the retreat and ask any questions you may have before we go (note: I am always available via email at sam@lovingthejourney.co).
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Post-Trip Group Call: Regroup with your new best friends when you get home to integrate your retreat learnings and share what it’s been like to get back to your new reality. ​
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Post-Trip 1x1 Coaching Call: Dive even deeper into how you can adjust to life beyond Italy and stay on track with your goals and dreams.
La Dolce Vita!!! Count me in!!
What's Included:
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7 Magical Days and 6 Glorious Nights Accommodations At Villa Vetrichina, San Casciano dei Bagni, Italy
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Daily Breakfasts
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Welcome & Farewell Dinners; Dinners Served At Villa Vetrichina
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Guided Meditations
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Group Workshops
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One on One Coaching Session
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Daily Group Sharing Circle
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Pottery Class
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Cooking Class
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​Pizza Making Class
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Wine Tasting at Vineyard and Town Tours
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​Wine Tasting at the Villa
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Entrance Fees to Any Sites We Visit Together
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All Tips and Taxes For Any Activities Done as a Group That Are Listed
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Transportation For Group Excursions That Are Planned For The Retreat
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Roundtrip Ground Transportation From The Airport To The Villa at Designated Times.
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Please note: I will coordinate ground transportation from the Rome Fiumicino Airport to Villa Vetrichina for participants who arrive on Sunday, September 28th, 2025 by 12:00 PM. If you cannot coordinate your flight to arrive by this time frame, please let me know and I will provide information about how you can reserve your own ground transportation.​
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Please note: I will coordinate ground transportation from Villa Vetrichina to Rome Fiumicino Airport on Saturday, October 4th, 2025 by 10:30 AM. Please give yourself ample time to arrive at the airport and to get through check in and security.
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What's NOT Included:
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Your Roundtrip Airfare From Your Home To Italy
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Any Applicable Visas and Fees
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Personal, Medical or Travel / Trip Cancellation Insurance (Highly Recommended)
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Other Non-Included Items Include But Not Limited To:
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Souvenir Shopping
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Personal Phone Calls
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Personal Massages and Spa Packages
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Transportation for Private Trip Excursions (Taxis/Uber Drivers)
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Meals, Beverages and Other Purchases During Your Free Time
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Your Host!
About Samanda:
I am a life coach and the founder of Loving The Journey! I'm also an attorney and owner of a chocolate business, Sam’s Delights, but my purpose in life is to help people become their best version. I believe that every individual has the power within themselves to manifest what they want in their life. I believe you have the power to change your trajectory.
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My personal life experiences and training - combined with my positivity, empathy and ability to truly listen with respect, curiosity, and nonjudgment - will help you get where you want to go.
After embarking on my own personal journey in re-evaluating my life, I knew I needed to make some tough changes to start living for myself. I dug deep to rediscover the power within myself to go back to school, change career paths and transform my life – all while loving the journey, even during the hard parts.
I'm now committed and very passionate in helping others go from just surviving to thriving in their lives.
What The Retreat Participants Say ...
This retreat came at a point in my life where I needed it the most. A lot of the things I was struggling with during that time were unexpectedly addressed during the week. The lessons, the activities, listening to others and their experiences was so powerful and transformative. I am forever grateful for this experience, and I cherish everything I learned in every aspect of my life that it applies to.
Marly R.
My experience was amazing and peaceful. I enjoyed getting to meet everyone and getting to know everyone. Being able to share in a safe space and the energy the group was able to bring was unbeatable.
Anjolienah D.
I am so appreciative of Sam's care and facilitating skills in guiding the group through the workshops and activities on this magical retreat experience. I was able to reclaim the fullness of who I am and to share who I am with the wonderful women there. I came to the Greece Retreat after some personal upheaval and really needing the experience I received; one in which I was held with care, love, and support throughout the retreat journey.
Vicky B.
As someone who has now attended two retreats with Sam, I’m in awe with how much the retreat gets better and better. The retreat was really engaging, fun, and transformative. We shared a lot of laughs, hugs, and cries too that made the retreat healing. I’m so grateful for everyone there, for Sam and the things I’ve learned that I plan to apply to my life. Thank you for having me!
Marly R.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the investment in this retreat truly justified?
Yes, the investment in this retreat is fully justified. It offers a unique blend of personal growth, self-discovery, and cultural experiences in Tuscany. With expertly designed workshops, enriching activities like wine tastings and cooking classes, and opportunities to connect with like-minded women, the value extends far beyond the retreat itself, leaving lasting benefits that make the cost worthwhile.
Q: What if I need a roommate?
You are more than welcome to bring a friend who is interested in joining this retreat and you two can room together. However, if you need a roommate, we’d be happy to match you with another retreat participant who is also interested in sharing a room. Please note your request for a roommate in the registration form.
Q: Can I bring my kids and/or partner?
This retreat is for adult women seeking to transform their life into one of peace, growth and deeply fulfilling relationships. To ensure you — and all participants — enjoy the best possible retreat experience, please leave your kids and partners who are not participating in the retreat at home.
Q: Where do I fly into?
Please fly into the Rome Fiumicino Airport on or before September 28, 2025. If possible, please try to arrive by 12:00PM so you can take advantage of the pre-arranged ground transportation (details to be provided). If you arrive outside of this time frame, please contact Samanda for information about ground transportation options.
Q: Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, the villa’s hostess and our private chef can accommodate dietary restrictions. Please use the registration form to indicate any dietary restrictions.
Q: Will I have free time to explore?
Yes, you will have time to relax or explore between our scheduled activities. While we recommend you use some of your free time to rest and reflect, you are more than welcome to explore the area, sign up for a massage or spa treatment at our villa, or visit the nearby thermal spa. Please note: Transportation will be provided for retreat activities only; we can help arrange transportation, if needed, but you are responsible for the cost.
Q: Should I purchase travel insurance?
We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance in the event you have a sudden change in plans or an unexpected emergency. Please make sure you review and agree to our cancellation policy.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
Any cancellation will result in a total loss of the $500 USD registration deposit. Any cancellation made between: May 28, 2025 and June 27, 2025 will result in a loss of 50% of the trip price. Any cancellation made between: June 28, 2025 and the trip departure will result in a total loss of funds.
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