Southern Italy, hosted. Slow mornings. Long dinners. Real connection.
This is the Italy trip for women who want the movie version of travel, without the stress, confusion, or doing everything alone.
If your soul has been quietly whispering “I need a break”: not a weekend, not a bubble bath, a real break, this is your sign in 72pt font.
This isn’t a tour. It’s not a hustle itinerary. It’s not “everyone for themselves, good luck babe.”
It’s a hosted guided Southern Italy experience designed to help you exhale, laugh, reset, and remember the version of you that exists outside deadlines and responsibility..
DaTES: Friday September 11– Friday, September 18, 2026
8 Days / 7 Nights • Small group • Hosted start to finish
This is what dreams are made of… but with a plan.
Italy is calling. Not like “hi babe.”
Like… “pack your cute little outfits, sunnies and meet me by the sea.” 🇮🇹✨
Bestie… you know when you’re like: “I just want one week where I’m not the planner, the fixer, the strong one, OR the Google Maps girl.” Yeah. Same.
This trip is for the woman who wants:
a built-in bestie squad (no awkward icebreakers, promise)
long dinners that turn into laughing fits
salty hair, glossy lips, and that I’m alive again feeling
a boat day that resets your entire personality
dinners so good you start speaking in Italian accents for no reason 🤌
and one week where the only thing you’re responsible for is showing up
Passenger princess energy only. Laughing, eating, floating, and making friends like it’s 2012 and nobody is emotionally unavailable.
…and the best part? the magic without the mental load.
This is for you if…
You want Italy hosted (translation: you can relax instead of problem-solving)
You want connection that feels natural, not forced
You want a trip that’s curated but still has breathing room
You’re budget-conscious and you want it to feel special
You want the real Italia, the road less traveled, where life is still local, history feels untouched, and time moves like it hasn’t been rushed by tourism. Not the Rome/Tuscany loop… Southern Italy is the hidden gem Italy’s been keeping to itself.
This might not be for you if…
You only enjoy travel if every hotel is ultra-luxury and perfectly polished
You want “go-go-go” schedules from sunrise to midnight
You’d be disappointed by Calabria being more charming + local than “five-star everywhere”
Calabria isn’t trying to impress you. She’s trying to heal you.
The luxury is the access, the coastline, the long-table dinners, the people, and the way you feel in your body by Day 3.
The souvenir isn’t a magnet. It’s your laugh.
Not the polite little chuckle you do at work. The real one.
The one where you’re snorting at the table and someone’s mascara is running and nobody cares.
Because a week like this does something sneaky:
It reminds you you’re not just a responsible adult with a calendar full of obligations…
You’re a whole person. With sparkle. With stories. With appetite. With life in you.
What you’re really getting:
a week of being taken care of (not in a helpless way, in a “finally” way)
a little crew that clicks — the kind you don’t have to force
moments you’ll replay on hard days like “oh right… my life is allowed to be good”
and the kind of energy that follows you home… like a song you can’t stop humming
Somewhere between the sea swims and the long dinners, you start to notice:
you’re not rushing
you’re not performing
you’re not “on”
you’re just… there
…and it feels ridiculous how long it’s been since that felt normal.
It’s the trip that turns into lore.
The one your group chat references for the next year like it’s a cinematic universe.
The Itinerary (aka: Plot Twist… We’re in Italy)
This week is built like a rom-com montage: iconic moments, real rest, and just enough structure that you don’t have to think, you just show up and let italia work her magic on youuuuuuu…
Day 1 — Naples: Let your hair DOWN
We land. We meet. We squeal. We take the first “we’re actually in Italy together” group photo. Then we do what we do best: a welcome night that feels like instant besties: a welcome feast, toasts, intentions for the week and that “is this what dreams are made of??” energy. Welcome dinner is included.
Day 2 — Italy starts doing her thing
We sleep in on purpose (time change kindness), let our bodies catch up, and then Italy begins to unfold. Think: our first exploring adventure along the coast, a taste of the Amalfi magic, and then… we start making our descent south into the real Italy, the Italy that isn’t a tourist conveyor belt. You’ll feel the shift.
Day 3 — Beach, sunset apertivos + local adventures
Now we’re in it. Sun on your shoulders, salty hair, coastal joy, and that moment where you realize you’ve stopped checking your phone. Expect beach time, water time, and a day that feels like pure freedom.
Day 4 — Calabria like a local
A full sensory day. The land, the people, the flavors, the stories. This is where you understand why we built the retreat around Southern Italy, it’s not just beautiful, it’s alive. (And yes, it’s delicious.) Think vino tasting, olive grove frolicking, cheese making, pasta making or even choose your own adventure and hike to some waterfalls.
Day 5 — Tropea (postcard perfection)
We head to Tropea, cliffs, turquoise water, walking streets, SHOPPINGGGGG, the kind of coastal beauty that feels fake. It’s the “take 12 photos, no wait, 30” day.
Day 6 — Tropea: More dolce vita
Another day in Tropea because one is not enough. Beach, wandering, shopping, slow meals, golden hour, the kind of day that makes you want to bottle time.
Day 7 — Back to Santa Domenica: Closing ceremonies
We return to Santa Domenica Talao for our closing night. Closing dinner. A little ceremony. A lot of “how did we become sisters in ONE WEEK?” energy. Closing dinner is included.
Departure / Transfer Day — Back toward Naples
We’ll guide the group transfer back toward Naples for departures, so travel day feels clear and supported.
Our rhythm: we plan the anchors, Italy provides the magic.
You’ll have structure and breathing room, so it feels like a vacation, not a checklist.
ROOMS + PRICING OPTIONS
This is capped at 12. The first 6 spots booked | 6 spots remaining
Accommodations + Rooming (What to Expect)
We get it, accommodations are one of the biggest “wait tell me everything” parts of booking a retreat. Here’s what we can promise with full confidence:
Where we stay (examples, not promises)
Because routing + accommodations depend on final group numbers and room configurations, we don’t lock every exact property name publicly ahead of time. But if you want a feel for the vibe, here’s where we stayed last year:
Tre Fontane (Naples-area welcome night)
House 80729
Alto Borgo
SDT B&B
Some accommodations may be the same this year, and some we may mix up as we refine the flow, improve walkability, and adjust to headcount. Our standard stays consistent: clean, comfortable, charming, wifi, intentionally chosen for the itinerary AND ALWAYS AC (can we get an ahhhhhmen)
We typically don’t disclose the welcome-night hotel publicly until itineraries are released because we want everyone arriving into the experience together (and we learned the hard way that early check-ins can spoil the surprise and split the energy).
You’ll receive your exact arrival + hotel details inside your prep packet after booking, once registration closes or earlier if the trip fills up before then.
BUNK ROOM (3–4 women)
“Summer Camp, But Make It Italy”
This is the laugh-until-you-snort, braid-each-other’s-hair, “wait… did we all just become besties?” option. You’ll typically be in a room with 3–4 women in three or four twin beds (sometimes bunks, depending on the stay). If you want the most budget-friendly way to get to Italy and you love the idea of built-in girlhood energy… this is your slumber party room.
Perfect for: social butterflies, spontaneous besties, “I’m here for the plot” gals, and anyone who wants instant community without trying.
Early Bird: $2,599 *(ends March 30th)
Regular Pricing: $2,899
SHARED ROOM (2 women)
“Cozy Bestie Energy”
This is the sweet spot. You’ll share a room with one roommate (two individual beds — sometimes pushed together if the space calls for it, but still your own bed). Think: getting ready together, late-night “soooo tell me everything” chats, and that quietly magical feeling of having someone right there who becomes your person by day three.
Perfect for: gals who want connection + comfort, introverts who still want a bestie anchor, and anyone who likes a little more space to breathe.
Early Bird: $2,999 *(ends March 30th)
Regular Pricing: $3,399
PRIVATE ROOM
“Passenger Princess Peace”
This is for the woman who loves the group but needs her own landing pad. Your own room, your own bathroom space (where possible), your own quiet, a true private princess suite moment.
And yes, this is also the move if you know you sleep best alone, need extra downtime, or just want your own space to recharge so you can fully show up for the fun.
Perfect for: high-performing women who need quiet to reset, introverts who want alone time without missing the community, and anyone who wants the most “luxury” experience.
Early Bird: $3,799 *(ends March 30th)
Regular Pricing: $4199
Capped at 12 women • 6 spots left (eeeek)
Rooming is part of the magic, and also totally normal to feel nervous about. We use the onboarding form to collect preferences and match roommates thoughtfully (sleep schedule, social energy, etc.), and we always build in space for alone time even if you’re sharing a room.
FAQ (Your “but what about…” section)
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Because Calabria is the part of Italy that changed me.
Not in a “cute vacation” way.
In a my nervous system finally exhaled way.
In a I remembered who I am when I’m not rushing way.
In a my heart got rearranged kind of way.This is the Italy that still feels like Italy… not a highlight reel, not a tourist conveyor belt, not crowds and checklists and overpriced anything. Calabria is slower. Warmer. Wilder. It’s the kind of place where people look you in the eyes. Where meals take hours because nobody is trying to “optimize” dinner. Where the sea is unreal and the towns are ancient and the pace is… human again.
And I’ll be honest: Southern Italy gets overlooked. It’s not the obvious choice, which is exactly why we’re here.
Because we’re not doing fast travel. We’re doing slow travel. The kind that doesn’t just consume a place… it honors it. The kind that leaves something beautiful behind.
These villages have shaped history. They carry stories in their stone streets and their piazzas and their family-run businesses that have been doing things the same way for generations, not because they’re behind, but because they’re rooted. And we want those places to be preserved, protected, and still alive a hundred years from now.
That’s why this retreat is built around meaningful tourism, the kind that supports the people who actually live here. We invest in family-run restaurants. We partner with artisans. We book local guides. We return to the same communities year after year, not as tourists collecting moments, but as guests becoming known.
Because when towns like these are supported, it creates real economic oxygen:
more jobs, more opportunity, more reason for young people to stay, not because they have to, but because they actually can. Not everyone wants to leave for a bigger city. Not everyone wants the noise. Some people want to stay where their grandmother lives. Where the family business is. Where the rhythms still make sense. And we love being part of the kind of travel that helps make that possible.This place has given me so much. The people here became family to me.
And this retreat is one of the ways I get to pour back into the land that poured into me.
I call Calabria the 8th wonder of the world, and if you’re not careful, you’ll miss it… because it doesn’t scream for your attention the way the tourist cities do.
It whispers.
And it rewards the kind of woman who’s willing to slow down enough to hear it.This is the heartbeat of Italy.
Italy as it’s meant to be experienced.And once you taste it… you’ll understand why we built the entire week around this.
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No in anyyyy way shape or form and honestly, coming solo is kind of the power move. Most gals do.
You won’t be walking into a pre-formed clique or forced into “tell us a fun fact” energy.
We design the flow so connection happens naturally: shared meals, shared moments, and the kind of easy laughter that makes you forget you ever worried about it.
Come as you are, quiet, outgoing, in-between: you’ll be welcomed like you belong (because you do).
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Yes. This is literally made for the “I want Italy but I don’t want to figure it out alone” girlies.
You’ll get flight guidance + clear arrival instructions after booking, so you’re not panic-searching in the airport or trying to decode train platforms with a suitcase and a prayer.
You just get yourself to Naples, and we take it from there. It’s Italy but with a safety net and a group chat.
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Welcome. You’re normal. You don’t have to be the loudest person on Day 1 to have a magical trip.
You can warm up slowly, choose your pace, and take solo time without feeling weird.
There’s no pressure to perform or be “on.” This trip is designed to feel safe, light, and spacious like you can breathe again and still have a blast.
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Naples (NAP) is the easiest + most practical airport for this retreat especially if you’re a first-time international traveler and you want the smoothest “land and exhale” experience. It’s the closest major airport to our starting point, which means less chaos, fewer transfers, and way less “wait… where do I go?” energy.
That said, you’ve got options if you want to turn this into a bigger Italy moment: Rome (FCO) often has amazing flight deals and it’s only about a 2-hour fast train to Naples, perfect if you want a little pre-trip or post-trip adventure.
And if you’re planning extra travel in Southern Italy, Lamezia Terme (SUF) can also be a great airport option depending on your route. Once you’re booked, we’ll send a clear flight guide with recommended arrival windows and our best tips so booking feels confident and easy.
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Plan to arrive in Naples in time to be settled by 3:00 PM on arrival day if you want the easiest start.
That gives you time to check in, refresh, and join the group without feeling rushed.
If your flight lands earlier, amazing, you can explore, rest, or grab a coffee while we get into host mode.
What if my flight arrives after 3 PM on start day?
If you arrive after 3 PM, you can still come but you may miss some of the early settling time. We’ll give you clear instructions so you can still join smoothly, but the goal is to avoid a “late arrival scramble” energy when you should be exhaling.
If you know you’re landing late, let us know early so we can support your plan.
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If you can come a day early, it’s the ultimate pro move especially if you want to adjust to the time change, sleep well, and start the trip feeling grounded.
Early arrival is also perfect if you want a little solo Naples moment (pizza, promenade, “I’m in Italy??” spiral).
We’ll share recommended neighborhoods + a few trusted hotel options for the night before so you can choose what fits your budget and vibe.
Important note (and we mean this lovingly): we don’t share the welcome hotel name/address until closer to departure because we want everyone to arrive and check in together and because the first stay is part of the experience.
So if you arrive early, plan to stay somewhere else the night before and then meet us for official check-in on arrival day. We’ll make it super clear and easy in the travel guide once you’re booked.
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Super easy: Rome to Naples is a straightforward high-speed train route (and it’s honestly a great way to see Italy).
We’ll share exactly which stations, what to search, and timing suggestions in the flight guide after booking so you can book confidently without second-guessing.
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We will have one official drop-off point on departure day: the Scalea train station, which can connect you to where you need to go next.
We’ll share the exact group timing once all details are confirmed. If you want a stress-free departure, plan your travel around the group drop-off window.
Do not book a flight earlier than 5:00 PM on departure day if you’re relying on the group drop-off plan.
If you book earlier than that, totally a-ok, you’ll just be responsible for arranging your own transportation (like a taxi) to the station/airport.
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Italy does food differently, it’s slower, it’s later, and it’s meant to be enjoyed. And because we’re Gals That Brunch, please know this: we don’t do random meals or sad tourist traps. Every meal location is chosen on purpose with much intention for you to experience a wide variety of… farm-to-table spots, family-run favorites, and those tucked-away places you’d never find on Google… because we’ve built real relationships here over the years. Think: dear friends’ homes, artisan producers, local kitchens, and tables where the food doesn’t just taste good, it feels like a love language.
This year, there will be more meals that will be pay-your-own, but it will still feel hosted and seamless: we’ll select the places, make the reservations, organize the group dinners, and guide the flow so you’re not left figuring it out alone. This keeps things flexible for budgets and appetites and it keeps the group dynamic peaceful (without dinner turning into a spreadsheet of 17 different preferences).
Meal breakdown (for our foodies 🫶)
Here’s the clear breakdown:
Included meals:
3 dinners included (including our Welcome + Closing dinners)
1 lunch included
Most breakfasts included (where our hotels provide it)
Pay-your-own meals:
The remaining dinners + most lunches will be on your own
But “on your own” doesn’t mean on your own. We will still plan it as a group, reservations made, options shared, meet-up times communicated, so you can join the crew easily… or choose a solo meal when you want quiet time. You’ll have structure and freedom.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes: we can accommodate dietary restrictions as long as you communicate them in advance. After booking, you’ll receive our onboarding form, and the dietary section is not a “quick skim” moment, it’s where we collect the details that genuinely impact the entire trip experience (meals, reservations, included dinners, vendors, and planning).
So please take your time with it, be specific, and fill it out completely. If something matters for your health, comfort, or safety, we need it in writing there. When you communicate clearly and early, we can take beautiful care of you.
Italian breakfast reality check (so you’re not surprised)
Italian breakfast is often sweet — cappuccino + cornetto, pastries, cookies but about half of our stays have a wider variety (fruit, yogurt, eggs, etc.). Either way, breakfast in Italy isn’t always the high-protein American-style spread. If you know you feel best with savory/protein-forward mornings (medical needs, blood sugar, etc.), plan to bring protein bars and/or grab staples at the grocery store.
We’ll do multiple grocery stops and help you find what you need and the goal is for you to feel cared for and empowered to support your body well. We just won’t be customizing breakfast menus as a group.
What about drinks (wine, cocktails, etc.)?
We’ll have wine and sparkling water included at all of our provided meals, and there will always be non-alcoholic options available (mocktail energy is welcome here). Specialty drinks, cocktails, sweet mixed drinks, and personal beverage preferences are on your own, not because we’re stingy, but because it keeps things simple, fair, and peaceful for the whole group.
No one is judged for what they drink or don’t drink. We’re not here to micromanage cups, we’re here to make sure the week feels fun, easy, and beautifully hosted.
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Because this is a boutique, hosted experience, we begin booking hotels, transportation, and vendors long before we ever arrive in Italy.
Once you reserve your spot, we’re financially committed on your behalf, which is why all payments are non-refundable (including your deposit and any installments).
If something comes up and you can no longer attend, you may request to transfer your spot to another person until June 1, 2026. Transfers must be communicated in writing by that date, and the replacement participant must complete onboarding requirements.
Important: All transfers are subject to host approval. This retreat is intentionally intimate, and the group dynamic matters. We reserve the right to approve (or decline) a replacement participant to protect the experience, safety, and chemistry of the trip for everyone attending. If a proposed replacement is not approved, the original participant remains responsible for their reservation.
After June 1, 2026, transfers are no longer allowed, at that point, vendor commitments, rooming, and logistics are locked and we cannot absorb last-minute changes.
Please also note: If there is a remaining balance on your booking at the time of cancellation or transfer request, you are still responsible for paying the full balance. Your financial commitment does not change if your attendance changes.
We say all of this with love and a high standard: we are committed to planning this experience with excellence. And just as you can expect excellence from us, we need timely communication, follow-through, and responsibility from every participant so we can serve the entire group well.
(Strongly recommended: purchase travel insurance to protect your investment if life happens.)
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Is this accessible for all fitness levels?
Think “choose your own adventure.” There’s walking through towns, beach days, optional hikes, and small mountain villages but you can absolutely opt for a lighter version of the day when needed. We also have transportation included for key movements, so you’re not trekking nonstop.
Can I opt out of an activity?
Absolutely YES! We just ask if an activity is prepaid, you need to tell us ahead of time so we are able to communicate with our hosts..
You’ll always have autonomy, we just need communication so we can plan responsibly.
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After booking, we’ll send a packing guide with what actually matters: shoes that work on cobblestones, what to wear for dinners, beach day essentials, and a few “don’t bring this, you won’t use it” notes. You’ll also get weather guidance closer to departure.
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What are my payment options?
We made this simple on purpose: because we want your “YES” to feel exciting, not stressful.
1) Pay in Full (fastest + easiest)
Choose your room option and check out.
Bonus: pay-in-full babes get a little thank-you discount (because we love decisive women 🤍).2) Klarna Payment Plans (easy-peasy monthly)
At checkout, you can select Klarna and choose a plan that works for you (often 6, 12, or 18 months, depending on what Klarna offers you). Klarna handles the schedule, you just pick what feels doable and go live your best life.
3) Deposit + Flexible Pay (PayPal invoice)
Want to lock your spot now and pay over time in your own rhythm? Choose the $500 non-refundable deposit option, and we’ll send you a PayPal invoice for the remaining balance.
This option includes an 8% admin fee (covers processing + invoicing + payment tracking).
You can pay the invoice down in flexible chunks whenever you want.
Your balance must be paid in full by August 7, 2026.
Need a different setup?
If you’re like, “I want this, but I need a custom cadence,” reach out. We’re happy to help you map a plan, as long as it’s paid in full by August 7, 2026.
Bottom line: we have options. You’re not doing financial gymnastics alone. You’re getting your tush to Italy.
Why these prices? (The real deal 💫)
Because this isn’t just “here’s a hotel, good luck.” You’re paying for a fully hosted experience where the hard parts are handled for you: planning, coordination, transportation, vendor deposits, curated reservations, and all the behind-the-scenes work that makes the week feel effortless once you arrive.
And to be super clear: the magic stuff is included. All activities + experiences on the itinerary are covered. You’ll have a couple free afternoons built in for beach naps, solo wandering, journaling, or doing absolutely nothing (highly encouraged). But you are not paying for a trip where you have to constantly decide, book, negotiate, and organize. You’re paying for a week that’s smooth, safe, and beautifully cared for.
Also? We quietly layer in surprise + delight moments we don’t even list, because our number one goal is simple: you feel so loved and unbelievably taken care of the entire time. Not rushed. Not managed. Not herded. Held.
What’s included in the price?
Your accommodations, hosted coordination, group transportation during the itinerary, and all of the activities/experiences listed are included plus about half of your meals.
Included typically looks like:
Welcome dinner + Closing dinner (included)
Most breakfasts (where hotels provide them)
1 additional lunch included
All activities + experiences on the itinerary (yes, covered)
Plus extra little surprise + delight touches along the way (the “wait… you thought of everything??” moments)
Translation: you’re paying for the trip to feel organized, cared-for, and smooth not DIY.
What’s not included?
Flights, travel insurance, personal extras (shopping, cocktails, specialty drinks, souvenirs), and the remaining meals not listed as included (roughly the other half).
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Let’s just say it out loud: the rooming part can feel like the most intimidating piece of the whole retreat. Not because you’re dramatic but because hiii bestie it feels really vulnerable.
You’re basically saying, “Hi yes I’d like to go to Italy AND also potentially share a room with a stranger while I drool or talk in my sleep.” Totally fair. 😂
Here’s what I want you to know: you’re not the only one who’s nervous. And you’re also not the first woman who’s life has completely changed by how beautiful this ends up being.
We take roommate matching seriously , not casually, not randomly, not “good luck besties.” After you book, you’ll fill out our onboarding form with intentional questions (sleep habits, social battery, preferences, vibe, little quirks that matter), and we use those answers to pair people based on real compatibility and similarities. We’re not matching you for content. We’re matching you for peace.
And the wild part? Some of the deepest friendships that have ever come out of these retreats started as roommates. Like… “we were paired up and now we’re flying across the country to visit each other” type of friendships. It happens every year.
Not because we force it but because when you slow down, live close, laugh a lot, and share space in a safe container… something real forms.
Now, the second very real question:
“What if I don’t click with anyone?” / “What if I need alone time?”
Two things can be true:
You can come solo and still feel fully included.
You can also still need space and quiet and alone time and that is not a problem here.
This retreat is designed with breathing room on purpose. There are pockets of free time, you can opt out of activities, you can take a solo gelato walk, you can disappear for an afternoon nap and nobody is going to make it weird. We’re not doing forced bonding. We’re doing freedom + friendship, side by side.
And if you’re someone who knows you recharge best alone or you’re in a tender season, or you’re a light sleeper, or you just want your own little sanctuary to come back to at night…
👑 Private Room Option (aka: your “I love you but I also love silence” upgrade)
A private room is a gorgeous choice. It gives you:
your own space to decompress
full control over sleep, lights, sound, and alone time
a little cocoon to journal, cry, FaceTime, stare at the ceiling in bliss, whatever you need
the best of both worlds: community all day, quiet at night
And truly? There is no “right” way to do this retreat. Some women love the shared-room slumber party energy.
Some women thrive with a private room.
Both are valid. Both are beautiful.
What I can promise you is this: if you trust the process and trust that the right people have a way of finding you when you’re brave enough to show up , this part tends to become one of the most precious genuine life-giving surprises of the whole trip.
Because Italy has a funny way of doing that.
She brings you who you’re meant to meet.
And somehow, it always works out more beautifully than you could’ve planned. -
YESSSS and honestly, I love this for you.
If you’re coming with a bestie (or rolling deep as a trio), you can absolutely request to room together.
We’re all about the “Italy with my people” energy.
Here’s the only thing we need from you so it stays smooth and stress-free:
You all need to select the same room type at checkout.
Meaning: if you want to room together, you can’t have one person choose Bunk Besties and the other choose Shared Room (those are different configurations + pricing + availability).Same goes for Private vs Shared, big difference.
So before you hit purchase, do a quick little group text like:
“Okay besties, are we doing bunk room chaos or shared room peace?” 😂Then, after you book, you’ll receive our onboarding form where you can:
list the names of who you want to room with
confirm your rooming preferences
share any helpful details (sleep habits, vibe, etc.)
We’ll do our best to honor friend requests when the room types match and there’s availability and we’ll guide you if anything needs adjusting.
Bottom line: Yes, you can room together. Just make sure you’re all choosing the same option, and then tell us in the onboarding form. Easy. Fun. Very “we’re doing this” energy.
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Not required but it is recommended if you have access to a chapter near you.
If you live in a city with an active GTB chapter, we recommend coming to at least one event beforehand so you can experience the vibe and community style (and feel extra confident that you’ll love a week-long version of it).
That said: we’ve also had women come on retreat who were brand new to GTB and had never been to a brunch. And they still had an incredible experience because the retreat is hosted, supported, and intentionally designed to help you feel included quickly and naturally.
If you’re brand new, here’s the best next step:
If you have a GTB chapter nearby: come to one event if you can (even a casual coffee club or WFH hang counts).
If you don’t have a GTB chapter in your city: we strongly recommend you book a Discovery Call before registering, so we can make sure it’s a great fit for you (and you feel totally clear and excited, not unsure).
The Discovery Call isn’t a “prove yourself” thing, it’s just a way to make sure you’re stepping into the right container. We care about the group dynamic, the energy of the week, and making sure every woman feels safe, seen, and genuinely supported.
Bottom line: You don’t need to be a GTB veteran. You just need to be the kind of woman who’s ready for connection, adventure, and a week that feels like a deep exhale. And if you’re not sure yet? That’s what the call is for.
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YES, and hear our heart loud and clear: not just “allowed”… this is literally what this retreat is designed for.
Gals That Brunch isn’t just a local group.
It’s a GLOBAL SISTERHOOD and this retreat is one of the rare, special moments where that becomes real in the most magical way: women from different cities, states, and countries gathering in one place to live, laugh, eat, and connect like family.
This week is built to be a crossroads, a long table where women from all over the world get to meet each other, learn from each other, swap stories, pick up on each other’s cultures, and remember: I’m part of something bigger than my zip code.
It’s the kind of experience where you don’t just leave with a tan and a camera roll, you leave with sisters in other chapters you’re now planning to visit. You leave with inside jokes that make no sense to anyone back home.
You leave feeling deeply connected to GTB as a movement, not just a meetup.
So yes, please come from your chapter.
Bring your accent, your slang, your story, your city pride. We want the mix. We want the global energy. We want the “wait… I met one of my best friends in Italy” kind of outcome.
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Women with real lives… and a real YESSSSS.
Women who are single, dating, married, freshly “figuring it out”, happily partnered, “it’s complicated,” or not thinking about any of that right now because she’s here for the pasta and the plot. (us too) 😂
Women who are moms, not moms, dog moms, bonus moms, auntie energy, “I have a plant and we’re both trying our best.”
Women who are introverts, extroverts, ambiverts, “I’m social but I need a nap after,” “I’m quiet until I’m not.”
Women in all kinds of life stages from just graduated to building careers, switching careers, starting over, settling in, moving cities, finding themselves again, craving more friendship, craving more adventure, craving more LIFE.
And here’s the thing: when women ask “Who comes?” what they’re really asking is…
Am I going to be the only one like me?
Am I going to be the only mom? The only single woman? The only one who’s shy? The only one who doesn’t drink? The only one who doesn’t know anyone? The only one who feels a little nervous about being the odd one out?And the answer is: no. You won’t be.
Because this retreat doesn’t attract one type of woman, it attracts women who share one thing in common:
They’re the kind of women who want to do the thing.
They love travel (or they want to love travel).
They’re curious.
They’re community-minded.
They’re open to new experiences and new friendships.
They’re tired of waiting for the “perfect friend group” to finally commit.
They don’t want another trip that feels like modern tourism + consumerism + rushing to check boxes.They want Italy the way it’s meant to be experienced, the way she called to them with slow mornings, long dinners, real places, real people, towns and villages with history in the stone, the kind of culture you don’t get from a highlight reel.
And honestly? A lot of women come because they’ve spent years being the one who holds it down.
The planner.
The caretaker.
The responsible one.
The one who shows up for everyone else.And something in them is finally saying, “Okay… I’m allowed to do something for me.”
This is for the woman who keeps pushing it to “next year.”
The one who always finds a reason to wait.
The one who keeps prioritizing everyone else’s needs first.This week is built to pour back into you , not in a heavy way, but in a life-giving way.
The kind of poured-into that looks like laughing so hard at dinner you forget to check your phone. The kind that makes you feel more like yourself again.
And here’s the surprise part:
You might THINK you already know the kind of women you’ll connect with.
Like you’re imagining:
“I’ll probably click with women who are exactly like me.”But Italy does what Italy does best… she surprises you.
You’ll meet women in different life stages and somehow it won’t feel “different.” It’ll feel rich.
You’ll learn from each other. Tease each other. Encourage each other. Swap stories on buses and balconies. Give each other perspective. Pull courage out of each other. You’ll watch the power of sisterhood do its thing, the kind that feels utterly unstoppable. and moments full of this is literally what I was made for.It becomes intergenerational in the best possible way, not awkward, not forced, just natural. Like the long-table version of “wait… I needed you.”
And when you get home?
You’re going to have that feeling in your veins, like your life got bigger, your world got wider, and you’re already thinking…
“Okay, when are we doing this again?”So if your brain is trying to find a way out…
“I’m too ___.”
“There won’t be anyone like me.”
“I don’t know anyone.”
“What if I don’t fit?”Just know: that’s normal. That’s the fear talking.
But if something in you is leaning forward… if your heart lights up even a little when you picture it…
That’s usually the part worth listening to.
Because this retreat is for women who are ready to stop waiting.
Ready to say yes to themselves.
Ready to be poured into.
Ready for the kind of friendships that don’t stay in Italy, they follow you home. -
Yes: some details may shift slightly as we finalize vendors, transportation, and group size. We don’t change things dramatically, but Italy is Italy and flexibility is part of traveling well. If something shifts, it’ll always be communicated clearly and early.
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These dates were chosen intentionally to honor real life, not the fantasy version of it. By mid-September, school routines have settled, work rhythms are back in place, and you’re not trying to disappear during the most emotionally chaotic week of the year. We also built this retreat around actual adult logistics: most guests only need five PTO days, and we include a gentle arrival window so you can land, breathe, unpack, and actually arrive before we officially begin. This isn’t a “sprint through Italy” situation, it’s a spacious container designed for women who want to unplug without guilt and come home feeling full, not fried.
And now, here myyyy heart loud + clear: ITALY IN SEPTEMBER IS THE DREAM, mahhhh babesssssss. 🇮🇹✨ September is the sweet spot Italy girls dream about… without the August chaos. August in Europe is basically “everyone is on holiday at the same time” energy, more crowds, hotter temps, and the vibe can feel a little more… theme park. September is when Italy exhales. The beaches are still warm, the sun is still doing her thing, the sea is that unreal blue, and the crowds start to thin out in a way that makes the whole experience feel more local and more luxurious. You get the best of both worlds: peak summer weather + less tourist intensity, which means easier reservations, smoother travel days, more space to breathe, and those slow, cinematic moments you came for.
We chose September because it’s kinder, to your schedule, your budget, and your nervous system.
Translation: September 11–18, 2026 is Calabria at her absolute best. 🤌🏽🌊🍋
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Here's what nobody tells you about the 'classic Italy' route:
You'll see the Colosseum... with 40,000 other people. You'll eat pasta... at restaurants designed for tourists who'll never return. You'll take photos... that look exactly like everyone else's. You'll come home... and need a vacation from your vacation.
And here's the other thing: Italy isn't going anywhere. Rome will still be there next year. Florence will wait for you. But this version of you…the one who's craving a REAL break, not a highlight reel…she needs something different right now.
This isn't your 'only Italy trip.' This is your 'remember who you are' trip.
The Colosseum can wait. Your nervous system can't."
A little note about extending the trip:
"Pro move: Fly into Rome a few days early or stay after in Naples. Get your 'greatest hits' fix, then join us for the Italy that changes you. Best of both worlds, babe."
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(For the Girls Who Guard Their Days Like Gold) 📅
Let's be real: you only get so many PTO days, and you're not about to waste them on a trip that feels 'fine.'
Here's why this week is worth it:
✅ Only 5 PTO days needed (if you fly out Friday/return the following Sunday) ✅ September timing = you're not missing peak work chaos ✅ You'll come back ENERGIZED (not needing to recover from your vacation) ✅ The ROI on your mental health? Literally priceless ✅ This isn't just a trip—it's a RESET that makes the other 47 weeks of the year better
Translation: This isn't 'using up' your PTO. This is investing it in the version of you who shows up better for everything else.
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The 'What If I'm Weird?' Fear (Spoiler: You're Not) 🫶"
"Real talk: the scariest part of booking isn't the money. It's the 'what if I don't fit in?' spiral.
So let me tell you what actually happens:
Day 1: Everyone's a little nervous (yes, even the extroverts) Day 2: Someone makes a joke, everyone laughs, the ice cracks Day 3: You're sharing a bottle of wine and your life story Day 5: You're planning your next trip together Day 7: You're crying at the closing dinner because 'how did we become family in ONE WEEK?'
This happens every single year. Not because we force it. Because when you put good women in a beautiful place with space to breathe... magic happens.
And if you need alone time? TAKE IT. This isn't summer camp. You can skip an activity, take a solo walk, nap for three hours—no one's keeping score.
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We have gals coming from all over the world (literally, Australia, Canada, UK, you name it). The arrival window is designed to give you time to land, breathe, and settle before we officially start.
And yes, we'll help you figure out the logistics.
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This retreat is designed as a women-only space for a reason—the energy, the vulnerability, the sisterhood... it hits different when it's just us. That said, if your partner wants to explore Italy while you're on the retreat and meet up after? That's totally doable.
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There's WiFi at accommodations, and you'll have some free time built in.
That said... this week is designed to UNPLUG. If you absolutely need to take a call, you can, but we're gently encouraging you to let work wait.
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A Note on Pricing (Because We Believe in Radical Transparency) 💰🤍"
Here's something most retreat operators won't tell you: we've lost money on these trips.
Not a little. A lot. Because in years 1-3, we were so focused on making Italy accessible and magical that we underpriced what it actually costs to deliver the experience you deserve. Not to mention theres the whole thing of EURO vs the DOLLAR, big different that actually really adds up especially when we did pricing in USD.
So here's what changed going into Year 4:
🔍 We did the market research. We analyzed 22+ comparable Italy retreats (yoga, culinary, cultural, luxury). We looked at what they charge, what they include, and where we fit. Spoiler: we're offering MORE for LESS in mostly every case, but we were still underpricing ourselves.
🧪 We learned from our beta testers. Our Year 1-3 gals gave us invaluable feedback: what worked, what didn't, what made the trip unforgettable. We've refined the experience based on REAL data, not guesses.
💰 We're pricing for sustainability, not just "filling spots." This means covering actual costs (like $1200 for ONE private van transfer Naples to Scalea 🫠), paying our local partners fairly, taking care of our drivers throughout the week and making sure we can keep doing this for years without burning out.
Here's what this means for YOU:
✅ Book now = lock your price. If you reserve at $2,599 (early bird) or $2,799 (regular), that's YOUR price forever… even if costs increase before September 2026.
⚠️ Prices are subject to change if you're NOT booked. As we finalize vendors, accommodations (we use 3-5 star properties, not budget hostels), and add surprise experiences, costs can shift. February pricing ≠ guaranteed May pricing.
💡 Why prices might go up: Italy isn't cheap when you do it RIGHT. Private transport, boutique stays, curated local experiences, entry fees, hosted coordination, it all adds up. We're not cutting corners. We're building something beautiful. and we believe in giving our gals the best of the best.
Translation: If you're thinking "I'll wait and see," just know: waiting might cost you more (literally). Early birds get the best price AND first dibs on room choice.
Still have questions? Let's talk it out. We're not here to pressure you, we're here to help you make the best decision for YOU. 🤍
We analyzed the top most comparable Italy retreats for women
Here's what we found:
💰 Most charge $3,500-$8,000 for 7 nights
💰 Gals That Italy: $2,599 (early bird)
🎯 What makes us different:
✅ Private transport THE ENTIRE WEEK (drivers/vans, not trains)
✅ Women-only sisterhood (12 max, GTB community)
✅ Deep local connections (Italiaaa is Tiff's heritage)
✅ "Trip parents" hosting 24/7
✅ Hidden gem Southern Italy (not tourist traps)
✅ Flexible payment plans
📊 See the full comparison breakdown here:
Bottom line: You're getting a $6,000-8,000 experience for $2,599-4,099.
Once you book, your price is locked. 🤍
At this point you’re probably like… “How did y’all cover EVERY question?”
You’d think we’ve done this a few times now. 😂
Still curious about something? Email us here if it’s a good question, we’ll add it to the FAQ so the next gal can exhale too.
And if you’re ready…
Receipts, your honor 💅
Because I could write poetic paragraphs about Calabria all day… but it hits different when you hear it from the gals who actually went.
Meet Your Guide: your Italian sista from another mista 💖🇮🇹
Hi, I’m Tiff, founder of Gals That Brunch (almost 11 years in… still crying) and the girl who will absolutely make sure you never feel alone at a table again. GTB started as a simple dream: women finding real friendship in real life. Not “comment hearts” friendship, the kind where you can exhale, be honest, and feel brave again. Toes under the same table. Pinky fingers locked. A global sisterhood that actually feels like sisterhood.
Now here’s the plot twist: as much as I love our chapters around the world, my big dream has always been… how do we squeeze every gal together? Because what makes GTB GTB isn’t just that we’re in 150+ cities, it’s that women from different places, stories, and seasons keep discovering the same thing: I belong here. “Every nation, tribe, and tongue” energy, but make it brunch and deep healing talks and belly laughs.
Six years ago, I landed in Calabria, Italy, the land of my people, on a burnout-healing journey. I didn’t come looking for a big moment… I came because I was tired. And Italy met me like a reset button. The people, the history, the legacy, the inheritance this place carries, every time I return, it’s like it knits me back together. It reminds me what really matters. It puts the pep back in my step. It makes room in my chest again. And somewhere in that healing, I kept thinking: I want my girls to feel this too.
So instead of waiting for “someday we’ll all be together,” I started hosting small, intimate Italy retreats now and we’re heading into our 4th year. Every single year, women show up from different cities and chapters (some brand new to GTB, some longtime fam), a little nervy, a little hopeful, sometimes straight-up exhausted… and then Italy does what she does: she softens us, she surprises us, and she stitches strangers into sisters around one long table.
And yes, this is the part I want you to understand: you’re not just coming to Italy. You’re coming to my Italy. You’ll spend the week with me, my family, and my friends in a small Calabrian town, the kind of place you can’t find on a highlight reel, where people still wave from balconies and dinner lasts three hours because… why would we rush something sacred? It’s an experience you can’t copy-paste or buy off the internet. It’s lived. It’s personal. It’s home.
If you’ve been craving a week that feels like sunshine for your nervous system and sisterhood for your soul… I cannot wait to welcome you. 🍋🥂🌊
Got questions? Curiosities? Need someone to hold your pinky finger while you decide? We're here for it. 🤝💗
Real talk: You don't have to have it all figured out before you book a call with us.
You can show up with:
A notes app full of questions
A "I think I want this but I'm scared" confession
A "my friend thinks I'm crazy" story
A "can you just tell me this is a good idea?" plea
Literally anything
This call isn't a sales pitch. It's a "let us help you figure out if this is YOUR thing" conversation. Because here's what we know: When it's right, you FEEL it. And when you're not sure? That's okay too. We'd rather you feel 100% confident than 75% confused.
So if you're:
Still Googling "is Calabria worth it?"
Refreshing this page for the 47th time
Texting your bestie "should I just do it?"
Waiting for a sign (hi, this is it)
We'll walk you through everything, answer the questions you're too nervous to ask in an email, and help you figure out what makes sense for YOU. Plus its way more fun to put a voice with a voice and name with a name, amiirightttt.
And if at the end you're like "actually this isn't for me right now"? We'll literally cheer you on and send you on your way with zero weird vibes. Promise.
But if you're like "OKAY YES I'M DOING THIS"? We'll help you get it all sorted out on the spot and start the pre-trip love immediately. 🥂