Frequently Asked Questions
Have a look through our most frequently asked questions where you’ll find quick answers to our guests’ most common questions and concerns. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to help!
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1. What is Soleil Retreat?
Soleil Retreat is a boutique, small group tour company that creates retreats and tours in Italy.
2. How do I book a space on one of your listed trips?
Our booking process is easy and secure! Simply go to our Booking Page, select your trip, complete the online booking form. Once your deposit is received, we’ll send along an officially confirmation by email.
3. What type of ground transportation do you provide?
We provide private ground transportation by either van or mini-bus, depending on the transfer. Our professional drivers are excellent and have been driving for many years.
4. In what currency are your prices?
Our prices are listed in US dollars.
5. What can I expect for meals?
Italian culture is inseparably entwined with its food, which is why we carefully select meals and menus that feature the very best regional dishes made of fresh, locally grown ingredients. Our guests rave about the meals!
6. How should I dress during the trip?
We recommend comfortable, casual clothing that includes breathable fabrics and items that you can layer. Although formal attire is not necessary, we request smart casual at dinners. No shorts or workout attire at dinners, please.
Versatile, comfortable shoes or sandals that can be worn for either sightseeing or dining are ideal. We recommend traveling with 2-3 pairs of shoes, as it’s often helpful to alternate the shoes you wear throughout the trip for optimum comfort.
7. How should I pack for my trip?
We highly recommend that you travel light, plan to wear outfits more than once and bring luggage that is easy for you to handle on your own.
8. Is tipping customary?
Tipping is per your discretion and is always appreciated.
9. Should I obtain travel insurance?
Yes! We highly recommend that you obtain travel insurance. If you must cancel your participation in a Strada Toscana workshop, retreat or trip for any reason whatsoever – including health reasons for yourself or a family member at home – cancellation fees as stated in our Terms and Conditions will apply. Travel Insurance – specifically trip cancellation insurance – can cover some or all of these expenses.
If you miss a specified group pick-up and transfer due to a delayed, cancelled or missed flight or for any reason whatsoever, you are responsible for arranging and paying for your own transportation. Travel insurance – specifically trip cancellation or trip interruption insurance – can cover some of all of these expenses.
10. Do I need an electrical adapter to charge devices while in Italy?
Yes! In order to charge your smart phone, tablet or other device while traveling in Italy, you will need an electrical adapter for Italian outlets. Electrical adapters allow North American style prongs to be accepted in European outlets. This should not be confused with an electrical voltage converter – which is NOT needed for charging devices.
If you will be traveling with a curling iron, hair dryer, hair straightener, etc., be sure the device has a dual switch to change from 110 voltage to 220 (European) voltage.
11. Can I use credit cards in Italy?
Yes! All major credit cards can be used in Italy. But be sure to notify your bank and/or credit card company before traveling otherwise your attempted charges or withdrawals will likely be viewed as fraudulent and your card can be blocked. Note that sometimes shops in small towns will prefer cash.
12. What is the best way to get euros for my trip?
The best, safest and most cost effective way to obtain euros for your trip is to withdrawal euros from an ATM machine (called a Bancomat) AFTER you arrive in Italy.
Keep in mind that you will likely be charged a fee by your bank (usually $3 – $5) each time you withdraw money, and there will probably be a limit on the amount that you can withdraw at a given time (ask your bank), but the fee to convert dollars to euros before your trip is usually much more costly.
13. Is there a lot of walking on your trips?
Our trips are designed for active travelers. They are not recommended for those with walking difficulties, breathing issues or any health-related condition that would severely limit trip participation and/or impede or inconvenience the rest of the group.
In general, we recommend getting in condition by regularly walking on before you arrive in Italy. Medieval villages have steep avenues, and you will certainly encounter hard cobblestones and uneven pavement. Proper walking shoes and attire are a must. In addition, we are unable to accommodate walkers, wheelchairs of motorized vehicles.
14. Are your tours non-smoking?
Yes. All Soleil Retreat tours are non-smoking.
15. Do I need a passport to travel to Italy?
Yes. A valid passport is required to travel to Italy. If you do not have a passport, we recommend that you apply for one as soon as possible. If your passport expires within 6 months of the tour start date, be sure to renew as soon as possible at your nearest passport office.
It’s also advised to have passport replacement forms printed and packed in your luggage, along with passport photos, in the unlikely event that your passport is lost during your trip, Although it takes a bit of time to get these things in order, it will save you a lot of time and aggravation during your trip.