Frequently Asked Questions
What is included?
Six nights double occupancy lodging, six Continental breakfasts, comprehensive learning program including services of study leaders and local experts, all cultural activities listed for the trip, wine at wine tastings, cooking class including meal, two dinners, two lunches, museum entrances listed for the trip, pre-trip notes and guidelines.
What isn’t included?
Airfare and other transportation costs; passport fees, photos and processing where applicable; transfers to and from airports; meals other than those described above; personal items such as individual journaling and art supplies, wines, liquors, valet/laundry charges, and other items not specifically mentioned as included; optional activities, if any; supplement for single room; additional nights lodging.
How do I register?
Each page describing a trip has a link to pay a $250 USD deposit to hold your space for that trip. You will be contacted within in 48 hours to set up the next steps of the registration process.
How do I pay?
The balance including single room supplement of $150 USD and optional activities, if any, is due as indicated on the registration form, which is approximately 90 days prior to trip commencement. Payment installments can be arranged directly with Adventures in Italy Inc. Methods of payment accepted are check, Visa and Mastercard.
How big are the groups?
Groups range in size from 6 – 12. Occasionally they will be a little larger. We believe small group travel is more enjoyable, intimate, and fun. Michelle is with each group ensuring that this is the exceptional trip you expect it to be.
How do I get to Orvieto?
We provide extensive travel information to you via a travel guide with directions and images of everything. You can take a train directly in front of the airport to the train station in Rome. From there another train whisks you to Orvieto. The cost is about 25 euros. We have been told by previous travelers that our directions are perfect. No one has gotten lost! There is also the option to hire a car to bring you from the airport to Orvieto, at your own expense, for around 300 euros.
Once in Orvieto, how do I get to the convent?
A funicular (tram) in front of the train station takes you up onto the “rock” upon which medieval Orvieto sits. Exit the station and get on a minibus for a winding ride through medieval streets that drops you near our convent B&B. Ticket for the funicular is good on the bus and costs about 3 euros. The travel guide we provide has pictures to show you the way. We send you maps, directions, and pictures before you leave showing all you need.
We suggest that you be physically fit. Our trips require some walking and standing, and we do go up and down in a variety of places. Elevators are less prevalent than in the North America, and you will likely have to go up and down stairs to navigate trains throughout Italy.
What about language barriers, finding my way, getting lost?
We all have travel fears. Even those of us who travel often experience worries and concerns when we venture overseas. It comes with the territory. Here is some of what we have discovered about these fears.
- People, the world over, are exceptionally generous and helpful. On every trip we have taken, we are reminded of this as people come to our aid, sensing or seeing our doubts or confusion.
- Despite language barriers, we have always managed to communicate. It is often a surprise to learn how many people speak English – enough to help with any need.
- Sometimes, it is getting lost that provides the most memorable experiences!
- We are consistently impressed with the sense of accomplishment and pride our participants develop as they begin to venture out, explore, conquer their fears, and develop the confidence to go on their own anyplace. This opens the world to them and is a joy to watch.
- There is no eliminating concerns and/or fears. Never, however, have people failed to help us. As a result, one of the great eye openers of travel is a reminder of how generous and helpful mankind is. It is rewarding and humbling to experience.
- Part of the role we describe for ourselves is to help you with travel. Not only is this travel to learn, it is learn to travel.
Why a convent?
Located in a former palace, the convent operates as a Bed and Breakfast, and adds immeasurably to your experience. The three nuns are incredibly hospitable. They love and care for the place like you do your home. Indeed, it is their home. It provides a glimpse into Italian life that an institutional hotel simply can not. Rooms are simple and functional, all have modern bathrooms, and are immaculately clean. There is space to spread out, places for contemplation and reading. The building sits over Etruscan caves, has 14th and 15th century frescoes, and placid views. The convent becomes your home in our small group travel environment, one you will not want to leave at week’s end!
What are your terms and conditions?
A NON-REFUNDABLE REGISTRATION DEPOSIT of $250 USD is due now. Final payment deadline is due 90 days prior to travel. We are pleased to offer returning guests a 10% discount which will be taken off your balance owing.
Cancellations and Refunds:
Written cancellation is required to process a refund. There are no refunds after the registration deadline. Although unlikely, the tour may be canceled due to unforeseen circumstances. If canceled, the entire amount paid will be refunded within fourteen days after the tour’s cancellation. Once this occurs, Adventures in Italy Inc. has no other obligations including any additional costs or fees related to the issuance and/or cancellation of airline tickets or other travel reservations. Adventures in Italy Inc. accepts no liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non- refundable ticket. Nor does it accept liability for canceled flights.
Insurance:
It is strongly recommended that all tour participants purchase Trip Cancellation, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Baggage, Accident and Medical insurance covering all trip and workshop costs from a reputable insurance company. Adventures in Italy Inc. is not liable for cancellation of trip for any reason other than Adventures in Italy Inc. canceling the trip. Please note, people have had to cancel for illness and other reasons. Adventures in Italy Inc. will not refund fees after the trip deadline date unless it cancels the trip. While not an endorsement, travel insurance options can be found at www.insuremytrip.com
COVID Guidelines (updated February 1, 2024)
Because we are traveling to Italy, we must follow their requirements with regard to entry, testing, masking, etc. We will monitoring entry requirements. With your registration, guests acknowledge and assume all risks related to COVID-19 exposure. If guest tests positive for COVID-19 immediately prior to travel (72 hours), Adventures in Italy Inc will transfer payment to a future trip, or refund payment less $500 for operating costs.
Document requirements:
Please note that entry into Italy may be denied even with the proper travel documents.
Passport required to travel:
US citizens: valid 6 months after departure date
Canadian citizens: valid 6 months after departure date
UK citizens: valid for duration of stay
Australian citizens: valid 6 months after departure, can’t stay more than 90 days
South African citizens: visa required
All other nationalities, Adventures in Italy will contact you with requirements specific to your country.
Photography and Written Records:
Adventures in Italy Inc. reserves the right and all participants agree to allow Adventures in Italy Inc. to take photographic, film or text records of any of our trips and trip participants, and may use any such records for promotional purposes.
START YOUR ADVENTURE IN ITALY
ARTIST ENRICHMENT TRIPS
Combine the rich culture while exploring your art with one of our exceptional instructors. With Orvieto as your artistic muse, come away with a one of a kind keepsake of your time here.