Is airfare included in the price of the program?

Air transportation is not included, for students.

How do I get from the airport/train station to the hotel?

A private car/van is generally included in Program Price. We will arrange and provide based on the information you give.

Do I have to pay for transportation when going from the hotel to scheduled program activities?

Transportation is included for scheduled program activities (private car, van, ferry boat). You must pay for transportation to activities you have privately arranged and not already noted in our program.

I do not speak Italian, is it necessary that I do?

It is our experience that most people you will meet in Italy speak some English. The front desk staff of our hotels speak English and other languages as well. If you are interested in getting the basics down, check out a free cell phone application like Duolingo.

Do I need Travel Insurance?

It is strongly recommended that you purchase Travel Interruption / Health Insurance as we do not refund deposits and payments 45 days prior to the program start date. Travel Tip: Sign up for Smart Traveler through the US State Department for travel information.

What if I want to stay at the Hotel before or after the Program?

We will contact the Hotel for availability and make the reservations on your behalf. You pay the Hotel Directly for extra room nights including taxes, food, beverages, and gratuities.

I plan to travel on my own before/after the program? Do you arrange this?

You and/or your travel agent will make your arrangements for travel outside the Program, however, we will assist in arrangements for your pick-up at our usual points.

What will my travel companion do while I am in an Art or Cooking Workshop? Will we see each other during the week?

Our program is planned so that artists /cooks or guests will be in the same location throughout the day and will be able to take advantage of that location’s attractions.

Please Note: Specialty Workshops in art or cooking must be Reserved and Paid Prior to the start of the tour.

What can we expect if my travel companion does not paint or cook?

Tour Programs are designed for anyone to enjoy their week with La Gioia Vita. We have general information on activities in the area. Usually, the front desk can assist with reserving special interest tours or activities during free time. Payment is made directly to the tour provider.

We are a group of 3 people and want to share a room. Is this possible?

We will communicate with the hotel on the availability of a triple room which are limited. First come, first serve.

As an Artist, what medium do I use?

Any medium is acceptable. Demonstrations are in oils but Sam D’Ambruoso is qualified in all mediums and will do a demo using your medium if asked. There is ample time for individual attention at the easel and critiques are held at least 3 times during the week with one final group critique on the last day.

Do I have to bring my own equipment?

Yes, Artists are responsible for bringing all necessary equipment. Including but not limited to: easel, canvases/paper, brushes, paints, and other tools. If you prefer to sit while painting bring a portable stool. An umbrella is also recommended. Please note there are no art supply shops nearby. A supply list will be sent upon Registration.

Can I ship my equipment?

We do NOT recommend shipping equipment as other participants’ packages have been held up in Customs.

What if I or my travel companion chose not to participate in a scheduled program event (e.g. day trips)?

We do not require attendees to go along with a scheduled event. However, please note there are no reimbursements of the program price if you choose not to participate. We do require to please let us know in advance if you plan to “take the day off” from a scheduled event in order to enable us to adjust travel and dining arrangements.

Can I refill my prescriptions or replace my eyeglasses?

Pharmacies and Optical services are not always readily available. We recommend that you bring any Prescriptions or OTC remedies you usually use in sufficient supply. Also, we recommend an extra pair of necessary eyewear. It is our experience “If you ever needed it - bring it with you.”

Are medical services nearby?

Each region we visit has Medical Emergency Services. However, each individual town/city may not have these services available on a walk-in basis. The front desk of the hotels generally has up-to-date information. You will be responsible for expenses incurred during a medical emergency. However, it is the current custom in Italy that hospital services are at no charge to travelers.

Is there Internet Service at the Hotel?

Generally, there is Wi-Fi at each hotel. You will be given an access code. Some hotels have computers for customers to use to check email, etc. There may be a nominal charge and time limit for this service.

Do you need a phone or laptop?

Most guests travel with their own cell phones. Arrange with your cell phone provider for International service. A laptop is not necessary (unless it is for you).

Let’s try and unplug from our screens. It will be there after you explore history, nature, and culture.

Why does the Hotel take my Passport when I register?

The hotel is required by the Italian Government to record the information of all guests at the beginning of their stay. Your Passport is returned to you within a few hours. We recommend bringing a paper copy of all identifications when you travel “just in case”.

Do I need to keep my Passport on me when we are not at the hotel?

It is recommended that you always keep your Passport with you. You will need it to exchange Dollars / Euros and for identification.

How much cash in Euros should I bring with me? Are there ATMs nearby? Where do I exchange cash? What about Travelers Checks?

It is recommended that you bring at least 200 Euros from the US. There are ATMs in most of the towns, however occasionally they may be “out of order.” MasterCard/ Visa Credit/ Debit Cards are accepted in most places. Always check before hand and have cash on you in case you are caught in a “cash only” situation. Do not bring travelers checks as most places are not taking them. Cash exchange locations vary from town to town. Some local Post Offices will exchange US dollar for Euros. You will need your Passport. It is highly unusual to use Banks in Italy for cash exchange purposes.

Do I need a Car? What if I want to have a car available to me?

No, you don’t need one during the Program. We provide group transportation to all scheduled activities. However, if you want a car, please consult your preferred car rental company. Keep in mind you may be charged to park at the hotel and in most cases parking is extremely limited. Also, it is your responsibility to return the car back to base and pay for any transportation if needed. All towns do not have car rental locations available for pick up or drop off and may be quite a distance away.

Can we design our own program? How many people do we need?

Yes, La Gioia Vita will work with you to design customized programs for groups of 12 people minimum, or more, incorporating your special interests. Double occupancy required. Group may request its own dates and program and we will confirm availability and make the necessary reservations with our providers. La Gioia Vita personnel will also attend throughout your Program and your Group will have an agreed upon program, itinerary and price.