ABOUT THIS TRIP
For the traveler who craves extraordinary and unexpected moments, this journey will whisk you away from the crowds to discover authentic Sicily in untouched villages. Laugh with locals at their dinner table, gaze at unbelievable ancient ruins, learn about artisan traditions, and experience the true essence of Sicilian culture– all while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Spring in Sicily.
HIGHLIGHTS
IMMERSE
yourself in authentic Sicily, away from the crowds.
EXPERIENCE
the vibrant markets of Palermo and ancient ruins in the Valley of the Temples.
CONNECT
with locals and learn about village life through their traditions.
LEARN
family recipes from an Italian mama in her home.
STAY
at an Organic Farm Resort and in a Medieval Abbey.
Step into Italy as if you're a Local.
LOCATIONS
PERKS
Slower-paced & stress-free travel
Unique experiences crafted directly with locals to highlight the authentic culture.
Exclusive group of just 7 like-minded travelers.
Plenty of free time to do your own thing.
Explore places that tourists have never heard of.
Thoughtfully crafted with extensive research in the area for genuine & meaningful connection with locals.
INCLUDED
8 nights' accommodation in a private room (4 nights in Organic Farm Resort, 4 nights in Medieval Abbey)
8 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 7 dinners including wine, and 4 tastings/aperitivo
Carbon Footprint Offset: A donation will be made to fund projects that reduce carbon emissions and improve daily life in impoverished areas.
Transportation + Private Driver
Flight Expert to research and book flights
Pick up from your accommodations in Palermo, Departure Transfer to Palermo Airport
Trip Leader fluent in English and Italian
Tips for the driver & guides
Pre-Trip Prep: Cultural and Italian language guidance, packing tips, and additional resources to fully connect you with what you'll experience! Local recommendations in each location.
All Activities
Palermo Market Tour
Street Food Lunch
Welcome Cocktail & Dinner
Many Meals in Local Homes
Surprise Encounters
Valley of the Temples Tour
Visits to Lesser-Known Villages
Winery Visit, Tasting, & Lunch
Bell Workshop Visit
Tour a Medieval Abbey
Basket Weaving Demo
Cooking Class in Local Home
Foraging Walk
Free Time for Your Own Discoveries!
EXCLUDED
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Flights: We'll help you find the best flights for your dates, free of charge!
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Some Meals: Meals not described in the itinerary. (We believe scoping out your own hole-in-the-wall is part of the experience and we leave room for that!) Our included meals are so abundant that guests usually stick to gelato or something light when a meal is not included.
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Incidental Expenses: A/C or Heat may cost extra at some locations. Additional services you order such as massages or additional alcohol not already included etc will be at your own expense.
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Mandatory Travel Insurance: Note that "Cancel for Any Reason" policies must be purchased 14-21 days after your first payment towards your trip, so this is the first thing you'll want to take care of after paying your deposit!
From $5,100 USD per person
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Active travelers who want to access authentic
Italy without the logistics.
Who is this trip for?
Our travelers want to leave the crowded tourist paths behind, without spending weeks researching. They want to connect with locals, but don't have years to perfect a new language. And while they love back roads and hidden villages, they're not up for the hassle and risk of driving a rental in a foreign country.
Our travelers are warm. They’re curious. And they want to see Italy with open hearts, open minds, and without the growl of a giant tour bus announcing their arrival. They are immersion seekers who want to step into the everyday life of authentic Italy!
Sound like you?
Our travelers are generally 45 - 65 years old but we also get adventurers in their 30's or into their 70's or 80's! We welcome everyone 18+!
The Important Details
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This trip involves walking on uneven ground for over an hour.
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Please note that you'll need to carry your own luggage up and down stairs at hotels and across cobblestone.
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The longest drive will be about 2 hours, but we'll take breaks.
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Wifi is available in all locations but connection may be not be as strong as what you're used to.
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Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated if you let us know well in advance.
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Travelers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Covid regulations change rapidly and may require additional booster shots, wearing masks, and testing.
NEXT CHANCE TO GO:
April 19 - 27, 2024
Starting from $5,100 USD per person
Reviews
Experiences based on authentic connection with locals and their home.
At Creative Edge Travel, we believe every journey should be meaningful. It should teach you about the authentic local culture and a bit about yourself, too. That's why we push the boundaries of the typical Italian tour and add our own creative edge. We design our experiences with individual locals in off-the-beaten-path places to give you a culturally-immersive adventure.
Each activity is an opportunity to learn about both the beauty and the challenges of everyday life in Italy. Whether it's exploring a village with a local grandpa as he shares his stories growing up there, or learning traditional music and dance at a historic masseria, expect a deeper travel experience.
This also means that sometimes reasonable flexibility is required on your part. There's no science to getting a 90 year old Italian grandpa to show up on time, you just take what you get and roll with it! If you're the type of traveler who can stay flexible and relaxed knowing no matter WHAT you do, it's going to be awesome, then you're a great fit for this trip!