"George & I will never forget how the people of Sicily opened their hearts to us on our special day. The church that you found for us on the island of Ortigia, the Crown of Madonna that they gave me to wear, the way we strolled to church that morning with you leading us and all the people saying "auguri" (congratulations) on that gorgeous sunny day; the hospitality of the man who provided our wedding dinner, and closed the restaurant just for us. Meeting the wonderful couples, who will be in our hearts forever and who were all part of our wedding party. The time we spent together, the special workshop activities you had us do to connect us heart to heart. We will never forget the many loving gestures that you did for us Grace--all the extras, and all your knowledge of the country, and the language. It was truly an extraordinary vacation way beyond our expectation. We can't wait to come again on one of your trips!" Lorna & George Novak, Oshawa

"I can’t begin to describe what this trip to Sicily has meant to me… It meant that for once I put myself first… It meant that I discovered new wonderful friends who encouraged and helped me to step out of my comfort zone… It meant that I could be myself or at least try to rediscover the old Monique… It meant that I could have fun without having to look over my shoulder…It allowed me to forget about my problems back home for a while… It gave me, with your help, the energy and the will to take the risk to make a difficult decision that will certainly change my life one way or the other. This vacation was different because it was cultural trip but more importantly a spiritual one… It was with women who were so generous in helping me do some inner growth, in spite of their own needs … And obviously because it was with you; how special…There were so many wonderful moments… I loved the Valley of the Temples… I just loved everything about Taormina… I loved the supper on the Thursday before we left… the camaraderie, the closeness that developed between the women during those 10 days…We had fun, we laughed, we joked; it was a great way to finish the trip… Grace, how can I thank you for organizing such a wonderful trip… You are the best; how lucky I am to have you in my life… I will cherish this trip for ever… The days I will feel down, I will look at my pictures from Sicily and remember that life can be beautiful and worth living …I will definitely return to Sicily… I will undoubtedly join you again on one of your trips… " MONIQUE, Ottawa

"I have never travelled to Europe or with a group, it was outstandingly above expectations, having much more to do with the work you put into our journey, the tours, the guides, the food and the fun – as well as the work we did. To sit on the beach or in a Villa at night and talk about our day and what our heart feels. It’s an outstanding way to vacation. I just loved the Valley of the Temples and the Garden lunch and our exercise there. I also loved the day we spent with Giacomo, the dancing in Taormina... I loved the gondola and the evening meals at the cafés there. And I am proud to be a woman – two very important takeaways from the group. Thanks again Grace, for everything...." Susan, Guelph

"I have never had the courage to travel on my own – now I do. I have never had the time and opportunity to reflect so clearly far from home – now I have. This trip was a thrilling life experience that will be the catalyst for many more ….. I learned that I gather strength and clarity when I can focus on troubling issues far away from the struggle of everyday life. It wasn’t just a vacation….. the word journey is a better descriptive word and it implies that I learned as I travelled and I surly did. My expectations were blown away not only in the beauty of the Island but also in the beauty of the people~ Of all the things we did, what stands out is the wonderful community spirit, the slower pace that the Sicilian people have set for themselves so that they can enjoy life. I loved the city of Taormina and the stunning views of the landscape and sea, it was inspiring and made my knees weak……. like a long passionate kiss! ….everything you planned for us Grace was truly wonderful and meaningful……… everything you spoke to me about remains in my thoughts and heart. My deepest and most heartfelt thanks Grace! Love, Lorraine oxo, Barrie, ON

"I cannot say how much I am still affected by this trip to Sicily ... I have lived and worked around the world over the years ... But this trip for some reason has had a real impact on me. I feel lighter, more passionate about myself and my life and everything and everyone around me, perhaps I have had an "epiphany" of sorts (not sure what that means!) but it has really had a profound
impact on my life and wellbeing. I do not want to lose it ... Last night even dreamt I was back in Sicily. I have a dream to return asap, to stay for a period of time, to learn Italian, to spend much more time there. Was it the air, the water, the company of beautiful women, our leader and mentor Grace and all her gifts, knowledge, wisdom and talents, thank you so much Grace, I did not have the chance to tell you at the airport, but it was absolutely one of my BEST holidays and travel experiences ever!" B Doyle, Kingston, ON

"Grace, you are an incredible human being. The Retreat far exceeded my expectations. Sicily is absolutely breathtaking--a paradise! I loved the people, the language, the olive oil, the sites, the vistas and the variety. And a view of the ocean from everywhere we were was a real treat. The Greek Theatre in Taormina stands out as the most stunning of sightseeing activities. It really took my breath away. This trip exceeded my expectations. Grace, you are so organized, which made the entire Retreat stress free. The itinerary had a fantastic balance of sightseeing and leisure. What made this trip different for me was having the opportunity to bond with such an incredible group of like-minded women. I will always remember how passionate the Italian people are....my eyes have been opened to a world beyond the one I knew, in so many ways. This trip was worth every penny. I can hardly wait to return!" Carrie, London

Dear Grace, "The Sicily women's retreat was such a moving experience.....I will never be the same. I am still in awe of the extraordinary beauty of nature and of structures new and old .Witnessing so much has renewed my interest in history, geography,travel and the developement of human nature....I believe the experience with you and this group was meant to be. What a beautiful group of women you attracted. Thanks for everything, Grace. With love," Nancy, Kitchener

Bellissima Grace, "Thank you so much for this fabulous trip. The whole adventure far exceeded my expectations. I had many wondrous and emotional moments when I wasn't even able to click my camera. I could only watch and take in the incredible beauty. You are such an inspiring and beautiful woman...to go to all the trouble and every last detail to ensure our pleasure...the gifts, the bus upgrades, the theatre seats.....thanks for the encouragement that I come on the ride. I have enjoyed every second of it. Ciao bella." Adelina, Mississauga

Kolymbetra The Ancient Garden…..

silence echoes capricious sea breezes, fertile
     waters of the orange blossom and the flutter of white butterlies on gentle winds;
limestone seas impress their magical mystery on ancient lives,
     where the fish spawned,
and the goddess of antiquity bathed;
quiet streams meander, birthing enchanted groves
     of rosemary, laurel, sage,
and saracen olive trees— fragrant aromas after a   long journey;
mediterranean marquis, canebrake, adorn our pathway,
     willows, tamarisks and a luxuriant growth of splendid pomegranates;

and wavy- haired, in a laurel wreath, Persephone cradles fruit
on her bosom, here in the Eternal garden, Kolymbetra!

~ Filomena Costa, Poet, Sicily traveller 2006

taormina
indigo streams, quietly moving beyond ,
     still still, while the peace of ocean waves
silence the yearning of my heart-
                  to retreat from concrete jungles
I that forever would be encased in
      resplendent moonlight, walk on sandy shores-
I savor the embracing southern
                       wind on my olive skin,
villas' carved into hillsides, medieval streets
       endlessly winding, fragrant bougainvillea blossoms on beautiful rickety wooden balconies  and arched doorways to shrouded temples-
               secret burial place of the goddess;
we ventured, too, like poets, arm in arm
     wondering if D.H. Lawrence wrote Lady Chatterley in the palazzo with mosaic floor, or looking over exotic lemon
                   and orange groves, sipping Sicilian wine
our breathtaking sanctuary, a respite for our weathered souls,
        we danced on our Romeo and Juliet balcony,
while Mt. Etna elusively let a few grey wisps
                    into the starry night-

I thought of Vincent van Gogh
and found the muse of inspiration
hid in the magnificence of Taormina

~ Filomena Costa, Poet, Sicily traveller 2006

Retreat to Sicily,

Italy

with your Host Grace Cirocco

12 days/11 nights

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL TO ITALY

For greatest flexibility, we suggest you book your own travel to Sicily with a travel agent. Most flights to Europe are in the evening. You will probably be flying into Rome and then flying into Sicily. The closest airport to our first destination is CATANIA. However, you can also fly into Palermo. You can use your own travel agent, or the following two agents we suggest: OLGA at the Wholesale Travel Group 1-888-388-1000 X 3225 or 416-366-1000 X3225. E-mail her at oan@wholesale.com , or Gina Marcone, at Thomas Cook Travel 1-800-442-4741 X223 gmarcone@thomascook.ca. Tell them that you’ll be registering for the Couples Retreat to Sicily with Grace Cirocco and they’ll take good care of you.

If you want to extend your trip by a few days in Venice or Rome, you can arrange that with these agents. Make sure you ask them about “charter flights” to Italy. Italy has a few good domestic airlines which are very reasonably priced. We recommend Wind Jet and Air One.

ARRIVE IN BEAUTIFUL TAORMINA & CHECK IN AT THE SPECTACULAR HOTEL VILLA SANT’ANDREA

Check in anytime after 12 NOON at our hotel, the beautiful Villa Sant'Andrea, an exclusive property belonging to the Framon Group hotel chain. Immersed in a park with subtropical vegetation, it commands an inspiring view of the "Bay di Mazzarò". It is located on its own private beach. Your heart will be moved as you open the shutters in your room and step onto your Juliette balcony. The sea is so close, you can touch it. This hotel has been known since the fifties as one of the most exclusive in Taormina and many tour operators say it is the most beautiful in all of Italy! The restaurant "Oliviero" is one of the most romantic spots in all of Taormina. Click here to see photos: www.framonhotelgroup.com/en/taormina/hotel_villa_sant_andrea/index.html
Address of Hotel Villa Sant’Andrea: Via Nazionale, 137 - 98030 Taormina Mare (Me) Tel.+39 0942 23125

Depending on when you arrive, the rest of the day is at your leisure. Unpack, relax and catch up on your sleep today in your room with the inspiring view or by the beach. Enjoy the spectacular gardens around the hotel and the beautiful beach. It will be warm enough to go for a dip in the ocean.
Dinner on your own
Please consider arriving as early as you can so you can take full advantage of your day in gorgeous Taormina.

CABLE CAR TO TAORMINA, WALKING TOUR AND WELCOME DINNER

Breakfast included. Villa Sant' Andrea serves one of the most comprehensive gourmet buffet breakfasts you'll ever experience, complete with help-yourself-champagne and freshly squeezed orange juice to create delicious mimosas.
After breakfast meet Grace and the other couples on the Terrace for an official Welcome and Introductions.
10:00 am Grace will guide you to the cable car for our first adventure. Up on top, in Old Taormina, we will be greeted by our English speaking Professional Guide who will share their enthusiasm and colourful anecdotes about this extraordinary city. First, we'll visit the Greek-Roman Theatre, the most important historical monument in Taormina-the one time pride and joy of the Greeks and the Romans. The views alone from the theatre will take your breath away. Then, we'll be guided through "Porta Messina" and along the main street "Corso Umberto", which is alive with energy, all the way to "Porta Messina" which is at the other end of town.
1 pm Group Lunch (not included): After our tour, we will stop at the famous Wunderbar Café in the town square where musicians and artists convene and where there is a beautiful view of the sea. Enjoy Sicilian pizza or a plate of fresh seafood as you enjoy the beautiful ambience of this outdoor terrace café.
Your afternoon is free. Stay in Taormina or go back down to Villa Sant'Andrea where you can relax on the beach, on your terrace, or in the gorgeous tropical gardens.
8pm - Welcome Dinner Included Grace welcomes you to this spectacular 3 course dinner at one of the finest restaurants in Taormina. Sicilians have an amazing sweet tooth and you'll sample some of their delicious fresh pastries for dessert. You will also enjoy your choice of red or white wine.

BOAT TOUR, THE BLUE GROTTO & THE SPECTACULAR BEACH AT ISOLA BELLA

Breakfast Included
11am Grace has arranged for a boat tour this morning. You'll be picked up on the beach at our hotel. Visit the Gulf of Mazzaro, the Gulf of Giardini-Naxos, the coastline and the famous blue grotto. Bring your towels and bathing suits. Later, you'll be dropped off at the famous Isola Bella beach where the turquoise crystal clear water will soothe your soul. Relax, sleep and take it slow today as you work on your tan.
Group Lunch at Isola Bella Included: After our boat tour, enjoy your lunch at one of the best restaurants in town located right on the beach on Isola Bella. Isola Bella is a favourite with couples as it is very romantic.
Dinner on your own: On your last night in this beautiful destination, we suggest you take the cable car back to the old town and enjoy a romantic stroll through Taormina's main street, "Corso Umberto". Everyone loves the shopping in Taormina! Shops open at 4:30pm and close when restaurants open. Later, find the perfect restaurant for your evening's meal but with one stipulation-it must be romantic!

MOUNT ETNA, MEDIEVAL CASTLE OF ENNA AND TRANSFER TO AGRIGENTO

Breakfast Included
Leisure Time: Enjoy Taormina this morning. Journal on the beach or go back up to the main town.
1pm Departure. We'll be picked up by our private driver to take us to our next Sicilian destination.
A VISIT TO MOUNT ETNA: At 3323m (almost 10,902ft) Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe. It is undoubtedly the dominating feature of the eastern part of Sicily and has attracted the attention of artists, poets and philosophers for centuries. Our driver will take us beyond the clouds to the furthest place on Etna where surrounded by black lava rock, you will be treated to extraordinary views of the countryside and the sea.
A VISIT TO ENNA: Because of its central location, Enna is considered the "Naval of Sicily". It rises at the top of a terraced mountain spur, it enjoys a highly panoramic setting in the middle of an agricultural district. Take in the clean air from this vantage point and tour the medieval castle at the top. You'll love Enna!
By late afternoon, we arrive in AGRIGENTO, (called Akragas for the Greeks, but Agrigentum for the Romans, whence its present name, given to it in 1927). Agrigento is located on the southern part of the island and occupies a magnificent panoramic position on a high plateau. It was founded by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the next two centuries. It has been called "the most beautiful city of mortal men", the site that was "sacred to the Goddess Persephone".

Check into our hotel, another in the exclusive Framon Group chain, the gorgeous Dioscuri Bay Palace Hotel 4* www.framonhotels.com/en/agrigento/index.html Dioscuri Palace is a five minute walk away from a beautiful pedestrian area where restaurants, bars, and café’s are located “lungo mare” (beside the sea)..

Group dinner at a seafood restaurant located near our hotel right on the palm-lined Riviera. (Not Included)

WORKSHOP & LEISURE DAY AT SAN LEONE BEACH

Breakfast Included
9:30 - 12 NOON: After a leisurely breakfast, bring your journal and meet Grace pool side for a few relationship exercises. You’ll learn ways to re-connect heart to heart and mind-to-mind while working on your tan and taking in the fresh ocean breeze.
Lunch & afternoon on your own. Our suggestion is to pick up some picnic foods at the market nearby, a bottle of wine and walk to the beach (10 minutes from our hotel). There you can have a romantic picnic while communicating with the "tools" you learned in the morning. Enjoy some intimate time on your own this afternoon while relaxing on the beach. You can also opt to stay at our beautiful hotel and enjoy the gardens and pool.
7pm We will take the city bus into Old Town Agrigento (10 minute ride) tonight for our dinner. Grace will show you the main street "Via Atenea" and her favourite restaurants. Before dinner, enjoy a brief "passeggiata" (stroll) with the locals and enjoy the tremendous energy of the people. Then you can dine alone or join Grace and our group as we sit down at a typical outdoor restaurant and dine under the stars.

THE VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES AND A PICNIC LUNCH IN THE KOLYMBETRA GARDENS

Breakfast Included: Our adventure begins at 9:00 am this morning as we meet our Professional English speaking tour guide, who will take us to the Valley of the Temples, a place so rich in antiquity and so valuable to our collective archaeological past, that UNESCO has declared it a world heritage site.
The Valley of the Temples date from the 5th century B.C., roughly the same time that the Parthenon was built (438 B.C.) in Athens, Greece. From ancient records, it is known that there were 21 temples on the site, but only ten have been found so far. This location has more ancient Greek temples than anywhere else in the world. Most are in ruins, with pieces strewn about or missing, but fascinating to explore. You’ll be amazed!

Outdoor Picnic Lunch included By mid day we reach the Kolymbetra Garden, an agricultural jewel returned to light after decades of abandon. Archaeological treasures are still being unearthed in this extraordinary garden. There, another English speaking guide will meet us to take us on a tour of this incredible place. This Garden has fruit trees from every part of the world and some of the trees are over 1000 years old! Then surrounded by pomegranate, pistachio, orange and lemon trees and under the Mediterranean sun you will enjoy a typical Sicilian lunch served to you outdoors, complete with local fruit, cheese and wine. This is sure to be a highlight of your trip. After lunch, Grace will lead you through some couple exercises. You'll be inspired in these ancient gardens to share your deepest intimacies.
Dinner on your own—you may decide to stay at your hotel and dine outdoors by the beach or venture into town.

EXPLORING OLD AGRIGENTO & SHOPPING

Breakfast included
10:00 Your host, Grace will take you on an extraordinary walking tour of the oldest section of Agrigento dating back to 500 AD. We will see the beautiful theatres, the town square, and climb the narrow steep steps to the top where we'll visit "Santa Maria degli Greci", the town's oldest church which has glass floors exposing ancient Greek tombs underneath.
We will also visit pastry chefs where we are shown how chefs prepare Sicily 's most famous dessert known as the "Cannoli Siciliani" . The cannoli are crunchy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta filling and simply delicious. Sicily exports home-made sweet almond biscuits - legacies of Arab occupation-- to customers throughout Europe.
Included: Then we will relax at an outdoor café and sample the gelato (ice cream); espresso, cappuccino, and Sicilian Pastries.
Group Lunch in Old Town (not included).
More couple exercises to deepen your emotional and spiritual connection.
4:30 pm The old town comes back to life as shops and restaurants, bars and pasticceria's re-open on "Via Atenea" and people come out for their traditional evening stroll. Grace will give you a unique secret "shopping assignment" -- to buy your beloved something he/she would cherish.
Group Dinner in San Leone (not included).Tonight over dinner you will present your gift to your beloved and enjoy lively group discussion.

ERACLEA MINOA, SCALA DEI TURQUI, CERAMICS IN CALTAGIRONE & TRANSFER TO SYRACUSE

Breakfast Included
9:30am: This morning we leave Agrigento and head slightly west towards the coastal communities of ERACLEA MINOA and SCALA DEI TURQUI before going southeast towards Syracuse. In Eraclea Minoa you'll visit the ancient theatre and then the spectacular beach said to be one of the most beautiful on the Mediterranean. Then we proceed to a natural wonder--the Scala dei Turqui, "Turquish Steps". White calcified rock rises up from the sea to create a unique backdrop for the blue of the sky and sea. Over time, wind and water have eroded the hills into natural "steps". Spend some time hiking these hills, go for a romantic stroll, swim and enjoy the inspiring sourroundings.
Before we head east towards CALTAGIRONE, Sicily's Ceramics Capital, we will make a roadstop for lunch. Sicily has many lovely delli's and cafe's serving panini (buns stuffed with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella cheese and grilled veggies). Our driver will suggest a place he knows.
Visit a Ceramics Factory in Caltagirone: In about the year 1000 BC, the Cretan trading partners of the Siculi introduced to Sicily the use of the potter's wheel. Since then, the development of the ceramist's art was provided by the Instituto d'Arte per la Ceramica founded in 1918 by Don Luigi Sturzo. Watch a ceramic making demonstration, and tour the factory. Later, you'll have a chance to shop for lovely ceramics at wholesale prices!
5pm We continue southeast towards SYRACUSE. In the fascinating historic centre, on the islet of ORTIGIA, stands our hotel, the amazing HOTEL ALLA GIUDECCA, click here, a most unique and romantic residence dating back to the Middle Ages. Its basement contains the most important Miqwè in Europe (ritual purification baths of the Jews) dating from the Byzantine period. Within the old walls of this building, couples are welcomed to an atmospheric ambience. This hotel has spacious and elegantly furnished rooms. A truly extraordinary place.
Leisure time for check-in and relaxation.
Tonight in Syracuse, enjoy a "passeggiata" (walk) to get acquainted with this ancient town. Then find the perfect restaurant for your evening's meal. Dine alone or invite some new friends along from the retreat. Whatever you do, the ambience of ancient Syracuse will dazzle you.

EXPLORING THE CITY OF SYRACUSE & WALKING TOUR OF ORTYGIA ISLAND

Breakfast included
9:00 am: This morning you’ll understand why no visit to Sicily is complete without visiting Syracuse and why travel editors around the world have called this the most beautiful place in all of Europe.
Our private driver picks us up this morning, along with our English speaking Guide and we set off for a bus tour of Syracuse and surrounding area. The Guide will describe the historic significance of Syracuse. You will hear how the Romans captured Syracuse in 212 BC, although the defenses of the city had been strengthened by the machines of the Greek inventor Archimedes. Under Roman rule Syracuse declined, but continued to be the capital and first city of Sicily. Captured, pillaged, and burned by the Saracens in AD 878, the city then sank into decay.
There will be stops at the Greek theatre where you'll get to climb the serried seats of this ancient marvel in which 16,000 people once watched the first performances of plays by Sophocles, Euripides and Aeschylus.
A few hours later the tour continues on foot through ancient Ortigia, which is really an island connected to the mainland by a few unobtrusive bridges. This offshore island was occupied by the Greek colonists who fortified it and constructed the earliest structures, including the temples of Athena and Apollo, whose remains can still be seen today. Wind your way along the Via del Labirinto - Labyrinth Street - and into the narrow streets of the Jewish quarter back to our hotel.
Group Lunch Included Relax and enjoy a delicious lunch at a beautiful outdoor restaurant in Ortigia, near our hotel. Grace will give you a few more relationship exercises and lead a lively group discussion.
Late afternoon & Evening: Leisure time. This is your time to spend as you wish. Relax back at our hotel or continue exploring ancient Ortigia on your own. Find the perfect restaurant for your meal tonight and connect heart to heart on this romantic island.

LEISURE DAY IN BEAUTIFUL SICILY

Breakfast Included.
Today, on your last day on this Mediterranean island, the day and night is yours to spend anyway you like. You may wish to renew your vows, or get married even. Let us know and we'll help you with the arrangements.
The island of Ortygia (Old Syracuse) is perfect. It’s hot, but has a lovely breeze coming off the sea. You can catch a boat across the bay to a beach or you can wander about the narrow streets and explore the many cathedrals and medieval castles.
You may also wish to visit the Museo Archeologico Paolo Orsi , which is the most extensive archaeological museum in Sicily, with its wide collection of fossils and figures of Ancient Siracusa including the famous statue "Venus Anadiomene," in which Venus rises from the sea.
And make a stop at the Catacombs of St. John (Catacombe di San Giovanni)
which are a maze of eerie tunnels niched with early Christian tombs.
Or you may shop for last minute souvenirs for loved ones back home.

8:00 pm FAREWELL DINNER INCLUDED—Tonight, we will enjoy another spectacular dinner at one of Syracuse’s most characteristic restaurants. Tonight, you'll be able to share your favourite memories of Sicily with your new friends. A three course meal complete with wine (of course) and dessert is planned for your last night on this romantic island.

GOOD BYE SICILY: TRANSFER TO CATANIA AIRPORT

Buffet Breakfast included at your hotel
Group Transfer to the Catania airport for your international flight home or your next Italian/European destination.

TO REGISTER PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE ASAP 905-688-0868. Limited Space. Please register as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

This is not a packaged tour, but uniquely designed for the discriminating traveler with "high end" accommodations, personalized service and a focus on enhancing your relationship while traveling to create a spectacular and unforgettable experience.
Enjoy informative educational programs, featuring the insight of local experts, and historians to enhance your appreciation of this magical island.
September is considered "high season" in Sicily. Please register ASAP to avoid disappointment!
Absolute deadline for booking is June 30th, 2006
If you would like more information feel free to contact Grace Cirocco directly at 905-688-0868 or email info@gracecirocco.com

To inquire about cost per person for this 5 Star Vacation Reteat: Sicily 11 days/10 nights based on double occupancy e-mail info@gracecirocco.com

TO REGISTER PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE ASAP 905-688-0868. Limited Space. Please register as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

More Information on Sicily and the Italian Way:

SHOPS & most businesses are open from 9am - 1:30 pm and 4:30pm to 8:30pm every day. Everything comes to a stand still during mid-day 1:30-4:30. This is when Italians enjoy their main meal of the day + rest, relaxation and family time.
Restaurants open after shops have closed (After 8:30pm )
Currency is the Euro. $1.00 EURO = $1.48 CDN

Valid passport is required

CALL 905-688-0868 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.

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