Week 1 Flavors of Sicily: A Cultural Journey with Juliet

Welcome to the Adventure!

Each day of this retreat will be filled with amazing experiences, but what is the exact schedule? Well, that’s where a little Italian spontaneity comes in! The itinerary gives you a great idea of how the days will flow, but we may adjust things based on the group's rhythm, the weather, and any exciting opportunities that come our way. Josh and/or Katrina will guide the experience, balancing their time between leading incredible sessions and soaking in the magic of Sicily with you. Don’t worry—we’ll make sure every moment counts. And hey, we’re in Italy! Flexibility is part of the fun. So, relax, soak it all in, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Morning/Afternoon: Your journey begins as you arrive in Sicily, stepping off the plane and into a world of breathtaking beauty. From there, you’ll be whisked away to your private retreat center, nestled on 65 acres of lush, serene land—your personal paradise waiting to embrace you.

After a restful night, ease into the gentle rhythm of Sicily with a morning designed for unhurried tranquility. Choose your own path to restoration:

• Reconnect with Nature: Set out on a meditative walk through 62 acres of private parkland nestled in the heart of the Madonie Mountains, just minutes from Gangi—celebrated as the “Most Beautiful Village in Italy.” Stroll along wooded trails or wander beside the private riverbanks, soaking in the raw beauty and quiet stillness of this secluded paradise.

• Savor the Stillness: Prefer to stay close and sleep in? Embrace the serenity of the property itself. Read and sip herbal tea in the tea lounge or by the outdoor pool, or let the morning pass gently around you—this haven was made for slow living.
   

• Discover Petralia Soprana: For those drawn to explore, join us for a short 20-minute ride to Petralia Soprana, perched high in the Madonie Mountains. With sweeping views over Sicily’s rolling countryside, this enchanting hilltop town invites you to wander its cobblestone streets and experience the timeless charm of authentic Sicilian life. In 2018, it was crowned "Borgo dei Borghi"—Italy’s most beautiful village.

Whichever path you choose, this day is designed to help you reconnect with yourself, nature, and the simple pleasures of slowing down.

Afternoon: 

In the golden light of the afternoon, roll up your sleeves and step into the kitchen with a local Sicilian chef for an intimate cooking class. This hands-on experience invites you to uncover the secrets of authentic Sicilian cuisine—learning cherished family recipes, mastering essential techniques, and bringing the vibrant flavors of the island to life.

Together, you’ll prepare a traditional dish with heart and history, turning local ingredients into a delicious expression of culture and connection.

Evening:
Finally, sit down with your fellow travelers for a cozy, communal dinner where you’ll savor the dishes you’ve lovingly prepared. Each bite will be a taste of Sicily—rich with love, tradition, and the magic of shared experiences. This day will leave you feeling nourished, both in body and spirit. Enjoy the celebration of gathering old and new friends and share a delicious, healthy meal under the stars. 

Morning: After a delicious breakfast, we’ll head to the picturesque fishing village of Cefalù, where cobblestone streets and seaside charm await. Stroll through the historic old town, relax on the golden beach, and marvel at the impressive Norman Cathedral, a striking symbol of Sicily’s rich heritage.

 

Afternoon: We’ll gather for a leisurely seaside lunch, savoring local specialties with stunning ocean views. Afterwards, enjoy a coastal walk along the Lungomare, then explore artisan shops offering ceramics, woven goods, and sweet local treats. We’ll end the day at a scenic farewell viewpoint by the sea—or, if you prefer a slower pace, spend the afternoon simply lounging on the beach and soaking in the beauty of Cefalù.

 

Evening: After a full day of exploration and indulgence, return to the retreat for a peaceful evening. Unwind, reflect, and let the tranquil rhythm of Sicily settle over you. This day promises to fill your heart with beauty, history, and unforgettable flavors.

Morning: Begin your day with meditation in the yoga room or practice your own yoga, designed to refresh and rejuvenate your body and mind. In the peaceful, natural surroundings of the retreat center, let the soothing rhythm of each breath connect you with the serenity of Sicily’s landscape.

 Afternoon: After finding your inner peace, dive into the art of traditional pasta-making. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the timeless techniques behind creating fresh, delicious pasta from scratch. Feel the satisfaction of working with your hands as you craft authentic dishes, infused with the flavors of Sicily.

 Evening: At the end of the day, gather with fellow travelers to enjoy the fruits of your labor—a communal dinner filled with the pasta you’ve lovingly prepared. Every bite will remind you of the joy of creating something truly special. This day will nourish your body, your spirit, and your soul.
 

Choose Your Own Adventure: Wellness or Exploration

Today is yours to shape—whether you feel called to rest, reflect, or roam.

You may choose to stay at the retreat for a peaceful Wellness Day or take one of two unforgettable optional excursions that will take you deeper into Sicily's richness.

Option 1: Wellness Day at the Retreat
Let your morning unfold slowly, wrapped in quiet and care. Sleep in if you’d like—there’s no rush here. Ease into the day with gentle movement, meditation, or a soothing massage. You might wander the secret garden paths, find stillness by the river, or read on the terrace overlooking the valley. As the sun rises, take a refreshing swim in the infinity pool—float, breathe, and simply be.

Option 2: Day Trip to Palermo

Departs at 7:30 AM  (Travel Time is Two Hours Each Way) 
For those ready to dive into Sicily’s vibrant capital, join us on a guided exploration of Palermo—a city pulsing with culture, history, and flavor. You’ll visit highlights like Teatro Massimo, Capo Market, Palermo Cathedral, and its lively piazzas.

For lunch, enjoy an optional meal at MoltiVolti, a social enterprise restaurant supporting refugees through hospitality training. Hear their story, enjoy a globally inspired meal, and know that Travel Impactful will make a donation on your behalf to support their mission.

In the afternoon, stroll by the cathedral or stop for artisanal gelato before returning to the retreat center in time for a relaxing dinner with the group.

 

Morning: Today, we’ll venture into the heart of the Madonie Mountains to explore the medieval town of Castelbuono. Wander through charming cobblestone streets, where ancient architecture stands as a testament to centuries of history. Visit the Castle of Ventimiglia, a striking symbol of the town’s rich past, and lose yourself in its timeless beauty.
 

Morning: Today, we’ll journey to Gangi, a hidden gem perched high in the hills and often hailed as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. As you explore, admire its ancient stone buildings, steeped in history, and take in panoramic views that stretch across the rolling Sicilian countryside. Gangi is also known for its artistic heritage, where every corner feels like a work of art.

Afternoon: Take time to wander through the village at your own pace, visiting historic landmarks and soaking in the beauty of this serene, enchanting place. Mid-afternoon, we’ll gather for a local organic wine tasting experience, sampling a curated selection of natural Sicilian wines paired with regional bites. Meet the passionate producers and learn about the traditional, sustainable methods behind each bottle—a delicious and meaningful way to connect with the land and its story.

Evening: After a day of discovery, return to the retreat for a peaceful evening. Reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy another delicious Sicilian dinner, the perfect way to end a day of beauty and connection. Gangi’s timeless elegance will stay with you long after the journey ends.

A Bittersweet Farewell—Until We Meet Again

You won’t want to leave this paradise. The breathtaking landscapes, the soul-nourishing food, the deep connections forged with incredible new friends, and the quality time shared with Josh and Katrina—these moments have become part of you. The peace and stillness of the retreat center, the laughter over shared meals, the magic of Sicily wrapping itself around your heart… it’s hard to say goodbye.

But don’t worry—this isn’t the end. We’ll be inviting you to our next unforgettable destination. And when you return home, bring your beautiful memories with you. When you tell your friends at Juliet about the adventure they missed, they’ll wish they had joined you. Lucky for them, they’ll learn quickly not to make the same mistake twice. Next time, they’ll be the ones rushing to sign up!

The Bonus?

The next time you walk into Juliet, Josh and Katrina will call you by name. You are now part of their story—forever woven into the magic of their first-ever Founders Trip to Sicily, Italy. They will never forget the special moments you created, the inspiration you sparked, and the energy you brought to this journey. In fact, the very menu at Juliet was born from this experience, infused with the flavors, the memories, and the magic of Sicily.

Morning: A Final Moment in Paradise

After a week of extraordinary experiences, start your last morning with a peaceful breakfast, allowing yourself to soak in every last bit of the journey. As you pack your bags, know that while you may be leaving Sicily, Sicily will never leave you.

Your transfers will be arranged to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey home. And as you take one final glance at this magical place, you’ll realize—this is not goodbye. It’s simply until next time.

Because once you’ve been here, Sicily becomes a part of you.

Imagine stepping into sun-drenched Sicily, where every meal tells a story, every sip is a celebration, and every moment is rich with tradition. The scent of citrus drifts through the air, waves kiss the golden shores, and the rhythm of life slows to something deeper, something unforgettable.

Now, join Chef Josh Lewin and Social Entrepreneur Katrina Jazayeri, co-founders of Juliet + Company, on an exclusive journey through Northern Sicily, one of their greatest sources of culinary inspiration. Their celebrated Somerville restaurant, Juliet, was built on the spirit of travel and discovery—and now, they’re inviting you to experience it firsthand.

 

Few chefs craft a story through food like Josh Lewin. A world-traveling culinary storyteller and mentor, Josh has honed his craft in some of the country’s most prestigious kitchens, from No. 9 Park and Momofuku to the Michelin-starred Atelier Crenn. As the co-founder of Juliet + Company, his artistry and global perspective bring depth and connection to every meal.

For Josh, food is more than technique—it’s immersion, tradition, and bringing people together. Whether grilling over an open fire in Argentina or mastering the flavors of Sicily, he is constantly chasing the deeper meaning behind every dish.

On this retreat, cook alongside Josh, explore hidden culinary gems, and rediscover the magic of food, culture, and connection. This is your chance to experience Sicily through the eyes of a chef who transforms every meal into an unforgettable journey.

 Limited spots available—join Josh in Sicily! 

A visionary in hospitality and sustainability, Katrina Jazayeri has redefined what it means to create meaningful, mission-driven dining experiences. As the founder of Juliet + Company, she blends her background in social justice, engineering, and public health into a culinary philosophy that champions fair wages, equity, and sustainability—earning her recognition as one of Zagat Boston’s 30 Under 30 and an Eater Legacy Award recipient.

With a deep expertise in wine curation, service, and immersive hospitality, Katrina will guide you through Sicily’s rich traditions, secret recipes, and vibrant food culture. Whether you’re sipping rare vintages in a sun-drenched vineyard, learning from local artisans, or indulging in leisurely meals that tell a story, her passion for food and people will transform this journey into something unforgettable.

 Join Katrina in Sicily and experience the magic of food, culture, and connection. 

Candice Lam is a global explorer, social entrepreneur, and founder of Travel Impactful, travel company that weaves together personal transformation, cultural immersion, and meaningful connection. Her journey began in the boardrooms of Boston, where she led philanthropic initiatives as a CPA. But after years of chasing success, Candice chose to redefine it—leaving behind the corporate world to create experiences that don’t just offer escape, but awakening.

Her retreats invite you to travel with purpose. To slow down. To reconnect—with local communities, like-hearted travelers, and the parts of yourself that too often get lost in everyday life.

Candice believes that travel is one of the most powerful tools for joy, growth, and finding your people. In a world that moves fast, her work invites you to linger—to connect with yourself, nature, and the soul of each place you visit. To listen deeply. To leave each place better than you found it—and return home more rooted than ever.
This is more than a vacation. It’s a return to yourself. Are you ready?

• Visa to Italy (Please check the task list once you book)
• Flights: From anywhere to the retreat center in Sicily, Italy
• Travel insurance (required for peace of mind and financial protection in case of last-minute trip cancellations due to emergencies). We're happy to assist you with the process.
• Supplements: Airport transfers outside of our pickup time frame, personal transportation and excursions, meat request at the retreat center, meals outside the retreat center, personal coaching hour with trip leaders, massage treatments, bar tabs, personal spending money, and any activities not mentioned as included.

 

Spots are limited, and they’re filling fast. Reserve your place today and immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey of food, wine, and culture before it’s too late!

See the invoice page for more details.

This package provides a perfect mix of relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration in Sicily.

This exclusive retreat package is available for just $3,300, already reflecting a limited-time early bird discount of $1,000 or more per spot. Book now before prices go up!

BOOK IT NOW WITH THIS EARLY BIRD SPECIAL!
 

 

This retreat is an unforgettable experience—but it’s even better when shared! Reach out to a friend, an old connection, or someone in your community who would love this journey with you. Sharing a cottage means late-night chats, laughter, and creating beautiful memories together.

If you can’t find a roommate to share a cottage, don’t worry—we’re happy to help match you with a like-minded traveler of the same gender so you can make new friendships along the way!

Optional excursions are not included in the retreat price. The cost will be confirmed based on the number of participants and the size of the vehicle required. Payment can be made in local currency upon confirmation or via Travel Impactful.