The Idyllic Island of Ischia
April 25th - May 1st, 2024
Are you yearning for an unforgettable adventure that combines massage education, rejuvenating experiences, and exciting adventures?
If so, we've got the perfect retreat for you!
But before we share the incredible details of this massage education vacation, imagine this...
You're standing on a mountainside overlooking one of Italy's most renowned thermal spas. The scene before you is nothing short of breathtaking - Ischia's picturesque coastline stretches out like a meticulously crafted painting, captivating your senses.
You have just wandered through lush greenery and a labyrinth of inviting thermal pools, each one strategically arranged to allow the warm waters to cascade from one to another in a soothing symphony.
The sparkling water beckons, inviting you to embark on your own journey of relaxation and rejuvenation in this idyllic oasis of calm.
You lower your body into the jetted pool and allow the soothing ambiance to transport you to a state of pure tranquility.
You now understand why the act of bathing in the thermal waters in Ischia is not merely a physical experience. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with oneself, to find solace in the embrace of nature's healing powers, and to emerge renewed and refreshed.
Ahhh...doesn't that sound amazing?
I hope this little imaginative journey will inspire you to consider giving yourself an incredible gift: a magical escape to the island of Ischia in Southern Italy!
And the best part about joining us? For once, there’s nothing to plan or manage. Every little detail has been carefully orchestrated so you can just sit back and enjoy the freedom that comes with not being in charge.
INTRODUCING…
The Idyllic Island of Ischia
with James & Fran Waslaski
Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes...including you.
~ Anne Lamott
Do any of these sound like you?
✔ You spend most of your time taking care of others
✔ It’s been forever since you’ve given yourself permission to do something utterly fabulous
✔ You’ve been dreaming about taking an adventure “one day”
✔ You can’t remember the last time you laughed until your sides hurt
Yes? Perfect, then you're in the right place! 🙌
Here's a sample of what you can expect:
Cutting Edge Training
Prepare to open your mind, expand your practice and change the lives of those you treat!
This retreat features brand new training on Manual Therapy Techniques for Musculoskeletal Pain Relief. More detailed information about the training is coming soon...
Note: attendance is mandatory in order to earn 12 NCBTMB CE hours.
Exciting Adventures
This is a high-vibe retreat and we have lots of fun adventures in store for you! Learn ~ Laugh ~ Live was designed for those of you who want to see and do as much as possible during your time in Italy.
We'll explore the historic Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a rocky islet and wander through charming villages, discovering quaint streets, local shops and traditional architecture. You'll have free time to explore the island's picturesque trails or hop on a ferry and venture to the nearby island of Capri, a Mediterranean gem that's renowned for its beauty and timeless charm. We'll also indulge in one of the island's world-renowned thermal spas, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters. 💦🌿
And what’s great about all the activity…you won’t feel guilty for one minute eating all that yummy pasta and gelato we'll be indulging in along the way! 😋 🍧 🍝
Delectable Cuisine
Prepare your palette for a culinary experience like none other! Ischia features the freshest seafood, locally grown produce and savory pasta dishes.
You’ll have the opportunity to sample Linguine alle Vongole, a pasta dish prepared with fresh tomatoes and clams as well as Coniglio all' Ischitana, a tender rabbit stew simmered in white wine and herbs.Your sweet tooth will delight in the array of pastries and desserts, such as Lingue di Procida, a light, crunchy biscuit that pairs perfectly with limoncello, the island’s signature liqueur.
And don’t stress if you’re a vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or have any other dietary restrictions. We promise to make sure you have plenty of choices. One thing is for certain...you'll never go hungry!
Fabulous Friendships
Remember heading off to camp or inviting friends over for sleep-overs when you were a kid? Weren't those moments fun? Well, we think you’re never too old to gather for an adventure that inspires your "inner child!"
Are you a little competitive? Join us for an entertaining version of the Italy Island Trivia or our selfie scavenger hunt. We’ve planned lots of activities to help you get back in touch with your silly side! 😂
This whole week is designed to give you plenty of time to visit with old friends or make new ones. If you’re craving a little alone time, head out for a hike on the beach or simply lay by the pool and watch the clouds drift overhead. Whether you come on this retreat with a friend or make a few while you are here, you’ll never feel alone (unless you want to be alone) and you’ll never be left out. 🤗
Meet Your Hosts:
We are SO excited you are considering joining us in Ischia! We promise you won’t regret investing in this gift to yourself. 😍
James Waslaski, Your Massage Mentor
James integrates over 30 years of expertise in manual and sports therapies to enhance the education and patient outcomes for all manual therapists. He has pioneered new protocols for pain-free orthopedic massage, pain management, sports injury, and sports enhancement treatments.
A published author, renowned international lecturer and approved NCBTMB provider, James was inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2008 and awarded teacher of the year at the Canadian Massage Conference in 2012 and the World Massage Festival in 2015.
James teaches his cutting-edge seminars throughout the world. In addition to working with collegiate, professional and Olympic athletes, he has taught massage therapists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, athletic trainers, osteopaths, chiropractors, nurses and physicians.
Fran Waslaski, Your Fun Facilitator
Fran has been a licensed massage therapist in Florida and Texas for over 25 years. She and James met at her very first massage conference in 1995. Since then, she’s owned her own clinic as well as worked in a variety of settings, including spas and chiropractic offices.
Fran is currently the office manager at The Center For Pain Management and handles all the accounting. She helps organize and run the seminar business alongside her husband, James.
Prior to becoming a massage therapist, Fran was a professional dancer, performing in musicals, dance companies and on cruise ships. She still loves to dance (and teach others), so when you hear the music pumping, grab your dancing shoes! 💃 🕺
Linda Beach, Your Retreat Concierge
Linda has been a massage therapist and CE instructor for over 30 years. She met James way back in the early 90's and was at the event where he met his lovely wife, Fran. ❤️
In 1998, Linda opened a chain of massage & esthetic schools in South Carolina and hosted James for CE classes many times. She sold her schools in 2016 to work from her laptop while she travels the world hosting retreats and teaching others how to create a business they don’t need a vacation from. 🌎 ✈️
Linda loves the island of Ischia and has been there six times! She's so excited to be facilitating this retreat for James and Fran and showing YOU all the beauty this region of Italy has to offer.
Currently living in beautiful Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Linda loves spending time with her rescue pup, her 3 grown “kids” and brand new grandsons, Luca and Charlie. 🥰
Check out this incredible itinerary!
Day 1: April 25th
Arrive into Italy and make your way by train and ferry to Ischia. Once there, we’ll collect you at the port and take you to our lovely hotel, located on a hill overlooking the beautiful bay of San Montano. You'll love exploring the sunny pavement cafes and sherbet-colored shops in the nearby towns.
After you settle into your room and take a well-deserved rest, we’ll gather for a sumptuous welcome feast. You’ll get to know your fellow retreat participants while we review the itinerary for the incredible week ahead.
Meals included: dinner
Day 2: April 26th
We’ll start the day with a delicious breakfast and then gather for our first class. James will introduce you to the first of several hands-on techniques you'll be learning this week.
After class, we’ll head out to the picturesque town of Ischia Ponte. You'll have time to enjoy lunch in a quaint seaside cafe or check out the boutique shops. Next we'll cross a picturesque stone bridge and enter the enchanting Castello Aragonese d'Ischia, where history and beauty converge in a dramatic seaside setting.
Once inside the castle's imposing walls, we'll explore secret passages, lush gardens and fortified towers. The history of this ancient fortress is fascinating! Be prepared to be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea on one side and the mountains on the other.
After our visit to the castle, you’ll have free time back at the hotel to relax and enjoy the pool and lush grounds before we regroup for dinner. Ahhh…what a great way to kick off our time together!
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Day 3: April 27th
After a bountiful breakfast, we’ll start our day with another illuminating hands-on class. Then pack your beach bag and grab your sunscreen because we're heading out on a spa adventure! 💦🌿
We're off to Poseidon Terme, the largest thermal park on the island of Ischia, with highly curative thermal waters that feed over twenty pools with temperatures ranging from 82° F to 104° F.
You’ll have the entire afternoon to explore the grounds, which cascade down the verdant mountainside and overlook the beautiful Bay of Citara. When you’re not soaking in a jetted pool, relax under one of the raffia parasols lining the private beach or work up a sweat in the thermal steam grotto. Just make sure to take a refreshing dip in the icy Kneipp bath afterwards. It aids circulation…promise! 🥶😅
As the sun slips into the sea, we’ll enjoy a delectable dinner at our hotel. I’m confident our day at Poseidon will forever hold place in your heart as the ultimate relaxation escape.
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Day 4: April 28th
Put on your walking shoes because we’re off to explore the colorful island of Procida! After a filling breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic ferry ride to this tiny neighboring island, where we’ll wander Procida's narrow streets and discover its hidden gems around every corner.
Our first stop with be Marina Grande, a captivating town filled with charming boutiques and winding streets. From there we’ll walk to the most incredible vantage point, where you’ll witness a panorama of pastel-colored houses cascading across the landscape. We’ll descend down the hill into Marina Corricella, where fishermen painted their houses in different colors so that they could recognize them from the sea.
We'll enjoy a refreshing gelato in the postcard-inspiring harbor adorned with fishing boats and lively cafes. Afterwards, you’ll have time to explore on your own. Royal palace, secluded beach, 11th century abbey, lively shopping trip…the island is yours to discover!
Once we return to our hotel in Ischia, we'll enjoy a hearty dinner as a group. Then feel free to wind down this incredible day any way you choose.
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Day 5: April 29th
After breakfast, we're back in the classroom for more hands-on technique. Today’s class is going to be illuminating with lots of practice time.
After class, you’ll get to choose today’s adventure! We’ll have options for every taste, including an invigorating hike to the top of Monte Epomeo, with the most incredible sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and the island's picturesque coastline.
If you’d like another spa day, we’ll take you to Negombo with 22 acres of lush greenery, thermal pools and a private beach. If you're up for something more adventurous, visit Terme di Cavascura, a thermal bath complex set inside volcanic stone caves! You might choose to spend the day at the beach, combing the sands for smooth fragments of pottery (Italy’s version of sea glass!) between sips of your refreshing spritz. Or simply stay at the hotel and relax by the pool.
Whatever you decide, we’ll gather back together for dinner so we can all share stories of the day’s adventures.
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Day 6: April 30th
Rise and shine! Today is our last day of hands-on class, where all the fabulous techniques you’ve learned this week will come together. I hope you’re proud of yourself because we are! 🙌
Now get ready for a final escapade. After class, we’ll be visiting our favorite towns around the island. First up is Forio, know for its winding cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere. The town's historic center is a treasure trove of ancient churches, such as the stunning Chiesa del Soccorso, adorned with colorful majolica tiles. Stumble upon hidden piazzas, lively cafes, and local artisan shops offering unique handmade ceramics and souvenirs. We’ll make sure to visit Torrione, a medieval tower offering panoramic views of the town and the shimmering sea.
Next we’ll head to Sant'Angelo, a delightful little village nestled on the southern coast. This picture-worthy destination will captivate you with its pedestrian-only streets, quaint shops and bustling harbor. Finally, we’ll browse the streets of Lacco Ameno, a quaint little seaside town known for its elegant waterfront promenade. Wait until you watch the sun set over Il Fungo, the famed "mushroom rock" just off the coast of this quaint little town. Incredible! 🍄
When we return to the hotel, freshen up and then join the group for our farewell dinner. Expect hugs, tears, laughter and a surprise or two!
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Day 7: May 1st
Today is the day you start your journey back to the “real” world. We’ll gather at breakfast for our final farewells before you take the ferry back to Naples for your onward journey. If you’ve chosen to extend your stay in Italy, we'd be happy to offer suggestions on where to explore next.
While it’s always sad to say goodbye, this isn’t the end of our time together. We’ll see each other in our private Facebook group to share photos and stories. You’ll have made unforgettable memories and some new friends to help remind you that life is short so never ever stop exploring!
Arrivederci!
Meals included: breakfast
Our Beautiful Accommodations...
A Serene Island Retreat
Nestled on a hilltop overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea lies a charming boutique hotel that will be our home away from home. From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the elegant charm of the villa's architecture, inspired by Mediterranean influences that seamlessly merge with the island's breathtaking landscapes.
The hotel’s motto is "You enter as guests, you leave as friends" and that’s exactly what you’ll experience during your time at this lovely oasis!
The on-site restaurant showcases the traditional cuisine of Ischia. Every dish is made with locally-sourced ingredients and herbs and vegetables grown in the hotel’s organic farm.
The rooms are bright and cheerful and come equipped with a desk, private bathroom and complementary toiletries. On the property you’ll find a rooftop deck with jacuzzi (and amazing panoramic views 😍), an indoor swimming pool with thermal water and hydromassage, a Turkish bath with natural steam and a full service spa.
A stay at our host hotel promises to be an unforgettable immersion into the beauty and serenity that Ischia is celebrated for!
Check Out These Bonuses!
Travel Planning
It can be overwhelming trying to find the best flight routes (and prices!) and figure out where to stay pre & post retreat. You'll likely need help with train and ferry schedules too. Take advantage of Linda Beach's expertise with Italy travel by hopping on a Zoom call with her!
Pre-Trip Happy Hours
Before our big adventure, we'll host monthly group calls to discuss our exciting plans and get to know each other. Not only will you be prepared for the journey ahead, but once we join together for our Welcome Dinner, it’ll be like meeting up with old friends!
Private Facebook Group
As soon as you register, you’ll be invited to join our private group where you can meet your travel companions and find the perfect roommate. We'll be sharing travel tips and other important information about the Idyllic Island of Ischia Retreat!
Want to share this adventure with your partner, bestie or favorite family member?
We have set aside a very limited number of spaces for your PLUS ONE to join you.
They must register at the same time as you do. Your Plus One does not have to attend the training workshop (more pool time! 😎) but will be able to participate in everything else we have planned.
🤍 YES TO A PLUS ONE! 🤍
VIP Upgrade!
Spend the day at a luxurious spa with James & Fran PLUS receive an entire set of training videos and other goodies!
Here's what we have in store for those who upgrade to VIP*:
✅ A super fun spa adventure
✅ Pampering spa treatment
✅ Gourmet lunch with James & Fran
✅ Complete set of James' massage DVD
✅ Room upgrade (based on availability)
✅ Surprise goodie bag
*Only $497 per person. Limited to 8 upgrades.
Double Occupancy: Massage Therapist
$2897
Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available)
REGISTER NOWTriple Occupancy: Massage Therapist
$2697
Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available)
REGISTER NOWDouble OR Triple: Plus One*
$2697
Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available)
REGISTER NOWGot Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
How is this different than a typical CE training?
Please explain the sleeping situation!
Can I bring my partner, family member or friend?
What if I can't afford a trip to Italy?
I can't take the time away from my family and my practice!
I don't know how I feel about traveling with a group of strangers.
I'm stressed thinking about all the activities. Will I have any time to myself?
Do I have to be physically fit for this retreat?
Which airport do I fly into? How do I get to Ischia?
Can I arrive early or stay longer?
What about travel restrictions?
What will the weather be like in Ischia in May?
What is the cancellation policy?
I have more questions and want to talk with someone personally.
Hurry, this retreat will fill up fast! Grab your spot today.
Take me to my options. I'm already packing! 🧳🎒
The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for a newer and richer experience.
~Eleanor Roosevelt
Would you like to know more about this amazing journey?
We get it, we're excited too! Our retreat concierge, Linda Beach, would love to hop on a call and answer any questions you might have! Just click the button below...⬇️
Let's chat!