An Italian Adventure with James & Fran Waslaski

October 12-18, 2023

San Gimignano, Italy

Day in and day out, you care for others. Isn’t it about time you did something absolutely amazing for yourself? If you’re ready to expand your horizons, ignite your senses and nourish your inner healer, this retreat is for you!

Before we share all the juicy details of this unforgettable opportunity, I want you to imagine this…

You're gathered around a sparkling azure pool, surrounded by a lively group of colleagues and fun new friends. 

In the distance you can see the towers of the medieval town of San Gimignano surrounded by sweeping views of the Tuscan hillside.

Everyone is sharing their favorite highlights of yet another amazing day. It started with learning new massage techniques, then continued with a fun Vespa adventure. Now it’s winding down with enlightening conversation and laughter.

As you look around and take in this idyllic scene, you realize that your adventure in Tuscany is just beginning.

Tomorrow you’ll be diving deeper into new practice techniques. After that, you’ll be whisked away to explore a medieval town and sip some of the finest wines of the region.

In fact, the whole week is dedicated to learning, laughing, exploring and experiencing the very best of Italy with a fun group of creative, passionate people.

For once, there’s absolutely nothing to plan or manage. Every little detail has been carefully arranged so you can just sit back and enjoy the freedom that comes with not being in charge. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect retreat? We thought so!

Okay, hands up if you agree that the last couple of years have been unimaginably weird🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️

 

There’s been WAY too much adulting!

 

We hereby declare that it’s time to get back to living in the moment and having unforgettable adventures!

Does any of this sound familiar?

 

✔  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 

We don't stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing ~ George Bernard Shaw

INTRODUCING…

Learn~Laugh~Live

with James & Fran Waslaski 

During our journey together, you will…

  • Learn cutting edge Orthopedic Massage techniques that will help your clients and grow your practice (earn 12 NCBTMB CE's)
  • Explore awe-inspiring landscapes, quaint medieval villages and natural wonders

  • Eat the most delectable food imaginable without any concern for calories (or the fact you pants might be a wee tight at the end of the week)
  • Focus on immersing yourself in the present moment as you soak in all the sights and sounds of this ancient land
  • Make fun new friends who will encourage you to practice those Italian words you just learned

Here’s just a taste 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 a brand new training called Quick Manual Therapy Techniques for Musculoskeletal Pain Relief. During our morning sessions, James will teach you his top 3 techniques for treating the most common musculoskeletal pain issues for each area of the body in five minutes or less. 

For more information on this workshop, click here. Note: attendance is mandatory in order to earn 12 NCBTMB CE hours (pending final approval).

Awe-Inspiring Activities

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 Tuscany.

Imagine learning about the production of organic wines at the source (with plenty of sipping) while nibbling fresh-from-the-farm cheeses. 

We'll be zipping around the hilltops of San Gimignano on Vespas and rolling up our sleeves to cook your favorite Italian dishes from scratch (not at the same time mind you 😂 ).

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! 😋 🍧 🍝 

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 Tuscan Grocery Games 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 in the hills 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.

Delectable Cuisine

Prepare your palette for a culinary experience like none other! Italy is famous the world over for its cuisine, and we promise you’ll get to sample plenty of it. From pasta to pizza to melt-in-your-mouth gelato, Italians know food!

A breakfast buffet awaits you each day of the retreat. We’ve also included a number of lunches, dinners and aperitivi (happy hour snacks). However, we want to make sure you have some free time to explore the local restaurants with a friend or two.

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!

Meet Your Hosts:

We are SO excited you are considering joining us in Italy! 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 also designs and manages retreats for her favorite VIP clients, including James & Fran and their upcoming Live~Laugh~Learn Retreat in Tuscany!

Currently living in beautiful Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Linda loves spending time with her rescue pup, her 3 grown “kids” and brand new grandson, Luca. 🥰 

Check out this incredible itinerary!

Day 1: Thursday, October 12th

Arrive by plane into Italy and make your way by train to Florence. From there, you'll be whisked away by our private drivers to San Gimignano, where we’ll be waiting for you with open arms. After you get settled into your room, feel free to unwind, nap or explore the spacious grounds.

That evening, we’ll gather for a fun welcome dinner and review the itinerary for the week. You’ll meet your fellow travelers and together we’ll dedicate the rest of your stay to learning, laughing & living. Then get a good night’s sleep so you’re ready for the grand adventures we have in store for you!

Meals included: dinner

Day 2: Friday, October 13th

We’ll start the day with a bountiful 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're off on a grand adventure! Today we’re heading to Monteriggioni, a thirteenth-century fortress. We’ll enjoy lunch in the town square, after which you'll spend some time exploring this quaint medieval town with its panoramic views of the Sienese countryside. 

Next we'll make our way to our favorite winery to delve into the craft of winemaking and taste the area's best wines. After a tour of the vineyards and grounds, complete with awe-inspiring views, we’ll enjoy a wonderful selection of their most popular wines paired with tasty local delicacies.

After we return to our hotel, you’re welcome to head into town for a light bite or gather with your friends for some fun games. Charades anyone? 🥸😂🥳

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, aperitivo

Day 3: Saturday, October 14th

After a bountiful breakfast at the hotel, we’ll kick off our day with another illuminating hands-on class. Next up we’ll strap on our helmets to explore the Tuscan countryside on Vespas & tuk-tuks.  🛵🛺

While we're zipping around, we’ll make our way to the hilltop town of San Gimignano, where we’ll enjoy a tour of this 13th-century medieval walled village. Lunch will be served al fresco at one of our favorite trattorias. And dessert? World famous gelato of course!

This exciting day will end with a selection of wine and nibbles at a gorgeous local winery. There will be lots of laughter (and maybe even a song or two). 🎶 After we return to our hotel, you’ll be free to wind down the day any way you’d love.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, aperitivo

Day 4: Sunday, October 15th

Let’s start the day with sunrise yoga, followed by another delicious breakfast. Then feel free to enjoy a leisurely walk in the hills, a shopping trip to town or just stay and lounge right by the pool. The choice is yours!

Make sure to be back in time to join one of our favorite chefs for a cooking class extraordinaire. We will unleash your creativity and prepare an entire Tuscan meal with luscious ingredients harvested fresh from the land. Appetizer, pasta, entree and dessert…oh my! Just be sure to get a good night’s sleep because tomorrow is another big day! 💤

Meals included: breakfast, dinner

Day 5: Monday, October 16th

After a filling breakfast, we’ll head back to the classroom for more hands-on technique. Today’s class is going to be illuminating with lots of practice time.

Now grab your walking shoes and camera because we’re off to explore the magical city of Siena with its well-preserved 1,000-year-old wall and rich history of banking. But before we explore Siena’s famous squares and stunning Duomo, we’ll dive into a feast of pasta, soup and other local fare.

Once we’ve had our fill of pasta, history and architecture, we’ll head to the countryside for a guided tour of a family-owned winery. Our favorite wine concierge will show you how the grapes are grown, harvested and bottled and then teach you proper wine tasting techniques as you enjoy cheeses, meats and other goodies.

I doubt you’ll be hungry once we return to our hotel, but if so, you’ll have plenty of options just up the road in San Gimignano. Maybe you’ll take an evening stroll with the locals and end this glorious day with a delectable bowl of gelato! 🍨

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, aperitivo

Day 6: Tuesday, October 17th

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’re heading to the Chianti region to visit our favorite wineries! Lunch will be served between sips while gazing out over the gorgeous green countryside.

Next we’ll take a ride to the hilltop hamlet of Certaldo aboard a mountain-hugging funicular. Once there, you’ll learn about its Etruscan-Roman origins and wander its historic streets. This quiet hamlet is perfect for postcard-suitable photo opportunities!

On the ride home, we’ll split you into teams before a stop at the local Italian market. Get ready to shop for our unique version of “Tuscany Grocery Games!” Return to the villa and prepare for your culinary challenge. Will your team make the best charcuterie board? 🍇🧀🫒

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, aperitivo

Day 7: Wednesday, October 18th

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 our private transport back to Florence. If you’ve chosen to extend your stay in Italy, we’ll be happy to offer suggestions for your onward itinerary. 

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 having fun!

Arriverderci!

Meals included: breakfast

This all sounds amazing! I want to come to Italy...Per favore 🙏

Our Beautiful Accommodations...

Just steps from San Gimignano!

Welcome to our incredible home away from home! Our lovely villa has been carefully restored from a twelfth-century watchtower. Surrounded by old trees and olive groves, the spacious grounds are the perfect place to relax or explore.

The property consists of 24 guest rooms, dining room, meeting room, buffet area and a coffee bar.

Outside you'll find a courtyard, dining area, patio and a pool with stunning views of the town’s medieval towers and verdant countryside. 

Your cozy room is decorated in a classic Tuscan style with A/C and wi-fi and has views of the courtyard or countryside. The modern bathrooms have everything you need, including a hairdryer.

What’s Included

  • 6 nights occupancy in a fabulous Tuscan villa, just outside of the ancient town of San Gimignano. Choice of double, triple or quadruple occupancy (See registration page)*
  • Private ground transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles from our meeting point in Florence and back again
  • Daily breakfasts, brimming with succulent fruits and fresh-baked delights, plus unlimited coffee, tea and water
  • 4 lunches, 2 dinners and 4 antipasti (light meals) prepared from an extensive selection of traditional Italian fare. Yes, we can cater to your dietary restrictions. Trust us, you won’t go hungry! 😋 
  • 12 hours of cutting-edge manual therapy training with industry expert James Waslaski**
  • A spirited tour of the Chianti wine region, including a wine tasting and an excursion to the Etruscan-Roman village of Certaldo.
  • A scenic Vespa adventure through the Tuscan countryside, including stops at San Gimignano and our favorite vineyard (to enjoy lunch and sample the grapes!)
  • An exploration into the hidden treasures of Tuscany, including stops at a family-owned winery and the stunning thirteenth-century fortress town of Monteriggioni.
  • An awe-inspiring visit to the historical city of Siena, complete with a guided walking tour and entrance into the world famous duomo
  • Fun Tuscan specialities cooking class (you get to eat your masterpieces for dinner) 🍝 👨‍🍳
  • Tips for drivers and guides for all group activities
  • Detailed itinerary covering each place we’ll visit, with cultural tips and interesting facts…plus an Italian language “cheat sheet”
  • Complimentary high-speed internet 
  • Incredible conversations, priceless connections and copious laughter
  • Access to our private Retreat Facebook group where we’ll be sharing flight deals, packing tips and cool facts about Italy
  • Valuable bonuses (see below)
  • Surprises, gifts and other delightful extras!

*Hotels and excursions are subject to change in the event of non-availability. Any substitution will be at an equal or greater value.

**Attendance at each class is mandatory in order to receive NCBTMB approved CE credits (approval pending)

I'm in...just give me payment details please!

Bonuses!!

Italian Language Lessons

Let's prepare for the journey ahead by learning some common Italian words and phrases! Our pre-retreat lesson will be conducted via Zoom by our very favorite bi-lingual teachers. You may even learn some hand gestures (and a couple naughty words). 😎😂 

Pre-Trip Happy Hour

Before our big adventure, we’ll hop on a few 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, find the perfect roommate and start getting excited. We'll be sharing travel tips and other important information about the Learn, Laugh, Live adventure!

Pay in Full Bonus

(Value: $350)

Pay in full and get a one-hour 1:1 coaching call with Linda! You are welcome to use this valuable bonus before or after our trip.

I want to come to Italy... Per favore! 🙏

What’s Not Included

  • Your international round-trip flights (we’ve got some great tips on snagging a deal though!)
  • Transportation to our meeting spot in Florence and back to your departure airport
  • Lunches and dinners not listed (we wanted to give you some space to sample the amazing foods of Italy!)
  • Alcoholic beverages, incidentals, laundry, spa services, personal phone calls or other activities not already mentioned
  • Souvenirs and shopping sprees (leave room in your luggage because you won’t believe the shopping in Italy!)
  • Tips for drivers (when not on group excursions), porters, housekeeping, spa, hotel and restaurant staff (Note: many restaurants include a service charge in the final bill (we'll discuss tipping etiquette on our group call)
  • Trip insurance (which we highly recommend!)

Quadruple Occupancy

$2597

Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available!)

selected

  • 6 nights shared occupancy with ensuite baths (4 twin beds)

  • Private ground transportation

  • 6 Breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners, 4 Antipasti

  • 12 CE hours of manual therapy training

  • Exciting excursions throughout Tuscany

  • Fun Tuscan specialities cooking class

  • Private Facebook group, Zoom sessions, tips, gifts, surprises & more!

GET ON THE WAITLIST

Triple Occupancy

$2697

Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available!)

selected

  • 6 nights shared occupancy with ensuite bath (3 twin beds)

  • Private ground transportation

  • 6 Breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners, 4 Antipasti

  • 12 CE hours of manual therapy training

  • Exciting excursions throughout Tuscany

  • Fun Tuscan specialities cooking class

  • Private Facebook group, Zoom sessions, tips, gifts, surprises & more!

GET ON THE WAITLIST

Double Occupancy

$2997

Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available!)

selected

  • 6 nights shared occupancy with ensuite bath (1 king or 2 twin beds)

  • Private ground transportation

  • 6 Breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners, 4 Antipasti

  • 12 CE hours of manual therapy training

  • Exciting excursions throughout Tuscany

  • Fun Tuscan specialities cooking class

  • Private Facebook group, Zoom sessions, tips, gifts, surprises & more!

GET ON THE WAITLIST

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*:

 Entrance to a beautiful thermal spa

✅ Lunch & spa time with James & Fran

✅ Relaxing spa treatment

✅ Complete set of James' massage DVD

✅ Room upgrade (based on availability)

✅ Surprise goodie bag

*Only $497 per person. Limited to 8 upgrades. Simply choose "Special VIP Upgrade" on the checkout page.

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. 

Registration pricing is the same for a plus one. However, they do not have to attend the training workshop (more pool time! 😎) but will be able to participate in everything else we have planned.

*NOTE:  Double occupancy rooms are SOLD OUT so if you bring a plus one, you'll be sharing a room with one or two others.

🤍 I WANT TO BE A PLUS ONE! 🤍

Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!

Hurry, this retreat will fill up fast! Grab your spot today.

Take me to my options. I'm already packing! 🧳🎒

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 About Italy!

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. ~ Mark Twain