Local Living Italy - Umbria Adventure Tour

Feeling burnt out by our fast-paced, always-on hyper-connected world? Time to unplug and get back to the land. And there's no better place to do that than Umbria, the green heartland of Italy, tucked away just south of Tuscany. On this eight-day slice of rural life, you'll hang out on the grounds of a converted farmhouse, soaking in the pleasures of a simpler time like helping out around the farm, feeding the livestock, and making pasta. But don't worry; you're not just living on the farm - you can hike into the hills, go for a swim, explore the nearby towns of Gubbio and Assisi, or do absolutely nothing at all. Work: optional. Fun: mandatory.

What's Included  

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group. Self-sustained farmhouse stay with home-cooked meals (Umbertide). Daily optional farm activities such as feeding the animals, picking fruits and veggies, or pasta making. Daily optional yoga/pilates classes. Optional hikes to nearby lakes or scenic lookouts. Gubbio day trip. Assisi day trip. Basilica of St Francis entrance. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Highlights  

Experience life on a farm, Assist with pasta-making, Enjoy a day trip to the medieval town of Gubbio, Visit the Basilica of St Francis, Experience local Umbrian dishes.

Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Important Notes  

1. It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places.

2. In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.

3. Participation in activities around the farm such as feeding the animals, lending a hand in the garden, and making the food are not obligatory, but are highly recommended to help immerse you in the laid back lifestyle of a local Umbrian. Travellers are asked to assist with dish washing after meals, and use the laundry facilities on site for personal laundry, including bed sheets if desired.

4. Please note that if during your visit to Italy you wish to visit popular museums such as the Uffizi or Accademia Galleries in Florence, to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially in high season May-September when it could be a question of hours!), it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. Tickets can be reserved online at various websites including www.florenceart.it or www.virtualuffizi.com for Florence and www.tickitaly.com for all

Group Leader Description  

This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

Transport  

Private vehicle, walking

About our Transportation  

Transport on this trip will mostly be by private vehicle, and by local bus.

Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.

What to Take  

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.)

Packing List  

Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Laundry  

Laundry facilities available on-site.

Money Exchange  

Italy is in the Eurozone and the unit of the currency is the Euro.

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Visa cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Italy - check with your bank. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card, that a fee usually applies.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros, traveller's cheques and cards is best. Avoid relying on traveller's cheques alone as these are less and less readily cashed as clients use them very little.

Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Health  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings in this dossier for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Solo Travellers  

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

Departure Tax  

Usually included in international air ticket, please check with your airline before flying.

Max Pax  

8

Group Leader  

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local host and guides

Tipping  

It is customary in Europe to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service (€1-2).

Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline €30-40 per person, per week can be used.

Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Optional Activities  

Umbertide
- Yoga/Pilates (10EUR per person)
- Local hike to Arcelle Lake
- Horseback Riding (20-40EUR per person)
- Local hike to Monte Acuto
- Walk to Migianella Hill
- Duomo Visit
- Roman Theatre Visit

Assisi
- Home of St. Francis of Assisi (Eremo delle Carceri) Visit
- San Damiano Convent Visit
- Rocca Maggiore Visit (6EUR per person)

Local Dress  

In Italy, shoulders should be covered while visiting churches and cathedrals. Ask your CEO for more specific advice.

Group Size Notes  

Max 10, avg 7

Meals Included  

7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

About Accommodation  

For the duration of the tour we stay at a restored, self-sustaining farmhouse surrounded by 40 hectares of forest and olive groves. Originally built in the 15th century as a watch-tower for a nearby Monestevole castle, this property developed into a home that housed farmer's families over the coming centuries. Today, the grounds have been beautifully restored but maintains its rustic authenticity, making it the ideal home base for those looking to explore Umbria. Guests are invited to enjoy the benefits of an eco-friendly living, and plant a tree onsite to offset their carbon footprint.

Located about a 40 minute drive from the charming neighbouring town of Umbertide, the farmhouse is situated on a hill top, boasting incredible views of the rolling green hills the region is known for. With a nearby lake for swimming, there are various walks and hikes available from the property. This 40 hectare farm works to be as self-sufficient as possible by growing their own organic produce, and running the farm on renewable energy sources. Natural tooth paste and shampoo produced on the farm will be available for use.

Umbria is the greenest region of Italy. Local crops include olive oil, wine, sunflowers, and spelt. The region is famous for its truffles, pork meat and wild boar. During your stay you will have the pleasure to eat traditional meals made with seasonal ingredients, family style. Meals will incorporate a variety of products made on the farm, such as oil, wine, meats, pasta, milk, cheese, and organic produce.

The hosts of the property have created a space for you to feel at home in. Participation in activities around the farm such as feeding the animals, lending a hand in the garden, and assisting with meal preparation are not obligatory, but are highly recommended to help immerse you in the laid back lifestyle of a local Umbrian. Travellers are asked to assist with dish washing after meals, and use the laundry facilities on site for personal laundry. With an aim to conserve as much as possible, bed sheets will not be changed during your stay.

PLEASE NOTE: If you would like to share a room with your travelling companion, please make sure you book together. If you are unable to book at the same time as your travelling companion, please contact us directly as soon as possible so that we can check availability and, if possible, assign you to the correct room type.

Travel Insurance  

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Meals  

During your stay you will have the pleasure to eat traditional meals made with seasonal ingredients, family style. Meals will incorporate a variety of products made on the farm, such as oil, wine, meats, pasta, milk, cheese, and organic produce.

Accommodation  

Hotel (1 nt), farmhouse/guesthouse (6 nts)

Trip Specific Safety  

Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings and mind your