Is the art retreat available to all levels?

The art retreat with Matthew White is open to all levels of experience.

When is the art retreat available?

The art retreat with artist Matthew White in San Giovanni, Sicily, Italy, takes place between May 3 - 10, 2025.

Are there any check-in and check-out hours?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM on May 3, 2025, and check-out is after breakfast on May 10, 2025.

Is Wi-Fi available?

WiFi is available in the common areas at no additional cost.

I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?

Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.

How do I get to the retreat venue?

Please plan to arrive at Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO). We advise allowing extra time for long-distance international travel. Arriving in Italy a day before the retreat starts helps mitigate potential issues due to flight delays, allows for rest post-travel, and facilitates adjustment to the new time zone. Private airport transfers to and from Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) at pre-arranged times are included. Refer to the Location tab for further details. Please refrain from booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you are charged for your participation.

What should I pack?

Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.

Can I do laundry while on the retreat?

Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue, and you are welcome to use them for free during your stay.

What art supplies do I need for the workshops?

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Matthew White will be provided upon booking, five months before the retreat begins. Field easels, tables, chairs, plein-air chairs, glass jars, paper towels, and appropriate disposal bins are available on location.

What’s the weather like in Sicily in early May?

The weather in early May in Sicily is usually sunny and mild. You can expect average highs of 22°C (72°F) during the day that drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night. In recent years, however, temperatures have varied unpredictably. It is a good idea to check the weather yourself before you depart for the art retreat and to pack accordingly.

How many people are to be expected at the retreat?

Maximum of 16 participants.

Do I need a visa?

Guests from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and/or Schengen member states can enter Italy for tourism without a visa. If this policy changes, we will inform you promptly. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.

What language is used during the art retreat and other activities?

The retreat is available in English.

Can a non-participating guest join me?

We do not accommodate non-participants at our art retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the artistic and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants.

Are there any age restrictions?

There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.

Is the art retreat available to guests with limited mobility?

Unfortunately, the retreat venue is not well suited to host people with limited mobility. The venue grounds are set across hilly terrain, and most of the main facilities are only accessible via stairs. The garden cottages are accessible via a steep cobblestone path. Furthermore, there will be plenty of walking during the art trips.

I'm afraid of insects. Can I join?

Please be mindful that the retreat venue is located in a lush natural park; therefore, it should be expected that you will encounter some insects during your stay. If you leave your door or window open throughout the day or night, some insects might come into the room. Do not worry; there are no dangerous insects in Madonie Natural Park. However, people with acute entomophobia—fear of insects—are advised not to join.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.

Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?

UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.

Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the artist or by UpTrek?

If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the artist's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation.

What happens if I need to cancel?

All bookings are nonrefundable. Once payment is made, it is considered final. In the event of cancellation, regardless of the reason, no refunds will be granted.

Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might entail cancellation or change of travel arrangements. This insurance should cover any potential losses incurred due to cancellation or no-show, including but not limited to medical emergencies, travel disruptions, or personal circumstances. We are not affiliated with any travel insurance providers. It is your responsibility to secure appropriate insurance coverage that includes trip cancellation and interruption protection. We highly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of your chosen insurance provider to understand the coverage and claim process.

We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.