Puglia, ITALY
sep 8 to 15, 2025
Celebrate your divine nature:
Embrace your worth and claim your power!
We sold out in 5 days! If you would like to be added to the wait list, please contact [email protected]. Thank you!
If Greece and Italy had a baby, it would be PUGLIA!
This retreat will be about embracing who we are regardless of who others define us to be
(kind of like Puglia!)
It's not Greece, It's not Italy, it's PUGLIA!
Stepping into our worth, claiming our power, and showing up for our lives completely.
If this resonates with you, don't hesitate, sign up now
This retreat will be about embracing who we are regardless of who others define us to be
(kind of like Puglia!)
It's not Greece, It's not Italy, it's PUGLIA!
Stepping into our worth, claiming our power, and showing up for our lives completely.
If this resonates with you, don't hesitate, sign up now
The Area
Puglia is at the heel of Italy's boot jutting out into the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
It is known for its stunning coastline, charming villages, delicious cuisine, rich history, and cultural authenticity.
Puglia has not been discovered by many tourists, and still captures the essence of how Puglia was long ago. There are many UNESCO world heritage sites that consists of diverse beauty, including the town of Alberobello, known for its unique trulli houses, cone-shaped structures made of dry stone.
OUR traditional family run masseria ACCOMODATIONS
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The Masseria is designed to fully immerse you in the Apulian tradition, which is why it has two furnished trulli, surrounded by beautiful olive and citrus groves.
After a short walk in a fragrant citrus grove, you can reach the swimming pool, immersed in nature, in an atmosphere of serenity and well-being, where relaxation is guaranteed. The emotions continue on the upper floor of the structure, where you will reach a terrace with a breathtaking view over the wide expanse of ancient olive trees up to the blue of the sea. The Masseria family will cook many of our meals made from the freshest, local ingredients in the Apulian tradition. The rooms are simple and elegant, set up for a restful night's sleep. |
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The Yoga
We will have yoga once or twice daily of course, to be able to help you get into your body and into your soul, to allow for reflection, journaling, and to put yourself on a new conscious course. There will be life coaching mixed in with yoga, meditation, journaling, and breath work to balance you out in just the right way.
Bringing in balance to your day - Keeping you really present - to tap into your creativity again.
Bringing in balance to your day - Keeping you really present - to tap into your creativity again.
This time is perfectly planned, to stretch, process and reflect through meditation and yoga that weaves in journaling, yoga and daily introspection. This gives you space to be able to have your own epiphanies around yourself and what’s next in your life - to integrate your outer experiences and reflect on the inner experiences - to be able to really embody this experience and make choices that you can take back into your life.
When you leave the retreat - you will carry in your heart all of the experiences and self-awareness that you have found this week. You will be given tools to live your life with this new found awareness and bring it to others - it’s contagious!
If you are a beginner - no worries! Classes are fulfilling for beginners and teachers alike - from gentle to yin to power! Sherry has been teaching for over 20 years and makes classes accessible for all levels - meeting you where you're at, honoring your body - yet giving you the challenge that you need to go beyond your comfort zone.
* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!
THE ITINERARY
You don’t have to think about a thing! Every detail is meticulously planned for you!
All you need to do is….SHOW UP….BE PRESENT…..and ENJOY!!!
Weaving in the perfect blend of yoga, activities and free time for self exploration and bonding with your new friends. There are also lots of surprises along the way.
You will receive so much more than your expectations!
All you need to do is….SHOW UP….BE PRESENT…..and ENJOY!!!
Weaving in the perfect blend of yoga, activities and free time for self exploration and bonding with your new friends. There are also lots of surprises along the way.
You will receive so much more than your expectations!
Upon your arrival...
You will be picked up either at your choice of arrival - the Bari train station or airport. We will make one pickup in the afternoon and transport you to the Masseria. You will be greeted by Sherry & her husband Stu and your new friends who have already arrived with a glass of wine. You decide to sit down and enjoy your wine before you settle in and unpack. Once you finish your wine, you check out the nooks and crannys of the masseria grounds and unpack. You indulge in this alone time before you meet up with the group for the opening circle and our first group dinner!
You will be picked up either at your choice of arrival - the Bari train station or airport. We will make one pickup in the afternoon and transport you to the Masseria. You will be greeted by Sherry & her husband Stu and your new friends who have already arrived with a glass of wine. You decide to sit down and enjoy your wine before you settle in and unpack. Once you finish your wine, you check out the nooks and crannys of the masseria grounds and unpack. You indulge in this alone time before you meet up with the group for the opening circle and our first group dinner!
Each day begins and ends with our daily yoga class with amazing excursions in between!
EXPLORING MYSTICAL MATERA
Early this morning, we are going to travel just outside of Puglia into the Italian region called Basilicata which is home to the wondrous and magical city of Matera. Upon our arrival in this sweepingly beautiful and unique hilltop city, which has been used as a backdrop for numerous iconic films, we will have a quick coffee before meeting our friendly and knowledgeable local guide. Our guide will lead us on a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Sassi di Matera, the fascinating ancient cave dwellings that were inhabited for over 2,500 years until the end of the 2nd World War.
L A C I T T À B I A N C A : O S T U N I
We will be exploring the incredibly beautiful hilltop city of Ostuni, also known as la citta bianca, the whitecity, via a guided walk by one of our trusted local guides. Known for its whitewashed buildings and white stone streets,
this charming medieval city with its fascinating history, glows day and night. Ostuni is a delightful city to wander, and we’ll meander through its incredible maze of narrow streets and visit some of its iconic architecture. There is an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the both the sea and surrounding valley. Due to its elevated location, Ostuni is truly an amazing place to simply stop and enjoy the view.
We will be exploring the incredibly beautiful hilltop city of Ostuni, also known as la citta bianca, the whitecity, via a guided walk by one of our trusted local guides. Known for its whitewashed buildings and white stone streets,
this charming medieval city with its fascinating history, glows day and night. Ostuni is a delightful city to wander, and we’ll meander through its incredible maze of narrow streets and visit some of its iconic architecture. There is an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the both the sea and surrounding valley. Due to its elevated location, Ostuni is truly an amazing place to simply stop and enjoy the view.
CATAMARAN TOUR & MONOPOLI
We’ll be making our way to the beautiful, fortified seafront town of Monopoli which is located on the Adriatic coast and offers a castle, a belltower, a cathedral, a working harbor, and incredible views of the sea at every turn followed by a beautiful catamaran tour. We will explore the coast line from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare. Be sure to bring yourswimsuit, because the water is irresistible.
We’ll be making our way to the beautiful, fortified seafront town of Monopoli which is located on the Adriatic coast and offers a castle, a belltower, a cathedral, a working harbor, and incredible views of the sea at every turn followed by a beautiful catamaran tour. We will explore the coast line from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare. Be sure to bring yourswimsuit, because the water is irresistible.
MARTINA FRANCA & ALBEROBELLO
Today is filled with local culture, visiting the towns of Martina Franca, Alberobello, the city known for its iconic white conical trulli homes and protected by UNESCO for the past 25 years. There is something a bit of a fairytale about this white city which is now bustling with local shops and eateries. This morning we’ll take a leisurely drive through the tranquil countryside and make our way to the local working farm
Today is filled with local culture, visiting the towns of Martina Franca, Alberobello, the city known for its iconic white conical trulli homes and protected by UNESCO for the past 25 years. There is something a bit of a fairytale about this white city which is now bustling with local shops and eateries. This morning we’ll take a leisurely drive through the tranquil countryside and make our way to the local working farm
LECCE
Today we will be visiting the stunningly beautiful Baroque city, Lecce. Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is
a city celebrated for its incredible art and uniquely ornate limestone and sandstone architecture. We will start with a guided walk of Lecce which boasts a 2,500-year-old history that includes many contributions by the Romans, including its fortification walls and ancient amphitheater.
Today we will be visiting the stunningly beautiful Baroque city, Lecce. Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is
a city celebrated for its incredible art and uniquely ornate limestone and sandstone architecture. We will start with a guided walk of Lecce which boasts a 2,500-year-old history that includes many contributions by the Romans, including its fortification walls and ancient amphitheater.
All our our trips would not be complete without some SURPRISES that are in store (which I’m not sharing and will not be disclosed until the event!!))
If you love yoga, unique experiences, to not worry about any detail, and to be pampered for the entire week, this trip is for you!
What's Included
- 7 nights accommodation in a traditional Masseria which has been thoughtfully selected for beauty, comfort, authenticity, and true local character
- Transfer to and from Bari Station/Airport on arrival & departure days
- All transport for the duration of your stay, as detailed on the itinerary in a bus
- Daily impressive Pugliese breakfast spread of local delicacies served each morning at the Masseria
- One Lunch
- All dinners - Delicious dinners will be a mix of big traditional Pugliese family-style dinners in the Masseria and at our favourite local restaurants
- Hand-selected local wine with all meals
- Bilingual hosts and expert local guides for the duration of the tour
- Surprise excursions and experiences!
- Guided walks and tours in: Ostuni, Matera, Alberobello, Monopoli, Polignano a Mare, & Lecce
- Catamaran Boat Tour with aperitivo
- Daily Yoga Sessions
What's Not included
- Meals outside of those listed above
- Alcohol with the exception of wine at dinner when included
- Airfare and travel costs
- Gratuities (for excursions if you feel they deserve it)
- Your shopping and additional purchases or excursions
- Entry fees to visit any museums, galleries, or public premises, not listed on the itinerary
- Personal, medical, or trip cancellation insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal Expenditures
Your Retreat Leader Sherry Smith, Life Coach & E-RYT500
I am a healthcare executive, yoga teacher and retreat leader who has the passion for service and to see others thrive!
Retreat Journeys has come to fruition through the love of my own yoga practice, my wanderlust travel roots, and my passion towards helping you find your purpose and life inspiration. I have been teaching yoga for over 20 years and hosting retreats for over 10. It is an honor to create these life changing experiences for you and a privilege to guide you on this inner and outer adventure of a lifetime. See you in Puglia! If you want to learn more about me, click here.
-Namaste, Sherry
Retreat Journeys has come to fruition through the love of my own yoga practice, my wanderlust travel roots, and my passion towards helping you find your purpose and life inspiration. I have been teaching yoga for over 20 years and hosting retreats for over 10. It is an honor to create these life changing experiences for you and a privilege to guide you on this inner and outer adventure of a lifetime. See you in Puglia! If you want to learn more about me, click here.
-Namaste, Sherry
I try not to have a day go by without affecting the world in a positive way. Our life is short - it's so important we do what we're passionate about and serve the world and humanity at the same time. The world needs more of our unique gifts and skills. It's our job to find out what it is and do that! :)
Bonuses
Before you even arrive, you'll be invited to join a private Facebook group as soon as you register so you can get to know your new friends, ask questions, and share in the pre-trip excitement. What's even better is that when you get home after the retreat you can keep in touch with everyone, share pictures, swap stories, and keep everyone in the loop with your triumphs and challenges.
A virtual group meet and greet meeting about 6 weeks prior to the trip to learn all the juicy details about the trip- what to pack, what to expect, travel logistics, etc. (If you live in Tampa, you can join in person!)
A virtual group meet and greet meeting about 6 weeks prior to the trip to learn all the juicy details about the trip- what to pack, what to expect, travel logistics, etc. (If you live in Tampa, you can join in person!)
You'll Leave with 3 Amazing Benefits
1. Living with a new ignited passion for life! Imagine leaving with finding yourself again, fully inspired, with a new appreciation for the people and experiences you have had in your life and ready to make new conscious choices given your new found passion on this trip. Your goal is to carry it into your every day life.
2. Tools to keep you focused after the trip - The entire week is structured around finding your passions with journaling, reflection and sharing time to give you the space to be able to reflect on your intentions. We give you tools to create goals or ways of being once you leave the retreat in your daily life. You'll return home knowing what it feels like to really be connected, inspired, and empowered!
3. Lasting friendships - You never knew that you could grow so close to seemed strangers that are now your friends forever in only a week! You have new soul-”mates” call upon whenever you need them! They have been through this experience with you and will always “get” you with little explanation needed.
Pricing
*reflects new pricing for 2025 at current conversion rate
*The pricing is valid for Euro-USD up to 1.20 exchange rate. If the exchange rate is higher than 1.20, the final balance will be adjusted to reflect higher exchange rate.
Deposits and Payments
- Deposit to hold space $1500
- 2nd Payment- $1500 due 12/8/2025
- 3rd Payment $1000 due 2/1/2025
- Balance Due ($995) due 4/1/2025
Travel Info
Fly directly into Bari airport or fly into Rome and take a high speed train (about 4 hours) to Bari. A transport bus will pick you up and drop you off at the airport for one designated time for the entire group. If this time does not work for you, you must set up your own transport to appropriate airport/train station.
If coming from the U.S. Travel dates would be Sep 7 to Sep 15 minimally. (depart US on Sep 7th or earlier)
Sherry is happy to help you navigate your airline travel options if needed. It is recommended to purchase tickets no more than 3-7 months from the actual travel dates as this is when airlines start pricing for fare sales.
Fly directly into Bari airport or fly into Rome and take a high speed train (about 4 hours) to Bari. A transport bus will pick you up and drop you off at the airport for one designated time for the entire group. If this time does not work for you, you must set up your own transport to appropriate airport/train station.
If coming from the U.S. Travel dates would be Sep 7 to Sep 15 minimally. (depart US on Sep 7th or earlier)
Sherry is happy to help you navigate your airline travel options if needed. It is recommended to purchase tickets no more than 3-7 months from the actual travel dates as this is when airlines start pricing for fare sales.
Have more questions? We have answers!
Have never done yoga before?
No problem! The retreat is for all levels! Our retreats are not just yoga - normally yoga is taught once or twice per day depending on our itinerary and the excursions and meals are just as much a part of the theme of the week as the yoga. It is an immersion for all of the senses!
Never traveled abroad? We’ve got you covered! We have traveled abroad and to Santorini before many times and can give you the advice you need to arrive safely.
Never done this for yourself? Just do it! There’s no time like now! It will be a life-defining week.
Traveling by yourself? Perfect! We'll partner you with a roommate to share your room with. Once you sign up we also connect you with our private Facebook page so that you get to get to know the group before the trip - so you can find another friend to travel with if you’d rather travel with someone.
No problem! The retreat is for all levels! Our retreats are not just yoga - normally yoga is taught once or twice per day depending on our itinerary and the excursions and meals are just as much a part of the theme of the week as the yoga. It is an immersion for all of the senses!
Never traveled abroad? We’ve got you covered! We have traveled abroad and to Santorini before many times and can give you the advice you need to arrive safely.
Never done this for yourself? Just do it! There’s no time like now! It will be a life-defining week.
Traveling by yourself? Perfect! We'll partner you with a roommate to share your room with. Once you sign up we also connect you with our private Facebook page so that you get to get to know the group before the trip - so you can find another friend to travel with if you’d rather travel with someone.
Can I bring my spouse? Our retreats are for men and women alike :) Sherry and Stu are a husband and wife team and make everyone feel at home. Our last Santorini retreat had 5 couples :) We even had a couple join us on their HONEYMOON in Corsica!
What is the weather like in Puglia this time of Year?
September boasts an average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Perfect!
What kind of clothes will I need for the trip? The weather is mild, so pack some shorts, light pants, sneakers, sandals, a few light sweaters for layers during evening or early morning hours.
What currency does Italy use? Euro. The currency exchange rate does change frequently. To check the current currency exchange rate, you can go to: http://www.xe.com/ucc/
What should I budget for meals? All dinners are included, which are the most expensive meals :) You can eat affordably and healthy for lunch with such deliciousness everywhere you turn! We'll be happy to help you with meal decisions.
I would like to immerse myself in yoga and self-exploration while I'm there. Is there time for that? YES! There will be plenty of time to reflect, do your own practice, journal, photography, sketching, whatever your creative outlet is.
Should I bring any yoga props with me (blocks, strap)? You should bring everything you need to practice yoga, especially your mat. Blocks will be provided, but please bring a strap and your mat.
Additional Questions? Contact Sherry. We're happy to help!
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 813-842-2366
What Retreat Participants Said
“The devotion all of you show to putting together such an amazing experience is very much appreciated. You seem to meet each one of us where we are at and encourage us to grow and reach further. Your spirits are so precious and I feel blessed to know you!”
"I found a safety and security that doesn't always exist with the stresses of home, work, and family. I felt safe enough to cry openly. Share more intimately, and ultimately grow deeper into both my yoga practice and my understanding of myself. You can't put a price on this experience, it truly is priceless. Deepest thanks to you. I didn't want this week to end.”
“The devotion all of you show to putting together such an amazing experience is very much appreciated. You seem to meet each one of us where we are at and encourage us to grow and reach further. Your spirits are so precious and I feel blessed to know you!”
"I found a safety and security that doesn't always exist with the stresses of home, work, and family. I felt safe enough to cry openly. Share more intimately, and ultimately grow deeper into both my yoga practice and my understanding of myself. You can't put a price on this experience, it truly is priceless. Deepest thanks to you. I didn't want this week to end.”