Brushstrokes of Italy

What should I bring?

Whatever you need that can be packed in a medium sized suitcase with wheels. Include clothing, personal items, prescriptions, small purse inside a larger purse or backpack, credit card, some cash, camera and PASSPORT. Pack LIGHT. You'll want to go shopping!

What should I wear?

Casual resort type clothing. It is acceptable to mix and match clothing and wear them several days. There may be laundry facilities available, but it will be limited, so pack accordingly. 

What clothing should I pack?

Capris, shorts, swimwear, sleepwear, sandals, a dress or skirt, comfortable walking shoes, a light sweater or jacket. Layer clothing. Hat, scarves and belts are good accessories to bring. Leave expensive jewelry at home.

What else should I pack?

Pack your own toiletries in small bottles Remember your sunscreen, lip balm, medications and vitamins, diarrhea medicine, and pain reliever. Also, hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes are useful. Sleep aid or sleeping pills. Antibiotic (prescribed by your doctor, in case of illness.)

What size suitcase should I bring?

A Medium sized suitcase, NOT a big suitcase. MUST be less than 50 pounds. Pack LIGHT, you will need space for souvenirs, clothes, oil, wine, etc. LESS is BEST!

Will someone help me with my luggage?

NO, what you pack, you must be able to carry - through airports, up and down paths and sometimes stairs.

How much money should I take?

Whatever you will need for snacks, meals in your own time, drinks, and souvenirs. You can get euros out of an ATM with a debit card, if you need cash, however most places accept debit or credit cards. 

Will I be able to buy snacks, water, etc.?

Yes, there are usually markets nearby.

Which airport do I fly into?

Please plan to fly into Leonardo da Vinci International Airport

We provide complimentary group transportation:
  • Arrival:  July 16 at 4:00 PM
  • Departure: July 29 at 10:00 AM

Please ensure your flight arrives at least 45 minutes before the scheduled pickup time and departs at least 2 hours after the scheduled drop-off time.

If you arrive earlier or later than the scheduled transfer, we’re happy to assist with arranging a taxi at your own expense.

Can I book my own accommodation elsewhere and still attend the daily art experiences?

No, this is not an option for the Milan Art Retreats.

What’s the food like?

Italian food is very wholesome and fresh. We will be eating a lot of pasta, pizza, and seafood. All meals are Family Style. Milan Art Retreats orders the food, we sit down and are served family style - with platters of food passed around. Meals typically take about 2 hours, with much visiting, sharing, talking and enjoying the food and drinks!

What if I get sick?

There are clinics available in even the smallest towns. The doctors and nurses might not speak English, so our guides will assist you, but the cost of care is paid up front and you must bill your own insurance when you get home.

What if I get jet lag?

Everyone experiences “jet lag” to a certain extent. We recommend that you take a sleep aid or sleeping pills on the long plane ride and for the first couple of nights while your internal clock adjusts to the new time zone.

What if I want a beer or a glass of wine?

That is acceptable. Drinking is usually contained to one or two glasses. Europeans tend to have a more casual attitude toward alcohol and far less abuse. This tour is NOT a “party” tour and we will not have excessive drinking and drunkenness, for liability reasons and for the consideration and enjoyment of other travelers.

Will there be free time?

Yes, there will be free time every day, where you can go out on your own, or stay back and relax.

Can I bring someone with me who isn't an artist? What if I'm not an artist but I want to go a retreat with you?

Of course! Anyone from anywhere is able to join us. Whether you're a beginner, hobby artist, or experienced all of our art lessons will be beneficial and inspiring. If you or your spouse/friend isn't an artist, that's ok too! You can skip any of the art classes (although we encourage you to have fun and be a part of them anyways!)

What will the art workshops be like on this trip?

Art will be integrated into all aspects of the trip. You will create many pieces of artwork throughout this magical experience. Everyone will paint in acrylics with their acrylic travel kit. We will teach mixed media techniques, drawing, collage, and photography for future projects. There will be many chances for sharing artwork and constructive critiques. The art journaling that you do on this trip will be contribute to your future masterpieces!

Do I have to bring my own supplies?

No, we will provide all the supplies you will need; however, a favorite set of pens, brushes or pencils is encouraged. You can bring anything else you want! This is YOUR trip.

Will I need to rent a car?

Transportation to and from the airport is provided as well as for the excursions, so you don’t need to rent a car. The rest of the time, you can easily walk wherever you need to go.

Be Considerate.

While on a retreat with the Milan’s, you will be working with others as a team and will be seen by others as representatives of Milan Art Institute. Please always be considerate of how your actions or contribution affects your team.

Be Respectful.

Treat all individuals with a sense of dignity, respect, and worth. Make a personal commitment to be non-judgmental about cultural differences, living conditions and the lifestyle of each person you encounter. Avoid profane and abusive language and disruptive behavior that is dangerous to yourself and others. Always have proper identification on you. All items of clothing must be suitable for the cultural environment and should not contain offensive or objectionable material. If you use tobacco, please be respectful of those around you and smoking on the bus/van will NOT be tolerated.

Be Collaborative.

When you are unsure, ask for help. Nobody knows everything and nobody is expected to be perfect. Asking questions avoids many problems down the road, so questions are encouraged. Try to be helpful so that everyone is on the same page.

Be Available.

Each of the Milan Art Retreats are carefully planned out in accordance with the activities for the day and the number of people on the trip; therefore, it is important for the entire team that you are on time and available for team activities. You always have the option to stay back or venture out on your own, but in this case, you will be solely responsible for your own food and travel provisions. We will not reimburse you for any activities or meals missed.

Be Safe.

We are traveling into a foreign country and it is imperative that you always pay attention to the instructions of the team leaders. While unsafe conditions are not anticipated, be sure to always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to safeguard your personal items. Do not go off on your own. It is important that Milan Art Trip team members always know where each participant is at. There will be plenty of time for relaxing, shopping, and enjoying the country. Finally, do not use, possess, or be under the influence of illegal drugs at any time during the trip. Use of alcohol is not prohibited, but do not be under the influence of alcohol during the trip (no drunkenness).

Be Positive.

This is the trip of a lifetime! But inevitably there will be moments in which you might feel uncomfortable due to the exploration of a foreign land, sometimes one may experience “culture shock” and this is normal. We ask that you be conscious of your attitude because it will affect the others on the trip. It's essential to communicate your discomforts to a team leader rather than a fellow travel so that we can help you and try to mitigate your frustrations. Our goal is to help you have the best experience possible and communication is essential.

Is airfare included?

Airfare is not included. Guests are responsible for booking their own flights that align with the scheduled airport transfer times.

What do I do if I unexpectedly have to cancel the trip? Can I get a refund?

All sales for in-person events—including workshops, retreats, intensives, and other experiences—are final. We do not offer refunds or credit for cancellations or no-shows. Funds can not be transferred to another event.

By registering for any in-person event, you are agreeing to this policy and helping us maintain a smooth and well-prepared event experience for all.