Are you dreaming of an unforgettable getaway that combines massage education, cultural exploration and breathtaking beauty? If so, we have the perfect retreat for you!

Double Occupancy: Massage Therapist
$3397
Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available)
REGISTER NOWDouble Occupancy: Plus One*
$3197
Per Person - Pay in Full Price (Payment Plan Available)
REGISTER NOWCheck out this incredible itinerary!

Day 1: Wednesday, Oct. 29th
Arrive into Syracuse and make your way to our host hotel on Ortigia Island where weâll be waiting with open arms.Â
After you settle into your room, take a stroll around the neighborhood or get some well-deserved rest. Later that evening, weâll gather for a sumptuous welcome feast. Youâll get to know your fellow retreat participants while we review the itinerary for the incredible week ahead. What a great way to kick off our time together!
Meals included:Â dinner
Day 2: Thursday, Oct. 30th
After a delicious breakfast, we'll dive into our first session of the retreat. Under James's expert guidance, you'll immerse yourself in a hands-on Orthopedic Massage class, laying the foundation for an enriching journey of learning and discovery.
Weâll enjoy lunch at a charming local trattoria, then set out on our first adventureâa walking tour of the beautiful Ortigia Island. As we wander through the bustling streets, weâll take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the most beautiful spots in Sicily, including the vibrant market. Our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the island's rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. This is your chance to experience Ortigia's narrow alleys, ancient landmarks, and spectacular waterfront views.
Afterward, the evening is yours to enjoyâwhether you prefer to explore more or relax at your leisure.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch


Day 3: Friday, Oct. 31st
We'll start the day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive through the Sicilian countryside. Our first stop will be Ragusa, a Baroque town known for its picturesque old town of Ibla. Here, youâll have the chance to admire the neoclassical architecture of Ragusa Cathedral and stroll through Piazza Duomo, surrounded by elegant baroque buildings. The narrow streets and charming squares of Ibla are perfect for discovering local shops and hidden viewpoints - and for grabbing a quick bite before we continue our adventure.
Our next stop is Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its breathtaking Baroque architecture. This charming town is home to iconic landmarks like the Noto Cathedral, the grand Palazzo Ducezio, and the well-preserved Villa Romana del Tellaro, an ancient archaeological site. We will enjoy a guided tour to explore the rich history of this stunning town.
We will end our day at the Ramaddini Winery, located in the nearby countryside, where youâll enjoy a wine tasting showcasing the best of Sicilian wines, paired with delicious homemade Sicilian dishes and topped up with decadent Modica chocolate. This is the perfect opportunity to savor the regionâs local flavors and unwind with your fellow retreat participants. Once we arrive back in Ortigia, the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 4: Saturday, Nov. 1st
After a delicious breakfast, weâll reconvene for an Orthopedic Massage session, where youâll continue to deepen your practice and learn advanced techniques under the expert guidance of James Waslaski.Â
Weâll unwind with a relaxing lunch at the hotel, and after that, the day is yours to enjoy! Perhaps youâll choose to wander to the beach, soak up the sun, and dip your toes in the refreshing Mediterranean Sea. For a unique experience, you might want to visit a local cemetery to observe the All Saints Day festivities, where families celebrate by decorating tombstones with flowers and offerings.
For a change of pace, you could explore the charming streets of Ortigia Island, where you'll find delightful cafes, artisan shops, and hidden gems. You could also take a leisurely walk to the Fountain of Arethusa, an iconic landmark of the island, or visit the Castello Maniace, a medieval fortress with panoramic views of the sea.
If itâs relaxation youâre craving, consider booking a spa treatment at a nearby wellness center or enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the beach, soaking up the sun and listening to the sound of the waves. The day is yours to craft, with plenty of opportunities to explore, unwind, and soak in the Sicilian charm.


Day 5: Sunday, Nov. 2nd
Rise and shine! Today will be a perfect mix of learning, adventure, and fun! It's our last day of hands-on class, where all the fabulous techniques youâve learned this week will come together. I hope youâre proud of yourself because we certainly are!
After class, youâll don your bathing suits and weâll head to the docks for a 4-hour scenic boat tour along the coastal areas of Ortigia Island and Syracuse. Weâll start with a delicious homemade lunch on board and enjoy sailing to breathtaking sights like the Natural reserve of Plemmirio and the Syracuse north shore sea caves. You can even jump in and swim in the crystal-clear waters. This relaxing boat ride will provide a unique perspective of Syracuseâs historic landmarks and surrounding landscape, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the island.
The evening is free for you to enjoy however youâd like. Whether you want to explore more of Ortigiaâs enchanting streets, relax at the hotel, or indulge in a quiet dinner, the choice is yours.Â
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
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Day 6: Monday, Nov. 3rd
Our final full day is one of history and celebration. Weâll start the day with a visit to the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, one of Sicilyâs most significant and awe-inspiring sites. This incredible park is home to the impressive Greek Theatre, dating back to the 5th century BC, the well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre, and the famous Ear of Dionysius, a cave known for its extraordinary acoustics. With our private guided tour, youâll have the opportunity to explore these ancient ruins while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, offering a fascinating glimpse into Syracuseâs past.
After our exploration, weâll board our private transport and travel through the beautiful Syracuse countryside to the ancient water mill of Palazzolo. Here you will enjoy a guided tour of this idyllic property and learn more about the regionâs history. Afterward, weâll enjoy an alfresco lunch with homemade Sicilian specialties.Â
After another memorable day, weâll return to Ortigia for our Farewell Rooftop Party. Weâll celebrate the friendships made, the memories created, and the incredible journey weâve shared with a fun, relaxed evening under the stars. Enjoy the stunning views of Ortigia Island while we toast to new connections and unforgettable experiences.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, hors d'oeuvres


Day 7: Tuesday, Nov. 4th
Today marks the end of our incredible adventure together, and the beginning of your journey back to the ârealâ world. Weâll gather for breakfast to share our final farewells before you head home. If you've chosen to extend your stay in Sicily, we're happy to offer recommendations for your onward travels.
While it's never easy to say goodbye, remember this isnât the end. We'll continue to connect through our private Facebook group, where we can share photos, stories, and stay in touch. You've made unforgettable memories and new friendships that will remind you to always embrace the spirit of explorationâbecause life is short, and adventure is waiting!
Arrivederci! đ
Meals included: breakfast
Check Out These Bonuses!

Travel Planning
It can be overwhelming trying to find the best flight routes (and prices!) and figure out where to stay pre & post retreat. Take advantage of Linda Beach's expertise by hopping on a travel-planning Zoom call with her!

Private Facebook Group
As soon as you register, youâll be invited to join our private group where you can meet your travel companions and find the perfect roommate. We'll be sharing travel tips and other important information about our Heart of Sicily Retreat.

Pre-Trip Happy Hours
Before our big adventure, we'll host monthly 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, itâll be like meeting up with old friends!

Want to share this adventure with your partner, bestie or favorite family member?
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We have set aside a very limited number of spaces for your PLUS ONE to join you.*
They must register at the same time as you do. Your Plus One does not have to attend the training workshop (more free time! đ) but will be able to participate in everything else we have planned. (*must be 18 or older)
đ¤ YES TO A PLUS ONE! đ¤
Our Beautiful Accommodations...
Elegant 4* Accommodations
Situated just steps from the stunning waterfront and the island's charming piazzas, our elegant host hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building that seamlessly blends traditional Sicilian architecture with contemporary design.
As you step inside, youâll be greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere, where classic decor meets modern comfort. From the intricate tile work to the stylish furnishings, every detail of the hotel has been thoughtfully curated to ensure a comfortable and sophisticated stay.
Each room is a tranquil retreat, featuring a mix of classic charm and contemporary amenities, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The hotelâs serene ambiance offers a peaceful escape, while still being in the heart of Ortigiaâs vibrant energy.
One of the hotel's highlights of is its stunning rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, Ortigiaâs picturesque rooftops, and the distant Mount Etna. Heavenly!
Meet Your Hosts:
We are SO excited you are considering joining us in Seville! We promise you wonât regret investing in this gift to yourself. đ

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.Â
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, sheâs 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! đ đşÂ


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. â¤ď¸
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 donât need a vacation from. đ âď¸Â
Linda's passion for travel knows no bounds; it's inspired her to create a business dedicated to showcasing the enchanting wonders of our captivating world! She's so excited to be facilitating this retreat for James and Fran and showing YOU all the beauty the Siracuse region of Sicily has to offer.
Currently living in beautiful Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Linda loves spending time with her rescue pup, her 3 grown âkidsâ and two adorable grandsons, Luca and Charlie. đĽ°Â
Got Questions? Weâve Got Answers!
How is this different than a typical CE training?
Please explain the sleeping situation!
Can I bring my partner, family member or friend?
What if I can't afford a trip to Sicily?
I can't take the time away from my family and my practice!
I don't know how I feel about traveling with a group of strangers.
I'm stressed thinking about all the activities. Will I have any time to myself?
Do I have to be physically fit for this retreat?
Which airport do I fly into? How do I get to our hotel on Ortigia Island?
Can I arrive early or stay longer?
What about travel restrictions?
What will the weather be like in Sicily in late October?
What is the cancellation policy?
I have more questions and want to talk with someone personally.
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...đ
Let's chat!