PUGLIA GETAWAY

Explore THE HEEL OF ITALY’S BOOT

SEPTEMBER 27 - OCTOBER 3, 2024

TRIP DESCRIPTION:

Embark on a laid-back, luxurious journey with Gals Abroad Getaways as we whisk you away to the sun-kissed shores & hilltop villages of Puglia, Italy.

No longer just the whispered secret among the well-traveled, Puglia has emerged as the quintessential destination for those in search of Italian sophistication and style. This region of Italy (the heel of Italy’s boot) exudes an effortless charm. From its enchanting maze-like villages to its pristine beaches, we know you’ll fall in love with this captivating region - fondly referred to as the “new” Tuscany.

Join Alle & Linda as we sip on fine wines, savor delectable cuisine, stay in an authentic 16th-century Masseria Farm House (updated to a 5-star luxury resort) and bask in the warm Mediterranean sun with an incredible group of travel-loving Gal Pals.

Unlike some of our other getaways that involve moving around to different locations and hotels, we will spend all 6 nights at our amazing luxury resort and explore the different towns of Puglia through short day trips, allowing our gals plenty of downtime to spend how they see fit.

And of course - no Gals Abroad Getaway to the Mediterranean would be complete without an EPIC boat day!

ONLY THREE SPOTS LEFT UNTIL WE MOVE TO A WAITLIST & WE HAVE ONE GAL WHO IS LOOKING FOR A ROOMIE!

Please be aware that by completing the form at the button above, you are officially expressing interest in joining this trip. Final confirmation of your acceptance will only be given after our information call that you will schedule at the end of the form.

 By requesting to register for this trip you are agreeing that upon acceptance you will pay the non-refundable deposit within 24 hours of receiving our forms. 

 If you complete this form and do not comply, your name will be flagged for future Gals Abroad Getaways trips.

DESTINATIONS WE’LL BE VISITING:

ONLY THREE SPOTS LEFT UNTIL WE MOVE TO A WAITLIST & WE HAVE ONE GAL WHO IS LOOKING FOR A ROOMIE!

Please be aware that by completing the form at the button above, you are officially expressing interest in joining this trip. Final confirmation of your acceptance will only be given after our information call that you will schedule at the end of the form.

 By requesting to register for this trip you are agreeing that upon acceptance you will pay the non-refundable deposit within 24 hours of receiving our forms. 

 If you complete this form and do not comply, your name will be flagged for future Gals Abroad Getaways trips.

ABOUT THE TOUR: 

Puglia is an enchanting tourist destination - and after visiting it last year I can see why! What used to be a hidden gem is becoming up more and more popular in the travel world. The region itself is fairly small (it is the “heel” of Italy’s boot shape) but has so many unique towns that we can’t wait to show you.

On this getaway, you’ll get to experience the authentic Italian culture, visit small local boutiques, get lost wandering the winding streets, swim in crystal clear blue waters, and enjoy some of the BEST food and wine this region offers. Puglia has a different vibe than other areas of Italy - laid back and authentic. Join us and explore this region of Italy before it becomes inundated with tourists!

This will be our 6th time visiting Italy and we cannot wait to share some of our most cherished experiences with you!

THE DETAILS:

• DATES: September 27th - October 3rd, 2024

• TRIP LENGTH: 6 nights, 7 days in Puglia, Italy

• TRIP STYLE: Exploring the region with built-in downtime to customize to your interests

• ACCOMMODATION: Double Occupancy (however single rooms may be available upon request & at an additional cost)

• OPEN TO: Gal pals, moms/daughters, sisters, cousins, BFFs, or solo gals (we will always help to pair solo gals with a roommate)

• SIZE: 10 travelers needed for the trip to move forward (max 18)

WHO THIS TRIP IS FOR:

• THE GAL WHO IS LOOKING TO EXPERIENCE AUTHENTIC PUGLIA - we purposefully picked the Masseria we are staying at so you get a true taste for the culture & what the region has to offer (not a commercialized version of Puglia)

• THE GAL WHO APPRECIATES A RELAXED & LAID BACK ATMOSPHERE - Puglia is not a region with hustle & bustle. Instead, this is a place to embrace the low-key rural lifestyle, charming small towns, laid-back days at sea & soaking up life's simple luxuries

• THE GAL WHO LOVES TO INDULGE IN THE LOCAL CUISINE - Puglia is known as the breadbasket of Italy and is all about fresh seafood, handmade pasta, cheese, bread & wine - we will be eating WELL on this trip.

Our Gals Abroad Getaways have been carefully crafted for independent women, seeking a blend of immersive cultural experiences, meaningful connections, and fabulous accommodations in some of the most dazzling destinations around the world. Above all else, we value kindness, inclusion, and respect (for our fellow travelers & the destination we are guests in).

Read the descriptions below carefully to determine if this trip sounds like it would be a fit for you:

• YOU ALWAYS PACK AN OPEN MIND - You are eager to fully immerse yourself in a new destination no matter how different it may be from your day-to-day life & home country

• YOU LEAD WITH KINDNESS AND RESPECT - We expect our gals to support an atmosphere of mutual respect and inclusion. You strive to always stay positive and prefer to look at life with a glass-half-full mindset

• FLEXIBILITY IS YOUR MIDDLE NAME - You understand that travel, no matter how perfectly planned and curated, comes with its own set of hiccups and are ready to roll with the punches

• YOU HAVE TAKEN THE TIME TO FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE DESTINATION PRIOR TO TRAVEL - we believe that a bit of preparation and understanding of the destination you are visiting will make any trip 10x more meaningful and help set realistic expectations for the country you’re about to visit

• YOU’RE EXCITED TO MAKE SOME NEW GAL PALS - whether you’re joining us solo or coming with a gal pal, you’re ready to mix and mingle and make new travel-loving friends on this journey

• YOU LIKE A BIT OF GUIDANCE BUT DO NOT NEED HAND HOLDING - We pride ourselves on maintaining a high level of customer service from the minute we launch a new trip to the time you return home. That said we empower our gals to be self-sufficient & lean into their adventurous side. Where possible, we will provide some free time so you have the flexibility to explore the city or kick back and relax because we understand that everyone has a different travel style. But we will ALWAYS be there to assist with suggestions & recommendations.

SPECIAL PUGLIA CONSIDERATIONS:

• YOU DON’T MIND CAR RIDES - Our main method for getting from one destination to the other will be by road with some drives being anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (when we drive to Matera). For anyone prone to motion sickness, please be certain to come prepared with your anti-nausea medications.

• YOU ARE OPEN TO EMBRACING THE LOCAL CUISINE - While we always do our best to accommodate our Gal’s dietary requirements, this trip is truly about embracing the local, regional cuisine which predominantly features dishes with seafood, pasta, grains, and cheese.

• YOU ARE UP FOR A RELAXING, RURAL EXPERIENCE - This Getaway is all about escaping the hustle & bustle, slowing down, and embracing the laid-back luxuries of this region of Italy. It’s about leisurely strolls in small villages, basking in the sun on our private boat day & savoring the delicious wines & pasta while you chit-chat with your fellow Gals. Please note that our hotel is not within walking distance to any town or village (only a short drive).

CLICK HERE TO READ THE GALS ABROAD GETAWAYS CODE OF CONDUCT AS YOU WILL BE ASKED TO UPHOLD THIS IF YOU WILL BE TRAVELING WITH US.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ABOVE-MENTIONED CONSIDERATIONS PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHOOT US AN EMAIL: galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com

** This trip is open to any self-identifying woman 21 years and older. We reserve the right to decline any request to travel with Gals Abroad Getaways**

WHAT WE’RE DOING:

Get ready to uncover Puglia's charm! From cheese and wine delights with one of the stars in Stanley Tucci's "Searching for Italy" Puglia episode to basking in the sun at a beach club, we'll stroll through Alberobello's Trulli and dive into Matera's depths. Top it off with sunset cocktails at our favorite winery/Masseria. Optional activities like cooking classes & tours are always available for any Gal craving more!

We’ve created an itinerary that carefully balances short walking tours of historic Puglia towns, off-the-beaten-path experiences + free time in either the morning or afternoon for you to relax or add on additional activities (depending on how you’re feeling).

PUGLIA HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Welcome Dinner at a 16th-century Masseria, setting the tone for an unforgettable adventure

• Embark on a Guided Walking Tour of Alberobello and Locorotondo, with ample free time for your own personal discoveries

• Embark on a Guided Walking Tour of the coastal gems of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, followed by leisure time to soak up the seaside charm

• Cruise along the picturesque coastline on a Private Boat Day

• Soak up the sun and atmosphere at a vibrant Beach Club

• Immerse yourself in the ancient allure of Matera on a Guided Walking Tour, with plenty of time to explore its hidden corners

• Enjoy a Cheese & Wine Tasting led by a local cheesemaker featured in Stanley Tucci’s “Searching for Italy”

• Sunset Drinks and Aperitifs, raising a glass to the memories made

• Farewell Dinner among the grapes at one of our favorite wineries

• Explore a variety of optional activities, including cooking classes and wine tastings

We’ve created optional activities for those looking to soak up ALL that the destination has to offer, but we’ve also given you time to do as you please and not feel like the schedule has you going non-stop.

Just like our India and Dubai trip - we are offering this Getaway consecutively with our Amalfi Coast Getaway, so you have the option of booking these trips separately or as one extended two-week Italian getaway!

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR AMALFI COAST TRIP HAPPENING IMMEDIATELY AFTER OUR PUGLIA GETAWAY.

Our luxury MASSERIA: torre coccaro

Let’s start with one of the most common questions: What is a Masseria? You’ll hear this word often in Puglia because these are the most common types of accommodation. “Masseria” is an Italian word with no direct English equivalent, but for lack of a better way of explaining it, they are estates in rural Italy. A Masseria is comprised of a complex of buildings, a farm, and often times orchards, olive groves and gardens. Wealthy landowners in Puglia began building them in the 8th century. Nowadays, these rustic estates have been lovingly transformed into luxurious hotels & guesthouses.

For the entire duration of our Puglia tour, we’ll be staying in a gorgeous, restored 16th-century family-run farmhouse turned luxury resort in the heart of Puglia. Surrounded by olive groves, Torre Coccaro is a 5-star Masseria that features a large outdoor swimming pool, heated indoor pool and Turkish bath, elegant guest rooms, and stunningly maintained grounds. You are just a short drive away from their private beach club on the Adriatic Sea and of course, we’re spending an afternoon there. With multiple in-house restaurants, a spa, and daily wellness classes, this resort is a destination on its own!

*A VERY IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT OUR HOTEL*

This Masseria is anything but a standard luxury hotel - and that’s exactly what we love about it. We chose this specific property after visiting last April and falling in love with the way it seamlessly blends laid-back luxury with the authenticity of staying in a truly historic property.

Please keep in mind, that this former estate that has been transformed into luxury accommodations. AKA, no two rooms are 100% the same. We chose this Masseria because it truly embodies the character of Puglia. As with any of our hotel choices we prioritize safety, cleanliness, location, character, and above all else a capable & kind hotel team.

Due to the nature of our unique accommodations, not all guests will have the same room type. Room preference in this instance will be given in the order in which guests sign up (so the sooner you register the higher the chance of getting the room type you’re looking to stay in).

OPTIONAL & REQUIRED ROOM UPGRADES

Upon sign-up, we will be offering an option to upgrade to higher-category rooms due to the limited number of standard rooms at our Masseria. This means that the sooner you sign up, the greater your chances of having the room type you prefer (room preference will be given in order of sign-up).

After we reach our minimum of 10 passengers, and if everyone selects the lowest category rooms, we will only be able to offer suites at an additional cost (explained in the costing below).

Puglia PRICING & INCLUSIONS

PRICE PER PERSON: $7,315

ADDITIONAL COST FOR PRIVATE ROOM: $2,600

DUE AT REGISTRATION: 30% NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT

THE REMAINING BALANCE IS DUE JUNE 10, 2024

OPTIONAL ROOM UPGRADE TO A JR. SUITE OR JR. SUITE DELUXE:

• $345 JR. SUITE SHARED & $675 JR. SUITE SOLO [ON TOP OF TRIP COST] - SOLD OUT

• $1,000 JR. SUITE DELUXE SHARED & $1,750 JR. SUITE DELUXE SOLO [ON TOP OF TRIP COST]

**Trip pricing based on a mandatory 10 person minimum**

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• 6 nights of luxury accommodations at Masseria Torre Coccaro

• Breakfast daily

• Welcome Dinner

• 3 Lunches

• Yoga and pilates classes at the resort

• Guided walking tours & private transportation to 5 iconic towns in Puglia

• Half-Day Private Boat Day [including lunch]

• Wine & Cheese tasting

• Sunset drinks & aperitifs on our final evening

• Farewell Dinner

• Expert guides

• Private Airport Transfers

• Exclusive VIP assistance with luggage, transfers, and guides

• Top Secret Gals Abroad Surprises & gifts! 

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

• International Flights

  • Gals Abroad Getaways can make flight recommendations based on your arrival & departure

• Travel Insurance (required)

  • **Gals Abroad Getaways can help you secure a policy**

• Some meals & alcohol

• Taxis/Transportation for Personal Leisure

• Optional add-on activities and excursions

• Tips that will be collected from the group at the beginning of the tour for all guides

• Souvenirs

ONLY THREE SPOTS LEFT UNTIL WE MOVE TO A WAITLIST & WE HAVE ONE GAL WHO IS LOOKING FOR A ROOMIE!

Please be aware that by completing the form at the button above, you are officially expressing interest in joining this trip. Final confirmation of your acceptance will only be given after our information call that you will schedule at the end of the form.

 By requesting to register for this trip you are agreeing that upon acceptance you will pay the non-refundable deposit within 24 hours of receiving our forms. 

 If you complete this form and do not comply, your name will be flagged for future Gals Abroad Getaways trips.

MEET YOUR HOSTS

3 REASONS TO TRAVEL WITH LINDA AND ALLE

Alle and Linda are the eccentric, overpacking, adventure-loving mother-daughter duo at the center of the Gals Abroad Getaways brand. 

INSIDER ACCESS:  We leverage our network of global connections to ensure you get the total VIP treatment. We’ve spent YEARS building strong relationships with hotel partners, guides, and destination specialists across the globe so you are 100% taken care of. From complimentary room upgrades, early check-in & daily breakfast to private behind-the-scenes tours at iconic landmarks, and tons of surprises and treats along the way - these are just a few of the perks you can expect as our guest.

EXPERT KNOWLEDGE: Between the two, they have visited more than 100 countries & worked in the travel industry for 15+ years. Our partner travel agency, Scorby Travel and Cruise, has been crafting luxury trips for clients for 50+ years. We know what it takes to execute a dynamic, well-thought-out travel experience for our clients (YOU!). 

A FRIENDLY FACE: when you join one of our group trips, Linda and I will be with you (quite literally) every step of the way. From the time of booking to when you’re unpacked and back at home, joining one of our getaways will give you the peace of mind you need to navigate this ever-changing travel landscape in style.

WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

Cancellations need to be reviewed on an individualized basis as described within your mandatory travel insurance policy provisions (which Gals Abroad Getaways can assist you in purchasing). For any other cancellations, the Gals Abroad Getaways standard cancellation policy can be reviewed HERE. Any Gals who would like the option to cancel for any reason are advised to purchase additional travel insurance.

QUESTIONS?

• Can I come solo?

  • YES OF COURSE (that’s what most of our gals do)! Please make a note of this on your registration & we will always work to pair you with a fellow solo traveler. If we cannot find you a roommate, you would have the option to join & pay a single supplement fee or opt to join us at a later date. However, we will never take your deposit without first letting you know where you stand with a roommate. Email to galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com if you have any questions!

• How much free time will we have?

  • There is SO much to see & do in each of these destinations and we know you’ll probably want some time to adventure on your own. We’ve structured this itinerary in a way that gives you some free time in each of the small towns we visit after a short tour to acquaint you with the area. This itinerary has been carefully crafted to give you some downtime in the mornings and afternoons to explore on your own, relax at the hotel, join a small group for dinner or book one of our many amazing optional activities like cooking classes & wine tours.

• Can I come early, stay late or add on another region of Italy?

  • Of course! When requesting to register we are taking a head count of all the gals who want to arrive early or stay late. As always, we’re more than happy to assist with booking hotels & activities for any Gals arriving early or extending their stay. Have more questions - shoot us an email galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com

• What is the activity level?

  • We will be doing a fair amount of walking on this trip in many of the small villages. You should be able to comfortably walk for about 3 hours. One of the days we are going to be enjoying a full-day boat tour and if you feel like swimming you are highly encouraged to jump in the water (if you get motion sickness please keep this in mind). Every day we will have private transportation to take us to and from activities & but once we reach the towns we will be 100% walking. One of my absolute favorite things to do in any Centro Storico in Italy is wander and stumble upon shops and restaurants. You will absolutely want to pack your walking shoes ;)

• Is there an age requirement/limit for this trip?

  • You must be 21 years of age or older to join any Gals Abroad Getaway. While we do not have an age limit we do suggest that anyone joining this trip be comfortable with walking for up to 3 hours.

• What should I pack?

  • Don’t you worry, we will send out a packing list well in advance to those attending so that you have PLENTY of time to shop and plan so you can feel your most fabulous self once you arrive.

• How can I get to know the other gals on this trip?

  • Prior to this trip, we will be sending out a Gals Abroad Getaways “Get to Know the Gals” document + some exciting virtual, IRL opportunities to get to know one another before the trip kicks off.

• Do I need to purchase travel insurance?

  • Yes, everyone will be required to purchase travel insurance for this trip. In order for pre-existing conditions to be covered, this insurance must be purchased no later than 7 days from the date of initial deposit. When you are confirmed for the trip, we will follow up with insurance options and costs. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs if your plans change for unforeseeable reasons or if you need medical help/emergency transport or experience theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. 

• Is there a minimum number of participants required to run the trip?

  • Yes. We require a minimum of 10 travelers to run this trip. If we do not meet the minimum, the per-person cost is subject to increase by a nominal amount. If this occurs, we will reach out to each traveler to inform them of the additional cost.

• What happens if the tour is postponed?

  • If this trip needs to be canceled for any COVID-19 reasons, we will reschedule this itinerary to a future date.

• Is there a waiting list?

  • There will be a waiting list that will run on a first-come, first-serve basis in the event of a space opening up. If this particular trip is full, and you’re still interested in coming, please send an email to galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com to be added to the waiting list

• Still, have questions? No worries!

  • Send us an email galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com and we’d be more than happy to help!