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"The Ultimate Italian Immersion Excursion"

THE OVERVIEW

 

- Are you intrigued by all things Italian, the people, the culture, the food, the wine, the style,

the shopping?

- Would you like to experience Italy from a local’s perspective?

- Would you like to shop some of Italy's most popular footwear, accessory, and apparel brands at discounted prices?

- And how about the opportunity to actually customize your own footwear and accessories?

 

If so, you are in for an adventure you won’t forget.

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On behalf of THESHOEMAKER’SSTUDIO, I invite you to explore and experience Italy from a native's perspective.

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During our eight (8) days and seven (7) nights together, you will experience Le Marche, some of its neighboring towns/villages, and other more familiar attractions. You will discover some of the incredible sights, activities, food, wines, and products the locals hold dear. I will share with you some of the many hidden treasures that have been shared with me over my years of visiting and working in Italy. 

 

This amazing excursion offers incredible shopping opportunities. Le Marche region is renowned for its production of footwear, accessories and apparel, and you will receive access to the outlets and factory stores of some of the most recognizable brands in the world, Armani, Gucci, Prada, Moncler, and Sergio Rossi to name a few. We will also introduce you to other incredible brands you may have never heard of. 

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In addition to receiving a bit of retail therapy, you will get to live out your inner designer. You will be my guest in my factory where my team and I will assist you in customizing footwear, bags, and other accessories from my latest collections (one item per participant is included with your trip).

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Interested in going it alone for a bit, doing something more independently? No problem. We will happily assist you with coordinating your optional activities. 

 

Participant Profile:

Any fun-loving, roll-with-the-punches, mature 21-year-old+ with a great zeal for life, a curious spirit, and looking for an unforgettable authentic Italian experience. A love of shoes, accessories, and shopping is optional, but celebrated.

 

Excursion Dates:

Sunday September 10, 2023 through Sunday September 17, 2023 (8 Days/7 Nights)

 

Costs:

- $5,500/participant (2 participants; one double or two single bed COMFORT ROOM) (Standard Package)

- $5,850/participant (1 participant; one double bed COMFORT ROOM)

- $6,150/participant (2 participants; one king or 2 single bed JR. SUITE) (Subject to availability)

- $6,800/participant (1 participant; one king bed JR SUITE) (Subject to availability)

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Space is limited to 8 participants, so reserve your spot by booking today...

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What is Included

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+ Double-occupancy lodging

(upgraded accommodations are also available)

+ Ground transportation (arrivals, departures & during group activities)

+ All group outings/trips

+ Most meals (see itinerary)

+ One (1) customized item per participant 

+ Assistance coordinating and/or booking independent activities (at participant's expense)

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What is NOT Included

 

x Flights

x Any meals or beverages not mentioned

x Gratuities

x Travel Insurance 

OUR TEAM

 

Ron Donovan (Host)

 

Ron is a veteran shoemaker and the founder of THESHOEMAKERSSTUDIO and RONDONOVAN Footwear & Accessories. For years, he has been splitting his time between New York City and Italy, where he produces his collections. Ron fell absolutely in love with Le Marche the very first time he visited. Ron’s luxury collections have been featured in some of the world’s leading fashion publications, sold through some of the world’s most exclusive retailers and have been worn by some of the most recognizable names internationally. Ron also speaks to and teaches shoemaking to various groups, organizations and institutions, including the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.) and Parsons School of Design in New York City.

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Roberto Gabrielli (Guide/Concierge)

 

Roberto is a native of Le Marche. Having grown up in the town of Tolentino, he is an authority on this amazing region and all it has to offer. A former profession volleyball player, he has also spent time living in London and the US. After returning to Le Marche, Roberto has established a long and successful career in the service industry. This charismatic quintessential Italian gentleman is well-known and respected and thrives on sharing his knowledge of and helping others experience his homeland.

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LE MARCHE' REGION / THE TOWN OF Civitanova

 

The Le Marche region is one of Italy's most hidden gems. Located about mid-country on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea, this area is characterized by breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills in all shades of green, medieval hilltop towns, tiny villages with beautiful houses, kilometers of vineyards and olive trees, beautiful beaches along the blue sea, wonderful food, and exquisite wine. The views and colors are amazing.

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Much of the region is still relatively tourist-free and uncrowded. In every town and village, you can feel soul and roots of the people. They are nuanced by their genuine and authentic atmosphere, traditions food, landscapes, and nature.

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Our homebase for this excursion will be the town of Civitanova Marche. Juxtaposed between the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea to the east and the Apennine Mountains to the west, Civitanova Marche and its neighboring towns and villages are well known and revered for their production of footwear, accessories, and apparel, they reflect the essence of "Made in Italy". At the same time, Civitanova Marche stands out for its strong seaside activity. It is an environment rich in naturalistic and historic cultural wonders that offer extremely suggestive, engaging, and immersive experiences.

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THE CUISINE & THE WINE 

 

Your time in Le Marche would not be complete without experiencing the authentic cuisine of the area. The foundation of life in Le Marche centers around family, friends and social interaction. Mealtimes, food and wine are primary components of these activities. The region boasts fresh locally-caught seafood, organic meats, fruits and vegetables, and truffles from local farms. Over the course of the week, we will share with you some of the best culinary experiences Italy has to offer. So, prepare your palate, regional specialties and delicacies await.

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THE ACCOMODATIONS

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Our home away from home will be the newly renovated MIRAMARE Hotel. Located in the heart of the Civitanova Marche, on the main square and less than 100 meters from the beach, this historic hotel is one of the most important reference points of the city. In addition to its beautiful decor, the quaint MIRAMARE is renowned for its exceptional standard of hospitality, making it an ideal aspect of our experiences.

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The following are the accommodation options:

- 2 participants; one double or two single bed (included)

- 1 participant; one double bed COMFORT ROOM ($350 upgrade/participant)

- 2 participants; one king or 2 single bed JR. SUITE ($650 upgrade/participant)

(Subject to availability)

- 1 participant; one king bed JR SUITE ($1,300 upgrade/participant)

(Subject to availability)

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