EXTRA GOLDEN DAYS ON THE ISLAND OF ISCHIA:

For Women Only

October 26-30, 2025

led by Author Susan Van Allen

Susan exceeded my expectations! Would love to tour with her (and the ladies) again!
-Tina, Colorado

Join Susan Van Allen, author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, for dreamy days on a Bay of Naples treasure: the island of Ischia, where travelers are welcomed in warm, southern Italian style. Since the days of the Roman Empire, Ischia has been praised for its mineral-rich thermal springs that make visitors feel marvelous. You will  “take the waters” at our home base—a glamourous hotel/spa—and venture off to discover the island’s lush gardens, enchanting villages, amazing castle, and vineyard-covered mountains.

These Extra Golden Days are ideal to add on to an Italy itinerary–a chance to discover a gem many travelers miss, with insiders’ guidance. The 4-night itinerary is designed for a full immersion into authentic island pleasures, culture, and history. Mornings are on your own to indulge in Italian spa traditions or hiking adventures, and afternoon/evenings are group experiences, where with Susan and wonderful women you’ll discover Ischia’s natural beauties, fascinating past, soulful spirit, and extraordinary food and wine.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Ischia / Marvelous La Mortella Gardens and Classical Music Concert
Day 2: Discover Ischia’s Enchantments including Castello Aragonese and Sant’ Angelo at Sunset
Day 3: Taste Ischia’s Wines and have a Buona Sera in the Village of Forio
Day 4: La Dolce Vita Morning / Farewell Dinner in Napoli
Day 5: Arrivederci…

October 26 – October 30, 2025
$3690 per person / single room
$3190 per person / double room
$350 Deposit to Reserve,
Final Payment due July 18, 2025
3 Spots Left –
Email Susan for more info or to reserve your spot, 100placesinitaly@gmail.com


CLICK HERE to READ MORE about
What’s So Wonderful About the Island of Ischia


For more information, contact Susan at 100placesinitaly@gmail.com

Full Itinerary:

*Itinerary subject to change. If changes must be made because of weather or unforeseen circumstances, replacement events will be equally as awesome as above.

*Activity Level: We explore at a leisurely pace, always leaving time to stop and taste the prosecco. Comfortable walking shoes are necessary, as the villages we visit are pedestrian only, and the La Mortella Garden we tour is terraced and has steps. Also there are ferry rides, so precautions should be taken for those with motion sickness.

What’s Included:

  • Entertaining hosting by author Susan Van Allen, focusing on Italy’s celebration of all things female
  • 3 nights at 5* Albergo Regina Isabella in Ischia in Superior Seaview Rooms
  • 1 night at 4-star Hotel Santa Lucia, Naples in Classic Rooms
  • Free use of thermal pools and gym at Albergo Regina Isabella
  • 15% Discount on Spa Treatments at Albergo Regina Isabella
  • Transportation by private taxi-van and public ferry, including private departure transfer from Naples hotel to airport or train station
  • Daily buffet breakfast at the hotel
  •  1 multi-course lunch with wine
  • 1 wine tasting in Ischia
  • 3 multi-course dinners, wine included
  • Guided tour of Ischia, Castello Aragonese and La Mortella Gardens with classical music concert
  • Entrance to Castello Aragonese, La Mortella Gardens
  • Gratuities for all group activities, including guides, drivers, and restaurant staff
  • Charitable donation of $25 to UNICEF

What’s Not Included:

  • Airfare
  • Spa Treatments
  • Meals not included in “what’s included”
  • Fees for Optional La Dolce Vita Mornings (Taxi, entrance, and guide fees)
  • Gratuities for private transfer drivers and hotel staff
  • Travel Insurance (Recommended)
  • Everything not mentioned under “the itinerary includes”

La Dolce Vita!

What a wonderful week. Susan’s attention to detail, expertise and genuine love for Italy was infectious and made the week so special…”
–Diane, South Carolina

The week is expertly designed and hosted by Susan Van Allen, with a balance of planned group and free-time independent experiences.

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A Toast to Golden Weeks

Deanna, New York

Dream Come True

“My dearest Susan, My deepest appreciation for making our trip to Southern Italy a dream come true. Although I had been there some time ago, nothing compared with the wonderful time we had with you. Not only as our guide, but as a new dear friend, you made the entire trip an experience I will never forget. Each one of the girls became like sisters. Your beauty, charm, humor, and kindness was more than I ever expected. I haven’t stopped talking about our trip.”

Southern Italy
Diana, Oregon

Perfection

“Perfection! You gave us what you promised and then some. I think the biggest compliment was that I didn’t want to leave”

Southern Italy
Barbara, Tacoma, Washington

Highlight of My Life

That week will always be one of the highlights of my life. It was special in so many ways–being in beautiful Italy again, sharing it with my daughters and friends and Susan making it so special. Susan’s warm hospitality and love and knowledge of Italy is what makes it special and memorable.
I hope I can join another Golden week with you again in the future.

Peggy, Ontario, Canada

Personal Service

“Love the personal service all along the way…Susan takes us all on a journey that brings every aspect of Italy to life!”

Italian Riviera & Florence
Liz, New Jersey

Excellent Trip

“The Golden Week in Santa Margherita Ligure was terrific. Susan put an excellent trip together, filled with many interesting tours seasoned with a variety that everyone would enjoy. Her shopping, dining, and other recommendations were always to perfection. It was like we all become a family during our stay.”

Italian Riviera
Patti, Massachusetts

Extraordinary

This is an extraordinary tour. You feel like a privileged Venetian insider when you spend a Golden Week in Venice with Susan Van Allen, visiting both the must-see sights and the hidden treasures of this beautiful city. And Susan, an extraordinary guide, makes everyone feel relaxed, as she shares her love and deep knowledge of Italy with the group.

Gayle, Arizona

Feast For Our Senses

“I absolutely adored every enthralling, enlightening aspect of my Golden Week experience in Tuscany–a glorious time of female bonding and fun, as well as a feast of our senses absorbing it all!”

Tuscany
Denise, New Jersey

One in a Million

Susan Van Allen is truly “One in a Million”!! Susan puts her all into designing the most creative itineraries with exceptional attention to every detail. She cares so much about her clients’ individual needs and makes every woman feel like an Italian Princess. Warm, Caring, Funny, Intelligent… a true expert on everything Italy. My Mother and I have taken two trips with her so far and cannot express how much we loved everything about them! I would recommend Susan to everyone who wants the best experience of Italy and to have those memories to cherish forever.

Joye, New Hampshire

Magical

Susan Van Allen’s warm, friendly and very personable manner was spread amongst each of us. Her unfailing enthusiasm and personal attention made my Golden Week in Venice unforgettable. I will always remember my magical trip to Venice.

Joyce, Virginia

Wonderful Trip

“What a wonderful trip. Susan made it all so enjoyable and fun – and always with the exclamation point to finish each day. Our group managed to mesh very well. It is always nice to let people go at their own pace.”

Florence
Pamela, Boston

Exceptional

I’ve been to Venice many times and wanted to experience it again on this trip with my sister. Susan created an exceptional itinerary that gave me a deeper, insiders’ experience of Venice — meeting her friends, including chefs, artisans, and a passionate local guide. The baroque hotel and private boat rides added to the beautiful fun.

Helen, California

Designed By An Artist

“This trip was clearly designed by an artist–everything flowed along beautifully, a delicious transformational experience of La Dolce Vita!”

Tuscany
Barbara, North Carolina

Loved

“Loved every minute.”

Southern Italy
Mary, Florida

The Best

“Susan was just the best. She did a super job. I look forward to taking another trip with her.”

Southern Italy
Maureen, New Jersey

Wonderful

“My Golden Week experience was wonderful…more than I had anticipated. Everything was so well planned, including all of my transportation arrangements. Susan helped to make our experience pleasurable as well as memorable. I would recommend this tour to anyone looking for a cultural experience while the enjoying the full flavor of Italy.”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Debbie, Connecticut

Thoughtful Planning

“Thank you for such a wonderful and memorable trip. The tour far exceeded my expectations and that was primarily due to your thoughtful planning and meticulous execution. You took care of every detail and I just loved that you made sure everyone was always taken care of. The women on the trip were all lovely and, of course, that added to the positive experience.”

Southern Italy
Jan, Montana

Loved every minute!

Loved every minute!

Gale, Vermont

Warm As The Sun

“After spending several days with Susan I came to realize her love for Italy is as deep as the Mediterranean, she is as warm as the sun that sets in Capri…”

Southern Italy
Beth, New York

Wonderful!

This trip was unlike any trip I’ve ever been on. From the booklet that Susan sent prior to the trip to our daily text messages, everything was organized and well-planned — plus Susan kept us informed every step of the way. Even when the weather upended our plans, Susan pivoted and provided wonderful alternatives. Being able to stay in one hotel — and what a wonderful hotel it was! — provided us with a familiar home base from which to set out on our daily adventures.

But the best was spending a week in the company of a group of compatible women — we came from different backgrounds and perspectives but we blended into a group of women who enjoyed each others’ company. Plus, it was a perfect number of travelers — not too many and not too few. Thank you, Susan, for creating this experience and for such great memories! I hope I can join you on another trip in the future!

Deb, New Jersey

Surpasses My Expectations

“My week far surpassed my expectations. I can’t imagine a more beautiful place to visit and will definitely go back. The group was wonderful. Susan was terrific and I had tears in my eyes saying goodbye to Fiorella. A truly wonderful experience for me.”

Southern Italy
Kim, California

Trip Was Fabulous

“The BEST way to begin retirement was to be with Susan and two of my close friends from childhood in Italy!! Overall the trip was fabulous!! Susan is the BEST, so knowledgeable, so helpful, so gracious, and immediately a close friend!”

Southern Italy
Lisa, Florida

Great trip!

Susan did an excellent job planning and executing the trip. Her extensive knowledge of the area and the people made this a memorable experience. Susan provided us with very knowledgeable local guides that enriched our experience. We also had plenty of time to do some exploring on our own. This was a great trip.”

Diane, South Carolina

Wonderful Week

“What a wonderful week. Susan’s attention to detail, expertise and genuine love for Italy was infectious and made the week so special. We made new friends and had amazing experiences.”

Southern Italy
Janice, Massachusetts

Incredible Planning and Attention to Detail

I thought the trip was fabulous! Susan’s planning and attention to detail were incredible. Her desire to help each of us feel welcome, included, and safe was evident in everything she did.
I also appreciated the choice of places and activities that would appeal to women, including opportunities to shop. Each of the restaurants was excellent and the choice of menu for our meals together was varied and delicious.

While I really enjoyed all the sites and the fabulous guides that you hired, what I valued most was my times at meals and walking and talking with all the wonderful women whose company I so enjoyed.
The plate that I painted has a place of honor in my home as it reminds me of all the fun we had. And I love wearing the gloves and the jewelry that I purchased. Thank you so much for taking me shopping! I loved the trip.

Dee, New York

Awesome, as Always

“Awesome, as always! (Venice 2018)
I’d go on vacation with Susan anytime. She really works hard to make sure everyone is safe and having a good time. The food, the shopping… wish I was still there.”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Bonnie, Texas

Unforgettable Memory

“It was an incredible experience to see Italy through our awesome host Susan Van Allen. The work behind the scenes that takes place to ensure an unforgettable memory for me was etched in my journal and heart. So thankful I said Yes to this trip!” 

Golden Week in Florence and the Italian Riviera
Laura, Alabama

Perfect

“Susan made me feel like every detail of this week was planned for me personally. I did have reservations about going on a scheduled tour, but was delighted to see the activities were not rigidly dictated by time constraints. I was not rushed through to keep to a strict schedule, but allowed enough time to enjoy each activity. I also appreciated the amount of free time that was built into the schedule. It allowed me to personalize my experience in this beautiful city. Perfect.”

Florence
Yvette, Virginia

Super Experience

“All in all, a super experience.”

Southern Italy
Susan, Virginia

Outstanding!

On a Golden Week with Susan, her love of Italy shines through in each activity. The guides she chooses are outstanding and their passion for Italy is contagious. The trips are worry free from the moment you land in this beautiful country until it is time to say goodbye to new friends. I highly recommend Golden Weeks in Italy.

Helena, New York

Trip Extraordinary

“Susan Van Allen is amazing, she went above and beyond to make this trip extraordinary.”

Southern Italy
Christine, California

A Great Time

“A great time traveling with Susan Van Allen, she takes great pride with her groups. I loved traveling with all the ladies and sharing this experience with all.”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Mickey, Massachusetts

My Dream Vacation

This has been my dream vacation. Susan Van Allen is the most thoughtful, caring and warm individual. She made all of us feel at home and was there to assist us in every way. I cannot praise her enough.

Homa, Maryland

Amazing!

This was my first tour and I was a little worried. But this trip was soooooo good and I am going to book Sicily in 2024. Our group was amazing! Fun fun fun!

Ginny, Connecticut

Loved

I loved how Susan blocked coffee breaks into the day, as well as aperitivi! I think the pacing is good on these trips—a nice balance.

Joyce, Virginia

Amazing

Susan is an amazing guide, and by the end of the week she is a good friend. I believe I would follow her anywhere. She sees to the needs of each person with care and makes sure that nothing is overlooked. She provides the best kind of unique travel experience. Sign me up for another!

Ellen, Montana

Great Trip

Great trip led by Susan! The group of women were diverse and fun to be with. We had a lot of laughter!

Barbara, Rhode Island

Spectacular

I’m still tingling from our amazing trip to southern Italy! I prayed it would be a wonderful experience and I got an amazing dream experience! The PLACE, the WONDERFUL WOMAN in our group, the perfect location of our hotel, my perfect travel companion–my niece Lori, all allowed for a spectacular and beautiful memory. Only Susan Van Allen could have made it all possible! She brought it all together for an Amazing Week! Thank you Susan!!!

Jolene, California

Enjoyed Ever Moment

“My thanks to Susan Van Allen for making her book come to life!!! I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this Golden Week. Susan’s heartfelt desire for everyone to enjoy their time was evident each and every day.”

Florence
Patti, Florida

Fabulous

This was a fabulous trip with a lovely group of women. The pace was perfect and the tours were amazing. I wouldn’t change a thing and would highly recommend any of the Golden Weeks with Susan – she thinks of everything and makes your week an awesome journey full of wonderful memories!

Nancy, Texas

It Was Great

“I will recommend this trip to anyone and would love to join Susan again for a trip….it was great!”

Southern Italy
Florence, Pennsylvania

Total Delight!

The entire trip was a total delight! Well organized, so many different adventures, people were wonderful!

Laurie, California

Great!

Susan was a great tour director! She was very organized, took care of us, and was very interested in getting to know each of us.

Sarah, New Mexico

First Class

“Susan made this trip First Class! My adventure to Venice this year was a solo trip. I met all the women along with Susan the first night. It was like Susan had hand picked each one of us to enjoy this experience together. We all became friendly right away. Each day sharing a meal, walking together, shopping, getting to know each other had created a special bond. We cared for one another, we watched out for one another throughout the whole week. By how the week unfolded, it was apparent that Susan had gone to great lengths to ensure our comfort, safety, and entertainment. I had an opportunity to learn to row a gondola. After the rowing lesson, I got off the boat taxi near the hotel- there was Susan- waiting for me. She was there making sure I was safe and interested to know my experience. I think I read on Susan’s website that when you take a tour with her you will feel like you’re traveling with your best friend. That’s a true statement. Can’t wait to do it again.”

Venice

Ready to Experience La Dolce Vita?

Say YES to this Adventure TODAY!
Space is limited and this tour Sells Out.

In Partnership with PERILLO TOURS, America’s Leading Tour Operator to Italy for over 70 years.

Contact Info

TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE FOR GOLDEN WEEKS, contact Christine at Perillo’s Italy Vacations, info@italyvacations.com

Would you like me to custom-design a Golden Week in Italy for you and your family or friends?

Would you like to arrive early or extend your Golden Days? Christine can arrange for discounted hotel rates and packages. Just ask!