Life Beyond the Room

08/23/2024

Experience Sicily's stunning landscapes, coveted volcanic wines and culinary traditions. 🌋🍷

Join us for an extraordinary journey with our one-of-kind Sicily Wine & Wellness Trip!

SEPTEMBER 22-29, 2025

On this sensorial itinerary, we will explore the hidden treasures of Etna and the enchanting Aeolian Islands through all of our senses.

From the sacred grape harvest to a sunset dinner aboard our private boat, we will witness three of Sicily's epic volcanos, Etna, Stromboli and Vulcano.

This 8-day adventure is the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

What’s Included?

3 nights at Barone di Villagrande on Mt. Etna
4 nights at Therasia Resort & Spa on Vulcano
Grape harvest and wine-making activities
Guided visits to Catania, Taormina & its Greek Theater
Street food tasting, cooking class, and Michelin-starred dinner
Sailing adventure with snorkeling
Guided Etna hike
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
Private transfers for all activities & airport transfers
LBR facilitator and translator

This trip is limited to 10 people so secure your spot now and discover the best Sicily has to offer!

08/16/2024

This is what makes what we do so fulfilling and rewarding!

We are honored to have been a part of your unforgettable journey through Italy, and we look forward to welcoming you back for the next adventure!

08/11/2024

Our Azores small group trip concluded last week. What a trip!

After São Miguel we explored Pico high and low, summiting its challenging, iconic peak, cruising at sea level to spot s***m whales, pilot whales, spotted dolphins and Risso's dolphins, and diving below the waves where we encountered other local residents!

Our lovely group bonded as we shared delicious Azorean food and wonderful white wine from UNESCO protected vineyards and recalled the discoveries of the day.

We will be returning next year, June 13-23 2025. We can't wait!

Join us for an amazing Azorean adventure on this spectacular volcanic archipelago!

08/01/2024

We're half way through our Awakening Azores small group trip!

In São Miguel, we've had a chance to snorkel in the spectacular islet Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, hike and paddle board the iconic twin crater lakes of Setes Cidades, bike ride through the caldera of Furnas and indulge in the freshest seafood and traditional cozido stew, topped with the most interesting tea tasting we've ever had: volcanic purple tea!

We look forward to continuing our Azorean adventure as we head to our favorite island and prepare to ascend the majestic Pico volcano!




If the Azores are on your bucket list, we will be launching our 2025 small group trip dates soon so stay tuned!

08/01/2024

We're half way through our Awakening Azores small group trip!

In São Miguel, we've had a chance to snorkel in the spectacular islet Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, hike and paddle board the iconic twin crater lakes of Setes Cidades, bike ride through the caldera of Furnas and indulge in the freshest seafood and traditional cozido stew, topped with the most interesting tea tasting we've ever had: volcanic purple tea!

We look forward to continuing our Azorean adventure as we head to our favorite island and prepare to ascend the majestic Pico volcano!

If the Azores are on your bucket list, we will be launching our 2025 small group trip dates soon so stay tuned!

07/19/2024

For their destination wedding in Italy, Whitney and Max turned to LBR for our depth of knowledge of the country to have their dream wedding turned into reality.
We received a heartfelt testimonial from them that captured the essence of what we give to every couple who entrusts us with designing their special day 💞

07/16/2024

Our team had an incredible trip to Cape Town, coming away transformed and bonded as a community. Each of us were deeply touched by the people we met and the stories they shared about life in South Africa. We explored the history of apartheid and the ongoing challenges for equality.

Organized with The Ministry Collaborative, this trip aimed to provide contextual learning and rejuvenation for ministry leaders. Originally intended for the Holy Land, we crafted this alternative itinerary due to recent geopolitical events, still ensuring spiritual renewal and cultural immersion.

We enjoyed spectacular views from Table Mountain and indulged in diverse South African cuisine, from Cape Malay samoosas to regional wines. Engaging with local community leaders, artisans and non-profit organizations allowed our group a unique insight into the social fabric of a post-apartheid Cape Town.

We are grateful for our partnership, which allows us to share authentic South Africa and broaden perspectives through meaningful travel. This transformative journey will remain with us always.

07/14/2024

Slow Venice ✨

After an arrival, rejuvenating nap in our favorite boutique hotel, we took a slow passeggiata followed by a delightful dinner in Canareggio, a tranquil and authentic neighborhood where most Venetians still live.

The following morning, our wonderful guide Silvia, along with our water taxi captained by Sebastiano, met us at our hotel at 9:30 and took us on a leisure boat ride around the city before heading to Murano, where we witnessed glass blowing from a 6th generation business. We tried to blow the glass and it broke almost immediately. So much appreciation for these incredible artists!

Afterwards, we headed to Burano where we saw Napoleon handkerchief in the private collection of one of only 40 remaining lace artisans on the island.

Lunch followed before heading back to the hotel for another restful afternoon.

When we travel, we chose fewer, more immersive experiences that support local business and preserve centuries-old traditions, rather than trying to see it all. Less is always more and those rich memories will remain with us forever!

07/09/2024

We are beyond grateful for the opportunity of having planned an incredible destination wedding for this gorgeous couple in our favorite place in Italy, Sicily!

A special thanks to Lauren Lynn for connecting us, to our incredible team for your hard work and passion, to our rockstar wedding planner sofiagangi e most importantly to you Max and Whitney for entrusting us with your most special day!

We look forward to continuing growing and learning as we plan our next destination wedding for a beautiful Atlanta-based couple in May of 2025!

07/04/2024

What is Sensorial Travel™?

"Sensorial Travel is the experience of a place through all of your five senses."

Watch this video to discover the role that Life Beyond the Room plays in connecting discerning travelers with unique, authentic experiences that value slowness, connection and presence.

07/03/2024

07/01/2024

Our team has led many group trips through Sicily, but none quite like this. We recently had the opportunity to facilitate a uniquely immersive trip through Eastern Sicily with The Ministry Collaborative. This group's purpose was to provide contextual learning as well as rest and rejuvenation for leaders in ministry.

Originally these cohorts were meant to travel to the Holy Land, but in light of recent geopolitical events, our team was tasked with providing an alternative itinerary which could still provide the same level of spiritual rejuvination and cultural immersion.

We are grateful to have such an amazing partner who allows for this kind of immersion trip where we get to share the real Sicily with folks who are eager to learn about different cultures and broaden their perspectives through meaningful travel.

06/28/2024

Meet Elisabete, a second-generation Azorean who, after living on a ship for five years, decided to return to the Azores and dedicate her life to rural tourism, welcoming visitors to the incredible Adega do Fogo where our small group will be heading next month.

And Nilton and Steffi, Pico mountain guides who are passionate about sustainable tourism and protecting the beautiful nature they're lucky to call home.

Join Athena, Jett Hattaway and Karen Costa Hattaway on this once-in-a-lifetime itinerary and meet the amazing people who are dedicating their lives to preserving culture and tradition in such a pristine corner of the world. We only have one room left!

To learn more about the wonderful people we'll encounter and the places we will visit, head to our blog: The Faces and Places of the Azores or DM us to receive the full itinerary!

https://lifebeyondtheroom.com/travel/the-places-and-faces-of-the-azores/

06/05/2024

Check out what this traveler had to say about her experience in Puglia and Sicily with us!

05/31/2024

Nestled on the shores of Lake Bracciano just 40 min from Rome, Vigna Caio Relais features sprawling views of the volcanic lake framed by the historic castle in the backdrop.

The old residence has been transformed into a unique countryside escape which celebrates the character of the medieval community through its warm, cosy aesthetic, local cuisine and amazing wine selection.

With only 16 rooms, Vigna Caio provides a peaceful and exclusive home base from which to explore the beautiful countryside and medieval villages of the Lazio region, as well as enjoy day trips to the Eternal City of Rome.

Contact us today for special rates and experiences at this one of a kind accommodation!

04/29/2024

Embark on a sacred wellness journey through the French countryside, led by yoga instructor and healer Christine Nicole Provine. In the pristine tranquility of an ancient farm overlooking a gorge, wake to stunning views, birdsong, and daily practices of caring for your body, mind, and soul.

Celebrate the abundance of harvest season in the heart of Burgundy, staying in a medieval residence restored into a countryside oasis which will delight and rejuvenate your senses of pleasure, playfulness, and well-being.

We’ve selected two stunning locations for this special journey. Each accommodation only has 5 rooms, making this a truly intimate experience with bountiful spaciousness, beauty, and comfort.

September 11-18, 2024

Offering:
Daily yoga & meditation practices
Sound massage
Boat trip down the gorge river Tarn
Biking through Chablis vineyards
Authentic French cuisine
Wine tasting
Nordic bath & sauna
Hiking along the gorge
Unforgettable views

Book now for rejuvenation and connection!
https://bit.ly/3Uijr8p

04/23/2024

Traveling is all about people! (And the food and wine they make 😆)

Yes, you can have a beautiful location with 5-star amenities, breathtaking views, on-demand service but at the end of the day, what you’ll remember the most is the people you’ve met and those whom you shared those experiences with.

We had such an incredible time during our FAM trip to Puglia and look forward to the next adventure!

Grazie mille for being such wonderful advisors, travelers and friends! 🙏
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04/18/2024

If Puglia has been on your mind, now is the time to plan your adventure! The Italian region of Puglia is a haven for slow travel. It is a location where you can truly immerse your senses, and it has so much to offer, including:

🌿Farm-to-table delights, like extra virgin olive oil provided by centuries-old olive trees.

🌟The warmth of Puglian hospitality and boutique masserie (farmhouse) accommodations.

🏖Floating on the shimmering turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

Get started with your personally curated trip to this distinctive destination, or reserve your spot on our 2025 small group trip. Link in bio.

Puglia awaits, ready to captivate your heart and soul.

04/11/2024

📍 Civita di Bagnoregio

One of our favorite places to spend a night or two on our way from Rome to the Val d’Orcia, and a paradise for hiking enthusiasts!

Come discover this ancient Etruscan village with us!

04/09/2024

🇵🇹 Join our Awakening Azores adventure in the heart of the Atlantic!🌊
JULY 27-AUG. 5, 2024

This small group trip will take you on a sensorial journey through three of the stunning Azorean islands where crystal-clear waters meet the deep blue sky, and volcanic vineyards dot the landscape.

Sensorial experiences include:

✨Hiking around the iconic twin-crater lakes
✨Snorkeling in a sunken crater pool
✨Biking through natural hot springs
✨Ascending the majestic Pico volcano
✨Diving and sailing with marine life
✨Exclusive spa hotel with mountain and ocean views
✨Cooking on geothermal vents
✨Sipping volcanic wine

Join us on this unforgettable voyage and awaken your senses to the power of nature. Book your spot now!

More info: https://bit.ly/4aJytus

04/04/2024

Thank you Lauren for your kind words!
We are honored to have been a part of your journey and we look forward to welcoming you back for the next adventure!

04/01/2024

Set on the hillside overlooking the stunning UNESCO town of Modica, this unique albergo diffuso offers a peaceful oasis to relax and soak in the baroque beauty of Modica.

Owner Marco, originally from Milan, fell in love with Modica 20 years ago and decided to relocate to this magical town and bring a series of abandoned houses back to life.

Instead of one building, the hotel is composed of multiple small houses, each lovingly restored with natural materials respecting the land and following Sicilian traditions.

Here, you can relax in the lush gardens, enjoy a farm-to-fork al fresco breakfast, and indulge in the slow, sweet life - La Dolce Vita!

03/27/2024

Explore our 2025 Small Group Trips in Italy! 🇮🇹

From the ancient Etruscan Wine Trails 🍷 to the secluded paradise of Secret Sardegna🌊, uncover hidden treasures and unforgettable experiences.
Immerse yourself in Italy's diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.
Dive into the Secrets of Southern Italy with Puglia & Matera, or escape to the untamed beauty of the Italian Dolomites or Mount Etna.

To learn more about each of our curated trips, read the article on our blog! 🇮🇹

Life Beyond the Room’s 2025 small group trips offer a meticulously crafted journey into new regions of the world. Learn more.

03/25/2024

The region of Lazio offers more than the Eternal City of Rome. Delectable cuisine and wine, medieval castles, glistening lakes, black sand beaches, breathtaking hiking and mountain biking trails are just a few of the many things this rich region offers.

Strategically located 40 minutes from the FCO airport, the port of Civitavecchia and the city of , offers an ideal base for those who enjoy nature and tranquillity within a small town, yet like to explore the Eternal City on occasion.

Vigna Caio Relais & Spa is a beautiful hotel, framed by the lake on one side and the castle on the other. Both the historic center and the lake are within walking distance of the property. An onsite garden provides fresh, organic ingredients to the restaurant and a spa, complete with pool, sauna and Turkish bath promises a rejuvenating stay.

03/21/2024

Even in a place as frequented as the Amalfi Coast, there is still authenticity to be discovered.

This week we were lucky not only to catch gorgeous spring weather (some folks were swimming) but more importantly to hear the stories of winemakers, chefs and limoncello producers who proudly shared their craft and love for their land with us.

Instead of visiting 20 hotels, we chose to experience a few and take the time to connect with people behind them.

We also had the most delicious salad of all times made with limone pane, a type of sweet lemon which can be savored with nothing but little olive oil, salt and mint. And of course a glass of superb local wine.

These are the type of experiences we are curating for you! ✨

03/19/2024

🍇✨ 2025 Small Group Travel Adventures Unveiled! 🌍✈️

Etruscan Wine Trails: Viticultural Journey Through Tuscany & Umbria

📅 September 14-21, 2025

🍷 Step into the ancient world of the Etruscan Wine Trails with our Viticultural Journey through Tuscany and Umbria. This curated trip offers an immersive journey into the rich history and winemaking traditions of these unique regions. Wander through the vineyard-draped hillsides during the Annual Harvest, where centuries-old traditions of winemaking have remain unchanged for generations.

Secret Sardegna: Cagliari and the Unspoiled South

📅 September 14-22, 2025

🏖️ Experience Sensorial Travel in stunning Sardinia! From Cagliari's medieval charm to the island's southern tip Faro Capo Spartivento, indulge in local traditions, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. A stay at a unique lighthouse hotel promises unmatched views and top-notch hospitality.

Wine & Wellness: Etna & The Aeolian Islands

📅 September 22-29, 2025

🌋 The perfect mix of exploration and relaxation through stunning Sicily its enchanting Aeolian Islands. Hike Mount Etna, snorkel in azure waters, and savor Sicilian delights. Join the ancient grape harvest tradition and blend your own Etna wine.

Sensorial Dolomites: An Alpine Fall Escape

📅 September 22-29, 2025

⛰️ Embark on an Alpine journey through historic chalets, mountain villages, and iconic hiking trails. Delight in Ladin cuisine, sip on local wines, and indulge in outdoor adventures. A paradise for nature lovers!

Puglia & Matera: Secrets of Southern Italy

📅 October 5-12, 2025

🏰 Explore Matera's ancient cave dwellings before venturing into picturesque Puglia. Cliff towns, olive groves, and UNESCO heritage sites await. From Alberobello's trulli to Lecce's baroque charm, you will experience the essence of Southern Italy! 🚗🌊

These trips are limited to 8-10 people so reserve your room now and experience the authentic Italy you've always dreamed of!

03/18/2024

Happy birthday to us!

Today we celebrate 6 years of preserving culture and tradition through meaningful, sustainable and exceptional travel. It has been our privilege to connect our travelers with off the beaten path places immersed in authentic experiences.

We are grateful to our partners, employees and of course our travelers who continue to embrace slow, intentional travel abroad. We look forward to another year of exciting people, places and experiences as we expand our offerings through both custom trips and our collection of small group trips. Join us for your next Sensorial journey!

03/11/2024

What a weekend at the Travel & Adventure Show in Atlanta!

Life Beyond the Room co-founder Jett Hattaway had an opportunity to speak on the topic of slow travel, sharing his love story with authentic Italy.

"When we slow down, we aren’t as occupied with where we’ve been or where we are going, but we can come to appreciate where we are. And that is where true satisfaction is found."

Thank you all for the love and support as we continue to achieve our mission of preserving culture and tradition through meaningful, sustainable and exceptional travel!

03/05/2024

Come see LBR at the Travel & Adventure Show March 9th - 10th in Atlanta, GA. If you're a travel enthusiast, this show is for you. The Travel & Adventure show has helped connect 2.1+ million travel enthusiasts with 4,500+ unique travel brands. Jett Hattaway will be speaking March 9th from 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm on Authentic Italy - Preserving Culture & Tradition Through Meaningful Travel.

https://travelshows.com/shows/atlanta