Design A Workshop Common Questions & Andwers
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about hosting a workshop or retreat with Il Chiostro. If you have any additional questions that we have not addressed, let us know. We’ll get right back to you.
Why should I work with Il Chiostro? Couldn’t I plan the trip myself?
Planning and running a workshop in Italy is a lot of work. We take care of all of the details from the moment we agree to work together until you start your journey home. Il Chiostro provides the planning and logistical support you need to enjoy the trip and focus on what you do best – teaching!
Do you find students to fill the trip?
While you are responsible for filling the workshop spaces, we are happy to share ideas to help you promote your trip. Many group leaders successfully promote their workshops through teaching, online events, or personal networks. We also host all of the workshop listings on our website and share them in our newsletter and on social media. Your success in this venture is our number one goal.
How far in advance do I need to start planning a workshop with Il Chiostro?
Ideally, we’ll start working together at least 12 months before the workshop starts. That way, we have plenty of time to create a custom program for you, and you have time to fill the trip.
How many students or clients will I need for the workshop or retreat?
The number of students or clients varies depending on the workshop or retreat. The ideal number is 8-10, but we have some instructors who host larger groups.
Remember, it’s your workshop, so you’ll need to decide the number that works best for you (with our help of course!) and your teaching style.
Are overseas workshops a good way to grow my business?
Hosting a workshop or retreat in Italy is an excellent way to add an additional revenue stream to your business. The amount of revenue you earn on the trip is set by your per-student fee. During the trip planning process, we will explore the income opportunities available to you.
Will I need to pay for my flights and accommodations?
If you fill the agreed-upon number of guest spots, the cost of your flight, room and board, and instructor fee is built into the trip, so you have no out-of-pocket expenses before the workshop.
What if I don’t have an email list or a big social media following?
Il Chiostro will promote your trip on our social media channels and newsletter. However, you will primarily be responsible for filling the workshop spaces. It certainly helps to have an extensive email list or social media following, but some workshop leaders successfully promote the workshop while teaching, at events, or to their personal networks.
Do you only plan workshops in Italy?
We’re glad you asked! While Italy will always be our first love, and where we have the most experience, we also plan and execute workshops in other countries with our Il Chiostro Upside Down programs. We have hosted those in Chile, South Africa, Argentina, and New Zealand. We’ll also visit Cuba in 2023. We’d love to work with you in Italy, but if you have another idea, just let us know. We’d love to make it happen for you.
Do you offer virtual workshops?
During the pandemic, we started offering virtual workshops to help our workshop leaders create connections during that difficult time. It went so well that we decided to continue offering virtual workshops. Please let us know if you want to host a virtual workshop with Il Chiostro.
What if I don’t speak Italian, is language a problem?
We have a dedicated team of program managers who are native Italian speakers who will help you navigate the language. Each workshop is assigned a program manager and assistant program manager, so you and your guests will have no problem communicating during your trip.
How are flights handled?
Because students come from many different locations and sometimes wish to extend their stay, students make their flight arrangements. We designated a central meeting spot, and Il Chiostro takes over transportation within Italy from there.
Instructors’ Praise for Il Chiostro Workshops
“From my first contact with Linda who asked me to teach for Il Chiostro through to meeting Michael at the first workshop I did for Il Chiostro, I knew I was in the presence of genuine hosts and employers who care about people and helping them share authentic experiences.”
– Sheila Bender, Writing it Real
“I have been impressed over and over again with your professionalism and reliability, but your big hearts and sense of fun help everyone feel cared about and free to enjoy themselves. Thanks so much for allowing me and my participants to make so many wonderful memories in Italy!”
– Rebecca Zdybel, Rebecca Z Artist Studio Gallery
“I love Linda and Michael, as simple as that. Il Chiostro is truly a family, that nurtures and leaves each of its participants feeling the meaning and connection of the Italian word “Familia”. Linda and Michael, choose their staff with the utmost care and respect, so that each guest will be treated as if they are the ONLY guest and welcomed into the Il Chiostro Family.”
– Lynn Travis Stender, artist, painter, teacher