Frequently Asked Questions
​Who Can Apply?

Our programs are open to all ages 18+. You must be fluent in English in order to communicate with the rest of the group and hold a valid passport. We don't expect you to be fluent or conversational in Italian. You are responsible for maintaining your physical health and well being by getting enough sleep, minimizing risky activities, and notifying all staff of any health concerns. Participants with potentially life-threatening conditions are discouraged from traveling abroad without the written approval from a doctor. Participants must be physically able to participate in hours of walking and standing during activities, lessons, and group outings. We will do our best to accommodate to any participants with physical / mobility differences. The Food Gap welcomes participants from all walks of life and encourages people from diverse backgrounds to apply. We expect participants to be punctual and to be aware of meeting times and to make an effort to never be late for group outings or activities. Participants will be asked to leave the program if they engage in bullying, harassment, or violence of any kind.

​What if I have dietary restrictions?
 

We work with Spannocchia to accommodate almost all food restrictions. There are exceptions, but we work with our students on a case-by-case basis to make sure every member of our community is well fed. Spannocchia often is able to make meals gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan at request and Florence has a plethora of gluten free and vegan options.

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How do I reserve my spot in a program?

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Once we receive your application and application fee, we'll arrange a phone conversation to get to know you and your goals better. Then, we'll offer you a spot in the program if one is available and email enrollment papers. In order to hold your spot, you will need to pay 50% of your program cost up front. Once you submit your paperwork, we'll update you along the way with tips and assist with booking flights. We'll also send an email to introduce the group before our departure and contact information for our staff. We will help arrange transportation to and from Spannocchia and a member of our staff will always meet you at the Siena train station. 

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What is your refund policy?

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We provide a full refund if you withdraw your spot in our program before 90 days prior to the program. If you drop out within 60 days, you will receive 50% of your cost back. Then, if you cancel within 30 days of the program, you will not receive a refund. We make changes to this rule on a case-by-case basis in the event of emergency or disaster and always strive to help in the event of unforeseeable circumstances. If The Food Gap cancels a program for any reason we will provide you a full refund.

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What is housing like?
 

In Siena, you'll stay in accommodations on the Spannocchia property within walking distance of all activities. Housing at Spannocchia is intentionally rustic but very comfortable. You will have access to a private or shared bathroom and in some cases a kitchenette. If you opt for a single room you will have complete privacy for the duration of the program. If you opt to share a room, we will match you with another member of the group who most closely aligns with your needs and preferences. We will introduce all roommate pairs before the trip to get to know each other and discuss items to bring and roommate standards and expectations. We expect all adult participants to handle disputes and cohabitation respectfully and professionally. You can explore pictures of housing on spannocchia.org. In Florence, our housing is at a local hotel or bed + breakfast, which typically includes breakfast + room service.

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Is the program suitable for people with mental health challenges?

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Yes and no. We provide a close-knit, non-judgmental, and honest environment to make sure each participant feels safe and happy. However, we are not mental health professionals, and you should choose to challenge yourself  at your own discretion. Traveling and going out of your comfort zone is not for everyone, and pushing your limits is not always healthy. Please arrange with your therapist or mental health provider to prepare accordingly for the trip, and be extra kind and cautious with your brain.

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Do I need to bring a camera?

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No - we recommend you bring a DSLR if you have one for best results during our photography classes. However, you can always use a camera phone if you don't have access to one. We also provide all painting supplies but you're welcome to bring extra paints, pencils, or sketchpads for your downtime. We also have experience with film cameras and can recommend places in Florence to buy film!

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