Thejanereeves Reviews 13

My husband and I had attended the “Timing Your Life with Astrology with Kelly Surtees” retreat in Tuscany, hosted by Radiant Jane Retreats. From the very first interaction, the communication with Jane was stellar, giving us complete confidence that we were in for an extraordinary experience. Jane and her staff patiently answered all our questions and provided excellent guidance on everything, including how to locate the bus at the Rome airport. Thanks to their support, our journey could not have gone more smoothly.

Transportation was seamless, and upon arriving at Fattoria del Colle, we were warmly greeted by Jane and Jesse. From that moment, it was evident this was going to be an amazing adventure! I could write pages about the breathtaking grounds, cozy accommodations, incredible food, and impeccable service, but to put it simply: every aspect of the retreat exceeded my expectations in the most delightful way.

That said, one situation nobody plans for is falling ill on a trip. Unfortunately, on Day 2 of the retreat, I tested positive for COVID. Being on a group trip, this was a game-changer. However, Jane immediately stepped in with unwavering grace and compassion. Despite managing a full tour, she assisted me with everything I needed to navigate being ill in a foreign country. Her calm, thoughtful approach turned a difficult situation into one where I felt supported and cared for at every turn.

It’s rare to feel so well looked after before, during, and after a tour, but Radiant Jane Retreats excels in this regard. While the retreat itself was exquisite in every sensory detail, the level of care and attention provided was truly above and beyond.

I’m deeply grateful for this experience and hope to join another Radiant Jane retreat in the near future—this time for the full journey!

Last spring I was part of a retreat with Jane and Heidi Zimmer and it was incredibly magical and memorable. As a co-host, Jane was so supportive, kind and compassionate the whole way through, from enrollment to the end of the retreat. I remember arriving at the retreat grounds and being blown away by the sheer beauty of the buildings, gardens and landscape. The truly wonderful thing about Tuscany is the simple, rustic elegance in its food, people and everyday rituals - everything is imbued with love. I can't imagine not being completely enchanted with the meals, the villa, the warm and welcoming staff, and Jane herself. Despite the fact that it rained the whole week, Jane and the staff worked hard behind the scenes at making sure that everyone had a good time, was comfortable and enjoyed the best the retreat and the villa could offer.

There was a lovely guest at the retreat I attended who was celiac and because I sat near her many times during the meals, I saw what she was served, and it was all thoughtfully prepared, and I remember her raving about the food. It was obvious that if the staff knew ahead of time what the dietary concerns of guests are, they try their loving best!

Traveling abroad can be stressful and unpredictable. There is always a threat of illness or bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Even so, the opportunity to retreat in such a beautiful place itself is a gift and a privilege, even if things don't always go our way. It's easy to focus on the disappointment and the frustration and squander the once-in-a-lifetime experience right in front of us.

I highly recommend Radiant Jane Retreats, it was my first retreat in Italy and I cannot express enough how wonderful it truly was, and how lucky I was to be able experience it with Jane.

Jane is a wise, wonderful, gifted teacher and guide. I attended her Italy retreat at Fattoria and had the most magical time. The food was mind-blowingly delicious every day. Jane planned the retreat to be the perfect mix of fun and sightseeing and relaxation. The accommodations are cozy Italian and the views out the window of the estate are spectacular. Jane’s expertise on meditation, yoga, and all things Italy makes her the perfect guide! She is kind, warm, fun, and funny, and I’m forever grateful I attended her Italy retreat!

Everything was amazing...the views, the food, the hosts, the other sweet souls on the retreat. The setting is exactly what I pictured when I dreamed of going to Tuscany! Being at Fattoria del Colle is like stepping back into a simpler time where the meals are easy-going and you're free to sit at the table long after the dishes have been cleared away. I took a daily walk in the nearby forest and vineyards and spent lazy afternoons by the pool. We were free to work as much or as little with the retreat materials as we wanted and I definitely took it easy, soaking up the setting. We did a day trip into Pienza which was fun as it's a lovely hilltop town but also it was great to come back 'home' to Fattoria after sightseeing. I enjoyed a private room/suite on retreat which I recommend as an introvert. ;) Plenty of social time in the other parts of the retreat.

I attended a retreat with Jane Reeves and Amy Won in Spring 2024. It was wonderful in every way. The Tuscan countryside setting paired with the history and charm of a woman-owned Italian winery (a rare thing) made the setting equally beautiful and remarkable. The accommodations were so comfortable and the food was delicious. The staff were helpful and attentive in every way. Jane curated and organized every aspect of the retreat so as guests we could simply enjoy. Our excursions were thoughtfully planned and the ease of having everything thought through for us is a wonderful gift. The retreat had a fabulous balance of programming, creativity and free time. Jane’s experience curating retreats shined through and flowed with ease. I have noticed that International travel can cause some people to set unrealistic expectations. You are not at home and therefore respecting and appreciating what is different about a time and place and people is part of the joy of travel and adventure. If you cannot be flexible, retreating abroad may not be a good choice for you. I embraced all of it with much gratitude for the outstanding experience and amazing memories. The communication from Jane pre-trip and during our stay was excellent. I highly recommend!!

Ciao Bella! What a fantastic time with Radiant Jane retreats in Tuscany! Jane is a fountain of knowledge and wisdom about all things Italy and the best ways to travel through it! Her relationship with the people who owned and worked at the retreat center was mutually warm and loving, much like Jane herself. The fun-loving energy spilled over to the group. I can’t imagine herding cats as a leader on a retreat! But Jane did just that with grace and aplomb. I felt very taken care of and so well-fed! Overall, it was a joyful experience, and I can’t wait to have it again. Thank you, Jane!

I had the pleasure of joining Jane on an astrology retreat in Tuscany. I can’t speak highly enough of this retreat and of Jane herself. Jane is loving, compassionate, humble, and a true wise woman. Being in her presence was such a JOY. Jane went above and beyond to create the best experience for everyone. The people, the setting, the energy... it felt like a fairytale experience. The food was authentically Italian, delicious, and more than enough! I feel like I was given a gift from the universe to spend time with Jane. This was truly a life-changing experience, and months later I still think about this retreat with such gratitude! I am so glad that I decided to go. I would attend another retreat with Jane in a heartbeat!

Riding by bus toward our Tuscany retreat facilitated by Alison Wearing and managed by Jane Reeves, I was already enveloped in the lush countryside. Curves of green--devoid of condos and macmansions--set the welcoming tone I had long anticipated. On arrival at the home and vineyard locale, we encountered an atmosphere unchanged by centuries of traditional wine-making, this time with a proprietress graced by the knowledge and ability of industrious women.
We were invited to an overview of the grounds, and I was more impressed by the quaint fairy garden than the two sublime swimming pools. I happened to observe that the steps leading to these levels of the pools had few hand rails. I also took note of the stairs toward my room. Ordinarily stairs are second nature to my strong legs. However, a hip and knee replacement in my 80 plus years gave me pause for consideration.
However, I felt so secure in the grace of being welcomed that I immediately raised my questions with Jane Reeves. Not only did the ambience give voice to my concerns but I am a feisty lady who had raised herself to speak her mind. I still find myself enjoying being helped over the bumps I encounter on the journey of my youthful but aging spirit.
No sooner asked than done. Jane and another retreat companion moved my belongings and--yes--even hooked up my hearing aides, iPhone, and computer: all in readiness for my frontal lobes. All these details that I hate as much as packing, were done with more ease and kindness than I grant with my own impatient self.
Having my room and private bath in order and my own memoir written in preparation for this retreat, I had nothing more to do, really, than listen to the concerns of a fellow retreat pal the next day by the pool. In fact, the next few days were also spent listening.
Because my draft memoir already had a "container" of the first twenty years of my existence leading to a momentous life decision, I had the luxury of hearing Alison suggest improvements that I could easily implement with the critique and encouragement of my
friends in a long-standing writing collective back home. Ideas such as dialogue, more showing-not-telling and humor were helpful additions that I loved hearing in the context of Alison's dramatic presentations.
I should not omit the wonderful moments in the gem of a villa, Pienza, where I saw more spectacular vistas, paddled along a fellow retreater shopping for puppets and agonized over how to spend my son's generous gift until I found just the cashmere scarf that called out to me.
The last couple days I admit worrying over writing a 250 word essay describing the most successful play I'd written and the inner contradictions I dealt with discovering the voices of my characters. We had to present our essays to the group, and I got a blessed opportunity to hear the work of others.
One tidbit I should mention was a secret I withheld until I got home. I had a spasm of diarrhea every morning starting on the fourth day and which never dared interfere with any of my enjoyment. Only when I got home and back to work did I experience a cough that was unmistakably Covid (I had Covid a few years back). Sure enough, invulnerable 83 year old me, in fast camaraderie of Covid with my fellow retreats. Two months later I was to undergo necessary heart valve replacement, and my Italy comrade/writers emailed their spiritual solidarity, meshing them all in my future memoirs forever.

Radiant Jane exudes exactly what her retreats entail, pure radiance. I got to join her and some fellow astrologers in beautiful Tuscany for a week in October 2024, a wonderful, life-changing trip that I still think about pretty much every single day. On the first night I realized I’d forgotten my power adapter and messaged Jane to see if she could help, she resolved the problem quickly and efficiently.
Also on the second day, we found out that two of our fellow astro students had tested positive for COVID. Jane told the group immediately and had a game plan set in place. As this is something COMPLETELY beyond her control, I would absolutely never take it out on the retreat leader, because that’s INSANE. We are all adults and all know that sickness while traveling (esp in the age of COVID) can happen sometimes. Jane handled it with such grace.

On her website, there is a section where retreat-goers are able to disclose any dietary restrictions they have, so that Jane could accommodate them. Her website also explicitly states that she is unfortunately not able to accommodate the vegan diet (It’s authentic Italian food, no one should be shocked). So any complaints about food accommodations from retreaters just didn’t plan adequately on their end. That is not on Jane.
During the nightly dinners (which was WAY more than enough food) ((and wine 😉)) I got to know Jane a bit deeper and she’s so down to earth and wise. Traveling abroad alone for the first time, I felt like she was truly a piece of home.
I truly don’t understand how anyone could have a bad thing to say about Jane and the way she runs her business. She is the best there is and I absolutely will be signing up for another retreat as soon as I can.

Jane is the best of the best. Caring, compassionate, and meets everyone’s wildest needs. Not an easy job. The astrology retreat in the hills of Italy was beautiful, great romantic rooms, excellent and plentiful food. It was a dream come true. Jane, we love U. Marc Darrow, MD, JD

My experience with Radiant Jane Retreats was nothing short of wonderful. I had an unfortunate incident in the Paris airport; I fell on an escalator. It ate my jacket and ripped my right arm from the top of my shoulder to my wrist. The paramedics patched me up, but I missed my transport in Rome, which was supposed to have taken me to the event in Tuscany. Not only did Jane arrange for private transport, but she also directed that we stop at a pharmacy for appropriate medical supplies and then checked in on me several times a day throughout the retreat to ensure I was comfortable and provided for medical care throughout my stay. The food and wine were fabulous. Most meals were buffet style, so we had ample selections from which to choose. Evening meals consisted of multiple courses. My only regret is that I didn't get to book a massage due to my injury (I heard they were wonderful!). I will definitely be booking another retreat with her one day soon, and I can't wait!

I cannot endorse Radiant Jane Retreats. Jane Reeves acknowledged in writing that our Retreat (October 6-12, 2024) "fell short of our expectations" "was disruptive and disappointing" "did not provide a meaningful and supportive environment" "did not live up to the standard of inspiration, stability and care," that "participants were left feeling frustrated and let down" and her "leadership was in question." All of these statements are accurate. Her offer of compensation to each of us was $500 off another of her Retreats, which we chose not to invest in. When the 20 participants asked instead for a modest refund of $500 (the Retreat was 3600 U.S. plus our travel costs, plus cancellation insurance) we were told her business could not support this amount and she offered us $50 each instead. We did not accept this offer, and chose instead to post our reviews. Now she is threatening us with legal action for harassment for these reviews. In addition Jane used foul language when we challenged her about a decision to include our teachers who had active Covid infections on our bus.

I stand by this review. As you stated in writing to us following the Retreat: "I know words cannot undo the frustration and disappointment you may feel. Your trust and investment in our retreat were gifts we deeply valued, and it pains me to know we let you down. Please know that we are reflecting on this experience with humility and are committed to learning from it." It appears by your threats of legal action for these reviews that the lesson has not been learned.

(Update 10/11/24 to owner reply)
Dear Jane,
I was surprised to read your response to my review, as it does not accurately reflect the reality of the situation. I would like to clarify the timeline of events:
1. On October 27, 2024, you blocked me from your Instagram account (@radiantjaneretreats) just one day after our retreat ended.

2. Within the same week, you removed all reviews from your Facebook page, including a negative review from your mother.

3. On October 9, 2024, at 01:46 AM UK time, you attempted to have my review removed from Trustpilot, labelling it as "defamatory." After their investigation, Trustpilot dismissed your claim, and my review was reinstated at 02:32 AM UK time.

4. Six hours later, you posted your response to my review, expressing how disheartened you were.
The timeline reflects that instead of addressing my concerns about the retreat, you chose to block me on social media, delete reviews, and attempt to discredit my feedback. You have not reached out to me regarding my dissatisfaction during or after the retreat.

Your statement about never receiving a review like mine in the past is perplexing, especially considering the negative reviews that were visible before you deleted them. It’s important to recognize that guests, including myself, seek genuine experiences and transparency, especially in a retreat environment.
I encourage you to reflect on this feedback and consider how your actions may have contributed to our dissatisfaction.
Thank you.

(Original Review) -I stayed at Radiant Jane Retreats from October 20th to October 26th, 2024, primarily to attend classes with our favourite astrologer. Unfortunately, my experience was disappointing—not because of our wonderful teacher Kelly, but due to inadequate conditions and the host’s unprofessionalism.

Despite paying over $3,800 per person, which included three meals a day, we found the facilities lacking. For yoga, we were instructed to practice in our rooms on uneven tile floors, and the spa area was uninviting, failing to justify the additional €25 booking fee. The images on the retreat's website did not reflect the reality we encountered.

The food quality was particularly concerning. Lunch consisted of lukewarm soup made from canned tomato sauce, paired with cold, unappetizing dishes. Dinners were consistently served cold, and the overall culinary experience fell short. Additionally, an older male waiter exhibited rude and errant behaviour, making inappropriate comments like, “Oh look at you, you won't say no,” while pouring wine without consent—unprofessional, especially towards a multicultural-looking woman.

We received poorly prepared dishes reminiscent of substandard school meals, while my vegan friend was left with only cold bread and pasta with canned sauce, without prior notice that the retreat could not accommodate vegan diets. Jane, the host, had assured us she would do her "BEST” to provide options prior booking, which felt misleading upon arrival. Despite her promises, my friend received inadequate meals, including a dessert containing eggs. On the fourth day, Jane provided two packs of vegan cheese and dry vegan meat, but then asked my friend to reimburse her €14 for these items, despite him paying the same price as all meat-eating guests. This behaviour was particularly troubling, given my friend's shy and quiet nature. As an outsider I truly felt the manipulation of the host.

Moreover, I found a concerning comment from the host's mother, on the Radiant Jane Retreats Facebook page, stating, “I’m the mother of Jane! She has been very unkind to me for expressing my thoughts! Who does that?”
This raises serious questions about the environment and professionalism at the retreat.
Overall, it seemed that Jane prioritised profit over providing the genuine retreat experience she advertised. The combination of misleading images, poor food quality, subpar service, inadequate accommodations, and unprofessional behaviour made this the worst retreat experience I’ve had in Italy.

I cannot recommend Radiant Jane Retreats to anyone, and I hope this review helps others make an informed decision.