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Culinary & Wine Tours in Italy

7/27/2023

My love affair with Italy began back in 2010 when I first had the chance to visit, thanks to my friend Sebastiano Ramello, whom I met at a wine trade show in Chicago. I had the incredible opportunity to spend three months living in Piemonte just outside Dogliani and worked wine harvest and then in the cantina (winery). I also got to tour around some as well, visiting other wineries in the area, EATING! This started the tradition of gaining at least a kilo every time I'm in Italy for more than a month! Even if you haven't visited Italy yet, you probably already love at least ONE Italian dish and you've probably at least heard of Prosecco and Barolo. Since then, I've gone back to live and work in the Dogliani area and then in Montalcino working with wineries. And in my travel business, I've attended annual trade fairs to develop relationships with wonderful travel partners and have completed many familiarization trips all over the country. This doesn't include my own personal vacations there! Suffice it to say, VIVA ITALIA! So let's talk about wine and food tours...

As someone who has lived in and loves Italy, I can attest to the fact that Italy is a country where food and wine are considered as important as any monuments, museums or natural wonders. Eating well is an essential part of daily life in Italy, and exploring the country's rich culinary culture is a must-have experience for any traveler. What's more, the Italian cuisine is diverse and varies from region to region, which means there are plenty of culinary experiences to be had. It's impossible to cover everything in one simple blog post, but here are some fantastic options to think about when you are pondering food and wine travel in Italy...

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Why work with a travel advisor?

4/26/2023

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As a frequent traveler, you may have often found yourself wondering whether you REALLY need to use a travel advisor. With the rise of online booking websites and travel apps, it’s no surprise that many people believe that they can plan a vacation on their own. However, the truth is that using a travel advisor can provide you with a number of benefits that you simply can't get when planning a trip by yourself.

Some of the top reasons why you might consider using a travel advisor for your next trip:

1. Expertise and Knowledge.

One of the most significant advantages of using a travel advisor is our wealth of expertise and knowledge. Travel advisors have years of experience helping clients plan experience, knowledge of destinations and personal relationships with professional partners on the ground where you visit. We have a deep understanding of unique places to visit, the best times to go, and the top things to see and do in each destination. Whether you are planning a honeymoon, a luxury getaway, or a family vacation, travel advisors can provide you with insider tips and recommendations that you simply can’t find on Google. We can help you find hidden gems, avoid tourist traps, and personalize your trip to make it truly unique to your own travel needs and desires.

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Let's talk about tipping in Italy...

4/15/2023

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When traveling abroad, one of the most perplexing aspects of a new culture can be proper etiquette for tipping. In Italy, the rules are somewhat different from the USA or other Western countries. Here, I'll discuss the best practices for tipping in Italy and how to make sure you are showing proper respect and gratitude to those who provide you with excellent service.

First, it is important to note that tipping in Italy is not mandatory; however, it is greatly appreciated. In general, it is customary to round up to the nearest euro or two at restaurants, cafes, and bars. For example, if your bill comes to €25, it is perfectly acceptable to leave €27 on the table as a thank you for good service. It is not necessary to tip more than that, and large tips are not generally expected.

BUT... there are certain situations in which more generous tipping is both expected and appreciated. For example, it is customary to tip porters and maids a few euros per bag or per day, respectively. Similarly, taxi drivers expect a small tip of a few euros on top of the fare. If you are taking a private car service or using a chauffeur, it is appropriate to tip them more generously, perhaps 10% or 15%, especially if they have given you excellent service or gone out of their way to make your trip more enjoyable.

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greece has something for everyone!

3/15/2023

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Greece is a destination that has been enchanting travellers for centuries. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly people, Greece is truly one of the most captivating countries in the world. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the sea, Greece has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best destinations and experiences that Greece has to offer. Santorini: one of the most picturesque islands in Europe Santorini is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece. The island is famous for its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets that light up the sky in shades of pink and orange. Visitors to Santorini can explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira, take a dip in the Aegean sea, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. The island is also home to some of the finest wineries in Greece, where visitors can sample the famous Santorini wines while taking in stunning views of the caldera.

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