AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY - FIT Confidential Brochure

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT 2020

www.agboutiquejourney.it

OUR CONCEPT GIVING YOUR CLIENTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO LINK THEIR VACATION TO THEIR PASSIONS We design vacations and tours of Italy tailored exactly to your customer’s specifications. We offer a wide selection of Italy travel packages from traditional to unusual and even unique. Our customized tours are ideal for both the first-time visitor and the Italophile, with each tour personally crafted to meet their needs and budget.

For any request, just send us an email. We will work with you to plan the perfect itinerary and then we will take care of all the reservations involved in a tour. We will ensure an offer within 48 hours and we will make any changes needed to have the perfect package for your customers.

From your request to the departure we will be in constant contact with you to solve any issues and always give you a prompt answer. While your clients are travelling we are always available to swiftly solve any problem that may arise and to ensure the smooth running of the tour.

Porto no o Cinquete terre re

Assisi

Alberobello

ROME HEAD OFFICE Via XX Settembre, 98G - 00187 Rome - Italy Tel: +39 06 99330701 Fax: +39 06 99330702 Email: info@agboutiquejourney.it Our offices are open: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm (excluding Bank Holidays)

OUR SERVICES HOTELS A wide range of selected hotels all over Italy to suit any request.

TRANSPORTATION Transportation by bus, ferry, train, plane for any size of group.

SIGHTSEEINGS & EXCURSIONS From classic to special-interests tours with multilanguage licensed tour guides.

RESTAURANTS A wide choice of restaurants and menus for any kind of meal, from a fast lunch to a gala dinner.

TAILORMADE HOLIDAYS Ad hoc tours all over Italy to suit all your clients’ needs and plan the perfect itinerary.

VIP SERVICES Exclusive de-luxe services.

TICKET RESERVATIONS Museums, concerts, theatres, operas, sport and special events.

ASSISTANCE 24 hour help line service.

Table of contents OUR CONCEPT - OUR SERVICES MAP OF ITALY INTRODUCTION TO ITALY

2 3 6

REGULAR EXCURSIONS • Rome • Florence • Venice • Milan

8 9 12 14 16

ART CITY BREAKS • Rome - Angels & Demons Tour • Rome - Caput Mundi • Florence • Venice • Milan • Turin • Naples

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

TRAIN TOURS • Italian Passion - Train Tour, Rome and Naples • Italian Art Treasures - Train Tour, Rome and Florence • Italian Enchanting Duo - Train Tour, Rome and Venice • Italian Majestic Trio - Train Tour, Rome, Florence and Venice • Venice and Verona by train

27 28 29 30 31 32

FOOD & WINE - SLOW FOOD TOURS • Umbria - Chocolate, Wine and Pottery Tour • Rome - Art & Food ESCORTED • Tuscany Gourmet & Cinque Terre SELF DRIVE • Tuscany and Umbria Wine & Food Tour Piedmont Veneto and Lake Garda Tuscany

33 34 35

Umbria Lazio Campania Apulia and Matera Sicily Emilia Romagna Lazio e Campania Abruzzo: Trabocchi coast Tour

50 53 56 59 62 65 68 71

SHORT BREAKS - SLOW FOOD TOURS Piedmont Trentino Alto Adige Lake Garda area Veneto Liguria Emilia Romagna Tuscany Umbria Lazio Campania Apulia Sicily

75 76 78 80 82 84 86 87 89 91 93 95 98

CLASSIC TOURS - SELF DRIVE • Sicily Tour • Amalfi Coast tour • Northern Italian Lakes • Piedmont and Liguria Tour • Apulia Tour • Tuscany - Siena, Amazing Palio Race • Latium - Tivoli, Rome, Visit of Villa d’Este • Latium - Fiuggi, The Hearth of Italy • Venice, Dolomite Mountains and Verona Shakespearean Tales • Lombardy, Milan and Cremona On the Classical Music Route • Umbria

36 40 42 44 47

4

99 100 102 104 106 108 110 112 113 114 115 116

SEASIDE • Campania - Amalfi and Sorrento Coast, Breath-Taking “Costiera” • Campania Coast -Mediterranean Breeze, Sailing Tour • Sardinia - Turquoise Bliss, Seaside Stay • Italian Riviera, Liguria Enchanting Cinque Terre • Sicily - White and relaxing beaches

118

WELLNESS • Latium - Fiuggi, Wellness stay at Ambasciatori Hotel & Spa • Latium - Stigliano, Wellness stay at Grand Hotel delle Terme • Umbria - Torgiano (Perugia), Wellness stay at Borgo Brufa Relais & Spa • Umbria - S. Martino in Campo (Perugia), Wellness stay at alla Posta dei Donini resort & Spa • Apulia - Savelletri di Fasano (Brindisi), Wellness Stay at Masseria Torre Coccaro • Sicily - Sciacca (Agrigento), Wellness Stay at Verdura Golf & Spa Resort

125 126 127

ECO AND SPORT • Green and Gold Tuscany - Walking tour • Campania, Amalfi Coast & Capri On the Trek of Giants, Walking Tour

119 120 121 122 123

128 129 130 131 132 133 134

• Lombardy, Garda Lake - Golf Heaven • Sicily, Etna, Alcantara & Nebrodi Natural Parks

135 136

FASHION • Milan - Art, Fashion and Nature • Rome - Shopping tour • Florence & the mall outlet • On the tracks of the “Dolce Vita” • The artisans of Oscar - Winning Outfits • The rebirth of contemporary handicraft • ‘Naples – Pizza, sfogliatelle and... fashion

137 138 139 140 141 143 145 147

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES • A taste of Sicily • Breathtaking Italian Costiera • Ferrari and Luxury are inseparable • The show of Italian football • The Classic Trio: Rome, Florence & Venice • The Cradle of Opera • The enchanting Sardinia • Venice – Santa Cristina Island

149 150 152 154 156 158 160 162 164

BANK HOLIDAYS TERMS AND CONDITIONS

166 167

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INTRODUCTION TO ITALY THE DIVERSITY OF ITALY PROVIDES THE ULTIMATE IN FLEXIBLE HOLIDAYS. ART CITIES Possibly the greatest spectacle of any trip to Italy is the architecture and art. Sprawling metropolis or small hill top cities, each characterised by the buildings left behind over the centuries.

R ome. The Eternal City, spills over with art, ancient history, high fashion and all the food and drink Italy is famous for.

There is arguably more to see in Rome than any other city in the world, a walk through the back streets of the centre of Rome will reveal masterpieces of virtually every architectural age. Not to be missed, a climb up to St. Peter’s dome to see the dazzling 360 degree panorama of Rome, and whilst in the area a visit to the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museum or a stroll along the Roman Forum towards the Colosseum where gladiators fought to stay alive.

Flor ence. It is without doubt one of the world’s most beautiful cities and after one visit many visitors keep returning to view the fabulous buildings, excellent galleries and striking churches. Located in the heart of Tuscany, the city has so much to offer that any length of time would never seem enough to take advantage of all the attractions available. All tastes, budgets and ages are catered for in what is one of the most-loved cities on the planet.

Venice. Finding words to express adequately the beauty and uniqueness of Venice has occupied writers for centuries. It is the city’s otherworldly, fairy-tale quality that attracts, keeping visitors flooding its narrow calli and palazzo-packed campi. Modern Venice is easily accessible on foot, but for the less energetic, or the more romantic, travelling by water on a gondola or convenient water taxi, is a must to view the various islets and sights this city boasts.

Ver ona. It is a city of music and romance, with so many sights to be discovered. Verona will be eternally linked with Shakespeare’s star crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet, yet there is so much more to do wandering amongst the cobbled streets. At night you may hear reverberating music from the famous Roman amphitheatre, home to the world’s most famous opera festivals, or just the chatter of road and piazza side cafés.

Milan. It is said that “Rome eats, Milan works.” As one of Europe’s financial and fashion centres, Milan is renowned for its stylish shopping precincts. La Scala the 18th century temple of opera has hosted the world’s most prestigious performers, whilst a wealth of treasure filled museums and the famous Duomo are surrounded by its lively piazza, cafés, restaurants and smart boutiques.

Nap les. Set around one of the most beautiful bays in Italy, the Bay of Naples (Napoli), lying in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, and in close proximity to the romantic islands of Capri Naples is the third-

largest city in Italy. It is a vibrant city that has much to offer to visitors.

The compact centre is filled with palaces, churches, convents.

The Museo Archeologico Nazionale houses one of the world’s most important collections representing the Roman eras. Naples is an unforgettable experience!

NORTHERN AND CENTRAL ITALY L ake District. One can’t describe the beauty of the Italian Lakes, nor would one try if one could,” wrote Henry James. The extravagant beauty of the Italian Lake District has attracted visitors since the times of the Roman Empire, inspiring poets, writers, and musicians with its idyllic landscape of tranquil lakes ringed by soaring granite mountains. Excellent food and wine, like in so many regions of Italy, may be enjoyed after a day exploring by lake steamer.

L ake Co mo. It is surrounded by highmountains and gentle hills, some narrow and impassable valleys that make Como a beautiful place for family vacation and for anyone who loves nature and sport.

Lake Mag gior e. It winds imposingly between Piemonte and Lombardy, it’s Italy’s second largest lake. Stresa, Maggiore’s most enchanting town, poses beautifully under the majestic peak of Mottarone, just across from the mystical Borromean Islands.

L ake Gard a. It brings the gift of a last and unexpected breath of Mediterranean before reaching the passageways of the Dolomites heading north. Here, the intense blue of Lake Garda touches the mountains; the olive branches speak with the wind, and the lemons mature in the sun.

Tus cany. The picture postcard landscape of Tuscany is famed for its rolling green hills planted with long lines of towering cypress trees and endless rows of grapevines that produce the famous Chianti.

Majestic medieval villages in nestle beautiful countryside each with bustling restaurants, piazzas and cobblestones of ancient streets.

There are so many places worth being visited in Tuscany. Florence is, of course, a must. Just to mention few of them, the pretty medieval village of San Gimignano; Siena a lovely walled town in central Tuscany famous for the Palio, the horse race held on its shell shaped square; Pisa with its Leaning Tower; Lucca a beautifully preserved medieval town. The Tuscany coast has been long famed for its glorious mild climate and abundance of pines, bougainvillea, roses and its colourful fishing villages. This area offers stylish resorts such as Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio, otherwise known as Riviera della Versilia.

Umbr ia. Verdant Umbria, holy Umbria, Umbria of a hundred towns, so many slo¬gans convey the essence of this land in an attempt to sum up a region that is actually complex and varied. Placed exactly in the center of the Italian peninsula, Umbria is called the green heart

of Italy. Perugia, the great “Guelf strong-hold” rises up in the region’s heart, with its 5 storical quarters closed-in by its Etruscan town walls.

Laying on the slopes of Monte Ingino, Gubbio is one of the most ancient towns of Umbria, extremely well preserved during centuries and rich of monuments testifying its glorious past. Assisi is the town of Saint Francis, Orvieto rises on a plateau of volcanic tuff, surrounded by a stupendous landscape of fields and vineyards. But Umbria is also a world of water with great lakes, rivers and streams eroding the calcareous rock to create enchanting and unique passages, waterfalls that offer delightful views.

Italian Rivier a. The Italian Riviera located in the region of Liguria, stretches from Ventimiglia in the west near the French border to Genoa at the center, and ending just beyond Cinque Terre in the east at Portovenere. It is dotted with mountains villages, small and often secluded beaches (sandy to rocky) a wide range of hotels, entrancing scenery and remarkable culture. Sanremo is the city of the flowers.

A bathing and tourist resort set on the area comprised between Andora and Varazze is called Riviera delle Palme “. Genoa is Italy’s main commercial port, it also offers plenty of tourist attractions including Europe’s largest aquarium. Cinque Terre (Five Lands) area is the hikers paradise. The trail that links the villages hugs seaside cliffs and traverses vineyards and olive groves. The five traditional coastal villages offer breathtaking scenieres to all visitors, they’re best reached by train or boat if not by foot: Riomaggiore, Manarola , Corniglia (which produces a fine white wine) Vernazza (a picturesque fishing village) and Monterosso (which fronts upon a long beach).

SOUTHERN ITALY AND THE ISLANDS Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and it is renowned for its rugged terrain, scenic beauty, picturesque towns and diversity; every town has its own character and interesting sites. Amalfi is characterised by small fisherman dwellings and white washed villas situated on the cliff face. Here it is possible to enjoy a multitude of attractions, the enchanting small marina and colourful centre full of lively restaurants and shops. Best known for its dominant coastal views, Ravello is about 15 minutes drive inland from Amalfi. Positano has an original structure; with its buildings cling, in tiers to the rock face, and the small houses, all huddling on top of each other, is known all over the world for its nice shops and romantic atmosphere.

Apulia. Comprising Italy’s extreme southeast peninsula, the region of Apulia — although as fascinating as upper Italy — is completely different and much less crowded than its northern counterpart. Its sunny, mild climate is ideal for grape and olive cultivation. Discover the best of this beautiful region - superlative cuisine and wines; incredible history and architecture, from medieval cathedrals to deserted Greek and Roman ruins; and some of the Mediterranean’s most unspoiled beaches. A visit to its cities such as Bari, Ostuni, Lecce, Alberobello it is a trip through history and culture. Gargano Promontory: a long coast of breathtaking beauty, dotted with charming fishing villages turned tourist attractions like Vieste and Peschici.

Not to miss visiting San Giovanni Rotondo, city of Padre Pio, which attracts a million pilgrims every year.

Sicily. Between mainland Italy and Tunisia, Sicily is Italy’s largest island, and it offers something for everyone. The sea sparkles on the warm volcanic sands of its many beaches; the numerous invaders of history have left a rich and varied architectural heritage; the lush coast rises quickly to a mountainous and impressively desolate interior, over which the smoking crater of Etna looms ominously. Sicilian cuisine is a tantalising display of exotic and colourful ingredients, perfectly complemented by the excellent wines of the island. Taormina is a picturesque resort town on Mount Tauro in sight of Mount Etna, Imperial Palermo is built around a splendid natural harbour. It enjoys excellent restaurants and shops, interesting churches and fine examples or Norman monuments.

Sar dinia. Some reasons for visiting Sardinia would be its sparkling white sandy beaches and pristine waters. Although, not known for its cultural riches, this island holds some remains of various civilisations that passed through here. Plenty of traces of the islands prehistory survive, most conspicuous of which are the Nuraghi, rough conical stone fortresses built from huge basalt blocks from extinct Volcanoes. Sardinia truly offers a combination of idyllic coastal resorts and stunning white sandy beaches, scenic rural places and the fascinating tradition of its wonderful people. The town of Olbia is the gateway to the Emerald Coast (Costa Emeralda), one of Europe’s most important resort areas. Nuoro, Oristano are the typically Sardinian town with their ruins of the Phoenician city Tharros, Cagliari is the largest city on the island with a good archaeological museum, Alghero has a strong Catalan atmosphere.

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

REGULAR EXCURSIONS

ROME REGULAR DAILY TOURS OPEN CITY TOUR (HOP-ON, HOP-OFF)

St. Peter

FROM

Rates on request

FROM

TOUR 1 - CLASSICAL ROME

Rates on request DEPARTURES: Daily (Except 8th April, the day of Rome Marathon) DURATION: 3 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 8.00/8.40 am - From Agency 9.00 am INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide

TOUR 2 - IMPERIAL ROME & COLISEUM INSIDE

FROM

Rates on request

DEPARTURES: Daily (Except 1st January, 1st May, 25th December, 10th April and every first Sunday of each month) DURATION: 3 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 1.15/2.15 pm From Agency 2.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide, entrance to Coliseum

Vatican Museum DEPARTURES: From 1st April to 31st Oct. every day Morning From 1st Nov. to 31st March Monday - Friday Morning; Tuesdays - Wednesdays Thursdays – Friday – Saturday Afternoon 24th and 31st Dec. tour only in the morning.

On Sunday and Catholic holidays no tours

From the coach you will admire Piazza della Repubblica, the ancient Aurelian walls and the famous Piazza del Popolo with its Egyptian obelisk. Arrive at the Vatican Walls. Your guide will then lead you into the Vatican Museums taking the beautiful Spiral staircase and continuing through the Gallery of the Tapestries and the Gallery of the Geographical Maps before arriving in the famous Sistine Chapel with its magnificent fresco of the Last Judgment by Michelangelo. At the end of the tour time free to visit the St. Peter’s Basilica. Drop-off in the city centre.

TOUR 4 - CHRISTIAN ROME ( MINIMUM 6 PEOPLE )

Appian Way

FROM

Rates on request

DEPARTURES: From April to October: Mon, Wed, Fri (except on the date of Marathon in Rome and Easter) – From Nov to March: Wed and Sunday (except on Jan 1 and Dec 25) DURATION: 3 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 1.15/2.15 pm - From Agency 2.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide, Entrance Fees

The tour will bring you to the Esquiline Hill, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Holy Staircase and the Basilica of San Giovanni, the cathedral of Rome (visit inside). Then proceeding along the Ancient Appian Way, you will arrive at the Catacombs, the ancient underground cemeteries and first hiding places for the Christians. Visit either the Catacombs of S. Callisto, Santa Domitilla or San Sebastiano depending upon seasonal conditions.

The tour will end with a spectacular view of the Baths of Emperor Caracalla. Drop off in the city centre.

TOUR 5 - PAPAL AUDIENCE IN ST. PETER’S

FROM

Rates on request

DEPARTURES: Every Wednesday morning (unless the Pope is absent ) DURATION: 3/4 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 6.30/7.20 am - From Agency 7.30 am INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide Note: seating not guaranteed

Coliseum

Arriving by coach at Piazza Venezia, continue by foot to the famous Piazza Del Campidoglio designed by Michelangelo from where you will have a fantastic view of the Roman Forum. We will then drive by the Circus Maximus and the Aventino Hill. Stop to admire the beautiful statue of Moses by Michelangelo located in the Church of St. Peter’s in Chains from where it will take us 5 minutes to reach the symbol of the eternal city: The Colosseum. Visit inside. Drop-off in the city centre.

Rates on request DURATION: 4 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 6.30/7.40 am - From Agency 8.00 am; From Hotel 1.15/2.15 pm (Apr. - Oct.).

From Hotel 1.15/2.15 pm (Nov. - Mar.) INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide, Entrance fees

Trevi Fountain

Crossing Piazza della Repubblica with the Fountain of the Nayads, our local guide will take you on a pleasant stroll through the historical centre, where you can admire the Trevi Fountain, La Colonna di Marco Aurelio, the Palazzo di Montecitorio, designed by Bernini, the Pantheon (visit inside), Palazzo Madama - seat of the senate and Piazza Navona.

Passing alongside Castel Sant’Angelo, we get St. Peter’s Square where there will be an explanation of the Basilica from outside. End of the tour. Drop-off in the city centre.

FROM

TOUR 3 - VATICAN MUSEUMS

VALIDITY: 24 or 48 hours DEPARTURES: Daily DURATION: 2 hours approx.

DETAILS: - 12 stops in the main places of interest of the city - Frequency every 30 minutes - Live commentary on board (English) - Courier assistance on board

Rome in one ticket, every day all year round visit Rome by open-top double-decker bus, hop-on/hop-off whenever you wish all day long.

12 stops in the main places of interest of the city - frequency every 30 minutes. You will spend moments of leisure and culture at points of greatest artistic and historical interest in the Eternal City.

During the journey, in the maps you will receive from the crew on board, you will be accompanied by audio comments that will show you at each stop the characteristics of the places visited. An approx. 2 hour hop-on, hop-off tour.

Validity starts from the first boarding.

(Rates on request)

St. Peter

In order to arrive at the Vatican City we pass by some of the most famous sights of the city, starting with Piazza della Repubblica, the beautiful Piazza Barberini, the famous Via Veneto, Piazza del Popolo and finally the massive Castel S. Angelo. The Papal Audience will take place either in St. Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica or the Audience Hall according to seasonal conditions and the number of pilgrims involved. Our local guide will advise you when and where to meet the bus at the end of the audience. Drop off in the city centre.

9

ROME REGULAR DAILY TOURS TOUR 6 - ROMAN COUNTRYSIDE CASTELLI ROMANI ( MINIMUM 6 PEOPLE )

FROM

Rates on request

(Rates on request)

TOUR 9 – ILLUMINATED ROME (MINIMUM 6 PEOPLE)

DEPARTURES: Monday and Saturday afternoons from 1st April to 31st October DURATION: 3/4 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 1.15/2.15 pm From Agency 2.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide, Tasting of wine and local products.

Piazza Navona

Local Tavern

Leaving Rome we drive along the ‘Road of the Lakes’ through one of the hilly areas of volcanic origin that characterize the outskirts of Rome. Colli Albani with its many growing villages. Castelgandolfo on the shores of a volcanic lake, where the Pope has his summer residence, Rocca di Papa and Grottaferrata, known for their gastronomic delicacies which include the traditional “porchetta”.

Finally we reach Frascati popular with visitors both for its beauty and considerable wine production. Stop for a taste of local wine and products in a local tavern. Drop off in the city centre.

TOUR 7 - TIVOLI VILLA ADRIANA & VILLA D’ESTE (MINIMUM 6 PEOPLE)

FROM

TOUR 10 – NAPLES & CAPRI

DURATION: 4 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 6.45/7.45 am - From Agency 8.00 am From Hotel 1.15/2.15 pm - From Agency 2.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide, Entrance Fees.

Capri

DEPARTURES: From 1st Apr to 30th Sep - Tue., Thur. and Sun. Afternoons (except May 1st - April 10th) From 1st Oct to 31st Mar - Thur. and Sun. Mornings (except Dec. 25th - Jan 1st)

Following the ancient Via Tiburtina, you will stop to visit the ruins of Villa Adriana which can only hint at the grandeur and beauty of this Villa built by Emperor Hadrian to remind him of the monuments and sites he had admired during his travels in the East. Continue to the Villa D’Este, one of the most beautiful residences of the Renaissance. The Villa’s countless fountains, set in the heart of magnificent Italian style gardens, create a delightfully symphony of lights and colours. Drop off in the city centre.

TOUR 8 - ANCIENT OSTIA (MINIMUM 6 PEOPLE)

FROM

Rates on request

FROM

Rates on request DEPARTURES: From April to October every day; From November to March - Thursday, Friday, Sunday with minimum 6 person (except 25th December and 1st January) DURATION: Full Day PICK UP: From Hotel 6.30/7.15 am - From Agency 7.30 am INCLUSIONS: Transportation, assistance, lunch, guide & disembarkation tax in Capri, entrance fees.

Arrive in Naples and take the jet boat to reach Capri. Here you can take motorboats to reach the Blue Grotto (optional visit). Visit Anacapri, situated at 280 metres above sea level from where you will have a wonderful view of the Bay of Naples. After lunch in a local restaurant, you will have some free time to take unforgettable photographs and purchase local products before returning back to Naples. After disembarking you will then take the coach to Rome. Return to the vicinity of your hotel.

USEFUL INFORMATION: During the journey from Rome to Naples, it will not always be possible to make a comfort stop, but the boats for Capri have bar and restroom facilities.

NB. From November to March the visit of the Blue Grotto is not possible.

TOUR 11 - NAPLES / POMPEII

FROM

Rates on request DEPARTURES: Every day except 25th December and 1st January DURATION: Full Day PICK UP: From Hotel 6.30/7.15 am - From Agency 7.30 am INCLUSIONS: Transportation, assistance, lunch, guide in Pompeii, entrance fees

DEPARTURES: From April to October, Every Friday and Sunday morning DURATION: 4 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 6.45/7.45 am - From Agency 8.00 am INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide, Entrance Fees.

Ancient Ostia

Ostia was founded around the 4th century BC by King Anco Marzio and became the harbour of Rome around which, throughout the following centuries, a flourishing trade and business centre developed.

Following the Barbarian invasions, the decline of Ostia began and the port was abandoned and became silted up. The archaeological excavations undertaken at the beginning of the XIX century have brought the ancient city back to light, a rare witness to 900 years of Roman civilization. Drop off in the city centre.

DEPARTURES: Daily in the evening on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (except 24 Dec and 31 Dec ) DURATION: 2 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Hotel 7.00/7.40 pm From Agency 8.00 pm INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Guide.

Option: Tour with dinner in a local restaurant (drinks included)

Discover some of the main monuments of the Eternal City in the romantic atmosphere of times past. You will admire The Fountain of the Nayads, Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum, the Coliseum, the Arch of Constantine and the Circus Maximus. Driving along the banks of the Tiber, you will see the Jewish Quarter with synagogue, the imposing Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Basilica. There will be two stops on this tour: at Piazza Navona to see Bernini’s beautiful Fountain of the Four Rivers and at the Trevi Fountain so that you can keep up the tradition of throwing coins into the fountain. Return to the vicinity of your hotel.

Rates on request

Villa Adriana

FROM

Rates on request

Pompeii

Arriving in Naples we will cross the historical centre and see Piazza del Plebiscito, the Royal Palace, the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, the San Carlo Opera House, the Gallery of Umberto I and the imposing Maschio Angioino. Arrive at Pompeii, stop for lunch. Visit of the excavations with a local guide. Through the remains and ruins of this ancient city, we can picture the everyday life of the Imperial Age and imagine the panic felt by the people in those last few minutes before the city was so disastrously buried. Return to Rome.

Tour 12 - Pompei / Sorrento / Capri

10

ROME REGULAR DAILY TOURS TOUR 12 - POMPEI / SORRENTO / CAPRI

Costiera

FROM

Rates on request

DEPARTURES: Every day except 24th,25th, 31st December and 1st January DURATION: 2 Days PICK UP: From Hotel 6.30/7.15 am - From Agency 7.30 am INCLUSIONS: Transportation, assistance, hotel, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, guide & disembarkation tax in Capri, entrance fees

Two days to discover not only the excavations of the ancient city of Pompeii but also to see the breathtaking coastline of the Sorrento Peninsula and Capri, the jewel of the Mediterranean sea.

Day 1: Same itinerary as Tour 15 followed by a drive along the ‘Costiera Sorrentina’, to which the town of Sorrento gives its name. Arrival at your hotel, dinner and overnight.

Day 2: After breakfast transfer to the port of Sorrento and take the jet boat to Capri. Board motorboats to visit the Blue Grotto (if weather and sea conditions permit), followed by a panoramic tour of Capri and Anacapri. After lunch, free time before taking the boat to rejoin the daily tour coach for the journey back to Rome.

TOUR 13 – FLORENCE

Ponte Vecchio

FROM

Rates on request DEPARTURES: From April to Oct. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday; From Nov. to March with minimum 8 people to leave.

(Except 25th December and 1st January ) DURATION: Full Day PICK UP: From Hotel 6.30/7.15 am - From Agency 7.30 am INCLUSIONS: Transportation, assistance, lunch, guide in Florence

The city tour will start with a visit to the David by Michelangelo in the Academy Museum, before continuing with your local guide to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its beautiful dome by Brunelleschi, the Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower and Piazza della Signoria, the ‘heart’ of Florence. Lunch in a typical Florentine restaurant. In the afternoon visit Santa Croce. Departure from Florence at approximately 5.00 pm for the return journey to Rome. Return to the vicinity of your hotel.

11

(Rates on request)

FLORENCE REGULAR DAILY TOURS TOUR 1 – FLORENCE (MORNING)

Duomo

FROM

Rates on request

TOUR 2 – FLORENCE (AFTERNOON)

Florence

DEPARTURES: Daily (except every Monday and bank holidays) DURATION: 3.30 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 2.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, visit to Fiesole by fully-fitted GT coach, Uffizi Gallery ticket and reservation, Earphones for bigger groups, Walking tour.

TOUR MUS1 - VISIT OF ACCADEMIA GALLERY

FROM

Rates on request

DEPARTURES: Daily (except every Monday and bank holidays) DURATION: 1.30 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Uffizi Gallery in front of door no. 1, at 4.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Uffizi ticket and reservation, Earphones for bigger groups Uffizi Dome

The Uffizi Gallery is the oldest art gallery in the world! This is a unique experience for those of you who want to immerse yourself in Florence’s artistic background and history.

You will be guided through the huge rooms and bright hallways to stop in front of and admire such classics as Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Leonardo’s The Annunciation and Michelangelo’s Tondo Doni… to name but a few. At the end of the guided tour you can remain in the Uffizi Gallery until closing time.

FROM

Rates on request

Short visit of the beautiful Etruscan-Roman village of Fiesole, with stunning views of Florence and the Arno Valley. Coming back to Florence visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, admire Piazza Signoria, the architecture of Palazzo Vecchio and the famous statues of Loggia de' Lanzi. The tour finishes inside the Uffizi Gallery, where you can admire the unique Renaissance masterpieces of the great Italian artists: Leonardo, Giotto, Michelangelo, Botticelli and Raphael. You can stay inside the museum for as long as you please even after the guided tour is over.

David by Michelangelo

TOUR MUS2 - VISIT OF UFFIZI GALLERY

DEPARTURES: Daily (except every Monday and bank holidays) DURATION: 3.15 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 9.00 am INCLUSIONS: Guide, visit to Piazzale Michelangelo by fully-fitted GT coach, Accademia Gallery ticket and reservation, Earphones for bigger groups, Walking tour

This tour begins from Piazzale Michelangelo, then continue to the Accademia Gallery, famous for its David of Michelangelo, the unfinished works of art Prigioni, San Matteo, la Pietà di Palestrina and other masterpieces by the great artist. The tour ends with a stroll through the historic streets of the city to arrive in Piazza Duomo, with the imposing Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the beautiful Baptistery with its golden, bronze doors. Drop off in the city centre.

(Rates on request)

FROM

TOUR WT – WALKING TOUR OF FLORENCE WITH APERITIFRates on request

Florence

DEPARTURES: Daily (except every Wednesday, every Saturday, 25th Dec. and 1st Jan.) DURATION: 2.00 hours approx. + time for the aperitif PICK UP: From Tourist point (kiosk) in Santa Maria Novella Square, at 4.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Aperitif, Earphones for bigger groups

We are very pleased to offer to you our ORIGINAL, BRAND NEW WALKING TOUR: a perfect mix of Florence’s classical face and its hot spots, combined with curiosities and unknowns. Discover how the Street of Beautiful Women got its name and how to beat your competitors with poppy seeds! At the end a well-earned refrigerating aperitif will be waiting for you in an exclusive location of an historical square of Florence. But before this you will have to discover two hidden portraits in Piazza Signoria and learn how to win good luck from the Porcellino. Comfortable shoes suggested!

FROM

Rates on request

DEPARTURES: Daily (except every Monday and bank holidays) DURATION: 1.15 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Accademia Gallery, in front of the main entrance at 10.30 am (contact the travel agency to confirm the time 24 hours prior the tour) INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Accademia ticket and reservation, Earphones for bigger groups

Your personal guide will reveal the secrets of the Accademia Gallery and the creation of Michelangelo’ s world renowned masterpieces, such as the original version of David, I Prigioni and San Matteo. This is a must and will be a discovery for anyone interested in Michelangelo.

It really is a once-in-the-life experience to stand in front of David. At the end of the guided tour you will have the possibility to stay in the museum for as long as you like.

FROM

TOUR SSMC – SIENA, SAN GIMIGNANO, MONTERIGGIONI AND CHIANTI

Monteriggioni

DEPARTURES: Daily except 25th Dec and 1st Jan (From November to March daily, except Thursday and Saturday) DURATION: 10.30 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 8.45 am INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Siena Cathedral tickets, Tasting of homemade ice cream in San Gimignano (HIGH SEASON ONLY), Visit to a wine estate with tour of the wine cellars and sampling of wines, extra-virgin olive oil and regional products.

Visit the medieval village Monteriggioni and Siena, famous for its gothic architecture and the Palio horse race. Follow our guide to the suggestive Piazza del Campo, where the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico stands, with its Torre del Mangia. Visit the precious interiors of the Duomo, one of the most beautiful Cathedrals in Italy. After leaving Siena we drive to San Gimignano famous for its white wine and the Chianti area, with its picture-postcard landscapes. You have the chance to taste the best Chianti red wine in a rustic wine estate. Drop off in the city centre.

12

FLORENCE REGULAR DAILY TOURS TOUR PIMO – EXCURSION TO PISA - MORNING TOUR

Piazza dei Miracoli

FROM

FROM

TOUR PIAFT – EXCURSION TO PISA - AFTERNOON TOUR - ONLY IN SUMMER

Piazza dei Miracoli

TOUR CHIA – CHIANTI COLOURS AND FLAVOURS

DEPARTURES: Daily except 25th Dec and 1st Jan (From November to March daily, except Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) DURATION: 5.30 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 8.30 am INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Admission fee to the Cathedral

One of best-known and studied cities in the world. Enjoy the unique panorama of Piazza dei Miracoli with its wonderful marble architectures. Visit with the guide the precious interiors of the Cathedral. Once outside you can admire the Baptistery and the extremely popular Leaning Tower, and learn the secrets that made it so famous (outside). Also visit the Monumental Graveyard, where it will be possible to admire a number of paintings, sculptures and sepulchre monuments of several famous Pisa personalities. Free time for an icecream and to take some impressive photos.

Vino Chianti

Lucca

This tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy the city of one of the symbols of Italy:The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Enjoy the unique panorama of Piazza dei Miracoli with its wonderful marble architectures. Visit with the guide the precious interiors of the Cathedral. Once outside you can admire the Baptistery and the extremely popular Leaning Tower, climb up it and learn the secrets that made it so famous. Before heading back to Florence you will have free time for an ice cream and for the inevitable photo -memories.

FROM

DEPARTURES: from November to March only on Thursday and Saturday except on 25th Dec & 1st Jan. ; From April to October on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday DURATION: 9.00 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 9.00 am INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Admission fee to Pisa Cathedral. Buccellato cake tasting.

The tour starts in the incredible Piazza dei Miracoli of Pisa, where you can admire the Baptistery and the famous Leaning Tower, together with a guided visit of the majestic Cathedral. After you will have some free time before the departure for Lucca. In Lucca, famous for its still intact ancient walls, you will admire the Anfiteatro Square, the Guinigi Tower and San Martino Cathedral. The tour ends with a Buccellato tasting, a typical Lucchese cake.

FROM

TOUR 5TER – CINQUE TERRE, THE SCENT OF THE SEA (MINIMUM 8 PEOPLE)

TOUR PITOW – PISA & THE LEANING TOWER – MORNING TOUR

Tower of Pisa

DEPARTURES: Daily except 25th Dec and 1st Jan (From November to March daily, except Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) DURATION: 5.00 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 2.30 pm INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Visit of two different wine estates with tour to the wine cellars, Sampling of wines and extra-virgin olive oil.

TOUR PILU – LUCCA AND PISA

FROM

DEPARTURES: Daily except 25th Dec and 1st Jan (From November to March daily, except Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) DURATION: 5.30 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 8.30 am INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Admission fee to the Cathedral, Admission fee to the Leaning Tower.

FROM

Your tour starts with a visit to a rustic wine Estate, where you will try an appetizing snack based on “crostini toscani”, home produced olive oil and a tasting of a delicate “Vino Chianti”. You will visit the cellar and learn all the secrets of wine processing. Then we move on to Greve In Chianti which is one of the most famous and best known Italian Chianti wine villages. Visit another wine estate to taste other regional products; the owners of the wine estate will teach you some easy steps to become a perfect sommelier!

DEPARTURES: Only from April to October on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday DURATION: 5.00 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 2.45 pm INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, Admission fee to the Cathedral

One of best-known and studied cities in the world. Enjoy the unique panorama of Piazza dei Miracoli with its wonderful marble architectures. Visit with the guide the precious interiors of the Cathedral. Once outside you can admire the Baptistery and the extremely popular Leaning Tower, and learn the secrets that made it so famous (outside). Also visit the Monumental Graveyard, where it will be possible to admire a number of paintings, sculptures and sepulchre monuments of several famous Pisa personalities. Free time for an icecream and to take some impressive photos.

(Rates on request)

Monterosso

DEPARTURES: daily from April 1 to November 12 DURATION: 12.00 hours approx.

PICK UP: From BAR REALE, inside Santa Maria Novella train station (Follow platform 16 to the grassy area with palm trees) at 7.00 am INCLUSIONS: Professional guide, motor vessel tickets, “Via dell’Amore” tickets, train tickets

Our visit begins at Riomaggiore, we then reach Manarola by walking along the famous “Via dell’Amore” (The Path of Love) a romantic and evocative promenade hewn from the rocks falling sheer into the sea.

Our journey continues to Monterosso, an ancient fishing village considered “The Pearl of the Cinque Terre”. Here you will have free time to plunge into the crystal sea and sunbathe, before taking the boat to Vernazza, a seaside town surrounding a small natural port.

Note: At the moment the “Path of Love” is closed and the reopening depends on local authorities. If it still won’t be accessible during high season, a longer route in boat will be offer as financial compensation and the given order of the visits may change.

Note: climbing the tower is forbidden to children under 8 years old.

13

VENICE REGULAR DAILY TOURS FROM

WALKING TOUR OF VENICE

Piazza San Marco

TOUR OF THE ISLANDS: MURANO, BURANO AND TORCELLO

Burano Island

DISCOVER VENICE & GONDOLA RIDE

DEPARTURES: Daily except December 25 and January 1 DURATION: 1.30 hours approx. – With the optional tour of Murano 2hrs approx.

PICK UP: Clock Tower (St. Mark’s Square) near “YEX” exchange office(the white building with the blue clock façade) at 9.00 am INCLUSIONS: Guide, Earphones for bigger groups

Have a walk outdoors (no entries) through the most characteristic and important places for the history of Venice. Route: Piazza San Marco with the main monuments: Basilica San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Bell Tower, Clock Tower and Procuratie. Santa Maria Formosa, a wonderful and characteristic square. Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo with The “Pantheon” of Venice. Marco Polo’s House and Malibran Theatre. After the walking tour you will be given a free coupon for a visit to a Murano glass factory in order to discover one of the Venetian greatest arts.

Optional trip by private boat to Murano Island (generally scheduled from 2pm to 4pm) and it is not a part of the tour. Be kindly aware that this optional visit could take longer than the scheduled time and that we do not recommend to participate if you have other reservation scheduled on the same day.

Note: Clients must always be at the meeting points 15 minutes before departure time

FROM

DEPARTURES: Daily from March to October except 4 June, Sept. 3 and 17, 25 Dec DURATION: 4 hours approx (roughly 30 minutes each islands) PICK UP: From Yellow box in front of the Prison’s Palace, close to Ponte della Paglia (between Doge’s Palace and Hotel Danieli) at 9.30 am and 2.30 pm.

INCLUSIONS: Guide, Earphones for bigger groups, return GT motor-boat

A cruise in the Lagoon is a suggestive as well as enjoyable experience, a new and different way to see Venice off the most beaten tracks by the mass tourism. We offers the possibility to enjoy a unique experience which will lead you to the historic, artistic and popular heart of the northern part of the Venetian Lagoon, comfortably seated in a Grand Tourism motor-boats driven by an highly qualified crew and guided by a specialized tour guide. You will visit MURANO, BURANO and TORCELLO. Note: The entrance inside the churches in Torcello is not included.

Clients must always be at the meeting points 20 minutes before departure time

(Rates on request) FROM

DEPARTURES: Daily from April to October DURATION: 2 hours approx PICK UP: From Campo San Moisè (in front of Bauer Hotel) at 3.30 pm.

INCLUSIONS: Guide, Earphones for bigger groups, Gondola ride Gondole

You will enjoy a panoramic walking tour with the Guide passing by some special places: Piazza San Marco, Teatro la Fenice (“The Phoenix”), one of the most famous opera house in Europe, Scala del Bovolo, an unique spiral staircase with a plethora of arches and Rialto Bridge and its typical shops, one of the architectural icons of Venice.

At the end of the walking tour you will enjoy a relaxing gondola ride (up to 6 people per gondola – 35 minutes ride) on the Grand and minor canals.

Note: The Gondola Ride does not operate in case of exceptionally bad weather, high/low tide or local gondolier’s strike. Each gondola can guest maximum 6 people; the seat aboard cannot be chosen but will be assigned by the gondolier depending of guests weight. On the gondola ride there is no commentary.This tour is not fully accessible for wheelchair users or people with walking disabilities.

Clients must be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure time

VENETIAN WATERWAYS BY GONDOLA

Gondole

FROM

DEPARTURES: Daily DURATION: 45 minutes approx. Including time for embarkation (gondola ride lasts 35m. approx) PICK UP: From Church of San Moisè in Campo San Moisè, 1456 (close to Piazza San Marco) at 4.00 pm.

INCLUSIONS: 30 minutes approx. gondola ride, multilingual assistance for embarkation, map with description of palaces you admire during the tour

A romantic “promenade” by gondola that will take you along the canals of Venice, one of the most important tourist destinations in the world, due to the city being one of the world’s greatest and most beautiful cities of art. During your pleasant ride you will admire the Mozart House, the worldwide famous La Fenice Theatre, the Gran Canal, where you will admire the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Once reached the Salute Church you will enjoy a quick unique breathtaking view of the Doges Palace and of St. Marks’ Bell tower.

Note: Each gondola can guest maximum 6 people; the seat aboard cannot be chosen but will be assigned by the gondolier depending of guests weight –Tour does not operate in case of exceptionally bad weather or local gondolier’s strike. NO commentary on tour Clients must be at the meeting point 10 minutes before departure time

14

VENICE REGULAR DAILY TOURS THE UNUSUAL VENICE (DISCOVER VENICE)

Venice

FROM

FROM

THE ABSOLUTE VENICE (WALKING TOUR + DOGE’S PALACE + GOLDEN BASILICA)

Piazza San Marco

DEPARTURES: from Monday to Saturday ( except 25 Apr, 15 Aug and during religious celebrations) DURATION: 3h30 approx (+ 2hrs with optional tour of Murano) PICK UP: From Clock Tower (St. Mark’s Square) near “YEX” exchange office(the white building with the blue clock façade) at 9.00 am.

INCLUSIONS: Guided tour with commentary, Entrance ticket to the Doge’s Palace “jump the queue”, Entrance to the Basilica “jump the queue”, earphones for bigger groups

With this amazing walking tour you will see the main monuments of Venice: the Basilica San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Bell Tower, Clock Tower, Procuratie, Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo (the “Pantheon” of Venice), the Marco Polo’s House and the Malibran Theatre. Take a guided tour through Doge’s Palace (the Palazzo Ducale), the seat of the Venetian political power. Follow a tour guide through St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the most majestic cathedrals in the world. Learn about byzantine art and its religious background while taking a glimpse at the gold mosaics and marble floors.

After the visit of the basilica you will be given a free coupon for a visit to a Murano glass factory. Please note this is a free of charge optional trip by private boat to Murano Island (generally scheduled from 2pm to 4pm) and it is not a part of the tour. Be kindly aware that this optional visit could take longer than the scheduled time and that we do not recommend to participate if you have other reservation scheduled on the same day.

Clients must always be at the meeting points 15 minutes before departure time

FROM

VENETIAN SAVOURS

DEPARTURES: Daily from April to October DURATION: 1h20 approx.

PICK UP: From Campo San Moisè (in front of Bauer Hotel, St. Mark’s square) at 3.45 pm.

INCLUSIONS: guided tour with commentary, earphones for bigger groups

The only way to visit the unusual and fascinating corners of Venice off the beaten track and where time seems to have stood still centuries ago You will enjoy a panoramic walking tour with the Guide passing by some special places: Piazza San Marco, Teatro la Fenice (“The Phoenix”), one of the most famous opera house in Europe, Scala del Bovolo, an unique spiral staircase with a plethora of arches and Rialto Bridge and its typical shops, one of the architectural icons of Venice.

Clients must always be at the meeting points 15 minutes before departure time

(Rates on request)

Rialto Bridge

DEPARTURES: from April to October – On Tuesday, Friday, Saturday DURATION: 1h45 approx.

PICK UP: From Campo San Bartolomeo by the statue of Carlo Goldoni (few steps from Rialto Bridge) at 6.00 pm INCLUSIONS: Guided tour with commentary and food and wine tasting

The tour foresees an expert tour guide accompanying you through the Venetian “calli” (streets) to discover the local Venetian “Bacari” (bars) and sample “Cicchetti” (snacks) which are specialties of Venetian cuisine. Thanks to this fascinating itinerary you will admire a Venice enchanted by the lights and its unforgettable colors and you will have the unique chance to taste the real Venetian cuisine. The evening will end on a high note, thanks to a drink which will be served to you in an elegant Venetian house (or typical bar)!

Clients must always be at the meeting points 15 minutes before departure time Note: Any drinks or snacks for children under 3 years are not included and shall be paid on the spot.

LEGENDS AND GHOSTS OF VENICE

Piazza San Marco

FROM

DEPARTURES: from April to October – On Tuesday, Friday, Saturday DURATION: 1h45 approx.

PICK UP: From Campo San Bartolomeo by the statue of Carlo Goldoni (few steps from Rialto Bridge) at 8.00 pm INCLUSIONS: Guided tour with commentary and food and wine tasting

Have an evening walk to discover unusual itineraries accompanied by tales of the rich tradition of legends and anecdotes of a very secret Venice. You will experience the magical moment when the unique Venetian twilight turns to darkness. The itinerary of the tour is variable in order to avoid the crowd of tourists and to fully appreciate the mysterious and quiet atmosphere of Rialto area, Cannaregio and Castello.

Clients must always be at the meeting points 15 minutes before departure time

15

MILAN REGULAR DAILY TOURS OPEN CITY TOUR (HOP-ON, HOP-OFF)

FROM

(Rates on request)

LA SCALA MUSEUM AND THEATRE

VALIDITY: 24 or 48hours DEPARTURES: Daily DURATION: 2 hours approx.

DETAILS: - 8 languages commentary - Courier assistance - Wifi available on board - Wheelchairs welcome

DEPARTURES: Every Saturday (Except 1st January, 1st May, 25th December) MEETING: 2.30 p.m. with the guide at the entrance of the La Scala shop INCLUSIONS: English speaking guide

Duomo

La Scala

3 lines, 6 buses and commentary in 8 languages allow you to discover and visit the Castello Sforzesco, the Basilica of Saint Ambrose, the Parco delle Basiliche and State University, and then continuing towards the Duomo, passing by the Madonnina and reach the Teatro alla Scala.

Line B runs instead through the new city skyscrapers and takes guests on shopping streets where 2 non-stop Km shop windows attract the most discerning international clientele.

Validity starts from the first boarding.

MORNING & AFTERNOON CITY TOUR

Last Supper

FROM

DEPARTURES: Daily (Except Mondays, 1st January, 1st May, 25th December) DURATION: 2 hours approx.

PICK UP: From Foro Bonaparte, 76 at 9.30 am (morning tour) or 2.30 pm (afternoon tour) INCLUSIONS: Transportation, English speaking guide, entrance ticket to “The Last Supper” and La Scala theatre

Guided bus and walking tour for a panoramic view of the city with bilingual tour guide. The 1 hour walking tour includes a visit of La Scala, the Duomo and the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery. This tour also includes a guided visit to “The Last Supper”, the world-famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci, located near the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Panoramic city tour by bus: Sant’Ambrogio, Parco delle Basiliche, Statale University, Corso Venezia, Piazza San Babila, Piazza Fontana.

Note: the tour operates with a minimum of 2 persons

MILAN BRERA MUSEUM

FROM

A unique opportunity to discover the secrets of one of the most famous theatres in the world. With a specialized guide you will visit the Opera house: the foyer, the auditorium, the decorated boxes, the royal box, the hall, the stage, the pit orchestra, the fly tower and the fly gallery on the 7th floor. You also access the Museum theatre that offers a collection of musical instruments, portraits, busts of documents dedicated to the great Italian composers like Giuseppe Verdi and Arturo Toscanini.

Note: the tour operates with a minimum of 2 persons and maximum 10. The Theatre hall is visible from a box, unless there is a rehearsal or a show being performed.

FROM

MILAN BY NIGHT

DEPARTURES: Every Friday (from April to October) PICK UP: From Foro Bonaparte, 76 at 8.00 pm INCLUSIONS: English speaking guide, tour by bus as per program, aperitif including 1 drink and various appetizers Navigli canal

This tour is a great opportunity to see the sights of Milan beautifully illuminated at night and to discover the lively Milanese night life starting from the “ritual” of the happy hour, to the long “clubbing” from one bar to another running from 11.00 pm to about 4 a.m. The hot spots for nightlife are the Navigli canal district, the trendy area of Corso Como and Corso Garibaldi and the artsy Brera district.

Note: the tour operates with a minimum of 10 persons

FROM

DEPARTURES: Every Sunday (Except 1st January, 1st May, 25th December) MEETING: 10.30 a.m. with the guide at the main entrance of Palazzo Brera (Via Brera, 28) INCLUSIONS: English speaking guide, entrance ticket to the Pinacoteca Brera

MILAN SAN SIRO STADIUM TOUR

DEPARTURES: Every Monday (from January 28 to March 31) PICK UP: From Foro Bonaparte, 76 at 10.30 am INCLUSIONS: English speaking guide, tour by bus as per program, entrance ticket and guided visit of the stadium

Pinacoteca di Brera

Guided visit to the Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan, one of the most famous and important Italian museums for its prestigious collections of ancient and modern painting. The gallery is mainly a large gallery of ancient paintings. A pleasant stroll through the district of Brera, with a short visit to the church of San Marco will lead us to the Pinacoteca for a guided tour of the various halls and most important works. After the visit, we suggest a stop for lunch (not included) in one of several bars and restaurant of the district.

Note: the tour operates with a minimum of 2 persons

FROM

San Siro Stadium

A great opportunity to visit a real “temple” of football: the Stadio Meazza, better known as San Siro Stadium! Feel the emotion, remember the stadium’s golden past and celebrate today’s champions at the “Inter and Milan” museum, dedicated to the two famous Milanese teams. Visit the ground, the tiers and changing rooms with a stadium guide, then free time to visit the museum and for some shopping at the official stadium shop.

Note: the tour operates with a minimum of 2 persons. We don’t sell tickets for football matches. Tour suspended on match days or in occasion of special events

16

MILAN REGULAR DAILY TOURS EXCURSION TO LAKE COMO AND BELLAGIO

(Rates on request)

FROM

DEPARTURES: Every Day (from April to October) DURATION: full day PICK UP: From Foro Bonaparte, 76 at 10.30 am INCLUSIONS: English speaking tour leader, return bus trip, boat cruise Bellagio

Visit of Como and boat trip on the lake to see its beautiful “villas”. With a surface of 146 square kilometres, Lake Como is the third- largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda and Lake Verbano. Arrival at Como and visit of the city centre. Panoramic boat cruise on the lake to Bellagio Transfer by bus to the Basilica S. Abbondio (beautiful Romanesque church with precious frescos).

At 16.45 p.m. departure for return trip. Drop-off at Foro Bonaparte 76.

Note: the tour operates with a minimum of 6 persons

EXCURSION TO VERONA AND LAKE GARDA

FROM

DEPARTURES: Every Friday (from April to October) DURATION: full day PICK UP: From Foro Bonaparte, 76 at 7.30 am INCLUSIONS: English speaking tour leader, return bus trip Romeo and Juliet house

Visit the beautiful and romantic city of Romeo and Juliet! Verona is one of Italy’s loveliest towns. You can spend a long time exploring the narrow streets lined with ‘palazzi’ that make up the historic centre.

Some of the churches contain fine works of art, while the ruined Teatro Romano over the river has excellent views from the terraces where the ancients watched plays.

Note: the tour operates with a minimum of 6 persons

IMPORTANT: schedules and prices of tours may change.

Excursions which includes the visit to the Cenacolo Vinciano (Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper), do not have any commission.

17

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

ART CITY BREAKS

ROME - ANGELS & DEMONS TOUR 4 days | 3 nights Day 1) Arrival in Rome and private transfer to hotel. Check in and time at leisure.

Overnight stay.

Day 2) Today experience book and film packed in an exciting tour through Rome.

Three and half hours long not one second of boredom. A complete city tour with a focus on Roman Barocco, but including Vatican highlights as well as the Old Rome. An Angels & Demons Tour considered to be one of the most exciting day trips in Rome. Based on the book by Dan Brown, this tour is through the

PRICES On request

Eternal City follows the path of the "Illuminati" and visits Santa Maria del Popolo church, Piazza del Popolo, Santa Maria della Vittoria church, Piazza della Minerva, Piazza Navona, Castel Sant'Angelo and Saint Peter's Square.

Lunch and dinner free. Afternoon free.

Day 3) Free time. We suggest a day of “Vacanze Romane” on board vintage Vespa and Lambretta scooters!

Rome

Day 4) Check out and transfer to the airport by private car.

INCLUSIONS: • 3 nights in your selected, centrally located Hotel • 1 half day private city tour (4 hours) • Return private transfer from Rome airport to your hotel • Daily breakfast • VAT

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ART CITY BREAKS 19

ROME - CAPUT MUNDI 3 days | 2 nights Day 1) Upon arrival, transfer by private car to hotel in Rome. Tonight enjoy a private guided tour by car of Rome by night. See Via Veneto, centre of La Dolce Vita, and move on to Piazza Barberini, to view Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Triton Fountain. Next up is Piazza Venezia and the gigantic Vittoriano. The Capitol Hill starts you in your way to the Theatre of Marcellus, the Temple of Hercules, the Bocca della Verità, the Circo Massimo, Tiber Island, the Roman Synagogue, Castel Sant’Angelo, and finally St. Peter Square. Lunch and dinner free. Overnight stay.

Peter’s Basilica, the largest of all Catholic churches, with its amazing grand and elaborate interior, and the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. Admire the Sistine Chapel, with its Michelangelo’s masterpiece ceiling and Last Judgement.

Free time for lunch. In the afternoon guided tour of ancient Rome including: the Coliseum (exterior), the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill, Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and finally Piazza Navona. Dinner free. Overnight stay.

Rome

Day 3) After breakfast in your hotel, transfer to Rome airport for your return flight.

Day 2) In the morning guided tour of St.

PRICES On request

INCLUSIONS: • 2 nights in your selected, centrally located Hotel • private transfer on arrival and departure • private car for the Rome by night tour (3 hours) • private car for the Rome tour (a.m. 4 hours +

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p.m. 3 hours) • private guide for: Rome by night, Vatican Museums and ancient Rome • admission fees to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel • Daily breakfast • VAT

ART CITY BREAKS 20

FLORENCE 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Upon arrival at Florence airport transfer by private car to your hotel in Florence. Rest of the day at leisure. Lunch and Dinner free. Overnight.

Day 2) Morning dedicated to exploring Florence ending at the Accademia Gallery. Afternoon at leisure for additional cultural visits or for shopping in the famous Leather Market. Lunch and dinner free. Overnight

PRICES On request SEASONS : High Season: 24 March – 15 November, 23 December – 02 January Low Season: 03-31 January, February, 01-23 March, 16 November-22 December INCLUSIONS: • 4 nights’ accommodation in the selected hotel category • Daily breakfast

Day 3) Day at leisure.

Day 4) Morning free. Afternoon dedicated to visit Florence and the Uffizi Gallery. Lunch and dinner free. Overnight.

Day 5) Private transfer to Florence airport for your return flight.

Florence

• Private transfer on arrival and departure

• Children policy: 0-2 years old 100% reduction

• 1 morning walking half day regular tour (join

• Cancellation policy: no fees within 72 hours

in) of Florence including Accademia Gallery

notice. For late cancellations 30% of the total

with guide

cost of the package will be charged.

• 1 afternoon walking half day regular tour (join in) of Florence including Uffizi Gallery

For No-shows the total cost of package will be charged • Accommodation taxes are not included and are

with guide • VAT

to be paid locally by the customers • VAT percentage could be revised by Italian

PACKAGE’S NOTES:

Government during the year and rates could be

• During fairs and exhibitions, rates are on

revised

request

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ART CITY BREAKS 21

VENICE 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrival in Venice Airport and private transfer to your hotel by private car and boat. Check in and enjoy leisure time for the rest of the day. Overnight stay.

(appetizers). Enjoy some of the finest Veneto wines and taste the best food the city of Venice has to offer in a typical Venetian Osteria. Overnight in Venice.

Day 2) Guided half-day morning walking tour of Venice (join-in). Discover Venice’s major sites and marvel at the beauty of this unique e and romantic city. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight stay.

Day 4) Morning at leisure. In the afternoon, join a gondola ride throughout the Venetian canals. Overnight stay.

Day 3) Morning at leisure. In the afternoon experience an unforgettable tour of 3 bacari (typical Venetian tavern) with a delicious aperitif that will substitute the dinner, with traditional Venetian cicchetti

PRICES On request SEASONS : High Season: High Season: 23-28 February (Venice Carnival), 24 March-18 November, 23 December-02 January Low Season: 3-31 January, 01-22 February, 0123 March, -19 November-22 December INCLUSIONS: • 4 nights in Venice in the selected category hotel

Venice

Day 5) Check out and private departure transfer to Venice airport for your return flight.

• Daily breakfast

PACKAGE’S NOTES:

• 1 walking half day regular tour (join in) of

• Children policy: 0-2 years old 100% reduction • Cancellation policy: no fees within 72 hours

Venice with guide • 1 afternoon regular (join in) gondola tour (35 minutes approx. of gondola ride )

notice. For late cancellations 30% of the total cost of the package will be charged. For No-

• 1 bacari tour (3 osteria, 12 cicchetti, 1 spritz,

shows the total cost of package will be charged

1 glass of prosecco, 1 mini glass of red wine

• Accommodation taxes are not included and are

per person) in Venice with a food expert English speaking assistant. Duration: 150/180 minutes approx.

• Return private transfer Venice airport – hotel

to be paid locally by the customers • VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly

(by water taxi and car) • VAT

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ART CITY BREAKS 22

MILAN 4 days | 3 nights Day 1) For those with little time who want to sample the “best” that Milan has to offer, we suggest this 4 days short break. Upon arrival, transfer by private car to your hotel in the center of the city. Day at leisure. Enjoy the city on your own; you can walk through lush Sempione Park, Milan's green lung with its delightful lakes. Overnight stay..

Day 2) After breakfast meeting at your hotel with your private guide for a city tour of Milan. Walk the streets of Milan with your private guide and discover many of the monuments and museums Milan has to offer. This is a great way for first time visitors and new arrivals to find their orientation within the city while beginning to explore Milan's rich history and heritage.

Overnight stay

PRICES On request SEASONS : High Season: February, March, April, May, June, Sept., Oct., Nov., Dec. New Year’s Eve Low Season: January, July, August, November, December (New Year’s Eve excluded)

Day 3) Today, spend the full day exploring the city on your own. Absolutely not to be missed is the visit to the Bosco Verticale (vertical forest), which is the award-winning residential building that recalls the hanging gardens of Babylon. Then you can start browsing through the streets of high fashion, heading towards Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and Via Montenapoleone, then you can relax with an aperitif in one of the most characteristic and fashionable areas of Milan’s day life and nightlife: the Navigli (canals). The Navigli area is one of the busiest for the quantity and variety of local markets, artisans, bars, night clubs.

Overnight stay.

Milan

Day 4) After breakfast, private transfer to the Malpensa Airport for your return flight.

INCLUSIONS:

PACKAGE’S NOTES:

• 3 nights in your selected centrally located

• During fairs and exhibitions rates are on request

hotel

• Accommodation taxes are not included and

• daily breakfast

are to be paid locally by the customers

• private transfer on arrival and departure

• VAT percentage could be revised by Italian

• 3 hours private guide

Government during the year and rates could

• VAT

be revised accordingly.

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ART CITY BREAKS 23

TURIN 4 days | 3 nights Day 1) For those with little time who want to sample the “best” that Turin has to offer, we suggest this 4 days short break. Upon arrival, transfer by private car to your hotel in the center of the city. Day at leisure to enjoy the city on your own. According to Giorgio De Chirico "Turin is the deepest, most enigmatic, most disturbing city, not of Italy but of the world"; well, this is a great starting point that encourages anyone to know this city… Overnight stay.

Day 2) Breakfast at your hotel. Meet your guide and discover the iconic landmarks of Turin on a walking tour that gives insights into the city's history and architecture. See monuments such as the Palazzo Reale and Mole Antonelliana, and walk under the arcades of Via Po. Instead of having a dinner, we suggest an apericena (pre-dinner drinks and nibbles): the most Turin way to end the

PRICES On request SEASONS : High Season: 11-31 March, April, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, 01-15 Nov, 25Dec-02 Jan Low Season: 03-31 Jan, Feb, 01-10 Mar, 16-30 Nov, 01-24 Dec

day. The legendary apericena or aperitif to recover the hardships of the day just ended is a must. There are excellent ones in the San Salvario area (near the Valentino Park), such as Beerba, Zelli Wine bar, Pasticceria Capello and many others. Overnight stay.

Turin

Day 3) Today, spend the full day exploring the city on your own. We suggest a stop to the Caffè Al Bicerin: how about starting this day in a decidedly greedy way? Then we invite you to taste the Bicerin, the typical Piedmontese hot drink in the place where it was born, the historical café founded in 1793 Caffè Confetteria Al Bicerin in the central Piazza della Consolata. Coffee was Cavour's favourite, and that of the Piedmontese of today! Overnight stay.

Day 4) After breakfast, private transfer to the Malpensa Airport for your return flight.

INCLUSIONS:

PACKAGE’S NOTES:

• 3 nights in your selected centrally located

• During fairs and exhibitions rates are on request

hotel

• Accommodation taxes are not included and

• daily breakfast

are to be paid locally by the customers

• private transfer on arrival and departure • 1 private half day walking tour with guide – 2 hours (no entries)

• VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

• VAT

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ART CITY BREAKS 24

NAPLES 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Upon arrival, transfer by private car to hotel in Naples. Balance of the day at leisure. Overnight stay.

Day 2) Breakfast and time to visit Naples most famous monuments with your private guide: Castel Nuovo known as Maschio Angioino, Royal Palace, San Carlo opera house, Santa Chiara Complex. A stop to San Gennaro Museum where an inestimable treasure is preserved dated back 1300.

Closed to the Museum the Real Chapel where you can visit Luca Giordano frescos’ and Domenichino paintings and the most important the beaker with San Gennaro blood. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Naples.

Day 3) Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the secrets of the true Neapolitan pizza by tak-

PRICES On request SEASONS : High Season: 16-31 March, April, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, 01-15Nov, 25Dec-02 Jan Low Season: 03-31 Jan, Feb, 01-15Mar, 16-30 Nov, 01-24Dec

ing part in a cooking class, and then you will eat the pizza you have prepared! Balance of the day to stroll around the streets of the famous Spaccanapoli part of town and some gourmand shopping. Pop into the Scaturchio patisserie to sample some traditional Neapolitan desserts such as the Ministeriale cake. Overnight stay..

Naples

Day 4) Entirely day at your leisure. We suggest you to discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii, the opulent Roman city that was buried beneath the rubble from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, situated about 27 km south of Naples.

Overnight stay.

Day 5) Breakfast in your hotel, checkout and end of our services.

INCLUSIONS:

PACKAGE’S NOTES:

• 4 nights’ accommodation in the selected

• Accommodation taxes are not included and

hotel category

are to be paid locally by the customers

• Daily breakfast

• VAT percentage could be revised by Italian

• Private car services:

Government during the year and rates could

• Transfer on arrival

be revised accordingly.

• Private guiding service: • Walking tour (3 hours) – No entries • 1 Pizza cooking lesson followed by pizza lunch • VAT

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ART CITY BREAKS 25

I T A LY B O U T I Q U E J O U R N E Y

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

TRAIN TOURS

ITALIAN PASSION - TRAIN TOUR, ROME AND NAPLES 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrival in Rome and transfer to hotel by private car. Check in and time at leisure. Overnight stay.

Day 4) Departure for a regular city tour of Naples. Free time in the afternoon.

Overnight stay.

Day 2) Discover the secrets of “Eternal Rome” with a regular city tour. In the afternoon free time for shopping or optional city tour. Overnight stay.

Day 5) Check out and depart for Rome by train. On arrival transfer to Rome airport for return flight.

Rome

Day 3) Departure for Naples by train.

Check in to your hotel and time at leisure.

Overnight stay.

PRICES On request

Naples

INCLUSIONS:

• Arrival transfer from Rome airport to your

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Rome

hotel by private car

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Naples

• Departure transfer from Rome train station

• 1 half day city tour in Rome (join-in tour) • 1 half day city tour in Naples (join-in tour)

to Rome airport by private car • Daily breakfast

• Return 2nd class train tickets

• VAT

Rome/Naples/Rome

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TRAIN TOURS 28

ITALIAN ART TREASURES TRAIN TOUR ROME AND FLORENCE 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrival in Rome and transfer to hotel by private car. Check in and time at leisure. Overnight stay.

Day 4) Departure for a regular city tour of Florence. Free time in the afternoon.

Overnight stay.

Day 2) Discover the secrets of “Eternal Rome” with a regular city tour. In the afternoon free time for shopping or optional city tour. Overnight stay.

Day 5) Check out and depart for Rome by train. On arrival transfer to Rome airport for return flight.

Florence

Day 3) Departure for Florence by train.

Check in to your hotel and time at leisure.

Overnight stay.

PRICES On request

Rome

INCLUSIONS:

Rome/Florence/Rome

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Rome • 2 nights in your selected hotel in Florence

• Transfer from Rome airport to your hotel by private car

• 1 half day regular (join in) city tour in Rome

• Transfer from Rome train station to Rome

• 1 half day city regular (join in) walking tour

airport by private car • Daily breakfast

in Florence • Return 2nd class train tickets

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• VAT

TRAIN TOURS 29

ITALIAN ENCHANTING DUO TRAIN TOUR, ROME AND VENICE 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrival in Rome and transfer to hotel by private car. Check in and time at leisure. Overnight stay.

Day 2) Discover the secrets of “Eternal Rome” with a guided regular city tour. In the afternoon free time for shopping or optional city tour. Overnight stay.

Day 4) Departure for a regular walking city tour of Venice. In the afternoon free time for shopping or optional tour. Overnight stay.

Venice

Day 5) Check out and transfer to Venice airport for return flight.

Day 3) Departure for Venice by train.

Check in to your hotel and time at leisure.

Overnight stay.

Rome

PRICES On request

INCLUSIONS:

• Transfer from Rome airport to your hotel by

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Rome

private car

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Venice

• Transfer from Venice hotel to Venice airport by

• 1 half day regular (join in) city tour in Rome

private boat & car • Daily breakfast

• 1 half day regular (join in) walking city tour

• VAT

in Venice • OW 2nd class train tickets Rome/Venice

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TRAIN TOURS 30

ITALIAN MAJESTIC TRIO TRAIN TOUR ROME, FLORENCE AND VENICE 7 days | 6 nights Day 1) Arrival in Rome and transfer to hotel by private car. Check in and time at leisure.

Overnight stay.

Day 2) Discover the secrets of “Eternal Rome” with a regular city tour. In the afternoon free time for shopping or optional city tour. Overnight stay.

Day 3) Departure for Florence by train.

Check in to your hotel and time at leisure.

Overnight stay.

Florence. Free time in the afternoon.

Overnight stay.

Day 5) Check out and depart for Venice by train. Check in and time at leisure. Overnight stay.

Venice

Day 6) Departure for a regular city tour of Venice. In the afternoon free time for shopping or optional tour. Overnight stay.

Florence

Day 7) Check out and transfer to Venice airport for return flight.

Day 4) Departure for a regular city tour of

Rome

PRICES

INCLUSIONS:

• 2nd class train ticket Florence/Venice

3On request

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Rome

• Arrival transfer from Rome airport to your

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Florence

hotel by private car

• 2 nights in your selected hotel in Venice

• Transfer from Venice hotel to Venice airport by

• 1 half day city tour in Rome (join-in tour) • 1 half day city tour in Florence (join-in tour)

private boat & car • Daily breakfast

• 1 half day city tour in Venice (join-in tour)

• VAT

• 2nd class train ticket Rome/Florence

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TRAIN TOURS 31

VENICE AND VERONA BY TRAIN 7 days | 6 nights Day 1) Arrival in Venice, transfer to hotel in Mestre. Day free. Lunch and dinner free. Overnight in Mestre Venice.

Day 5) Train to Venice Mestre. Day free.

Lunch and dinner free. Overnight in Venice Mestre.

Day 2) Regular excursion Venice walking tour. Lunch and dinner free. Overnight in Venice.

Day 6) Departure to Venice, own transfer.

Regular excursion to Murano, Burano and Torcello islands. Back to Mestre on your own. Overnight.

Day 3) Train to Verona. Own transfer to the hotel. Day free. Lunch and dinner free.

Overnight in Verona.

Venice

Day 7) Private transfer to Venice Marco Polo airport for your return flight.

Day 4) Morning departure with private car from hotel to Valpolicella area for a wine tasting. Overnight in Verona.

PRICES

INCLUSIONS:

On request

• 6 nights in 4* hotel:

• Private car at disposal for H/D visit to a vineyard in the Valpolicella area

• Mestre Venice 2 nights

• Wine tasting

• Verona 2 nights

• 1 half day regular excursion to Venice

• Mestre Venice 2 nights

islands, Murano, Burano and Torcello with

• Daily breakfast

guide (boat trip to buy and pay on the spot)

• Return private transfer by car Venice airport / hotel in Mestre Venice • 2 hours regular day tour in Venice

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• 2nd class return train ticket Venice Mestre / Verona by fast train • VAT

TRAIN TOURS 32

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

FOOD & WINE

UMBRIA - CHOCOLATE WINE AND POTTERY TOUR 4 days | 3 nights Day 1) Arrival at Rome Fiumicino Airport.

Private transfer to your Hotel in Perugia.

Welcome drink. Overnight.

Day 2) Guided walking tour of Perugia.

Lunch free. In the afternoon departure with your private guide for different activities : visit of a chocolate factory, wine tasting along with visit of winery, visit of Montefalco. Back to the hotel. Free time.

Dinner in a typical restaurant to taste

Perugia

some traditional umbrian dishes.

Day 3) Departure for Deruta with your private guide to visit a pottery factory followed by a snack lunch in a farmhouse. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner free. Overnight stay.

Day 4) Departure by private car to Rome Fiumicino International airport for return flight home.

* July, Umbria Jazz event close out dates

PRICES

INCLUSIONS:

On request

• • • •

typical products • 1 typical dinner (drinks not included) • 1 light lunch (drinks not included) • Round Trip private transfer Rome Fiumicino airport/Hotel in Perugia • VAT

3 nights in your selected hotel Welcome drink on arrival Daily Breakfast 1 full day + 1 half day private guided tours with private car • 1 local wine tasting and tasting of

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 34

LAZIO - ROME ART & FOOD 4 days | 3 nights

Day 1) Arrival in Rome Fiumicino Airport.

Private transfer to your hotel. Time at leisure to discover the city.

Day 2) Start to discover the Eternal City on your own. At lunchtime we suggest a wine tasting at Eataly Ostiense.

Sample several delicious wines from the region as well as local products.

Day 3) In the morning a private cooking lesson in the city centre. In the afternoon start to explore the rest of the city by yourself: for example St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums with the famous Sistine Chapel.

Rome

Day 4) Private transfer to the airport.

PRICES

INCLUSIONS:

On request

• 3 nights in your selected, centrally located

(min 2 pax, 3 types of wine) • Return private transfer airport/hotel • Daily breakfast

Hotel • 1 private cooking lesson (min 2 pax)

• VAT

• 1 local wine tasting at Eataly

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 35

TUSCANY GOURMET & CINQUE TERRE (escorted) MONTECATINI, FLORENCE, SAN GIMIGNANO, SIENA, LUCCA, PISA, CINQUE TERRE

7 days | 6 nights

Cinque Terre Lucca Pisa

TOUR FEATURES A tour to explore a region of sprawling vineyards, rolling hills, charming old cities, masterpieces of Art and Gourmandize.

Visit the magnificent Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance”; Siena, famous for the Palio horse race; San Gimignano with its tall towers; Lucca, a walled city that was the birthplace of Puccini; Pisa with its extraordinary Leaning Tower and discover the stunning Cinque Terre. Unlock the secret of Tuscan cuisine with wine and

Florence Siena

typical products tastings and an exclusive cookery class.

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of Art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - Florence, the cradle of the Italian

Renaissance, with the masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery, the Santa Croce church, the Baptistery, the Duomo and Giotto’s bell tower, the Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio bridge - Siena, where the famous Palio race takes place in the ancient Piazza del

Palio square - San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its wonderful medieval towers and the San Gimignano 1300 Museum - Lucca, a walled city birthplace of composer Puccini - Pisa, which is home not only to the leaning tower, but also to some magnificent cathedrals and baroque buildings.

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival Arrival at your hotel in Montecatini on your own. Time to settle in, meet our Tour Escort and welcome dinner.

During the evening, there will be a welcome introduction to the tour.

Overnight stay. D

Day 2) Florence Morning departure to Florence. Walking tour through the historical center of this amazing city and admire the religious buildings (the Baptistry, the Duomo and Giotto’s bell tower) and the houses of power in the old city (the Piazza della Signoria) end of visit at the famous Mercato Centrale which is a large covered marketplace where authenticity, spontaneity and tradition play a leading role. Each stall is an ideal place for shopping and where one can find real, honest food at the right price, the very best which Tuscany and Italy have to offer.

Sample some delicacies.

Enjoy free time in the afternoon. Transfer to the Hotel and overnight stay. BB, T

discover the secrets of coffee roasting.

Continue the morning for a special encounter with a renowned Tuscan Chef and learn some of the Arts of Traditional Italian cooking.

Prepare your own lunch and simple savour and enjoy it! Free time in the afternoon. Overnight stay. BB, C, L

Day 4) Pisa & Lucca Travel to Pisa, whose extraordinary Leading Tower has withstood the force of gravity for almost 600 years. Proceed to Lucca, one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets. Cooking Show with lunch served on the ancient walls. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. BB, LL

Day 3) Montecatini

Day 5) Free day - optional excursion to Cinque Terre

Visit to an Artisan Coffee Blender to

We suggest you the excursion to the

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SLOW FOOD - FOOD & WINE PACKAGES 37

Cinque Terre. You will travel to the Italian Riviera, which includes the five captivating villages that make up the Cinque Terre. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. BB

Day 6) San Gimignano, Siena Morning departure for San Gimignano, famous for its medieval architecture and its Towers. At the height of its glory, San

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request

Departure Dates 2019 May: 23rd June: 15th July: 13th September: 5th and 14th October: 5th The rates include: - 6 nights in a 4* charming hotel - Daily Buffet Breakfast - 4 meals based on traditional regional dishes:

Gimignano's patrician families had built around 72 tower-houses as symbols of their wealth and power. Although only 14 have survived, San Gimignano still retains its feudal atmosphere and appearance.

Stop is made at a famous Artisan ice cream maker to sample their specialties.

Leave San Gimignano behind and head towards Siena driving along the ancient Via Francigena route to experience some

- 1 Slow Food welcome dinner - 1 lunch after the cooking lesson - 1 lunch with cooking show - 1 farewell dinner - 3 tastings of a selection of wines and/or typical products from the Tuscany region - 1 Cooking lesson - Guided visit of Firenze (half day – no entrance fees included) - Travel in state-of the-art, luxury motor coaches - Baggage Handling for the full duration of the tour - Professional Tour Directors and licensed local guides as per itinerary - VAT

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local wine tasting. Admire the most important and most beautiful architecture in Siena and some free time for shopping before returning to the hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay. BB, T, T, D

Day 7) Departure After breakfast, free time. End of tour. BB

The rates do not include: - Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

Note: If a change of hotel, restaurant, winery or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be of equivalent or superior to those shown.

SLOW FOOD - FOOD & WINE PACKAGES 38

TUSCANY AND UMBRIA WINE & FOOD TOUR SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) Florence

7 nights | 8 days Day 1) Florence Arrival at Florence Airport, collect your luggage and then private transfer to your hotel. Check-in and accommodation.

Balance of the day at leisure. Overnight in Florence.

Day 2) Florence After breakfast, morning dedicated to exploring Florence with your private guide. A walking tour to Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, the elegant palaces and fashionable shops, the impressive cathedral square with Brunelleschi’s imposing dome will all be the focus of your pleasant slowly paced tour ending at the Uffizi Gallery. The Gallery which entirely occupies the first and second floors of the large building constructed

Siena Assisi

between 1560 and 1580, it is famous worldwide for its outstanding collections of ancient sculptures and paintings (from the Middle Ages to the Modern period).

The collections of paintings from the 14thcentury and Renaissance period include some absolute masterpieces: Giotto, Simone Martini, Piero della Francesca, Beato Angelico, Filippo Lippi, Botticelli, Mantegna, Correggio, Leonardo, Raffaello, Michelangelo and Caravaggio, in addition to many precious works by European painters (mainly German, Dutch and Flemish). Then you will enjoy a cooking class in the center followed by a light lunch. Rest of the afternoon at leisure for additional cultural visits or for shopping in the famous Leather Market. Dinner on own. Overnight in Florence.

Day 3) Florence, Chianti Area After the breakfast at the hotel, you will head into Tuscany. Collect your car and early departure from your hotel to Chianti area. Entire day given over to discovering the Chianti hills along the Via Chiantigena (an ancient road connecting Siena with Florence crossing over the hills of Chianti). Visit to an Azienda Agricola (farmhouse) in Radda in Chianti, visit to

the cellars and enjoy a wine tasting. Arrive at Greve in Chianti, where we suggest a degustation to the Antica Macelleria Falorni, to taste some typical salami and last not least, we suggest visiting the little historical town center. Check in at your hotel in Chianti area. Dinner on own.

Day 4) Siena and San Gimignano Departure in the morning, you will head into Siena, often considered one of the most enchanting cities in Italy. Meet your private guide for a half-day city tour: you will wander through this medieval city viewing its gothic architecture and art-filled piazzas. The Piazza del Campo is the famous site of Siena’s horserace, the Palio.

We suggest to sample of some delicious traditional desserts like the Panforte in one of the most famous pastry shops in town.

Free time for shopping. On the way to San Gimignano along the ancient Via Francigena, lunch with some of the traditional local produce such as the Certaldo onion, and the organic extra virgin olive oil from San Gimignano at the little family-run farmhouse Il Castagnolino. Visit and have a talk on the techniques used in producing organic olive oil. In the afternoon, guided visit of San Gimignano, one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Italy. Admire the many towers, once the skyscrapers of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries.

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: - 7 nights’ accommodation: - Florence 3 nights (2 + 1) - Tuscany countryside 2 nights - Umbria countryside 2 nights - Daily breakfast - Return private transfer Florence airport – hotel in Florence - Visits with private guides: - HD Florence walking tour (3 hours=2 hours walking tour, 1 hour Uffizi Gallery) - HD Siena walking tour (3 hours) - HD San Gimignano walking tour (2 hours) - HD Orvieto walking tour (2 hours) - HD Assisi walking tour (3 hours) - Admission fees to museums/monuments: - Uffizi Gallery - Duomo of Siena - Cathedral of Orvieto

Stroll through the tiny streets leading to the top of the village and perhaps stop in one of the many cafes to try to local Vernaccia wine. Dinner on own. Return to the hotel and overnight in Chianti area.

Day 5) Orvieto, Todi Morning guided visit to Orvieto, situated on top of a rock offering the most splendid of views. Meet your private guide and start the tour of the city, including the Duomo Gothic Cathedral. Stop in the Antico Buttero and visit the traditional underground wine cellar dug in the tuff rock where for centuries it has produced and stored the wine Orvieto. Technical wine tasting with local products and light lunch consisting of a tasting of Umbrian wines accompanied by local fare. We suggest before heading off there will be a short visit to the Adriano pastry shop to try Orvieto’s typical cakes and desserts, including chocolates made with chilies and saffron. We suggest an afternoon visit to Todi, a splendid medieval town, where it is pleasant to wander around and discover the old monuments and craft shops. Dinner on own. Return to the hotel.

Overnight in Umbria countryside.

Day 6) Montefalco, Bevagna, Assisi Departure to Montefalco, a splendid town situated on top of a hill, offering

- Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi - Cooking class, tastings with light lunches: - Cooking class in Florence with light lunch (Day 2)

- Wine tasting in Radda in Chianti area (Day 3) - Light lunch and tasting in San Gimignano (Day 4)

- Wine tasting and light lunch in Orvieto (Day 5)

- Oil tasting in Montefalco (Day 6) - Car hire 5 days - Pick up and drop off Florence downtown (category Compact Volvo V40 or similar with automatic transmission), unlimited mileage, Third Party Liability, CDW (to be reconfirmed at the moment of booking) road tax, 16% airport charges, VAT 22% - VAT THE RATES DO NOT INCLUDE: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

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spectacular views over the hills. Visit the ancient olive groves - 3,000 plants belonging to the Azienda Romanelli family, to discover the many plant varieties and the extra virgin olive oil production techniques, along with a tasting. On the road to Assisi, we suggest you a stop in Bevagna, an ancient medieval town that has held on to its characteristics. Arriving in Assisi, and meet your guide for a private visit of the town, including the Basilica of St Francis. Dinner on own. Overnight in Umbria countryside.

Day 7) Florence After breakfast check out and departure to Florence. Arrival in the renaissance City, drop off the car downtown. Balance of the day at leisure. We suggest walking through the historical centre of this amazing city. Break at one of Florence’s oldest ice cream parlours, “Perché No”, that offers more than 33 different flavours and a precise selection of raw materials (including pistachios from Bronte, a Slow Food Presidium Product, saffron and cardamom). We suggest having lunch in one of the many typical Tuscan restaurants. Dinner on own. Overnight stay in Florence.

Day 8) Departure After breakfast, checkout and private transfer to Florence airport for your return flight.

PACKAGE’S NOTES: If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

Gratuities, personal extras, drinks, admissions or meals are not included unless mentioned in the inclusions section.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

- Children policy: 0-2 years old - Cancellation policy: no fees within 20 days notice. For later cancellation and the Noshows, will be charged the total cost of package.

- Accommodation taxes are not included and are to be paid locally by the customers - VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 41

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF PIEDMONT SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour)

POLLENZO, LA MORRA, CARMAGNOLA, BARBARESCO, CHERASCO, MONFORTE D’ALBA, ASTI, NIZZA MONFERRATO, GRINZANE CAVOUR

5 nights | 6 days

TOUR FEATURES A tour to discover the rich wine and food traditions and historical heritage of the Piedmont region, an unforgettable experience involving all the senses. Pleasurable days spent among rolling hills covered with vineyards, elegant palaces dating back to the former Italian Kingdom, ancient cellars, tiny streets and traditional fresh produce markets, imposing castles and antique shops, savouring some of the best foods and excellent wines that Italy has to offer.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia

Turin Alba

products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction” - and other local delicacies from Slow Food recommended quality producers, such as: - the wines of the Barolo vineyards - the wines of the Barbaresco hills

HIGHLIGHTS The Barolo wine has been called the "king of wines" but also the "wine of kings." It is one of the world's best wines and is made from only the very best Nebbiolo grapes, grown near the town of Alba. It is a robust red, fullbodied and very dry. The aroma is similar to ripe strawberries, tar, roses,

violets and truffles. Barolo can be "hard" when young and it needs to be aged in order to become "mellow." In fact, Barolo is not Barolo until it has aged for at least 3 years, while Barolo "Riserva" must age at least 5 years. It becomes better with additional aging and is often left to age for between ten and twenty years after the vintage year.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes.

WINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, farms, fresh produce markets and more.

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - the wonderful hills surrounded by the Barolo vineyards in La Morra - Asti, rich in medieval palaces and merchants houses, many with monumental towers - Grinzane Cavour, thus named in honour of Camillo Benso, Conte di Cavour, one of the leading figures of the Risorgimento (the Italian unification), and its imposing castle.

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 5 nights 3* charming hotels and/or historical residences - Daily Buffet Breakfast - 2 meals based on traditional regional dishes:

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Pollenzo (Bra) Arrival to the Albergo Corte Albertina hotel in Pollenzo, near Bra. Time to settle in. Dinner in the hotel restaurant that will be dedicated to the products of the Slow Food Presidia of Piedmont. Overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) La Morra, Carmagnola Morning departure for a tour of the wonderful Barolo vineyards. We suggest a first stop at the La Morra scenic viewpoint, where you can admire the hills and surrounding vineyards. Visit an historic wine cellar and taste their extraordinary wines accompanied by some of the typical local produce of Langa. Departure for Carmagnola and visit a cheese producer, learn something about the cheese-making process and have a tasting. Overnight stay. (BB, T, T)

Day 3) Barbaresco, Cherasco, Monforte d’Alba Morning departure for Barbaresco to visit the typical cellars, which boast several top class historical vineyards and a range of quality wines. Introduction and tasting of a selection of Barbaresco wines. We suggest: departure to Cherasco to visit the old historical centre, free time to wander around the little streets which house the traditional workshops which produce

- 1 Slow Food welcome dinner at the hotel - 1 lunch at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurant - 7 guided tastings of Piedmont’s Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Options on request: - Supplement for 4* hotel - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental

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the delightful ‘Baci di Cherasco’ (dark chocolates with hazelnuts). Afternoon transfer to Monforte d’Alba to visit wine cellars; introduction and tasting of his exclusive wines accompanied by local products. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, T)

Day 4) Nizza Monferrato, Asti Morning departure for Nizza Monferrato.

Located deep in the heart of the Monferrato, Nizza Monferrato is “a working man's town”. The vineyards literally come to the edge of the city. We suggest to visit the city. Lunch at typical “Trattoria”. In the afternoon departure for Asti. Stop at “Torronificio” for a tasting of the typical chocolate sweets and nougats. We suggest: visit the city of Asti, which is the provincial capital of one of most important wine areas in Italy and lends its name to some illustrious wines. Back to your hotel and overnight stay. (BB, L, T)

Day 5) Pollenzo, Grinzane Cavour Morning in Pollenzo, stroll through the centre, a visit of the Wine Bank for a tasting. Afternoon departure to Grinzane Cavour to visit and taste some of the Piedmont DOC and DOCG wines, especially those from Langa and Roero.

Overnight stay. (BB, T, T)

Day 6) Departure Departure. (BB)

- Private car with driver - Pre/post tour Note: - If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 43

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF VENETO AND LAKE GARDA

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) MIRA, VENICE, PADUA, VERONA, PESCHIERA DEL GARDA, BARDOLINO, LAKE GARDA, DOLOMITI BELLUNESI, MAROSTICA, BASSANO DEL GRAPPA

Verona Padua

Venice

6 nights | 7 days TOUR FEATURES The tour will cover the heartland of the former Venetian Republic, a region that has one of the country's richest historical, natural, artistic, cultural, and culinary heritages. Veneto offers a wealth of sights and flavours to be treasured for a lifetime: gondolas that glide along canals, imposing Roman amphitheatres, majestic mountain ranges, ancient cathedrals but also lots of characteristic shops, delicious foods and excellent wines.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia products - high-quality, traditional foods

and beverages at risk of “extinction” - and other local delicacies from recommended quality producers, such as: - the extra virgin olive oil of the Garda Veronese - the wines of the Veronese vineyards - the grappa and other spirits of Bassano del Grappa HIGHLIGHTS The Grumolo delle Abbadesse rice was introduced to the area by Benedictine nuns and have been grown there since the 16th century. The nuns also organized the reclamation of local marshland and the building of canals, many of which are still in use. This rice variety has tiny kernels, and its exceptional quality can be at-

tributed to the area’s soil and water. It swells up considerably when cooked, and is very good at absorbing flavours.

The St. Erasmo violet artichoke is tender, meaty, elongated and thorny with purple bracts. Growers transport their crop to the Rialto and Tronchetto markets using boats called “caorline”. Consumed raw, the “castraure” (the first buds) are a real delicacy. They can also be dipped in

batter and fried, or cooked in butter and served cold with lemon, often accompanied by “schie”, tiny lagoon shrimp.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes.

WINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, farms, fresh produce markets and more.

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - Padua, home of St. Anthony’s church, the medieval Regional Palace and Giotto’s wonderful Scrovegni chapel - Venice, with its amazing canals full of traditional Gondolas, St. Mark square and the Basilica, the Doges Palace, the

Rialto Bridge - Verona, with the imposing Roman amphitheatre (the Arena), the Basilicas of San Zeno and San Fermo, the Scaligeri graves, and of course Juliet’s famous balcony - Lake Garda, is the largest lake in Italy.

It is located in Northern Italy, about halfway between Brescia and Verona, and between Venice and Milan. Glaciers formed this alpine region at the end of the last ice age.

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Treviso area Arrival to your hotel. Time to settle in and then enjoy a traditional dinner with some excellent regional produce. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Venice Morning departure to Venice and free time to explore the city: St Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doges Palace and Rialto Bridge. In the afternoon, appointment with the guide in Calle Tron 1130 (San Marco). This tour will take you to the exclusive Venetian Ateliers and learn how the most famous traditional products are created. Far from the beaten tracks, you will discover and make tours the “pearls” of Venice's top handcraft tradition: velvets, brocades, marbleized paper, books

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and leather bindings, Papier-mâché Carnival masks, gold and silver jewellery, beads and other wonders (duration: 2 hours approx.). Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB)

Day 3) Dolomiti Bellunesi, Marostica, Bassano Del Grappa Departure for the hills of the Belluno Dolomites to arrive at Bassano del Grappa, at the base of Mount Grappa, where the River Brenta flows into the Po. Stroll across the Alpine bridge built by Palladio in the 16th century. Lunch will be served at typical Trattoria, which will consist of a simple menu made up of the local seasonal produce. This will be followed by a very interesting tour of the Grappa Museum in the historical Grapperia where it will be possible to taste some grappa and other spirits. Free time. We suggest: visit the delightful city of Marostica, the city of Chess, walk around the old town centre and stop at the “La Casa Del Parmigiano” grocery store that sells over 200 different types of cheese, olive oils, wines and top quality cold cuts. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, L, T)

Day 4) Padua, Verona Departure for Padua for a free visit. After Padua, we suggest visit Verona: Visit the market held in the Piazza delle Erbe e della Frutta where the season’s fresh pro-

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 45

duce are sold. Proceed to Verona to visit to the old centre: the Arena amphitheatre, the Ponte di Pietra (“stone bridge”), the Arco di Gavie arch and the Basilicas of San Zeno and San Fermo. Also, see the Scaligeri graves, Castel Vecchio and Juliet’s famous balcony. Near San Zeno, have a stop at the Pasticceria Zeno Gelati e Cioccolato for an ice cream (with some unique flavours like the Valpolicella Marasche or the cream of Recioto wine) and their chocolate pralines which are made using Slow Food Presidia produce.

Arrive at your new hotel, dinner and overnight. (BB, D)

oil. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon visit, winery in Peschiera del Garda for a tasting of wine produced on the Lugana terrains. Sergio Zenato founded it in 1960, motivated by his passion for wine and by the devotion to quality, he had learned from his father Silvino. This family wine business is founded on the values of the human factor, of time, and of tradition, each and all of these linked indissolubly with Lugana DOC, areas full with history.

We suggest after the tasting, visit Peschiera del Garda and walk along the lake. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, T)

Day 5) Peschiera del Garda, Lake Garda

Day 6) Bardolino, Lake Garda

In the morning, visit oil mill of the Boutique Farm and taste the extra virgin olive

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting NET PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 6 nights in 4* charming hotels and/or historical residences - Daily Breakfast Buffet - 4 meals based on traditional regional dishes, including a selection of regional

grapes gathered from their Bardolino estate vineyards. Visit the winery and taste the wine in the cellar. Traditional lunch in a typical local restaurant. Free time to visit Bardolino. We suggest: make a nice boat trip on Lake Garda, departing every day from Bardolino. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, L)

Day 7) Departure Departure. (BB)

In the morning, departure to Bardolino to visit traditional cellar that produce quality red, white and sparkling wines, with

wines: - 1 Slow Food welcome dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 2 lunches and 1 dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 4 guided tastings of Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products from the Veneto region - 1 guided tour (2 h) of Venice - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

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Options on request: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tour Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years old: free (sharing bed with parents) – Cot: 10,00 per day to be paid on the spot 3 - 12 years old: 10% discount

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 46

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF TUSCANY SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour)

FLORENCE, SIENA, SAN GIMIGNANO, PANZANO IN CHIANTI, GREVE IN CHIANTI, MONTEPULCIANO, PIENZA, MONTALCINO

6 nights | 7 days

Florence Siena

TOUR FEATURES A tour to explore a region of sprawling vineyards, rolling hills, charming old cities, masterpieces of art and gourmandise: visit the magnificent Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance”, Siena, famous for the Palio horse race, the Chianti area, Montepulciano and Montalcino, known all over the world for their prestigious wines, San Gimignano with its tall towers; visit wineries and cellars, sample excellent wines, rare cold cuts, Pecorino cheese and olive oil, shop for delicacies in the many food shops.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia

products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction” - and other local delicacies from Slow Food recommended quality producers, such as: - the Certaldo onion - the Pienza Pecorino cheese - the wine of Nobile di Montepulciano, Brunello and Bolgheri vineyards - the Florence’s oldest ice cream parlours, “Perché no!”, HIGHLIGHTS The Certaldo Onion. Giovanni Boccaccio has already written about it in his sixth book of the Decameron. The onion was inserted into the town seal of Certaldo. The seal, formed by two shields, white and red, with the onion enthroned on the white part, bears the motto "By nature I

am strong and sweet, and still like I those who stay and those who work." The Certaldo Onion, therefore, can be considered a cornerstone in the identity of the town; symbol and flag of a rural civilization with ancient traditions.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among

those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes.

WINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, fresh produce markets and more, such as: - the Nobile di Montepulciano and other wines of the Montepulciano vineyards; - the Brunello and other wines of the Montalcino vineyards; - the aromatic herbs of the Chianti area.

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - Florence, the cradle of the Italian Renaissance, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge - Siena, where the famous Palio race is run in the ancient Piazza del Palio square - San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its wonderful medieval towers and the San Gimignano 1300 Museum - the Chianti area, with its wonderful hills and vineyards, where some of the best Italian wines are produced - Montepulciano, one of the most characteristic and intact medieval cities in Italy - Pienza, the perfect example of a renaissance city, famous for its Pecorino cheese - Montalcino, a beautiful art city which is famous for its Brunello, one of the best red wines in the world

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Rignano sull’Arno

(Florence)

Arrival to the hotel Villa Il Palagio, near Florence. Time to settle in, welcome dinner and overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Florence Morning departure for Florence. Private guided tour of Florence. Walk through the historical centre of this amazing city and visit the Santa Croce church (outside), known as the "Pantheon of Italian Glories" where many illustrious Italians such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini and Machiavelli are buried. The visit also takes in the other religious buildings (the Baptistery, the Duomo and Giotto’s bell tower - outside) and the houses of power in the old city (the Piazza della Signoria). Lunch at typical restaurant. Free afternoon to stroll along Florence elegant streets. We suggest a break at one of Florence’s oldest ice cream parlours, “Perché no!” that offers more than 33 different flavours and a precise selection of raw materials (including pistachios from Bronte, a Slow Food Presidium product, saffron and cardamom).

Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, L) Day 3) Siena, San Gimignano Morning: we suggest to visit Siena, one of the most important and most beautiful architecture in the city, including the Museum delle Contrade (each horse in the famous ”Palio”, runs for a different Contrada or district). We suggest to sample of some delicious traditional desserts like the Panforte in one of the most famous pastry shops in town. Free time for shopping. On the way to San Gimignano along the ancient Via Francigena, lunch with some of the traditional local produce such as the Certaldo onion (Slow Food Presidium), and the organic extra virgin olive oil from San Gimignano in a little family-run farmhouse. Visit and have a talk on the techniques used in producing organic olive oil. We suggest, in the afternoon, to visit the famous towers and the San Gimignano 1300 Museum: storyboards, multi-media exhibits, street scenes and a ceramic recreation of the city as it was

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back in 1300. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, LL)

Day 4) Radda in Chianti, Greve in Chianti Entire day dedicated to discovering the Chianti hills along the Via Chiantigena (an ancient road connecting Siena with Florence crossing over the Chianti hills). Visit a winery in Radda in Chianti where you will meet the wine producer and visit to the cellars, at the end enjoy a wine tasting. Proceed to Greve in Chianti where we suggest visiting the little historical town centre. Stopping at the historical butchers “Falorni” where since the 1729 they produce the specialties of the local [norcineria], the Prosciutto Saporito (Cured Ham) di Greve and all the cured products also in the various versions of pork from the Surrounding Senese hills as well as the wild boar, from the well known Finocchiona to the Noble Salamis in Chianti, prepared with the noble parts of the pork, to the Salami to the Classical Chianti. Specialty: ‘Bistecca alla Fiorentina’ Tbone Florentine Steak, Italian veal. We suggest you to have a little tasting of salami. We also suggest lunch at Trattoria Mangiando Mangiando. In the afternoon visit winery in Greve in Chianti for a wine and oil tasting. Return to the hotel and overnight. (BB, T, T)

Day 5) Montepulciano, Pienza Morning departure for Montepulciano, one of the most characteristic and intact medieval cities in Italy which from a height of 605 metres above sea level offers amazing views over the surrounding hillsides. Visit typical winery for a free tasting, and then explore the wonderful town centre of Montepulciano. For lunch, we suggest the old Osteria dell’Acquacheta, with its rustic and familial atmosphere. Here, you may sample some of Tuscany’s best recipes (such as the Pici all’Aglione). In the afternoon, proceed to Pienza, the perfect example of a renaissance city, famous for its Pecorino cheese. Visit a Pecorino cheese producer, learn something about the cheese-making process, and sample the fare. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T)

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 48

Day 6) Montalcino Morning departure for Montalcino, famous for its Brunello, one of the best red wines in the world. Montalcino, however, is also a beautiful art city, which dominates 3,000 hectares of vineyards (1,500 for Brunello alone). We suggest a visit to

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 6 nights 4* charming hotels and/or historical residences - Daily Buffet Breakfast - 4 meals based on traditional regional dishes: - 1 Slow Food welcome dinner at the hotel - 1 lunch at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants

the Mastio della Rocca which is home to the Enoteca La Fortezza where it will be possible to buy some local products and the exceptional honey, a local specialty Free time. Return to Florence area and join a cooking class dedicated to the Tuscany tradition, followed by dinner. Return

to the hotel. Overnight stay. (BB, C, D)

- 1 light lunch - 1 dinner after the cooking lesson - 3 guided tastings of foods and/or wines from the Tuscany region - 1 cooking lesson - 1 half-day private guided tour of Firenze - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips, monuments and museum entrances and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Note: - If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

Options on request: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tour

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Day 7) Departure Departure. (BB)

Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years: free (sharing bed with parents) 3 - 12 years: 10% discount

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 49

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF UMBRIA

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) SAN MARTINO IN CAMPO, ORVIETO, TODI, ASSISI, BEVAGNA, MONTEFALCO, TORGIANO, PERUGIA, LAKE TRASIMENO, CASTIGLIONE DEL LAGO

Perugia Assisi

5 nights | 6 days

TOUR FEATURES A tour to discover Umbria, the so-called “Green Heart of Italy”, a region not only with a lush nature but also full of ancient towns with cobblestone streets, stunning cathedrals and old fortresses, a place rich of tasty foods and good wines; starting point of the tour is Orvieto - whose cathedral is a gothic masterpiece - and Todi, then it follows the tracks of St. Francis in Assisi, moves to Perugia with its Etruscan walls, 16th century palaces and chocolate factories, touches the shores of the Trasimeno Lake, and much more.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction” and other local delicacies from Slow Food recommended quality producers, such as: - the baby Pecorino cheese - the extra virgin olive oil of the Montefalco area - the extra virgin olive oil of the Spoleto area

HIGHLIGHTS The Lake Trasimeno Bean is tiny, about the size of a grain of rice. Soft, buttery and flavourful, the dried beans are eaten boiled and seasoned with a little extra-virgin olive oil. The fresh beans (cornetti) are sautéed with tomatoes and garlic. Cultivated on the terraces around Lake Trasimeno, they were popular until the 1950s, but have nearly disappeared since then.

The Sagrantino di Montefalco wine is named after the grape from which it is made. Cultivated for centuries on the hills of Umbria, Sagrantino is considered autochthonous, although there are various theories as to its origin. Some believe it to have come from Spain, others say it was imported by the first Franciscan friars, and others claim that it was brought into Italy by the Saracens. The Sagrantino may not be made available for consumption before having been aged at least 30 months, of which at least 12 months in wooden casks.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes: - Trattoria l’Acquario - Osteria La Lumera WINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, farms, fresh produce markets and more, such as:

- the famous Sagrantino wine - the Baci and other chocolate pralines at the Perugina Chocolate Museum - the typical traditional cakes and pastries of Perugia and Orvieto POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - Orvieto, situated on top of a rock offering the most splendid of views, with the wonderful the Gothic Cathedral - Todi, yet another splendid medieval little town full of ancient buildings and tiny streets - Assisi, a spiritual place home of the Basilica of St. Francis - Perugia, perched on a hill, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ancient towns in Italy - Lake Trasimeno, one of Italy’s largest lakes and the characteristic towns and villages around it, such as Magione and Castiglione del Lago

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ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, San Martino in Campo (Perugia) Arrive at the hotel Posta dei Donini in San Martino in Campo, near Perugia. Time to settle in and Welcome dinner in hotel with traditional products from Umbria. Overnight. (D)

Day 2) Orvieto, Todi Morning visit to Orvieto, situated on top of a rock offering the most splendid of views. We suggest a tour of the city, including the Duomo Gothic Cathedral.

Stop in the Antico Bucchero and visit the traditional underground wine cellar dug in the tuff rock where for centuries it has produced and stored the wine Orvieto.

Technical wine tasting with local products and light lunch consisting of a tasting of Umbrian wines accompanied by local fare. Before heading off we suggest a short visit to the Adriano pastry shop to try Orvieto’s typical cakes and desserts, including chocolates made with chillies and saffron. We suggest an afternoon visit to Todi, a splendid medieval town, where it is pleasant to wander around and discover the old monuments and craft shops. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, LL)

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 51

Day 3) Montefalco, Assisi, Bevagna, Departure to Montefalco, a splendid town situated on top of a hill, offering spectacular views over the hills. Visit the ancient olive groves - 3,000 plants - belonging to the Azienda Romanelli family, to discover the many plant varieties and the extra virgin olive oil production techniques, along with a tasting. On the road to Assisi, we suggest you a stop in Bevagna, an ancient medieval town that has held on to its characteristics. Arriving in Assisi, we suggest you a visit of the town, including the Basilica of St Francis. Proceed to Caseificio Broccatelli for a cheese tasting. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, T)

garotti, sample their extra virgin olive oil, and visit the MOO – Olive and Oil Museum.

We suggest transfer to Perugia; perched on a hill, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. A visit to the Perugina chocolate museum, famous for its Baci Perugina chocolates. Free time to discover the old city. Stop off at the historical Pasticceria Sandri pastry shop. Dinner with the dishes of the traditional Umbrian cuisine at the Osteria I Birbi. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, D)

Day 5) Lake Trasimeno, Castiglione del Lago

Arrival in Torgiano to visit the Azienda Lun-

We suggest entire day given to discover Lake Trasimeno, one of the largest in Italy, to visit some of the characteristic towns around the lake. Visit the

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson

- 2 dinners at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 light lunch in Orvieto area - 4 guided tastings of Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products from the Umbria region - VAT

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request

The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

The rates include: - 5 nights 4* charming hotels and/or historical residences - Daily Buffet Breakfast - 4 meals based on traditional regional dishes: - 1 welcome dinner in hotel

Options: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tour

Day 4) Torgiano, Perugia

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Azienda Madrevite. Visit the cellars and take a pleasurable stroll across the vineyards, then sample olive oil and typical products. Time to discover Castiglione del Lago, followed by dinner at the Trattoria l’Acquario, where traditional dishes, including the Fagiolina del Lago (Slow Food Presidium) will be served. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. . (BB, T, D)

Day 6) Departure Departure. (BB)

Note: - If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years old: free (sharing bed with parents) 3 - 12 years old: 10% discount

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 52

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF LAZIO SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) ROME, THE CASTELLI ROMANI AREA, FRASCATI, CASTEL GANDOLFO, THE LAGO DI ALBANO, GENZANO, FARFA, CASTELNUOVO DI FARFA, RIETI.

5 nights | 6 days Rome

TOUR FEATURES The beauty of the Lazio region is often obscured by the fame of Rome but the region has a lot to offer besides the Eternal City: a wealth of art, history, culinary traditions and culture that this tour will help to disclose. Thus, Rome will be only the starting point before moving on to discover the Castelli Romani area, with Castelgandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, Farfa and Rieti. A tour to discover off-the-beaten-track places but also a time spent learning to prepare a true Roman meal, tasting local wines and lots of genuine, rare foods.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction” - and other local delicacies from recommended quality producers, such as: - the Caciofiore Romano cheese - the Susianella cold cut - the extra virgin olive oil of Sabina area HIGHLIGHTS The Caciofiore Romano cheese. In Roman times, the use of wild thistles in cheese

making was quite common; a few cheese makers are now reviving this tradition in the Roman countryside, where artichokes and thistles flourish, with the use of rennet derived from cultivated thistle flowers, making cheeses that recapture ancient flavours.

The Susianella, a traditional cured meat, dates back to Etruscan times. Made from pork heart, liver, pancreas, belly, jowl and other parts, the meat is ground and sea-

soned with salt, pepper, chilli, wild fennel and other spices. The pork casing is tied by hand, and the Susianella is then aged for a period from 20 days to six months.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes.

WINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, fresh produce markets and more, such as: - the white pizza bread of Genzano - the hand-made pastas of the of the Castelli Romani - the traditional cakes and the Cannellino wine of Frascati POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wine but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - Rome, with its wealth of amazing monuments dating back to the Roman Empire, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Arch of Constantine and the Circus Maximus, and the masterpieces of art such as the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Navona, to name a few - the Castelli Romani area, with Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, Genzano and Frascati with the splendid Villa Aldobrandini - the Sabina, a beautiful quiet area of Italy, just a stone's throw from the ancient city of Rome. Sabina's landscape is a tapestry of olive groves, vineyards and ancient hilltop villages, rich in medieval architecture and tradition.

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Rome Arrive to your hotel in Rome. Time to settle in, and then move to the typical restaurant for a welcome dinner of traditional local fare and Slow Food Presidia products from Lazio. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Rome Rome has more attractions than probably any other city in the world. There are no words to describe sites like the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, but we want you to come away from your visit to Rome having also experienced its rich culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and wonderful people. Our entertaining food & cultural walking tour take you off the beaten path to get a unique glimpse into daily life in this fascinating city. We will bring you to discover Rome from an unusual point of view feeling the atmosphere of a genuine local market, sneaking out of the usual commercial tourist itineraries, while getting the chance to learn and taste the real Roman cuisine with a cooking lesson. In the afternoon, free time for shopping. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, C, LL)

Day 3) Rome In the morning have a tasting of typical products from the Lazio region at the new Eataly store. The grandiose four-floor point of sale site covers an area of 17,000 square metres, 60 per cent of which dedicated to selling food, the rest to catering and education with 23 bars and restaurants, 40 food preparation demonstration areas and eight lecture halls. Free time in the afternoon. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T)

guided tour of farmhouse and taste extraordinary wines accompanied by some of the typical local produce. We suggest: to proceed to Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, on the shores of the Albano Lake; visit of the historical centre and free time to stroll along the lake shore.

Continue on to Frascati visit the magnificent old city centre and have a traditional dinner at typical restaurant, with local dishes and wines from Lazio and a tasting of some traditional delicacies. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, D)

Day 5) The Sabina area: Farfa Castelnuovo di Farfa - Rieti In the morning departure to the heart of Sabina (the wide region which goes from the Tiber bank towards the Sabine Mounts) in a territory rich of striking historical finds.

The landscape is rich of hills covered by olive groves, large oak woods and small medieval villages, castles, monasteries. We suggest: Visit the historical Abbey of Farfa, founded by the Benedictines during the 6th Century a.C,. It is a very fascinating place, full of peacefulness and simplicity, as simple as the Benedectine monks who live in its profound spiritual atmosphere. In 1928 the Abbey was declared national monument for its architectural and artistic beauty. Continue to Castelnuovo di Farfa for a visit of a local farm, taste their olive oil and have a light lunch with local products. In the afternoon, We suggest to proceed to Rieti, the ancient city of the Sabines, traditionally considered to be the geographical center of Italy and for this reason also known as "Umbiliculus Italiae" (Latin for “the navel of Italy”). Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, LL)

Day 6) Departure Departure. (BB)

Day 4) The Castelli Romani: Castel Gandolfo, the Albano Lake, Genzano, Frascati In the morning, visit the Castelli Romani area. Arrive to Genzano we suggest to visit the little town with a stop at the historical Sergio Bocchini’s bakery to sample the Pizza Bianca (white pizza bread). Take a

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 54

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 5 nights 4* hotels in Rome - Daily Breakfast Buffet - 4 meals based on traditional regional dishes: - 1 Slow Food welcome dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 light lunch after cooking lesson - 1 dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants

- 1 light lunch in the Sabina area after olive oil tasting - 3 guided tastings Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products from the Lazio region - 1 market tour + cooking lesson - VAT The rates do not include: - Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Options on request: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tour

www.agboutiquejourney.it - info@agboutiquejourney.it

Note: - If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years: free (sharing bed with parents) 3 - 12 years: 10% discount

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 55

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF CAMPANIA

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) SANT’AGATA DEI DUE GOLFI, CAPRI, NAPLES, POMPEII, GRAGNANO, SORRENTO, AMALFI, RAVELLO, SCALA, VIETRI SUL MARE, POSITANO Naples

5 nights | 6 days TOUR FEATURES Campania is a land rich in culture, music, history, architecture and archaeological sites. The tour will bring participants to the Island of Capri, the most picturesque and visited locations in Campania; Naples, with its castles and noble palaces, but also the city where the pizza in its modern aspect and taste was conceived; to Pompeii, the ancient Roman town buried in 79 AD by a massive eruption of Mount Vesuvius; to Sorrento, the lively seaside resort home to the famous Limoncello, along the celebrated Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site where there are a series of mountainside

Positano

towns that seem to tumble into the sea, and the wonderful Positano. Campania is also a land with a rich gastronomy that find its roots in the fresh local produce; the Romans knew the region as campania felix, which translates into English as "fertile countryside", and there is a real wealth of genuine, rich food to be discovered here.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction” - and

other local delicacies from Slow Food recommended quality producers, such as: - the original Limoncello of Amalfi - the cakes and other specialties of Amalfi - the San Marzano tomato - the typical preserves and jams of the “Two Gulfs” area HIGHLIGHTS The San Marzano Tomato, a very delicate variety that is difficult to grow and pro-

cess, develops an extraordinary fragrance when ripening, reminiscent of freshly cut grass and spices. The San Marzano tomato is inextricably linked to Neapolitan pizza, and is an ingredient in traditional Neapolitan ragù, a meat sauce that must simmer for at least five or six hours.

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: Naples, with the Dell’Ovo Castle, the Royal Palace, the Maschio Angioino and the Galleria Umberto Pompeii, the opulent Roman city which was buried beneath the rubble from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD The Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful places in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its amazing sea views Sorrento, the magnificent town where wonderful views of the bay hide behind every corner Amalfi, with the wonderful cathedral and the characteristic narrow streets full of shops Ravello, the magical town where some of the worlds most famous composers like

Verdi and Wagner composed their works Vietri sul mare, the picturesque town world renowned for its pottery and ceramics Positano, with its characteristic white washed houses and balconies draped with bougainvillea and the magnificent Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto)

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Sorrento area Arrival to your hotel. Time to settle in and then welcome dinner dedicated to the typical produce of the Campania region.

Overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Sorrento area, Positano In the morning experience a real pizza lesson. You will receive a hat and an apron, then together with our pizza chef you will learn to prepare the pizza dough with your hands, using creativity to top it, bake it and finally taste your masterpiece!

In the afternoon free time to discover Positano, with its wonderful white washed houses and balconies draped with bougainvillea that fall in a cascade of colour against the mountain rock: it is time to relax, wander around the shops and stroll down to the beach. Back to your hotel and overnight stay. (BB, C, L)

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Day 3) Capri Full day join in tour dedicated to explore the beautiful and romantic island of Capri. Explore the stunning island of Capri on a walking tour from one side of the island to the other.

Start at the port of Sorrento to meet your guide and board the boat to the island.

Once in Capri, travel by mini coach to Anacapri. Take a guided tour through its charming streets and enjoy some free time to explore the famous Villa San Michele. Next up, you will head to Capri town to discover it on foot. Relish in the opportunity to explore the island, literally from one end to the other, through its narrow and enchanting streets. Arrive at Augustus Gardens and enjoy a spectacular view of Gracie Fields' former home.

After the tour, enjoy two hours at your own leisure. Ones done, your guide will be waiting for you at the port to escort you to the boat back to Sorrento. Back to your hotel and overnight stay. (BB)

Day 4) Naples or Pompei, Gragnano In the morning, we suggest you to departure to Naples to discover the main attractions as Dell’Ovo Castle, the Royal Palace, the Maschio Angioino and the Galleria Umberto. Stroll around the streets of the famous Spaccanapoli part of town and some gourmand shopping.

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 57

Pop into the Scaturchio patisserie to sample some traditional Neapolitan desserts such as the Ministeriale cake. Alternatively, we suggest you to discover Pompeii, the opulent Roman city that was buried beneath the rubble from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. On the way back, stop in Gragnano for a guided visit at a local pasta factory. Making pasta in Gragnano is an ancient form of art that involves history, culture, patience, secrets and traditions. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB)

Day 5) The Amalfi Coast: Amalfi, Ravello, Scala, Vietri sul Mare Morning departure for what will undoubt-

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson The rates include: - 5 nights at charming hotel or historical residence - Daily Breakfast Buffet - 2 meals based on traditional regional dishes: - 1 welcome dinner - 1 lunch after pizza lesson - 2 guided tastings of Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products from the Campania region - 1 pizza lesson

edly be a memorable day spent in one of the most beautiful places in the world, the Amalfi Coast. The first stop will be in Amalfi itself. We suggest: visit the famous Cathedral and the Valle dei Mulini, where paper was produced in ancient times.

Visit antique pastry shop for a tasting of the local specialties. Free time for lunch followed by a visit to the Azienda Agricola Valle dei Mulini distillery to taste some Limoncello and discover the secrets involved in its preparation. We suggest: from here move on to the magical town of Ravello where some of the world’s most famous composers like Verdi and Wagner composed their works. Continue on to Scala, one of the oldest towns along the

Amalfi Coast, before arriving at the picturesque Vietri sul Mare, world renowned for its pottery and ceramics. Free time to stroll through the pottery shops and factories before heading back to the hotel.

Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

(BB, T, T)

- 1 full day regular excursion to Capri (entrance fees and lunch not included) - Entrance fees to: - the pasta factory in Gragnano - VAT

Notes: - If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

The rates do not include: - Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Options: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver Hotels: Hotel Punta Campanella 4*, Marina del Cantone – or similar

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Day 6) Departure Departure. (BB)

Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years old: free (sharing bed with parents) 3 - 12 years old: 10% discount

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 58

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF APULIA AND MATERA SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour)

ALBEROBELLO, GROTTE DI CASTELLANA, MARTINA FRANCA, CISTERNINO, OSTUNI, LECCE, MANDURIA, MATERA.

5 nights | 6 days TOUR FEATURES Experience a multitude of emotions in a region of overwhelming beauty, blessed by nature and full of history; enjoy the pleasant countryside and imposing castles, including noble palaces and ancient cathedrals, olive groves, old stone “Trulli” and white baroque buildings, stunning caves and historic Masserie farmhouses.

Apulia is also a land of flavours and fragrances where bakers, dairymen and farmers turn fruits into products that owe their rich flavours and fragrances to their simplicity, and a place with a world-famous winemaking tradition as well. Finally yet importantly, there is the stunning Matera, which is considered a WORLD HER-

Martina Franca Matera

Gallipoli

Lecce

ITAGE SITE by UNESCO since 1993 for the particular conformation of its buildings SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction” - and other local delicacies from recommended quality producers, such as: - the extra virgin olive oil of the Murgia olive groves - the traditional cheeses of the Murgia cheese-makers - the Capocollo cold cut of Martina Franca - the Primitivo wine of Manduria

HIGHLIGHTS The Caciocavallo Podolico cheese is made with the milk of the Podolica cow, a breed that yields very little milk and only in certain months. The production of Caciocavallo requires great skill and ability, but the results are excellent, particularly when the cheese is aged, usually from a few months to three years, and sometimes even up to eight or ten years.

The Martina Franca Capocollo, the name used in the south of Italy to refer to cured pig neck, is one of Apulia’s most highly regarded cold cuts. The local climate is not very suitable for curing, so a process developed whereby the meat is salted, soaked in herbed wine and then lightly smoked. The procedure preserves the pork and gives it an extremely rich flavour.

The Altamura Traditional Bread. The superb Altamura bread is baked in huge sombrero-shaped loaves made from remilled durum wheat semolina from the Alta Murgia in the province of Bari, mixed with a natural sourdough starter, warm water and sea salt.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes.

WINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, fresh produce markets and more, such as: - the Pucce Leccesi (bread with vegetables) of Lecce - the “Tarallucci” (crisp bread rings) POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - the amazing stalactites, stalagmites,

huge caverns and hidden pools of water of the Grotte di Castellana caves - Alberobello, with the Trulli traditional rural homes, a UNESCO World Heritage site - Ostuni, called “the white village”, with its wonderful old centre - Lecce, the splendid ancient town called “the Baroque Pearl” - Matera, known as the “City of Stones”, for a guided visit. This city is the most extraordinary and intact example of troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean Region. The oldest “Sassi” (ancient homes carved right in to the rock) are about 7000 years old.

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Martina Franca Arrival to the Hotel Masseria Chiancone, near Martina Franca. Time to settle in, and then transfer to Martina Franca to enjoy a welcome dinner at Ristorante La Tana, which will be dedicated to the Slow Food Presidia of Apulia. Return to your hotel and overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) The Murgia: Grotte di Castellana, Alberobello, Martina Franca We suggest: a visit to the wonderful Grotte di Castellana situated at a depth of 70 meters, along more than 1 mile of road.

Lunch in Alberobello. Here will be dedicated to the Murgia cuisine and the local produce and wines in a local “Trattoria”. After lunch, we suggest a walk around the Trulli to visit the little shops and laboratories selling homemade cheeses and Taralli and a visit to Martina Franca and an evening stroll around its beautiful historical town centre, stopping at the Partenope pastry shop in the Corso Italia to try their renowned delights. Return to your hotel and overnight stay. (BB, L)

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Day 3) The Murgia: Cisternino and Ostuni We suggest: departure for Cisternino, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Here visit the old town centre and stop at the little shops selling Capocollo before having lunch at typical restaurant where the delights of Capocollo and some other dishes and wines from the Puglia region will be served. We suggest: a visit to the white village of Ostuni and its old centre. Make a stop in Putignano, in a farmhouse to try some of their cheeses, including Caciocavallo, Cacio ricotta, mozzarella and Canestrato. Back to your hotel and overnight stay. (BB, L, T)

Day 4) Lecce, Manduria Morning departure to Lecce. Stroll around to discover the ancient town, called the Baroque Pearl. We suggest to try the breads, pizzas and the famous Pucce Leccesi (a traditional bread with olives, tomatoes and other vegetables).In the afternoon proceed to Manduria to visit the Wine Museum and taste the local wine called Primitivo accompanied with typical product.

Return to your hotel and overnight stay.

(BB, T)

Day 5) Matera Morning departure for Matera, known as the “City of Stones”, for a guided visit. This city is the most extraordinary and intact example of troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region. The oldest “Sassi” (ancient homes carved right into the rock) are about 7000 years old. Free time for lunch. After lunch, visit farmhouse and taste their extraordinary wines. Return to your hotel and overnight. (BB, T)

Day 6) Departure Departure. (BB)

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 60

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 5 nights 4* charming hotels and/or historical residences - Daily Breakfast Buffet - 3 meals based on traditional regional dishes: - 1 Slow Food welcome dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants

- 2 lunches at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 3 guided tastings of foods and/or wines from the Apulia region - 1 private guided half-day tour of Matera (2 hours) - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Options on request: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tour

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Note: If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years old: free (sharing bed with parents) – Cot: € 10,00 per day to be paid on the spot 3 - 12 years old: 10% discount

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 61

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE OF SICILY SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour)

PALERMO, ERICE, MARSALA, POLLINA, AGRIGENTO, RAGUSA, SIRACUSA, TAORMINA

7 nights | 8 days

Palermo Marsala

TOUR FEATURES Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean, is a melting pot of cultures, where Greek and Arab influences can be found in the architecture, in the ancient ruins from different civilizations and in the unique cuisine; a land where the earth spills fire from ancient volcanoes and the sun warms the emerald waters of the Mediterranean sea; a region of archaeological wonders, marvellous baroque towns and rich, ancient traditions. But Sicily is not only a place of extraordinary monuments, enchantingly beautiful

scenery and beautiful towns, it is also a land that offers an incredible variety of excellent vintages, ancient cellars and vineyards, typical dishes and traditional foods rediscovered in their original style.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction� - and other local delicacies from Slow Food recommended quality producers

Taormina

Modica

HIGHLIGHTS The Manna, a natural sweetener with a very low glucose and fructose content, is obtained from a bluish resinous substance extracted from the bark of ash trees in the Madonie Mountains. When exposed to the sun, this substance solidifies into manna. The collection technique

is very ancient, and has survived only in this small corner of the Mediterranean.

The purest is the manna eletta, which runs down in “stalactites” without touching the bark.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes.

WINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, fresh produce markets and more POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wines but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - Palermo, the majestic Sicilian regional capital, with its ancient theatres and public buildings, the characteristic streets and the Capo market

- Erice, a magnificent medieval city in a spectacular setting - Agrigento, with the amazing Valley of the Temples, testament to the ancient Greek civilization in Sicily - Ragusa Ibla, a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of its Sicilian style baroque architecture - Syracuse, one of the most important and strategic political centres in ancient Greece, with the archaeological park and the ancient heart of the old city – Ortigia Island - Taormina, the small town home of the oldest cinema festival in the world, with its elegant streets and wonderful views of the emerald sea.

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival Arrival to your hotel in Palermo. Time to settle in, and welcome dinner or in a typical local restaurant recommended by the hotel. Overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Marsala, Erice Departure for Marsala, the city renowned for its production of the wine of the same name. Visit winery in Rilievo (Trapani), for tasting the wines. For an experience that will change your concept of wine tourism.

Free time to stroll through the centre of

the old town. Lunch in a typical local restaurant. We suggest you to proceed to Erice, a magnificent medieval city in a spectacular setting. Walk through the streets of the center of the town and visit the Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, an old pastry shop that offers recipes from the Antico Convento. Try some of the typical local delights such as almond pastries filled with candied lemon, Cannoli, Zibbibo (local wine) and the famous “brutti ma buoni” (“ugly but tasty”) biscuits. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, L)

Day 3) Pollina, Palermo Morning departure for Pollina to visit farmhouse. Have a lunch. After lunch visit the farm and hear the extraordinary story of how the ancient pastries and desserts were prepared with the Manna (Slow Food Presidium), accompanied by some samples. Back to Palermo and free time to stroll around the streets in the centre of the city. We suggest you: to try the pastries at the Pasticceria Scimone, one of the oldest in the city that sells the famous cannoli, babà and lots more, and a visit to the Bottega dei Sapori and the Saperi della Legalità di Libera shop that sells the produce cultivated on lands confiscated from the Mafia, such as legumes, preserves and wines. Overnight stay. (BB, L, T)

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 63

Day 4) Agrigento, Syracuse Departure for Agrigento for visit of the old city. Lunch at the typical restaurant in the downtown. In the afternoon a guided tour of the amazing Valley of the Temples, testament to the ancient Greek civilization in Sicily. Departure for the hotel in Syracuse area and overnight stay. (BB, L)

Day 5) Ragusa, Noto, Syracuse We suggest: departure for Ragusa to visit the city built in a region that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its Sicilian style baroque architecture. The city is divided into two parts: the old city (called Ibla) and the new city. Proceed to Modica the the ancient capital of the county which once

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 7 nights 4* charming hotels and/or historical residences - Daily Breakfast Buffet - 4 meals based on traditional regional dishes: - 1 welcome dinner - 2 lunches and 1 dinners at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 4 guided tastings of Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products from the Sicily region

again is full of amazing examples of architecture that pay homage to the old Sicilian baroque style, where you will have a visit and tasting at the old pastry famous for chocolate. Departure for Syracuse and have a dinner – in the historical town centre of Ortigia – of some traditional dishes and local wines in a typical local restaurant. Overnight stay. (BB, T, D)

Day 6) Syracuse, Mount Etna, Taormina We suggest a tour of the city, one of the most important and strategic political centres in ancient Greece, visit the archaeological park and walk around the heart of the old city – Ortigia. Departure for Taormina, stopping on route to visit of

- 1 private guided tour (2 hours) of Valley of the Temples Archaeological Park, Agrigento - 1 private guided tour (2 hours) of Taormina - Entrance fee to: - the Valley of the Temples Archaeological Park, Agrigento - Greek theatre, Taormina - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

wineyard, where prestigious wines are produced, a real find in terms of wines from Etna. There will be a tasting accompanied by local produce. Spend the night in Taormina. (BB, T)

Day 7) Taormina In the morning, a guided tour to discover Taormina, the small medieval village called "the pearl of the Ionian Sea" and visit to the Roman - Greek theatre. Time at leisure for lunch, shopping and walk through the tiny streets. Overnight night stay. (BB))

Day 8) Departure Departure. (BB)

Note: - If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years old: free (sharing bed with parents) 3 - 12 years old: 10% discount

Options on request: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tours

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 64

SELF DRIVE EMILIA ROMAGNA

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) BOLOGNA, THE PARMENSE HILLS, TORRECHIARA AND POLESINE PARMENSE, MODENA

5 nights | 6 days

TOUR FEATURES A tour of the Emilia Romagna which has flourished since the middle ages with a thriving culture thanks to the region’s monasteries and the University of Bologna - the oldest in Europe. In the renaissance, it became the seat for refined Lordships such as the House of Este of Ferrara. Emilia Romagna is a treasuretrove to delightful towns of great artistic importance, Cathedrals and Ancient Castles, Renaissance Arcades and Galleries with masterpieces by Raphael and Guido Reni. It is also famous for many delicacies such as the “Prosciutto Crudo” ham, the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, the Culatello di Zibello, the Balsamic Vinegar of Modena and many other traditional delicacies.

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS: Participants will have the unique chance of sampling several Slow Food Presidia products - high-quality, traditional foods and beverages at risk of “extinction” – and other local delicacies from recommended quality producers, such as: - Parmigiano Reggiano cheese; - culatello di Zibello cold cut; - Salami and Coppa other typical coldcuts - Comacchio’s Marinated eel - Romagnola Mora salami - Modena traditional balsamic vinegar - Romagnola Piadina (unleavened flat bread) - Squacquerone and the Ricotta cheeses made from whole milk

Parma

Modena Bologna

- Colli di Parma Malvasia and other wines of the Torrechiara vineyards - Sangiovese di Romagna DOC Superiore wine - Wines of the Colli Piacentini vineyards HIGHLIGHTS The Zibello Culatello is one of Italy’s noblest cured meats, due to its long and delicate processing and the use of one of the most prized cuts of pork: the boned “nut” of the thigh. The Presidium brings together a handful of producers who are still making Culatello using strictly tradi-

tional methods, aging it for at least 18 months without refrigeration in natural environments like ancient cellars along the Po River near Parma.

The Modena traditional balsamic vinegar is hand-made from boiled grape must and then aged for a long period in wooden kegs. It has a long history and it is used in various ways in cooking. It must not be confused with other balsamic vinegars without the word «traditional» in their name.

The Comacchio Marinated Eel. The preparation consists of four stages: cutting, spitting, cooking, and packing. Cutting consists of beheading the eel and dividing it into pieces. Spitting consists of piercing whole eels or the so-called Morelli (segments) with an iron spit.

Cooking is the most important time of the process: controlling fire and spit influences the whole result. Packing includes weighing and pickling the cooked eel with vinegar and salt.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishesWINERIES AND MORE Tour participants will also have the opportunity to sample wines and/or local typical products at wineries, bakeries, pastry shops, farms, fresh produce markets and more.

Parma, with the vast Farnese Palace that houses an art gallery, the renaissance theatre, the splendid Romanesque cathedral and the octagonal baptistery Bologna, the city of 100 towers with its 34kms of arcades, the Piazza Maggiore and the Archiginnasio, the oldest university in Europe.

Modena, with the Piazza Grande and the Duomo, and Maranello, home of the Ferrari Museum and Galleria.

Ferrara, one of Italy’s most beautiful historical towns, former seat of the Este Dukedom, with the Castle, the Duomo cathedral and the Diamanti Palace Delta of the river Po Park, among the typical “Casoni” (fishing houses),the ponds crowded with herons and other aquatic birds and the old fishing boats Reggio Emilia, the old city centre that has an hexagonal form, the wonderful palaces from the 16th-17th centuries and St. Prospero Basilica Modena, with the Piazza Grande and the Duomo, and Maranello, home of the Ferrari Museum and Gallery Dozza and Forlimpopoli, with their historical Town Centres and the ancient castles Ravenna, The last capital of the western Roman Empire, with the world’s most glorious concentration of Early Christian and Byzantine mosaics Cervia, with the ancient saltworks, the Salt Museum and the Cathedral.

Day 3) Torrechiara Free morning followed by a walking guided tour of the wonderful Torrechiara Castle. In the afternoon stop at Cantina Il Poggio, situated in one of the most beautiful spots in the Parma hills. Tasting of four wines accompanied by local produce.

Overnight in Parma area. (BB, T)

Day 4) Polesine Parmense Arrive at the Castel Antica Corte Pallavicina in Polesine Parmense in “Verdi country”, in honor of Giuseppe Verdi who used to live here. Walk around the structure, visit the museum and taste the famous Culatello di Zibello. Some free time to relax. Overnight. (BB, T)

Day 5) Modena Departure to Bologna. Stop in route to learn about the secret and the production techniques of the Traditional Balamic Vinegar of Modena. We suggest you to stroll around Modena’s historical center. Proceed to Bologna and overnight.

(BB)

Day 6) Departure Breakfast and checkout. (BB)

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival Arrive at the hotel and check-in. Time to relax. Traditional dinner of local seasonal produce from Emilia-Romagna.

Overnight. (D)

Day 2) Bologna POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour one will not only discover delightful food and wines but the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region:

In the morning, we would suggest a gourmet stroll around Bologna's historical market, called “il Quadrilatero”, and some shopping under the arches of the Piazza Maggiore Arcade. Some timeto relax. An afternoon cookery lesson dedicated to traditional Bolognese cuisine, followed by dinner. Overnight. (BB, C, D)

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 66

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 5 nights 4* charming hotels and/or historical residences - Breakfast Buffet Daily - 2 meals based on traditional regional dishes:

- 1 Slow Food welcome dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 dinner after cooking lesson - 2 guided tastings Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products from the Emilia Romagna region - 1 cooking lesson - 1 guided visit at Castello di Torrechiara - 1 visit at producer of balsamic vinegar - VAT

Options on request: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tour Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years old: free (sharing bed with parents) 3 - 12 years old: 10% discount

The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 67

SELF DRIVE LAZIO AND CAMPANIA SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) ROME, THE CASTELLI ROMANI AREA, FRASCATI, SORRENTO, AMALFI COAST.

7 nights | 8 days

Roma

Naples

TOUR FEATURES The beauty of the Lazio region is often obscured by the fame of Rome but the region has a lot to offer besides the Eternal City: a wealth of art, history, culinary traditions and culture that this tour will help to disclose. Thus, Rome will be only the starting point before moving on to discover the Castelli Romani area, with Castelgandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, A tour to discover off-the-beatentrack places but also a time spent learning to prepare a true Roman meal,

tasting local wines and lots of genuine, rare foods.

Campania is a land rich in culture, music, history, architecture and archaeological sites. The tour will bring participants to the Island of Capri, the most picturesque and visited locations in Campania; Naples, with its castles and noble palaces, but also the city where the pizza in its modern aspect and taste was conceived; to Pompeii, the ancient Roman town buried in 79 AD by a massive erup-

tion of Mount Vesuvius; to Sorrento, the lively seaside resort home to the famous Limoncello, along the celebrated Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site where there are a series of mountainside towns that seem to tumble into the sea, and the wonderful Positano. Campania is also a land with a rich gastronomy that

find its roots in the fresh local produce; the Romans knew the region as campania felix, which translates into English as "fertile countryside", and there is a real wealth of genuine, rich food to be discovered here.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE Tour participants will taste the delicious, authentic dishes of the regional cuisine eating at restaurants selected among those recommended by Slow Food in the “Osterie d’Italia” guide, small “trattorie” that still use fresh, local produce and traditional recipes for their dishes.

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE During the tour, the participants will not only discover delightful food and wine but also the most interesting monuments, works of art, churches and natural landscapes of the region: - Rome, with its wealth of amazing monuments dating back to the Roman Empire, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Arch of Constantine and the Circus Maximus, and the masterpieces of art such as the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Navona, to name a few

- the Castelli Romani area, with Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, Genzano and Frascati with the splendid Villa Aldobrandini - Naples, with the Dell’Ovo Castle, the Royal Palace, the Maschio Angioino and the Galleria Umberto - Pompeii, the opulent Roman city which was buried beneath the rubble from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD - the Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful places in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its amazing sea views - Capri and Anacapri

from your visit to Rome having also experienced its rich culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and wonderful people. Our entertaining food & cultural walking tour take you off the beaten path to get a unique glimpse into daily life in this fascinating city. We will bring you to discover Rome from an unusual point of view feeling the atmosphere of a genuine local market, sneaking out of the usual commercial tourist itineraries, while getting the chance to learn and taste the real Roman cuisine with a cooking lesson. In the afternoon, free time for shopping. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, C, LL)

ITINERARY

Day 3) The Castelli Romani: Castel Gandolfo, the Albano Lake, Genzano, Frascati

Day 1) Arrival, Rome Arrive to your hotel in Rome. Time to settle in, and then move to the typical restaurant for a welcome dinner of traditional local fare and Slow Food Presidia products from Lazio. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Rome Rome has more attractions than probably any other city in the world. There are no words to describe sites like the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, but we want you to come away

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In the morning, visit the Castelli Romani area. Arrive to Genzano we suggest to visit the little town with a stop at the historical Sergio Bocchini’s bakery to sample the Pizza Bianca (white pizza bread). Take a guided tour of farmhouse and taste extraordinary wines accompanied by some of the typical local produce. We suggest: to proceed to Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, on the shores of the Albano Lake; visit of the historical center and free time to stroll along the lake shore. Continue on to Frascati visit the

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 69

magnificent old city center and have a traditional dinner at typical restaurant, with local dishes and wines from Lazio and a tasting of some traditional delicacies. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, T, D)

dens and enjoy a spectacular view of Gracie Fields' former home. After the tour, enjoy two hours at your own leisure. Ones done, your guide will be waiting for you at the port to escort you to the boat back to Sorrento. Back to your hotel and overnight stay. (BB)

Day 4) Sorrento area Arrival to your hotel. Time to settle in and then welcome dinner dedicated to the typical produce of the Campania region.

Overnight stay. (D)

Day 5) Capri Full day join in tour dedicated to explore the beautiful and romantic island of Capri. Explore the stunning island of Capri on a walking tour from one side of the island to the other.

Start at the port of Sorrento to meet your guide and board the boat to the island.

Once in Capri, travel by mini coach to Anacapri. Enjoy this tour through Capri charming streets and enjoy some free time to explore the famous Villa San Michele. Relish in the opportunity to explore the island, literally from one end to the other, through its narrow and enchanting streets. Arrive at Augustus Gar-

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting C=Cooking Lesson PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 4 nights 4* hotels in Rome ( 3 + 1 ) - 3 nights 4* hotels in Sorrento Area - Daily Breakfast Buffet - 1 Slow Food welcome dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurant in Rome - 1 wine tasting in The Castelli Romani - 1 market tour + cooking lesson and light lunch in Rome

Day 6) Naples or Pompei, Gragnano In the morning, we suggest you to departure to Naples to discover the main attractions as Dell’Ovo Castle, the Royal Palace, the Maschio Angioino and the Galleria Umberto. Stroll around the streets of the famous Spaccanapoli part of town and some gourmand shopping.

Pop into the Scaturchio patisserie to sample some traditional Neapolitan desserts such as the Ministeriale cake. Alternatively, we suggest you to discover Pompeii, the opulent Roman city that was buried beneath the rubble from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. On the way back, stop in Gragnano for a guided visit at a local pasta factory. Making pasta in Gragnano is an ancient form of art that involves history, culture, patience, secrets and traditions. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB)

- 1 welcome dinner in Sorrento - 2 visit and tasting in Amalfi - 1 visit of Gragnano Pasta factory - 1 regular tour of Capri and Anacapri - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Options on request: - Additional lunches/dinners - Car rental - Private car with driver - Pre/post tour

Day 7) The Amalfi Coast: Amalfi, Ravello, Scala, Vietri sul Mare Morning departure for what will undoubtedly be a memorable day spent in one of the most beautiful places in the world, the Amalfi Coast. The first stop will be in Amalfi itself. We suggest: visit the famous Cathedral and the Valle dei Mulini, where paper was produced in ancient times.

Visit antique pastry shop for a tasting of the local specialties. Free time for lunch followed by a visit to the Azienda Agricola Valle dei Mulini distillery to taste some Limoncello and discover the secrets involved in its preparation. After tasting Depart to Rome and overnight. (BB, T, T)

Day 8) Departure, Rome FCO Departure. (BB)

Notes: - If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

- Accommodation taxes are to be paid locally by the customers.

- VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government during the year and rates could be revised accordingly.

Young Traveller Discount 0 - 2 years: free (sharing bed with parents) 3 - 12 years: 10% discount

Hotel 4*, Rome – or similar

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 70

SELF DRIVE ABRUZZO: TRABOCCHI COAST TOUR

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) 4 nights | 5 days

L’Aquila

Vasto

Roma

POINT OF INTEREST ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Sextantio - L’Aquila The village is a slender medieval illumination across the stone. It was once a fief of the Medici family of Florence. On the front door of the south-east stands the emblem of the Signoria of Florence, on these mountains has left a speck – but precious – of its refined civilization: elegant arcades, the arched portals tiled with flower motifs, stone windows were finely crafted and decorated by skilled hands, the marvelous mullioned windows and the balconies.

Palazzo d’Avalos - Vasto The d’Avalos Palace towers above the Vasto seashore from the hill on which the village is perched. The old residence of the prestigious d’Avalos family is one of the most significant examples of Renaissance architecture in Abruzzo. The Palace was built on the remains of a 14th century building, of which several decorative details are kept. Once the Spanish family of Avalos they consolidated their domain, they wished transform their residence, endowed it with the magnificence of Iberian courts. The Neapolitan Garden is part of the palace and is reached through the entrance yard, opening out over the sea. After a recent

restoration, it regained its original layout.

Today as in the past, among the hedges of box bushes and roses, it is the reign of orange trees, and bushes of lavender, rosemary, sage, American creepers, jasmine, geraniums, bougainvillea and climbing roses. This green area is in the shape of a cross through which little perpendicular pathways run, covered by a bower, a model common too many Neapolitan gardens and cloisters of the Baroque age.

LOCAL PRODUCTS Santo Stefano di Sessanio Lentil (presidio slow food): these tiny, round, purplishbrown lentils, just a few millimeters in diameter, grow only on the slopes of the Gran Sasso. They are cultivated at altitudes over 1,000 meters above sea level, in the pristine environment of the national park. Due to their small size and permeability, Santo Stefano di Sessanio lentils do not require soaking before cooking.

They are extraordinarily flavorful, and the best way to enjoy them is in a simple soup.

Brodetto alla vastese: the fish soup from Vasto, is a dish born from the encounter between two communities, one of anglers and the other of farmers. “Lu vrudatte”, unlike other fish, does not require being fried. Ingredients are extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, parsley, green pepper and “mezzo tempo tomato”: indigenous Vastese tomatoes that you can find in summer season.

On fish, we will use a variety of at least seven, and usually include stingray, mullet, cuttlefish, goby big head, codfish, and mantis shrimp.

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine: Montepulciano, one of Italy's most popular red wine grapes, has thrived in Abruzzo since the middle of the 18th century. A plump grape, which gives good yields of easy-drinking wine, it is popular with producers and consumers alike. The variety typically provides deeply colored juice (which varies from ruby to purple depending on vintage and the particular winemaking techniques used) with low acidity and soft, unobtrusive tannins.

ITINERARY Day 1) Roma, Santo Stefano di Sessanio Arrival at Fiumicino Airport collect your luggage and your car and departure to Abruzzo region.

An experience not to be missed by anyone visiting Abruzzo has to be the amazing, renaissance village Santo Stefano di Sessanio, on the edge of the Campo Imperatore plain in the Gran Sasso National Park. This remarkable location is an architectural delight with its archways, cobbled streets, Medici square. The village of S. Stefano di Sessanio is built entirely of white limestone, whose whiteness was made opaque by the time. The roofs of the buildings made exclusively with clay tiles, providing a harmonious overall view to the observer from the tower Medici. The borough is considered one of the most beautiful Abruzzo for environmental values, for the architectural dignity and stylistic homogeneity. Overnight in Santo Stefano di Sessanio. (BB)

Day 2) Fossacesia, Vasto After your breakfast at the hotel, move to Abbey Saint John in Venus, near Fossacesia. Visit with your private guide, the Abbey of Saint John in Venus and the adjacent monastery. They are placed on a promontory with breath-taking views. They were originally built, in the VI century, on a pagan temple dedicated to Venus (Venere), the goddess of beauty. Beauty is exactly what comes to mind in this place.

Option: Lunch at Trattoria Da Ferri. Taste the Brodetto alla Vastese (fish soup from vasto The famous Trattoria Da Ferri is one of the best places to try the “brodetto alla vastese", the Abruzzo’s most famous fish soup. It is a dish inseparable from Vasto’s history. For centuries, local fishermen, having sold the best of their catch to those who could afford it, would come inland and exchange the less-sought-after fish for the farmers' tomatoes, mild and fierce peppers, and olive oil. Made and served in a wide dish called a “tijella”, it is robust, gutsy food that requires rolled-up sleeves, a fork, a spoon, your hands and masses of

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toasted bread to mop up the deeply flavoured broth. Near this place, you can see the lighthouse at Punta Penna, the second tallest lighthouse in Italy Next up, you will go to Vasto town. Relish in the opportunity to explore the ancient Borgo through its narrow and enchanting streets. Vasto is a treasure chest, surrounded by the walls of an enchanting old city center, which overlooks the Adriatic Sea. You can only be enchanted by visiting the old buildings among the romantic and fascinating Loggia Ambling, one of the most beautiful scenic walks of Abruzzo, which leads from Palazzo d’Avalos, historic residence of the marquis regent of the city and its Neapolitan-style gardens. During the tour is a short break at Forno Stanisci a historic town bakery operating since the 1890, where you will taste the pizza, made with stone-ground flour and other specialties include local traditional biscuits.

Overnight in Vasto, at Residenza Amblingh (or similar), eighteenth century mansion located within the scenic Loggia Amblingh, a wonderful promenade overlooking the sea, nestled among the narrow streets of the historic center. From the Residenza Amblingh you will see the Palazzo D’ Avalos with its Neapolitan gardens. On the horizon on a clear day you can see the Tremiti Islands and following the profile of the Gulf you can gaze down to Termoli and even more, to the promontory of Gargano. (BB, T)

Day 3) Vasto, Trabocchi area After breakfast, we suggest to visit the Natural Reserve of Punta Aderci, the most beautiful and interesting naturalistic stretch of coast of Abruzzo. It is among the most beautiful natural reserves in Italy: a succession of sandy and pebbly beaches, high cliffs and cliffs, agricultural landscapes and scrubland Mediterranean, green and blue shades of a

SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 72

stretch of the Adriatic from which it is easy to be amazed.

Lunch and fishing experience at Trabocco Tufano.

The Trabocco is an old fishing machine typical of the coast of Abruzzi, which consists of a platform anchored to the rock by large logs of Aleppo pine, jutting out into the sea, from where two (or more) long arms called antennae stretch out suspended some feet above the water and supporting a huge, narrow-meshed, net (called trabocchetto). Stunning lunching experience in an old fishing site right on the water, where you can have the best seafood experience ever. The local an-

glers teach you the secrets of Mediterranean and Abruzzo fishing with net.

Your pleasure will be complete when everyone gets together to eat dishes that are light, tasty and self-prepared in a wonderful environment halfway between sea and sky.

Afternoon tasting session at Fontefico Vineyards, visit of the cellars and tasting two Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wines varietal and Fontefico’s own organic extra virgin olive oil. Overnight in Vasto.

which, with its high bell tower over the entire historic center, is there CRETA ROSSA, manipulative teaching laboratory.

You will not only discover the beauty of local daily life but also be encouraged to participate in the ceramic making class.

You will try how to make a bowl, a vase and easy to bring it home an amazing souvenir. Lunch on own. Departure to Rome.

Arrival at your hotel, check-in and balance of the day free. Overnight in Rome. (BB)

Day 4) Vasto, Rome

Day 5) Roma Fiumicino

Breakfast at your hotel. Inside the walls of the ancient Vasto and in the shadow of the imposing church of Santa Maria Maggiore,

After breakfast, checkout and departure to Rome International Airport, drop off the car and take your return flight. (BB)

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch T=Tasting

- Entrance tickets to Palazzo Avalos in Vasto - Visits with private guides: - Abbey Saint John in Venus at Fossacesia (1 half day) - Tour of the historical centre of Vasto (1 half day, 3hours) - Ceramic class - Lunch and fishing at Trabocco Tufano - Pizza tasting at Forno Stanisci 1890 - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Terms & Conditions: - Children policy: 0-2 years old 100% reduction - Cancellation policy: no fees within 22 days notice. For later cancellation and the Noshows, will be charged the total cost of the package - Accommodation taxes are not included and are to be paid locally by the customers

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax) On request The rates include: - 4 nights’ accommodation in the selected category hotel: - Santo Stefano 1 night - Vasto 2 nights - Rome 1 night - Daily breakfast - Rent car for 5 days

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SLOW FOOD - SELF DRIVE TOURS 73

I T A LY B O U T I Q U E J O U R N E Y

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

SLOW FOOD SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN PIEDMONT: POLLENZO, ALBA, LA MORRA AND GRINZANE CAVOUR 4 days | 3 nights

Turin Asti

WHEN: YEARLY, ARRIVAL ON FRIDAYS NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): TURIN OR MILAN SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the wines of the Pollenzo Wine Bank; - the wines of the Barolo vineyards along with some typical products of Langa; - the Langa and Roero wines of the Piedmont Regional Enoteca winery; - the Grappe and other Piemontese traditional spirits.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROMTHE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - restaurant of the Slow Food “Albergo dell’Agenzia” - Osteria dell’Arco

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POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE The imposing castle of Grinzane Cavour, thus named in honour of Camillo Benso, Conte di Cavour, one of the leading figures of the Risorgimento (the Italian unification), and one of the most ancient and noteworthy castles of the Langhe area.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 76

ITINERARY Day 1) Friday - Arrival, Pollenzo Arrive and check-in to the Slow Food Albergo dell’Agenzia in Pollenzo, Bra (Cuneo), a splendid hotel complex created from the structure which also houses the University of Gastronomical Sciences. Time to relax.

Dinner in the hotel restaurant which will be dedicated to the products of Slow Food Presidia of Piedmont. Overnight stay. (D) Day 2) Saturday - Alba, Pollenzo Departure for Alba where the Earth Market is held every Saturday morning.

Stroll through the attractive square where it is possible to admire, taste and buy the specialties and local products typical of the Piedmont region, with particular attention to small producers, Presidia, vegetables and fruit. A unique opportunity to become immersed in a quality Piedmontese experience and a great introduction to the tour. Free time to visit the city. Afternoon back to Pollenzo, for an introduction to the Piedmont “Terroir” with a tasting of four wines from the Wine Bank. Overnight stay. (BB, T)

Day 3) Sunday - The Barolo vineyards, La Morra, Grinzane Cavour In the morning, visit the Silvio Grasso wine cellars, among the splendid Barolo vines for a taste of their extraordinary wines together with some typical local products from Langa.

Arrive at La Morra and free time for lunch and to enjoy the amazing views of the surrounding hills.

In the afternoon, visit the Piedmont Regional Winery, located inside the splendid Grinzane Cavour Castle. Taste some Piedmont DOC and DOCG wines, concentrating on the Langa and Roero wines. Free time. Overnight. (BB, T, T)

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax): On request The rates include: - 3 nights in hotel 4* - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 1 dinner at the restaurant of the Slow Food Hotel - 3 guided tastings of Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products and/or other selected foods from Piedmont - Entrance fees to the Grinzane Cavour castle - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically

Day 4) Departure Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

mentioned in “The rates include”.

Note:

BB=Buffet Breakfast

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries

L=Lunch

or other businesses becomes necessary for

LL= light lunch

any reason, the hotels or other businesses

D=Dinner

substituted will be equivalent of those

T=Tasting

shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 77

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE SALORNO, CAURIA

Trento

3 days | 2 nights

WHEN: FROM MARCH TO OCTOBER, EXCEPT IN SEPTEMBER NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): VERONA, VENICE OR MILAN TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Fichtenhof Restaurant

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Cauria. Located about 13 km from Salorno, the village of Cauria is surrounded by meadows and forests. The idyllic vil-

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lage, boasting a number of inhabitants of 50 only, is a perfect spot of land for those who seek a quiet little place to rest.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 78

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Cauria Arrive at the guest-huose on your own.

Check-in and free time to discover Cauria. The Gothic parish church dedicated to S. Margaret dating back to the 13th century, is the village centre, established around 1500. Also the small Visitation of Mary meadow church (Maria Visitazione), located a little distance outside, is worth a visit. A traditional dinner will be served at the guest-house restaurant “Fichtenhof”. Overnight stay. (D) Day 2) Salorno In the morning we suggest you to experience nature, far away from the traffic. Either in mountain bike or on foot, the Monte Corno nature park boasts several natural monuments that are worth visiting, such as the Lago Nero and Lago Bianco lakes. The European longdistance hiking trail E5 takes you to these monuments of nature and further on to the Corno di Trodena. In the afternoon, visit Haderburg’s vineyard and cellar.

Overlooking Salorno - and already a part of the village of Pochi - lies the Hausmannhof at an altitude of 400m (1300 feet). From here, you can look out over the vineyards and into the valley towards Salorno. In the mid-1970s, they made the daring transformation from being a fruit-growing farm concerned only with the production and sale of grapes and apples to a winery which processes its own grapes. Since that turning point, their enthusiasm for good wines and champagnes has set the tone for the work in the vineyards and in the wine cellar.

Back to the guest-house and overnight stay. (BB, T)

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax): On request The rates include: - 2 nights in hotel - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 1 dinner based on traditional regional dishes at the Fichtenhof restaurant - 1 guided tasting of Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products and/or other selected foods from Trentino Alto Adige - VAT The rates do not include: Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

Day 3) Departure Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

Note:

BB=Buffet Breakfast

or other businesses becomes necessary for

L=Lunch

any reason, the hotels or other businesses

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries

LL= light lunch

substituted will be equivalent of those

D=Dinner

shown.

T=Tasting

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 79

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS ON LAKE GARDA AREA PESCHIERA DEL GARDA AND VERONA

Verona

3 days | 2 nights

WHEN: YEARLY NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): VERONA, VENICE OR MILAN SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the wines, olive oil and Grappa of the Peschiera del Garda area TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Trattoria Pane e Vino

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a wonderful example of a city that developed without interruptions for more than 2,000 years, smoothly integrating buildings and palaces dating to different ages in the city’s structure.

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Lake Garda, is the largest lake in Italy. It is located in Northern Italy, about halfway between Brescia and Verona, and between Venice and Milan. Glaciers formed this alpine region at the end of the last ice age.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 80

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival Arrive at the hotel and check-in. Time to relax and stroll along the lakeside. A traditional dinner will be served in a typical local restaurant in Lazise.

Overnight stay. (D) Day 2) Peschiera del Garda, Verona In the morning, we suggest to visit Peschiera del Garda. Stop at the Azienda Zenato, owned by the Zenato family, for a tasting of wine, olive oil and grappa produced on the Lugana terrains. Sergio Zenato founded it in 1960, motivated by his passion for wine and by the devotion to quality he had learned from his father Silvino. This family wine business is founded on the values of the human factor, of time, and of tradition, each and all of these linked indissolubly with Valpoli-

cella and Lugana, areas full with history.

Departure for Verona with free time to stroll around the streets of the centre, do some “tasty” shopping or have a short tour of the Goti (traditional hostelries where a glass of wine can be enjoyed with local bread and lard, soppressa, or other typical local snacks). Otherwise, pay a visit to the historical Market in Piazza delle Erbe. Dinner will be based on traditional Veronese dishes at the Trattoria Pane e Vino in the historical town centre.

Overnight stay. (BB, T, D)

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax):

Day 3) Departure Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

The rates do not include:

On request The rates include: - 2 nights hotel 4* - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 2 dinners at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 guided tasting of Slow Food wines and/or Presidia products and/or other selected foods from the Lake Garda area - VAT

Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch

Note:

LL= light lunch D=Dinner

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries

T=Tasting

or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 81

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN VENETO: GRANCONA, BASSANO DEL GRAPPA, MAROSTICA

Vicenza

3 days | 2 nights

WHEN: YEARLY; ARRIVAL EVERY DAY EXCEPT ON TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAY NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): PADUA, VERONA OR VENICE SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the grappa and other spirits of Bassano del Grappa.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Trattoria Isetta - Trattoria del Borgo

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Bassano del Grappa. An enchanting medieval town on the River Brenta, Bassano takes its name from the nearby Monte Grappa. A short tour in Bassano del Grappa will lead you through the old characteristic streets of the centre, where you can appreciate the craft traditions of Bassano, like ceramics and jewellery masterpieces, the Alpini Bridge and the Grappa Museum.

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Grancona Arrive and check-in to the guest-house.

Free time to relax. A traditional Venetian dinner of seasonal produce will be served at Trattoria Isetta offering excellent cuisine in a warm and relaxed family environment. Overnight stay. (D) Day 2) Dolomiti Bellunesi, Marostica, Bassano Del Grappa Departure for the hills of the Belluno Dolomites to arrive at Bassano del Grappa, at the base of Mount Grappa, where the River Brenta flows into the Po. Stroll across the Alpine bridge built by Palladio in the 16th century. Lunch will be served at the Trattoria del Borgo, which will consist of a simple menu made up of the local seasonal produce. This will be

followed by a very interesting tour of the Grappa Museum in the historical Grapperia Poli where it will be possible to taste some grappa and other spirits. Free time.

We suggest: tovisit the delightful city of Marostica, the city of Chess, walk around the old town centre and stop at the “La Casa Del Parmigiano” grocery store that sells over 200 different types of cheese, olive oils, wines and top quality cold cuts.

Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

(BB, L, T)

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax):

Day 3) Departure Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

The rates do not include:

On request The rates include: - 2 nights in hotel - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 1 lunch & 1 dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 guided tasting of Slow Food wines at Azienda Il Filò delle Vigne a Baone - Vat

Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch

Note:

D=Dinner

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries

T=Tasting

or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 83

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN LIGURIA AMEGLIA, SARZANA, THE POETS’ GULF: PORTOVENERE, LERICI AND MT. CAPRIONE 3 days | 2 nights

La Spezia

WHEN: YEARLY EXCEPT IN JANUARY; NOT ARRIVAL ON SUNDAYS & WEDNESDAYS NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): LA SPEZIA OR GENOA SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the typical Ligurian fare, such as the “Panizza fritta” (a focaccia bread prepared with cheese).

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Trattoria dai Pironcelli

POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE The Poets Gulf and Portovenere, with its charming Genoese-style buildings, yet another Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 84

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Sarzana Arrival and check in to the hotel. Traditional Ligurian dinner at the Trattoria dai Pironcelli. Overnight stay. (D) Day 2) The Poets Gulf: Portovenere, Lerici, Monte Caprione Departure for Portovenere. Stroll around the wonderful historical centre of the village with its multicolored houses and medieval streets that evoke unique emotions and smells. Free time to visit the streets of the old centre and wander around the little craft shops or have a coffee or icecream at the Bar Lamia in the Calata Doria. Free time in the afternoon to visit the old town centre of Lerici with its

brightly colored houses and lively fishing village. Continue on to Monte Caprione and the La Rosa Canina country farmhouse, which is hidden in the thick Ligurian woods, to be welcomed by Marco among the giant bay trees. Visit the estate and taste some typical homemade Ligurian fare, such as the panizza fritta (a focaccia bread prepared with cheese from the dairy cooperative at Val di Vara).

Overnight stay. (BB, T)

T=Tasting NET PRICES PER person (min. 2 pax): On request The rates include: - 2 nights in hotel - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 1 dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 guided tasting of Slow Food typical Ligurian fare and wines - Vat

Day 3) Departure Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

The rates do not include:

BB=Buffet Breakfast

mentioned in “The rates include”.

Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically

L=Lunch LL= light lunch Note:

D=Dinner

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 85

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAK IN EMILIA ROMAGNA: THE PARMENSE HILLS, TORRECHIARA AND POLESINE PARMENSE

Parma Modena

4 days | 3 nights WHEN: YEARLY; DEPARTURES EVERY DAY EXCEPT ON SUNDAYS NOT DEPARTURES IN AUGUST NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): PARMA SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE

ITINERARY

AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES:

Day 1) Arrival

- the salami, the Coppa and other typical cold-

Arrive at the hotel and check-in. Time to relax.

cuts;

three wines accompanied by local produce.

Overnight stay.

Overnight stay. (BB, T)

- the Colli di Parma Malvasia and other wines of the Torrechiara vineyards;

Day 2) Torrechiara

- the Culatello di Zibello cold cut;

Free morning followed by a walking guided

Day 3) Polesine Parmense

- the wines of the Colli Piacentini vineyards.

tour of the wonderful Torrechiara Castle. In the

Arrive at the Antica Corte Pallavicina in Polesine

afternoon stop at the Lamoretti Winery, situ-

Parmense in “Verdi country”, in honour of

POINTS OF INTEREST:

ated in one of the most beautiful spots in the

Giuseppe Verdi who used to live here. Walk around

ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE

Parma hills. Here, the peace and quiet of the

the structure, visit the cellars and taste the famous

Parma, with the vast Farnese Palace that

valley introduce us to the tastes of long-pre-

Culatello di Zibello cold-cut. Some free time to

houses an art gallery, the Renaissance theatre,

seved traditions and give the most incredible

relax. Overnight stay. (BB, T)

the splendid Romanesque cathedral and the

after-taste to the wines produced and sold at this winery: Colli di Parma Malvasia from the

Day 4) Departure

Malvasia di Candia aromatic grape. Tasting of

Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

On request

- Entrance fee and guided tour of the Torrechiara Castle - Vat

The rates include: - 3 nights in hotel - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 2 guided tastings of Slow Food wines, Presidia products and other delicacies from Emilia-Romagna

The rates do not include: Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

Note: If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

octagonal baptistery.

NET PRICES per person (min. 2 pax):

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 86

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN TUSCANY: COLLE VAL D’ELSA, CASTELLINA IN CHIANTI AND MONTALCINO

Siena

3 days | 2 nights WHEN: YEARLY, DEPARTURES EVERY DAY EXCEPT ON TUESDAYS NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): SIENA OR FLORENCE SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the Brunello di Montalcino wine; - the Montalcino honey.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Fattoria Tregole - Osteria di Porta al Cassero

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POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Montalcino, the beautiful medieval town which is famous for its Brunello, one of the best red wines of the world.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 87

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Colle Val d’Elsa Arrive at the hotel and check in. Time to relax. Traditional dinner of local, seasonal and Tuscan Slow Food Presidium produce combined with a selection of regional wines at the Fattoria Tregole in Castellina in Chianti. Overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Montalcino Departure for Montalcino, famous for its Brunello, one of the best red wines in the world. Lunch at the Osteria di Porta al Cassero, a family run hostelry which is in the stables in an ancient fortress, for a traditional menu based on local seasonal produce accompanied by wines from the hills surrounding Montalcino. Some free time after lunch to visit the magnificent

old town centre. We would suggest a visit to the Mastio della Rocca where the Enoteca La Fortezza is located. Here some excellent local honey can be bought which is a real speciality of the town. Afternoon stopover at the prestigious Fattoria dei Barbi to visit the historical cellars that have housed barrels of Brunello since 1892. Enjoy a guided tasting of their prestigious wines accompanied by some local produce. Overnight stay. (BB, L, T)

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax):

Day 3) Departure.

- Vat

Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

On request The rates include: - 2 nights in hotel 4* - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 1 lunch & 1 dinner at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 guided tasting of Slow Food wines, Presidia products and other selected foods from Tuscany

The rates do not include: Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel in-

BB=Buffet Breakfast

surance, tips and anything not specifically

L=Lunch

mentioned in “The rates include”.

LL= light lunch D=Dinner

Note:

T=Tasting

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 88

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN UMBRIA: SAN MARTINO IN CAMPO, PERUGIA AND ORVIETO 3 days | 2 nights

Perugia

WHEN: YEARLY, NOT DEPARTURES ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): PERUGIA SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the wines of the umbrian vineyards; - the raw milk Pecorino cheeses of Pian di Porto.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Trattoria Altromondo - Palazzo del Gusto

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POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Orvieto, situated on top of a rock offering the most splendid of views, with the wonderful the gothic cathedral and the amazing St. Patrick Well.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 89

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival Arrive at the hotel. Time to relax. Transfer to Perugia and dinner dedicated to some typical umbrian and Slow Food Presidia products accompanied by a selection of regional wines in the Trattoria Altromondo in the historical centre of the town, near the main square, Piazza Italia. Overnight stay. (D)

lunch based on a selection of wines accompanied by some typical snacks. Free time to walk around the centre and do some shopping in the local artisan shops. An afternoon visit to the Montecristo dairy in Pian di Porto to sample some cheese made from sheeps milk.

Introduction to the techniques used in the production process. Back to the hotel and overnight stay. (BB, L, T)

Day 3) Departure Day 2) Orvieto Morning arrival in Orvieto, situated at the top of a rocky buttress with some spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Visit the Palazzo del Gusto (“palace of taste”), the umbrian Regional Winery, with a guided tour and light

Breakfast and check-out. (BB

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax): On request The rates include: - 2 nights in hotel - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 2 meals based on traditional regional dishes: - 1 dinner at an “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurant - 1 light lunch at the Palazzo del Gusto Regional Winery - 1 guided tasting of Slow Food cheeses and wines from Umbria - Vat

BB=Buffet Breakfast The rates do not include: Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically

L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner

mentioned in “The rates include”.

T=Tasting

Note: If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 90

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN LAZIO THE CASTELLI ROMANI AREA: GROTTAFERRATA, GENZANO AND FRASCATI 3 days | 2 nights Rome

WHEN: YEARLY, DEPARTURES EVERY DAY EXCEPT ON MONDAYS NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): ROME

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the white pizza-bread of Genzano; - the traditional cakes and the Cannellino wine of Frascati.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Osteria della Bon’Ora - Osteria San Gaetano

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POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE - Frascati and the Villa Aldobrandini.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 91

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival Arrive at hotel and check-in. Time for a walk around in Marino and then departure for Grottaferrata for a traditional dinner at the Osteria della Bon’Ora. Overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) The Castelli Romani area: Genzano, Frascati Morning arrival in Genzano, renowned for its “Infiorata”, folklore and religious festival. Free Time for shopping. A guided tour of the historical town centre: St. Peter’s Square, the Market square (with a stop at the Purificato patisserie), the Bishops Palace (a pontificial prison), before arriving at the Belvedere delle Fraschette viewpoint offering beautiful views of Rome. Dinner in a typical

hostelry - l’Osteria San Gaetano of the “Frascati Community Hosts of Mother Earth”. The menu will be dedicated to the traditional recipes from the Castelli Romani area and will be served with a presentation and tasting of local cakes and biscuits: the Pupazza, the pangiallo, the Tozzetti, the ciambelle al vino and the Serpette all’uovo, with their history and recipes, all accompanied by the Frascati Cannellino wine. Overnight stay. (BB, D)

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax):

Day 3) Departure

Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel in-

Breakfast and check-out. (BB) BB=Buffet Breakfast

On request The rates include: - 2 nights in hotel - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 2 dinners at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 1 guided tour of Frascati - Vat The rates do not include: surance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

Note:

L=Lunch

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries

LL= light lunch

or other businesses becomes necessary for

D=Dinner

any reason, the hotels or other businesses

T=Tasting

substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 92

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN CAMPANIA: SORRENTO, POSITANO AND CETARA 3 days | 2 nights

Naples

WHEN: YEARLY, NOT DEPARTURE ON TUESDAYS NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): SORRENTO OR NAPLES

SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the Cetara anchovy extract (colatura di alici).

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Osteria Torre Ferano - Osteria Al Convento

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POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Positano, with its characteristic white washed houses and balconies draped with bougainvillea and the magnificent Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto).

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 93

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax):

Arrive at the hotel and check in. Time to relax and stroll around the wonderful old town centre of Sorrento. Traditional dinner with local and seasonal produce at the Osteria Torre Ferano located in an hold farmhouse with a great view of the Lattari mountains and the Gulf of Naples.

Overnight stay. (D)

Traditional evening meal in Cetara situated at the foot of Mount Falerio and one of the smallest fishing villages along the Amalfi Coast. Here, one of the best producers of the traditional Colatura di Alici (anchovy sauce) in the entire Campania region can be found. The menu will be dedicated to Amalfi Coast traditions in Il Convento restaurant situated in the cloister of an ancient convent. Overnight stay.

(BB, D)

Day 2) Positano, Cetara

Day 3) Departure

Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel in-

Late morning departure for Positano; outside Sorrento the road winds up through gardens and orchards where vines, lemons and figs grow in abundance alongside each other and overlooking the crystal blue waters of the sea below. Free time to relax and walk around Positano.

Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival

BB=Buffet Breakfast

On request The rates include: - 2 nights in hotel 4* - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 2 dinners at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - Vat The rates do not include: surance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

Note:

L=Lunch

If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries

LL= light lunch D=Dinner

or other businesses becomes necessary for

T=Tasting

any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 94

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN APULIA: GALLIPOLI, LECCE, GALATINA, CUTROFIANO AND PORTO SELVAGGIO 4 days | 3 nights

Lecce

WHEN: YEARLY NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): LECCE SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the typical cheeses of the Porto Selvaggio area; - the Cotognata preserve from Lecce; - the wines and olive oil of Galatina.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Osteria degli Spiriti

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POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Lecce, the splendid ancient town called “the Baroque Pearl”.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 95

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Gallipoli Arrive at the hotel and check-in. Free time for a stroll around the centre of Gallipoli and a visit to the Ipogei ancient oil mill. Overnight stay.

Day 2) Lecce, Galatina Morning guided tour of the historical centre of Lecce, known as “The Pearl of the Baroque”.

Lunch a short distance from the public gardens in the Osteria degli Spiriti for a traditional Lecce menu. Afternoon in Galatina and a visit to the Valle dell’Asso Farm, walk around the farm and taste their wines and olive oils accompanied by some local produce. Overnight. BB, L, T

Day 3) Cutrofiano, Porto Selvaggio Visit a terracotta laboratory in Cutrofiano for a short demonstration. An afternoon visit to the Natural Reserve at Porto Selvaggio, visit the Masseria Brusca, a splendid 16th century building which is part of the Food Community of Porto Selvaggio, and sample the typical local cheeses and preserves from Lecce (the cotognata) and stroll around the Reserve. Overnight stay. (BB, T)

Day 4) Departure Breakfast and check-out. (BB) BB=Buffet Breakfast

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax): On request The rates include: - 3 nights in hotel 4* - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 1 lunch at an “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurant - 2 guided tastings of Slow Food wines, Presidia products and other selected foods from Apulia - Entrance fee to the Ipogei ancient oil mill - 1 visit to Emanuele Maglio’s terracotta laboratory in Cutrofiano - 1 guided tour of Lecce - Vat The rates do not include: Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting

Note: If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 96

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS IN SICILY: PALERMO, ERICE, TRAPANI AND THE MADONIE PARK, POLIZZI GENEROSA 4 days | 3 nights Palermo

WHEN: YEARLY, DEPARTURES ONLY ON FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS NEAREST ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE DESTINATION(S): PALERMO SLOW FOOD PRESIDIA, SLOW WINE AND OTHER SELECTED DELICACIES: - the Badda beans; - the Madonie Provola cheese; - the Manna natural sweetener; - the traditional “old monastery’s” pastries of Erice; - the extra-virgin olive oils of the Mount Erice area; - the Nero d’Avola wine of the Paceco vineyards.

TYPICAL RESTAURANTS FROM THE “OSTERIE D’ITALIA” SLOW FOOD GUIDE: - Trattoria Il Maestro del Brodo - Trattoria Itria

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POINTS OF INTEREST: ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & NATURE Palermo, the magnificent state capital, with its ancient theatres and public buildings, the Cathedral of Monreale, the typical streets and the traditional Vucciria market “Del Capo” or “Ballarò”.

SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 97

ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival, Palermo Arrive at the hotel and check-in. Free time for a stroll through the centre followed by a traditional dinner at the Trattoria Maestro del Brodo that is just a few steps from Corso Vittorio Emanuele one of the access street to the Vucciria market. Overnight stay. (D)

Day 2) Palermo, the Madonie Park: Polizzi Generosa Morning free to walk around Palermo and visit the historical market “Del Capo” or “Ballarò”. We suggest a stop at Scimone pastry that offer a variety of traditional pastries. Late morning departure for Polizzi Generosa, inside the Madonie Park, where lunch will be dedicated to the Madonite cuisine and local produce - including the Slow Food Presidia Fagiolo Badda and Provola cheese - at the Trattoria Itria. Some free time to stroll around Polizzi Generosa, a little medieval town that boasts an extraordinary amount of Norman art. An afternoon visit to La Manna di Zabbra farm, to hear the history of how their ancient desserts and sweets are made and sample the Manna (Slow Food Presidium) and other local products. Overnight stay. (BB, L, T)

local delicacies such as the traditional pastries made from almonds and candied lemon, the Zibibbo wine and the “brutti ma buoni” biscuits. Free time to wander around the heart of the old town centre. Departure to Trapani: free time for some gourmet shopping and to visit Trapani’s oldest bakery, La Rinascente, where they make some typical local delights such as the Savoia and Cassata or at Angelino to taste the true “cannoli siciliani”, the most famous Sicilian pastry dessert.

An afternoon visit to the “Baglio Ingardia” Farm and Winery, situated in Contrada Porticalazzo, in the fertile countryside of Paceco at the foot of Mount Erice, in the heart of the DOP Trapani Valley. Run by Mariella Ingardia and her son Salvatore, exclusive extra-virgin olive oils and the “Nero D’Avola” IGP wine of Sicily have been produced here and sold for well over a hundred years. On the property a majestic 17th century “Baglio” can be found - a typical Sicilian structure which serves the farm. Walk around the winery and taste the oil and Nero d’Avola wine accompanied by some typical local produce. Overnight stay.

(BB, T, T)

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax): On request The rates include: - 3 nights in hotel 4* - Buffet Breakfast Daily - 1 dinner & 1 lunch at “Osterie d’Italia” typical Slow Food restaurants - 3 guided tastings of Slow Food wines, Presidia products and other selected foods from Sicily - Vat The rates do not include: Cities tax, drinks during meals, travel insurance, tips and anything not specifically mentioned in “The rates include”.

Note: If a change in hotels, restaurants, wineries or other businesses becomes necessary for any reason, the hotels or other businesses substituted will be equivalent of those shown.

Day 4) Departure Breakfast and check-out. (BB)

Day 3) Erice, Trapani, Contrada Policazzo Morning in Erice, a magnificent medieval town set in a splendid location. Stop at an ancient patisserie Maria Grammatico that offers recipes from the Antico Convento (Old Monastery), try some of the most popular

BB=Buffet Breakfast L=Lunch LL= light lunch D=Dinner T=Tasting

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SLOW FOOD - SHORT BREAKS PACKAGES 98

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

CLASSIC TOURS SELF DRIVE

SICILY TOUR

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) 7 nights | 8 days Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is ideal for authentic holidays in Italy. The food is different and spicier. The architecture and culture is exciting and vibrant. Holidays in Sicily offer breathtaking cities and exciting sights, combined with secret corners, beautiful countrysides and relaxing beaches.

Day 1) Palermo Arrival at Palermo-Punta Raisi International Airport, collect your car and transfer to your hotel in the city. Check-in and accommodation. Time at disposal. We suggest to taste some delicious Sicilian food along with the famous Sicilian cakes.

Overnight stay.

Day 2) Palermo, Monreale After breakfast departure for a visit to the most important monuments of Palermo

and Monreale. Palermo reached its greatest splendour after the Norman conquest. The Cathedral, St. John of Hermits, Norman Palace, Palatine Chapel. Later on visit of Monreale with its outstanding Cathedral and Benedictine Cloister built in the 12th century. Free time in the afternoon before returning to the hotel.

Overnight in Palermo.

Day 3) Palermo, Cefalù After breakfast departure for a tour off the beaten track of Palermo. Visit of the Capuchins’ Catacombs with the strange and macabre collection of mummies.

Pleasant walk through the outdoor traditional market. Departure to Cefalù. This little town perched on a rocky promontory was the favourite residence of the Norman King Roger II who built the monumental Cathedral, with the most finest

Palermo Trapani

Taormina Agrigento

Byzantine mosaics in the world. Free time to wander in the narrow streets of the city.

Return to the hotel in Palermo for overnight stay.

Day 4) Palermo - Segesta, Erice, Trapani Breakfast at hotel and departure for Segesta. We will tour the old town, the mighty Doric temple held by 36 columns, and the Greek theatre. Then we will go to

the medieval city of Erice, which stands upon an impressive hill, famous for the scientific cultural centre “Ettore Maiorana”. In particular we will visit the historical centre: the “Matrice” with its marvellous bell tower, the “Balio”, the Norman Castle and the Venus Castle. A panoramic tour of Trapani will follow.

Overnight at the hotel in Trapani.

Day 5) Trapani, Selinunte, Agrigento After breakfast depart to Selinunte and visit one of the largest archaeological parks in Europe: the Acropolis with its marvellous temples, evidence of the Greek and Phoenician - Punic civilization.

Continue to Agrigento and visit the “Valle dei Templi” (Valley of the Temples).

Overnight in Agrigento.

Day 6) Agrigento, Taormina After breakfast departure to Taormina.

During the tour there will be several halts to rest and admire the beautiful landscape of the Ionian coast and of its limpid sea. Arrival in Taormina, check-in. In the afternoon visit to the city centre with private guide. Overnight.

Day 7) Taormina Time at disposal to discover the town or just to relax on the beach. Taormina is situated on the southern coast of Sicily and faces the Ionian Sea. This town has got a privileged position: at about 200 meters above the sea level, it has the appearance of a terrace, enriched by a beautiful landscape, where Mount Etna is the protagonist. The town is characterized by its cultural and naturalistic beauty and has always been the destination of celebrated personalities, both coming from the world of culture and art.

Visit to the Tenuta San Michele in Santa Venerina. Driving along the beautiful Sicilian countryside to reach the Tenuta, property of the family Scamacca del Murgo. The estate, closed to Mount Etna, produces wine but also products as oil, honey and jams. Guests will be invited to a visit of the cellar followed by a small tasting of typical products of the estate.

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 7 nights’ accommodation in double/single room • Daily breakfast • Visits with privates guides as per programme; Palermo & Monreale HD, Palermo HD, Cefalù HD, Segesta/Erice and Trapani HD, Selinunte HD, Agrigento HD, Taormina HD, Mount Etna HD. • Entrance fees to museums/monuments included as per program • 1 tasting of local products • VAT

Day 8) Departure After breakfast, checkout and departure to Catania International Airport for your return flight.

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CLASSIC TOURS - SELF DRIVE 101

AMALFI COAST TOUR

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) 7 nights | 8 days Vibrant, unique, passionate, rich in art and architecture and with spectacular sea, this is the bay lying in the shadows of Vesuvius. The Bay of Naples, is renowned for the luxurious hospitality, the passion for music, dance, and the dramatic arts. From the vibrant and densely populated city of Naples to the elegant Sorrento and the ruins of Pompeii, the bay offers a series of unique and unforgettable towns and seascapes. Vying with the beauties of the mainland, across the water lies the small island of the gulf, Capri.

Day 1) Naples Arrival at Naples - Capodichino International Airport, collect your car ad transfer to your hotel in the city. Overnight in Naples.

Day 2) Naples Breakfast and time to visit Naples most famous monuments with your private guide: Castel Nuovo also known as Maschio Angioino,

Royal Palace, San Carlo Opera House, Santa Chiara Complex. A special stop will be dedicated to San Gennaro Museum where a inestimable treasure is preserved dated back to 1300. Closed to the Museum the Real Chapel where you can visit Luca Giordano’s frescoes and Domenichino’s paintings and the most important the beaker with San Gennaro’s blood.

Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Naples.

Option : Discover the secrets of our vineyard Villa Matilde, closed to Naples. You will visit the property in a special itinerary showing the productions procedures and methods, wine tasting and gourmet lunch.

Day - Naples, Pompei, Sorrento After breakfast, departure to Pompeii. Visit with your private guide of the luxurious villas and temples, theatre and forum of Pompeii, destroyed in AD 79 by the Vesuvius eruption.

Continuing to Sorrento. The Sorrento Penin-

Naples

sula has a unique landscape in the world, where natural beauties alternate, where the man’s work - who levelled even the most impervious areas, transforming them in the famous terraces degrading towards the sea, on which he cultivated orange and lemon trees, olive groves and vineyards - has been grandiose. This beautiful town is one of the favourite destination holiday all year round.

Even in Roman times, Sorrento was popular for its pleasant climate and charming atmo-

Rossellini, from Federico Fellini to Winston Churchill. Richard Wagner was another great man to be seduced by the charm of Ravello, and it was here that he found the inspiration for much of his music. It is not surprising then, that the important Ravello Music Festival is dedicated to the illustrious German composer. We suggest to have your lunch in Amalfi and the dinner in Ravello then overnight stay in one of its charming hotels.

Day 7) Amalfi coast, Salerno, Naples

sphere. It is perched on a cliff overlooking their magnificent Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance. Check-in your hotel. Overnight in Sorrento.

Day 4) Sorrento, Capri Breakfast and departure by ferry boat to the small and marvellous worldwide known island of Capri. As you travel south across the Bay of Naples you see before you the unique, dramatic outline of Capri, one of the most elegant and sought after resorts. For centuries Capri was the playground of Roman Emperors and Patricians, who built villas and undertook great engineering projects on the island. Augustus had a favourite seaside villa here and his successor Tiberius built what is now the best preserved Roman Villa in Italy, Villa Jovis. Capri became popular with European artists and musicians, writers and other celebrities from the end of the 19th century, (Debussy, Somerset Maugham and many more). Today it is still a magnet for jet-setters. In the afternoon return to Sorrento by ferry boat. Overnight in Sorrento.

Day 5) Sorrento, Positano Departure to Positano along the prettiest and most romantic cost of Italy. This dramatically beautiful town clinging to the cliff face as if about to cascade into the turquoise waters below has become synonymous with beach fashion. Positano’s elegant shop windows are full of displays of brightly coloured robes, bikinis, bags, and bermuda shorts all made in cool linen, gauze and cotton. Time to relax. Overnight in this fabulous little city in one of its hotels.

Day 6) Positano, Amalfi coast After breakfast departure to Amalfi and Ravello passing through Praiano, which, in the

era of the Maritime Republics, came under the rule of nearby Amalfi. It may be less famous than Amalfi, but Praiano, which hosts a series of important traditional festivals and cultural events each year, is just as beautiful. A procession of attractive little white houses lines the road leading from Praiano to the small towns of Furore and Conca dei Marini. The earliest mention of Furore dates back to 1752. The town, situated on extremely impervious terrain, is known for its cuisine which uses the local tomatoes, olive oil, potatoes and mountain herbs to great effect. Just beyond Furore, we come to Conca dei Marini, a fishing village known above all for the Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto).

Arrival in the historic town of Amalfi an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Undisputed ruler of the seas in the 12th century, the town’s gradual decline from power has in no way diminished the beauty of its monuments, such as the cathedral: a veritable gothic masterpiece complete with highly decorative façade and impressive flight of steps. The immense cathedral doors, made in bronze, were realised in Constantinople in 1065. Whilst wandering through the picturesque lanes of Amalfi, lined with tiny white cottages and shops, it is easy to catch a scent of the “sfusato” lemons which grow in abundance on this stretch of coast and are used to make the area’s highly prized Limoncello liquor.

From Amalfi you take the provincial highway which leads to Ravello, a small town built above those of Maiori and Minori, on a high plain of the Dragone Valley. Breathtaking views of the Gulf of Salerno can be admired from the terraces of the elegant villas for which the town is famous, villas once chosen as preferred residence of many famous personages, from J.F. Kennedy to Roberto

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Today once again on the SS163, after Minori and Maiori passing through Capo d’Orso we come to the last town of the Amalfi Coast Vietri sul Mare, built in one of the most sheltered areas of the Gulf of Salerno, is a town of Etruscan origin. A popular seaside holiday destination, Vietri sul Mare is perhaps most famous for its production of handcrafted ceramics decorated by hand, displayed in the numerous workshops which line the streets of the town. Lunch in Maiori - Restaurant suggestion: Il Faro di Capo Orso, the restaurant, established in 1930, faces the splendid gulf. The tour continues in direction of Salerno to reach Naples. Overnight in Naples.

Day 8) Departure After breakfast, checkout and transfer by your car to Naples International Airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 7 nights’ accommodation in double/single room • Daily breakfast • Return ferry boat to Capri • Minibus for the tour in Capri • Visits with private guides in Naples (1 full day), in Pompeii (1 half day) and in Capri (1 full day).

• Admission fees for the Maschio Angioino, the Royal Palace and the San Gennaro Museum in Naples and the Pompeii excavations • VAT

CLASSIC TOURS - SELF DRIVE 103

NORTHERN ITALIAN LAKES

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) 6 nights | 7 days

Milan Venice

The Tour of Northern Italy offers a unique travel and exciting journey through the North of this marvellous country.

Breathtaking scenery, wonderful food, and people with an infectious passion for life, it’s hard to imagine a country with more to offer.

Day 1) Milan Arrival at Milan International Airport, collect your car and transfer to your hotel in Milan. Check-in and accommodation in double deluxe room. Time at disposal.

Overnight in Milan.

Day 2) Milan Breakfast at the hotel. Morning private guided tour of Milan, the capital of fashion and business. Discover the Duomo Cathedral, the Scala Theatre, Castello Sforzesco and the Vittorio Emanuele Gallery. In the

afternoon you can enjoy the atmosphere of the world’s capital of fashion, go shopping in the most exclusive shops: from Gucci to Bally, from Prada to Alberta Ferretti, Versace and more.

Overnight in Milan.

Day 3) Milan, Lecco, Bellagio, Cernobbio After breakfast and checkout, departure from your hotel and begin of your exclusive tour.

Departure towards Como Lake. Our tour will go along the splendid scenarios offered by this beautiful northern Italy’s lake. The itinerary drives you towards Como lake with a first stop in Lecco for a coffee. The curvy road that runs near to the lake side leads to Bellagio for lunch.

After the lunch, time for a walk in the beautiful village of Bellagio. The tour

continues in direction of Cernobbio, near Como, to reach the hotel. Check-in at the hotel and time at disposal to relax.

Overnight in Cernobbio or nearby city.

Day 4) Cernobbio, Franciacorta, Sirmione Breakfast and checkout. Departure for Garda Lake, to reach Sirmione with a stop in the famous wineyard area of Franciacorta. Visit to the Cantine

Berlucchi of Relais Franciacorta, where the famous Prosecco white wine is produced since 1961. Lunch. Suggestion for restaurant: in Franciacorta at Relais Franciacorta Restaurant. The route by car leads to Sirmione on Garda Lake. Arrival in Sirmione and check-in at the hotel.

Time at disposal to visit the village of Sirmione, known also as the pearl of the lake, and to relax at the hot springs.

Overnight in Sirmione or nearby city.

Day 5) Sirmione, Venice Breakfast and checkout. Departure by car for Venice and arrival at Piazzale Roma, arrival

point of your tour by car. En route: stop in Verona, visit of the town and lunch. Arrival in Venice. From Piazzale Roma transfer to the hotel by private taxi-boat. Accommodation in your hotel in Venice. Overnight stay.

Day 6) Venice After breakfast, morning walking private guided visit of Venice. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Venice.

Day 7) Departure After breakfast, checkout and transfer by private water taxi and car to Venice International airport for your return flight.

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PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 6 nights’ accommodation in double/single room; • One way private transfer from Piazzale Roma in Venice to the hotel; • Daily breakfast; • Visits with private guides in Milan and Venice; • 1 Wine tasting; • Departure transfer by boat and car from hotel to airport of Venice; • VAT

CLASSIC TOURS - SELF DRIVE 105

PIEDMONT AND LIGURIA TOUR

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) 7 nights | 8 days Turin

Piedmont land of snow capped mountains, castles, truffles and vineyards, where some of Italy’s finest wines are produced.

Liguria land of world-famous beaches, rocky, magnificent coastline, enchanting countryside, coloured villages, flowers and history.

Day 1) TURIN Arrival at Turin airport, collect your car and transfer to your hotel. Time to settle in. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Turin.

Day 2) TURIN After the breakfast at the hotel, your tour voyage of discovery begins with a private city tour. Turin from 1861 to 1865, was the first capital of unified Italy and it is now the undisputed capital of Italy’s automobile and design industry. There are more than forty museums in Turin

such as the museum in which the Holy Shroud is displayed or the Museo Nazionale della Montagna “Duca degli Abruzzi”, the Egyptian Museum, in the Palazzo dell’Accademia delle Scienze, that is the second largest in the world, after that in Cairo. Turin is famous for both its coffee culture and for the production of chocolate: a delicacy to which a soon-toopen museum at Porta Palazzo will be entirely devoted. As of July 2000, one of the symbols of Turin, the imposing Mole Antonelliana, has housed the city’s National Cinema Museum. The rest of the day is free. Overnight stay in Turin.

Day 3) ASTI, MONFERRATO AREA After breakfast and checkout, your exclusive tour begins. Just a few kilometres South of Turin, Asti is one of Piedmont’s most elegant cities, famous

Genoa

for its magnificent tower houses, superb wines and spectacular Palio horse race.

Departure for the Monferrato hills, stop at the regional Winery of Acqui Terme to visit the ancient cellars with their collection of traditional tools and instruments. Free time to visit the magnificent centre of Acqui Terme.

Departure to Alba. Arrival at the hotel, check-in. The rest of the day is free.

Overnight in Alba area.

Day 4) ALBA, LANGHE, ROERO AREA Visit of the enchanting city of Alba. Alba is both the capital of Langhe and the Italian white truffle capital. It is here, that a world famous truffle festival has been held, since 1929. South of Alba, is Roddi, a charming little town which more than merits a visit, if only to see its splendid 11th century castle.

Built in the highest part of the historic centre, the stronghold has recently been included in a selected group of eight castles within the area of Langhe and Roero, known as I Castelli Doc. Continue on visiting another of the I Castelli Doc: Grinzane Cavour Castle became a symbol of the Langa del Barolo after Count Benso transformed it into a production base for the great wines of Langa. We suggest a visit of this castle that is now an important wine museum and an ethnographic museum which illustrates the local farming traditions. It is also home of the Piedmont Regional Winery, taste some of the wines from Langa and Roero. Overnight in Alba area.

Day 5) THE GULF OF POETS, PORTOVENERE, LERICI Breakfast and checkout. Departure for Portovenere. Arrival at your hotel, checkin and relax. Take a stroll in the fascinating centre, with its multi-coloured houses and medieval streets. Explore the tiny traditional shops or enjoy an ice-cream at the famous Bar Lamia. In the afternoon departure for Lerici, along the scenic route bordering the sea; visit the colourful and lively centre with free time to wander around the craftsmen’s workshops and the stalls selling fresh fish. Departure to your hotel in Riviera area.

Day 6) THE CINQUE TERRE Breakfast and check out. Departure for the Cinque Terre. Between Punta Cavo di Montenero and Punta Mesco there are the famous Cinque Terre, a unique geographical area, rich in tiny peninsulas and bays. The Cinque Terre are Monterosso, Vernazza, Coniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The towns have an ancient agricultural tradition and in order to protect the spectacular terraces of many kilometers in length, the area has now been designated the National Nature Reserve of the Cinque Terre. In 1997 the area was awarded World Heritage status

by UNESCO. The area bordering the sea is also protected, providing excellent opportunities for deep sea diving. Arrival in Monterosso, wander around this lovely old fishing village, once the refuge of poets and writers. Move to Riomaggiore, visit this little characteristic village, town of colourful houses, narrow lanes, hidden alleyways, porticoes and incredibly steep flights of steps. Departure for Manarola.

Visit the centre of the city with its traditional pink houses. Departure to your hotel in the Riviera area and overnight stay.

Day 7) PORTOFINO, CAMOGLI, SANTA MARGHERITA LIGURE After breakfast, departure for the pearls of the Ligurian Riviera: Portofino, Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure and many others.

The route winds through dense greenery, across rocky promontories, past little villages. The first stop is the resort of Bogliasco with its brightly coloured dwellings. Further down the coast, and a short distance from the Roman road

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Aurelia, is the village of Pieve Ligure, not far from which is the famous Oratory of St. Anthony Abbot. The Aurelia road leads to Recco which is not a typical Ligurian town.

Having been extensively bombed in 1944, it was almost entirely rebuilt. Known as Liguria's "gastronomic capital", Recco is famous for its focaccia filled with cheese.

In Camogli, your next stop, another unusual festival is held - a fish festival which is a great attraction. The hillsides above Camogli abound with flowers and herbs, rosemary, thyme and rue (rutacea) and it may be that rue, the most important herbs in medieval times, that gave the village of Ruta above Camogli its name.

Continuing down the coast along the beautiful Tigullio Gulf you leave the Aurelia to visit Santa Margherita, a famous resort for many years. There are tree lined boulevards and large hotels, craft shops, colourful houses beside a lively harbour.

And finally to finish, two contrasting Italys - the exclusive, ritzy, glitzy playground of the rich that is Portofino and the Nature Park, a promontory with one of Italy's most fabulously beautiful stretches of coastline - the Monte di Portofino Park. Departure to Genoa. Arrival at your hotel. Time to settle in. Overnight stay.

Day 8) DEPARTURE After breakfast, checkout and transfer to Genoa International Airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 7 nights’ accommodation in double/single room • Daily breakfast • Visits with private guides in Turin (half day), Asti (half day) and Alba (half day) • Admission charges for Turin (Mole Antonelliana and Royal Palace) • VAT

CLASSIC TOURS - SELF DRIVE 107

APULIA TOUR

SELF DRIVE (Rent of a car is necessary for this kind of tour) 6 nights | 7 days Day 1 -Bari Arrival at Palese International Airport, collect your luggage and your car and transfer to Bari to your hotel. Check-in and day at leisure. Overnight in Bari.

Day 2) Bari, Alberobello After breakfast, departure to reach Castellana Grotte. You will visit the wonderful Grotte di Castellana situated at a depth of 70 meters, along more than 1 mile of road. In the afternoon you will visit Alberobello, a unique village famous for the presence of its ‘Trullo’ dwellings, small circular shaped abodes with conical shaped roofs. Arrival at the hotel and check-in. Overnight in Alberobello.

Day 3) Alberobello, Ostuni, Gallipoli After breakfast at the hotel, departure to Ostuni, known as “White City” due to its

Bari

small white houses, typical of Mediterranean architecture. You will visit the historic centre of the city, including the Church of St Maria Maddalena, Palazzo Ducale, the Guglia di St Oronzo, the Sanctuaries of St Oronzo and St Biagio, the Church of the Annunziata, the Cathedral of Ostuni with the Bastions of Aragon. In the afternoon, stop at the splendid Masseria Ferri to try some of their cheeses, including Caciocavallo, Cacio ricotta and Canestrato. Departure to Gallipoli. Check in and time at leisure.

Overnight in Gallipoli.

Day 4) Gallipoli and Lecce After breakfast, private visit of Gallipoli with its splendid and characteristic historical town centre that appears almost like an island connected by a bridge to the new city. Departure to Lecce and walking

Lecce Gallipoli

tour of the ancient town. Known as “the Florence of Baroque”, Lecce has a wealth of architectural monuments in Baroque style, with portals and monuments made from Pietra Leccese, a gold colored stone.

Return to your hotel in Gallipoli and overnight stay.

Day 5) Gallipoli, Leuca and Otranto After breakfast, departure to reach the southernmost town of the Salento: Santa

Maria di Leuca. Here, towering above the point where the waters of the Adriatic and the Ionic sea meet, we find one of Italy’s most important lighthouses, a 48m high structure, situated on the cliffs some 102m above the level of the sea. Proceeding along the coastal road which from Leuca leads all the way to Otranto, past a string of panoramic promontories and enchanting little coves, we arrive at Castro Marina, ancient fishing village enclosed from a bay sheltered from the wind and the sea. The most important caves of Romanelli and Zinzulusa are famous for their immense natural beauty and for the prehist oric remains which were discovered inside them. A few kilometres further north there is Santa Cesarea Terme, an elegant thermal establishment, renowned for its superb range of spa treatments. In the afternoon, you will arrive in Otranto.

Check in at your hotel and time at leisure.

Overnight stay.

Day 6) Otranto, Brindisi, Bari After breakfast, you discover the historical centre of Otranto. You can visit the Cathedral, Casa Arcella, the Byzantine Church of St Pietro, the Church of St Maria dei Martiri, the Aragon Castle, the Borgo Antico, the Harbor.

In the afternoon, departure to Brindisi. The power and fame of this city have been guaranteed for centuries due the port, which is the safest of all those in the Adriatic sea. The port was called the “Passport to the Orient” after the opening of the Suez Canal, and today is the doorway’ for thousands of tourists travelling towards the East. After the tour, departure to Bari.

Check in and overnight in Bari.

Day 7) Departure

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 6 nights’ accommodation in double/single room: 2 nights in Bari, 1 night in Alberobello, 2 nights • in Gallipoli, 1 night in Otranto • Daily breakfast • Half day (2 hours) visits with privates guides as per programme : Alberobello, Ostuni, Gallipoli, Lecce, Otranto and Brindisi.

• Entrances included: Grotte of Castellana and Museo del Territorio in Alberobello • 1 tasting of local cheese • VAT

After breakfast, check out and departure for the airport.

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CLASSIC TOURS - SELF DRIVE 109

TUSCANY - SIENA AMAZING PALIO RACE 5 days | 4 nights Siena

Although known the world over for its architecture, proud population, and vibrant party spirit, Siena is perhaps best recognized for its famous Palio di Siena horse race. Held twice each Summer (July 2 and August 16), “Il Palio” is a 90-second bareback dash around the enormous Piazza del Campo - a competition that has occurred every year (save for one during World War II) since the first stallions lined up in 1656.

THE RACE: The morning of the competition begins with a special mass to bless the riders and horses, followed by a colourful parade that ends in the Campo for the 60,000-plus spectators. Each contrade’s participant enters the square around

3:30p.m., but the main processional does not get going till around 5p.m., when a pageant of flag throwers dressed in medieval garb parade through the Piazza bearing the colours and symbols of their districts. As the riders enter, the air fills with cheers, whistles, and songs while the horses are coaxed, cajoled, and pulled into position. The race itself usually begins around 7p.m., though the actual start time depends greatly on whether the skittish mares feel like lining up in the first place. Three laps around the Campo - a mere 90 seconds later - and the race is over. But the party has just begun.

PLANNING AHEAD: No tickets are necessary since entry into the Piazza Campo is free.

PRE-RACE: Consider the following tips and facts when preparing for a day in the Campo.

• Food and beverage: concession stands inside the Campo sell non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. Public water fountains are available, but the lines can get long with 60,000 thirsty people. Many spectators bring food and drink in with them. Sun block is also encouraged, as there is little shade inside the Campo.

• Gate closings: gates into the Campo start to close around 4pm, but there is no set time for each gate. The last gate to close is the one closest to and just to the right of the clock tower, which may close any time between 5:30-6:15pm.

There is no other entry into the Campo.

• Arrival Time: there are no reserved spots inside the Campo, and many groups have already staked out a spot by noon. It’s best to go with several people so there’s someone to hold the fort during food and bathroom runs.

(city district) museums. Afternoon at leisure. In the evening you can witness one of the six trials. For each trial, the horse is accompanied to the Municipality courtyard from the contrada’s stables by a dense crowd of the people of that contrada, who often start singing traditional songs.

AFTER THE RACE: Parties erupt throughout the city after Il Palio, the largest of which is held in the winning contrade. Groups also reconvene in the Campo later in the evening, and stay deep into the night.

Day 4) Morning at leisure. Witness the last trial, called the “provaccia” (the bad trial) for the lack of enthusiasm shown by the jockeys who spare the horses for the demanding evening race. In the afternoon participate in the ceremony of the Blessing of the Horses. Citizens from the various contrade gather together in the church. Afterwards, the costumed representatives of the contrade and the municipality cross the historic town centre, stopping at the Monte dei Paschi bank headquarters, at the “Casino dei Nobili”, in front of the Palazzo Chigi Saracini and at Piazza del Duomo to perform the flag games. Later on it is time to take your place in Piazza del Campo square to watch the race. A guide will explains all

SUGGESTED ITINERARY Day 1) Arrival at Florence airport. Transfer to your hotel in Siena by private car.

Day 2) Morning guided tour of the historical centre of Siena with specialized guide who will introduce you to many of the traditions and secrets of this splendid city, with a unique visit to one of the contrada’s

the race procedures and rules to you.

Day 5) Transfer to Florence airport for your return flight.

Day 3) Departure for San Gimignano for a walking tour of the town of towers. Back to Siena to attend the last Trial, the Prova Generale (rehearsal).

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PRICES On request

Inclusions: • 4 nights in your selected Hotel in Siena • Entrance fee to one of the contrada’s museums • 2 half day guide services (2 hours each) in Siena • 1 half day excursion to San Gimignano by private car (without guide) • Return private transfer from Florence Airport to Hotel in Siena • Daily breakfast • VAT

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LATIUM - TIVOLI, ROME, VISIT OF VILLA D’ESTE 3 days | 2 nights Day 1) Upon arrival, transfer by private car to your hotel in Rome. Day at leisure.

Enjoy the city on your own. See Via Veneto, centre of La Dolce Vita, Piazza Barberini, to view Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Triton Fountain. Then Piazza di Spagna, the shopping streets of Via dei Condotti, Via del Corso, Via del Babuino. Next up is Piazza Venezia and the gigantic Vittoriano. Lunch and dinner free. Overnight stay.

to visit Villa d’Este. 50 fountains, 250 water spouts, 255 waterfalls, 100 tanks spread over more than 4 ha: only the numbers would be enough to make the Villa d’Este, the most majestic Italian garden. Yet there is much more than this: the dragon Ladon fight against Diana of Ephesus, Hercules is at the crossroads in the choice between good and evil .. But before we enjoy a nice dinner. End of tour, return to Rome and overnight stay.

Day 2) Morning at leisure. Lunch free. In the afternoon departure to Tivoli, small town located 32 km approx. from Rome,

Day 3) After the breakfast in your hotel, private transfer to Rome airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request

INCLUSIONS:

Euro 1.059,00 in single room

Rome

• 2 nights in your centrally located Hotel • daily breakfast • private transfer on arrival and departure • private car at disposal for the afternoon on day 2 • 3 hours private guide • admission fee to Villa D’Este • dinner - drinks not included • VAT

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LATIUM - FIUGGI, THE HEARTH OF ITALY 8 days | 7 nights Day 1) Arrival in Rome and transfer by private car to your hotel in Fiuggi. Check in and time at leisure.

Day 2) Transfer to Rome to discover the treasures of the Roman Empire: take a look at the Coliseum (exterior) and walk along the Roman Forum to arrive in Piazza Venezia with its monument dedicated to King Vittorio Emanuele II. Continue your stroll to Piazza del Campidoglio. Return to your hotel (transfer from Fiuggi may be by public transport).

Day 3) Transfer to Rome and arrive at St. Peter’s Square, visit St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums with the famous Sistine Chapel. Return to Fiuggi in the afternoon.

Day 6) A walking tour of Fiuggi, starting with the medieval town, which is characterized by winding alleys, little squares and houses built one on top of the other.

Then on to Fiuggi Fonte, the 20th century spa town, followed by a visit of the surrounding territory and its forest brimming with chestnut trees, oaks, firs and redwood. Finally, a visit to the nature reserve of Lake Canterno.

Rome

Day 7) Day at leisure.

Day 8) Transfer to Rome airport for your departure.

Day 4) A journey to discover the medieval villages located around Fiuggi, including Anagni, city of the Popes and Alatri famous for its ancient walls. Enjoy a wine tasting and return to your hotel.

PRICES

INCLUSIONS:

On request

• 7 nights accommodation in 3* or 4* Hotel in Fiuggi Fonte - Half Board basis • Round trip transfer between Rome Fiumicino Airport and hotel • Excursion to medieval villages around the Ciociaria area and wine tasting • Half day guided tour of Fiuggi

Day 5) Transfer to Pompei to visit of the luxurious villas and temples, theatre and forum destroyed in 79 AD by the Vesuvius eruption. Return to your hotel in the afternoon.

• Excursion of Ancient Rome with half day guided tour • Admission to Fonte Anticolana or Fonte Bonifacio for 1 day • VAT

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VENICE, DOLOMITE MOUNTAINS AND VERONA SHAKESPEAREAN TALES 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrival in Venice airport and transfer to hotel in Venice Mestre for check in.

Day 2) Morning guided walking tour in Venice. Among other famous places, you will see St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and the old prisons. Lunch at leisure.

Free time in the afternoon, with option of joining a motorboat excursion to the Islands of the Lagoon: Murano, Burano and Torcello, or for shopping.

served Roman amphitheatre that stands in the heart of the historic centre, which is still used for the famous open air Opera festival. Time to explore the city and discover Juliet’s famous balcony and the Church of San Zeno, perhaps the finest Romanesque building in Italy.

Verona

Day 5) Transfer to Venice airport for return flight.

Day 3) Enjoy a memorable day exploring Cortina and the Dolomite mountains. During the day make numerous stops at scenic viewpoints, walk around lakes and spend some time in the cosmopolitan town of Cortina. The beauty of these mountains is in their diversity. During your day, you will see distant glaciers, soaring peaks, extensive pine and larch forests surrounding emerald green lakes which mirror the mountains on their calm waters, and typical Tyrolean villages clinging to the mountainsides. Return to hotel in Mestre.

Day 4) Full day excursion to Verona, known for the magnificent and well-pre-

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS:

• 4 nights’ accommodation in 4* hotel in Venice Mestre • 1 private half day guide service in Venice (2 hours) • 1 full day excursion (8 hours max.) to the Cortina by private car (without guide) • First class return train ticket Venice Mestre / Verona / Venice Mestre

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• Round trip private transfer from Venice Airport to Hotel • Daily breakfast • VAT

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LOMBARDY, MILAN AND CREMONA ON THE CLASSICAL MUSIC ROUTE 6 days | 5 nights Day 1) Arrival in Milan, check-in at your hotel. Overnight.

Day 2) Morning tour of Milan, including visit to the Casa Verdi, the rest home for retired and needy musicians founded by Giuseppe Verdi. Continue on to the Teatro alla Scala that, during the 20th century, became an independent corporate theatre under Toscanini’s artistic direction. After him great interpreters, conductors, stenographers and directors have made La Scala one of the highest qualitative theatres of the contemporary age. In the afternoon visit the city including the Basilica of St. Ambrose and the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Loggia), interior of the Cathedral (cycle of frescoes dating back to the early 16th century and recent findings), the inside of the Palazzo Comunale (City Hall) with the collection of ancient instruments made by Andrea Amati, Antonio Stradivari and Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù. It is usually possible to book and enjoy a short performance on one of the antique violins.

Overnight stay.

Milan

Day 5) Departure for Milan, by first class train. Arrival, check-in at your hotel. Day at leisure for shopping in Milan’s elegant shopping arcades. Overnight stay.

Day 6) Departure and end of services.

Day 3) Departure by first class train for the city of art and music, Cremona, most famous as the centre of violin-making since the workshops were established there in the 16th century by Amati and Stradivarius. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel, afternoon at leisure and overnight stay.

Day 4) Visit all the medieval buildings facing Piazza del Comune (Cathedral, Baptistery, Torrazzo Tower, City Hall, Soldiers’

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS:

• 3 nights in Milan, 2 nights in Cremona in 3* or 4* hotel • Round trip transfer Milan airport / Hotel in Milan • 1 Full day with private guide in Milan • 1 Half day with private guide in Cremona

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• Return first class train Milan / Cremona / Milan • Entrance fees to: Casa Verdi and La Scala in Milan, Museo Civico with Sala dei Violini in Cremona • Daily breakfast • VAT

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UMBRIA 8 days | 7 nights

1 Day) Arrival Arrival in Rome airport and transfer with private car from Rome to Perugia. Time to settle in.

In the afternoon private visit of Perugia, the capital of Umbria and one of the local hill towns. It is a city full of Charme and history. With your private guide you will walk along its city wall dating from the Etruscan age, get lost in the symbols carved by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano's into the Fontana Maggiore and find yourself fascinated by the many layers of the Rocca Paolina. Perugia is a city full of Charme and history. Every ancient gate, alley, piazza, palazzo and church will capture your imagination; and every museum and gallery will impress you with a sense of history, culture and art. Perugia is not just a stuffy old showcase of the ancient, it also has a young, vibrant and energetic feel. Perugia is the site of many festivals and concerts, the most important of which are the annual fall Chocolate festival and the summer Umbria Jazz festival, lending the city to a chic and urbane atmosphere unmatched by other Italian cities. Overnight.

2 Day) Orvieto - Todi Morning visit to Orvieto, situated on top of

a rock offering the most splendid of views. Private Tour of the city, including the Duomo Gothic Cathedral. Stop in the Antico Buttero and visit the traditional underground wine cellar dug in the tuff rock where for centuries it has produced and stored the wine Orvieto: wine tasting with light lunch. We suggest: an afternoon visit to Todi, a splendid medieval town, where it is pleasant to wander around and discover the old monuments and craft shops. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

Perugia

3 Day) Assisi – Spello After breakfast your guide will meet you at your hotel and departure for Assisi.

During the tour you will explore the birthplace of St. Francis and learn more about Italy’s famous patron saint. You will visit the old Roman ruins of the local amphitheatre, which was reused in the Middle Ages as a quarry for stones to build local houses. You will see how the amphitheatre was turned into a private neighbourhood. Through narrow alleys and medieval squares you will reach Saint Rufino’s Cathedral and Saint Claire's Basilica. From there, you will get to the main city square, Piazza del Comune. At the square, you will see one of

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the best-preserved Roman temples in Italy – Minerva's temple – which is surrounded by imposing medieval government buildings.

The tour will then head down to the Basilica of Saint Francis, which is world-famous for its 13th-14th century frescoes by the best painters of Italy at that time.

Among those, the most famous is Giotto.

After free time for lunch, drive to the walled town of Spello on the slopes of Mount Subasio, with commanding views of the Umbrian plains, groves of olives, and vineyards. There will be the chance to taste wines and olive oils during your

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and convent of San Francesco built in the late thirteenth century. The facade has an elegant portal and inside along the nave, you can admire the paintings by Dono Doni and Ascensidonio Spacca and the remains of frescoes of the sixteenth century. Near the altar, protected by a grate, is exposed the stone where, according to tradition, St. Francis put his feet during the " preaching to the birds " in Pian D'Arca. There are also a chapel attributed to Galeazzo Alessi , which has a Tabernacle of the fifteenth century and a dome decorated with fine glazed earthenware , attributed to Santi Buglioni. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

8 Day) Departure After breakfast and transfer with private car to Rome Airport.

PRICES per person (min. 2 pax): On request

tour, and if it’s a market day you can see the thriving trade of these ancient products still carried on to this day. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

4 Day) Gubbio After breakfast your guide will meet you at your hotel and departure for Gubbio.

Visit the charming town possessed of an exceptionally evocative medieval atmosphere. Gattapone, a native son of Gubbio, designed the beautiful Piazza Grande and the 14th century palaces which stand around it - one of the greatest projects of the Middle Ages. The square is also the starting point for an incredible race called the Corsa dei Ceri, which has been run almost every year since medieval times.Every May, teams from different neighbourhoods (contrada) in the city race to carry a huge, one tonne "candle" topped with the replica of a local saint to the cathedral high above the town to the wild and enthusiastic shouting of townspeople and visitors alike. Return to the hotel and overnight stay

5 Day) Perugia/Montefalco After breakfast departure to Montefalco,

a splendid town situated on top of a hill, offering spectacular views over the hills.

Visit the ancient olive groves - 3,000 plants - belonging to the Azienda Romanelli family, to discover the many plant varieties and the extra virgin olive oil production techniques, along with a tasting.

Arrive in Montefalco and check in in your hotel. Overnight.

The rates include:

6 Day) Valley of Umbria

- HD Orvieto walking tour (2 hours)

The centre of southern Valley of Umbria is surrounded by fields of sunflowers, vineyards and olive orchards. As we tour this area we will again enjoy the beautiful fusion of art, architecture and gastronomy. We will visit Montefalco, Foligno and Trevi all of which are surrounded by fields of sunflowers In the tows we will see art by such great artists as Gentile da Fabriano and Benozzo Gozzoli, whose frescoes are among the best in Italy. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

- 7 nights’ accommodation: - Perugia 4 night - Montefalco 3 nights - Daily breakfast - Return private transfer Rome airport – hotel in Florence - Visits with private guides: - HD Perugia walking tour (3 hours) - HD Assisi walking tour (2 hours) - HD Gubbio walking tour (2 hours) - HD Bevagna walking tour (2 hours) - Tastings with light lunches: - Wine tasting in Orvieto and light lunch in Orvieto (Day 2) - Olive tasting in Montefalco (Day 5) - Wine tasting and light lunch in Orvieto (Day 5) - Private car at disposal as per Itinerary - VAT

7 Day) Bevagna

The rates do not include:

After breakfast departure to Bevagna, precious medieval town surrounded by big, ancient walls. Start to discover this Umbria's treasure from the highest point of the city, close to Piazza Garibaldi, where you can see the church

Cities tax, travel insurance, admission fees,

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tips and anything not specifically mentioned in "The rates include".

Hotels 4*

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ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

SEASIDE

CAMPANIA, AMALFI AND SORRENTO COAST BREATH-TAKING “COSTIERA” 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrival at Naples airport and transfer to your hotel in Sorrento. This beautiful town is a favourite year round holiday destination. Even in Roman times, Sorrento was popular for its pleasant climate and charming atmosphere. It is perched on a cliff overlooking the magnificent Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.

Overnight in Sorrento Day 2) Departure for Positano, Ravello and Amalfi along the prettiest and most romantic coast of Italy. Enjoy some free time in Positano for shopping or just wander along its narrow streets. On to Amalfi to taste some limoncello liqueur and enjoy your lunch in front of the famous cathedral. In Ravello visit of the Villa Rufolo, where Richard Wagner found his inspiration for Parsifal. Return to Sorrento in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay.

rento in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4) Transfer to Naples. Check in at your hotel and then continue with a visit of the most important monuments of this colourful city, such as the Castello dell’Ovo, Galleria Umberto, San Carlo theatre and the Cathedral. We suggest to taste some true Italian pizza for lunch. Some free time to stroll along the famous streets of Spaccanapoli. Overnight stay.

Naples

Day 5) Transfer to Naples airport for return flight.

Day 3) Depart by boat for the Island of Capri. This small marvellous island offers lovely walks through its maze of streets with fashionable boutiques and smart restaurants. See the rocky coastline and remarkable caves formed around the island by the powerful sea. Return to Sor-

NET RATES FROM per person

hotel / Naples hotel by private car with

(min. 2 pax):

driver

Euro 1.150,00 per person in double

• Private transfer from Naples hotel to air-

INCLUSIONS:

• 1 private half day guided tour of Naples (3

port • 3 nights at 4* charming hotel in Sorrento Hotel type Grand Hotel Flora - Half board basis

hours) • 1 private full day excursion to Capri from Sorrento which includes: FD private guide

• 1 nights at 4*charming hotel in Naples - Bed & Breakfast Basis • Transfer from Naples airport / Sorrento

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(4 hours), return hydrofoil, private car tour of Capri.

• VAT

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CAMPANIA COAST - MEDITERRANEAN BREEZE SAILING TOUR 7 days | 6 nights At a glance: Be pampered on your own privately chartered sailing yacht and enjoy the best anchorages, beaches & water that Italy has to offer. Stop at destinations such as Capri, Ischia and Amalfi. Enjoy fresh sea air, relaxation and good food.

Discover the inlets, bays and sea caves, admire the breathtaking views from Ischia (the “green island”) and soak up the historical charm of Capri.

Destinations Capri: Enjoying the privilege of a very mild climate, marvellous natural beauty and excellent tourist facilities, Capri boasts a very active tourist industry, the main business of the island along with agriculture, fishery and handicraft. The island has large vineyards, olive-groves and orchards, and vegetables, citrus fruits and fresh fish, have always characterized the Capri cuisine.

Ischia: Situated in the Western part of the Bay of Naples, Ischia is the largest of the Neapolitan islands and one of the most attractive places around Naples, which is 17,5 miles away. It is of volcanic origin and

its present structure is the result of a complex geological evolution started in the Pliocene era. The first eruption, of Mount Corvo, occurred in 2200 BC, while the most recent one took place in 13011302 and caused the making of Molina Point, called Arso or Cremato.

The Amalfi Coast is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and it is renowned for its rugged terrain, scenic beauty, picturesque towns and diversity; every town has its own character and interesting sites. Amalfi is characterised by small fishermen’s dwellings and white-washed villas dug into the cliff. Here it is possible to enjoy a multitude of attractions, among which the enchanting small marina and colourful centre full of lively restaurants and shops. Best known for its dominant coastal views, Ravello is about 15 minutes drive upwards and inland from Amalfi.

Positano has an amazing structure, its buildings clinging in tiers to the rock face, the small houses, all huddled on top of each other. It is known all over the world for its breathtaking scenery, nice shops and romantic atmosphere.

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Naples

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 6 nights’ accommodation on board • Full board on board • English speaking skipper and hostess on board • Final cleaning • Linen • VAT

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SARDINIA - TURQUOISE BLISS, SEASIDE STAY 8 days | 7 nights

At a glance: Many travellers and writers have praised the beauty of the uncontaminated island of Sardinia, which is home to many unique species of flora and fauna and where traces of the ancient Nuragic civilization have been found.

Destination: The dazzling white of the limestone cliffs and the cobalt blue of the sea dominate this stretch of coastline.

Now a well established elite tourist destination, the Emerald Coast owes its transformation into playground of the rich and famous to Prince Aga Khan Karim who, on March 14th 1962 together with a

number of associate businessmen and owners of some 3,000 hectares of land, founded the Consortium of the Emerald Coast. There is no end to the places to explore, the scenery to photograph, the emotions to experience in this part of Northern Sardinia. From Porto Torres onwards we come across a succession of beautiful bays, hidden coves and splendid beaches.

Porto Cervo Olbia

Accommodation: charming 4* hotel located on the Northern part of the island, set in the scenic landscape and overlooking the turquoise waters.

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 7 night stay in 4* charming Hotel • Daily breakfast • 7 dinners at the hotel (drinks not included).

• Round trip private transfer from Olbia Airport to Hotel • VAT

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ITALIAN RIVIERA, LIGURIA ENCHANTING CINQUE TERRE 4 days | 3 nights Day 1) Arrival in La Spezia by train or car. At

face, with its houses piled up in a multi-

the train station you can join your 3 days

coloured mosaic overlooking the sea. Pro-

Cinque Terre Tour. Start by discovering the

ceed on to Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza

city of La Spezia situated in the unique mi-

and Monterosso which are the other four vil-

crocosm of the “Gulf of Poets”. The hillsides

lages of the five (Cinque)..

that surround the city are a marvellous place to go for a stroll. Well worth a visit are

La Spezia

Day 3) Today you can decide to continue your

the ancient villages of Biassa and Campiglia

visit of the villages and spend some time in

(10 minutes by taxi), true oases of tranquil-

Monterosso to enjoy its sandy beach and

lity and natural charm. You can also visit the

taste some local wine (you can have the wine

ancient parish church at Marinasco (10 min-

tasting on the day you prefer). Without doubt,

utes by taxi), which underwent restoration

the best way to discover the Cinque Terre is

in the 18th century. The La Spezia Museum

to visit them on foot. Along the paths and the

is also interesting.

centuries old flights of steps, which until recently were the only communication routes

PRICES On request

Day 2) Start journey by local train to discover

between the five villages, you are captivated

the National Park of the Cinque Terre, a lit-

by the magic of this landscape and its

tle corner of Liguria where generations have

panoramas suspended between sky and sea.

worked to create this monument in land-

An excursion by boat along the coast will give

scape architecture represented by the steep

you the opportunity to admire the breathtak-

• 1 local wine tasting in Monterosso

terraces sloping down to the sea. Held up by

ing landscape from a different viewpoint.

• The Cinque Terre Card (valid for 3 days).

over 7000 km of dry stonewalling, cleverly

INCLUSIONS: • 3 nights Hotel 4* in La Spezia area • Daily breakfast

It includes an unlimited number of train

built without any kind of cement, they are

Day 4) Before continuing your journey in

journeys along the stretch \ of La Spezia-

cultivated as vineyards that reach down to

Italy or returning home, don’t miss the op-

Levanto in 2nd class carriages, access to

almost touch the lapping waves. The Cinque

portunity to discover another pearl of the

1 \ the natural paths of the Park, a map of

Terre, recognised by UNESCO as a “World

Italian Riviera: Porto Venere with its charm-

the paths. (Please note: the five villages

Heritage Site”, are today a National Park

ing Genoese-style, which is another UN-

are situated between La Spezia and

and Protected Marine Area with the aim of

ESCO World Heritage Site. Portofino, in the

protecting this great cultural heritage. Start

Gulf of Tigullio, is another destination that

your visit in Riomaggiore clinging to the rock

should not be missed.

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Levanto) • VAT

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SICILY - WHITE AND RELAXING BEACHES 8 days | 7 nights

Day 1) Arrival in Syracuse, and transfer to the hotel. Check in and accommodation. In the afternoon visit the Archaeological Park of Syracuse. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Marzamemi, to spend the last days of the tour in the pristine beaches of the south eastern Sicily. Check in and accommodation.

Free dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2) After breakfast, transfer to the marine protected area of Plemmirio of Syracuse. Afternoon dedicated to the visit of Ortigia, an enchanting island of the Unesco heritage. Return to the hotel. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Day 6) After breakfast, free time to spend in the small fishing village, with chance to taste the typical products of tuna or make a boat trip (available during certain times of the year) underwater vision to see the seabed and Roman columns lying at a depth of about 6 meters. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3) After breakfast, departure for a relaxing morning in the white beach of Arenella, with a chance to go to the lido or free beach. In the afternoon we continue with the visit of Noto, capital of Sicilian Baroque art. Return to the hotel. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4) After breakfast, departure to reach the Natural Reserve and oasis Vendicari to spend the morning in one of the beautiful beaches of the reserve (Eloro, Marianelli, Calamosche). Return to the hotel. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5) After breakfast, free time for shopping. In the afternoon departure for

Day 7) After breakfast, departure for Portopalo, extreme southern tip of Sicily.

The day continues with a visit to the small paradise island of the Tides (isola delle Correnti): joined to the mainland by a strip of stone, the island is bordered by two seas and generously invested by the currents of the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Return to the hotel. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Syracuse

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 4 nights in 4* or 3* hotel in Syracuse • 3 nights in 4* or 3* hotel in Marzamemi • Daily breakfast • Transfers

Day 8) Breakfast and free time before the departure. Transfer to Syracuse station for the return.

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• Entrance fee to the Archaeological Park of Syracuse • VAT

SEASIDE PACKAGES 123

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

WELLNESS

LATIUM - FIUGGI WELLNESS STAY AT AMBASCIATORI HOTEL & SPA 2 days | 1 nights At a glance: Take a break away from the stress and tension of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the green countryside and experience a real sense of wellbeing.

This is the answer to all your prayers, the chance you were waiting for, to transform your short break into an unforgettable experience.

Destination: Fiuggi is an internationally famous thermal SPA resort and holiday centre. The Fiuggi SPA complex consists of two hydrothermal establishments: the Fonte Bonifacio VIII and the Fonte Anticolana. The medieval town of Fiuggi was probably built around the year 1000 AD. Fiuggi has lots of great shopping, and

plenty of good restaurants serving hearty local food.

Accommodation: Hotel Ambasciatori is the ideal place for an active holiday offering sports, recreation, culture and wellness for all travellers. The combination of culinary and cultural enjoyments, activity and relaxation offers you a variety of possibilities to arrange your holiday in the way that suits you best. The offer of sporting activities, the splendid Tangerine SPA, the natural oases in the area as well as its staggering cultural heritage, all of this together with the local hospitality make Fiuggi and the Hotel Ambasciatori the ideal holiday destination.

Rome

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 1 night at the hotel 4* in Fiuggi in double classic room on a Full Board basis • Entrance to the wellness centre “Tangerine Spa”, use of heated swimming pool, bio sauna, Turkish bath, frigidarium, experience showers, fitness centre. Use of towel, bathrobe and slippers • 10% discount on treatments • VAT and local taxes Note: Package not valid during Holidays

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WELLNESS PACKAGES 126

LATIUM - STIGLIANO WELLNESS STAY AT GRAND HOTEL DELLE TERME 3 days | 2 nights At a glance: Take a break away from the stress and tension of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the green countryside and experience a real sense of wellbeing.

This is the answer to all your prayers, the chance you were waiting for, to transform your short break into an unforgettable experience.

Destination: The first testimony of the existence of Stigliano dates back to the Etruscan period. In Roman times the waters were called “Thermae Stygyane”. Now, after so many centuries, the fame of Stigliano’s miraculous waters continues; having survived wars, invasions, pillage, changes of ownership and climate, they have maintained their strength and their

immeasurable benefits intact for all those who have had and will have the fortune to bathe there.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel delle Terme di Stigliano is situated in one of the most charming parts of Latium. The present-day structure was built in the 18th century on the ruins of a Roman temple.

Today, in keeping with its history, the hotel offers the tasteful and refined ambience of a noble palace while also providing all the comforts required by the modern traveller. You can completely relax, drink in hand, and enjoy the majestic landscapes which can be viewed from the immense terraces.

Rome

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 2 nights in hotel 4* in double classic room on Half Board basis • Use of thermal tub in the Olympus Wellness Centre; use of the thermal tub in the Spa and use of the swimming pool in Summer • Allocation of bathrobe and slippers in the room • Use of towel and sun bed at the hotel pool • Tea service at the Spa and in the room • 1 treatment per person which includes: “Source of Beauty” whirlpool Spa, Turkish bath and invigorating shower • VAT Note: Package not valid during Holidays

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WELLNESS PACKAGES 127

UMBRIA - TORGIANO (PERUGIA) WELLNESS STAY AT BORGO BRUFA RELAIS & SPA 3 days | 2 nights At a glance: Take a break away from the stress and tension of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the green countryside and experience a real sense of wellbeing.

This is the answer to all your prayers, the chance you were waiting for, to transform your short break into an unforgettable experience.

Destination: Umbria is known as Italy’s green heart. Rich in museums, castles and fortresses, modern and contemporary art, artistic and historical events: the secret of Umbria’s beauty lies in the bond that Umbrians have always had with their

rich and glorious past. Grapevines and olive trees leave an unmistakable mark on the hilly landscape.

Accommodation: Immersed in nature, among olive groves and vineyards, Relais Borgo Brufa is set on top of a hill dominating an incomparable 360-degree panorama, with magnificent views of Torgiano, Perugia, Assisi, Spello, Foligno and Spoleto. Perfectly integrated into the surrounding countryside, the Relais Borgo Brufa was designed to offer the utmost care and top-grade services to its guests.

Perugia

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 2 nights in hotel 4* in double room • 2 entrances per person to the Aquae-Term Spa • Daily Breakfast • 1 dinner for two with typical umbrian menu (drinks are not included) • VAT

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WELLNESS PACKAGES 128

UMBRIA - SAN MARTINO IN CAMPO (PERUGIA) WELLNESS STAY AT POSTA DEI DONINI 3 days | 2 nights At a glance: Take a break away from the stress and tension of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the green countryside and experience a real sense of wellbeing.

This is the answer to all your prayers, the chance you were waiting for, to transform your short break into an unforgettable experience.

Destination: San Martino in Campo is a beautiful town in the province of Perugia, in the region of Umbria, the green heart of Italy. Assisi, Todi and Torgiano are just some of the towns that make this region one of the most popular international tourist destinations. Nearby Lake Trasimeno and its

vacation spots are a paradise on earth and less than an hour from Perugia and the Alla Posta dei Donini luxury hotel.

Accommodation: In San Martino in Campo, near Perugia, the luxury hotel Alla Posta dei Donini provides exclusive comfort and excellent services. The magnificence of this Villa welcomes you to frescoed rooms, surrounded by over 20,000 square metres of the most extraordinary botanical park in central Italy.

In the heart of Umbria, a luxurious vacation awaits you in a lavish 17th century villa with its own pool, meeting rooms, restaurant and elegant rooms.

Perugia

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 2 nights in hotel 4* in double room - Bed and Breakfast basis • Entrance to the magnificent SPA with indoor salt-water swimming pool, massaging jets, whirlpool and relaxation room with chrome and music therapy and herbal tea corner • Access to the spa including per person with Turkish bath, sauna and calidarium • 2 dinners (drinks are not included) • VAT Note: Package not valid during Holidays

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WELLNESS PACKAGES 129

APULIA - SAVELLETRI DA FASANO (BRINDISI) WELLNESS STAY AT MASSERIA TORRE COCCARO 3 days | 2 nights At a glance: Take a break away from the stress and tension of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the green countryside and experience a real sense of wellbeing.

This is the answer to all your prayers, the chance you were waiting for, to transform your short break into an unforgettable experience. Enjoy an exclusive experience in a secluded place away from the crowds in a refined atmosphere, immersed in nature among secular olives and wonderful vines producing the superlative white “Regina” grape.

Destination: The Masseria Torre Coccaro, 5 stars luxury hotel resort in Puglia, is a country house dating back to the 16th century.

Set in a vast estate immersed in olive groves

overlooking the sea this luxury hotel blends into the country environment with secluded spots all around the property: the old vegetable garden, the olive groves, more than 800 years old, the walking path through the olive groves to Maizza, the Olive Mill set in an ancient cave, the old haylofts with fireplaces, each detail aimed at guaranteeing total relaxation.

Accommodation: In the AVEDA SPA, set in an atmospheric rock with views of the olive trees, natural materials such as wood, rice paper and flagstones are used. There is a large high-tech gym, indoor pool, whirlpool and Turkish bath with eucalyptus oil. Here, you will enjoy a wonderful traditional Ayurvedica massage.

Brindisi

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 3 nights in 5* masseria in superior double room - Bed and Breakfast basis • 1 traditional Ayurvedica massage

• VAT

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WELLNESS PACKAGES 130

SICILY - SCIACCA (AGRIGENTO) WELLNESS STAY VERDURA GOLF & SPA RESORT 3 days | 2 nights At a glance: After a satisfying game of golf, treat yourself to a relaxing day in the hotel spa. Choose from a range of special treatments including traditional or oriental massage, stone therapy and much more. There is also a gym and indoor thermal pool.

Destination: Sicily is an island of vivid colours, with glorious blue skies overhead and the clear turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sparkling in the sunlight.

Accommodation: The Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is Europe’s most exciting new resort and one of the most advanced luxury wellness centres. Set across 230 hectares of olive groves and countryside and situated on a hidden stretch of Sicily’s sundrenched shores, the property is lucky enough to have 1.8 km of coastline. Here you will enjoy a wonderful relaxing massage.

Agrigento

PRICES On request INCLUSIONS: • 2 nights in 5* Hotel in double superior deluxe room - Bed and Breakfast basis • 1 Relaxing Massage • Round trip transfer from airport by private car with driver • VAT

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WELLNESS PACKAGES 131

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

ECO AND SPORT

GREEN AND GOLD TUSCANY - WALKING TOUR 3 days | 2 nights Day 1) Arrival and transfer to your hotel in Tuscany’s countryside, check in and dinner.

Day 2) Sant’Antimo to Montalcino (910km, slope 300m. easy walk). On arrival in Sant’Antimo visit the beautiful Romanesque abbey. Then we will start our walk. From the vineyards and olive groves around the Abbey, walk towards the holm oak wood that cover the hills between the Abbey and Montalcino. From the meadows on the top of the hill, enjoy outstanding views of the Val d’Orcia and the extinct volcano of Monte Amiata (1700m, located south of Sant’Antimo). Return to hotel for dinner.

PRICES

On request

Day 3) Montepulciano - Pienza (15km, slope 490m. medium difficulty walk). This walk is interesting for its varied landscape: from Montepulciano to Monticchiello walk through countryside with olive groves, vineyards. walnut and fig trees and through typical Mediterranean woods, with holm oaks, heather and broom. From Monticchiello to Pienza walk along the ‘balcony’ of the Val d’Orcia, a valley among beautiful rolling hills, framed by wheat fields, and occasional dark green pinnacles of cypress. Upon arrival, time to explore Pienza famous for its pecorino cheese. Return to the hotel for dinner.

Siena

Day 4) Departure.

INCLUSIONS:

Options:

• 3 nights in your selected hotel in Tuscany’s

• Transfer from Rome Fiumicino airport to

countryside

your hotel in Tuscany’s countryside Euro 442

• Half Board basis

per car, OW

• Guide services:

• Transfer from train station in Siena to your

• Full day Montepulciano - Pienza (15km, slope 490m)

hotel in Tuscany’s countryside Euro 267 per car, OW

• Full day Full day Sant’Antimo to Montalcino (9-10km, slope 300 m) • VAT

• Transfer from train station in Florence to your hotel in Tuscany’s countryside Euro 209 per car, OW

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ECO AND SPORT PACKAGES 133

CAMPANIA, AMALFI COAST & CAPRI ON THE TREK OF GIANT, WALKING TOUR 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrive in Rome and transfer to your hotel in Sorrento by car. Free time and dinner.

Day 2) The Valley of the Giant (Hiking distance: 4.5km, slope: 264m). Transfer to Mount Vesuvius for a spectacular hike around the summit and through the Valley of the Giant, mount Somma. Return to the hotel for dinner.

Anacapri. Descent in Anacapri by funicular. Afternoon at leisure to relax on the island. Back to Sorrento by ferry boat, arrival at the port, own transfer to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4) Ravello to Amalfi: Walk of the Mills (Hiking distance: 7km, slope: 88m). Today transfer to Ravello, one of the most popular towns on the Amalfi coast. The sunny climate of this coast has appealed for centuries to writers, artists, and dreamers.

Boccaccio, D. H. Lawrence, and German composer Richard Wagner are among the famous people who have called this area home. Hike from Ravello to Scala and on to Amalfi. Return to hotel and dinner.

Naples

Day 3) Visit Capri, hike to Mount Solaro (Hiking distance: 7-11.5km, slope: 50290m). Board the ferry to Capri. Upon arrival take the funicular from Marina Grande to Capri and hike the mountain that forms the backbone of the island.

Climb to Mount Solaro the highest point on Capri island. The views are spectacular and include Vesuvius, Capri and

Day 5) Transfer to Rome airport for departure.

PRICES

INCLUSIONS:

• Transports:

On request

• 4 nights in your selected hotel in Sorrento -

• Rome airport/Sorrento/Rome airport

Bed and Breakfast basis

• Private car at disposal for day 2 and day 4

• 4 dinners (drinks not included)

• Ferry Sorrento - Capri - Sorrento

• Guide services:

• Funicular in Capri (return ticket)

• Full day Vesuvius, the Valley of the Giant

• VAT

• Full day Capri, Hike to Mount Solaro • Full day Walk of the Mills • Entrance fees to the crater of the Vesuvius

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ECO AND SPORT PACKAGES 134

LOMBARDY, GARDA LAKE GOLF HEAVEN 4 days | 3 nights At a glance: After a satisfying game of golf, treat yourself to a relaxing day in the hotel spa. Choose from a range of special treatments including traditional or oriental massage, stone therapy and much more. There is also a gym and indoor thermal pool.

It is undoubtedly the most popular lake, regardless of travellers’ age and origin.

Destination: Garda, the largest of the prealpine lakes, is bordered by three regions: Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino. The upper basin is wedged in a mountain setting that is an amphitheatre of low hills covered with vineyards and olive groves.

Accommodation: 5* Palazzo Arzaga Hotel SPA & Golf Resort is the last word in elegance and comfort. Located 30 minutes from Verona, beside Lake Garda and the Alps, Palazzo Arzaga is the finest golf resort in Northern Italy offering golfing and leisure vacations at one of the top luxury hotels in Europe. The hotel also features a wide range of treatments focused on wellness, relaxation, weight loss, fitness and beauty - all tailor-made to your needs.

PRICES

INCLUSIONS:

On request

Milan

Garda

• 3 nights in hotel 5* - Bed and Breakfast basis • Round trip transfer from Milan airport to hotel • 2 green fees at the hotel 18 hole golf course • VAT

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ECO AND SPORT PACKAGES 135

SICILY, ETNA, ALCANTARA & NEBRODI NATURAL PARKS 5 days | 4 nights Day 1) Arrival at Catania airport and transfer to the hotel. Check in and accommodation. In the afternoon visit of the city center with the possibility of shopping along the Via Etna. Free time and dinner.

Day 2) After breakfast, excursion to the Alcantara Natural Park, characterized by beautiful gorges created by a flow of basaltic lava. In the afternoon departure to Taormina, for a visit of the historic center. Return to the hotel. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4) After breakfast, depart for a full day at the Nebrodi Natural Park, an huge natural area to explore by foot or by bike.

Free lunch. Return to hotel and overnight stay.

Day 5) Breakfast and free time to visit the town, go shopping and enjoy the delicious iced pistachio, one of the many delicacies prepared with the fine ingredient. Free lunch. Transfer to the Catania for return flight.

Day 3) After breakfast, transfer to the Etna Natural Park, where you can enjoy the fascinating experience of reaching 2900mt. high by cable car, and admire the fantastic landscapes of the highest volcano of Europe. In the afternoon transfer to Bronte, “City of Pistachio” on the western slopes of Etna. Check in and accommodation. Free dinner and overnight stay.

Catania

PRICES On request

INCLUSIONS: • 2 nights in 4* or 3* hotel in Catania • 2 nights in 4* or 3* hotel in Bronte • BB basis • Transfers • Entrance fee to the Etna Natural Park • VAT

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ECO AND SPORT PACKAGES 136

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

FASHION

MILAN - ART, FASHION AND NATURE 4 days | 3 nights Day 1) For those with little time who want to sample the “best” that Milan has to offer, we suggest this itinerary that includes art and culture, nature and shopping. Upon arrival, transfer by private car to your hotel in the centre of the city. Day at leisure. Enjoy the city on your own, you can walk through lush Sempione Park, Milan's green lung with its delightful lakes.

Dinner free. Overnight stay.

Day 2) After breakfast, meeting at your hotel with your private guide for a city tour of Milan. Walk the streets of Milan with your English speaking guide and discover many of the monuments and museums Milan has to offer.

This is a great way for first time visitors and new arrivals to find their orientation within the city while beginning to explore Milan's rich history and heritage. Lunch and dinner free. Overnight in Milan.

unique in the world for its elegance and the names of the stores that line it: from here, you can reach the adjacent Via Borgospesso, Via del Gesù and Via Sant’Andrea where the antique shops are clustered.

At Via Santo Spirito no. 10, you will find the neorenaissance façade of the Bagatti Valsecchi museum-home, one of the jewels of Milan's museum scene. From here, you are just a stone's throw from the very elegant Via della Spiga where you will fall under the spell of its shop windows.

From Via della Spiga, walk back up Via Manzoni towards Piazza della Scala, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and Piazza Duomo. Leaving the Galleria behind you, cross the square on the right and you will come to the lovely Via Mercanti that runs alongside the splendid Piazza Mercanti. Continuing on, you will come, first, to Piazza Cordusio and then to Via Dante, an elegant pedestrian mall that leads to the Sforza Castle, home of the Civic Museums where our itinerary ends.

Day 3) Today, you can finally enter the heart of Milan's fashion district: Via Montenapoleone,

Day 4) Today private transfer to the Malpensa Airport for your return flight.

NET RATES FROM: 4* Hotel as Hotel Enterprise or similar Euro 560,00 per person in double occupancy Euro 949,00 in single room

3* Hotel as Hotel Ibis Milano Centro or similar Euro 520,00 per person in double occupancy Euro 870,00 in single room

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Milan

INCLUSIONS: • 3 nights in your selected centrally located hotel • daily breakfast • private transfer on arrival and departure • 3 hours private guide • VAT

FASHION 138

ROME - SHOPPING TOUR 3 days | 2 nights Day 1) Upon arrival, transfer by private car to your hotel in Rome. Day at leisure.

Enjoy the city on your own. See Via Veneto, centre of La Dolce Vita, Piazza Barberini, to view Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Triton Fountain. Then Piazza di Spagna, the shopping streets of Via dei Condotti, Via del Corso, Via del Babuino. Next up is Piazza Venezia and the gigantic Vittoriano.

Lunch and dinner free. Overnight stay.

open-air museum, is something more, an incomparable and unique city. Luxury hotels, art galleries, tourist itineraries, tailor made services and exclusive shopping tours. Shopping with a “personal shopper” who will bring you in the most exclusive boutiques of the “Caput Mundi”.

Afternoon at leisure to relax after a hard day of shopping. Lunch and dinner free.

Overnight stay.

Day 2) Morning dedicated to the shopping.

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rome is not only an

Day 3) After the breakfast in your hotel, private transfer to Rome Airport for your return flight.

NET RATES FROM:

High season Euro 426,00 per person in double occupancy Euro 816,00 in single room

4* Hotel as Hotel Ariston or similar Low season Euro 407,00 per person in double occupancy Euro 779,00 in single room

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Rome

INCLUSIONS: • 2 nights in your centrally located Hotel • daily breakfast • private transfer on arrival and departure • 3 hours private shopper • VAT

FASHION 139

FLORENCE AND THE MALL OUTLET 4 days | 3 nights Day 1 –Upon arrival at Florence airport private transfer to your hotel in Florence. Rest of the day at leisure. Lunch and Dinner on own. Overnight.

Day 2 – After your breakfast, morning dedicated to exploring Florence with your private guide. A walking tour to Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, the elegant palaces and fashionable shops, the impressive cathedral square with Brunelleschi’s imposing dome will all be the focus of your pleasant slowly paced tour ending at the Uffizi Gallery. The Gallery entirely occupies the first and second floors of the large building constructed between 1560 and 1580 and designed by Giorgio Vasari. It is famous worldwide for its outstanding collections of ancient sculptures and paintings (from the Middle Ages to the Modern period). The collections of paintings from

RATES ON REQUEST INCLUSIONS: • 3 nights’ accommodation in the selected hotel category • Daily breakfasts • Private transfer on arrival and departure • 1 half day guided service in Florence (1 hour walking tour of Florence, 2 hours at the Uffizi) • Entrance fee to the Uffizi Gallery (skip the line)

the 14th-century and Renaissance period include some absolute masterpieces: Giotto, Simone Martini, Piero della Francesca, Beato Angelico, Filippo Lippi, Botticelli, Mantegna, Correggio, Leonardo, Raffaello, Michelangelo and Caravaggio, in addition to many precious works by European painters (mainly German, Dutch and Flemish).

Afternoon at leisure for additional cultural visits or for shopping in the famous Leather Market. Lunch and dinner on own. Overnight.

Day 3 – Spend a full day at the Mall Outlet: Gucci, Valentino, Fendi, Salvatore Ferragamo, Giorgio Armani and many more. Great bargains in designer clothes and accessories can be found there. The Mall Firenze is the ideal destination for those who love fashion, beauty and style. The world’s most exclusive brands in a charming setting that is truly one

• 1 full day excursion to the Mall Outlet (8 hours) • Car at disposal to the Mall Outlet (8 hours) • VAT 10% SUPPLEMENT/S: Deluxe Exclusive car: • Transfer on arrival and departure: Euro 250,00 per car, OW • Car for the Mall outlet (8 hours): Euro 400,00 per car

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Florence

of a kind; an open, next-generation luxury outlet, filled with light and set in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Back to your hotel.

Lunch and Dinner on own. Overnight.

Day 4 – Breakfast, check-out and private transfer to Florence airport for your return flight.

PACKAGE’S NOTES: • During fairs and exhibitions, rates on request • Accommodation taxes are not included and are to be paid locally by the customers • VAT percentage could be revised by Italian Government and the above rates could be revised accordingly.

ART CITY BREAKS 140

ON THE TRACKS OF THE “DOLCE VITA” 3 days | 2 nights A JOURNEY THROUGH ANCIENT ATELIERS AND FORGOTTEN PLACES, VIEWING ARCHIVES WHICH RECREATE THE GLAMOUR FROM THE “DOLCE VITA” YEARS.

The expression “Dolce vita” refers to the period between the late ‘50’s and the early ‘60’s, and in particular the trends which emerged in the city of Rome at the time. A lifestyle that made the Rome of the ’50’s famous worldwide. In the late ‘50’s Rome was a lively city which had recovered from the horrors of World War II. These were the years of the economic boom and Rome began to attract some famous personalities which made the eternal city the Capital of the world.

Thanks to the success of his film ‘La Dolce Vita’ Federico Fellini, Film director

was the most prominent personality was captured the lifestyle that characterised Rome in those years famous throughout the world. It is often believed that the beginning of the ‘Dolce vita’ coincided with a party held at the Rugantino restaurant along the Trastevere district. It was November 5th 1958 and the Countess Olghina di Robilant was celebrating her 25th birthday at the restaurant with a selection of high society personalities and reporters, photographers, along with movie celebrities - who were the soul of parties in those years. At the end of the

Rome

evening, the Turkish dancer Aiché Nana performed a strip-tease and her photographs published photos in ‘The Espresso’ magazine which scandalised the capital. The heart of the ‘Dolce vita’ was the Via Veneto, the famous street of the capital this was where the most exclusive and talked-about parties were held.

In the surrounding splendid dwellings there were always crowds of

discover the romantic view of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Circo Massimo and the Trevi Fountain. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

Day 2) ROME

paparazzi who tried to photograph Italian and international movie stars who would stroll along the street. La ‘Dolce Vita’ is still present and is part of the hidden soul of the city. The itinerary winds through the various landmarks, historic ancient hideaways, forgotten places and archives of time to recreate the glamour and magic from those years.

PROTAGONISTS

Albertina The brand was established in Rome in 1952 by Albertina Giubbolini. Thanks to her skill in creating fashionable, woolthread, the Albertina, knitwear makes its debut in haute couture. Defined the “Coco Chanel of tricot”, Albertina has exported her garments all over the world.

Still tooday some of her models are considered masterpieces of creativity applied to knitwear, and are also found in some of the most important museums in the world.

Albanese In 1950 Enzo Albanese opened his first shoe shop in Rome in the heart of the streets of the Dolce Vita. Albanese was a great creator: he invented the stiletto heel, later reproduced by dozens of shoe designers, the compass heel, the Hulahop heel, the heel with a solid gold watch and dozens of other creative footwear.

The Albanese historical archive includes over 1,000 original models and Albanese’s shoes are still exhibited around the world in some of the most important International museums.

Atelier Fontana Sorelle Fontana Alta Moda is a fashion house specialised in high fashion sartorial productions first established in Rome in 1943 by the three designer sisters Zoe, Micol and Giovanna. The three designers, having a special creative talent, dressed the most elegant stars of the time, such as Liz Taylor, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, with their creations. The dress worn by Anita Ekberg in the movie “La dolce vita” when she bathes in the Trevi Fountain is theirs too.

Giuseppe Marini - a true artist of custommade shoes, extremely sought-after among personalities of the world’s politicians, high finance and show business - he began making bespoke shoes back in 1899. Amongst his most regular customers include the late Marcello Mastroianni.

Day 3) ROME After breakfast, transfer by private car to the Museo Boncompagni Ludovisi , the museum of the arts, the Costume and Fashion from the 19th and 20th centuries, the museum hosts around 800 pieces of clothing and accessories which illustrate in particularl the history of Italian Fashion.

After the guided visit (1 hour) of the museum, return to the hotel for check-out collection of baggage and transfer by private car with assistance to Roma Fiumicino or Ciampino International Airports for your return flight.

NET RATES FROM: On request Inclusions: • Guided Tour of the Rome By Night • 2 nights accommodation in luxury hotel in double deluxe room with breakfast

Day 1) ROME Marini

A buffet breakfast is served in the hotel’s restaurant or if guests prefer, this can be taken in their room. Morning dedicated to the guided tour of the historic(al) ateliers and forgotten places of the ‘Dolce Vita’ years. The afternoon comprises of being accompanied by a personal shopper along the most famous shopping streets of the capital, such as the Via Condotti, Via Frattina, Via del Babuino, Via Borgognona and the Via del Corso.

Dinner in one of our suggested glamorous restaurants. Overnight stay.

You will be met at Roma Fiumicino or Ciampino International Airport and transferred by private car with assistance and accompanied to your 5* hotel in Rome. Accommodation in a double deluxe room with some leisure free time at disposal. Dinner in one of our suggested glamorous restaurants and departure at 21.00 for a Rome By Night Tour, to

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• Private assistance at disposal • Private car at disposal • Guided tour of the historical ateliers of the ‘Dolce Vita’ years • Guided visit of the Museo Boncompagni Ludovisi • 2 dinners in each of our suggested glamorous restaurants • VAT

FASHION 142

THE ARTISANS OF OSCAR WINNING OUTFITS 3 days | 2 nights THE EXCLUSIVE TOUR ENCOMPASSES THE HISTORIC SARTORIAL ATELIERS THAT HAVE PRODUCED COSTUMES WORN OSCAR WINNING FILMS, SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT AND STRIKING OUTFITS FROM COLLECTIONS OF THE 1950’S ARE ON DISPLAY AND IT IS POSSIBLE TO TALK TO THE ARTISANS WHO HAVE PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN CREATING THE HISTORY OF ITALIAN FILM. THE ITINERARY TAKES US TO TWO HISTORICAL FASHION HOUSES IN ROME THAT MADE THE COSTUMES FOR THE OSCAR-WINNING FILMS OF LUCHINO VISCONTI, FEDERICO FELLINI, PIER PAOLO PASOLINI AND MAJOR INTERNATIONAL DIRECTORS TOO. PROTAGONISTS Annamode The atelier of the Allegri sisters was established immediately after the war by Anna Allegri, at the time a twenty-five year old lady of the Florentine bourgeoisie, who through her sartorial inventions and engaging charm in a few years succeeded in winning over the fashionable ladies of

Rome and later the costume designers working in the renascent Italian cinema, centred on Neorealism. Among the major European film and theatre dressmakers, Annamode is the one that has best embodied the Hamlet-like dualism between fashion and costumes: it succeeded in skilfully bringing together two souls, combining fashion and highfashion work with show business work.

Rome

Farani In September 1962, Piero Farani opened his workshop in the Prati neighbourhood, supported by costume-designer Danilo Donati. During the ‘60’s Donati worked with Pasolini, Zeffirelli and Fellini; films that made history and in which Donati and Farani revolutionised the traditional rules of costume-making, trying out new techniques, using unusual materials and

simply inventing. During the ‘70’s the workshop opted for theatre and opera and started to work with the major opera theatres, such as the Metropolitan, Covent Garden and the Paris Opera Following the passing away of Piero Farani in 1997, Luigi Piccolo has taken over the helm of the dress-making house definitely and veered towards the historical reconstruction of costumes, although he has kept up the tradition of experimenting.

Tirelli Costumi Umberto Tirelli opened his tailoring in November 1964 with two sewing machines, five seamstresses, a milliner, a secretary and a driver-warehouseman.

After the first show (a "Tosca" designed by Anna Anni and directed by Mauro Bolognini, the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma), in the first year of the Tirelli designed the costumes for three great dramas: "Three Sisters" and "the party game" designed by Pier Luigi Pizzi directed by Giorgio De Lullo, and "the Cherry Orchard" designed by Ferdinand Scarfiotti directed by Luchino Visconti.

Since then, Tirelli has done nothing but grow. Its activities are mainly developed in two different directions and complementary: the one drawn from the career of Pier Luigi Pizzi, and dotted designed costumes for the theatre of drama and opera, mainly (but not only) in the name of the invention and imagination; and that drawn from the career of Piero Tosi, who is devoted to preference (but not only) in the cinema, in the philological reconstruction.

The Tirelli Costumes has designed the costumes for famous movies and shows, including the costumes of almost all the films of Luchino Visconti (designed by Piero Tosi).

Gioielleria Atelier Percossi Papi Percossi Papi has created his jewels in a small atelier near the Pantheon, in the heart of ancient Rome, since 1968.

By continuing and elaborating on the tradition of enamels, over the course of years, he created an unmistakable style and school in the goldsmith’s art, where creativity, shape, colour and materials become the protagonists. His creations

bring to mind the perfumes and colours of the Mediterranean and the forms of Roman baroque architecture in a kaleidoscope of contrasts between light and shadows. For several years now the creative contribution of his sons Valeria and Giuliano expands and innovates Diego Percossi Papi’s design, while his wife Maria Teresa assists with her organizational support.

Percossi Papi also designs and produces jewels for many films, some of which have won international prizes for their costumes.

Some of the films his work has been used in are: “Rossini! Rossini!” (Directed by Mario Monicelli, starring Philippe Noiret and Jacqueline Bisset) “The Elective Affinities” (directed by Paolo and Vittorio Taviani, starring Isabelle Huppert) “Francesca e Nunziata” (directed by Lina Wertmüller, starring Sophie Loren) “Alatriste” (directed by Augustìn Dìaz Yanes, starring Viggo Mortensen) “Luisa Sanfelice” (directed by Paolo and Vittorio Taviani, starring Laetitia Casta) “Elizabeth: The Golden Age” (directed by Shekhar Kapur, starring Cate Blanchett) Oscar Prize winner for Best Costumes and many more…

Oscar winning films were produced.

In the afternoon you will be accompanied by a personal shopper along the most famous shopping streets of the capital, like Via Condotti, Via Frattina, Via del Babuino, Via Borgognona and Via del Corso. Overnight stay.

Day 3) ROME After breakfast, transfer by private car to the Museo Boncompagni Ludovisi, the museum of the arts, the Costume and Fashion in the nineteenth and twentieth century, that hosts about eight hundred pieces of clothing and accessories that illustrate particularly the history of the Italian Fashion.

Balance of the day at your leisure.

End of Services.

Day 1) ROME You will be met at Rome Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and transferred by private car and assistance to your luxury Hotel located in the heart of the Eternal City. Check-in and accommodation in double deluxe room. Guests can capture the spirit of ‘La Dolce Vita’ and enjoy the comfort and your luxury hotel. Time at disposal. Tonight you will experience a Rome by night Tour, to discover the romantic view of the Coliseum, the Roman Forum, the Circo Massimo and the Trevi Fountain. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

NET RATES FROM: On request Inclusions: • 2 nights’ accommodation in double deluxe room (Suite upon request) in luxury hotels • Daily buffet breakfast • Welcome drink on arrival • Private assistance at disposal • Private car at disposal • Private guided visit of Rome By Night • Guided tour of the historic (al) ateliers where the Oscar-winning costumes were created

Day 2) ROME

• Guided visit of the Museo Boncompagni

A buffet breakfast is served in the hotel restaurant. Morning dedicated to the guided tour of the historic sartorial ateliers, where some costumes worn in

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Ludovisi (1 hour) • Private transfers on arrival and departure • VAT

FASHION 144

THE REBIRTH OF CONTEMPORARY HANDICRAFT 3 days | 2 nights AN ADVENTURE TO DISCOVER JEWELLERY, FURNITURE AND A VARIETY OF COLLECTOR’S ITEMS THROUGH THE FASCINATING ALLEYWAYS OF MONTI AWAITS YOU. A MIX OF OLD AND NEW, ANTIQUE AND MORE MODERN PIECES BLENDING TOGETHER INTO WHAT CHARACTERISES ROME’S “MELTING POT”

Monti is the oldest quarter in Rome and bears this name because once it used to comprise the Esquiline, Viminal, part of the Quirinal and the Caelian hills. It is the oldest district in Rome preserving Roman, medieval, Renaissance and Baroque testimonies, a succession of styles covering 2500 years of history. The life of Monti is that of the artisans who over the years have never ceased to populate the

quarter. In the suggestive atmosphere which the district still retains, just a few steps away from the Colosseum, there are innumerable workshops, independent boutiques, art galleries, home galleries, restaurants and historical sites to visit.

Handicraft in the Monti quarter has its strength in dress-making, but there are also the workshops of artisans selling hand-made accessories. Fashion, vintage,

Rome

furniture and modern antiques sharing a common idea: differentiating themselves by going back to craftwork, the culture of quality and friendly relations with customers. The itinerary comprises young artisans and artists who have found their ideal dimension in the Monti quarter to create and experiment, evidencing that Italian handicraft talent is not limited to famous brands.

Day 2) ROME A buffet breakfast is served in the hotel restaurant or if guests prefer, can be taken in their room. Morning dedicated to the guided tour of the artisans’ workshops and boutiques and of some little art galleries in the suggestive atmosphere of the quarter Monti.

In the afternoon you will be accompanied by a personal shopper along the most famous shopping streets of the capital, like Via Condotti, Via Frattina, Via del Babuino, Via Borgognona and Via del Corso.

Dinner in one of our suggested glamorous restaurants. Overnight stay.

Day 3) ROME

PROTAGONISTS Le Gallinelle Wilma Silvestri is the founder of “Le Gallinelle”, a passionate seeker of vintage clothing in markets throughout the world, who learned to sew as a girl, producing her own clothes by recycling old dresses of the ’40’s. In addition to her own line “Le Gallinelle”, she has presented the “EXPRESS CLOTHING” project, i.e. over 20 models that can be made to measure using the fabric chosen by the customer in a short time.

NeóShop NeóShop is a new design shop specialising in bags and jewels made of Neoprene.

Neoshop is actually a neoprene art gallery in the heart of Rome

Argentia Each jewel is the product of the development of an exclusive design. Unique pieces, ancient-style (Etruscan, Egyptian or Roman) or absolutely contemporary jewels can be custom-made. Unique creations that can be used in cinema, theatre and special events.

Co.Ro. The Co.Ro. jewels are a harmonious blend of rationalism and classical tradition. They

inspire metaphysical impressions through the world of geometry and the study of new dimensional relations. The designers, Costanza De Cecco e Giulia Giannini, are two architects. The method use to create each jewel starts from research focusing on space and produces volumes and shapes that recall the structural geometry of worlds closed in minimal dimensions. The jewels are often inspired by architectures, buildings tied to the collective imagination and archetypes of the most disparate ages and of varying nature. From Mediterranean houses to temples and industrial works, reelaborated with a touch of irony through a game of leaps in scale and function, from spaces for living to architecture for dressing.

After breakfast, transfer by private car to the Museo Boncompagni Ludovisi , the museum of the arts, the Costume and Fashion in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, that hosts about eight hundred pieces of clothing and accessories that illustrate particularly the history of the Italian Fashion. After the guided visit (h 1.oo) of the museum, return to the hotel, check out an transfer by private car and assistance to Roma Fiumicino or Ciampino International Airports for your return flight.

NET RATES FROM: On request Inclusions: • Guided Tour of the Rome By Night

Day 1) ROME You will be met at Roma Fiumicino or Ciampino International Airports and transferred by your private car and assistance to your 5* hotel in Rome.

Check - in and accommodation in double deluxe room. Time at disposal. Dinner in one of our suggested glamorous restaurants and departure at 21.00 for a Rome By Night Tour, to discover the romantic view of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Circo Massimo and the Trevi Fountain. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

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• 2 nights accommodation in luxury hotel in double deluxe room with breakfast • Private assistance at disposal • Private car at disposal • Guided tour of the historic(al) artisans’ workshops and boutiques of the quarter Monti • Guided visit of the Museo Boncompagni Ludovisi • 2 dinners in two of our suggested glamorous restaurants • VAT

FASHION 146

‘NAPLES - PIZZA, SFOGLIATELLE AND... FASHION 4 days | 3 nights OVERLOOKING THE SEA, LIKE A SIREN, NAPLES HAS ALWAYS BEEN ENCHANTING AND ENCHANTS EVERYONE. PERHAPS IT IS SOMETIMES DIFFICULT TO UNDERSTAND IT, BUT NOBODY IS IMMUNE TO THE CHARM OF THIS CITY, WITH ITS HISTORY, FOLKLORE, ART, MUSIC, GOOD FOOD, AND - LAST BUT NOT LEAST - ITS SARTORIAL TRADITION. THE CAPITAL OF CAMPANIA WAS, AND STILL IS, THE PLACE OF BIRTH AND TRAINING OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TAILORS IN ITALY. IT IS NO SURPRISE, THEN, THAT EVEN THE NEW YORK TIMES, IN 2014, AND THE FINANCIAL TIMES, IN 2015, WERE INTERESTED IN NEAPOLITAN TAILORING AND ITS ANCIENT TRADITION. PROTAGONISTS Mario Valentino The Mario Valentino brand was founded in 1952 in Naples, even if already in the early twentieth century in the father of Mario, Vincenzo Valentino, had made the first Valentino designer shoes, which were much appreciated, even by many famous people, first among all the king Vittorio Emanuele II. Returning to Mario instead,

the creation of the brand and the construction of the factory in Naples in 1956 were a happy intuition, which led him to dress many characters of the star system. Among the many we mention Naomi Campbell, Liz Taylor, Jackie Kennedy, Marcello Mastroianni and the twins Kessler. In addition, Mario Valentino is referred to by many as the creator of the stiletto heel and the moccasin for women.

Naples

Mariano Rubinacci The beginning of the sartorial activity of Rubinacci dates back to the first half of the nineteenth century, in a small shop near the Maschio Angioino, when Mariano's great-grandfather began to trade silks with the East. Later his son Gennaro opened a boutique in the centre of Naples, the London House, which soon became one of the favourite destinations of famous

people such as De Sica and Eduardo De Filippo. Even today, Rubinacci wears the most elegant men in Italy, and his name appears on the major fashion magazines, as a symbol of Neapolitan elegance and tradition.

Isaia Napoli The birth of the brand dates back to 1920, thanks to the intuition of Enrico Isaia, who opened a fabric shop, later joined by a workshop where expert tailors made men's suits. In 1957 Enrico's sons decided to move the production to Casalnuovo, just outside Naples. But it is in the 80s that the real process of industrialization of the brand begins, which sees its success grow more and more. It is the period of large distributions in Europe, America and then in Asia. The strong point of the company is, even today, the strong attachment to its roots and to its city, Naples. Even the Isaia’s man must reflect Naples: he must be passionate, irreverent and elegant.

Day 1) NAPLES You will be met at Naples Capodichino International Airport and transferred by private car to your centrally located hotel.

Check-in and time to settle in. Balance of the day at leisure. One of the liveliest and most sparkling cities in the world with its colours and its many historical, artistic and cultural beauties, Naples is a significant milestone for those planning to visit the main points of interest in Italy.

Start immediately to immerse yourself in the Neapolitan atmosphere, enjoying a coffee, one of the must of Naples you should not miss, at the Gran Caffè Gambrinus. Situated on the edge of the Piazza del Plebiscito, Gran Caffè Gambrinus is one of Naples’ most historic and prestigious coffee shops. A favourite haunt of writers, poets and musicians around the late 1800s and 1900s, the décor evokes the glamour of the Belle Epoque. First timers should order espresso and a classic sfogliatella, then sample as many other Neapolitan pastries as possible. Overnight stay.

Day 2) NAPLES Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Day dedicated to the guided tour of the

historic sartorial ateliers accompanied by a personal shopper along the most famous shopping streets of the city.

Riviera di Chiaia is the exclusive shopping area of Naples. This is where most of the boutiques and shops of the world's leading high fashion brands are concentrated. Between Via Poerio, Piazza dei Martiri, Via Calabritto, Via dei Mille and Via Filangieri, the windows of Valentino, Armani, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bulgari and Cartier alternate. Alongside these sacred cow of fashion, however, in the Riviera di Chiaia area it is still possible to meet some historical names of the Neapolitan sartorial tradition (Ferragamo is from Naples): artisan workshops able to create unique and tailor-made pieces.

One more reason to walk and look at the windows of the Riviera, even if you cannot make purchases, is its position: overlooking the Gulf of Naples, makes an unforgettable afternoon of shopping.

Overnight stay.

streets and monuments. At the end of your day you cannot miss a stop to taste the typical product par excellence of Naples, the famous Neapolitan pizza become an indisputable symbol of the city.

We suggest Gino Sorbillo, always crowded by both locals and visitors, which is definitely one of the best choices, ready to satisfy your expectations. Overnight stay.

Day 4) NAPLES If you wish to venture even in the most hidden parts of the city, the Underground Naples and the Galleria Borbonica are the suitable routes for you, as you enter the city's underground you can discover the ancient Roman aqueduct, the antiaircraft shelters of the Second World War, vintage vehicles and the famous War Museum.

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NET RATES FROM: On request Inclusions:

Day 3) NAPLES After breakfast, meet your guide and start your morning private walking tour of the city. Balance of the day at leisure.

A trip to Naples is not complete without a walk along Spaccanapoli. Literally meaning “Naples splitter” since it seems to divide the city in two parts, it certainly deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. This amazing district right in the historical centre, brings the past to life with numerous picturesque narrow

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• 3 nights’ accommodation in selected category hotels • Daily breakfast • Private walking guided visit of Naples (3 hours, no entries) • Guided tour of the historic (al) ateliers with personal shopper (4 hours) and private car at disposal (5 hours) • Private transfers on arrival • VAT

FASHION 148

ITALY INDIVIDUAL

TRAVELLERS - FIT

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES

A TASTE OF SICILY 12 days | 11 nights

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is ideal for authentic holidays in Italy.

The food is different and spicier. The architecture and culture is exciting and vibrant.

Holidays in Sicily offer breathtaking cities and exciting sights, combined with secret corners, beautiful countryside and relaxing beaches.

Day 1) Palermo You will be met at Palermo-Punta Raisi International Airport and transferred by private car and assistance to your 5* Hotel in the city. Check-in and accommodation in double room. Time at disposal. Tonight you will taste some delicious sicilian food along with the famous sicilian cakes.

Overnight stay.

Day 2) Palermo, Monreale After breakfast departure for a visit to the most important monuments of Palermo and Monreale. Palermo reached its greatest splendour after the Norman conquest.

The Cathedral, St. John of Hermits, Norman Palace, Palatine Chapel , the Cathedral and Benedictine Cloister. Later on visit of the Monreale with its outstanding Cathedral and Benedictine Cloister built in the 12th century. Free time in the afternoon before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight in Palermo.

Day 3) Palermo, Cefalù After breakfast departure for a tour off the beaten track of Palermo. Visit of the Capuchins’ Catacombs with the strange and macabre collection of mummies. Pleasant

Palermo

walk through the outdoor traditional “Vucciria” market. Departure to Cefalù. This little town perched on a rocky promontory was the favourite residence of the Norman King Roger II who built the monumental Cathedral, with the most finest Byzantine mosaics in the world. Free time to wander in the narrow street of the city. Dinner in a local restaurant. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Days 10 & 11) Taormina

Day 4) Palermo - Segesta, Erice, Trapani Breakfast at hotel and departure for Segesta. We will tour the old town, the mighty Doric temple held by 36 columns, and the Greek theatre. Then we will go to the medieval city of Erice, which stands upon an impressive hill, famous for the scientific cultural centre “Ettore Maiorana”. In particular we will visit the historical centre: the “Matrice” with its marvellous bell tower, the “Balio”, the Norman Castle and the Venus Castle. A panoramic tour of Trapani will follow. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Trapani.

Day 5) Trapani, Sciacca After breakfast, departure to Sciacca, a marvellous, picturesque fishing village.

You can explore its medieval alleys and baroque churches, find a seafood restaurant for lunch, then relax on one of its many sandy beaches. Sciacca is rich in thermal resources and the mild climate, the beautiful landscape and the memories of the city make it an ideal place for wellness of body and mind. The Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is a short drive away from Sciacca and is Europe’s most exciting new resort and one of most advanced luxury wellbeing centres. Set across 230 hectares of olive groves and countryside and situated on a hidden stretch of Sicily’s sundrenched shores, Verdura is lucky enough to have 1.8 km of coastline. You will relax for 3 days in this magnificent hotel.

Days 6 & 7) Sciacca Guests can capture the spirit of the sicilian campaign and tranquillity and enjoy the comfort and luxury services offered by this resort and, why not? Relax playing golf.

Day 8) Sciacca, Marsala, Selinunte, Agrigento After breakfast depart to Marsala through the “Salt Way”, visit the largest lagoon in Sicily, one of the most charming scenes with the possibility of visiting the museum of “Salt Activity”, plunged between the windmills, the Phoenician - Punic isle of Mozia with its archaeological finds and the “Whitaker” museum. Visit to the estates of Carlo Pelligrino and Cantine Florio, where guests will be invited for lunch. Continue to Selinunte and visit one of the largest archaeological parks in Europe: the Acropolis with its marvellous temples, evidence of the Greek and Phoenician - Punic civilization. Continue to Agrigento and a charming night tour of the lit “Valle dei Templi” (Valley of the Temples). Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Agrigento.

Day 9) Agrigento, Taormina After breakfast departure to Taormina.

During the tour there will be several halts to rest and admire the beautiful landscape of the Ionian coast and of its limpid sea.

Lunch on one of the typical restaurants on the seaside. Arrival in Taormina, check-in.

Dinner and overnight.

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Time at disposal to discover the town or just to relax on the private beach of the hotel.

Taormina is situated on the southern coast of Sicily and faces the Ionian Sea. This town has got a privileged position: at about 200 metres above the sea level, it has the appearance of a terrace, enriched by a beautiful landscape, where Mount Etna is the protagonist. The town is characterized by its cultural and naturalistic beauty and has always been the destination of celebrated personalities, both coming from the world of culture and art.

Option 1: visit to the Tenuta San Michele in Santa Venerina. Driving along the beautiful sicilian countryside to reach the Tenuta, property of the family Scamacca del Murgo.

The estate, closed to Monte Etna, produces wine but also products as oil, honey and jams. Guests will be invited to a visit of the cellar followed by a small tasting of typical products of the estate.

Option 2: excursion to Mount Etna, the biggest active volcano in Europe; you reach 1800 metres for a breathtaking view of an incredible landscape.

Day 12) Departure After breakfast, checkout and transfer by private car and assistance to Catania International Airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request Inclusions: • 11 nights’ accommodation in double deluxe room (Suite upon request) with breakfast in luxury hotels • Welcome drink on arrival in each hotel • Lunches and Dinners as per programme (wines & drinks not included) • Private assistance at disposal • Private car at disposal • Visits with privates guides (entrance fees to museums/monuments included) as per programme: 1 full day Palermo & Monreale, 1 half day Segesta, 1 half day Marsala, a private guided night tour of Valley of the Temples, 1 half day Taormina • 2 Relaxing Massage per person at Verdura Golf & Spa Resort in Sciacca • VAT

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES 151

BREATHTAKING ITALIAN COSTIERA 9 days | 8 nights

Vibrant, unique, passionate, rich in art and architecture and with spectacular sea, this is the bay lying in the shadows of Vesuvius.

The Bay of Naples, is renowned for the luxurious hospitality, the passion for music, dance, and the dramatic arts.

From the vibrant and densely populated city of Naples to the elegant Sorrento and the ruins of Pompeii, the bay offers a series of unique and unforgettable towns and seascapes. Vying with the beauties of the mainland, across the water lie the small islands of the gulf, Ischia and Capri.

DAY 1) NAPLES You will be met at Naples - Capodichino International Airport and transferred by private car to your 5-stars deluxe hotel in the city. Dinner tasting the real Italian pizza.

Overnight stay.

DAY 2) NAPLES Breakfast and time to visit Naples most famous monuments: Castel Nuovo also

known as Maschio Angioino, Royal Palace, San Carlo opera house, Santa Chiara Complex. A special stop will be dedicated to San Gennaro Museum where a inestimable treasure is preserved dated back 1300. Closed to the Museum the Real Chapel where you can visit Luca Giordano’s frescoes and Domenichino paintings and the most important the beaker with San Gennaro blood.

Rest of the day at leisure. Dinner, lunch and overnight in Naples.

Option 1: Discover the secrets of our vineyard Villa Matilde, closed to Naples. You will visit the property in a special itinerary showing the productions procedures and methods, wine tasting and gourmet lunch.

Option 2: A relaxing afternoon at Grand Hotel Parker’s Fitness Center at Day Light Spa.

DAY 3) NAPLES, ISCHIA Today after breakfast, departure to the island of Ischia by private boat. The blue waters of the Gulf of Naples are bounded in the North by the Phlegrean islands of Procida and Is-

Positano

chia and in the South by the legendary Capri.

Ischia is the youngest of the islands in volcanic terms, the most recent eruption being in 1302. Since Roman times, over centuries, visitors had been coming here to experience the curative benefits of the volcanic mud and many hot thermal springs welling up from the thermal water basin beneath the island’s surface. But it was in the 1950s that the island was “discovered” by the “beautiful people” such as Elizabeth Taylor, Maria Callas and Jack Lemmon and became famous. Known as the “Green Island” because of its abundant flora - citrus trees, pines and vineyards, the island has fine ho-

tels, gorgeous beaches and sophisticated restaurants. Lunch in Ischia. Return to Naples for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 4) NAPLES, POMPEII, SORRENTO After breakfast departure to Pompeii. Visit of the luxurious villas and temples, theatre and forum of Pompeii, destroyed in AD 79 by the Vesuvius eruption. Continuing to Sorrento. The Sorrento Peninsula has a unique landscape in the world, where natural beauties alternate, where the man’s work - who levelled even the most impervious areas, transforming them in the famous terraces degrading towards the sea, on which he cultivated orange and lemon trees, olive groves and vineyards - has been grandiose. This beautiful town is one of the favourite destination holiday all year round. Even in Roman times, Sorrento was popular for its pleasant climate and charming atmosphere. It is perched on a cliff overlooking their magnificent Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance. Check-in at your deluxe hotel.

Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants. Overnight in Sorrento.

DAY 5) SORRENTO, CAPRI Breakfast and departure by private boat to the small and marvellous worldwide known island of Capri. As you travel south across the Bay of Naples you see before you the unique, dramatic outline of Capri, one of the most elegant and sought after resorts. For centuries Capri was the playground of Roman Emperors and Patricians, who built villas and undertook great engineering projects on the island. Augustus had a favourite seaside villa here and his successor Tiberius built what is now the best preserved Roman Villa in Italy, Villa Jovis. Capri became popular with European artists and musicians, writers and other celebrities from the end of the 19thcentury, (Debussy, Somerset Maugham and many more). Today it is still a magnet for jetsetters. Lunch in Capri. Return to Sorrento by private boat for dinner and overnight stay.

Option: Spend 1 night in Capri in one of its luxurious hotels.

DAY 6) SORRENTO, POSITANO Departure to Positano along the prettiest and most romantic coast of Italy. This dramatically beautiful town clinging to the cliff

face as if about to cascade into the turquoise waters below has become synonymous with beach fashion. Positano’s elegant shop windows are full of displays of brightly coloured robes, bikinis, bags, and Bermuda shorts all made in cool linen, gauze and cotton. Time to relax in the SPA of your hotel. Lunch and dinner in Positano and overnight in this fabulous little city in one of its prestigious hotels.

DAY 7) POSITANO, AMALFI COAST After breakfast departure to Amalfi and Ravello passing through Praiano, which, in the era of the Marine Republics, came under the rule of nearby Amalfi. It may be less famous than Amalfi, but Praiano, which hosts a series of important traditional festivals and cultural events each year, is just as beautiful. A procession of attractive little white houses lines the road leading from Praiano to the small towns of Furore and Conca dei Marini. The earliest mention of Furore dates back to 1752. The town, situated on extremely impervious terrain, is known for its cuisine which uses the local tomatoes, olive oil, potatoes and mountain herbs to great effect. Just beyond Furore, we come to Conca dei Marini, a fishing village known above all for the Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto).

Arrival in the historic town of Amalfi an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Undisputed ruler of the seas in the 12th century, the town’s gradual decline from power has in no way diminished the beauty of its monuments, such as the cathedral: a veritable gothic masterpiece complete with highly decorative façade and impressive flight of steps.

The immense cathedral doors, made in bronze, were realised in Constantinople in 1065. Whilst wandering through the picturesque lanes of Amalfi, lined with tiny white cottages and shops, it is easy to catch a scent of the “sfusato” lemons which grow in abundance on this stretch of coast and are used to make the area’s highly prized Limoncello liquor. From Amalfi we take the provincial highway which leads to Ravello, a small town built above those of Maiori and Minori, on a high plain of the Dragone Valley.

Breathtaking views of the Gulf of Salerno can be admired from the terraces of the elegant villas for which the town is famous, villas once chosen as preferred residence of

many a famous personage, from J.F. Kennedy to Roberto Rossellini, from Federico Fellini to Winston Churchill. Richard Wagner was another great man to be seduced by the charm of Ravello, and it was here that he found the inspiration for much of his music. It is not surprising then, that the important Ravello Music Festival is dedicated to the illustrious German composer.

Lunch in Amalfi, dinner in Ravello and overnight in one of its charming hotels.

DAY 8) AMALFI COAST, SALERNO, NAPLES Today once again on the SS163, after Minori and Maiori passing through Capo d’Orso we come to the last town of the Amalfi Coast Vietri sul Mare, built in one of the most sheltered areas of the gulf of Salerno, is a town of Etruscan origin. A popular seaside holiday destination, Vietri sul Mare is perhaps most famous for its production of handcrafted ceramics decorated by hand, displayed in the numerous workshops which line the streets of the town. Lunch in Maiori - Restaurant suggestion: Il Faro di Capo Orso, the restaurant, established in 1930, faces the splendid gulf.

The tour continues in direction of Salerno to reach Naples. Dinner and overnight in Naples.

DAY 9) DEPARTURE After breakfast, check out and transfer by private transfer to Napoli International Airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request Inclusions: • 8 nights’ accommodation in double deluxe room (Suite upon request) with breakfast in luxury hotels • Welcome drink on arrival in each hotel • Lunches and Dinners as per programme (wines & drinks not included) • Private assistance at disposal • Private car at disposal • Private boat at disposal for a full day excursion to Ischia and a full day excursion to Capri • Tickets for funicular in Capri • Visits with privates guides (entrance fees to museums/monuments included) as per programme: 1 full day Naples, 1 half day Pompeii, 1 full day Capri • Entrance to a Spa with 1 massage included in Naples and Positano • VAT

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES 153

FERRARI AND LUXURY ARE INSEPARABLE 8 days | 7 nights The Ferrari Tour of Northern Italy offers a unique luxury travel experience, new and exciting journey through Italy at the wheel of the latest Ferrari. It’s the perfect partnership.

Breathtaking scenery, wonderful food, and people with an infectious passion for life, it’s hard to imagine a country with more to offer. We do not just rent you a Ferrari for your trip of Italy. We let you experience Italy by Ferrari as a First Class traveller.

Venice

tance to your 5* Hotel in Milan. Check-in and accommodation in double deluxe room. Time at disposal. Dinner and Overnight stay.

Day 2) MILAN Breakfast at the hotel. Morning and evening private guided tour of Milan, the capital of fashion and business. Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants. Overnight stay.

Day 3) MILAN Day 1) MILAN You will be met at Milan Linate or Malpensa International Airports and transferred by your private car and assis-

Milan

Breakfast at the hotel. Today enjoy the atmosphere of the world’s capital of fashion, go shopping in the most exclusive shops, attend fashion shows, relax body

and mind in a prestigious Spa, indulge in the glamorous restaurants attended by the international jet-set. Nightlife in an exclusive nightclub.

Day 4) BEGINNING OF THE FERRARI TOUR, MILAN, LECCO, BELLAGIO, CERNOBBIO After breakfast and check out, pick-up at your hotel and transfer to an exclusive lo-

cation for the departure of your Ferrari Tour.

Meeting with your Tour Director and welcome coffee in the exclusive location followed by a dedicated Ferrari briefing, with your car scenically displayed in reserved area. Our private Tour Director, an expert Ferrari driver, will introduce our guests to the world of Ferrari; clarify the finer details of the controls, explain the differences between the various models (Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Ferrari F430 Spider, Ferrari California and Ferrari 458 Italia), the peculiarities of the engines (8-cylinder or 12-cylinder) and most importantly, give guidance on how to handle the F1 paddle-gear shifting behind the steering wheel. All luggage will be transported separately.

Departure by Ferrari towards Como Lake. Our Tour Director leads you at the wheel of his Alfa Romeo, guiding your Ferrari along the splendid scenarios offered by this beautiful northern Italy’s lake. During the whole journey, the Ferrari and the Tour Director’s Alfa Romeo will be constantly in touch by mobile radio system. The itinerary drives you towards Como lake with a first halt in Lecco for a coffee. The curvy roads that runs near to the lake side leads to Bellagio for lunch. Lunch in Bellagio. After lunch time at disposal for a walk in the beautiful village of Bellagio. The tour continues

by Ferrari in direction of Cernobbio, near Como, to reach the hotel. Check-in at hotel and time at disposal to relax. Dinner and overnight stay in Cernobbio.

Day 5) CERNOBBIO, FRANCIACORTA, SIRMIONE Breakfast and checkout. Departure by Ferrari for Garda Lake, to reach Sirmione with a halt in the famous vineyard area of Franciacorta. Visit to the Cantine Guido Berlucchi, where the famous Franciacorta wine is produced since 1961. Lunch at La Colombara Restaurant at the Relaisfanciacorta.

The route by Ferrari leads to Sirmione on Garda Lake. Arrival in Sirmione and check-in at the hotel. Time at disposal to visit the village of Sirmione, known also as the pearl of the lake, and to relax at the hot springs. Dinner and overnight stay in Sirmione.

Day 6) SIRMIONE, VENICE

PRICES On request Inclusions: • 3 days Italy by Ferrari tour: Milan - Como Lake - Garda Lake - Venice, opportunity to drive the latest models, full Ferrari briefing, full-kasko car insurance up to 50 thousand Euro (civil liability) for all cars and up to 200 km of Ferrari driving, staff (1/2 persons), including your private Tour Director with his Alfa Romeo, mobile radio system (guests and staff, while driving, are always connected through radio), service of parking, cleaning and refuelling of the car.

RSI Travel’s Full Ferrari Service; enjoy driving your Ferrari while the private Tour Director and his staff take care of everything else: refuelling, cleaning, parking and technical assistance.

Breakfast and checkout. Departure by Ferrari for Venice and arrival at Piazzale Roma, arrival point of your Ferrari tour.

En route: stop in Verona, visit of the town and lunch. From Piazzale Roma transfer to the hotel by private taxiboat. Accommodation in double room in 5* deluxe hotel in Venice. Dinner and overnight stay.

• 7 nights’ accommodation in double deluxe

Day 7) VENICE

• Private assistance at disposal

Deposit for the car: Euro 10,000.00 for each car model

Not included: airfare, fuel for the car.

The programme is indicative and subject to modifications, on a day-to-day basis and with the assent of Travel Tour Director.

Guests can drive the Ferrari for up to 135 km during the day. room with breakfast in luxury hotels

After breakfast, private guided visit of Venice. Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants. overnight stay.

Day 8) DEPARTURE After breakfast, check out and transfer by private car from Piazzale Roma to Venice International airport for your return flight.

• Private car at disposal • Lunches and Dinners as per programme (wines & drinks not included) • Visits with privates guides (entrance fees to museums/monuments included) as per programme • Private Transfers as per programme • VAT

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES 155

THE SHOW OF ITALIAN FOOTBALL 8 days | 7 nights

Share the spirit and passion of Italians for the most popular sport of their country, the football. You will assist to some of the most important matches of the Italian Football Championship.

You will see the most famous football players.

DAY 1) ROME You will be met at Rome Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and transferred by private car and assistance to your luxury Hotel located in the heart of the Eternal City. Check-in and accommodation in double deluxe room. Guests can capture the spirit of ‘La Dolce Vita’ and enjoy the comfort and luxury services offered by these luxury hotels. Time at disposal. Dinner in any of our suggested

Milan Turin

glamorous restaurants. Overnight stay.

DAY 2) ROME Breakfast at the hotel. It is said of Rome that is not so much a city with museums but a city within a museum. Your private guided tour of the city begins with the visit of the wonders of the ‘Eternal City’. You will have the opportunity to explore some of its most beautiful sights, like the magnificent Coliseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, the Vatican, the Pantheon an almost perfectly preserved Roman Temple. Return to the hotel for refreshing.

In the afternoon or in the evening you will have the opportunity to attend a football match at the “Stadio Olimpico” of Rome.

Lunch and dinner in any of our suggested glamorous restaurants. Overnight stay.

Rome

DAY 3) ROME After breakfast, you will leave by private car and guide towards the area of the Castelli Romani, to visit such places as Frascati, Nemi, Ariccia, Castel Gandolfo, Marino and Grottaferrata. This area was frequented during the past by the noblemen of Rome, then the tradition was followed by the Popes, which still have their summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, on

the “Stadio Meazza San Siro” of Milan.

Lunch, dinner and overnight stay in Milan.

DAY 7) MILAN Breakfast at the hotel. Another day to enjoy the atmosphere of the world’s capital of fashion, go shopping in the most exclusive shops, relax body and mind in a prestigious Spa, indulge in the glamorous restaurants attended by the international jet-set. Overnight stay. the Lake of Albano. You will enjoy the beautiful landscape of Castelli Romani and its surroundings. Driving along Via Tuscolana, we will pass by Vivaro’s Reserve National Park, and the towns of Lariano and Velletri, to arrive at Nemi, for a short visit of this splendid spot, where you could taste the famous wild strawberries, one of the best delicatessen of this little village.

The tour heads towards Ariccia, not only famous for its excellent roast pork «porchetta», but also for its ancient burg overlooking Rome. Departure for Castel Gandolfo the Pope’s summer residence.

Lunch in Castel Gandolfo - Restaurant suggestion: Pagnanelli, with a panoramic view over the Lake of Albano.

Option: visit to the beautiful “Antiche Cantine Pagnanelli”, sculpted into volcanic rock and considered the best wine cellar of the Roman Castles.

After lunch back to your hotel in Rome for refreshing. In the afternoon visit the Vatican City, the heart of the Catholic faith with the Basilica of St. Peter, the world’s largest church and enjoy an exclusive viewing of the Sistine Chapel with your private guide when it is closed to the public (after 6 pm). Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants. Overnight stay.

DAY 4) ROME, TURIN After breakfast departure to Turin by private car. Arrival in the late afternoon and check-in double deluxe room. Time at disposal to rest. Lunch, dinner and overnight stay in Turin.

DAY 5) TURIN Breakfast at the hotel. Morning dedicated to a guided tour of the city. There is one tourist attraction in Turin that draws the crowds in their thousands. The Turin

Shroud is rarely seen in public and yet remains an endless source of fascination for visitors to the city. Aside from its most famous relic, Turin is a veritable treasure trove for anyone interested in uncovering the rich heritage of this largely undiscovered tourist destination. From grand royal palaces to impressive churches, there are plenty of attractions to keep visitors busy during their stay in the city. Lunch. Rest and in the afternoon or in the evening you will have the opportunity to attend a football match at the “Stadio Olimpico” of Turin. Dinner and overnight stay in Turin.

DAY 8) DEPARTURE After breakfast, checkout and transfer by private car and assistance to the international airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request Inclusions: • 7 nights’ accommodation in double deluxe room (Suite upon request) with breakfast in luxury hotels • Welcome drink on arrival in each hotel • Entrance to a Spa with 1 massage included in Rome, Turin and Milan

DAY 6) TURIN, MILAN After breakfast departure to Milan by private car. Arrival and check-in double deluxe room. Time at disposal for shopping or for a private guided tour of the city.

Time to admire the Milan, the financial heart of the country, has got an energetic pace that matches its skyscraper counterparts in the rest of the world. Yet the Italian eye for beauty and style never dims. Milan, however, is not only fashion and business. Art is also of outstanding relevance: during the Renaissance, the dynastic Visconti and Sforza families commissioned art that endured long beyond their political intrigues. Indeed, architecture too is relevant in Milan: its captivating, 14th century gothic rose-marbled Il Duomo Cathedral is second in size only to Rome’s St. Peter’s, but exceeding it in grandeur. The adjacent, famed Galleria - probably the world’s most elegant shopping mall - leads to the square where is surely the world’s most illustrious Opera House, La Scala. In the afternoon or in the evening you will have the opportunity to attend a football match at

• Private assistance at disposal • Private car at disposal • Lunches and Dinners as per programme (wines & drinks not included) • Wine tasting at the “Antiche Cantine Pagnanelli” in Castel Gandolfo, Rome • Visits with privates guides (entrance fees to museums/monuments included) as per programme • Private guided visit to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel • Tickets for the football matches - delivered to the hotel • Private Transfers as per programme • VAT Note: We are on hand to book all ticket categories based on choice for reserved sectors and prices.We would like to remind you that a photocopy of passport or ID Card is required for all spectators to purchase any football match tickets and relevant documentation must be provided at the time of booking. Tickets are non-transferable and once seats are assigned they cannot be changed."Nella sezione 'Inclusions' eliminare il punto 'Tickets for the football matches delivered to the hotel.

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES 157

THE CLASSIC TRIO: ROME, FLORENCE & VENICE

Venice

8 days | 7 nights Florence

DAY 1) ROME You will be met at Rome Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and transferred by private car and assistance to your 5* hotel located in the heart of the Eternal City. Check-in and accommodation in double deluxe room. Guests can capture the spirit of ‘La Dolce Vita’ and enjoy the comfort and luxury services offered by these luxury hotels. Time at disposal. You can relax, restore and discover the joy of being well with all natural wellness therapies and beauty treatments, the ultimate in rejuvenation and nourishment in a prestigious Spa. Within this serene retreat, each private pleasure renews the balance of body, mind and

soul. Dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 2) ROME Breakfast at the hotel. It is said of Rome that is not so much a city with museums but a city within a museum. Our private guided tour of the city begins with Rome’s ancient past. You will visit the Roman Forum, the Rome’s emblem, the magnificent Coliseum, and the Pantheon an almost perfectly preserved Roman Temple.

Return to the hotel for refreshing. In the afternoon discover Rome’s Renaissance and Baroque heritage, taking in the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona and the elaborate Trevi Fountain. Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants. Overnight stay.

Rome

DAY 3) ROME After breakfast, you will leave by private car and guide towards the area of the Castelli Romani, to visit such places as Frascati, Nemi, Ariccia, Castel Gandolfo, Marino and Grottaferrata. This area was frequented during the past by the noblemen of Rome, then the tradition was followed by the Popes, which still have their summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, on

DAY 8) VENICE

the Lake of Albano. You will enjoy the beautiful landscape of Castelli Romani and its surroundings. Driving along Via Tuscolana, we will pass by Vivaro’s Reserve National Park, and the towns of Lariano and Velletri, to arrive at Nemi, for a short visit of this splendid spot, where you could taste the famous wild strawberries, one of the best delicatessen of this little village. The tour heads towards Ariccia, not only famous for its excellent roast pork «porchetta», but also for its ancient burg overlooking Rome. Departure for Castel Gandolfo the Pope’s summer residence. Lunch in Castel Gandolfo - Restaurant suggestion: Pagnanelli, with a panoramic view over the Lake of Albano.

Option: visit to the beautiful “Antiche Cantine Paganelli”, sculpted into volcanic rock and considered the best wine cellar of the Roman Castles.

After lunch back to your hotel in Rome for resting. In the afternoon visit the Vatican City, the heart of the Catholic faith with the Basilica of St. Peter, the world’s largest church and enjoy an exclusive viewing of the Sistine Chapel with your private guide when it is closed to the public (after 6p.m.). Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants. Overnight stay.

DAY 4) ROME, FLORENCE Breakfast and checkout. Departure by private car to reach Florence, stop en route at Orvieto. Perched rocky outcrop overlooking rows of vine covered plains, the city boasts one of Italy’s most spectacular Cathedrals. We visit it before continuing on to Florence.

Lunch in Orvieto - Restaurant suggestions: Ristorante Le Grotte del Funaro, unusual exclusive restaurant, Il Giglio d’Oro. Dinner and Overnight in Florence.

Day 5) Florence Today we admire the artistic treasures of the world’s oldest gallery on a guided private tour of the Uffizi. Commissioned by the distinguished Medici family, the gallery contains a vast collection of priceless Renaissance pieces including works

by Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael. The rest of the day is at leisure in Florence.

You can indulge in a prestigious Spa and relax body and mind.

Option: visit and wine tasting to the “Cantinetta Antinori”. The Antinori family has been making wine for over six hundred years, since Giovanni di Piero Antinori became part of the Arte Fiorentina dei Vinattieri in 1385. Dinner and overnight stay in Florence.

After breakfast, private guided visit of Venice, you will enjoy a guided tour of the monumental heart of the city taking in the Rialto Bridge which spans the snaking Grand Canal and then head to St. Mark’s Square. Here we view the towering Campanile and visit the Basilica of St. Mark. Afternoon at leisure, you can choose to rest yourself in a prestigious Spa of this unique city. Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants.

Overnight stay.

Option: gondola ride, enjoy a relaxing evening cruising down many hidden canals so small you can literally touch the palazzos and breath in the Italian culture all the while being cradled in the atmosphere unique only to Venice.

DAY 9 -DEPARTURE After breakfast, check-out and transfer by private car from Piazzale Roma to Venice International airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request Inclusions:

DAY 6) FLORENCE, SAN GIMIGNANO, SIENA After breakfast departure to San Gimignano, little town situated on the hills, worldwide famous for the medieval towers and its panoramic view of the Chianti area. We will also visit a wine cellar and enjoy a wine tasting. After San Gimignano we will continue for Siena, well known for its horse racing Palio, which takes place twice a year. Lunch in Siena. Restaurant suggestion: Al Mangia, located in Piazza del Campo, Siena’s main square. Enjoy a city tour before returning to Florence. Dinner and overnight stay in Florence.

DAY 7) FLORENCE, VENICE After breakfast departure to Venice with a stop in Pisa. Time to admire the famous “Piazza dei Miracoli” and the leaning tower before continuing on to the romantic city.

Lunch in Pisa in one of our suggested restaurants. Continuing to Venice, arrival, check-in. Dinner and overnight stay.

• 8 nights’ accommodation in double deluxe room (Suite upon request) in luxury hotels, with breakfast • Welcome drink on arrival in each hotel • Entrance to a Spa with 1 massage included in Rome, Florence and Venice • Private assistance at disposal • Private car & motor boat in Venice at disposal • Lunches and Dinners as per programme (wines & drinks not included) • Wine tasting at the “Antiche Cantine Pagnanelli” in Castel Gandolfo, Rome • Wine tasting at the “Cantinetta Antinori” in Florence • Visits with privates guides (entrance fees to museums/monuments included) as per programme • Private guided visit to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Rome • Private guided visit to Uffizi Gallery in Florence • Tickets for the Opera houses • Private Transfers as per programme • VAT

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THE CRADLE OF OPERA Milan

9 days | 8 nights

Venice

THE EARTH HAS MUSIC FOR THOSE WHO HEARD. William Shakespeare

Italy is the best settlement for any art expression. Opera is one of the most suggesting and still alive and appreciated all around the world. Italy being the country of opera, has some of the most beautiful and famous Opera houses in the world worth a visit.

DAY 1) ROME You will be met at Rome Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and transferred by private car and assistance to your luxury hotel located in the heart of the Eternal City. Check-in and accommodation in double deluxe room. Guests can capture the spirit of ‘La Dolce Vita’ and enjoy the comfort and luxury services of-

fered by these luxury hotels. Time at disposal. Dinner in any of our suggested glamorous restaurants. Overnight stay.

Rome

DAY 2) ROME Breakfast at the hotel. It is said of Rome that is not so much a city with museums but a city within a museum. Your private guided tour of the city begins with the visit of the wonders of the ‘Eternal City’. You will have the opportunity to explore some of its most beautiful sights, like the magnificent Coliseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, the Vatican, the Pantheon an almost perfectly preserved Roman temple. Return to the hotel for refreshing. In the afternoon or in

the evening you will have the opportunity to attend a show at the Teatro dell’Opera of Rome. Lunch and dinner in any of our suggested glamorous restaurants.

Overnight stay.

DAY 3) ROME After breakfast, you will leave by private car and guide towards the area of the Castelli Romani, to visit such places as

Frascati, Nemi, Ariccia, Castel Gandolfo, Marino and Grottaferrata. This area was frequented during the past by the noblemen of Rome, then the tradition was followed by the Popes, which still have their summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, on the Lake of Albano. You will enjoy the beautiful landscape of Castelli Romani and its surroundings. Driving along Via Tuscolana, we will pass by Vivaro’s Reserve National Park, and the towns of Lariano and Velletri, to arrive at Nemi, for a short visit of this splendid spot, where you could taste the famous wild strawberries, one of the best delicatessen of this little village. The tour heads towards Ariccia, not only famous for its excellent roast pork «porchetta», but also for its ancient burg overlooking Rome. Departure for Castel Gandolfo the Pope’s summer residence.

Lunch in Castel Gandolfo - Restaurant suggestion: Pagnanelli, with a panoramic view over the Lake of Albano.

Option: visit to the beautiful “Antiche Cantine Pagnanelli”, sculpted into volcanic rock and considered the best wine cellar of the Roman Castles.

After lunch back to your hotel in Rome for refreshing. In the afternoon visit the Vatican City, the heart of the Catholic faith with the Basilica of St. Peter, the world’s largest church and enjoy an exclusive viewing of the Sistine Chapel with your private guide when it is closed to the public (after 6pm). Lunch and dinner in one of our suggested restaurants. Overnight stay.

DAY 4) ROME, VENICE Breakfast and checkout. Departure by private car to reach Venice, stop en route at Orvieto. Perched rocky outcrop overlooking rows of vine covered plains, the city boasts one of Italy’s most spectacular cathedrals. We visit it before continuing on to Venice.

Lunch in Orvieto - Restaurant suggestions: Ristorante Le Grotte del Funaro, unusual exclusive restaurant or Il Giglio d’Oro. Arrival in Venice at Piazzale Roma. From Piazzale Roma you will reach your luxury hotel in Venice by a private taxi-boat and assitance. Dinner and overnight stay in Venice.

DAY 5) VENICE After breakfast, private guided visit of Venice, you will enjoy a guided tour of the monumental heart of the city taking in the Rialto Bridge which spans the snaking Grand Canal and then head to St. Mark’s Square. Here we view the towering Campanile and visit the Basilica of St. Mark.

Lunch then time at leisure. In the afternoon or in the evening you will have the opportunity to attend a show at the Teatro La Fenice of Venice. Dinner in any of our suggested glamorous restaurants.

Overnight stay.

DAY 6) VENICE Breakfast at the hotel. Today you can relax, restore and discover the joy of being well with all natural wellness therapies and beauty treatments, the ultimate in rejuvenation and nourishment in a prestigious Spa. Within this serene retreat, each private pleasure renews the balance of body, mind and soul.

Lunch and dinner in any of our suggested glamorous restaurants. Overnight stay.

Option: gondola promenade in the evening. Enjoy a relaxing evening cruising down many hidden canals so small you can literally touch the palazzos and breath in the Italian culture all the while being cradled in the atmosphere unique only to Venice.

DAY 7) VENICE, MILAN After breakfast departure to Milan by private car. Arrival and check-in double deluxe room. Time at disposal for shopping or for a private guided tour of the city.

Time to admire Milan, the financial heart of the country, which has got an energetic pace that matches its skyscraper counterparts in the rest of the world. Yet the Italian eye for beauty and style never dims. Milan, however, is not only fashion and business. Art is also of outstanding relevance: during the Renaissance, the dynastic Visconti and Sforza families commissioned art that endured long beyond their political intrigues. Indeed, architecture too is relevant in Milan: its captivating, 14th century gothic rose-marbled Il Duomo Cathedral is second in size

only to Rome’s St. Peter’s, but exceeding it in grandeur. The adjacent, famed Galleria - probably the world’s most elegant shopping mall - leads into what is surely the world’s most illustrious Opera House, La Scala, where you will have the opportunity to attend a show. Lunch, Dinner and overnight stay in Milan.

DAY 8) MILAN Breakfast at the hotel. Another day to enjoy the atmosphere of the world’s capital of fashion, go shopping in the most exclusive shops, relax body and mind in a prestigious Spa, indulge in the glamorous restaurants attended by the international jet-set. Overnight stay.

DAY 9) DEPARTURE After breakfast, checkout and transfer by private car and assistance to the international airport for your return flight.

PRICES On request Inclusions: • 8 nights’ accommodation in double deluxe room (Suite upon request) with breakfast in luxury hotels • Welcome drink on arrival in each hotel • Entrance to a Spa with 1 massage included in Milan and Venice • Private assistance at disposal • Private car at disposal • Lunches and Dinners as per programme (wines & drinks not included) • Wine tasting at the “Antiche Cantine Pagnanelli” in Castel Gandolfo, Rome • Visits with privates guides (entrance fees to museums/monuments included) as per programme • Private guided visit to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel • Tickets for the Opera houses • Private Transfers as per programme • VAT

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES 161

THE ENCHANTING SARDINIA 8 days | 7 nights MANY TRAVELLERS AND WRITERS HAVE PRAISED THE BEAUTY OF THE UNCONTAMINATED ISLAND OF SARDINIA, WHICH IS HOME TO MANY UNIQUE SPECIES OF FLORA AND FAUNA AND WHERE TRACES OF THE ANCIENT NURAGIC CIVILIZATION HAVE BEEN FOUND.

Porto Cervo

Day 1) Costa Smeralda, PORTO CERVO You will be met at Olbia Airport and transferred by private car to your deluxe hotel located in Porto Cervo, a pearl of the worldwide famous Costa Smeralda. The Costa Smeralda is synonymous with dreamlike beaches, isolated coves and inlets, and gently-changing shades of blue and green sea. The Costa Smeralda is a magical mix of sun, sea, music and glee that you'll find hard to resist. Arrival and check-in. Balance of the day at leisure. Overnight.

Day 2) Archipelago della Maddalena Breakfast at the hotel. Meet your guide and

able nightspots, intimate restaurants, bars and shops of Porto Cervo. Glitzy and colourful Porto Cervo is a haven for the international jet set and a mooring-spot

for numerous oversized yachts. Back to your hotel. Overnight.

Day 5) ALGHERO Breakfast and checkout. Your private driver will take you to your n ext, beautiful location, Alghero. Arrival, check-in and balance of the day at leisure. Overnight stay.

Day 6) ALGHERO & BOSA After breakfast at your hotel, meet your driver who will take you for a tour through two fascinating and unique cities located in the North-West of Sardinia: Alghero and Bosa.

Founded as a military stronghold, Alghero is a city full of charm, and it is one of the most important cities of Sardinia. After a dip in the splendid sea of the Alghero coast, you can take a relaxing stroll in the charming Ciutat - the old town, or you can dedicate yourself to the discovery of the region, rich in history and archaeology, but also in natural beauties. Dominated by the castle of the Malaspina, Bosa pre-

sents itself as a pretty and romantic town, fascinating in its contrasts of colours, where shades of yellow and indigo of the traditional boats moored at the marina alternate with the pink of the houses in the centre, with the blue of the sea and with the green of the age-old olive trees.

Day 7) NEPTUNE’S CAVES Breakfast and departure with your driver to the cave dedicated to the god Neptune.

The history of the Caves of Neptune dates back to prehistoric times. Visiting the Neptune's Caves of Alghero is one of those things that everyone should do at least once in life. Because they are the most famous in the whole island and you have to go and see them with our own eyes to be able to enjoy their beauty and to understand their fascination. Back to your hotel and overnight.

PRICES On request Inclusions: • 7 nights’ accommodation in deluxe room in luxury hotels: • 4 nights in Porto Cervo • 3 nights in Alghero • Daily buffet breakfast • Welcome drink on arrival in each hotel • Lunches and Dinners where included (wines & drinks not included) • Private assistance at disposal on arrival and departure • Private car at disposal for the excursion as per program (max 8 hours per day) • Private boat at disposal for a full day excursion to the Maddalena Archipelago • Tickets for the Neptune’s Caves • Visits with private guides in Alghero and Bosa • VAT

Day 8) DEPARTURE After breakfast, checkout and transfer by private transfer to Olbia Airport for your return flight.

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LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES 163

VENICE – SANTA CRISTINA ISLAND A PRIVATE ISLAND RETREAT IN THE VENETIAN LAGOON

At a glance: Where nature meets luxury. This is the Island of Santa Cristina, a new exclusive destination near Venice. A private island located in the north-eastern part of the Venetian lagoon, surrounded by blue. Who is fascinated by the floating city and its events - from the Film Festival to the Biennale - will have its truce here: a five-star retreat in a villa at the complete disposal of those who book it. This is the real alternative holiday!

The island of Santa Cristina offers a private yacht called "Ammiana" (named after the forgotten islands of Ammiana, from which Santa Cristina originates, once the seat of monasteries) - which can accompany guests on interesting excursions. Nearby there are

the beautiful and romantic Burano, Murano and Torcello. If the sky is clear, from the boat you can see the Dolomites. Venice, with its artistic heritage, is just twenty minutes away.

Crossing the lagoon, Unesco heritage, also means observing the flora and fauna: you can meet cormorants and herons and recognize the salicornia, a plant almost 40 centimeters high typical of the soils rich in salt.

According to a study of the Venetian university CĂ Foscari, this would be one of the most evocative and unspoiled stretches of the lagoon; according to the academics, the good degree of environmental conservation makes Santa Cristina a place of high naturalistic interest.

Venice

The Destination: A private island, 30 hectares of silence in the Venetian lagoon 25 minutes from Venice. The history of the island is curious, like the rest of this less known part of Venice. Founded in the fifth century, it seems after the survivors of the town of Altino conquered by Attila, the island was part of the archipelago of the "garden islands" of Ammiana. It was in 1325 that he took his name, when the body of the martyr Cristina came

PRICES On request Inclusions: Package A – Fully serviced • 3 night stay for the whole villa (9 rooms) • Private chef service for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including kitchen cleaning • Private waiter will serve you the food and will provide you with drinks throughout the day • Housekeeping: 4 hours making up room, change of towels and sheets every 3 nights • Return private transfer from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the island • City tax • VAT Package B – Self serviced • 3 night stay for the whole villa (9 rooms) • Housekeeping: 4 hours making up room, change of towels and sheets every 3 nights (not including the cleaning of the kitchen) • Return private transfer from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the island • City tax • VAT

from Constantinople right here, "entrusted" to the care and devotion of a group of Benedictine nuns. The last nun left the island at the end of the fifteenth century and since then fell silent on Santa Cristina. And also on the lagoon: beautiful, wild, ancient, and abandoned. Torcello, the beginning of the Venetian adventure, today is inhabited by only 9 people, while in the entire lagoon there are no more than 3000 inhabitants. From here begins a holiday made of sunsets, readings in the pool, romantic dinners on the porch, walks

and boat trips to discover the lagoon.

The Accommodation: 5 star born from the renovation of the house creating 9 rooms for a total of 16 beds and a swimming pool.

The minimum stay is three nights and by booking you are guaranteed to have the exclusive use of the house, the pool and the whole island.

The kitchen is open to the incursions of the best chefs in the area, such as Ruggero and Massimiliano Bovo from the Il Gatto Nero restaurant, favored by VIPs. The locations

vary between inside and outside: from the large living room with the fireplace to the outdoor terrace, up to the roof terrace from which you can enjoy the view of the whole island, recommended at sunset. A large swimming pool and the lake currently undergoing reclamation, intended for the recovery of fish species typical of the lagoon, for an eco-friendly fishing. All around the organic orchard, olive trees and vineyards, from which the organic red wine and the Ammiana brandy are produced.

Note

villa, payable to Isola Santa Cristina upon

• Minimum stay required is 3 nights

presentation of a credit card upon arrival

• Check-in 2pm, check-out by 11am

• Isola Santa Cristina will arrange the

• VAT percentage could be revised by Italian

• The costs for food and beverages are not

transportation to/from the Villa; arrival

Government during the year and rates

included in above prices and will be paid

and departure after dark is not possible.

could be revised accordingly

at cost directly to the chef and The Villa of-

The boat will not operate after sunset due • The number of people allowed on the is-

The client, its family members and/or ac-

land and in the villa must not exceed 15

companying people are made aware that

• Surcharges may apply for public holidays and special events

poses of inspection and maintenance

to safety regulations.

fers Full board or no board (not possible B&B basis or Half Board basis)

sonable time during rental period for pur-

• Pets are not allowed in the Villa unless a

• Last minute changes cannot be guaranteed

previous written agreement

• Security deposit of Euro 3,000 is required

• The owner or his/her representative shall

against any breakage damages to the

be allowed access to the villa at any rea-

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the most part of the island, Isola Santa Cristina, were deliberately left in natural state. Therefore the client may run certain risks due in particular to its natural state.

LUXURY CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN PACKAGES 165

BANK HOLIDAY All Sundays New year Epiphany Easter Easter Monday Italian Liberation Labour Day Republic Day St. John (only in Florence and Turin)

January, 1 January, 6 April, 12 April, 13 April, 25 May, 1 June, 2 June, 24

St. Peter and Paul (only in Rome) The Redumer (only in Venice) Our Lady’s Ascent All Saints S. Ambrogio (only in Milan) Immaculate Conception Christmas St. Stephen’s Day

June, 29 July, 19 August, 15 November, 1 December, 7 December, 8 December, 25 December, 26

TERMS & CONDITIONS RESERVATION PROCEDURES All business between AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY and its clients will take place via e-mail or fax. No business shall be transacted verbally. AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY final booking confirmation for clients travel arrangements will be sent within 24 hours.

RATES All rates are stated in Euro and inclusive of taxes and VAT and do not include any city accommodation tax. Rates are net.

The prices that are applicable at any time are that which are quoted at that time by AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY. Government taxes and charges imposed by third parties, including airline fuel surcharges, taxes or ticketing fees are subject to change. If any increase in such taxes or changes increases the price of the booking, AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY reserves the right to adjust your prices by including additional charges at any time. We will notify you of schedule or price changes made by third parties for any reason beyond our control.

PAYMENT POLICY AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY must receive the full payment 15 days before client’s arrival. If payments are not received within these terms, AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY is entitled to cancel the booking.

Under exceptional circumstances additional deposits may be required and they will be indicated at the time of the final confirmation by AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY. AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY must receive the copy of the bank transfer per each reservtions.

3.1 Payment by Credit Card Payments by credit card must be accompanied by a signed authorization form, a copy of the credit card front/back and ID. AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY will send to the client the authorization form that has to be sent back to the fax no. +39 06 44249616.

A credit card commission of 1,5% will be added to the total amount of the booking.

3.2 Payment by Bank Transfer AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY will provide to the client the Bank account details to make the payments.

CANCELLATION POLICY 4.1 Cancellation and No-Show by the clients Cancellations must be made via e-mail or fax and the following conditions will apply – unless stated with different conditions in the hotel/service contracts : • More than 72 hours (3 working days) prior to client’s arrival: Full refund •72 hours (3 working days) prior to client’s arrival and for No-show: 1 night If additional penalties are applied, due to different suppliers policy, you will be informed via email/fax. Any cancellation on services (event, car rental, theatre, concert, special interest, activity and attraction tickets/passes, etc.) attracts a cancellation fee of 100%.

When cancelling the booking you will be notified via email/fax of the total cancellation fees. The cancellation charge applied will be that applicable to the period of booking in question. The above mentioned cancellation conditions shall apply except where

particular cancellation conditions are specified in the specific hotel/service rates and description forms applicable to each hotel/service.

4.2 Cancellation by AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY As mentioned in the payment policy AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY is entitled to cancel the booking if payments are not received within the terms above-mentioned. Notice of cancellation will be made by e-mail/fax.

CHANGES 5.1 Changes by clients Any changes is possible, without any penalty, within 3 days prior customer’s arrival.

5.2 Changes by AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY is not responsible for hotel overbooking and for any compensation it may be requested for the inconvenience of being relocated in another hotel.

COMPLAINT POLICY AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY must be informed in writing by clients about any complaints that may occur during their stay. If clients fail to inform AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY, AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY is not responsible for the consequences of the complaints. AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY will only take into consideration complaints made no later than 4 weeks after the client’s departure. In the unlikely event ov any legal dispute the competent court is deemed to be where the organization has its legal domicile, in this case in Rome.

UNUSED TOUR SERVICES & ACTIVITIES AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY is not responsible for any unused portions of your trip or tour services and will not refund any money. Failure to rede¬em the tour components as per the pre-arranged times may result in the loss of that tour component and no money will be refunded.

RESPONSIBILITY, UNEXPECTED EVENTS & FORCE MAJEURE AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY is responsible to you in making arrangements for the tour services offered, including transportation, sightseeing tours and hotel accommodation. The carries, hotels, and other suppliers providing tour services are independent contractors and are not agents, employees, or servants of, or joint venture with the Company. AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY does not assume any liability whatsoever for damage, loss, injury, death, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of default by any hotel, carrier, restaurant, or other person rendering any of the services included in the tour or by force majeure. AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY will not be held responsible for any breach of this Agreement which shall be attributable to acts of God, hostilities, strikes, labor disputes, machine breakdown, illness, acts of terrorism, governmental actions, natural catastrophes, or otherwise or for any other reason whatsoever AG BOUTIQUE JOURNEY’s control.

NOTICES Any notices may be sent by email or fax to the addresses designa ted by the parties from time to time.

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