FAVORITE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES OF 2019
I always mention handcrafted itineraries and unique travel experiences but what does that really mean? How do we incorporate these experiences to really match clients’ unique personalities and preferences?
During our detailed planning process, our questions reveal what clients love to do, not on vacation, but day-to-day. This allows us to think of experiences that would be perfect for them while traveling and visiting the most spectacular cities in the world.
So in this article I’m sharing with you some of the unique experiences my clients enjoyed this year in Italy...
ARTISANS TOUR IN FLORENCE…
The experience - Explore the neighborhoods of Florence’s artisans with your local expert guide, visit their workshops and experience first hand the city’s renowned “artigiani”. What better way to explore the lives of Florence’s artisans than with this unique off-the-beaten-path experience? Your local expert guide will take you through medieval backstreets to learn about the tricks of these traditional trades. Florence’s rich artisanal culture dates back to the middle ages, but it is still very much alive today. This behind the scenes tour will give you exclusive access to the production sites of crafts like wrought ironwork, leather, woodworking, shoemaking and jewelry.
Who it’s for - Those who would love to meet the artisans, learn about their history and how this trade has been passed on from generation to generation.
CULINARY EXPERIENCE IN UMBRIA…
The experience – Go behind the scenes with the wines, olive oils, cheeses and cured meats that have put Umbria on the Epicurean map. The visit and tour of a family run farm will get you close with the animals, learn about the inner workings of the dairies and presses, and stroll through the olive groves. All the insight you gain will come in handy when you return to the kitchen for your master class. First, an olive oil tasting gives you the tools to distinguish between fruity and mild olive oils, and pair the oils with the perfect fare. Then, a cooking course gives you the tricks and techniques you need to prepare Italy’s famous antipasti and cook authentic Umbrian pasta and gnocchi dishes with delicious sauces. After the course, sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor accompanied by a tasting of local wines led by the farm’s resident wine expert. To walk off your lunch, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring some of the local olive oil and salami producers and end your day with a greater understanding of Umbria’s renowned gastronomic traditions.
Who it’s for - If you are passionate about food and wine and want to explore a lesser-known region of Italy. Umbria is the countryside, it is lush, green, and earthy. They are very passionate about their food and everything is pure and fresh. The best place to learn about their local foods and traditions is at one of its working farms.
LUNCH ON THE ONLY ISLAND ON LAKE COMO…
The experience – The best way to experience Lake Como is from the water – take in its colorful lakeside villages, its elegant villas and its Alpine views from the comfort of your own private boat. This unique experience takes you to visit lakeside towns, then Villa Balbianello, and finally for lunch on the only island on the lake. Stop at a lovely lakeside town for a wander past its pastel-colored cottages and through its warren of cobbled alleys. Then, cross Lake Como at its widest point on our approach to Villa Balbianello, considered to be the most beautiful villa on Lake Como. After an extensive tour of the rooms and picturesque gardens we take you to the lake’s only island, Isola Comacina, for lunch in its traditional restaurant. The 7-course menu, that hasn’t changed since 1947, features true Italian comfort food and ends with Benvenuto’s flaming brandied coffee ceremony believed to break the island’s legendary curse. It’s truly a magical experience.
Who it’s for – Those who enjoy custom experience with a private boat and local guide who is a native of the region. Your guide will share Lake Como’s history and unique stories to help you understand the area’s local foods and traditions.
PERSONAL SHOPPER IN MILAN…
The experience – Milan is known as the fashion capital of the world. Our personal shopper will introduce you to the best designers, stores and products that the city has to offer ensuring you the best possible advice and style to suit your needs. Not only does our personal shopper have the knowledge but also has the ‘eye’ and will give you great input regarding your purchases and how to get the most out of them.
Who it’s for – Those who love fashion and want a personalized experience learning about local Italian brands. Our personal shopper will send a detailed questionnaire to learn about you, your style and some of your favorite brands. This way she will know exactly where to take you for your shopping experience.
These are just some of 2019’s favorite experiences. You can see how specific we get with clients’ preferences and passions. Every vacation you take should be as unique as you are. And every tour and activity should be based on your preferences and interests.
I would be honored to help plan your next vacation so we can incorporate some unique experiences that would be perfect for you. Contact me for your complimentary consultation.
