Include Activities for the Children…​

If little children and/or teenagers are part of your group, be sure to include activities and attractions that will interest them. Staying at hotels with a pool is an excellent idea in summer and you'll want reservations made well in advance since hotel swimming pools in Europe are not as prevalent as they are in the US.  If you opt for an escorted tour, companies such as Tauck (Bridges), or Destinations by Disney, have specific itineraries designed around family travel.

When in Rome…visit the Gladiator School for an unusual and fun experience both adults and kids will enjoy. (NOTE: You will need to pre-book this.) Spend a couple of hours at the gardens which are adjacent to the Villa Borghese. You can rent rowboats at the small lake, rent various sizes/types of bicycles (tandem, etc.) and surreys to explore the gardens.  There are miniature pony rides for the little ones along with playground areas. They might enjoy the zoo and you will find another children’s play area and a picnic area nearby. Stalls will offer snacks and cold drinks; you might want to pick up more substantial fare at a trattoria beforehand. (typically, they have terrific sandwiches and other snacks.) A small children’s theatre shows movies in the afternoon and early evening. 

​Family Dinner Overlooking the Med...

Just imagine enjoying a delicious dinner while visiting with your Italian aunts/uncles/cousins - many whom you just met a short while ago.  On a past trip to ItaIy, I participated in a dinner with about 30 people, 14 from the US and the remainder, our relatives in Italy. This dinner was in a small town called SestriLevante and our meal was served on the hotel's outside terrace overlooking the ocean.  A truly unforgettable evening!

Biking Your Way Through Italy...

Cycle away from your hotel, knowing you have a day full of interesting activities - tasting a group of red wines, sharing a cooking class with a chef at his villa, followed by an evening free to enjoy a new town on your own, or with  new friends.​ That night, all of your luggage is waiting for you in your room at your next hotel.  And, the next day - more unique experiences before arriving at your next luxury hotel.  With e-bikes, even the hills are easy biking. 

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Cooking Your Way Through Tuscany...

Spend the  early morning at the local farmer's market selecting the freshest fruits, vegetables, meat and fish.  Mid morning is the chef teaching you how to make raviolis, prepare a delicious sauce and ends with gelato.  Finally, you sit down for lunch and enjoy a glass of wine after your busy morning.  And, new recipes to wow! your friends when you get home.