Q: So what exactly is a gourmet vacation?

A: This is a week full of the finest in Italian foods and wines served either in the luxury villa or in renowned local restaurants.  We will get to meet the locals and truly experience Italy, not just see it from the windows of a passing tour bus.  We will see the local sights, but do so more as a local than as a tourist. 

Q: I know this is a gourmet vacation, but do I really have to cook? I really just want a vacation, not more work.

A: Relax. This is your week. If you want to participate, you can. If you want to watch, just relax and watch. If what you really want to do is just sit back in a recliner with a glass of wine, then by all means do just that. Trust us, there will be more cooking going on tomorrow. On the average, one out of three guests chooses to help with the meals. Many guests never enter the kitchen, except to compliment those who helped to make the evening special.

Q: I remember that in Europe, the bathroom is always down the hall.  Is this still true?

A: All of our accommodations include private en suite bathrooms.  There is no sharing of bathrooms in our luxury villas.

Q: What if I don't drink wine?

A: Don't worry, you won't be alone.  The food is still wonderful, and the visits to cheese makers, the guest artisan chocolate makers, castles, and yachts (in Amalfi) will give you plenty to experience. 

Q: Will we be following someone holding up an umbrella or tour company sign, like sheep being herded?

A: Absolutely not. We have small groups (typically 10-20), and there is no need for signs or umbrellas. In our opinion, umbrellas are for rain only. Many events occur at the villa, and others are typically not far away. Transportation is provided in vehicles sitting 10 or less, and we seldom travel for more than an hour.  Our more adventurous guests sometimes get their own rental cars, or share with other guests. This gives them the freedom to leave the group whenever they want, or stay longer if they wish to do so. The choice is strictly up to you.

Q: What if I don't speak Italian?

A: We don't expect you to speak Italian.  Either the host (at the wineries, restaurants, etc) speaks English, or we will be right there with you providing any translation necessary.  We do request that our guests learn a few words like "please" and "thank you" in Italian for common courtesy to our local friends. 

Q: I am nervous about driving in a foreign country. Is it okay?

A: You can always travel with us. And if you choose to venture out on your own, taxis are plentiful.  But if you choose to rent a car, relax. And don't drive in Rome . But if you are nervous, be sure to rent a GPS system with your rental car and get the GPS coordinates of our villa before you leave home. Your GPS system will guide you to the villa no matter how many wrong turns you make! Oh, and before you leave, stop by any AAA office and get an international driver's license. This is actually a document which translates your driver's license into many foreign languages, making it easier for the foreign police to understand, should they need to do so. And as we said, you can always travel with us.

Q: Are tips included, or must I pay everyone at the end?

A: Our tour guides and drivers are well taken care of.  There is no tipping by our guests.

Q: Do I have to go on the excursions?

A: Feel free to skip any event you wish to skip. Some people choose to venture off on their own to find a special restaurant they can call their own, or to find the perfect chocolates to bring home to friends. Or just stay at the villa and relax. It's your vacation.  Enjoy.