Scott and I have travelled a lot domestically, but never to Europe. I have always wanted to visit Italy, and after a few years of my not so subtle hints, Scott agreed! We chose the Heart of Italy tour as a great starting point. The tour covered Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, and Volterra. Each location was wonderful, while all being very different from each other.
Neither Scott or I are fond of long flights. We both get very wiggly, and I sure wouldn't want to be seated next to either of us on a long flight. We went out of our way to have a comfortable flight from the states to Italy, so we flew from Atlanta to New York, then made our way very comfortably to Frankfurt. Finally we boarded our last flight to Rome. Needless to say, we were very tired, but also very happy and excited to arrive at our hotel in Rome.
Rome
The next morning after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we set out to explore, and purchase a few items at the store a few steps from our hotel.
Scott and I enjoyed walking around and getting familiar with the area. And after a nice lunch, we were ready to meet our guide and tour group.
In addition to the sites, our guide also made sure we could get around on our own with "some" confidence. We rode the bus and also the metro.
The Colosseum and the Forum were spectacular. The history alone is outstanding, but to walk in the footsteps of history was indescribable.
Volterra
Our next stop was the walled town of Volterra. After a bit of a delay due to a small issue with the bus, we arrived at this most charming location. And the little issue with the bus was one of my favorite events! We were picked up by pairs or groups of four or so by local residents. People who went out of their way to help total strangers says so much about the kindness of folks, and just added to the true spirit of a Rick Steves tour.
Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre is a beautiful, charming, and picturesque location. We had a great introduction including how to ride the train between towns, and also plenty of free time to explore on our own.
The group enjoyed a delicious meal together with some of the best basil pesto pasta I have ever tasted!
Castello Del Trebbio
On the way to Florence, we had a wonderful afternoon lunch and olive oil tasting at the Castello Del Trebbio. Our hosts explained the process of olive oil from vine to bottle. The food and olive oil pairing was perfect.
Florence
Our Italy journey ended in Florence. I can't say enough about this city. When rounding the corner and seeing the Duomo for the first time, I was very emotionally moved. The site brought tears to my eyes. Scott and I were also so moved by the art in the Uffizi Gallery.
A WONDERFUL ADVENTURE
For Scott and I, this trip was life- changing. It opened our minds to travel more than before. The tour was a perfect one to experience Italy, or any Eurpean location for the first time. The Rick Steves tour guides are wonderful, the hotel choices perfect, and the group dinners a super way to meet and get to know our fellow travelers. I encourage anyone who has wanted to see Europe, but has hestitated for any reason, to just take that step and move a little out of your comfort zone. You will see that people are so alike everywhere you go.