Guest Book

We have used Ciao Tours 5 times in the past few years, starting with our first tour in 2001, and our last in 2009. We have traveled from Bolzano in the north to Matera and Lecce in the south;  from Cinque Terre and Cararra in the west to Montefalco, Umbria in the center of Italy.  Each time the tours were wonderful experiences for us.  The private tours in Montefalco from Maila were charming and her knowledge of the area was quite thorough.  Cooking classes in Sienna in Laura's flat, in the kitchen in Villa Pambufetti, and in a private home in San Gimignano.  Each time we cooked and indulged in rich and tasty Italian food.   Hotel San Simeone in southern Tuscany was amazing, overlooking the Orcia valley - almost able to see  to Pienza and Montalcino from the hilltop vista.  The staff goes out of their way to accomodate your needs.  And the staff in Italy are there when you need them.  In 2006 we had a fender bender with our rented Alfa, and what did we do?  We called Luna!  She came to rescue and chewed the appropriate people out as only an Italian can do, and we eventually shook hands with the young kid who scraped our car, the owner of the tractor, the Carbinieri, and were on our way. 

The ancient city of Matera must be seen to be believed. You are transported back 2000 years!  Our hotel was incredibly spacioous and charming, carved into the limestone hillside.  It's hard to say our favorite hotels:  Poggiocolle in San Gimignano, Villa Pambutett in Montefalco, Hotel Park Holzner in Bolzano - with a stunning view of the Dolomites, and the charming hotel in Monterosso, Il Gigante - with a beautiful marble bathroom and a short walk to the beach.   

We can't say enough of good things about our trips designed by the staff at Ciao Tours.  If only the other countries of Europe had their version of Ciao Tours, it would be great.  But, alas, we keep going back to Italy.  How do you top the best scenery and warm people and amazing food?