With its rich history, stunning architecture, breathtaking scenery, and delicious cuisine, Italy is a destination that will capture your heart and leave you longing to return again and again. 

This trip took us to new places, new friends and new cultural experiences. This trip was more than we ever expected!

John and I love to travel, stay active and love eating local cuisine wherever we go. We have traveled frequently to Mexico and around the US but have also been to Costa Rica, Canada and living in South Carolina love vacations at the ocean and beach time. We usually do our own itinerary including flights, transportation and lodging. Planning a European vacation was a bit more daunting, especially transportation and lodging. So, a tour seemed like a great way to see many places without having to plan every piece.  Three of our adult children and their spouses had been to Italy prior to our trip so we picked their brain on activities and prices they paid on travel, lodging and activities.  When we pieced together this itinerary, with Rick Steves, we realized we were getting a lot for the money. Our children actually spent more and got less in many similar activities, like the cooking class, transportation, boat tickets and tours.   We absolutely loved our trip with Rick Steves and his company!!!!