Some of us opted to stay close to our Tuscan home base and dive into the elegant charm of Montecatini Terme, a town famed for its healing waters and Belle Époque style. With our guide leading the way, we wandered the streets on a half-day walking tour, learning about Montecatini’s rise as a 19th-century wellness destination. The highlight? A visit to the historic Tettuccio Spa, a masterpiece of architecture and serenity. Built in the late 1700s and frequented by royalty, writers, and composers, the spa still flows with mineral-rich waters that are said to aid digestion and overall health. Whether[…]
Month: April 2025
Florence in a Day: Renaissance Wonders, Hidden Gems & Unforgettable Views
Today was nothing short of magical. We arrived in Florence early this morning, greeted by the warm Tuscan light spilling over terracotta rooftops. Our local guide met us for a walking tour through the heart of the city—each cobblestone street seemed to whisper stories of the past. We stood in awe at the Piazza del Duomo, surrounded by the grandeur of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery of St. John. The scale and artistry of Brunelleschi’s dome are impossible to put into words. Wandering further, we took in the historic Piazza della Signoria,[…]
A Hidden Gem in Tuscany: Exploring Lucca
After a warm Tuscan sunrise and a hearty Italian breakfast, we set off on a day that felt like walking through the pages of a Renaissance novel. First stop? Lucca – Tuscany’s best-kept secret and a city that knows how to charm without trying too hard. Walking Lucca’s perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, we were surrounded by panoramic views and a calm energy unlike any other city in Italy. The Romanesque churches stand like time capsules, quietly guarding centuries of stories. We strolled the medieval streets, flanked by towers and lined with shops, trattorias, and timeless beauty. There was time to[…]
Touchdown in Tuscany & Welcome Dinner
April 24-May 01, 2025 Overnight Travel & Group Dinner The flight was long, but the view of Tuscany’s rolling hills made it all worth it. I’ve always dreamed of savoring delicious food, sipping on savory wines, and exploring charming towns — now, it’s real. Arriving in Montecatini Terme, a beautiful spa town, I met my fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. We shared regional dishes and Italian wines, setting the perfect tone for this adventure. Tuscany is everything I imagined, and I can’t wait to explore more tomorrow.