Posted by Chuck | Destination Italy by Coco’s Our final full day in Rome began with one of the most peaceful breakfasts I’ve ever had — seated in the Pinecone Courtyard of the Ponte Sisto Hotel, cappuccino in hand, watching the soft morning light dance on Michelangelo’s magnificent dome. It’s hard to describe the calm that comes from being in a place so full of history, yet so serene. The dome of St. Peter’s Basilica stood quietly in the distance, reminding us just how much this city has witnessed over the centuries. And then, we stepped into that history ourselves.[…]
Category: 0925-1008 Best of Italy
Day 10 – Rome
Rome has a way of waking up with you. The piazzas were stretching their arms, fountains sparkling in the early sun, and that first creamy cappuccino set the tone for the day. Even the Vespas parked along the cobbled streets looked like they were ready for adventure. This morning we had options—like a choose-your-own-adventure in the Eternal City. Some dove into Rome’s Renaissance and Baroque magic, where Caravaggio’s paintings glow from chapel walls and the Pantheon still steals the show centuries later. Others went deep into Rome’s Christian story, wandering through the Catacombs and standing in the quiet peace of[…]
Day 9: From Florence to Rome via Chiusi — A Journey Through Ancient Etruria
Today’s journey took us deep into the heart of Tuscany and the ancient world, as we made our way from Florence to Rome with a fascinating stop in Chiusi, one of the hidden gems of southern Tuscany. Before we even reached the Eternal City, we found ourselves walking in the footsteps of the Etruscans—a sophisticated civilization that thrived long before the Romans absorbed their culture. With our incredible local guide Barbara, we explored Chiusi’s quiet streets, winding underground passages, and rich archaeological history. One of the highlights was the Labyrinth of King Porsenna, an ancient underground water system filled with[…]
Day 7 & 8 – Romagna Countryside, Emilia Food Valley Arrival in Florence
Today was a true highlight for food lovers as we traveled into the Emilia region, known as Italy’s culinary heart. At a local vocational high school dedicated to Culinary Arts and Agriculture, we were warmly welcomed by both students and teachers for an Impact Moment that celebrated the traditions of food and farming. Here, we learned how the world-famous Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is made, following codes that date back to the 1300s. We also discovered the patient craft of aging Balsamic vinegar—a generational process that can take anywhere from 12 to 25 years. Some of our travelers even tried their hand[…]
Day 6 Romagna Countryside – San Marino – Romagna Countryside
Today felt like one of those days where I had to pinch myself just to make sure it was real. We started off in the Romagna countryside, where the land rolls gently like waves. It’s calm, quiet, and green — but by mid-morning we were winding our way up to San Marino, the tiny republic perched high on Mount Titano. Hard to believe this is the fifth-smallest country in the world, because standing at the top, it feels endless. From there, the Adriatic sparkled in the distance, and all around were hills layered like patchwork. San Marino’s old town looks[…]
Day 5: Romagna Countryside – Borgo Conde Wine Resort , Forli
Day five in Italy gave our group the rare treat of choice—something we all dream about on vacation: a day tailored to your own pace. The morning began gently at our wine resort hotel, sunlight streaming over the terracotta rooftops and vineyards, painting the villa in warm golden hues. Breakfast was a cheerful affair, and Jimmy joined us with a big grin, tucking into fresh pastries and Italian coffee as laughter filled the terrace. Some of us opted to remain in this peaceful paradise. The spa beckoned with an indulgent organic, wine-infused mud treatment that left skin glowing and spirits[…]
Day 4: Venice ➝ Po River Sailing ➝ Romagna Countryside
This morning we waved arrivederci to Venice, taking one last ride through the canals before heading out into the countryside. The city slowly faded behind us as we made our way toward the Romagna region, a land famous for its love of food, wine, and good living. Our journey took us into the Po Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the landscape feels timeless. We boarded a pontoon boat and glided across the wetlands, the same waters that once sheltered ancient Romans as they fled barbarian invasions. The scenery was peaceful and wide, dotted with small fishing huts and[…]
Day 3 – Venice: Gondola Boatyard, Ride & Classical Concert
Venice is a city unlike any other, and today it felt like we peeled back another layer of its magic. By now, we’ve traveled on four different kinds of boats in just three days—a true Venetian initiation! Yesterday we explored the Po River Delta with our wonderful guide Sara and Captain Sandro, and it was so good to see them again. That nature tour was such a unique experience, far from the usual tourist trail, and it gave us a glimpse into an important part of Italy that so many people overlook. But today was all about one of Venice’s[…]
Venice, Piazza, Music – Day 2
Now that we’re all well-rested, the adventure officially begins! Venice, with its 117 tiny islands, 150 winding canals, and 400 charming bridges (thank you, UNESCO), is ready to show us its magic—and we are so ready for it! Our day kicked off with a proper dose of Venetian charm. Imagine this: me, Chuck, riding the waves like a pro…or at least trying to. Don’t just take my word for it—check out the action in this video. Spoiler alert: Venice has waves, and yes, I survived! As we wandered through Venice, we caught a glimpse of a man quietly sitting on[…]
Best of Italy Tour: Day 1 – Venice Arrival
Today we landed in the magical city of Venice! There’s truly no better way to begin an Italian adventure than by taking a boat taxi from the airport directly to our hotel. Gliding across the lagoon with the city rising up before us is always a breathtaking way to start the journey. This evening, our group gathered for a welcome toast and our first dinner together. We dined at a quaint, family-owned restaurant that has become a tradition for us on this tour. Tonight, we were treated to a delicious four-course meal, showcasing the warmth and hospitality of true Italian[…]