Alba is known as home to Piedmont’s authentic Truffle (tartufo). Besides all the truffle recipes, local menus offer a selection roasted pigeon, quail risotto and pear semifreddo ice creams.

Alba is best known for the truffle, a fungus that is used as a garnish, imparting a rich flavor to all manner of dishes, from savory to sweet. Chefs and gourmands vie for the best truffles, ranging in price from a few dollars for a small, black one to over $700 for a prized white truffle, to use in the night's recipes. Shaved over pasta dishes and used in sauces, or blended into condiments, the truffle's distinctive flavor adds to almost any dish. The Piedmont region is known for its use of butter, rice and polenta, unlike the southern regions of Italy. The most famous of the Piedmont recipes is the bagna caoda, where fresh vegetables are dipped into a communal pot of warm oil and spices, similar to a fondue.

Desserts revolve around chocolate, as recipes involving the use of it in bicerin, a foamy sweet beverage with layers of espresso, chocolate and whipped cream, that date back to the 1600's. The ingredient has been perfected throughout the ages; including rich bites of candy filled with hazelnut/chocolate pastes call ginaduiotti, and sumptuous desserts. Nutella, a hazelnut chocolate spread, was born in this city and finds its way into many of the desserts.

Alba is a sophisticated town is known for its fine food and excellent shopping, especially along Via Maestra. The chocolate manufacturer Ferrero is a major employer in the region, employing up to half the population in its production of it's tasty treats, including Nutella and Ferrero Rocher candies. The Alba Music festival is held in the summer, while the major truffle fairs are held throughout the fall.

speaking about the month of February our thoughts immediately go to the most  amusing  event of the year: the Carnival. If Rio’s Carnival is  surely the most crazy among the Carnival all over the world, it is surely Venice’s Carnival the most  charming. In the first part of Cicero we are going to tell you about this great Italian event, attracting  thousands of visitors. With the hope to see you in Venice next year.

From North East our virtual trip takes you to North West. Trips2 Italy invites you to reach “the five lands” in Liguria: one of the most delightful sites  you have ever seen in your life, belonging to the World Heritage list.

But if you can visit Liguria whenever you want and  Carnival in Venice every year, there is something you can’t miss in Italy in Year 2010: go on reading Cicero and you will discover which great opportunity  this year reserves for you.

At last, an amusing news about an Italian invention. Eccentric  but  surely – believe us – excessive! Of course in Italy – like everywhere in the world – travellers can meet with some mishaps. We will be pleased anytime  to give you suggestion to travel safely. So, please do not worry and just  smile reading the last article and thinking about your next trip to Italy.

Enjoy the reading, enjoy your virtual trip!

Tommaso De Poi
CEO Trips2Italy Group

This Cicero Newsletter features :

- VENICE CARNIVAL : A FANTASTIC TRAVEL IN A WORLD OF IMAGINATION

- LIGURIA 5 TERRE (THE FIVE LANDS)

- PIEDMONT: SORDEVOLO PASSION PLAY

- NAPLES GENIALITY

These packages dedicated to the Amalfi Coast offer interesting activities and experiences for individuals or groups, based on your travel plans and needs.

You can easily purchase your favorite Sorrento & Amalfi Coast guided tour and Sightseeing on our Italy travel Online-shop or simply calling us at 1-866 - GO ITALY (46-85259) for any question or further information you may need.   

GUIDED WALKING TOURS OF AMALFI COAST, SORRENTO & NAPLES

At the Moment not Available

AMALFI COAST, NAPLES & SORRENTO SIGHTSEEING GUIDED TOURS

AMALFI COAST DRIVE TOUR - Sightseeing Excursion from Sorrento Enjoy some of Italy's most charming coastal towns on this full day sightseeing driving tour! You'll experience a day of sun, history and beauty as you make your way up and down the Amalfi Coast. 

CAPRI & ANACAPRI DAY TOUR - Sightseeing Excursion from Sorrento Crystal blue waters, lush green gardens, craggy rocks and brightly painted homes are all a part of the vista as you enjoy a tour of Capri and Anacapri. This full day guided excursion by motor coach and boat will take you to the highlights of Capri, on the Amalfi Coast.  

HALF DAY POMPEII GUIDED TOUR - Sightseeing from Sorrento Experience the wonder of a city frozen in eternity as you enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of historic Pompeii. This half day excursion of one of Italy's "open air museums" will enlighten you to the history of Pompeii and the disasters that befell it.  

HALF DAY HERCOLANEUM GUIDED TOUR - Sightseeing from Sorrento Ancient frescoes, detailed statues, intricate mosaics of long dead gods and dwelling places preserved by lava flows are revealed on a guided sightseeing tour of Herculaneum. This half day excursion will astonish you with the every day details of an ancient civilization.  

HALF DAY VESUVIO GUIDED TOUR - Sightseeing from Sorrento History and power collide on this excursion to the only active volcano on the European mainland. Vesuvius, the destroyer of Pompeii and Herculaneum, is the destination of this active, guided sightseeing tour. 

FULL DAY POMPEII AND VESUVIO TOUR - Sightseeing from Sorrento Like Sid and Nancy, Pompeii and Vesuvius are two lovers forever combined in destruction. This full day guided sightseeing tour will take you to Pompeii, a once bustling town depopulated by catastrophe, and to Mt. Vesuvius, the volcano that menaced Pompeii, until finally destroying it in 79 AD. 

FULL DAY POMPEII AND HERCOLANEUM TOUR - Sightseeing from Sorrento Sisters in time, Pompeii and Herculaneum were destroyed by the same volcanic eruptions in 79AD. This full day guided sightseeing excursion will take you to these uniquely preserved sites, enabling you to get a feel for ancient Roman life. 

NAPLES CITY TOUR - Sightseeing from Sorrento Naples, home of the pizza and six string guitar, is the pleasurable focus of this full day excursion. The guided sightseeing tour encompasses the historical center and a visit to National Archaeological Museum. 

DAY TOURS AND ESCURSION FROM AMALFI COAST, SORRENTO, NAPLES

CAPRI & ANA CAPRI TOUR Crystal blue waters, lush green gardens, craggy rocks and brightly painted homes are all a part of the vista as you enjoy a tour of Capri and Anacapri. This full day guided excursion by motor coach and boat will take you to the highlights of Capri, on the Amalfi Coast.
 

FULL DAY CASERTA AND CASSINO TOUR - Excursion Guided tour from Sorrento Cassino and Caserta have been the site of many historic battles, and set pieces for recent movies. Come along and enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of their beautiful abbeys and palaces, and learn more about the story of the Italian people.

FULL DAY SALERNO AND PAESTUM TOUR - Excursion tour from Sorrento Salerno and Paestum encompass 24 centuries of Italian history, from Grecian colonies to the Allied landing in WWII. This full day guided excursion highlights ruins, museums and cathedrals that will guide you to a better understanding of Italy.

ISCHIA ISLAND AND LA MORTELLA GARDENS TOUR - Excursion tour from Sorrento Enjoy a charming excursion to Ischia Island, and relax! Thermal spas, museums and the La Mortella Gardens are all a part of this full day guided sightseeing tour.

ISCHIA ISLAND AND THERMAL SPA TOUR - Excursion tour from Sorrento Paradise has been found, and you’re welcome to enjoy it on a full day guided sightseeing tour of Ischia Island and its thermal spas. You’ll see the sandy beaches, green gardens and enjoy several hours of spa pampering in the warm, mineral rich waters.

FULL DAY ROME TOUR - Excursion tour from Sorrento Rome offers you a slice of her hustle and bustle on this full day sightseeing excursion to the most popular museums and monuments. You’ll have plenty of freedom to enjoy the Vatican State and Imperial Forum with the comfort of having a tour escort nearby.

”The genius and his invention” - this is the name of the exhibition - lies in the historical Palazzo della Cancelleria.  About fifty full scale inventions are presented: some flying machines, like the precursor to the parachute, a bicycle, a hydraulic saw, and many other machines. Most of them are made of wood. They are not just models as they are all fully operational and can be touched. Machines interactivity plays the key role, as it helps to understand the genius of Leonardo. A deep interactive experience is granted and the machines are built with special processes to stand up to many visitors. The exhibition is divided and grouped into 5 sections: the four elements of nature - water, air, earth and fire, and the mechanism section.

Leonardo Da Vinci. The genius and his inventions.
Palazzo della Cancelleria – Rome
April 30, 2009 -  April 30, 2010

 To read more about Rome and the related packages

To practice outdoor sports in the grand setting of the Dolomites is unforgettable experience, you enjoy such options as downhill skiing, cross country skiing, ski mountaineering, snowboarding, free climbing or strolling through it’s valleys. 
The Ambassador and permanent Delegate of Spain to UNESCO, Maria Jesus San Segundo,
who chairs The World Heritage Committee, recently included the Dolomites in the World Heritage list of 890 properties. It was officially acknowledged that they feature one of the most spectacular mountain-landscapes on the planet. 

To read more about winter packages special offers:

Although it is an UNESCO site, Alberobello is unfortunately rather unknown. In a place of rolling green hills, dotted with almond and olive trees, not far from Bari and Taranto (Apulia), you cannot miss visiting the town, named for the primitive forests of Arboris belli, which once covered the area, where over 1000 trulli mass together.

Trulli are curious, white, rounded houses, with conical, grey stone roofs; you can admire them only here, in the Valley of Itria. They are built with the dry-stone technique and their architecture is very rustic.
Their origin is unknown, but a story claims that at the very beginning of XVII century, the trulli houses became urban residences for peasants, thanks to an Earl, Jean Jerome Acquaviva, who encouraged them to settle there for tax evasion purposes.
According to an edict issued by the Aragonese family, he was not allowed to build new urban areas without the king’s permission. Moreover, anyone creating a new house had to pay heavy taxes. So peasants built the trulli houses with a dry stone technique and a “pinnacle” on the roof’s top, where a rope was tied.
In case of inspections by the king’s tax collector, they dismantled the houses, sometimes by the help of a horse, pulling  the rope and destroying it. As trulli are very rustic, it was then very easy to erect a new trullo  on the site of the previous one. 
Nowadays, they are firmly planted and buttressed with stucco. Today the most ancient trullo dates 1557, with the year written on the big trullo's architrave.
The trullo sovrano has been converted into a museum illustrating the history of the trulli.

To read more about Alberobello and Trulli’s history or to plan a trip to Apulia:

It is here that visitors from around the world have come since the golden age of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and th' Medicis.  And it is here where the purest form of the Italian language, derived from the Tuscan dialect of native sons Dante, Petrarch, and  Boccaccio, was born – a tribute to the importance of their literary works.  Still spoken in the area between Siena and Arezzo, even visitors with limited knowledge of the language can often hear the difference.

Toscana is an adventure into the timeless beauty of both the past and present.

Walk down the narrow, medieval streets of Siena, lined with ancient mansions, stop in the incredible Gothic cathedral, experience the annual festival!  This well-preserved medieval city is home to the Civic Museum where the Histories of Alexander III are kept, the Museum of the Opera Metropolitana and the Pinacoteca Nazionale.  And then there’s  Pisa, an ancient Roman naval base and home to the famed leaning tower and the Museum of the Sinopie, where the preparatory drawings for the frescoes are held.  These and smaller towns like Lucca, Volterra, and Montepulciano contain some of Italy’s most famous landmarks, museums and artistic treasures.

The city of Florence, (Firenze) is a world of discovery!  Streets of remarkable shopping, enchanting restaurants and awesome art are only the beginning. The hub of the Renaissance and one of the world’s most architecturally beautiful cities, Firenze is home to countless museums and galleries filled with centuries-old preserved masterpieces -- the Galleria degli Uffizi, which holds the most important collection of paintings in the world, the Gallery of Palazzo Pitti, with Tiziano’s and Raffaello’s masterpieces, the Opera del Duomo with Michelangelo’s famous “Pietà”.  There is also the Museum of the Bargello, St. Mark’s Museum, the Academy, Gallery and the Ethnologic Museum Stibbert, and ageless beauty in other forms at the Museum of the Costume and the Museum of the Carriages, at the Giardino di Boboli, home to beautiful Italian gardens.

Visit Arezzo for jewelry, antiques and to experience the excitement of the annual medieval Palios --  bareback horse races.  The fiercely competitive contests between local teams are accompanied by large processions and a host of celebratory festivities.  Go here, too, for the enormous antique sale held the first weekend of each month on the  Piazza Grande.  Or take a scenic drive through the hills of Tuscany to the quaint town of San Gimignano, heart of Toscana’s pastoral countryside and known as the "town of the fine towers" for the thirteen 700-year-old ramparts that still stand!  Here you’ll discover the typical flora of Toscana—the vine, olive, and cypress -- a tree sacred to the Etruscans.

Like an island in the heart of Tuscany and just south of Siena, is Montalcino -- famous for its "brunello" wine -- one of the best and most sought after wines of Italy. The extraordinary wines from this area have put Italian wines on the world map!  Achieving recognition and worldwide popularity, wines from this serene town in the hills are as coveted by wine enthusiasts as are those from Tuscana’s Chianti region.

A tapestry of classical beauty and romantic places, Tuscan cities, towns and villages capture the senses in sight, sound and motion!  From the beautiful hilly landscapes, often covered in grape vines and olive groves or a bevy of sunflowers, to the teaming towers, the architectural masterpieces and extraordinary art, to the elegant boutiques of designer fashions, the animated sounds of the Carnevale and the peel of church bells ringing, the art of living in Toscana is itself a fine art.

From ROME to VENICE
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Rome, Assisi, Siena, Florence, Bologna, Padua, Venice

Italy Escorted Tour Departures (Click on the dates for Trips2Italy pricing and details)

TRAVEL ITINERARY:

DAY 01 (Monday – Saturday): ROME, ASSISI, SIENA, FLORENCE

You'll be picked up at the assigned meeting point in the historical center of Rome at 7:15 am, by motor coach, to start your sightseeing tour. The first stop will be in charming Assisi, where you'll have free time to wander the streets. We suggest you to visit the Basilica of St. Francis, home of the famous saint. After you enjoy lunch (not included) the tour will continue to Siena. Known for its rich medieval history and the Palio horse race, you'll want to take plenty of pictures here. When you have completed the stop, the bus will continue to Florence, where you'll have dinner and get a good night's rest.

DAY 02 (Tuesday – Sunday): FLORENCE

The day starts with breakfast, to prepare you for a pleasant day, and continues with a tour of Florence. Called the Cradle of the Renaissance, you will marvel at Florence's art, architecture and churches created by the Masters. You'll stop at the Florence Cathedral called Duomo, with its Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery, with doors so beautiful that Michelangelo called them the Gates of Paradise. The Piazza Della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio and the Santa Croce Basilica are also on the tour. The afternoon will be at your leisure, where you can choose to shop or visit the Accademia Gallery with the famous Michelangelo’s David or the Uffizi Gallery (not included.) You may decide you'd rather go on an optional tour of Pisa, and see its famous leaning tower and adjoining cathedral. In the evening you'll enjoy dinner and a final night in Florence.

DAY 03 (Wednesday – Monday):  FLORENCE, BOLOGNA, PADUA, VENICE

You'll enjoy breakfast, before boarding the motor coach to Bologna. Bologna is a mostly pedestrian city, so you will be able to take magnificent pictures of the Podesta Palace, Piazza del Nettuno and the Basilica of San Petronio. After lunch (not included), you'll continue on to Padua, home to many beautiful churches and the one of the oldest university with its famous botanical garden and its ancient anatomical theatre. You'll stop at the Basilica of St Anthony, with its many lovely frescoes. The motor coach will then continue on to Venice, known for its beauty, art and gondolas. You'll have dinner and spend the night in Venice.

DAY 04 (Thursday – Tuesday): VENICE

After breakfast at the hotel, end of services.

PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Transportation by Deluxe motor coach as per itinerary;
- Accommodation in 1st Category or 2nd Category Hotels in double/twin rooms with private facilities;
- Buffet breakfast daily;
- 3 Dinners as per itinerary;
- Multilingual Tour-Escort;
- Panoramic Visits as per itinerary;
- Porterage Service: Just 1 piece of luggage per person ONLY in Florence and Venice (No porterage in the other cities);
- Local Taxes and service Charges.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes and Surcharges Fee(s) assessed by the Airlines.
- Beverages.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- All what is not mentioned in “PACKAGE INCLUDES”.

GENERAL CONDITION:
Multi language escorted group tour.
All departure are Guaranteed.

(*) Rate based on two adult persons sharing a double or twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are available at an additional supplement. Children’s, triple room rates and alternative accommodation arrangements are available upon request. (Additional and different charges may apply).

From ROME to ROME
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Rome, Assisi, Siena, Florence, Bologna, Padua, Venice, Chianti region, Val d’Orcia, Montepulciano,  Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri with overnight on the Island

Italy Escorted Tour Departures (Click on the dates for Trips2Italy pricing and details)

TRAVEL ITINERARY:

DAY 1 (Sunday – Friday): ROME

Arrival at Rome Airport and transfer to your Hotel on your own.
Overnight at your hotel in the Eternal City.

DAY 2 (Monday – Saturday): ROME, ASSISI, SIENA, FLORENCE

You'll be picked up at the assigned meeting point in the historical center of Rome at 7:15 am, by motor coach, to start your sightseeing tour. The first stop will be in charming Assisi, where you'll have free time to wander the streets. We suggest you to visit the Basilica of St. Francis, home of the famous saint. After you enjoy lunch (not included) the tour will continue to Siena. Known for its rich medieval history and the Palio horse race, you'll want to take plenty of pictures here. When you have completed the stop, the bus will continue to Florence, where you'll have dinner and get a good night's rest.

DAY 3 (Tuesday – Sunday): FLORENCE

The day starts with breakfast, to prepare you for a pleasant day, and continues with a tour of Florence. Called the Cradle of the Renaissance, you will marvel at Florence's art, architecture and churches created by the Masters. You'll stop at the Florence Cathedral called Duomo, with its Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery, with doors so beautiful that Michelangelo called them the Gates of Paradise. The Piazza Della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio and the Santa Croce Basilica are also on the tour. The afternoon will be at your leisure, where you can choose to shop or visit the Accademia Gallery with the famous Michelangelo’s David or the Uffizi Gallery (not included.) You may decide you'd rather go on an optional tour of Pisa, and see its famous leaning tower and adjoining cathedral. In the evening you'll enjoy dinner and a final night in Florence.

DAY 4 (Wednesday – Monday):  FLORENCE, BOLOGNA, PADUA, VENICE

You'll enjoy breakfast, before boarding the motor coach to Bologna. Bologna is a mostly pedestrian city, so you will be able to take magnificent pictures of the Podesta Palace, Piazza del Nettuno and the Basilica of San Petronio. After lunch (not included), you'll continue on to Padua, home to many beautiful churches and the one of the oldest university with its famous botanical garden and its ancient anatomical theatre. You'll stop at the Basilica of St Anthony, with its many lovely frescoes. The motor coach will then continue on to Venice, known for its beauty, art and gondolas. You'll have dinner and spend the night in Venice.

DAY 5 (Thursday – Tuesday): VENICE

After breakfast, you'll board a vaporetto to visit St. Mark's Square and the Doge palace (external). You'll tour the outside of the palace, and take in the majesty of this residence of the duke, with its carved marble and bronze accents. The Bridge of Sighs is also nearby, which connects to the prison where Casanova was held for 5 years. Afterwards, there will be a stop at one of the Murano glass workshops, where you can watch the artisans at work. The afternoon is free, giving you time to shop, enjoy a cappuccino or take a gondola ride (not included.) Dinner will be with the group and you'll spend the night in Venice.

DAY 6 (Friday – Wednesday): VENICE, TUSCANY, MONTEPULCIANO, ROME

Breakfast will be enjoyed at the hotel, and, afterwards, you'll board the motor coach to reach back Tuscany. Make sure the batteries in your camera are charged, as you will want to take many, many pictures! You'll see the rolling landscapes, charming farm houses and churches and magnificent castles. Driving through the Chianti region and Val D’Orcia, the group will stop in Montepulciano, a town rich in art and history, where you'll participate in a wine tasting and have free time to explore the town. The motor coach will continue back to Rome. The motor coach will continue back to Rome, where we will spend the night.

DAY 7 (Saturday – Thursday): ROME
After breakfast, you'll depart on a walking tour of Rome, touring its historical beauties. You'll admire by St. Peter's Square, Navona Square, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and a visit inside the Pantheon. The afternoon will be free, and you have the chance to shop, enjoy a gelato or visit the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel (not included.) You'll spend the night in Rome.

DAY 8 (Sunday – Friday): ROME, NAPLES, POMPEII, SORRENTO

You'll enjoy breakfast at the hotel and the motor coach will depart to Naples, traveling along the scenic Sun Route motorway, through the regions of Lazio and Campania. There will be a panoramic city tour of Naples, showing the Mergillina, Castel dell'Ovo, Plebescito Square, the Royal Palace, Maschio Angioino and the port. You'll enjoy lunch on the way to Pompeii, where you'll visit the excavations of this historic location, destroyed by the Vesuvius eruption in AD 79. Afterwards, we'll drive along the Sorrentine coast and arrive in Sorrento for dinner and the night.

DAY 9 (Monday – Saturday): SORRENTO
 
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, while you have the day to yourself in Sorrento. Visit the shops, tour the historic churches, or just enjoy the scenery while enjoying a lunch fresh from the bay with delicious homemade Lemoncello. You will have also the opportunity to take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast visiting Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. You'll return to the hotel for dinner and a good night's rest.

DAY 10 (Tuesday – Sunday): SORRENTO, CAPRI

After breakfast, we'll board the ferry to the Isle of Capri (sea conditions permitting,) and take small rowing boats to the Blue Grotto (sea conditions permitting). You'll have free time to enjoy this charming island, and lunch with the group. In the afternoon, transfer to your Hotel in Capri. Dinner and overnight at your Hotel hotel.

DAY 11 (Wednesday – Monday): CAPRI, ROME

You'll enjoy breakfast and free time this morning, to strolling around the famous Piazzetta with the famous boutiques and artisans shops or enjoy some relax in one of the beautiful Capri beaches. In the afternoon, embark the jetfoil to the coast and by motor coach will depart to Rome to spend the night at your Hotel.

DAY 12 (Thursday – Tuesday): ROME

After breakfast at the hotel, the tour, and our services, will end.

PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Transportation by Deluxe motor coach as per itinerary;
- Accommodation in 1st Category and 2nd Category Hotels in double/twin rooms with private facilities;
- Buffet breakfast daily;
- 7 Dinners and 2 Lunches as per itinerary;
- Multilingual Tour-Escort;
- Panoramic Visits as per itinerary;
- Porterage Service: Just 1 piece of luggage per person ONLY in Florence and Venice (No porterage in the other cities);
- Local Taxes and service Charges.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes and Surcharges Fee(s) assessed by the Airlines.
- Beverages.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- All what is not mentioned in “PACKAGE INCLUDES”.

GENERAL CONDITION:
Multi language escorted group tour.
All departure are Guaranteed.

(*) Rate based on two adult persons sharing a double or twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are available at an additional supplement. Children’s, triple room rates and alternative accommodation arrangements are available upon request. (Additional and different charges may apply).

Monte Bianco, Monte Cervino, Dolomites ,… are just a few of the popular breathtaking skiing locations in Italy. Mountains there  ensure formidable  skiing: some spots are a legend for experienced skiers, others are perfect for beginners; anywhere the landscape is stunning.

Options include downhill skiing, cross skiing, ski mountaineering, snowboarding, free climbing or simply walking. Our packages offer different solutions. Travellers have just to choose the destination and the departure date. Trips2Italy will think about all the rest, to make your white-week memorable.

Select here below your favourite Italy Skiing vacation package , you will be able to purchase your unique Italian Ski vacation on our Travel Online-Shop or if you prefer call us at 1 – 866 GO ITALY (46-48259) for any question or further information you may need.

CORTINA                                 
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Click on your week preference...your Italian Ski vacation starts here!

                                                                                                                                   
        Ski Week from 9 Jan to 17 Jan 2009                                                             
        Ski Week from 16 Jan to 24 Jan 2009
        Ski Week from 23 Jan to 31 Jan 2009
        Ski Week from 30 Jan to 7 Feb 2009
        Ski Week from 6 Feb to 14 Feb 2009
        Ski Week from 13 Feb to 21 Feb 2009
        Ski Week from 20 Feb to 28 Feb 2009
        Ski Week from 27 Feb to 7 Mar 2009
        Ski Week from 6 Mar to 14 Mar 2009
        Ski Week from 13 Mar to 21 Mar 2009
        Ski Week from 20 Mar to 28 Mar 2009
        Ski Week from 27 Mar to 4 Apr 2009

                                           
BORMIO                                   
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Click on your week preference...your Italian Ski vacation starts here!

                                                                            Ski Week from 9 Jan to 17 Jan 2009    
         Ski Week from 16 Jan to 24 Jan 2009     
         Ski Week from 23 Jan to 31 Jan 2009  
         Ski Week from 30 Jan to 7 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 6 Feb to 14 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 13 Feb to 21 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 20 Feb to 28 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 27 Feb to 7 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 6 Mar to 14 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 13 Mar to 21 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 20 Mar to 28 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 27 Mar to 4 Apr 2009
         Ski Week from 3 Apr to 11 Apr 2009
         Ski Week from 10 Apr to 18 Apr 2009
         Ski Week from 17 Apr to 25 Apr 2009

COURMAYEUR                           
SKI 2 ITALY PACKAGES

Click on your week preference...your Italian Ski vacation starts here!

         Ski Week from 9 Jan to 17 Jan 2009
         Ski Week from 16 Jan to 24 Jan 2009
         Ski Week from 23 Jan to 31 Jan 2009 
         Ski Week from 30 Jan to 7 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 6 Feb to 14 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 13 Feb to 21 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 20 Feb to 28 Feb 2009
         Ski Week from 27 Feb to 7 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 6 Mar to 14 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 13 Mar to 21 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 20 Mar to 28 Mar 2009
         Ski Week from 27 Mar to 4 Apr 2009
         Ski Week from 3 Apr to 11 Apr 2009 
         Ski Week from 10 Apr to 18 Apr 2009 
                                                                           Ski Week from 17 Apr to 25 Apr 2009

CERVINIA                                
SKI 2 ITALY PACKAGES

Click on your week preference...your Italian Ski vacation starts here!

                                                                         Ski Week from 9 Jan to 17 Jan 2009
     Ski Week from 16 Jan to 24 Jan 2009 
     Ski Week from 23 Jan to 31 Jan 2009
     Ski Week from 30 Jan to 7 Feb 2009
     Ski Week from 6 Feb to 14 Feb 2009
     Ski Week from 13 Feb to 21 Feb 2009
     Ski Week from 20 Feb to 28 Feb 2009
     Ski Week from 27 Feb to 7 Mar 2009
     Ski Week from 6 Mar to 14 Mar 2009
     Ski Week from 13 Mar to 21 Mar 2009
     Ski Week from 20 Mar to 28 Mar 2009
     Ski Week from 27 Mar to 4 Apr 2009
     Ski Week from 3 Apr to 11 Apr 2009
     Ski Week from 10 Apr to 18 Apr 2009
     Ski Week from 17 Apr to 25 Apr 2009

SESTRIERE
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Click on your week preference...your Italian Ski vacation starts here!

                                                                         Ski Week from 9 Jan to 17 Jan 2009                
      Ski Week from 16 Jan to 24 Jan 2009
      Ski Week from 23 Jan to 31 Jan 2009
      Ski Week from 30 Jan to 7 Feb 2009 
      Ski Week from 6 Feb to 14 Feb 2009
      Ski Week from 13 Feb to 21 Feb 2009
      Ski Week from 20 Feb to 28 Feb 2009
      Ski Week from 27 Feb to 7 Mar 2009
      Ski Week from 6 Mar to 14 Mar 2009
      Ski Week from 13 Mar to 21 Mar 2009
      Ski Week from 20 Mar to 28 Mar 2009
      Ski Week from 27 Mar to 4 Apr 2009
      Ski Week from 3 Apr to 11 Apr 2009
      Ski Week from 10 Apr to 18 Apr 2009
      Ski Week from 17 Apr to 25 Apr 2009

If all this hasn't prompted you to get your skies out of storage...find out with us where, how and when to enjoy the best Italian ski resorts in the Alps...You only have to decide who bring!

                              Ciao

                                         The Italian Ski Team

This is the choice for those travellers seeking something very specific. Specific, no matter what. Feel free to ask us to create your own, very personal itinerary.

                                 Trips2italy will help you to create something really special and unique, for lifelong memories.

The region also boasts an attractive coastline. The deep blue waters in this area conceal a startling variety of marine life and the shore borders on a series of sand dunes covered with typical Mediterranean marquis. There are some highly characteristic one-man fishing posts (called trabocchi) which are small huts built on piles. The sandy shores along the 140 km coast alternate with pebbly beaches surrounded by green hills covered with mulberries, strawberry trees, broom and also the smell of liquorices, lentiscus and pine forests.

It is just a short trip from the seaside resorts, projected into the future as modern coastal towns, to all kinds of landscapes ranging from the winding Apennines with their towering peaks and Calderone glacier, the southernmost in the whole of Europe, to highlands offering magnificent views across a picturesque landscape of woodlands, waterfalls, and caves.

The natural environment is protected by three National Parks: Abruzzo, Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, and Maiella. Rare species of flora and fauna (the Marsicano bear, Apennine wolf and Abruzzo chamois) are the most distinctive features of what is still a truly fascinating natural setting.

The main city L’Aquila, the old towns and villages knit perfectly into the countryside as evidence of a pastoral tradition stretching back throughout the region’s history.

Length: 2 hours 
Available: all year from Monday to Saturday
Departure time: at 10 AM
Meeting point: in the historical center – to be advised upon reservation Reservation

Tour Highlights: Gastronomy Market - Food Tasting.
Available in the following languages: English.
Price includes: English speaking guide, food tasting, Local  taxes and Service Charges.
 

Detailed itinerary:

Shop as the Florentines do, in this guided tasting tour of the Mercato Centrale (the central market) at San Lorenzo! Our chef will accompany you to this colorful market, where you'll learn how to choose the ripest fruits and vegetables for your meals. As you wander amongst the locals, you'll taste fresh cheeses, salamis, olive oils and Chianti wine, and learn about the local products and the Tuscan gastronomy. This is a marvelous way to get a feel for the real Florence, away from the hordes of tourists and indulging yourself in the Italian food specialties.
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Duomo
The Duomo of Orvieto is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Italy. The façade of the Duomo of Orvieto is structured like a triptych, and is richly decorated in a dazzling mixture of polychrome marble, sculptures and mosaics. The middle entrance and the central rose window were designed by Andrea Orgagna in the 14th century.The interior is partly Romanesque in style, whereas the presbyterium is Gothic. Compared with other cathedrals in Europe, the Duomo of Orvieto is less formally linear and uses a greater variety of materials.

The Duomo is known for the Last Judgement cycle of frescoes by Luca Signorelli, and the magnificent bronze portals of the Duomo were completed by Emilio Greco, a sculptor whose name has become synonymous with Orvieto also thanks to the collection of 32 bronze sculptures and 60 graphic works and prints that he donated to the city and which are currently housed in the 14th century Palazzo Soliano, next to the cathedral.

Cappella Nuova – San Brizio Chapel
The Cappella Nuova is one of the best known masterpieces of Renaissance Italian art. The chapel was built between 1406 and 1425 and Beato Angelico and Luca Signorelli worked on the decorations of the entire chapel.

Faina Archeological Museum
The Museo Faina contains one of Italy’s finest archaeological collections, brought together by two aristocrats, Mauro and Eugenio Faina, who from 1864 went personally on digs and acquired items on the open market. Located in Palazzo Faina, the Museo Claudio Faina is directly opposite the Duomo and extends on two floors of the building.

Well of Saint Patrick
Built in 1527 and commissioned by Pope Clement VII, the Pozzo di San Patrizio was designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger to supply water to the city in the event of a siege. The well takes its name from St Patrick because of its alleged similarity to the cave the saint is believed to have used as a retreat for penitence and prayer. The ingenious design of the well was built in such a way that those descending with their mules or donkeys would never meet those ascending in the opposite direction.

The Pozzo della Cava
A vast, 36-metre-deep hole originally dug by the Etruscans as a well and enlarged between 1527 and1530 by order of Pope Clement VII to supply water to Orvieto in the event of a siege. In 1646 the well was closed after five French officers were hurled down the pit in a brawl.

Palazzo dei Sette and Torre del Moro
Recently refurbished as a cultural centre, the Palazzo dei Sette and the Torre del Moro once belonged to the Della Terza family. The complex then passed into the hands of the Church and was used by the city’s ‘seven’-member government, hence its name.

The first door to the right leads to the Torre del Moro. There are two bells in the tower, one is particularly rare and dates from 1313. Its rim is engraved with the symbols of the city’s 25 crafts and with the symbol of the people of Orvieto. The top of the tower’s 47-metre-high vantage point commands views over the entire city and its surrounding dominions. A stone slab on the corner with Via della Costituente is inscribed with a tetraine from Dante’s Purgatory that refers the feud between two Orvieto families, the Monaldeschi and the Filippeschi.

Palazzo Soliano and the Museo Emilio Greco
Known also as the Palazzo di Bonifacio VIII, Palazzo Soliano is believed by some historians to have been erected by order of Pope Boniface VIII. Today the building still belongs to the Church

Palazzo Soliano houses the collection of the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, which includes a number of fine works from the Renaissance through to Mannerism and the 19th century. The collection includes paintings by Giovanno Lanfranco, Girolamo Muziano, Federico Zuccaro, Cesare Nebbia, Pomarancio, as well as a valuable collection of drawings by Ippolito Scalza, and Cesare Nebbia’s plans for the adaptation of the frescoes in the Duomo.

The lower part of the building houses the Museo Emilio Greco, dedicated to Emilio Greco, the artist responsible for the design of the magnificent doors of the cathedral. Some 100 works by Greco are contained here.

Palazzo del Vescovado and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale
The Palazzo del Vescovado, or former bishop’s palace, dates back to the reign of Pope Benedict VII, who commissioned the building in 977 to be built next to the church of Santa Maria Prisca. Over the centuries the palace was enriched and sumptuously decorated by a succession of popes, cardinals and bishops.

Part of the palazzo houses the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, which contains the interesting Golini I and II tombs dating from the 4th century BC.

Palazzo del Capitano
Situated in Piazza del Popolo, the Palazzo del Capitano is a simple construction, in the typical style of the first stage of the city’s free Comune status. The construction of the palazzo began in the 13th century, possibly by order of Neri della Greca. Originally the Palazzo del Capitano was composed of a single ground floor loggia, used as a market place or for meetings, from which the magistrate would harangue the people. In 1578 the upper floors of the palazzo were used as a theatre for public performances financed by the Comune. In the first half of the 16th century the Accademia dei Giovani staged its productions here.

Recent restorations have found interesting archaeological remains beneath the building, including the foundations of a 5th century BC Etruscan temple and part of a Medieval aqueduct and cistern.

EVENTS

Umbria Jazz Winter
Umbria Jazz Winter offers five days of great music at the end of December and beginning of January in the setting of one of Umbria and Central Italy’s most beautiful, historic and noble cities.
Over the years, the Orvieto festival has attained a special place in the Italian music scene. The merit for this lies with the festival format, which brings together tourism, culture and music. Not to mention the fine local cuisine and wines. But merit for the festival’s success also lies with its program, which offers music for all tastes.

There are two key events. To give a warm welcome to 2005, on 31 December there are two New Year’s Eve dinners held to the sound of jazz, and these are followed by concerts after midnight. And on the afternoon of New Year’s Day, there is a special Mass for peace with gospel singers in Orvieto’s magnificent Cathedral.

Palio dell’Oca
Folk version of the ancient Noble horseback tournament, the Palio dell'Oca consists in inserting a long pole into the hole in the duck’s tub, which is full of water, while staying in equilibrium on a moving wagon. This is placed at a height of at two metres from the ground. The objective of the event is to maintain traditions and folk games, such as “the albero della cuccagna”,”the gioco delle pignatte” and “broche” which are followed by the Palio every year.

Procession of Corpus Domini
This extraordinary festival commemorates a miracle said to have happened in 1264, when a wandering priest from Prague on a pilgrimage to Rome stopped at a local church in nearby Bolsena, outside Santa Christina, to celebrate the Eucharist.
During the Mass he is said to have witnessed the Host bleeding copiously. His blood-stained habit, the Corporale, is still kept in the Catedrale dell'Corporale in Orvieto, and the church of Santa Christina in Bolsena where he stopped still contains the altar, marked with the remarkably well-preserved blood from the miracle.

The annual festival consists of a parade through the town in which more than 400 colourful costumed figures participate. There are also celebrations outside town, at the church of Santa Christina.

Gran Fondo degli Etruschi
In the month of June, this is a mountain bike race that runs for 82 km or the Medio Fondo which runs for 60.

Orvieto con Gusto
In October, wander through the town, enjoy the sights and savor the delights of Italian gastronomy. Workshops help refine your taste by comparing products and flavors.

FOOD

Orvieto’s cuisine follows the typical characteristics of Umbrian cooking, with a particular attention to recipes based on feathered game such as quail, partridge and turtledove.

Typical appetizers include ciriole, a type of rustic tagliatelle prepared with oil and garlic lightly fried, the strascinati, a type of maccheroni ruvidi with sausage and eggs, and finally the Umbrian spaghetti artigianali, made by hand and often served with grated black or white truffle.

Porchetta [roast sucking pig] is the queen of the main dishes; it is cooked in the wood oven, stuffed with vittles and flavored with garlic, pepper and finocchio selvatico. Other popular dishes include the beccacce alla norcina, with butter, thyme and black truffle, and the budellacci, smoked pig treated with salt, spices and finocchietto.

Dried fruit is a recurring ingredient in Umbrian desserts, which include the torciglione, the pinoccate, and maccheroni with the walnuts, a traditional Christmas dessert.

WINE

Umbrian cuisine is centered around extravirgin olive oil and local wines found in the region. The most well known wines in Orvieto are the Orvieto Classico, Forgiano, Montefalco, Colli del Trasimeno, Alto Tiberini, Colli Perugini, Martani and Amerini. Other fine wines include the Torgiano di Riserva and the Sagrantino di Montefalco.

Orvieto (DOC)
This ancient wine was known in antiquity as a favorite among popes and princes and is still produced in the area. The Orvieto Bianco is obtained from a combination of Trebbiano Toscano, known locally as Procanico (40-60%), Verdello (15-25%), Grechetto, Canaiolo Bianco (known locally as Drupeggio), and Malvasia Toscana (not above 20%). Other varieties of white grape can also be used, but not in proportions that exceed 15%. The straw yellow coloring of this wine gives way to a delicate bouquet that reveals an intense body, with a slightly bitter aftertaste. It is especially suitable either as an aperitivo or as a table wine served with pork dishes. The addition of Classico to the label indicates that the wine comes from the oldest production area. Superiore indicates that the wine has been launched on the market on March 1st after harvesting.
Rosso Orvietano or Orvientano Rosso (DOC)
The term "Rosso Orvietano" or "Orvietano Rosso" is used to indicate red wines that come from grapes grown within a specific area in the province of Terni, which comprises 14 Comuni, including that of Orvieto.

Orvieto’s history begins in the 9th-8th century BC, when the Etruscans settled on the crag for the first time. The Etruscan town was known as Velzna (Volsinii in Latin), a city that flourished economically in the 6th century BC, due to its production of china (bucchero) and bronze works.
 
From a political point of view, Velzna was at the forefront of the struggle against Roman expansionism. As a result, in 254 B.C., it was occupied by the enemy and ravaged. Following the destruction of the city its inhabitants were dispersed and forced to relocate to the highlands overlooking the lake of Bolsena. Velzna then became known as Volsinii Veteres (Ancient Volsinii) or Urbs Vetus (the Old City) and Bolsena was known as Volsinii Novi (New Volsinii).

During barbaric invasions, Orvieto was seized by Alarico and Odoacre. Vitige took advantage of its strategic natural position to create a defensive stronghold in the war against the Byzantines. The imperial general Belisarius succeeded in conquering the area after a bitter siege in 538 A.D.; it was then reoccupied temporarily by Totila before finally being defeated by the Goths.
 
In 596 A.D. Orvieto was occupied by the Longobard Agilulfo and gained its own bishop; later, in 606, it obtained counts. Count Farolfo, within the framework of the religious rebirth imposed by Emperor Otto III and in collaboration with Saint Romualdo, promoted the establishment of abbeys and monasteries in the surrounding territories. In the 11th century Orvieto became a Comune or City-State and noblemen from the area began to build towers and palaces.
The institution of the Comune is documented beginning in 1137. Twenty years later a treaty was signed with Pope Adriano IV, which increased papal influence in the city and gave way to the struggle between the Guelfs (the papal faction) and the Ghibellines (the imperialist faction). This struggle extended over a long period of time and marked the successive history of the city.
Orvieto soon became the Guelph stronghold of central Italy, holding out against the repeated attacks of the Ghibellines who had been expelled, and the emperors Frederick I and Henry IV. In 1199, the Pope appointed the first Podesta' of Orvieto, Piero Parenzo, who was later killed in the civic battles between the Monaldeschi (Guelphs) and the Filippeschi (Ghibellines).
In the meantime, the jurisdiction of the Comune was extended from Mount Amiata to Orbetello. Orvieto’s success can be seen in the flourishing construction during this period. Many churches were built including San Lorenzo degli Arari, San Francesco, San Domenico, and Santa Maria dei Servi as well as the Cathedral whose construction began in 1290. Public buildings were erected as well, including the Communal Palace, the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, and the Papal Palace.
In the years 1281-1284, Pope Martino IV established a seat in Orvieto.  With him he brought many Frenchmen against whom the citizens rebelled. Old battles were rekindled, and the Filippeschi (Ghibellines) were expelled in August of 1313. In 1334, Orvieto beheld its first Lord, Ermanno Monaldeschi della Cervara, who reigned until his death in 1337. In 1354 Cardinal Albornoz occupied Orvieto subjecting the city to papal rule. However, Orvieto preserved its communal institutions, later becoming the capital of the fifth province of the papal state.
In 1860 Orvieto was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy, which later became the Republic of Italy.

Orvieto, which has three popular claims to fame, its duomo, Classico wine, and ceramics, is always loaded with tourists during the day and usually quiet at night. Throughout the year Orvieto is host to various cultural events, popular celebrations and national and international festivals.

The most famous festival is the “Umbrian Winter Jazz” which takes place around New Year through the first days of January and includes performances by numerous outstanding international artists. The most important event of the festival, and one that should not be missed, is the Gospel concert in the Cathedral held on the 1st of January.  
 
Orvieto is also host to numerous folkloric events, like the Palio dell'Oca in the Spring, and religious celebrations, like the procession of Corpus Domini where the people of Orvieto wear historical costumes representing the most important inhabitants in Orvieto’s history during the Middle Ages. Another important event is the Feast of the Assumption, a procession which takes place on 14th August.

The magnificent Mancinelli Theatre hosts performances from October to March. And Orvieto also hosts numerous classical music concerts, like the church-music concert telecasted all over Europe at Easter.
 
Orvieto is also home to many international events organized in conjunction with foreign cultural associations including the Orvieto Music Program, which hosts a series of concerts by international musicians in various charming locations throughout the city.
   
Sports fans can take part in the "Gran Fondo degli Etruschi", a mountain-bike race organized in June.

There is also the “Orvieto con Gusto” Festival in mid October. Orvieto was chosen by the association “Arcigola” as one of the cities most suitable to host this event thanks to its slow rhythm of life and its delightful atmosphere - a perfect setting for a festival aimed at allowing people to rediscover ancient dishes and the pleasure of slowly savoring them.

Reservation and Payment: A deposit of $350.00 Usd per person is required at the time of Booking for Land Only, ( A different deposit is required for Air+Land packages). Reservation will be made upon receipt of deposit. Final payment is due (80) days before departure. Forms of payment accepted are Check, wire transfer or major credit cards and Agency checks. Credit card charges will be accepted by phone and upon submission of a completed Trips 2 Italy Universal Credit Card Authorization Form. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $30 fee for returned checks.
Trips2Italy,LCC, upon receipt of the initial deposit guarantees and protects against the currency fluctuation between Dollar and Euro (*). Airfares are subject to change prior to ticketing. The airline fare is guaranteed once ticketed.
Revisions: After confirmation and/or departure, each change made to the itinerary must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may incur in additional charges.
Cancellations and Deposit: Up to (100) One hundred days prior to departure, full refund less $100.00 per person administrative fee.
The following charges will be assessed if cancellation is received within:
Up to 100 Days prior to departure 350 USD per person**
From 100 to 80 days prior departure 25% of booking or minimum of 500 Usd per person**
From 79 to 45 days prior departure 50% of booking or minimum of 700 Usd per person plus any incurred expenses**
From 44 to 30 days prior departure 75% of booking or minimum of 850 Usd per person plus any incurred expenses**
From 29 to 15 days prior departure 85% of booking or minimum of 1,000 Usd per person plus any incurred expenses**
From 14 Days or less prior departure and No Shows No refund
After departure No refund for cancellation of any travel arrangements after departure or for any unused travel arrangements.
**Special circumstances may contain different cancellation/handling/change fees which may apply to certain hotels, airlines and other vendors.
Penalty will apply also in the case of war or terrorism in the final destination.
Travel insurance: is usually included in the tour. If the price does not include insurance it is strongly recommended and available for purchase at Trips2Italy,LLC.
Tour Cancellation:
Trips 2 Italy reserves the right to cancel or re-schedule any trip in conjunction with operating requirements and is not responsible for any other travel arrangements affected due to the cancellations. Escorted Tour packages are based upon a minimum number of participants; Non-Operation of escorted tour due to lack of participation will be advised at least 30 days prior the tour's departure. In such case, the operators’ sole responsibility is to provide a refund without any other liability whatsoever.
Trips 2 Italy will try to re-book the same or similar tour and, where flights have been confirmed by Trips 2 Italy, will attempt to confirm air seats for new dates selected, subject to availability. Trips 2 Italy is not responsible for cancellation penalties imposed by airlines or other transportation carriers.
Trips 2 Italy is not responsible for any other travel arrangement affected due to our cancellations.
Refunds: refund request must be received in writing within 15 days from date of return.
Unused land arrangements: No refund will be made for unused services after travel begin ( i.e. meals, sightseeing, tours, train tickets, transfers, hotel and car rental). Cost of various fees ( i.e. insurance, changes, and express mail) is not refundable.
Airlines tickets refund: Airline tickets are non-refundable once travel has commenced. Once Airlines tickets are issued, there is no refund. Penalties apply for changes made after issuance. Extended stay maybe considered on a case-by-case basis. Airfare is valid for specified date of travel.
Hotels: Accommodation will be provided in hotels mentioned in the proposal or similar category.
Prices: Hotel rates are per person, based on two persons sharing a double or a twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are provided at an additional supplement. Unless the customer has paid in full. No surcharges in respect of cost or currency fluctuation will be made once full payment is received. This guarantee excludes fuel surcharges and does not apply to any taxes, charges, levies and fees imposed by any government or their agencies. In exchange for these guarantees, no refund will be made if costs are reduced.
(*) Trips 2 Italy,LLC reserve the right to increase the prices agreed upon only if there is an increase of our costs of at least 5% or more such as, but not limited to increase in air, land, and fuel cost or currency fluctuations.
Baggage: On escorted Tours, handling of one piece of luggage per person is included (where it is possible). A charge of up to US$6 per Hotel accommodation will be collected by the Tour Director if a second piece of baggage is carried. However it cannot be guaranteed that more than one suitcase will be carried. Porterage at train stations is not included. Trips 2 Italy will not accept liability for any loss or damage to baggage or any of the passenger's belongings. Passengers should report any lost items to the Trips 2 Italy's Tour Director who will assist in completing a lost property form that can be used for any insurance claim in this matter. However, Trips 2 Italy cannot assist in locating any lost items once the passenger has returned home.
Airlines may impose stricter weight and size limits for luggage and may also charge fees for checked baggage, including the first checked bag. Please check with your airline(s) directly for baggage regulations and related fees. Trips 2 Italy is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers regarding baggage.
To avoid unnecessary concern, baggage insurance is strongly recommended and available for purchase at Trips 2 Italy ,LLC
Not Included in Tour Price:  Airport Taxes, Laundry, telephone calls, wines, liquors, mineral water, soft drinks, after dinner coffee or tea, meal not included in the itinerary, sightseeing or services other then specifically mentioned, tips to the tour director, motor coach driver when touring; local city guides; item of strictly personal nature, travel insurance and excess baggage. All what is not stated “what is included” in the details of the itinerary.
Vouchers/Documents: Travel documents will be mailed approx 21 days prior departure. Late booking is subject to a $50.00 per person surcharge when reservations are made 21 days prior the departure.
Limiting Terms and Conditions: The responsibility of Trips2Italy,LLC is strictly limited. As a tour operator, Trips2Italy,LLC organizes, promotes and sells tour programs consisting of certain travel services, limited to surface transportation, sightseeing excursion and hotel accommodations which Trips2Italy,LLC reserves from various suppliers. The suppliers providing these services, are independent contractors and are not agent or employees of Trips2Italy,LLC. Trips2Italy,LLC is not responsible for the willful or negligent acts and/or omissions of such suppliers of any of their representatives, including without limitation, their failure and/or inadequacy of delivery of services.
Trips2Italy,LLC assume NO LIABILITY for injury, property damage, or personal loss to you or those traveling with you in connection with any accommodations, transportation or other services directly or indirectly from any occurrence or conditions beyond its control, including but not limited to acts of terrorism, defect or vehicles, break-down equipment, strikes, theft, cancellation or changes in itinerary schedules.
Remember that all travel documents are traveler’s responsibility. The payment of required deposit or any other partial payment for a reservation for Hotel package/tour/group, constitutes consent to all provisions of the conditions and general information contained in the brochure. Trips2Italy,LLC accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses.

.... Every region is the custodian of a constantly changing treasure house of beauty. This unforgettable voyage will leads you through the timeless treasures of Rome to Florence's enchanting architecture, Venice's lavish palazzi, Tuscany's charming hills. Come with us to experience and enjoy Italy as you have born there...

MAGNIFICA ITALIA ESCORTED TOUR PACKAGE (9days/8nights) 

AIR & LAND pricing starting at $ 2,469 (**)
Trips 2 Italy package: PAU0016

TOUR DESCRIPTION :

DAY 01 DEPART USA  April 17th 2010 Saturday
Overnight flight to Rome from your airport of departure.

DAY 02 ARRIVE ROME  April 18th, 2010 Sunday
Upon arrival at the Rome airport, you will be met by your English speaking tour escort, board the coach and transfer to your 4**** centrally located hotel in Rome.
After you check in to your rooms, the rest of the day is at your leisure to discover the Eternal City.
Dinner on your own and overnight in Rome.

DAY 02 ROME (B, D)  April 19th,  2010 Monday
Breakfast at your hotel. This morning, you’ll join your local guide in a walking tour of the Ancient Rome and its famous squares and fountains. We will take you to the most famous sites of Rome, such the Colosseum (including a visit inside), the ancient Roman Forum, the famous Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, while learning more about the history and the present of the fascinating Italian capital.
Free afternoon at your leisure. Perhaps you would like to enjoy a gelato sitting on the famous Spanish Steps, shopping for Italian fashion and goodies or explore in depth the monuments and ancient ruins of Rome. In the evening join us for a fun and pleasant welcome dinner in a typical restaurant in Rome accompanied by some Italian musicians. After dinner return to your hotel and overnight in Rome.

DAY 03 ROME (B)  April 20th, 2010 Tuesday
Breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast transfer to the Vatican State for a fascinating guided tour of the Vatican Museum and Saint Peter’s Basilica. Accompanied by your local guide you’ll be visiting the highlights of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel with its legendary ceilings frescoed by Michelangelo. The guided tour will end inside the Saint Peter’s Basilica, with its famous dome and colonnade square. The afternoon is free at your leisure: if you wish you can climb over the Saint Peter’s Dome to admire a breathtaking panorama over the historical center of Rome or you could go with your tour escort in a stroll along the Tiber River and discover hidden treasures of the Eternal City.
Dinner on your own and overnight in Rome.

DAY 04 ROME – SIENA –   FLORENCE (B, D) April  21st, 2010 Wednesday
Breakfast at your hotel and check out.
This morning, you’ll board the coach and depart from Rome towards Florence and Tuscany. On the way we will stop in Siena, a medieval jewel settled in the breathtaking Tuscan countryside. This fortified town bristles with majestic buildings, churches and medieval pedestrian alleys that will accompany you to the heart of Siena: Piazza del Campo, the famous square, home of the historical Palio horses race.
Go back in time and experience the glorious past of this town in a pleasant walking tour with a local guide. After the tour free time for some souvenir shopping and lunch, before heading to Florence.
During the transfer be ready with your camera because you will pass by fortified villages on top of the hill, the famous Chianti vineyards, castles and olives groves, all of it equaling the perfect Tuscan panorama.
Late afternoon arrival in Florence and check in at your 4**** Hotel centrally located.        
Tonight experience a characteristic Tuscan dinner all together before retiring for the night.
Overnight at your Hotel in Florence.

 
DAY 05 FLORENCE (B) April 22nd, 2010 Thursday
Breakfast at your hotel. This morning, you’ll meet your local guide and enjoy a walking tour of Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance. We will explore the historical center, admiring the beautiful Piazza Duomo with the Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the famous Brunelleschi’s Dome. We’ll walk through the town and see Piazza della Signoria with its famous palace to the Ponte Vecchio, one of the icons of this beautiful city. In the afternoon free time at your leisure. Perhaps you would like to join our guided excursion to Pisa to admire the famous Leaning Tower and its historical center (Optional not Included) or visit two of the most important art museums in the world: the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery with the famous Michelangelo’s David and the major Renaissance masterpieces of Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and others. (Optional, not included.)
If you prefer you can spend some time at the open-air market that sprawls around Piazza San Lorenzo and the Mercato Centrale that offers leather goods and clothing at low prices, as traditional gourmet foods.
Dinner on your own and overnight in Florence.

 DAY 06 FLORENCE – PADUA – VENICE (B) April 23rd, 2010  Friday
After breakfast and check out from your Hotel in Florence, we will depart toward Venice. Along the way stop in Padua for a visit of the town and its historical center. Walking under the pedestrian arcaded alleys and along the small canals we will visit the St. Anthony of Padua ‘s Basilica where the shrines of the Saint are kept, the University of Padua, once of the oldest settled in 1222 and the famous historical Caffe’ Pedrocchi. Not to be missed is the magnificent Cappella degli Scrovegni, which is famous for Giotto’s frescoes. (Optional not included). Time for a light lunch or a cappuccino and we will head to Venezia Mestre and check in at your Hotel and time to relax. Meet again all together for a typical Venetian dinner and overnight at Hotel.

DAY 07 VENICE (B, D)  April 24th, 2010 Saturday
Breakfast at your Hotel before heading to Venice Island. Today we will discover the magic city of Venice with its canals, bridges, gondolas, ancient palaces and hidden treasures. Transfer by motor coach and board a boat excursion to the minor islands of the Venetian Lagoon: Murano, Burano and Torcello. In Murano we will have the opportunity to watch a glass artisan in his workshop transform a piece of glass in one of the beautiful and famous Murano glass creations. Return to Saint Mark area and free time for lunch or a snack.
In the afternoon meet with our guide for a pleasant walking tour in the historical center of Venice. Admire the Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal and the impressive Saint Mark Square with its Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Later in the afternoon return to your Hotel at your own pace and preference or accompanied by our tour escort . Dinner on your own and Overnight at your Hotel.

DAY 08 DEPART VENICE (B)  April 25th, 2010 Sunday
Breakfast at your Hotel and check out. Transfer to the airport for your return flight.
End of services and Ciao Italia!

PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Transportation by Deluxe motor coach and Water Taxi as per itinerary;
- Accommodation in 1st Category Hotels in double/twin rooms with private facilities;
- Daily Buffet breakfast;
- 3 Characteristic Dinners as per itinerary;
- Professional English Speaking Tour-Escort and headseats for entire duration of the tour;
- 7 Excursion tours with dedicated Local English speaking guides;
- Admission fee and Skip the line at Colosseum and Vatican Museums Tours;
- Panoramic Visits as per itinerary;
- Porterage Service: Just 1 piece of luggage per person ONLY in Florence and Venice (No porterage in the other cities);
- Applicable Local Taxes and service Charges.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes and Surcharges Fee(s) assessed by the Airlines.
- Beverages at the meals (where not indicated).
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- All what is not mentioned in “PACKAGE INCLUDES”.

GENERAL CONDITION:
English escorted group tour.
Escorted Custom Group Tour Terms & Conditions apply. See more details..

(*) Rate based on two adult persons sharing a double or twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are available at an additional supplement. Children’s, triple room rates and alternative accommodation arrangements are available upon request. (Additional and different charges may apply). Please contact our reservation office for most competitive air pricing at the time of booking.

(**) Air & Land Price per person in double occupancy, subject to availability and other restrictions, rate based on New York Airports departures does not include Airport Taxes with are subject to changes.

The ancient name for Sicily (Sicilia), “Trinacria” (a three-cornered island) is aptly named. Sicilian shores are washed by three different seas: Ionian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea, and the Mediterranean. Sicily (Sicilia) is the largest island in the Mediterranean, and is in some aspects its focal point—home to heavenly beaches, majestic mountains, and Europe’s largest natural wonder, Mt. Etna. The main island is surrounded by a number of smaller picturesque islands, including the Aeolian islands to the west and the Pelagie islands to the south.

The typical landscape consists of coast and sun-baked hills and its geographical make-up is also quite varied, with sulfur mines in the center and volcanic activity in the east. Sicily (Sicilia)’s many volcanoes, in particular Mount Etna (the largest in Europe) have created a landscape that is unique in the Mediterranean. Sicily (Sicilia)’s coasts are gold with orange and lemon orchards; in northeastern Sicily (Sicilia) 'll find lush forests; in the central regions 'll encounter rugged land and rolling hills; vineyards, olive groves, almond orchards, and endless wheat fields.

The people of Sicily (Sicilia) regard themselves as significantly different from the rest of Italy, especially in the matters of ethnicity, culture, and language. Sicily (Sicilia)’s diverse heritage can be traced across a span of 2,000 years during which time it has been dominated by many different rulers: from the Greeks and Romans, to the Byzantines and Arabs, the Normans and the Spanish. This combination has made Sicily (Sicilia) and its people unique, and these mixed roots are reflected in their dialect, cuisine, and architecture.

Sicily (Sicil's plentiful architecture provides a visual demonstration of its diversity. You can discover Greek temples and amphitheaters, Roman settlements, unique Norman-Arab churches and palaces (whose style is somewhat similar to Moorish but with Byzantine Greek elements), Byzantine (Orthodox) churches, early Gothic churches, fortified medieval castles, Catalonian Gothic palaces, Baroque churches and mansions, and even a Chinese Revival villa built in the first years of the nineteenth century. Foundations of Phoenician buildings have been discovered beneath some of the Roman structures of Old Palermo, the hilltop temple at Cefalù is thought to be Sicanian, and the museum at Termini Imerese houses the stone Arabic inscriptions of 9th-century Saracen palaces.

Palermo, the capital, was founded by Phoenicians who sailed there from their native Carthage. Since the eighteenth century, Catania has been the second most important city in Sicily (Sicilia). Subjected to E's fickle temperament, Catania has been damaged by lava flows and earthquakes on several occasions. Taormina is also medieval, though its fame derives from its ancient Greek theater (and from its view, probably the most spectacular of any theater built by the Greeks, who certainly loved their views).

There’s plenty to do and see in Sicily (Sicilia)—sailing the coastline and inlets and the islands, fishing and diving in the crystal-clear waters of the coast and of the islands, hiking along the Madonie and Peloritani mountains or up Mount Etna (and in the winter, Mount Etna is also the place to go for downhill and cross-country skiing). You can visit the magnificent beaches, particularly at Taormina and the Golfo di Castellammare by Capo San Vito, which is part of a huge nature preserve.

Or do what Sicilians enjoy doing—take a passeggiata (stroll) to shop, enjoy a pastry or café, or just meet friends in the main piazzas and streets.

Length: 8 hours 
Available: from March 1st to November 30th – everyday
Departure time: at 9.30 AM
Meeting point: in the historical center – to be advised

Tour Highlights: Chianti region – Vespa experience.
Available in the following languages: English.
Price includes: English speaking guide, Transportation to and from Florence, Vespa Scooter rental, Helmet, Lunch, Local  taxes and Service Charges.

Detailed itinerary:

Tuscany will never look better, than when you're zipping through the countryside on a scooter! Our full day tour, including lunch, will get you away from the crowds and back to your senses. Your tour escort will meet you in Florence, and you will drive out to the countryside in a minivan. Once we reach the gathering point, our English speaking experts will give you a safety and orientation lesson on the scooter, and the ride will begin. We'll go along the curving country roads that grace the vista, passing by leafy vineyards, silvery green olive groves and countless little villages, where we'll stop to see the ancient historical center and crumbling beautiful palaces and churches. Lunch will be had on the road in a typical restaurant, and will showcase the flavors of the region with a little wine tasting. At the end of the day we head back to the gathering point. We'll leave the scooter behind, but keep the memories as the minivan take us back to Florence.  

General conditions:

This service is operated with Original Piaggio Vespa or Piaggio Zip 50cc scooters.
A valid driving license is required and you must be at least 18 years of age. It does not require motorcycle license.
If you wish you can take your companion on board with you (extra fee applied).
Only in case of heavy rain the tour will not operate. This will be decided upon departure and customers are asked to check in at meeting point in any case, in order to claim for reimbursement. Should heavy rain happen during the tour, a minivan support will be provided. Beware that weather in Florence might differ from the situation in the country side.

Length: 3 hours 
Available: from April 1st 2010 – on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday on request. (*)
Departure time: at 9.30 am
Meeting point: at your Florence Hotel centrally located.

Tour Highlights: Michelangelo Square - San Miniato a Monte - Ponte Vecchio - Pitti Palace - Fiesole hill - Piazza della Signoria – Piazza Duomo and the other highlights of the historical center of Florence.
Available in the following languages: English.
Price includes: Transportation with luxury air conditioned minivan, driver, English speaking local guide, Local  taxes and Service Charges.

Detailed itinerary:

Soak in the Florentine atmosphere in this luxurious driving sightseeing tour of the city and its hillsides. You'll meet your chauffeur and your tour guide, and you'll be off on a grand tour of Florence, complemented with historical fact and amusing anecdotes. The tour starts along a romantic street, slinking its way up the hillside, to the church of San Miniato a Monte, where we'll stop to take a few pictures of this beautiful Romanesque building, originally built in the 11th century. Our next stop will be Michelangelo Square, a terrace on top of the hill, with a most commanding view of the city and surrounding countryside. You'll want to take plenty of pictures here! The winding road will take us past some of Florence's most famous areas and landmarks, including Ponte Vecchio, Santa Trinita bridge, Pitti Palace, Strozzi Palace and the Medici-Riccardi Palace, on our way through the Fiesole Hill, an ancient site full of archeological remains from the Etruscan and Roman periods, and possessing a beautiful view of Florence's vista. On the return journey, you'll admire the Tuscan landscape and unforgettable panoramas. Back in the historical city center, we'll continue our tour visiting the “cloth dying” district, and admire the church of Santa Croce, an exquisite example of Gothic style, before coming upon Piazza della Signora. We'll embark on a short and easy walking tour of this "open air sculpture gallery," discovering the Palazzo Vecchio and the Piazza Duomo, with artistic imprints from the most famous artists of the Renaissance. You'll marvel at the Cathedral’s cupola designed by Brunelleschi, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Baptistery, with its Paradise door, described by Michelangelo as the gate of Heaven.

General conditions:
Availability on request.
To be reconfirmed the day before.
Minimum of 4 participants and maximum of 7 participants.
(*)During low season could be possible that different languages will be unify in one tour and the tour guide will give the explanation in multilanguage.