Ciao, Italian Travelers
ETBD Tour, only ours was in reverse
Buongiorno! Come with us, Tommy and Melissa Ince, on our breathtaking trip to beautiful Italy! The adventure began with an invitation from members of our family, Mark and Beth Hackett. That's us above; we are in the middle, and Beth (Tommy's sister) is on the left and her husband, Mark, is on the far right. Originally we planned to go to Ireland, but a trip to Italy for its rich history, romance, cuisine, and wine was too hard to resist. For our first trip to Europe, we decided to participate in a Rick Steves' tour. Not only would nine days and five cities (Florence, the Cinque Terra, Lucca, Volterra and Rome) be planned out to precision for us, but we would also have someone who knows the “ins” and “outs” of getting around quickly, ensuring we see the “don’t miss” events along with built-in history lessons. The tour also pre-books your hotels and most meals, with plenty of free time to explore on your own. In addition, an Italian speaking tour guide eliminates communication barriers, and we are also able to learn a little Italian ourselves!
Packing for a trip of this length is complex. The tour recommends a carry on sized suit case and a backpack, as these items will be carried by us up stairs as well as the occasional two to three cobblestoned blocks for the next nine days. And don't forget to leave room for the souvenirs that must be packed for the return trip. We found it helpful to plan ahead and pack for the trip weeks prior to departure; watch weather forecasts, so the appropriate items are included. To successfully plan for souvenirs, be sure to include a collapsible duffle that can be used as a third bag because by the end of this trip, it will be full!
During the planning and preparation, you only have an idea of what's ahead, still to be discovered. Yet, no matter how many words are read or pictures seen, you are not prepared for the actual experience. Expect to be drawn in by the history. Expect to drink in the beauty. Expect to feel like an Italian. Most of all, expect to experience a unique feel for each city.
Packing for a trip of this length is complex. The tour recommends a carry on sized suit case and a backpack, as these items will be carried by us up stairs as well as the occasional two to three cobblestoned blocks for the next nine days. And don't forget to leave room for the souvenirs that must be packed for the return trip. We found it helpful to plan ahead and pack for the trip weeks prior to departure; watch weather forecasts, so the appropriate items are included. To successfully plan for souvenirs, be sure to include a collapsible duffle that can be used as a third bag because by the end of this trip, it will be full!
During the planning and preparation, you only have an idea of what's ahead, still to be discovered. Yet, no matter how many words are read or pictures seen, you are not prepared for the actual experience. Expect to be drawn in by the history. Expect to drink in the beauty. Expect to feel like an Italian. Most of all, expect to experience a unique feel for each city.