Home Itineraries Future Tours FAQs Tour Prices Registration Cooking Classes Villa del Vino BLOG Wine-Knows Travel - Photo Galleries Tesimonials About Us Contact Us RN

WINE-KNOWS TRAVEL, INC.

horizontal rule

Italy's Truffles, Barolo & the Riviera
2 Seats Remaining
FAQs

How do I meet up with the group?
What about airfare?
Who are the people I can expect to be my fellow travelers on this tour?
What accommodations will be used?
What culinary experiences will be offered?
What about clothing?
What type of weather should I expect?
What are my options as a single traveler?
How much free time is available?
Do you accept credit cards?

horizontal rule

How do I meet up with the group?

The tour begins on the Italian Riviera late in the afternoon on October 7, 2012 in the town of Sestri Levante (40 miles south of Genoa and easily reached by frequent rail service from Milan or Florence).    It is strongly advised that all participants arrive in Sestri Levante the day before to avoid any missed connections with the group.  (Wine-Knows will be happy to arrange for early arrival accommodations).

Back

What about airfare?

Group airfare has purposefully not been included to allow maximum flexibility in arrival & departure options. You may go early & stay over after the trip concludes.   Wine-Knows Travel, Inc. provides land only arrangements and does not provide airfare.

Back

 Who are the people I can expect to be my fellow travelers on this tour?

Our groups are composed of people from diverse occupations, singles & couples, men & women, a mix of young & old, well-seasoned international travelers as well as novices.  All have a common interest in food & wine.  The majority of participants on our tours are repeat clients or their referrals.  In addition, each tour participant is a non-smoker.

Back

 What accommodations will be used?

The following properties (many of which do not except tour groups) will be used.  All are 4 star properties and represent the best accommodations in their respective areas.

 

Spectacular hilltop Renaissance palace that has been restored to perfection.   Located in a small wine-centered village, the castle is surrounded by a sea of vineyards.  Rooms of this dramatic 12th century Piedmont estate are tastefully decorated with antiques & lavish fabrics.  Creature comforts of the 21st century include a sauna, exercise room, swimming pool, and the Internet.   Drop-dead gorgeous views abound.

Luxurious medieval-style castle with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.    Filled with impressive antiques and captivating architecture, this unique property is surrounded by beautiful gardens & boasts the perfect position from which to watch the sunset over the sea.  A private beach, along with a pool on the sea, complete the picture-postcard- perfect settingan ideal spot to unwind from jet lag.

Elegant Art Nouveau property situated in the heart of historic Turin.   Recently restored to its original 1920’s era sophistication, the attractive large rooms provide super comfy beds & well-outfitted bathrooms.  Just steps to the city’s finest shopping & museums, the hotel offers an excellent concierge service to help with any needs you have at this last stop of our trip.

Back

 What culinary experiences will be offered?

Dining experiences have been mindfully selected. Meals will be special culinary events, ranging from sophisticated Michelin-star restaurants (with tours of their celebrity chefs kitchens), to wine bars known for their excellent regional cooking & wine selection.

In addition to carefully chosen restaurants & winemaker dinners, this tour will feature a visit to gourmet food purveyors such as one of Italy’s premier chocolate-makers, as well as an outing to a top cheese producer.   We will also visit one of Italy’s largest outdoor markest boasting a bounty of luscious fall produce.

Last, but not least, there will be a cooking class by a professional chef  featuring the regional specialties of the Italian Riviera (this area is the birthplace of culinary items such as pesto and foccacia.)

Back

What about clothing?

The tour will be business casual. Men should bring a sport coat (tie optional) for the more formal restaurants, & women should plan a similar level of attire for these evenings.  Bring non-skid shoes for visits to wineries...they will be finishing harvest operations & floors will be wet & filled with a variety of equipment which can cause safety hazards. Also, pack a swimsuit as some of our hotels have a pool and/or a beach.  The best rule of thumb for packing should be layers.

Back

What type of weather should I expect?

Early October on the Italian Riviera averages mid-high 60’s during the day.  Evenings can be breezy due to its location on the sea so plan accordingly.  October in Piedmont is cooler than the Riviera; daytime temperatures are usually in the low 60’s.  Evenings can be chilly due to its location at the foot of the Alps.  Again, bring different layers of clothing that allow flexibility for weather.

Back

What are my options as a single traveler?

The price is based upon double occupancy.  Should you wish to share a room, every attempt will be made to find you a roommate (most of the time we have been quite successful in doing so), however if we are unable to find you a roommate, you will need to pay the single supplement of $997 US.

Back

How much free time is available?

We have provided free time as detailed in the itinerary.  Furthermore, it is not mandatory that you attend all of the planned experiences, although most of our clients do!  This is your trip---if you would rather sleep in, shop, or simply chill out at a sidewalk café, then do it!

Back

Do you accept credit cards?

Yes.  We accept payment through PayPal (PayPal.com).  Since PayPal charges us a fee, this fee must added to the cost of the trip.

Back

 

State of California Seller of Travel # 2091232-40