Testimonials

My husband and I have never liked 'tour group' travel but several years ago decided to take a chance on [Adagio Travel]. The trip, exceeding our expectations, led the way for a second venture to Cinque Terre. This is a must do trip where [Adagio Travel] excels. Claudia's extensive knowledge of Italy, its people and her fluency in Italian combine to give one a journey into the true Italy where locals gather - not 100 other tourists. Her genuine love for what she does and relaxed manner puts everyone at ease.

The friends and memories we made are unforgettable. We eagerly await newly planned trips by [Adagio Travel], as our bags will be packed and ready for adventure.

Terri W.
Boone, NC

What wonderful feelings and impressions we came home with from various places in Italy! Each of the regions was new for me, each so unique and beautiful. You [guides] made it all come alive in a series of personal encounters, meandering walks and hikes and gastronomic experiences.

Marylyn P.
Sun Valley, ID

All three hotels were great...very different but charming experiences. I loved being exposed to less-traveled parts of Italy. In Bologna, [it] was fun to dine with one of the best Young European Chefs (Jeunes Chefs d'Europe - Marco Fadiga) . [The meal] had traditional aspects but was fresh and innovative. I loved the size of the group—the trip was flexible enough to allow for individual differences. One day instead of hiking, a small group of us took the boat to Portovenere and stumbled upon a newly married Japanese couple in a seaside trattoria, while being serenaded by an Austrian women's choir. An experience that could never be duplicated or planned! I will travel with you again! It was the trip of a lifetime. Great memories and new friends made!

Wendy W.
St. Louis, MO

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the harbors as we hiked into Portovenere was breathtaking and magical. The entire day was full of surprises (the little lunch stop that appeared in the woods) and new adventures that put our hiking skills to the test. Also, the evening we spent in Francesca's childhood home where she learned to cook and bake from her mother. She is adorable and did a wonderful job of preparing our meal with such ease and grace and then all gathering in the dining room for the delicious meal and desserts. Very fun.

Kathleen B.
Sun Valley, ID

Both Ann and I were thrilled with the program you put together in Trieste and environs and I can easily say that it was the trip of our lives. Your knowledge of the area, fluency in the language and understanding of the people were most impressive and we would like to be considered in the future if you plan similar adventures. Ann and I also found [the co-guide] Elizabeth to be a treasure. Thanks for all your effort—it truly showed.

We have nothing but admiration for the Hotel Duchi d'Aosta [in Trieste]. Ned sincerely appreciated the effort involved in seeking out [extra long] beds. The location cannot be bettered and the hospitality of the Benvenuti [family] could not have been warmer.

...Everything that we expected was surpassed...

...the local guide...gave a lovely and knowledgeable flavor to his city.

With sincere admiration,
Ned and Ann R.
SC

I took 10 women [on "Art de Vivre"] in June 2004, and we had a wonderful time.

What my people enjoyed most:

• Staying at Le Moulin—the hospitality, the ambience, the garden, the pool
• Jim and Dominique—their great attention to everyone having a good time, their flexibility, how much fun they are
• The opportunity to just stay in one beautiful location and not having to pack and unpack
• The wonderful food experiences whether a picnic at Le Moulin or the elegant dinner at Cote Sud
• Shopping

JoAnn
Portland, OR

The Art de Vivre trip almost sells itself. It is a wonderful week of experiences in Provence. I have taken two groups on this trip and everyone says "It is the best trip I have ever taken". It is the right amount of historical, gardens, food, markets and Provence villages. Le Moulin is a fabulous bed and breakfast with the best hosts in Provence. I have stayed in many B&B's all over France and Le Moulin is the best value to be found...

The cooking class with Ghyslaine in her lovely home is the highlight of the week. It is special to watch her cook in her wonderful Italian kitchen and have dinner in the courtyard with Jacque liberally sharing his wonderful local wines and homemade lemoncello and vin de orange.

Susan C.

Driving down a narrow dirt lane and pulling into a break in a stone fence, we pulled into a beautiful country home. Le Moulin! Hidden near the tiny town of Eyguieres, it felt like a rare find. Welcomed by Dominique and Jim and their friendly dogs, we knew we were in for a relaxing stay. The old stone building has been recently refinished on the inside, producing beautifully appointed rooms, with all the right touches...soft down comforters, gorgeous French linens, beautifully tiled bathrooms with of course, Provence soaps. The patio outside your door welcomes you to join the outdoors and linger for a while with a book and a glass of wine. The garden with scattered stone fish ponds, trellises, and huge old sycamores creates a peaceful setting that you will not want to leave!

Jennifer D.
San Diego, CA