TUSCANY
FOOD & WINE TOURS
Frequently
Asked Questions
A: The best resource, is of course, www.theweathernetwork.com in terms of checking how the temperatures will be during the days you will be in Italy. Generally, we've experienced a low of 16C (60F) to highs of 27C (81F) in temperature swing during the month of September and October. Much like North American summers, hot days and cooler evenings so dressing in layers is advised.
A: The hotel offers free WiFi access in every bedroom. There are WiFi cafes in every main city area.
Suggestion: Turn OFF your smart phone’s cell service and use WiFi apps for free access and no roaming data charges. Always consult with your service provider to ensure your coverage outside of your home country.
A: Consular Section of the Embassy of Canada in Rome; Via Zara 30 - 00198 Rome
Tel.: (+39) 06-85444-2911 options 1, then 2
Fax: (+39) 06-85444-2912
E-mail: consul.rome@international.gc.ca
Emergency Service: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
A: CAA sells Italy-specific power converters to both power and protect your electronics.
A: Engage daily as you see fit. Our driver, will park the shuttle in a local bus lot. Should you wish to explore on your own, we simply ask that you pay strict attention to the rendezvous plan, which will have a prompt time and specific location for departure.
Exploring Italy's hidden streets is not only a necessity; it is one of this trip’s great pleasures!
A: As you would expect with most travel destinations, tourism can mean “big business” for those with bad intentions. We ask that you be just as diligent about your personal belongings and security as you would at home.
A: The amount of spending money you bring on a daily basis is really dependent on your personal shopping preferences. Stores accept VISA and MasterCard readily. American Express less-so.
Cash is king when making a deal with shop owners or street vendors so we recommend having some euros on you each day, should you see that pair of Gucci shoes, bottle of wine or unique souvenir you’ve always wanted.
As you see on our itinerary, there is plenty of free time each day and guests often enjoy grabbing a snack on their own between breakfast and the wine tours in the afternoon. The wineries always serve a healthy amount of local meats, cheeses, breads and olive oil.
Wine is provided with dinner; however, you may wish to purchase some of your favourites to enjoy at the hotel or back at home.
Tipping Guideline:
(Gratuities for all meals are included in your tour price.)
- Tour bus driver – 25 Euros per guest at the conclusion of the tour
- City Guides – 2-3 Euros per guest per guided experience.
- Hotel Staff & Housekeeping – at your discretion.
Tipping Guideline:
(Gratuities for all meals are included in your tour price.)
- Tour bus driver – 25 Euros per guest at the conclusion of the tour
- City Guides – 2-3 Euros per guest per guided experience.
- Hotel Staff & Housekeeping – at your discretion.
A: We'll ensure your requirements are met to the best of our abilities and as best as the region allows.
A few restaurants will offer Gluten Free; however, we strongly encourage you to travel with food staples if you have strong food sensitivities.
We ask that you advise us of any specific concerns and requirements, in writing, in advance of our departure.
A: As we said above, bringing layers to accommodate warmer days and cooler nights is a great idea. We've experienced hot summer-like weather well into September so were grateful for lighter clothing during the day AND the option to put on a jacket if required at night. We strongly recommend being prepared for a rainy day with a raincoat, umbrella or travel poncho.
Our accommodation features hair dryers in every room, as well as WiFi access and mini refrigerators. While hotels typically stock plenty of shampoo/conditioner and body soap, we recommend bringing any specialty skin care needs so that you have exactly what you need; especially if you have specific skin sensitivities. Pack a facecloth, if you use them, as they are not part of the standard set of room linens in Italy.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must as our tour prides itself in getting in and around the villages and vineyards for an intimate and up-close experience. We spend minimal time on the tour coach and maximum time walking. (averaging 13,000 to 20,000 steps per day).
While we go at a comfortable pace for the group, (this isn’t a race), we will visit historic Cities built on hilltops that feature cobblestone streets, so suggest that you plan your comfortable, non-slip footwear accordingly.
Special notes for the Amalfi coast:
- Non-slip shoes with grip for hiking are strongly recommended. We will be on rocky, uneven ground and gravel footpaths during some of the excursions.
- If you suffer from vertigo or motion sickness, this tour may be a challenge for you.
A: Breakfast is generally between 7-9am. You'll notice that there are very few clocks in Italy so we do recommend traveling with your own means of an alarm clock or use the clock features on your cell phone.
A: Italians have a great respect for people trying to converse in their language, so don't be shy to engage in conversation.
Suggestion – In your orientation emails, you will find two phrase sheets that will be extremely useful. We suggest that you review them before the trip, should you wish to learn a few key phrases, or simply brush up on what you already know!
A: YOU BET IT WILL!
Our tours have been ongoing since 2010 and our guests include a fabulous group of curious and adventurous travellers. We welcome groups, couples and single travellers.
We serve the novice and the well-traveled individuals who are independent and interested in more hands-on, authentic cultural experiences, daily walking tours( high physicality at 13,000-20,000 steps per day), and the chance to explore on their own too!experiences, daily walking tours (high physicality at 13,000-20,000 steps per day), and the chance to explore on their own too!
A: We suggest that all of our guests ensure that they review the latest travel guidance that has been vetted as credible and reliable resources provided by our trusted partners at CAA Travel:
- https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories
- https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions/exemptions?utm_source=travel-covid_travel-restrictions_entering-canada-checklist
- https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid- 19/arrivecan.html
- https://www.iata.org/en/programs/covid-19-resources-guidelines/destination-tracker/
Like No Other Trip
Thank you again for all the planning and details you guys took care of. This was like no other trip Ron and I have ever taken. I share our experience and your website with everyone who’s interested! You guys really do a great job.
Anita & Ron K.
Off the Beaten Path
It is relatively easy to tour major cities across Europe but to go off the beaten path is a lot of work. Darlene and Darren do all that for you. The quaint hilltop towns, the tour guides, the food and the winery tours are all top notch. We can’t recommend enough!
Mark and Heather L.
Now We’re Spoiled!
We wanted to tell you how much we appreciated all the effort you put into organizing and leading the Food and Wine Tour. As a rule we typically travel on our own so joining a fully organized tour was a real departure for us. And now we are spoiled; it’s hard to imagine another tour company putting so much into making sure that everything is perfect! It was evident that you’ve carefully selected the towns, the guides, the restaurants and the wineries. The agrotour at Podere Il Casale was very special. We were extremely impressed with all the tour guides, who were informative, passionate, and entertaining.
Karl & Anne
Incredibly Well-Planned & Organized
What a great trip we had. I was a bit reluctant to join a group but this worked so well. Not only was it incredibly well-planned and organized, it was a great mix of food and wine, landscapes, culture and shopping, not to forget people , we just had lots of fun. Did I mention wine? As the only vegetarian in the group I have to say that this was no problem at all. I ate so well and never felt left out.
Margarete S.
Better Than Advertised!
My bucket list trip to Tuscany was better than advertised!
The towns had great markets and gorgeous architecture. The vineyards were unique and had endless vistas overlooking rolling hills. And the meals were fantastic! We enjoyed the hospitality, great food and wine. I came back relaxed and refreshed and as a bonus from all the walking, I didn’t gain an ounce, even after ALL the delicious food and wine. I will definitely make this trip again.
I highly recommend seeing Italy with Darlene and Darren, they made us feel like family.
Laurie B
Nothing Is Left To Chance
I can tell you without a doubt that the Tuscany Tour was excellent. I’ve been on many tours over the years and found that you both do your homework. Being a chef and convention organizer show clearly how you compliment one another in organizing your tours. Nothing is left to chance. As tour guides you are also very approachable. Means a lot to the tourist. Kudos to you both and let me know about your next adventure. Thank you for a wonderful tour. Would not hesitate to recommend you to anyone interested in your tours.
Margaret B
Marvellous
The tour which you organized couldn’t be faulted. We’ve talked about it and think it just right, the pace, the marvellous towns and vineyards and your care of the group were all perfect. Thank you both for a great experience and keep us informed of future plans. Thanks again.
John and Suzanne
Couldn’t Have Done A Better Job!
What a fabulous time we had on our tour with you! Can’t believe how beautiful Tuscany is and how we saw so much of it with you. Every day was an adventure. The group got on so well. You couldn’t have done a better job. Too bad it took us 41 years to get there. Has to be the most beautiful place on earth.
Suzanne M.
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*Rates are per person, based on double occupancy in CAD. Non-refundable deposit of $1,462.50 CAD per person required at time of booking. This package is 100% non-refundable at final payment. For full payment terms and conditions, please ask your CAA Travel Consultant. CAA South Central Ontario reserves the right to cancel or re-schedule any tour departure in accordance with operating requirements (minimum number of participants) or circumstances beyond its control. Fees such as luggage are additional. No refund for unused services. Participants must be able to embark and disembark from coaches without assistance as well as have a good level of mobility for walking tours in destinations where stairs and traditional cobblestone streets can be challenging. ®CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. TICO Ont. Reg. #50014517. CAA Travel (South Central Ontario) Inc., 60 Commerce Valley Drive East, Thornhill, ON L3T 7P9. (2403-10/19)
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