Welcome to Annette`s Sapori Tastes of Italy Tour of Tuscany

Welcome to Annette’s Sapori Tastes of Italy
Tour of Tuscany & Northern Italy
27 August - 11 September 2016
TOUR DETAILS
Prices:
Rome to Venice
16 Days/15 Nights
$7,950
$9,300
Twin Share
Single
Rome to Milan
12 Days/11 Nights
$6,300
$7,350
Twin Share
Single
Tour Inclusions:
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Farmhouse, villa and hotel accommodation
Breakfasts, some lunches and most evening meals
Tea, coffee and non-alcoholic beverages are included. Wines and alcoholic beverages are at your
expense.
English and Italian speaking tour host Annette will accompany you throughout the tour
Transportation by air-conditioned coach
Guided easy walking tours with English speaking local guides
Two cooking classes which include lunch and wine
Wine, Cured Ham and Cheese Tastings
Private boat excursions Lakes Maggiore & Como
Four Wheel Drive excursion in the Alps
This tour is presented by:
In collaboration with:
La Veneta Restaurant
45 Mt Eliza Way
Mount Eliza. Vic. 3930
Tel:
(03) 9787 6111
Email: [email protected]
Shop 5, Ritchies Centre,
89 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza, VIC 3930
T: (03) 9787-9477 F: (03) 9787-1145
E: [email protected]
W: www.canadianbaytravel.com.au
ABN 39 005414326
Proudly ATAS Accredited A10699
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ITINERARY
Day 1: Tour Commencement at Rome Airport
Welcome Dinner and overnight at the Hilton Hotel, Rome Airport
Day 2: Rome to Tuscany (near Siena)
Coach transfer to Tuscany with a lunch stop at a winery on the way including wine tasting.
Villa accommodation for 3 nights. After checking into our accommodation the remainder of the day will be spent at
your leisure.
Day 3: Cooking Class & visit to Montalcino
Today we will experience a typical Tuscan cooking class with our personal chef followed by lunch where we will
enjoy our cooking creations. In the afternoon we will travel to the beautiful old town of Montalcino for a guided
walking tour and some time to sit and relax in one of the many cafes.
The beautiful old mediaeval town of Montalcino sits up on a hill, with stunning views of surrounding valleys dotted
with silvery olive groves, vineyards, fields and villages. During these times this city was known for its tanneries - for
shoes and other leather goods, that were made of high-quality leathers and produced there.
Day 4: Visit to Siena
Today we travel by coach to Siena for a guided walking tour and a visit to the Open Air Market, followed by some
free time in the afternoon before returning to our Villa accommodation for drinks before dinner.
Siena is one of Italy’s loveliest cities, situated in central Tuscany and
distinguished by its mediaeval brick buildings. It sits over three hills with, in its
heart, the huge fan-shaped Piazza del Campo dominated by the Palazzo
Publico, the Gothic Town Hall and the Torre del Mangia, a slender 14th century
tower with sweeping views from its distinctive white crown. The world famous
historical Palio di Siena horse race is run around the Piazza del Campo twice
every year and attracts thousands of spectators.
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Day 5: Coach Transfer to San Gimignano
Transfer by coach to farmhouse accommodation for 4 nights.
This afternoon we will tour a winery and virgin oil producing farm. We will enjoy wine tasting with freshly produced
olive oils and other local products followed by some free time to soak up this beautiful area of Tuscany.
Day 6: Visit to San Gimignano
We will start with a guided walking tour of beautiful San Gimignano and then enjoy lunch alfresco, followed by
some free time for shopping. You can also indulge in the world famous ice cream from Gelateria Dondoli, or just
take time to explore the old town.
San Gimignano is another walled hill town in the province of Siena. Like many
other ancient towns around Tuscany San Gimignano is also famous for its
mediaeval architecture. The towers that rise above all the surrounding buildings
offer an impressive view of the city and nearby valley. At the height of its glory
San Gimignano boasted around 72 Tower-houses as symbols of its wealth and
power. Today only around 14 remain standing. San Gimignano is also
recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is known for its production
of saffron and a white wine called Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
Day 7: Visit to Florence
Today we will have an interesting guided walking tour of this very ancient city taking in all
the famous sites such as Ponte Vecchio, The Duomo and of course, Michelangelo’s
“David” just to name a few. This is followed by free time to enjoy what interests you most
- maybe sit in one of the many rustic restaurants known as “Cucina Povera” where you
will find regional cuisine always prepared with gusto and passion! As Florence is the
home of Chianti, why not try some with your rustic lunch?
Day 8: Visit to Volterra
A day trip to Volterra to explore this ancient and fascinating township, followed by lunch and some time to shop,
relax or sit back and enjoy a coffee or glass of wine and just watch the world go by.
Volterra is a stony village dotting the hills of central Tuscany. This town provides an emblematic but contrasting
look at this famed region. In recent years, Volterra has attracted international attention for its connection to
Stephanie Meyer’s ‘Twilight’ series; the movie was actually shot in Montepulciano and part of the movie ‘New
Moon’ was also filmed here.
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Day 9: Coach Transfer to Lake Maggiore with stop at Ferrari Museum
Transfer to Ferrari Museum where you can take a drive in the many Ferraris waiting
to be driven or even put a deposit down on one. Or, maybe just enjoy the museum
instead!
Afterwards, we continue on to Lake Maggiore to stay at a hotel on the shores of the
lake for 3 nights.
After checking in at our accommodation the remainder of the day will be at leisure
with drinks before dinner.
Day 10: Day around Lake Maggiore including a boat trip and lunch in Switzerland
Day 11: Visit to Lake Como and Bellagio
Today we visit the city of Como and take a boat trip around Bellagio. Enjoy some lunch and have time to shop or
just sit, relax and take in all this beautiful place has to offer.
Lake Como is one of the famous Italian Lakes destinations, not far from Milan in the north of Italy. It is 50 km long,
slender and extremely deep. The southern end forks into two long “legs”, with the picturesque town of Bellagio
situated on the promontory between them. Lake Como has been a popular resort destination since the Roman
Empire.
Bellagio is a beautiful little town that is picture perfect. The town is historic and charming with waterfront
promenades, stately hotels and beautiful gardens such as Villa Sebelloni and Villa Melzi that are open to the public.
Day 12: Travel by Coach from Lake Maggiore to Asiago_____________________________
We transfer by coach to Malpensa Airport for those who are ending their tour today, before travelling on to Soave
winery for tasting and lunch.
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Soave is a small quaint wine town in the Veneto region of Northern Italy. The town is enclosed by its medieval
walls topped by a castle that was built in the 10th century to protect the area from the Hungarians and is surrounded
by vineyards producing the famous Soave wine.
In the afternoon we will have a stopover in Vicenza where Annette’s cousins, Paola and Luca, will provide us with a
very personal tour of the city.
We then continue on to amazing Asiago in the Altopiano, with
spectacular scenery of rolling hills dotted with beautiful little
towns.
“This is my favourite little place, it is where my father came
from. I lived and attended school near Asiago for two years as
a child and now I frequent the town regularly. We stay in a hotel
in the centre of Asiago for 4 nights.” - Annette
Day 13: Cooking Class_________________________________________________________
This morning we head off for an organic cooking class with our very good friends, chef Mauro and his wife Barri.
Afterwards, we can sit outside in the garden to enjoy our fabulous culinary creations along with some great wines
from the nearby area. Later, we return to Asiago with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 14: Asiago, Bassano del Grappa and the evening Chess Festival theatre, Marostica__
A free morning in Asiago to take a wander around this beautiful Alpine town. The Saturday market is happening
right next door to the hotel, or you can take an easy walk up to the First World War Memorial built to commemorate
the “Battle of Asiago” 100 years ago in 1916 against the Austrians. Or, just sit in one of the outdoor cafes/bars and
enjoy a Spritz Aperol, or two!
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In the afternoon we will head down the mountain to the lovely old town of Bassano del Grappa on the river Brenta.
The town is known for its handmade ceramics, lace and most importantly, for its Grappa. It is the home of Nardini
Distillers opened in 1779 and now the oldest grappa distillery in Italy. It sits right on the Ponte Vecchio (The Old
Bridge also known as Ponte degli Alpini) which is a covered bridge designed by Palladio in 1569 and it is pontoonstyle, built completely of wood. You can stroll down the bridge and take in the lovely views over the river Brenta.
In the evening we will head to nearby Marostica to experience one of the highlights of the tour, the spectacular
Chess Festival Show.
Day 15: Excursion to the mountains_____________________________________________
This morning we will transfer by four-wheel drive to the higher Alps
for an interesting historical excursion with our great friend Ennio,
who will give a history lesson about the battles of World War 1
against the Austrians, while we take a leisurely stroll through the
tranquil fields of the Altopiano. We will finish with lunch at the
Malga, which is a cheese producing dairy farm.
Day 16: Transfer to Venice where our tour will sadly end____________________________
You will be transferred to Venice Airport to board your flight or to the city, if you wish to extend your trip with a few
nights in Venice.
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TRAVELLER 1
Please read the booking conditions (page 10) carefully, fill out your details in BLOCK LETTERS
and return to Canadian Bay Travel, Shop 5, Ritchies Centre, Mt Eliza along with passport
copies of the main page of each traveller’s passport.
A non-refundable deposit of $1,500 per person is required to confirm your booking. Full payment is due 90
days prior to departure.
Do you suffer from any medical condition or disability we need to be aware of?
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
If yes please describe your condition(s) and/or requirements: …………………………………………………………......
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Please attach a doctor's certificate stating your fitness to travel.
NOTE: Travel insurance is mandatory
Please advise if you would like us to arrange a Travel insurance quote?
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
If no, please provide your insurer’s name and policy number: …………………….........................................................
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Please advise any food allergies and any dietary needs: .............................................................................................
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
I, the undersigned, understand and accept the Terms and Conditions.
Signature: ……..……………………………...……………………………………. Date: ……….……………………………
Name (please print): ……………………………………….……………………… DOB: ……………………………….……
Address: ………………………………………...………………………………..… City: …..…………...…...…………….….
State: …………... Postcode: …………………..
Telephone: ……………...……….....…...……....………..…….. Mobile: ……………...…...…………………..…….………
Fax: ……………...………………… Email: ………………….……………………………………………………..……..……
Passport No: ................................................... Expiry Date: .............................. Nationality: .......................................
Passenger contact information in case of emergency (Someone we can contact while you are overseas).
Name: ………………………………….……………………. Relationship: ……………………………………………..…….
Tel: ……….…...………………………………………….....…… Mobile: ………………………….…..………………….…..
NOTE: It is essential that we are made aware of any existing medical conditions. Please advise if you have
any and provide details including any medication.
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TRAVELLER 2
Please read the booking conditions (page 10) carefully, fill out your details in BLOCK LETTERS
and return to Canadian Bay Travel, Shop 5, Ritchies Centre, Mt Eliza along with passport
copies of the main page of each traveller’s passport.
A non-refundable deposit of $1,500 per person is required to confirm your booking. Full payment is due 90
days prior to departure.
Do you suffer from any medical condition or disability we need to be aware of?
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
If yes please describe your condition(s) and/or requirements: …………………………………………………………......
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Please attach a doctor's certificate stating your fitness to travel.
NOTE: Travel insurance is mandatory
Please advise if you would like us to arrange a Travel insurance quote?
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
If no, please provide your insurer’s name and policy number: …………………….........................................................
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Please advise any food allergies and any dietary needs: .............................................................................................
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
I, the undersigned, understand and accept the Terms and Conditions.
Signature: ……..……………………………...……………………………………. Date: ……….……………………………
Name (please print): ……………………………………….……………………… DOB: ……………………………….……
Address: ………………………………………...………………………………..… City: …..…………...…...…………….….
State: …………... Postcode: …………………..
Telephone: ……………...……….....…...……....………..…….. Mobile: ……………...…...…………………..…….………
Fax: ……………...………………… Email: ………………….……………………………………………………..……..……
Passport No: ................................................... Expiry Date: .............................. Nationality: .......................................
Passenger contact information in case of emergency (Someone we can contact while you are overseas).
Name: ………………………………….……………………. Relationship: ……………………………………………..…….
Tel: ……….…...………………………………………….....…… Mobile: ………………………….…..………………….…..
NOTE: It is essential that we are made aware of any existing medical conditions. Please advise if you have
any and provide details including any medication.
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PASSENGER INFORMATION, TERMS & CONDITIONS
Tour Deposit and Balance
A non-refundable deposit of $1500 confirms your place on the tour. The balance will be due no later than 90 days
prior to tour departure.
Prices, Cancellations and Changes
The Prices given for the tour are based on a minimum of 10 paying passengers. Should we fall short of this number
Canadian Bay Travel on behalf of Sapori Tastes of Italy Tours will attempt to make the necessary alternative
arrangements to allow the tour to proceed. The tour may need to be amended to keep the price the same or other
participants will be asked whether they would like to absorb some additional expenses to cover costs or a
combination of both options. As a last resort the tour will be cancelled and we will refund monies in full less any
expenses incurred due to cancellation penalties imposed by suppliers. Neither Sapori Tastes of Italy Tours nor
Canadian Bay Travel is able to take responsibility for any other cancellation or amendment expenses you may
incur for other travel arrangements associated with this trip as a result of our tour cancellation. Prices are based on
an exchange rate of 65 Euro cents to the Australian dollar. Should there be a fluctuation in the rate of more than
5% or another supplier generated issue beyond our control we may need to adjust pricing accordingly. The
decision whether to implement price adjustments will be at our discretion.
Items not included
The tour price does not include your airfare. Canadian Bay Travel will be able to assist you with this and any other
travel arrangements you require in conjunction with and in addition to the Sapori Tastes of Italy Tour. Other items
not included in the tour price are your meals other than those mentioned on the itinerary, beverages, porterage,
passport costs, travel insurance and any items of a personal nature.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance - please note personal travel insurance is mandatory on all our tours and it is essential for you to
insure your travel arrangements in case of cancellation due to sickness or any other causes. You agree to hold
adequate travel insurance to cover, most importantly, medical costs and cancellation expenses. Canadian Bay
Travel can assist you with competitively priced comprehensive travel insurance policies.
Passports
Please supply Canadian Bay Travel with a copy of your passport details. Please ensure that your passport has at
least 6 months validity beyond your return date.
Luggage Allowance
The vehicle we are chartering for transport will only allow one regular size suitcase per person plus some hand
luggage. Please ensure you restrict your packing to these requirements to avoid carriage problems at the time of
travel.
Responsibilities
Sapori Tastes of Italy Tours is making tour arrangements for accommodation, transport and sightseeing as well as
payments through Canadian Bay Travel in Mt Eliza, an ATAS Accredited Travel Agent. This means we can offer
you the benefits and protection that booking through a travel agent who has been scrutinised by a government
authorised organisation will provide. Your escort Annette Went will endeavour to ensure that the tour runs as
smoothly as possible. We are unable to take responsibility for matters that are outside our control.
La Veneta Restaurant
45 Mt Eliza Way
Mount Eliza. Vic. 3930
T: (03) 9787 6111
Shop 5, Ritchies Centre,
89 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza, VIC 3930
T: (03) 9787-9477 F: (03) 9787-1145
E: [email protected]
W: www.canadianbaytravel.com.au
ABN 39 005414326 ATAS No. A10699
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