From Tuscany it is a short drive into the neighbouring Umbria, a region characterized by hills, mountains, valleys and historical towns. Our day trip there included a visit to two of these towns; Orvieta and Assisi, along with stunning vistas of the Italian countryside. This 11 hour excursion was also booked with Ciao Florence tours. Our…
2025: The Year of Sustainable and Respectful Cruise Travel
Last week we discussed some of the issues surrounding over tourism in many European cities. That concern also exists in the cruise industry albeit more around environmental and sustainability issues, and the large number of passengers on ships contribute to the overcrowding. Other concerns arise around the impact on food supplies, accommodations and the local…
2025: The Year for Sustainable and Respectful Land Travel
Last year there was much ado in the news about protests against tourism at a number of popular destinations. Although it may appear to be localized it is important as a traveler to be cognizant of the issues, of which there are many. The intent is not to stop you from traveling, but rather to…
Our Top 5 Building Blocks of Travel
As part of our resolutions for a new year of travel we review what we did in the past in order to explore what we loved and what we hope to improve. This way our travel continues to evolve. One aspect of that is ensuring that every adventure includes a nod to what we have…
There Is A Museum for Everyone – Part 2
As I mentioned last week there are so many different types of museums that there is sure to be one that will appeal to whatever your interest are. Today we will continue to discuss the options. Who knew that there would be museums dedicated specifically to Food? Whether you are looking for a specific type…
There Is A Museum for Everyone – Part 1
Whether or not you savor a museum visit when you travel, consider how much there is to enjoy and learn from the time spent in these indoor pursuits. If you have been to a museum, any museum, and write the experience off as boring or a waste of your time perhaps you just didn’t pick…
Medieval Gems of Tuscany II
Our second foray into the countryside around Florence was a visit to the Val D’Orcia, a region of Tuscany in central Italy, and the medieval towns of Montalcino, Pienza and Montepulcino. The Val d’Orcia was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 2004. Its landscape has been depicted in works of art…
Medieval Gems of Tuscany I
Even with all of amazing and iconic sites to see in Florence alone, a two week stay gave us plenty of opportunity to explore all of Tuscany and even into neighbouring Umbria. These days trips were highlights of our time in Italy. We used Viator to book our excursions for no reason other than I…
Art of the Italian Renaissance
Florence is an art lovers dream destination. It is often touted as the birthplace of the Renaissance movement showcasing leading edge architecture, art and sculpture, and a meeting place for some of the best artists of their time – Masaccio, Brunelleschi, Donatello and others. The Renaissance is said to have started in Italy during the…