The Italians are so full of life. They are as friendly in the cities as they are in the countryside. Rules are optional. Fashionable attire is a must. Cruising clubs in the city and revving your Ferrari at 2:30 AM is acceptable. Espresso in the AM is essential. Shutting down mid-day for “riposo” is the norm. It took us a while to get over the jet lag and adjust to the eating times. We were surrounded by shuttered shops containing culinary delights but had to rely the hotel mini fridge when we first arrived. Once we were in sync with the time zone, we were served more food at a single sitting than we normally ate in days.

Our fondest memories center around our stay at Castello delle Serre di Rapolano. We stayed in the fairy tale tower of this historical castle as we toured Tuscany. Renovations were still in progress during our visit and we were taken on a personal tour by Salvatore Gangale who gave us a private tour of the unfinished rooms behind the scenes. We were captivated by his fascinating and amusing descriptions of the Castle’s history and his vision for its completion. Antonio Gangale, Salvatore’s unmistakable son, provided personal one-on-one advice and suggestions every morning before we set off for our next adventure. His in-depth knowledge of the region’s attractions and hidden treasures was priceless and saved us precious time and countless footsteps to see the best Tuscany and Umbria had to offer. Never before had Cindi and I stayed at an accommodation so exquisite and genuinely welcomed as part of the family.

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