{"id":9193,"date":"2019-12-23T17:27:53","date_gmt":"2019-12-23T16:27:53","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/rickzullo.com\/?page_id=9193"},"modified":"2020-02-17T20:48:28","modified_gmt":"2020-02-17T19:48:28","slug":"italy-tours-by-rick","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/rickzullo.com\/italy-tours-by-rick\/","title":{"rendered":"Italy Tours by Rick"},"content":{"rendered":"

\u200bExperience Italy \u200bThe Way \u200bIt Should Be<\/h1>\n

\u200b\u200bBut with all the options, how do you choose?<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/span><\/p>\n

Ciao! My name is Rick and I\u2019m an American splitting my time between Rome and the U.S. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

What makes for a great trip to Italy?<\/h2>\n

What would an “ideal” itinerary look like?<\/h2>\n

While living in Rome, I came to a deeper appreciation for this alluring country\u200b. The small details of daily life, the cultural curiosities, and the subtle joys found in the most routine tasks. \u200b<\/p>\n

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At the same time, \u200bI have enough practical contact as a \u201ctourist\u201d to understand what makes for a great Italian experience in a limited time<\/strong>. Before I was an expat, I was a typical American traveler without much knowledge of Italy beyond the stereotypes.<\/p>\n

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\u200bBy combining these two perspectives, I feel that I have a great sense of what that perfect trip would be.<\/strong><\/p>\n

In our daily lives, we look for work\/life balance.<\/h2>\n

The same idea should be applied to a vacation…<\/h2>\n

So\u200b instead of work\/life balance, let’s call it touring\/free-time balance. It means finding the ideal pace. Il tempo giusto<\/em>, as the Italians would say, the “right tempo” of life\u200b; or vacation, in this case. <\/p>\n

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\u200b\u200bOn a tour of Italy, this is achieved by \u200bcombining spectacular sight-seeing \u200bwith the time to relax and take it all in.\u200b Some space to discover your own personal relationship with Italy without missing any of the incredible sites, monuments, and historic treasures.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u200b<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u200bB\u200because seriously, Italy wouldn’t be Italy if encountered at a frenzied pace. Sure, the drivers in Rome are pazzi<\/em> (crazy), but in general, the Italians make a deliberate effort to slow down and enjoy life. So should we, especially on vacation.<\/p>\n

\u200bThis is \u200bthe reason to \u200b<\/strong>work\u200b with professionals<\/span> <\/span>\u200b\u200b:<\/h2>\n

We do all the \u200bworrying while you simply relax and enjoy.<\/h2>\n

\u200b\u200bWith the Internet these days, you “could,” in theory, plan a trip to Italy yourself. Besides being a lot of work, you could easily make several planning mistakes along the way<\/strong> costing you time, money, and worst of all, enjoyment. That would be a real shame, and we won’t let it happen to you.<\/p>\n

\u200bJust a few of the reasons to travel with me…<\/h2>\n

\u200bCharming Hotels<\/h3>\n

\u200bI have hand-selected the hotels to \u200bshowcase the best of Italian hospitality, in prime locations, so \u200byou’ll feel the warm Italian ambiance at every moment of your stay. <\/p>\n

\u200bAuthentic Cuisine <\/h3>\n

\u200b\u200bIf you don’t experience the genuine, local specialties, then you haven’t experienced Italy. \u200bI have made an extra effort to ensure that every meal represents the authentic cu\u200bcina<\/em>. <\/p>\n

\u200bProfessional Guides<\/h3>\n

\u200b\u200bThe reason to tour with professionals is that you’re assured\u200b you won’t miss out on any of the wonderful moments that you’ve dreamed about vacationing in Italy. \u200b<\/p>\n

\u200bSO… What is the “\u200bBest” of Italy?<\/h2>\n

Italy is many<\/em> things, but it’s most famous for both the ancient capital, \u200bin all its majestic splendor; and the sun-kissed coastline villages<\/strong> where they celebrate great meals, relaxed strolls, and “the sweetness of doing nothing\u200b.”<\/p>\n

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In my experience THIS is how you see these two contrasting yet complimentary sides of Italy’s charming personality<\/strong>. I’m not sure you can fully appreciate one without the other.<\/p>\n

And I’ve Already Done All of the Work for You!<\/h2>\n

The hotels and drivers are all confirmed. The itinerary is a perfect balance of some spectacular sight-seeing along with the time to relax and take it all in. And of course, the best of local food and wine all along the way.<\/p>\n

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And customer service? I will personally<\/em> be there with you every step of the way.<\/strong> No, I’m not the trip leader or a tour guide. I leave that to the Italian professionals that have devoted their lives to sharing the riches of their country and culture. Rather, I am your host, there to facilitate the best possible travel experience, and I’ll address any questions ON THE SPOT in real time<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\u200b!<\/p>\n

\u200bImportant!<\/strong><\/h2>\n

This is a small group tour (6 – 12 Italy lovers)<\/strong> to experience the full spectrum of Italy’s charms! There are just enough fellow travelers to foster camaraderie without getting lost in a crowd.<\/p>\n

If you ever dreamed of a perfect Italian vacation<\/strong>, this is it! The itinerary features my hand-selected sites based on years of personal experience. The sites that I’ve chosen are a nice mix of “must-see highlights\u201d along with some lesser known hidden gems.<\/p>\n

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And while this is not exclusively a \u201cFood Tour,” there has been an added emphasis placed on the authentic cuisine and wine of the regions<\/strong>. This is a crucial part of understanding Italy, its history, its people, and its culture. <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/span>\"\"<\/span>\"\"<\/span>\"\"<\/span><\/p>\n

\u200bThis is the trip that I personally<\/strong><\/em> want to take!<\/h2>\n

\u200bQuite honestly, this tour is the culmination of YEARS of research\u200b and contemplation\u200b<\/strong>. After much \u200btrial and error to fit \u200bthe pieces together perfectly, I came up with the \u200bstep-by-step roadmap for the trip that I personally want to take. <\/p>\n

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Really, that was my criteria: if I were only able to travel to Italy ONCE in my life, what would I want to see, do, and eat?<\/p>\n

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\u200bThis is not \u201cadventure\u201d travel\u2014at least not in the physical sense.  If you enjoy walking a bit, then that\u2019s all the fitness you\u2019ll need. Rather, this will be a “cultural and sensory adventure” that will leave a lasting impression in your memory.<\/p>\n

Rick’s Rome to the Amalfi Coast Tour<\/h2>\n

September 26 – October 4, 2020<\/h3>\n

\u200bFrom \u200bthe Capital City of an Ancient Empire…<\/h2>\n

\u200bThe entire historical center of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the ancient city, to the modern wonders, \u200b\u200bI’ll make sure that you get a taste of all Rome’s layers of history and culture, while also giving you enough time and space for your own discoveries. <\/p>\n

\u200b\u200b…to the Tranquil Bliss of the Mediterranean \u200bCoast.<\/h2>\n

\u200bThis is the part of Italy that \u200bconjures our fantasies of sunny weather and friendly people along with the soundtrack of those classic Italian folk songs. This is where pizza was invented and where coffee was perfected. Incredible seafood, limoncello… and \u200bjust look at that view!<\/p>\n

\u200bSome Highlights of the Tour:<\/h2>\n

1.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u200b3 Nights in Rome + 5 Nights in Sorrento.<\/strong>  A total of 9 Days & 8 Nights (departing the US on Friday and returning on Sunday). This tour begins and ends in Rome\u200b, which will give you more options for booking your flights. <\/p>\n

2.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u200bMeals included: <\/strong>all buffet breakfasts, 5 lunches, \u200b7 dinners. That means that you’ll have time to do some exploring on your own, as well. We’re happy to give you some direction, or you can just wander and discover your own hidden gems!<\/span><\/p>\n

3.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u200bDedicated tour leader<\/strong> (a native Italian professional) and host (that’s me!) for the entire trip. Private Walking Tours<\/strong> by locally licensed, highly knowledgeable, English-speaking City Guides\u200b. Private Transportation<\/strong> in air-conditioned Mercedes vans\u200b.<\/p>\n

\u200b4.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u200bTaxes \u200bare Fees are INCLUDED<\/strong> in the price are all local VAT taxes and government fees, \u200bcity \u200btaxes, gasoline, highway tolls, city access licenses and permits, and parking fees. Staff\u200b and restaurant tips are included, as well.<\/p>\n

\u200bWhat people are saying…<\/span><\/h2>\n
\u200bSilvia<\/h6>\n

\u200bProfessionalism<\/h3>\n

\u200bWe had the pleasure to work with Rick last season and we really appreciated his great professionalism!<\/p>\n

\u200bLaura<\/h6>\n

\u200bCommunication<\/h3>\n

\u200bWorking with Rick was a great experience from beginning to end. The channels of communication remained wide open throughout<\/p>\n

J\u200bohn<\/h6>\n

\u200bLocal Knowledge<\/h3>\n

\u200bRick really knows Rome. Not just “what to see,” but where to eat, when to go, all of the little hidden spots around the city. <\/p>\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h3>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

\u200bWhat documents do I need<\/strong>?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n

\u200bIf you\u2019re from the U.S., you only need a valid passport for stays of up to 90 days. \u200b For more detailed information, contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs<\/a>.<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

\u200b<\/strong>Is Italy a safe place to visit<\/strong>?<\/span><\/h4>\n

\u200bYes, Italy is very safe. In the big cities, petty crimes (pick-pockets) are a bit of an issue. But random violent crime is almost unheard of throughout most of the country.<\/p>\n

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What about \u200bbathrooms in Italy?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n

\u200bItalian bathrooms are smaller compared to US standards, but each room has its own en-suite bathroom with shower and\/or tub, hair-dryer, and basic toiletry set. <\/p>\n

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\u200bIs airfare included in the price?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n

A\u200birfare in NOT included, and this is an industry standard practice. The reason is that airfares fluctuate so much depending on departure city, time of year, and how far out you book your flights.<\/p>\n

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\u200bWhat about spending money?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n

\u200bYou can exchange \u200bcash for local currency (Euro) or use a U.S. credit card. Cash is always preferred in Italy, and you\u2019ll get the best exchange rate when you draw money directly from an ATM (called \u201cBancomat\u201d). But in the tourist cities, most businesses will accept major credit cards, as long as it has a chip. <\/p>\n

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\u200bWhat if I get sick while in Italy?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n

\u200bYou\u2019ll find farmacie <\/em>(pharmacies) all over Italy where you can get basic medication and ask the pharmacists health-related questions. \u200bIf you are in real trouble, don\u2019t hesitate to call 118 for an Ambulance<\/strong> (equivalent to 911 in the U.S.). Emergency Room care is quite good and there is no cost for tourists and locals alike.<\/p>\n

P.S.<\/strong>\u200b  \u200bYou will always get the best rate when you book early. This goes for our tours as well as with the airlines. Travel insurance is always a good idea in case you have a major change in plans before or during your trip. By booking early and purchasing insurance, you guarantee that you’ll have a stress-free vacation!\u200bClick the \u200bbutton below to \u200breserve your spot! (No deposit needed at this time… we will contact you.)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/span><\/p>\n

Meet \u200bRick Zullo<\/h2>\n

\u200bRick Zullo is an Italy travel expert, having lived in Rome for many years along with many vacations in The Bel Paese<\/em> throughout his life. He has an extensive network of contacts all around the country, including local guides, cooking schools, and boutique hotels. His expertise will ensure that your dream vacation is everything you\u2019d want it to be \u2026 and more!<\/p>\n

\u200bIf You Only Take One or Two Trips to Italy in Your Life, THIS Is the One You Want to Take!<\/h2>\n

\u200bI\u2019ve heard some heart-breaking stories about folks who looked forward to a vacation in Italy their whole lives, only to be disappointed when then finally made the trip. So what went wrong? Well, it wasn\u2019t \u201cItaly\u2019s\u201d fault. It was poor planning or a bad choice in tour operators.<\/p>\n

While the Internet gives us access to endless information, it doesn\u2019t mean that everything you read is accurate or honest. What\u2019s more, \u201cinformation\u201d isn\u2019t the same thing as knowledge.<\/p>\n

\u200bIn Italy, Perhaps Like No Other Place, Local Knowledge Makes All the Difference<\/h3>\n

\u200bWhy take a risk? Why make a potential mistake wasting time and money on something that turns out to be disappointing? I have local experts along every point of the tour that KNOW their city and their niche, whether it be food, wine, art, history or cultural in general. Furthermore, I will be there with you, too, to make sure that your questions are answered and your needs are met.<\/p>\n

T\u200bhere’s Really No Comparison…<\/h2>\n

\u200bWhen you look at the options side-by-side, the choice is obvious.<\/p>\n

\u200bMy Tours<\/strong><\/h3>\n