Review By Lauren R - Chester, IL - USA (October 2016)

Not only am I recommending them to all of my friends and family, I have been planning a return trip with them since the second day that I was there!

Written By:	Lauren R
Rating:
Location:	Chester - IL - USA
Review Source:	Trip Advisor
Type of Traveler:	Family
Itinerary:	Soriano - Tuscan & Umbrian Sun

Full Review

I stumbled onto the Culture Discovery site about six years ago, and I have fantasized about the trip to Soriano ever since. As you might imagine with that long to day dream about it I had quite high expectations, and the actual trip BLEW THEM OUT OF THE WATER.
This was simply the most seamless and stress less adventure I have ever been on. I am certain that if you are interested in this vacation you have taken the time to read the itinerary on the website, so I won't rehash every stop. I will just say that they seem to have thought of absolutely everything. I can definitely understand now why so many people are repeat visitors with Culture Discovery Vacations because not only am I recommending them to all of my friends and family, I have been planning a return trip with them since the second day that I was there!
Things that surprised me:
How friendly everyone was: by the end of the trip I really do feel like we are all family.
How much I enjoyed all of the excursions: I’m not particularly religious, but some of the churches we went to were so awe inspiring that I could have spent hours just sitting in them and looking at the frescos. I have never walked into a place and wanted to fall to my knees and start crying from the majesty and beauty of my surroundings before. I have now.
How much down time there was: This is a very busy vacation, but I was very impressed that there was so much time for relaxation included!
A few caveats: 
Bring some Dramamine, peppermint hard candies, or ginger. I don’t usually get car sick, but some of the curvy Italian roads got to me and several others in our group.
They aren’t exaggerating how much you will be walking. Also “flat” in Italy is definitely different than what it is in Illinois (and I would assume the rest of the world!) so do make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Bring stretchy pants. You are going to eat, and then eat again, and again. All the food will be mind-blowingly wonderful, and it will require the self-control of a Saint to turn it down. I did not have that resolve and I am really, really glad I opted for jeggings.
By the end of the trip I really do feel like I have a large extended family not only with our hosts in Italy, but also with my fellow travelers. The food is fantastic and plentiful. The wine is exquisite. The accommodations are breathtaking. The excursions were interesting, beautiful, and varied. The classes were informative and FUN. I can honestly say, without hyperbole, that every aspect of the trip was amazing. I cannot recommend it, and Culture Discovery Vacations, strongly enough.

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Sample Photo from this Itinerary