Highlights of our Tuscany Adventure

Now that we've been home a week and I've had time to catch up on things, I thought I'd take the time to do a quick synopsis on our recent trip to Italy. 

If you follow my blog, then you know that Marty and I enjoy venturing out on our own, exploring places off the beaten track....where visitors are few and far between.  I knew that wouldn't be the case on a designated tour, but I knew that Marty wanted to see Rome, and the only way that was happening was through a tour. 

I'd had one prior experience that involved a large group, and that was in the summer of 2007, when the RSYO had a scheduled performance tour through various cities in Italy and I signed up to go along, as Amy played the violin with the orchestra.   That venture was filled with frustration from the start, with the bus catching on fire en route to the airport, ( we should have taken that as an omen),  lost instruments and luggage, and unprepared tour guides who were actually more "baby sitters" than tour experts.  The one positive was the superb performances by those talented young men and women who wooed many of the locals with their outstanding skill. 

So, when I called my local AAA agent and requested information, I really had no idea what to expect.  I am pleased to say, that the experience was far better than what I could have imagined.  

After landing in Rome and transfer to our hotel, we met the others who had signed up for the "pre" Tuscany tour in this famous city.  There were just six others, and all were newbies to touring. 

All were extremely entertaining and excited to be on this adventure.  The perfect submersion into the world of tourism. 

Our first day out involved squeezing into a crowded metro car (while safeguarding our belongings) to visit ancient Rome.  Our local guide was excellent, led us up and down through the Colosseum and into ancient Rome, but not before taking a group photo. 

Yes...there were some raindrops...but none of us seemed daunted by that! 

I had been concerned that I'd slow down the group with my knee issue, but not only was this crew patient and understanding, each one of them went out of their way to lend a hand, or offer assistance if needed.  It wasn't often, but I was definitely blessed to have them by my side, and I continue to be extremely grateful.  

Our travels moved onto Tuscany, where we were joined by 28 new faces, all different ages, with several of the participants mentioning that this was their second or third tour with Collette.  I have since learned that AAA partners with the company, which is noted to be one of great quality, and I must say, I have to agree.  

We settled in Montecatini Terme, 

a familiar venue from my previously mentioned trip, and I appreciated the opportunity to unpack just once from this point forward.  Of course, sleeping in one location did require compromise with longer travel by bus during the day, but the coach was comfortable, the scenery outstanding, and the fellow tourists cheery and upbeat.  I felt that this was an excellent way to expose the outsider to the various cities within driving distance. 

A local expert greeted us at each city that we visited. The city guides added an extra dimension with their enthusiasm, knowledge and light humor. We saw local life through the life of an Italian, learning about culture that stemmed back hundreds of years, to survival efforts during a World War. 

From the horse racing events during the Palio in Siena, to the memories from a guide's grandmother who had kept her family alive during the German occupation of the Gothic Line.  Every day presented a wealth of information for us to absorb. 

But there was much more than history....guides were certain to share the "specialty" of a particular location, and Marty and I enjoyed seeking those treasures out when we could find them. 

Breakfast in Rome included these delectable croissants that were stuffed with various fillings such as jam, nutella or custard.  I chose the latter. You can see the custard peeking out at the top, but rest assured, the center was filled with the delicious filling. 

Our Roman dinner included this local pasta dish that is made with Pecorino Cheese & Black Pepper Pasta.  Just the perfect amount of zip to tantalize the taste buds.

There was Pesto Pasta to enjoy as well.

Tuscany held its own delights: Focaccia unique to Lucca.  There was a chickpea version, but I chose a more traditional stuffed with muchrooms, arugula and garlic.  

The Pesto Mozzarella Focaccia that we tried in Vernazza along the Italian Riviera melted in our mouths, and was, by far, the best that we've ever tried. 

Florence offered some delectable spinach-ricotta raviolis in a Sage Butter Sauce.  I tried something similar in some other villages, but this one was tops in my book. 

In Monterosso al Mare, Marty chose the Pesto Pasta.  I shared the Caprese salad, but the highlight of the meal was that refreshing Lemon Spritz.  Tart yet so lovely. Just what I needed to quench my thirst on a hot day! 

But nothing beat this caprese salad from Pisa.  The tomatoes were fresh and full of flavor.

In Montecatini Alto, I enjoyed an unusual gnocchi dish that had blue cheese in the sauce.  Tangy, but creamy and delicious. 

And for dessert, I enjoyed a delectable chocolate lava cake.  You won't believe what oozed out of the interior when I delicately touched it with my spoon.  Chocolate fudge at its finest. 

Tiramisu came in different forms

with this one winning the award for the best presentation.  (The Macaron was certainly a nice touch.) 

Siena had its tender, mouth watering almond cookies.

Espresso was available everywhere.

I tried the Gelato in nearly every city we visited:  Roman treat

Pisa was delightful

But Monterosso al Mare, was, by far, the best.  that dark chocolate, in combination with Nutella,  was to die for. 

Added to our fun was a visit to a local farm, where we were put to work prior to enjoying our dinner. 

Tomatoes were chopped for Bruschetta

as well as vegetables for Tuscan soup.

We all then had a hand in making the tagliatelle. 

Great memories, for sure.  Plus, a terrific meal at the end.  You just can't beat that! 

But the best memories are those that we shared with our newfound friends. 

Certainly a trip to remember.  But before I come to a close, I forget to mention about the Spritzes.

I was familiar with the Aperol Spritz, 

but I noticed on several menus that there were different varieties of Spritzes that could be enjoyed. 

 I mentioned the Lemon Spritz, which was a real treat, and I tried a different one in Montecatini Alto.

You can see how much richer the color is, as it used a different ingredient than the Aperol.  A bit tarter, but equally delicious.  

But there is one thing that I learned about consuming this delectable drink.  My role as photographer might be a bit hampered, as I noticed hours later when I went to send this off to my new special friend. 

How funny is that?  Luckily, they have a GREAT sense of humor! 

Ciao Ciao Ciao, as Joanna would say!  Glad to have had you follow along!