This was such a fun trip. We saw so many beautiful places. There were also many options for additional excursions. I like this trip because I didn't have to plan anything. The Expat team took care of everything. Our guide, Marysol, was very knowledgeable and kind.
Excellent- Gail and Mike, First Timers
We can't say enough about how wonderful it was! Not only did we get to experience 10 different countries and the sites and culinary experiences they offered, but we met some really fun travel mates along the way. Some hotels were better than others, but they were all super clean, provided a good breakfast, a bar for a nightcap, and most importantly, a comfortable bed. Our driver Chris was amazing, and our tour leader Steve was the absolute best - knowledgeable, organized, entertaining, and ultra-personable. The bus rides went quickly with frequent comfort stops, times for naps and time for reading/puzzles, and a couple trivia contests. We are already looking into our next Expat tour!!
If youre tired of travelling with busloads of fellow tourists then a small boutique tour with this local travel specialist is the perfect solution. Chantelle and Giovanni have put together a wonderful introduction to the region they call home based around the beautiful town and province Ascoli Piceno. I was travelling solo for the first time, but they made it entirely comfortable and made me feel very welcome. They take groups of up to 8 (ours was 6) and because you base yourself in Ascoli there is no packing and unpacking every day. Each day is a mix of wineries, culture, cooking classes, long lunches, local sites and beautiful views. Theres plenty of time for yourself, and Chantelle and Giovanni take the time to show you anything that you have a particular interest in. If you want to do some extra shopping theyll happily show you their favourite places. This is relaxed touring with a personalised touch where you are meeting the winemakers or producers. This is where the tour operators live and work, so they have relationships with the people you meet that go beyond herding people in with the hope they will buy merchandise. Every experience feels very authentic. Ascoli itself was a great base for the tour. As a solo traveller it felt very safe. I was completely comfortable wandering around by myself in my free time.