A Bella Vita Client Perspective: Italy Tailor-made for the Family

We had the pleasure of working with Nena, Veljko and their two daughters on a family adventure of Italy. From Venice to Florence to Siena to Rome and finishing off in Sorrento, here first hand their travel experience with Bella Vita Travels…

Why did you choose Italy and what were your expectations for this trip?

Nena and I had been to Italy many times and fell in love with the people, history, art, architecture, landscapes, food and wine. We wanted to share these experiences with our kids and travel this wonderful country together on what we hoped will be a trip of lifelong memories. It was all of that and more.

What was your favorite destination and why?

Venice. There’s nothing like it. Just being there, in the maze of canals, islands, narrow streets and bridges made us feel we were in another world. We felt part of history more than anywhere else, including Florence and Rome. There is also something magical about being connected to the sea every single moment.

 

Favorite accommodation and why?

Palazzo Ravizza in Siena. They preserved so much of the original building, furniture and the spirit or the original building and way of life. And, their garden, overlooking the Tuscan landscape was probably our favourite spot.

Favorite tour/excursion and why?

All day boat tour to Capri. We love being on the water, in the boat. And the waters around Capri are unreal colour. Our small group was great and our captain Luigi was a cheerful lad, singing opera and telling stories. He took us to some fantastic swimming spots. He opened a bottle of Prosecco on our way back to Sorrento to top off an already fabulous day. 

What did you think of the food (and wine)?

It was absolutely amazing, but one has to research and be well prepared to avoid tourist traps. Traps are not as bad as in France :), but they do exist. The Bella Vita destination kits were very helpful and we also were lucky to have friends and family who helped with recommendations. Two highlights: Vini da Gigio in Venice and Il Cantuccio in Nerano. For wine, you can try to be ‘the expert’ and look through the long lists, but just ask your waiter and he will bring a good bottle, guaranteed.

Anything you would do differently?

Not really, it was close to perfect. If we had to change one thing, it will probably have to be our hotel in Sorrento. It was clean and comfortable, but located centrally on the main square, it was a little loud. Being at the seaside may have been a better option. However, the staff was awesome, the best and their breakfast on the rooftop garden was outstanding. So, maybe we won’t change a single thing!

Your overall feeling of working with Bella Vita?

Working with Megan and Luigi was easy and effortless. You guys picked on every comment during our initial conversation and carefully crafted this itinerary for us. Making it fun, dynamic and interesting for different age groups. We have already recommended Bella Vita to everyone we know with plans to travel. You guys were by far the best travel company we have ever worked with. 

Any additional comments?

We were so happy we listened to your advice to pack lightly and have only carry on luggage. For me (Veljko) it was easy but convincing my 3 girls to pack lightly was a dangerous proposition. It started with their disbelief I even suggested such a thing. With a lot of patience and some bribery I finally managed to get everyone to agree. In the end, we were all laughing and never looked back at all those who were spending their vacation time around the carousel at the airport…

 Thank you Nena &Veljko and hope you return soon! – the BVT team