When are the tours available?
The “usual” tours are scheduled for spring and fall, but, when requested, we’ve taken travelers to Tuscany at all times of the year.
How many travelers are on a tour?
The “usual” tours, which are 10 days in length, are limited to 8 travelers. All tours must have at least 4 travelers participating. The “customized” tours, which can be any length (at least 7 days), may include up to 20 travelers and prices may differ. Discounts are available to groups of at least 6 friends who want their own “private” tour. All customized tours may be scheduled for any time of the year and are created with the travelers interests in mind. These special tours can focus on wine, cooking, history…we make your wish come true! Keeping the numbers small allows the travelers the “off the beaten path” experiences that tourists do not have access to – and the opportunity to meet the people who make the wine, produce the olive oil, cook the food, create the cashmere and leather items, and share the Tuscan way of living.
What is included on a tour?
The “usual 10-day” tour includes the following:
- 3 nights in a Florence B&B
- 2 days guided Florence walking tours
- Paid, reserved admission to the Accademia (David!) and the Uffizi (the best Renaissance art in the world!)
- 7 days van & driver for Chianti day trips
- 7 days guided Chianti tours
- 7 nights in Tuscan country lodgings with breakfast items provided
- Gratuities
- Transport to Florence airport for departure
- All the fun is FREE
What is NOT included on a tour?
The tour package does not include airfare. The traveler is responsible for cost of personal food and beverages, plus the cost of various wine tastings, admits to churches, other museums, and historical sites. Fees for itinerary planned events range from 6 – 30 euro/person.
What makes “The Road Less Traveled Tours” (TRLTT) so special?
These tours are not your typical American tour. There is no large bus full of people. There is no tour guide with a fluffy duck on the end of stick giving out “by the book” information that cannot be heard in the back of the pack. TRLTT presents opportunities not normally available to the average tourist. TRLTT travelers will go places, meet people, and experience life in Tuscany which is “off the beaten track”. Sure, there are some “touristy” must-see places, but our tours focus on getting to know the realities of Tuscany… the food, the wine, the hill towns. And, in addition to these unique experiences, the traveler will take home memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
How do I reserve a place on a tour?
Use the following:
How do I pay for the tour?
We accept personal or cashier checks made out to “Davi Lowman TRLTT”, mailed to:
- Davi Lowman TRLTT, 1023 80th Avenue, Sherburn, MN 56171.
Is there a down payment?
Yes, there is a tour confirmation fee of $500/person to reserve your tour. Once that has been received, a packet will be mailed to you with a receipt of your deposit, tour details, and necessary forms which need to be signed and returned.
When should I apply for a passport?
Yesterday! Currently there is a backup in applications so the sooner the better. Go to: http://www.travel.state.gov.
What’s the weather like in Tuscany?
Usually the weather is superb in both spring and fall, but like anywhere, it’s up to Mother Nature. It’s always best to bring light clothing that can be layered. And it’s best to keep track of the forecasts. We like this Tuscan weather website.
What do I bring with me?
Simple–remember this: the operative part of the word "luggage" is "LUG." Pack light! Pack your bags and then walk around the block, plus up and down a couple flights of stairs… then rethink your packing. The most important item a traveler needs is comfy, supportive shoes. Take a look at the "Packing" area on Rick Steves' website: http://www.ricksteves.com
For security regulations related to packing, go to: http://www.tsa.gov
If the traveler has any tendency, however slight, towards motion sickness, it is wise to bring along the necessary precautions, such as oral medication, ear patches, and/or wrist bracelets. There are no straight, flat roads in Tuscany.
How is the dollar versus the euro?
Let’s just say we miss the days of the lira. To find out the current exchange rate, go to: http://www.oanda.com/convert/classic
What items may I bring back?
You may check customs regulations at: http://www.customs.gov
What if I have other questions?
Please contact us by using any of the following:
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