Review By Debra Lynne - Humboldt City, CA - USA (September 2013)
A truly excellent adventure!
No stuffy cooking classes for us, with everyone so serious worrying about their knife skills...No! we laughed, sang, threw flour at each other, made faces, teased, and laughed some more
| Written By: | Debra Lynne |
| Rating: | |
| Location: | Humboldt City - CA - USA |
| Review Source: | Trip Advisor |
| Type of Traveler: | Couple |
| Itinerary: | Soriano - Tuscan & Umbrian Sun |
Full Review
A culinary vacation to Italy had been on my "bucket list" for many years, but little did I know it would be the vacation of my lifetime! CDV vacations offer the best that Italy has to offer- food, wine, cheese, but most importantly, friends, family and fun! No stuffy cooking classes for us, with everyone so serious worrying about their knife skills or kneading ability- No! we laughed, sang, threw flour at each other, made faces, teased, and laughed some more as we partook of the vast array of wine the hosts offered and made the most delicious food I have ever tasted. All the staff were absolutely delightful, bringing their own unique personality to our outings and adventures in the beautiful Italian countryside. The accommodations in Soriano were authentic Italian, centuries old apartments on cobblestone streets with views of the castle on the top of the hill. Each guest home was outfitted with a bottle of wine, a bowl of fruit, homemade biscotti, milk, juice and sandwiches to help you settle in when you first arrive. If you needed anything at all, you merely had to ask and your need was met immediately. I can't say enough about the staff, from Michael and Paola who open their home and welcome us as if we were their long lost family (which we quickly became!), to the kitchen help, Katya and Rita, who worked tirelessly and always with a smile, to the head chef Carla whose skills in the cucina are worthy of Michelin ratings; to our leaders on outings- Ian the Aussie (ever heard an Australian Italian accent? buon giorno mates!), Linda- so beautiful and so bright and sunny the Italian sun has surely kissed her with many blessings; Rocky who was so accommodating and organizing everything so that not a need was overlooked. The BEST bus driver in the world, Sergio, navigating the twisty roads with an expertise of a professional; and many more people we met that week who all deserve mention and a huge thanks but I guess this review has to end at some point! If you are thinking of an Italian culinary vacation, then think CDV! You will not regret it. I will be going again!
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| Sample Photo from this Itinerary |