Flexible, dedicated professionals who curate wonderful experiences
Italy
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May 22 - Jun 3, 2025
Arianna spent almost nine months working with me on a specialized tour of Northern Italy, that offered us flexibility to visit family as well as unusual, less toursity areas of the country. Over that time, significant changes occurred requiring alterations to our trip plan (e.g., number of people traveling, exact dates, locations to visit, accommodations needed, availability of direct flights, etc.) Arianna professionally and graciously lept into action to cooperatively problem-solve. When I needed suggestions, she delivered helpful information, but there was never any pressure or inflexibility. Every traveler need is thoughtfully addressed, with patience and aptitude, and the things you don't even know you want are delivered.
The accommodations she secured for us in Sirmione and Cortina d’Ampezzo were spectacular. We expressed our overall travel preferences and budget and Arianna found lodging that far exceeded our expectations in some locations, while meeting expectations in the others.
Tours and experiences Arianna booked offered us unique, high-quality, individualized access to information and places we would never have found on our own. We wished we booked more!
Hotel Reviews
The hotel was a marvel of renovation and in a great, central location in the upper città. Bed was comfortable, service was excellent, breakfast was good. The only notes I would offer for fellow travelers to this location are that it is adjacent to a tourist destination (park and fountain) over which our room faced, so it was quite loud. The nightly cost to park a car is quite high.
If I had to live in a hotel, this would be the one. Everything about its unique character and exceptional delighted my soul, but the location and staff make it even more special than the architect and interior designer could have envisioned. Every glorious concept is so thoughtfully executed. The rooftop spa is something magical. Truly. I cannot wait to get back to it.
The hotel is an older accommodation in a decent location. Its staff are shining stars, however, and had the attitude and approach of a high-end place. It was relatively quiet and comfortable, with a typical breakfast.
A resort and spa with a very luxe look and feel. Staff were impeccably dressed to indicate their role and function, underground parking was available, including electric charging, the entire facility was gated and closely controlled. The breakfast filled two rooms and included every option imaginable, including accommodating various dietary restrictions. The location was stellar--only a five-minute walk to Scaliger castle. But the spa facilities themselves were amazing. We sadly had little time to enjoy many aspects, as we were doing tours and visiting with family, but we wished we could have booked a few more days to enjoy the thermal baths and spa services. Notes: it is adults only, and the thermal spa comfortably accommodates a small number of guests at a time.
Activity Reviews
Wonderful, moving experience to the the Last Supper and fully-appreciate how remarkable it is that the piece has survived, and restoration of this meticulous sort, has been achieved. The other highlights of the tour were also fantastic--ancient historical buildings, artworks, culture, politics--across thousands of years. Deborah was patient and excellent.
Wonderful, knowledgeable tour guide who showed us the highlights of Sirmione by walking and private boat ride. Highly recommend.
The chef we worked with was passionate about his craft and taught us special techniques for making homemade pasta, unique to the region. It felt odd cooking in the dining room so near the entrance, using a portable stovetop, and not in a kitchen, but it was still a great experience. A bit rushed.
Hi Gretchen,
your words truly mean the world to us! It was such a pleasure helping you craft this meaningful journey through Northern Italy. I loved working with you every step of the way and appreciated your trust and collaboration. We're so grateful for the kind feedback and thrilled that both experiences and hotels exceeded expectations. We can’t wait to plan your next adventure!
Warm greetings from the whole Storywalking team!
Arianna