I have just returned home from the most wonderful vacation of my life. The "Country Roads of Italy" tour 72204/02E09A was an event that will be hard to duplicate in this lifetime. I must credit much of the magic to both our tour director Jackie Whiteford and our driver Umberto Astore.

Umberto was not only confident and capable, but his defensive driving was superlative. He was always there with a warm smile and greeting to offer his hand as we got on and off the bus. He even made sure we had assistance on some of the boats. When parking permitted he would follow behind our group (especially in the busy cities), as a security. Bravo Umberto!

Our Tour Director - Jackie Whiteford is a priceless gem. Her knowledge of Italy - traditions, history, art, music, etc. is unsurpassable.
Her passion for this country comes through as a bright as a lighthouse beacon. Everywhere we went Jackie knew the people, and there was genuine warmth in their hugs. Jackie's care in all she did for our tour was perfection. From calling in a doctor to helping us find specialty shops - Jackie had all the right connections.

I credit both Jackie and Umberto as the main ingredients in a recipe that bonded 27 complete strangers in 15 short days. So much so that most of us have set a goal to meet again in two years time, requesting our same guide and driver.

Kaysee
Jackie was tour director on my Country Roads of Italy tour in September last year.

I agree with you 100 percent. Jackie genuinely cared for every single person on the tour and left no stone unturned to make sure everyone was comfortable.

The tour I did had quite a few ladies who had disabilities and she literally bent over backwards to make sure that they were able to participate in just about everything.

The most memorable time with Jackie was the picnic in Bagno Vignoni, near Pienza. It really was the icing on the cake. First of all we all paddled our feet in the mineral spa, before enjoying the picnic of Porchetta, salami, picorino cheese, olives, honey, bread and wine. It really was magic.

But most of all, Jackie became a great friend.

Gennevive,
We had the same picnic at Bagno Vignoni and I agree - it was truly magical. After visiting the mineral spa we also had a feast on the hillside with that beautiful view, and the sun shining in the sky. I must admit that with all of the treasures Jackie shared with us this one is at the top of the list.

Funny, how the simple things become the most treasured memories. Who would have credited that a picnic in such a place would be so memorable. I just loved the honey and pecorini cheese together. How about you? The Porchetta was pretty special too!

Kaysee,
What is your opinion of the Hotel Continental in Venice. For some unknown reason, Insight switched hotels from 2008 at the Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria on Venice Lido Hotel, which is rated quite high, to the Continental that isn't rated very well. I'd be interested in your thoughts.

Bonnie J
I have stayed at both the Continental and Hungaria Palace. I did prefer the Hungaria Palace, mainly because of its location, it is close to a beach, there are cafes and shops in the same street. The Continental does not have a beach close by, but it does have plenty of cafes and shops. Both hotels were comfortable so I would not worry that you are being moved to a lesser quality hotel.
Gen

It's a BIG plus being able to stay on the main island (Continental) rather than the Lido (Hungaria Palace). Most tours stay on the Lido or in Mestre so I'd say your change was for the better.

I agree with Sue Gillen.

I would much prefer to stay at an older hotel such as the Continental Hotel, right on the Grand Canal in Venice and right in the heart of everything, than be over on The Lido even if the Lido Hotel was newer and had more "stars".

One of my favorite memories of Venice is seeing our luggage arriving by boat. Where else but the Grand Canal???
There's a great little grocery shop next to the Continental. Yummy pasteries and Bellinis in a bottle. LOVE shopping in those little shops

I guess the other benefit of staying at the Continental is that there is no road traffic as there is on the Lido. Something I did enjoy was the little pizza bar just a little way up the road from the Continental, a few of us enjoyed the best wine (Portugese) and pizza one warm September evening, we also made friends with some Austrian's who were on holiday too. Make sure you keep your windows closed at night though if you stay at the Continental. The insects are in their multitudes at night time.