Our last day in Rome began with a tour of St. Peter's Basilica - the stunning centerpiece of Vatican City. I had been here many many years before, on a school trip. We attended Easter Mass with the Pope and that was spectacular, but honestly a blur. I don't think I got much out of it.
This trip was MUCH better because we had context from our guides. There is no comparison. Guides are not allowed to conduct tours inside the Basilica which is an active church. Simone prepped us for what we would see inside before we entered. Again, priceless art like the Pieta by Michelangelo and the imposing altarpiece dominate the space. I feel truly honored to have been able to see these treasures and to have our guides put them in context for us. What a special experience!
Pro Tip: If you visit Italy, remember to have your shoulders and knees covered when going into churches. Take a scarf to drape over you if the weather is warm.
We said goodbye to Rome following our tour. I would love to go back to Rome sometime. And, since I threw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, I am sure that I will!!
Our group boarded our Motorcoach for the ride to Tuscany and Florence. First, we would make a stop in Orvieto, a charming medieval town that feels of another time. Here, we enjoyed a special lunch and on our own time to tour and shop.
Aboard our motorcoach, our Italian ABD Guide, Marcello gave us some Italian language and culture lessons as we rode. Ken also had some refreshments for us. Truly, we never wanted for anything!
The Tuscan countryside provided a gorgeous backdrop with olive orchards, vineyards and the Chianti Mountains. I have been in some beautiful places before. But, Tuscany was just gorgeous!! This was the part of the trip that I was most excited for. I think ABD made a good choice here to have us stay in the countryside instead of the city. It's a nice break from the city and the crowds.
We checked into the Hotel Borgo and our luggage magically appeared for us. That evening, we enjoyed our Adult wine-tasting dinner at the hotel while the Junior Adventurers had a movie night and pizza. One of the best aspects of ABD is that you meet people from all over. The Guides are careful to seat families or couples with different people so you can get to know each other on the trip. We had dinner with a family from Canada whose daughters were similar ages to our girls. The meal was lovely and we enjoyed our time here.
The photo is the view from our room at the Hotel Borgo. Photos do not do it justice. Tuscany - I can't describe it. It's more beautiful than any picture will ever show. Just go.
Mary Graham / Trips by Mary has been professionally planning travel for over seven years. I have personally been on two Adventures by Disney, and planned many more for my clients.
To start planning your trip, please visit my Calendly and schedule a Discover Call: https://calendly.com/trips-by-mary/discoverymeeting
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