Christine, Ginger & Alice – United States
The accommodations were unique in many ways!
Dear Marcello,
Thank you for a professionally designed vacation in Puglia that reflected your love of Italy by taking my friends and me to the most beautiful places and allowing us sufficient time in each locale to explore.
Our driver, Francesco, was prompt each morning to pick us up at our accommodation. He was patient in busy traffic and we always felt safe. Several times he went out of his way to allow us to grab a special photo.
We were in awe as we came around the corner in Matera to see the city perched on the side of the hill! We agreed this was a high-point of our trip! What a surprise!
Our time at Masseria Corte Degli Asini was special because we were there four nights and became better acquainted with the members of the staff. The owner greeted us every evening at dinner.
Our first night in Le Masserie Zucaro was unique as we arrived later than scheduled, but were still served a delicious multi-course meal (I lost count!) Our hostess, Anna Lisa, did not speak much English, but we were able to communicate with each other like old friends. We were also surprised upon our arrival to receive a gift of a lovely scarf from you and your team. Thank you!
The accommodations were unique in many ways. One night there was a cave room and another night, a trullo room! We were so happy that we followed your advice to stay at each masserie as each was beautiful and relaxing in its own way and the menus, delicious. Everyone was so kind to us and we felt we were welcomed guests.
We were happy to have private guided tours. (We were so happy to NOT be in a pack of 30 people!) Each guide was kind and eager to answer our questions. Their direction around the cities allowed us to backtrack and spend more time in various spots. Each one spoke good English.
Ginger and I traveled home together and spent a night at Hotel Isola Sacra near Fiumicino to facilitate our flight back to the US. This, of course, is the same hotel you suggested to my family and to me last May. It was nice to stay there again.
I have only one comment. Our visit to Duca Carlo Guarini winery was the best we EVER experienced. Seeing the grapes come off the truck and better understand the process of wine making made our visit enjoyable and worthwhile. We did not enjoy the olive oil tasting at Il Frantoio. Our hostess was cold and gruff and intent on making us understand olive oil production to the point that we felt under pressure to answer her questions correctly. She gave the impression she did not want to be there.
This being my second trip this year arranged by you and your team, I am so grateful to have made your acquaintance and to have traveled your beautiful country in joy, in comfort and in safety.
Ciao e grazie mille,
Christine, Ginger and Alice – United States (September 2025)