A journey to Italy with La Spiga 2010

A journey to Italy with La Spiga 2010

La Spiga Restaurant in Seattle has partnered with Italy 4 Real; the leading provider of boutique travel to Italy for a journey through the food, history and culture of Italy.

The program was personally designed by co-owner Pietro Borghesi to bring you to the ancient places of his family to experience first hand the recipes, towns and people that made La Spiga famous.

Experience Parma, Rimini, San Marino, Bologna, just to name a few; and enjoy cooking lessons, wine tastings and the finest foods Italy has to offer.

Renowned for its Northern Italian cuisine, La Spiga is authentic enough in both food and ambience to make you feel a wave of nostalgia, even if you’ve never been to Emilia-Romagna. Chef and co-owner Sabrina Tinsley crafts the Romagnola cuisine to make it genuine, yet hers alone. Using the very finest ingredients, menus are changed seasonally to reflect what is freshest in local markets. As co-owner and host Pietro Borghesi says, “An evening at La Spiga is like dining in Italy — without the plane fare.”

The osteria is named for la spiga di grano (a shaft of wheat), the symbol of fertility, harvest and good fortune. It’s the essential ingredient of the pasta and quintessential Romagna peasant bread made daily on the premises. The piadina flatbread is served warm and luscious: crisp on the outside and soft inside, it warrants a visit in itself.



When: September 28 - October 9, 2010

Where: Central Italy - Parma, Rimini, San Marino, Bologna, just to name a few

Cost: From $2,992 per person/double occupancy
see pricing chart


Questions: 1-800-554-5170 or info@italy4real.com



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The Program


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September 28, 2010 - Arrival to Italy - Milan Airport to Parma

Included today: airport transfer, 4 star hotel, welcome drink, multi course welcome dinner.

About Parma: Parma, city of traditional aristocratic cultures, rich with preciouys works of art and a capital city in its past, famous for its most illustrious children and for artists who work within her-from Benedetto Antelami to Salimbene, from Correggio to Parmigianino, from Bodoni to Verdi and Toscanini, from Stendhal to Proust- is totally unlike any of the many beautiful cities that attract visitors to Italy.

Today's Events: Day 1

Arrival of the group in Milan. Pick up by private bus driver and departure for Parma. Arrival and check in at the 4 -Star Hotel Farnese in the centre of Parma. Accomodation and welcome drink. Time for you to relax and get familiar with this lovely art town. Welcome dinner in a traditional Trattoria and overnight stay.

About the Hotel Farnese: The recently renovated and upgraded 4-star hotel has always been one of Parma’s most cutting-edge. Its close location to the historical centre means guests can reach Parma’s Ospedale Maggiore, the Tardini Stadiumv, the Law Courts, all the museums, the Regio Theatre and the Paganini Auditorium from the hotel in just a few minutes.


September 29, 2010 - Giuseppe's Home & The King of Cheeses

Included today: minibus transfer, private cheese factory visit and private tasting, multi course lunch, private guided tour of Parma city centre, 4 star hotel.

Today's Events: Day 2

After breakfast, departure by private minibus to visit an amazing cheese factory of Parmigiano Reggiano. The visit will be extremely interesting: from the delivering of milk to the working and transformation of the traditional forms, to the salting and aging phase. This visit will last almost the entire morning and will conclude with a taste of this delicious cheese, famous in the whole world. Back to Parma where you will have lunch in one of the ancient “SALSAMENTERIE” in the town center.

After lunch, meet with your guide for a walking tour of this elegant city, little known by tourists, but loved for its excellent food. You will visit the Palazzo Ducale, the Palazzo della Pilotta, the Teatro Regio and Teatro Farnese, the enchanting Cathedral and Baptistery, etc. The itinerary led by the guide will explain artistic highlights, as well as eno-gastronomic details. Rest of the afternoon free for individual activities and dinner.


September 30, 2010 - The Culatello Experience!

Included today: minibus transfer, ham factory visit and private tasting, tasting lunch, private guided tour of Busseto, Balsamic Vinegar tour and tasting, multi course tasting dinner, 4 star hotel.

Today's Events: Day 3

Enjoy a lovely breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to a local ham factory producing the famous “culatello”. You will enjoy a private tasting and educational tour of Culatello making. During the visit to the maturing factory the visitors will learn that winter mist and humid cellars are essential elements for a good maturing process After the visit and the tasting competition, you will have the opportunity to taste all kinds of salted meats produced by the factory during your pleasant tasting lunch that will complete your visit.

Early in the afternoon transfer to Busseto. The Parma province is known as The Food Valley of Italy. It represents the motherland of a the greatest composer of Italy, Giuseppe Verdi, who wars born in Roncole di Busseto. This afternoon you will travel back in time by visiting his home, St. Agata , the Teatro Verdi and the Casa Museo Barezzi devoted to the artist's life.

Later in the afternoon departure for the area of Modena. The excursion will continue with the visit the ancient “Acetaia Pedroni” www.acetaiapedroni.it producing the renowned Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP – There you will meet the owner who will introduce you to the world of balsmic vinegar and its secrets. The day will end with a delicious early tasting dinner based on Aceto balsamico matched with traditional dishes. Back to Parma and overnight stay.


October 1, 2010 - Cervia & Milano Marttima

Included today: minibus transfer, tour of La Rocca di Fontanellato, 4 star hotel.

About Cervia: The Municipality of Cervia is located in Emilia Romagna, on a wonderful part of the Adriatic coast, 20km south of Ravenna. Its 10km shore characterised by fine sandy beaches and shallow water provides the setting for the resorts of Cervia, Milano Marittima, Pinarella and Tagliata. The office of Fondazione Cervia Ambiente was established here in 1973 for the improvement and protection of the environment. Cervia , the antique city of salt, is not just a seaside resort, but also a town steeped in culture and history. By strolling around the centre you will discover the charm of a city which was completely reconstructed brick by brick at the end of the XVII century. Milano Marittima is an exclusive and renowned resort on the Adriatic Riviera. In recent years it has become 'the place to be' for even the most demanding tourists.

Today's Events Day 4

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, check out and depart for Fontanellato before leaving for the coast, to visit one of the jewels of this area, La Rocca di Fontanellato. It rises high above the town centre surrounded by a wide moat. It contains a precious treasure, one of the masterpieces of Italian Mannerism, the room painted by Parmigianino in 1524 depicting the myth of Diana and Actaeon. The aristocratic apartment of the Sanvitale counts, who held the fortress until 1948, is still intact, with furniture and furnishings from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, portraits of various members of the family and frescoes and paintings by Felice Boselli.

The piazza still retains the charm of the Po Valley village, and from the ‘Camera Ottica’ it is still possible to secretly observe life there, as the fortress governors once did, thanks to an ingenious system of lenses and prisms. Lunch in a local nice trattoria. At the end of the visit departure for Cervia. Accomodation in your GRAND HOTEL GALLIA - in Milano Marittima. Dinner on your own and overnight stay.

About the Grand Hotel Gallia: The Grand Hotel Gallia has an excellent location, just a few metres away from the sea and from the Milano Marittima pinewood, an oasis of tranquillity and freshness. In just five minutes’ walk you can reach the centre of active social life and of the most famous and fashionable clubs and shops, and the convenience of having all the most interesting places at such a short distance makes this hotel one of the most famous ones in Milano Marittima.


October 2, 2010 - Ravenna

Included today: minibus transfer, guided winery visit and tasting, light lunch, private guided tour of Ravenna, optional dinner, 4 star hotel.

About Ravenna: Ravenna is a treasure chest of art, history and culture of the highest order, a city with ancient origins and a glorious past and capital three times, of the Western Roman Empire, of King Theodoric of the Goths and of the Byzantine Empire in Europe. The basilicas and baptisteries of the city contain the richest heritage of mosaics dating from the 5th and 6th centuries and eight historic buildings included in the World Heritage List of UNESCO. If Ravenna was the most important political and cultural centre of the West during the centuries that saw the decline of the Latin civilisation, it is no less important in later ages, from the archaeology of the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra to the vast Roman port of Classe. It is the city that guards the remains of Dante and keeps alive the memory of the great poet with important cultural events. The winding streets still reveal the past of a city built on a lagoon, the presence of water in the canals that cross it, closed during the period of Venetian rule and at the end of the fifteenth century opening the elegant space of Piazza Maggiore, now known as Piazza del Popolo.


Today's Events: Day 5

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. In the morning departure for your adventure. First stop at a local winery in the area of Bertinoro (province of Ravenna) where you will have a guided visit and tasting of the local wines. Lunch time will be spent at a local eatery that will host you for a light tasting lunch. After the visit depart for Ravenna for a guided visit of the town. After the tour enjoy some free time before going back to your hotel. This evening you can find your own dinner spot have a dinner at Pietro's favorite spot; the Restaurant la Frasca or Il Caminetto in Milano Marittina. Overnight stay.

October 3, 2010 - Repubblica di San Marino!

Included today: minibus transfer, free time in Rimini, multi-course lunch, private tour of San Marino, 4 star hotel.

About San Marino: The Republic of San Marino was founded in 301 A.D. and is the most ancient European Republic. An enclave situated in central Italy, 15 km from the Romagna Riviera, the Republic sits at 700 meters above sea level on Mount Titano, a prominence which gives the first hint of the presence of the Central Apennine Mountains.


Today's Events Day 6

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. This morning will be spent in Rimini, hometown of the great film maker Fellini. Free time to look around the town centre than departure Santarcangelo di Romagna. This beautiful village is as small gem in the territory of Romagna. According to the legend, this would be the town where the tragedy of Paolo and Francesca (the 2 lovers described into the Divine Comedy by Dante) took place. The village is surrounded by an atmosphere out of time and you will be surprised by the visit of the ancient grottos located under the soil of the village. This will be an unique experience that will remain in your memory. Lunch at a famous Osteria - where the flavours of the “Cucina Romagnola” reach their highligh with fresh homemade pasta, piadine, rich sauces and delicious roast meat. After lunch, a nice walk in the centre is suggested than departure for S. Marino. Guided walking tour of the centre with time on your own to take picture from the top of the mountain, with an amazing view of the valley and the coast. Time for a nice shopping along the narrow streets. Arrival at your hotel late in the afternoon. Dinner on your own and overnight stay.

October 4, 2010 - Faenza

Included today: minibus transfer, private guided tour of Faenza, visit to ceramics workshop, winery and cellar visit, tasting lunch, multi-course seafood dinner, 4 star hotel.

Faenza: Brief Area History: Faenza, along the via Emilia, is an ancient Roman city. Only a few architectural examples remain of the medieval period, for example: St. Hippolytus and the churches of St. Maria Foris Portam and the Commenda. The same cannot be said for what was one of the brightest periods of Faenza during the dominion of the Manfredi family. In fact, a thriving era began with the rebuilding of the Cathedral in 1474, with the influence of Tuscan renaissance art. Artists such as Giuliano and Benedetto da Maiano, Donatello, the Della Robbia, Biagio d'Antonio of Florence and others moved to Faenza to work. The Baroque period instead boasts many great architectural works that represent the current face of Faenza: the structure of the two main piazzas with fountain, the clock tower, the loggias and the arcade wings of the Palazzo del Comune (Town Hall) and the Palazzo del Podestà. Faenza's Ceramics: The ceramics of Faenza boasts a tradition of many centuries that also today continues to hold significant importance in artisan and industrial expression. The geographic location of the city makes it a meeting point between the Tuscan and Po cultures, becoming a ceramic centre of primary importance since the Middle Ages. The fame of these products of Faenza is such that the majolica is known throughout the world with the French name Faience.


Today's Events Day 7:

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Departure by private minibus to Faenza and guided visit of the town with a stop in a local workshop of ceramics where you can discover this ancient art that made Faenza famous around the world. At the end of the visit, departure for the coutryside to a local wine farm where you will have the chance to visit the wine cellars and have a delicious light tasting lunch of local delicacies. In the afternoon return to Cervia and free time for visiting and relax along the seaside. Dinner with seafood menu and overnight stay.

October 5, 2010 - Crossing the Apennies to the Spa!

Included today: minibus transfer, multi-course dinner, 4 star hotel.

Today's Events Day 8:

Buffet breakfast at your Hotel. Departure by private minibus to Bagno di Romagna, along the E45 speedway that crosses the Apennines chain. Arrival late in the morning and accommodation at the CASA PAOLO TEVERINI. Accommodation and time to enjoy the spa treatments offered by the property. Lunch on your own. Welcome dinner in the gourmet restaurant. Overnight stay.

About the Casa Paolo Teverini: Even though the exact date of foundation is unknown, there are written documents that it existed already in 1600 in the same position where it is now managed by the same family that still runs the business with big enthusiasm. Documents of the 18th century testify that the ancient inn included also a butchery with an attached stable for the change of the horses, the so called "posta". It was the only rest stop for travellers between Cesena and Florence. Nowadays the hotel became the destination of tourists that want to find the highest level of services but with a family management.

About the Spa: An extraordinary experience and a pleasant holiday during which all your senses will be involved by the perfumes, colors, and sweet notes of a relaxing and energizing environment where it is easy to relax and let yourself be fondled with many proposals for a holiday characterized by vitality, fun, and a healthy sport activity in a fairy-tale like landscape. On an ancient sea giving us ancient thermal waters, in the peacefulness of a hilly landscape...a place for senses, body, and mind welcoming you with the delicate perfume of flowers and essential oils, among murmured musical notes, where nature, science, and experience harmoniously mix... for a complete list of spa services just ask.


October 6, 2010 - Becoming a Chef!

Included today: minibus transfer, cooking course in Michelin Star restaurant, multi-course lunch, multi course candlelight dinner,4 star hotel.


Today's Events:

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. This morning will be devoted to the cooking class inside 1 Michelin star restaurant of Paolo Teverini with the pleasure to prepare a 3 course meal that you will enjoy for lunch. Rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy spa treatments, relax and enjoy all the plus of this lovely hotel in the silence of the nature. Candlelight dinner and overnight stay.


October 7, 2010 - Bologna

Included today: minibus transfer, guided tour of Bologna, tasting of area meats/cheeses, chocolate factory tour, visit of medieval market, multi course dinner, 4 star hotel.

Bologna: Brief Area History: The history of Bologna is so closely woven into its architectural structure that the monuments on the average tourist itinerary don’t even begin to tell the whole story. Visiting Bologna means losing yourself among the porticos and alleys, discovering stately old palazzi, and, yes, also visiting those monuments that have become the symbols of the city. The one real monument to Bologna is Bologna itself.


Today's Events Day 10:

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Departure for Bologna. Arrival and meeting with your guide for a panoramic walking tour of the centre. Accommodation at the centrally located Hotel TRE VECCHI . Time on your own for lunch. In the afternoon with your guide, you will continue the tour of the town visiting the historical “botteghe” (food shops) of the centre, where you can taste many traditional delicacies and have some sopping: the “drogheria “ (the spice shop), the “salsamentario” (sauces shop), the “sfogline” (the ladies who makes hand made pasta), the chocolate factory and final the fully coloured medieval market. Dinner in centre to have the first close encounter with the “Fat Bologna” through a traditional dinner . Overnight stay.

About Hotel Tre Vecchi: Your hotel is located on the main street of Bologna in an old building with a characteristic portico. Zanhotel Tre Vecchi is in the heart of the city centre and it is easily reached by any means Its 95 rooms are perfectly and elegantly furnished, all with air conditioning, satellite TV, PAY TV, Internet wi-fi, radio, minibar, and safe. A very rich hot buffet breakfast is served every morning into the characteristic dining room of the hotel.


October 8, 2010 - Tortellini's Passion!

Included today: minibus transfer, guided tour of oldest cooking school of Bologna, hands on cooking course, 3 course lunch, farewell dinner, 4 star hotel.

Today's Events Day 11:

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Today you are going to prepare the true “Tortellini” in one of the oldest school of Bologna. So, after a nice welcome coffee break where you will be introduced to the “operations” and to the history of the school, you will take your place and start to prepare your handmade tortellini from the making of the dough, use of the roll, preparation of the filling and final creation of the so called “Venus’ navel” (3 hours class), followed by a delicious tasting of your masterpiece. Afternoon on your own for your last visits and shopping and farewell dinner in centre. Overnight stay.


October 9, 2010 - Arrivederci Italia!

Today's Events: Buffet Breakfast at our Hotel. Check out and departure for Milan by private coach. Transfer to Malpensa Airport and end of your trip.

Program Price Chart

20 Passengers: $2,992.00 (Euro 2217) per person

18 Passengers: $3137.00 (Euro 2324) per person

15 Passengers: $3341.00 (Euro 2475) per person

13 Passengers: $3594.00 (Euro 2662) per person

based on 1.35 Euro exchange.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: € 300



This Program Includes:

  • Deluxe 25 seat Minibus ad disposal for the described program,including arrival and departure transfer from Milano Malpensa

  • Check point fees, highway toll and driver’s lunch where necessary

  • 3 nights in classic double rooms at the B.W HOTEL FARNESE –5 stars – Parma, b&b accommodation

  • 4 nights in double deluxe rooms at the GRAND HOTEL GALLIA –

  • 4 star sup. – Milano Marittima – in b&b accommodation.

  • 2 nights in classic double rooms at the CASA PAOLO TEVERINI –

  • 4 stars - in Bagno di Romagna – in HB accommodation

  • 2 nights in classic double rooms at the HOTEL TRE VECCHI – 4 star – centrally located in Bologna – b&b accommodation

  • Welcome dinner in a traditional Trattoria in Parma

  • Lunch in a Salsamenteria in Parma

  • Lunch in a trattoria in Fontanellato area

  • Tasting lunch in a wine estate in Ravenna area

  • Lunch at La Sangiovesa in Santarcangelo di Romagna

  • Tastino lunch in a wine estate in the Faenza area

  • Dinner at the Circolo dei Pescatori in Cervia

  • 2 dinners at the Paolo Teverini hotel restaurants

  • Dinner in trattoria in Bologna

  • Farewell dinner in Bologna

  • Culatello experience in a local farm followed by tasting lunch including wines

  • Guided visit in a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory with tasting

  • Guided visit to a Balsamic Vinegard farm followed by tasting dinner

  • Guided visit and tasting in a wine estate in the Ravenna area

  • Guided visit in a ceramic workshop in Faenza

  • 3 hour hands on cooking class at the Paolo Teverini Hotel followed by buffet lunch

  • 3 hour hands on tortellini making class in Bologna followed by tasting lunch including wine

  • HD walking tour at: Parma – Busseto – Fontanellato – Ravenna – S. Marino – Santarcangelo – Faenza – Bologna

  • Our assistance on the spot.

About your stay at the Casa Paolo Teverini - The stay also includes:

  • Every day a rich buffet breakfast service with a selection of home-made items
  • 1 candlelight dinner to the Paolo Teverini Restaurant
  • 1 inviting and heady dinner to the "Pret à Porter" Restaurant with a 4 courses menu

The quote does not include:

  • Drinks during lunches/dinners where not indicated
  • Entrance tickets
  • Tips
  • Airfare
  • Everything not listed above

THE SELECTED HOTELS:

  • HOTEL FARNESE– PARMA
  • GRAND HOTEL GALLIA – MILANO MARITTIMA
  • CASA PAOLO TEVERINI – BAGNO DI ROMAGNA
  • HOTEL TRE VECCHI – BOLOGNA



Travel 4 Real Radio Show May 10th, 2010

This weeks radio show features how India's rare tigers are threatened by tourists who come to see the great beasts.

Also we cover the Lonely Planet Awards.

Listen in!

http://www.travel4realradio.com/Download/Travel4realradio_May_10_2010.mp3

The French Hate Americans

We hear it all the time, it’s almost a cliché when traveling to Europe. The French are rude; give Americans poor service and now they hate us. They hate us for the way we handled the war, for being gas guzzling, overeating Americans.. right?

WRONG – Absolutely wrong. I travel for a living all over the world; scouting new locations for my travel business. Before my most recent trip to Paris I was actually gearing up for the extra rude service, short fuses and maybe a physical attack. I bought a passport cover so when I pulled it out people could not see I was an American… how stupid.

Not only was my paranoia an over reaction, but it was a complete waste of energy and time. The French people were polite, gracious, respectful and at times went out of there way to make me feel at home.

You may be thinking “He travels for a living, he probably dresses like the locals and speaks French” Wrong again; I hardly speak a lick of French and when out and about I look like your average American.

While strolling near the Boulevard Saint-Germain taking pictures, a local noticed I was alone and offered to take a photo of me with my camera. How nice.. how darn nice; I was thrown.

In a restaurant on the Champs-Elysées which is a touristy area, I really expected rude waiters, long stairs and poor service. I got the exact opposite. A friendly waiter who tried his best to accommodate my needs in English and great service despite the fact I was dressed in cargo pants, sandals and a t-shirt from walking around all day.

I began looking for the famous “rude Frenchman” I began sitting in cafes observing tourists, hoping to see something to tell me my good experiences were a fluke. The closest thing I found was a mildly annoyed metro employee… big deal.

I was eager to speak with a French person to get the scoop on the whole “American thing” Later that afternoon one of my scheduled business meetings began at my hotel. I asked the rep I was meeting if we he could take me to a café for coffee to discuss business. This would be my opportunity to corner a local and get the goods. He said “I know of a great café that just opened” so we began to walk the narrow streets of Paris. We arrived to the café and to my astonishment I was taken to Starbucks! Yes, Starbucks. I was thrown into an American institution of the coffee world, smack in the middle of Paris. What better setting to discuss how the French think toward Americans.

After two café lattes, I was enlightened. It all made sense now. The French and many Europeans in general see the people of America separately from their government. They realize that it’s the powers that be that are to blame, not the American people. It really makes sense if you think about it. Europeans have seen themselves separated and in some cases alienated by their own governments for centuries. They see Americans in the same light.

As I walk thought out the city of Paris I am amazed at the number of monuments and institutions dedicated to America. Many people know that there is a smaller copy of the statue of Liberty in Paris, but did you know there are three? Did you know there is an American church or an entire district of the city dedicated to the USA? The 16th district in the heart of the city is the American area of town where more than 25,000 Americans live and are considered a welcome part of the city.

The French people are flabbergasted that Americans may feel they are not welcome. There is a major factor which the current trend has not taken into consideration. The French would not be on the planet if it were not for the Americans and British. This fact its engrained in every French person. America was the savior of their world. During my visit; there was a celebration of the liberation of Paris on August 26, 1944. The city was plastered with photos of American, British and French people celebrating the victory from the tyranny of Hitler.

We must realize that what the US did for Europe and France during the second world war greatly outweighs any adverse statements or disagreements made by the past administrations of both countries.

America the great melting pot, the great hero of Europe needs to rise above the rhetoric, the fear the media throws at us, the negative light and understand they are welcome, wanted and embraced by a society who is still greatly indebted to the good old USA.

If you are a traveler or will be to Europe, please, please let down your guard and you will experience nothing but the crisp air, good food, a bottle of wine, and smile from an old friend from across the world.

Pleasant surprise at a road side inn

Being in the tour operating business; I have seen many hotels, motels, inns, B&B’s, villas and rentals. I think the last time I counted; I may have seen several thousand.

The Coachman Inn in Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island was a pleasant surprise for a road side inn. Road side inns gained their popularity in the 1950’s when the route 66 generation hit the roads to explore America. Hundreds upon hundreds of two and three story outside access motels spouted up along roads like dandelions.

These properties are several decades old so many of them can be stricken with “drab from the past syndrome” where flower drapes, old carpet and out of date bed covers abound; but not the Coachman Inn.

When you enter your room; you notice the tasteful upgrades the moment you key in. The double bed presentation was superb with a setup you would find in the Four Seasons with great pillows, textured white linens with a touch of color from a well done throw.

Flat screen TV’s in many rooms, nicely finished loveseat, chair and wood coffee table cluster make the room feel homey. A tiled backsplash kitchenette stocked with all you need to create meal put a nice finishing touch on the room.

The bathroom while dated was done very well and added a retro feel to the updated overall appearance.

Some of the things you don’t expect to see in a road side inn which you do at the Coachman are full toiletries including shoe shine cloth, good quality shampoos, lotions and very nice heavy towels.

The lobby is well done with high quality furniture and an amazing lobby bathroom (the kind you wish you had in your room) several flat screens and a few gas fireplaces; again not what you would expect to see in a road side inn. Elizabeth, the weekend front desk person was friendly, very organized and gave us great suggestions for family walks, outside adventures, shopping and dining recommendations.

The breakfast is more than you would expect with eggs, good coffee selection, cereals, English muffins and their own homemade biscuits and gravy. The breakfast room is quite small so try to go early or late so you aren’t bumping elbows with your fellow “inners”

During our visit in February the pool was closed but the Jacuzzi was open, clean and welcoming.

Another impressive element of this road side inn was the usually barren spaces in the parking lot. Those “islands” of parking barriers and grass strips were all well groomed landscapes with lovely planters, well manicured flowers, plants and what seemed to be Bonsai’s.

The Coachman Inn is located just down the road from Deception Pass State Park which is a 4,134-acre marine and camping park with 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline, and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline on three lakes. Rugged cliffs drop to meet the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. The park is outstanding for breath-taking views, old-growth forests and abundant wildlife; the inn makes a great base location to see this amazing park.

Don’t expect any views, business centers or room service but what you can expect is a great road side inn that delivers way more than expected and one that is located on a great island near amazing outdoor activities.

The Coachman Inn can be booked with special Travel 4 Real pricing by contacting us at info@travel4real.com or by calling 425-355-3711

Amazing Cooking Tour in Abruzzo Region Italy

Days/Nights: 7days - 6 nights
Hotels: Countryside Inn
Departure Date: Any date, all year
Valid till: 31, October, 2010
Price: $,2696 per person (Euro 1,899)

Ready to book: (link to shopping cart page)

So you like cooking? Want to experience the real Italy in a way that explores the foods, ingredients and flavors of the local area while participating in hands on cooking classes with local professionals? Well Italy 4 Real’s cooking courses are custom designed and hand selected for their quality, experience and support local growers, markets and producers.

This program takes place in the Abruzzo Region of Italy. Located within easy reach of Rome the Abruzzo region is a un-touched wonderland of flavors, sights, sounds and the old world charm not found in main-stream Italy.

Abruzzo is a journey into the past to experience Italy from times long past. Not only will you experience a truly local experience but you will enjoy cooking courses, markets, olive oil, wines, desserts and the finest cheeses, pastas and meats; all in a hands on relaxed environment.

Day 1 Highlights: Arrival to Rome, Private Airport Transfer, Relax & Unpack, Welcome Cocktail and Grand Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Rome

DAY 1: Arrival to Rome – Welcome to Italy!

This tour includes a private transfer from the Rome airport to your host hotel. Drive across the Abruzzo mountains towards your country inn accommodations in the town of Carunchio, where you will be staying. After you are settled in, we'll meet for a cocktail and a briefing of the tour. A welcome dinner will follow, with a multicourse meal. Welcome to Italy!

Your hotel is an elegant countryside inn and former palace. Your hotel will have all the comforts of home.

Day 2 Highlights: Carunchio Old Town, Salami Production, Olive Oil Press, Cooking Course with Lunch

DAY 2: The heart of Abruzzo - Carnunchio, Cooking and Production

After a short morning walk around the old-town, we get started on our first class. We'll explore the basic ingredients of traditional Abruzzo cuisine and make some flavorful sauces for pasta dishes.

The theme for this lunch will be "quick and healthy homemade meals". You'll see how delicious, easy, and healthy Abruzzese cooking can be. We'll lunch on our tasty creations in traditional Italian style, slowly and in good company!

After lunch, you'll rest up for the afternoon activities. We will visit a local salami production plant and learn how this incredible product is made, and what distinguishes Abruzzo's salami from the rest. Next, we will visit an organic olive oil press, where the owner of the farm will show us the traditional ways of making the “real extra virgin olive oil”. Free for the remainder of day and evening.

Day 3 Highlights: Cooking Course with Lunch, Molise Region, Mozzarella Factory, Bell Foundry

DAY 3: Cooking, Mozzarella & the Region of Molise

Learn how much fun and delicious making pasta can be, in a variety of colors and shapes. We'll teach you all the tricks so it turns out great every time. You will be amazed by the variety: pasta alla chitarra, gnocchi, cavatelli, stuffed pasta and so on.

After lunch, we'll take you down to Agnone, in the region of Molise, where you can watch real family production of mozzarella, burrata and caciocavallo. Agnone is famous in the area for its quality cheese. Then we will visit a historic artisan bell foundry which still makes church bells manually for the Vatican. We will learn about the manufacturing phases. Free for the evening

Day 4 Highlights: Fishing Houses, Soap Factory, Lunch Dinner

DAY 4: Regional Production, Seafood & Shopping

The day starts with a visit to the curious trabocchi fishing houses, a unique piece of art that is available only on this small strip of the Adriatic. Next we will explore an organic soap manufactory that has improved an old recipe to make soap with olive oil, goat’s milk and donkey milk. Lunch at the best restaurant in town, serving a seafood sampling feast. After lunch we’ll have the opportunity to do some window shopping in Vasto. Dinner back at your accommodation.

Day 5 Highlights: Arrival to Rome, Private Airport Transfer, Relax & Unpack!

DAY 5: Preservation

Learn how to preserve fruits and vegetables in the Italian way. Make fruit preserves and a variety of pickled vegetables, plus learn how to preserve using oil and vinegar. Taste and find out how these ingredients are a big part of the Abruzzese cuisine. Later, We'll learn how to make Limoncello and you'll taste a variety of liqueurs created from local ingredients, such as amaro Abruzzese and Centerba.

In the afternoon you'll be free to walk around town and enjoy the peaceful environment in the small village of Carunchio. Free for the evening.

Day 6 Highlights: Dessert Workshop, Lunch, Sommelier Class

DAY 6: Learn to be a Sommelier & Dessert Workshop

Learn how to make mouth watering desserts and pair them with the liqueurs made the previous day. Almond biscotti, bocconotto, and much more. After lunch, we'll enjoy a sommelier class. In just three hours, we’ll show the basic skills on how to sample and pair wines.

This tour includes our free TRIP PAK which has over $50 in free maps, sightseeing, dining and regional guides. Your TripPak will show you plenty of things to do during your free time when you arrive to Rome!

Day 7 Highlights: Private airport transfer

DAY 7: All Roads Lead to Rome

On this day we take you back to the airport or hotel if you are continuing your trip and make sure you're going home with everything you came for. Last minute shopping, postcards or other requests can be fit in according to schedules.

Ask your Travel Expert about some of the great optional tours you can experience while in Italy such as renting a Vespa scooter or wine tasting at the InternationalAcademy of Wine. Italy4Real has dozens of great things to do!

Departure Dates 2010/2011: PICK YOUR DATES, ANY DAY ALL YEAR STATUS : ALL DATES AVAILABLE -BOOKING NOW

You will select your requested departure date during check out

Important notes about this Tour

Elegant country inn for 6 nights
Transport by modern sedans and vans
All breakfasts are included
Multiple lunches and dinners
Multiple cooking courses
Multiple outings and visits
All taxes included!
Tour host for duration of tour
Tours are guaranteed in English
Group Size: Small Guaranteed Departure with Min 2 people.
The tour does not include: airfare, tips, baggage handling
All tours are governed by the Terms & Conditions

Question? Fill out the Quick Quote Request box below
©2010 Travel 4 Real LLC.
Licensed as providers of travel and tour operators. License number: 602031659

Travel 4 Real Owners Rem Malloy & Deborah de Maio on NBC in Seattle


Travel 4 Real owners; Rem Malloy and Deborah de Maio appear on NBC KING5 Morning Show in Seattle on March 11th, 2010. They were on to feature two different packing methods; one homemade and the other by Eagle Creek.

Visit all of the Travel 4 Real websites

http://www.italy4real.com/index.php

http://www.france4real.com/


http://brazil4real.com/

http://www.greece4real.com/




Florence, Italy Apartment Rental. 22 New Flats in City Center

New large Florence apartment rentals. 22 different apartments located in historical center. 1-8 people 1-3 bedroom. New construction, Secured parking on site, Internet, AC, Laundry, private courtyard. Cost less than many hotels. Book online now at http://www.italy4real.com/florence_italy_apartment_rental.php



Travel 4 Real Radio Show March 1st, 2010

Listen to the latest Travel 4 Real Radio Broadcast. In this show we discuss the new lie-flat seats in coach class, packing ideas and a review of the BIT trade fair in Milan, Italy

http://www.travel4realradio.com/Download/Travel4realradio_03_01_10.mp3


2010 BIT Trade Fair in Milan with Italy 4 Real

The largest Italian travel product exhibition in the world; the International Tourism Exchange or better known as the BIT is held in Milan each year.

The first BIT debuted in 1985 and since then has become one of the most important travel fairs in the world. Held in 8 pavilions that span 57,000 square meters the BIT pulls impressive numbers. The four day event involves over 153,000 visitors including 100,000 professional operators from 150 countries. 3,400 journalists produce 4,000 articles, 100 TV broadcasts and 18 live radio broadcasts from the show.

Italy is impressively represented with nearly all known tourist products, regions, provinces, municipalities and operators; each having impressive and sometimes massive displays.
Craftsman and artisans from throughout Italy come to promote their regions historic past with live demonstrations throughout the venue.

While Italy is the main focus of the BIT; the fair is also an international presentation of tourism worldwide with over 150 countries represented. Each country presents it best products for buyers from around the world.

This year’s event included BIT “sport land” dedicated to open air sport tourism with a focus on three outdoor sports; golf cycling and mountain biking.

The fair includes one of the most productive elements called “buy Italy” which is in its 25th year and is the most important workshop for Italian tourism products. The two day workshop is a meeting point for 2,200 sellers and 540 international buyers from over 55 countries.

Travel 4 Real is the parent company of superior travel products such as www.Italy4Real.com , www.greece4Real.com and www.france4real.com . Travel 4 Real can provide 360 degrees of booking coverage for Europe, North and South America.

Travel 4 Real Selected as Top 50 Women Owned Businesses in Washington State

TRAVEL 4 REAL, LLC has been selected as one of the Top 50 Women Owned Businesses in Washington by DiversityBusiness.com.

Travel 4 Real owner; Deborah de Maio has distinguished herself as one of the top entrepreneurs in the country and are most deserving of this award and recognition.

Over 650,000 businesses in the United Sates had the opportunity to participate in the 10th annual business survey. The awards are based on annual gross revenue and the business profile.

This award is the basis of the annual "Top Business List" which is seen by over 15 million people and is used by Fortune 500 companies and large buying organizations to find new business partners.

The list is the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the United States economy - America's privately held companies. This esteemed, elite list is coveted by the most successful companies in the U.S. The list has become the most recognized and respected compilation of companies that truly differentiate themselves in the market place in a time when doing so has never been more important.

As an award winner Travel 4 Real will be honored at the "10th Annual National Business Awards Ceremony and Conference". The event on April 27 - April 29, 2010 brings together America 's "Top Business Owners" and the "Top Fortune 500" companies for promoting business opportunities. Attendance is expected to top 1200. The ceremony and conference will be held at Gaylord National Resort and Conference Center in Washington, D.C.

About Travel 4 Real
Travel 4 Real is DMC (Destination Management Company) and tour operator committed to providing you with the highest quality and most unique travel experience available. Travel 4 Real LLC is the parent company of some of the most unique travel brands available such as: Italy 4 Real, France 4 Real,
Greece 4 Real and Brazil 4 Real just to name a few.

Each travel resource is a dedicated treasure trove of information, services and solutions for any travel need. Each brand offers completely customizable travel solutions, escorted tours and detailed information to research the perfect trip.
Travel 4 Real corporate philosophy is to provide the public and corporate sectors with destination management, event planning and travel resources through our network of travel brands.

Travel 4 Real practices and promotes the Global Code of Ethics of Tourism which has official recognition by the UN General Assembly through its resolution A/RES/56/212.

Travel 4 Real’s dedicated tourism resources are committed to the sustainable development of tourism for all. It is our obligation to provide tourists with objective and honest information on our places of destination and on the conditions of travel, hospitality and stays and that we ensure that the contractual clauses proposed to our customers are readily understandable as to the nature, price and quality of the services we provide - this is what "real" travel is all about.

Owned by mother and son; Deborah de Maio & Rem Malloy with headquarters in Everett, Washington and satellite offices in Italy, France and Greece.

Download the latest Travel 4 Real Radio Show Feb 8th, 2010

Hi everyone you can download this weeks show. Take a listen and let us know what you think

http://www.travel4realradio.com/Download/Travel4realradio_Feb_08_10.mp3

Download the latest Travel 4 Real Radio broadcast Feb 1, 2010

Hi everyone you can download todays show. Take a listen and let us know what you think

http://www.travel4realradio.com/Download/travel4realradio_feb_1_2010.mp3


Travel 4 Real – Your Ticket to Ride the World radio show is one of the most entertaining, informative and funny radio broadcasts about travel and life. Hosted by a mother and son travel team who are professional guides, lecturers and founders of Travel 4 Real LLC; Deborah de Maio
& Rem Malloy.

Broadcast by KLAY 1180am and part of the USA Radio Network; Travel 4 Real Radio offers a new prospective on the travel industry with commentary on current events, destination reviews, the latest travel deals, local events, international travel, and suggestions for planning your own vacation. The show gives our listeners the practical information not found in guide books to help them plan any trip across the world or in their own back yard.

Visit the show website: http://www.travel4realradio.com/

Visit all of our travel products

ITALY4REAL.COM http://www.italy4real.com is the premier source for information and travel services to Italy. Featuring over 100 pages of info to research your trip, fantastic escorted tours, unique sightseeing and the ability to connect LIVE online to an Italy travel planning expert for FREE

GREECE4REAL.COM http://www.greece4real.com Athens or Santorini, Ios or Rhodes? Greece 4 Real offers a select group of escorted tours and custom trip planning options to spark your imagination and help you plan the perfect trip and live life as a Greek!

FRANCE4REAL.COM http://www.france4real.com How about getting out of Paris on you next trip to France? France 4 Real offers the solo traveler to France custom trip planning options to spark your imagination and help you plan the perfect trip. Sightseeing , Paris apartments, Normandy and more!

BRAZIL4REAL.COM http://www.brazil4real.com Brazil is the host the 2016 Olympic Games and we’re ready with a selection of custom designed tours from Copacabana Beach to the Amazon rain forest.

Travel 4 Real Radio Show Jan 25th Listen Now


The Travel 4 Real Radio show on KLAY 1180 in the Seattle radio market show number 001 can be heard at http://www.travel4realradio.com/Download/travel4realradio_CL_interview.mp3

Travel 4 Real – Your Ticket to Ride the World radio show is one of the most entertaining, informative and funny radio broadcasts about travel and life. Hosted by a mother and son travel team who are professional guides, lecturers and founders of Travel 4 Real LLC; Deborah de Maio
& Rem Malloy.

Broadcast by KLAY 1180am and part of the USA Radio Network; Travel 4 Real Radio offers a new prospective on the travel industry with commentary on current events, destination reviews, the latest travel deals, local events, international travel, and suggestions for planning your own vacation. The show gives our listeners the practical information not found in guide books to help them plan any trip across the world or in their own back yard.

For information and airing schedules visit http://www.travel4realradio.com/index.html

Sign up for a email reminder to listen to Travel 4 Real Radio LIVE

Sign up on this link for a email reminder to be sent as the radio show goes LIVE on Monday Jan 25th Click HERE to sign up to listen!

For more information on the show go to: www.travel4realradio.com