Viva Siena Inc.

Can I afford it?

 

My trips are all customized to  fit your needs so the price will vary for each group.  

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If I don’t know what to do, can you suggest an itinerary?
Of course, I consult with my Italian Tour Operators that assist me with an ideal itinerary to fit your budget and needs.

 

Is there any limit to what we can plan?
You can plan an itinerary that will take you all over Italy or just a specific region of your choice for a certain length of time. I also specialize in Sicily where my grandparents were born and raised. I also lived in Sicily. I have sent clients all over Europe. Living in Spain in the late eighties enables me to assist those interested in a unique Spanish vacation. 

 

Do I have to plan my own transportation once I get there?

My Italian Tour Operators provide all the transportation prior to your trip. It is included in the cost of the trip  My clients usually choose private drivers.

 

Have you seen or stayed at the hotel or villas we are staying at?
Yes I have. I believe in seeing is believing!!!  It is important that I have lived , breathed, and tasted the places that you will discover.

 

Who do I contact if we have any problems while in Italy?
My Italian Tour Operators give me their private cell phone numbers in case of any emergency. I also recommend renting a phone, a service that I also provide.

 

How far in advance do I need to book my trip?
I suggest booking at least two to four months in advance.  This allows my Italian Tour Operators to make all the necessary reservations with their suppliers. I do need a $500.00 deposit prior to planning a trip. This is my consultation fee and my Tour Operator's fee varies with the details involved with the planning. 

 

What’s the next step once I book my trip?
I require 50% of total cost of trip.  3 months prior to the trip , I require the total amount to be paid in full. I will send all the require documents and vouchers after payment is received via e-mail or regular mail. Please read my cancellation policies under Terms and Conditions.

 

Do you have any other recommendations for traveling overseas?

Yes, always make copies of your passport. Keep several with you and give one to someone back home.  Call you credit card company prior to departure to let them know you will be in Italy for a certain length of time.  I like to bring more than one credit card.  Separate some of your money and credit cards. Don’t keep all your important items together. Leave extra cash in another place besides your wallet.  Carry all your emergency telephone numbers with you and give your itinerary with phone numbers with a family member back home.  Travel lightly and bring an extra duffel bag inside your luggage for future purchases.

 

Tipping: What is the appropriate amount of tipping for the Private Transfer drivers, Guides, Bellhops, Room Service, Restaurant servers, etc.?
I usually like to tip my drivers after a full day of service. 5 Euros per person. So 20 or 30 Euros if  they spend the whole day. I also like to tip the waiters 10% of the bill. It is up to you. If you have a private guide explaining things for 3 hours a 40 Euro tip or more is fine. Bellhops- 2 Euros or 1 Euro per bag,

 

 Should men bring bring a suit jacket nor a sport jacket?
Perhaps , one sport jacket. Comfortable shoes. When I go on these educational tours, the guys always wear a jacket to dinner. Bring a rain jacket, umbrella....... 

 

What's the best way to minimize jet-lag when we get to Rome?
I change my clock on the plane before I land or the night before. 7 hours in advance. Don't sleep until the evening. If you nap, it will make your body confused. Jet lag usually hits me the day after...... Not day of arrival. Drink plenty of water on plane and get up and stretch your body.

 

Do the hotels have shampoo and hair driers? 
Yes, small portions of shampoo and they do have hair dryers. I don't know about the other ones that you booked.

 

Where is the best place to exchange Dollars for Euros?  In a US bank-At an airport exchange-At an Italian bank-At the Hotel-Other?  Is it best to use a Credit Card to get Euros-Travelers Checks-Cash?

 I like to bring at least 500 Euros with me to start. I have a Debit card that withdrawals from my checking account. I exchange my money here first.  A credit card is good for purchases. Make copies of all cards and call them before you leave.