1. Tell us a little bit about your most recent Untour.
This was our third trip to Tuscany, and I think we may have got it right this time. The first time we were in awe of the area. Everywhere you looked was another postcard scene. We tried to do everything suggested in the UnTours book, and failed. So, we went back again 2 years ago to try again, and failed. Naturally we had to have a third try at it, and this time I think we succeeded…not in doing what was suggested, but by doing what we wanted, discovering new areas, relaxing in well known areas, but never pushing ourselves to exhaustion.
2. Why did you choose to go there?
It’s easy to relax in Tuscany, especially in the Pergola apartment. The hosts are wonderful, the views spectacular, the attractions easy to get to. We were both exhausted from work when we left home, and settling into our Italian “home” was very easy. We know the area now, and don’t feel we have to do anything but what we want to. The peace and tranquility of Tuscany is what calls us back.
3. What is your favorite UnTours memory?
There are many, but if I have to pick one, it would be watching the Brunello harvest 2 years ago. UnTours promotes “living like the locals,” and although we didn’t work in the vineyards, we did see how it was done, and how much work it is. Makes you appreciate the wine even more.
4. How is taking an Untour different from other ways of travelling?
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| Pergola—where they stayed |
When we first thought about going to Europe, we looked at all the options. We didn’t want to do a “tour,” and had no desire to live in a hotel having to buy meals at outrageous prices. I did some research and stumbled upon UnTours online. More research and I began to see the potential, and decided to take a chance. A comfortable, convenient apartment, a car, onsite staff if you need them, many suggestions in the guide to pique your curiosity, living like you would at home, but in a different country. What a great concept!
5. If you could describe an Untour in just three words, what would they be?
Travel, done right!
6. Have you heard of our trailblazing UnTours Foundation? What do you think of a company whose profits have gone to create jobs among vulnerable populations through loans to pioneering, green businesses?
I’m very impressed by the work done. It’s one of the reasons I decided to choose UnTours for some of our vacations.