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Ciao Bruce!
What an amazing month we've had at Allora'Scapes, exploring the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Italy!
A Colorful Italian Adventure
Two weeks of fun! We kicked off our adventure with a spectacular week on the Amalfi Coast, followed by another week filled with charm in Puglia and Rome. Each trip was an intimate experience, with just 12 travelers on the Amalfi Coast and 6 in Puglia and Rome, allowing for a personalized touch, deep connections, and new friendships.
Amalfi Coast Highlights
Nestled in a delightful fishing village, our charming villa was the perfect home base for exploring the coastline. Here’s what we savored:
- Culinary Delights: We indulged in fresh seafood and homemade pasta, guided by our private chefs.
- Hands-On Cooking Class: Participants rolled up their sleeves to learn traditional Italian cooking techniques.
- Private Boat Tours: We cruised along the breathtaking coastline, soaking in the sun and stunning views.
- Lemon Farm Tour: A visit to a local lemon farm was a zesty highlight, where we learned about the famous Amalfi lemons.
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Top Left Corner- Pompei, Top Right Corner- Cooking Class in Lecce (homemade Orrichiette, Bottom Left Corner- Matera, Bottom Middle- Capri, Bottom Right Corner- Sea View Lunch
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Puglia Adventure Highlights:
Our adventure began with outstanding, intimate accommodations in a renovated Trullo house in the outskirts of Ostuni. From there we traveled to several other, amazing Puglia towns:
- Alberobello: We Marvel at the iconic Trulli, cone-shaped houses that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Matera: Explore the ancient cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique architecture and history.
- Lecce: We discovered the Baroque beauty of Lecce, often referred to as the "Florence of the South." We also indulged in a wonderful pasta-making class, making Orecchiette and bringing out the Stanley Tucci in us all.
- Polignano a Mare and Monopoli: We embarked on a fantastic Catamaran Tour,sailing along the stunning coastline and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Rome Highlights:
Our Italian journey concluded in the heart of Rome. Our centrally located hotel made it easy to explore:
- Private Tours: We were enthralled with the grandeur of the Colosseum and the Vatican, guided by expert local historians.
- Food Walking Tour: A delightful stroll through Trastevere introduced us to Rome's vibrant culinary scene.
The Amalfi Coast continues to be one of our staple escapes and this time around the weather was perfect for taking in all that it has to offer. From there, Puglia's rich history, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery reinforced why it is a must-visit destination. And capping off the trip was the Eternal City of Rome, a spectacle in history, architecture and gastronomy.
This month has been nothing short of magical, filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable experiences. We can't wait to share more adventures with you! 🌟✨
A presto, the Allora'Scapes Team
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| Allora! a 5⭐️ Travel Review
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With Anca having just returned on the heels of another incredible few weeks in Italy, we wanted to share one of our customers adventures' there too!
Amy and Chris Glancey wanted to celebrate Amy's son Kyle's recent admission into Culinary school, so what better way than a foodie centric excursion throughout Italy!
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From top left to bottom right: Kyle learning to make pasta from a local Italian chef in Parma, Chris and Kyle enjoying the fruits of their labor, being serenaded on a gondola in Venice, “hidden” gem in Sienna, perfectly made Cacio de Pepe - al Fresca.
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In Amy's own words, a humbling account of their experience:
A Culinary Journey Through Italy: A Review of Our Unforgettable Trip Planned by Bruce Marcolongo of Allora'Scapes
When I decided to gift my son a trip to Italy, I knew it had to include the best culinary experiences the country had to offer. Enter Bruce Marcolongo from Allora Scapes, a true maestro of Italian travel planning. His expertise and passion for Italy's culinary treasures made our journey unforgettable, turning it into a symphony of flavors and memories.
The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the food tours. Each region we visited offered a unique taste of Italy, allowing us to savor the rich culinary heritage of the country. From the hearty, rustic dishes of Tuscany to the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Emilia-Romagna region, every meal was a revelation. Bruce's selections showcased why Italy is renowned as one of the top food destinations in the world. These experiences were not only delicious but also deeply informative, giving us a greater appreciation for Italian culture and cuisine.
But Bruce's magic didn't stop at the food. He meticulously selected the most perfect hotel rooms that offered comfortable stays in prime locations—eliminating the need for countless extra steps or Ubers in each city. Each accommodation was a gem, providing us with both luxury and convenience. Moreover, Bruce arranged for tour guides who enriched our journey with fascinating stories about the cities we visited. These guides managed to captivate both a teen and parents, keeping us fully engaged throughout. Their anecdotes and insights brought history to life, adding layers of depth to our experience.
Bruce's planning made our vacation effortless and stress-free. We could fully immerse ourselves in creating lasting memories without worrying about logistics. The app provided by Bruce worked seamlessly throughout the trip, ensuring that everything went off without a hitch. It was user-friendly and kept us organized, allowing us to focus on enjoying our adventure.
In summary, our Italian adventure was nothing short of spectacular, thanks to Bruce's impeccable planning and attention to detail. This trip was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we couldn't have asked for a better travel concierge. If you’re dreaming of a culinary journey through Italy, look no further than Bruce Marcolongo of Allora Scapes.
Buon viaggio!
Amy & Chris Glancey
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ULTRA Luxury Travel Highlight!
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Luxury Travel on the High Seas!
Ilma, the latest crown jewel of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, has embarked on a voyage of discovery through the Mediterranean. This floating haven offers unparalleled luxury with its six bars, five exquisite restaurants, and 228 lavishly appointed suites, providing the most spacious accommodations at sea.
Named after the Maltese word for "water," Ilma pays homage to the ocean's boundless beauty. Its spacious suites with private terraces, open-air lounges, and aft Marina invite guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking seascapes and coastal havens. Experience the epitome of yachting as you relax in an atmosphere of casual elegance, savor a variety of culinary delights, and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa.
The Mediterranean, a cultural and historical treasure trove, boasts turquoise waters and countless ports and cities. Discover hidden harbors, step ashore to explore the footsteps of legendary explorers, and immerse yourself in the romantic beauty of historic villages, all from the comfort of your luxurious yacht.
Below are just a few of our the well appointed routes and destinations:
- Greece - Malta
- Roundtrip Greece
- Athens - Rome
- Nice - Barcelona
- Barcelona - Lisbon
- Roundtrip Italy
Allora'Scapes is proud to be able to offer this incredible luxurious experience!
Contact us for more details today and see where we can take you!
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Passport Renewal Made Easy: Online Renewal Now Available
We have some exciting news for those of you looking to renew your passports! The State Department has officially launched its new online passport renewal service. This means you can now complete the entire renewal process from the comfort of your home.
How Does It Work?
Simply apply, pay the renewal fee, and upload a photo online. It’s a quick and easy process that can save you time and hassle. This service is available to U.S. citizens with a domestic address who are renewing a 10-year adult passport that has expired within the last five years or will expire in the coming year.
Processing Times
While the online renewal process is convenient, it's important to note that the processing time for a renewed passport remains six to eight weeks. For those who need a passport urgently, expedited processing is still not available online.
A Game-Changer for Travelers
The State Department estimates that up to 5 million Americans per year will benefit from this new online service. It’s a significant step forward in making passport renewals more accessible and efficient.
Have questions? Feel free to reach out to Allora'Scapes for personalized assistance. We’re here to help you navigate the passport renewal process and ensure you have everything you need for your next adventures!
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Contact Anca or Bruce to help plan your next adventure!
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Happy Travels!
Anca and Bruce
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