This Esperienza trip through the non-touristy Emilia Romagna region of eastern Italy was outstanding! Based from one charming hotel, the Villa Monte Banks in Cesena, we explored marvelous towns and cuisines, with Michelin-rated restaurant and private home chefs. Plus a hands-on pasta class. From a unique textile shop to an Adriatic fishing town, our impeccable guide Susy Patrito shared her love of this land.

OMG, where do I begin? First and foremost, an amazing tour! Susy our tour guide “extraordinaire” was the best, she took care of everything anyone needed help with, even things we didn’t know we needed. Lol Her historical knowledge and insight was so fun and informative. The villages/towns we visited were so quaint and filled with history, and of course the beautiful countryside. It was wonderful to meet some of the local Michelin star chefs and enjoy the delicious food. It was also a pleasure to be welcomed into the homes of some local residents, very special visits. As part of a small group tour and solo traveler, I had the pleasure of meeting an amazing group of people! Thank you to Esperienza and especially Susy for a memorable tour!😍

I took my daughter and 2 daughter-in-laws on the Food, Wine and Friends tour. The trip is perfectly named. The food was always delicious, the wines flowed freely and we made some wonderful new friends. Our guide, Suzy, was very accommodating of the varying degrees of mobility in the group, always smiling, knowledgeable, kind and funny. She seemed to know what we needed before we even asked. Everyone adored her. Being invited for dinner in Stefano and Cinzia’s home; enjoying a concert by Stefano and young Adele; partaking in a delicious lunch prepared by Mara made us all feel like guests in Italy rather than tourists. I can’t recommend Esperienza enough. It was an experience the four will never forget. Molte grazie.

We had an amazing time on this trip. The attention to detail-locations, logistics, activities and experiences were just about perfect…not to mention the food and wine!! Susy was an amazing guide, she is an absolute superstar. We would travel anywhere if she were going to be leading us. Plus all the guests got along really well, had a lot in common and enjoyed each other’s company as well. This was our first Esperienza experience but it will not be our last. Anna you should be very proud of what you have created. Congratulations!

Traveling to Emilia Romagna was a great experience. The small group of seven lead by a great guide who not only knew the intricate details of the region's culture, food and people, but also showed a pace that made people appreciate the region even more. The accommodations were first rate, the food fantasti and the historical aspects shown in a meaningful way. My wife and I had one of the greatest experiences of our lives. Anyone looking to understand the complete Italian culture of this region that is the food capital for a country that is deep in tradition and history should register to go with Esperienza. Bravo!