Testimonials
Mary Reynolds
Harwich, MA
A million thanks for taking us on our Italy Adventure. It was more than I ever expected- and in so many ways! I’ll never go into an Italian restaurant in the U.S. without comparing it to our meals in Italy, in terms of ambiance and, of course, the food. I’ve learned so much about the history of Italy. Our train is pulling into Rome right now, but I will always treasure the experience and new friends that I’ve made. Grazie!
Mary Flood
Syracuse, NY
Thank for unlocking the Italian part of this Irish woman’s heart! The trip was more than I expected in every sense: smells, tastes, sounds, touch…even when I touched a statue by Michelangelo in a church…ooops! Sorry!!! Your expertise showed throughout our journey – The best food, no lines for major attractions, the drivers, the family meal at Roberto’s house – all of it Amazing!
Bill and Marianne Smith
Syracuse, NY
Our trip was such a unique experience. It will be hard for any other trip we take to measure up. We are definately looking forward to a “family reuinion.” Thank you for showing us “Bella Italia.” Grazie!
Andy Campbell
Worcester, MA
My first time in Europe I had the good fortune of having Paolo as my tour guide. I could go on about the ridiculous amount of information he has about just about anything we walked by, how he took care of every last detail from meals, trains, minibus rentals, boat trips to Capri – all the way to a private tour of a pagan cemetery under the Vatican (claustrophobic but incredible). That being said, one of the best things was how over the course of ten days Paul became a part of the family. I don’t know what we would have done without him. We would have overlooked so much and missed even more. If you decide to go, take at least 3 days in Positano, you’ll thank me.
Soma Pathak, MD
Manhattan, NY
My friends and I spent a great two weeks on a tour with Paul Carman. Paul planned our itinerary which included Venice, Florence, San Gimignano, Siena, Positano, Pompeii, Rome, and Sicily. He arranged for our transfers, accommodations, museum tickets and took us to the most amazing restaurants and best nightlife. Paul’s knowledge of the history, culture, architecture, and of course food made it an amazing experience, which can not be duplicated with out Paolo. He knows the history and significance behind each of the famous frescos and statues, which we would have otherwise just walked by. Thank you Paolo for the incredible journey.
Abilash Padi, MD
Albany, NY
As a young busy professional, I always try to maximize the quality of time that I have for trips. On a recent tour of Italy in one of Paul’s groups I had a great vacation, but also a great experience! Having never been to Italy before, Paul was a great resource for where to stay, what to see, and, more importantly, where to eat! The private boat to the island of Capri where we had the freedom to explore the entire Amalfi coast was a particular highlight. Paul’s easy-going persona was perfect for exploring Italy on your own while getting as much or as little guidance as you wanted. Do yourself a favor and just go – then you’ll know. I’m counting the days til my next trip already!
Toni Eng, MD
Montreal, CANADA
My friends and I are young professionals, living in different parts of the country, who decided we needed to “get away from it all” and rendez-vous in Italy for vacation! Paul put together an itinerary that completely fit the bill. His knowledge of Italy is outstanding. I found that he has a unique “range” as a travel professional. He is capable of understanding and providing for the potential interests of a broad demographic, from older to younger, from religious tourism to general holiday, and from bicycle tourism to gastronomic highlights. He was trained in seminary in Italy and lived there for a number of years. As a result, he has not only extensive knowledge about the area, but he is well-versed in Italy’s heritage– cultural, political, historical and, of course, religious. He also has extensive social connections that were helpful in terms of getting favorable rates on accomodations and excursions. At the same time, he is a relatively young professional himself and lots of fun! I noticed during our trip that other guides could appear kind of staid, and not necessarily someone I could relate to; Paul was very much the opposite. His recommendations for food and wine were spot-on as well. On top of it all, he was very organized. He made it so that we truly had no worries about the logistics. As a result, my friends and I made the most out of our time together. I would recommend Paul’s travel services to anyone in a heartbeat.
Dennis and Ruth Musuneggi
Endicott, NY
Our thanks to you for a trip of a lifetime! You are an amazing person – you have led us to the roots of our heritage in a gentle way, just letting us absorb the magnificent sights. Thank you for doing everything for us, no hassle of trying to do it on our own – as we said you’re like, “take the bus and leave the driving to us!”
Mary McGrath
Marcellus, NY
We accomplished so much on our trip to Italy with you. The excavations under St. Peter’s Basilica were a privilege. Visiting the places connected with St. Francis in Assisi meant so much. Positano was an unbelievable place and gem for “R and R.” And how can I not mention the food – fantastico! Thank you for the privilege of traveling with you and learning from your vast knowledge.
Ken Anderson
Sacramento, CA
Paolo has made our experience in Italy the trip of a lifetime. His choices for dining and lodging have far exceeded our expectations and his friendly nature and easy going attitude have his feeling like one of the family. The thorough planning and choices of sights have made this the most stress free vacation with my family that I have ever had. Throw away the guide books and avoid the tourist traps and enjoy. We could not have done this without you. Thanks!
Kelsey Dillard, 21
Sacramento, CA
Our trip to Italy has been mind blowing each day. I love the art, architecture, sculpture and frescos. I have studied art in college but this trip has taught me more than I could ever learn in a classroom. How lucky I am to have had this opportunity! I didn’t know anything about Paul before our departure for Italy. His knowledge of history is so amazing, and his own down to earth personality made for an extremely comfortable situation. I think I can speak for everyone in our group when I say that we are truly thankful for him, and have made a real friend along the way!
Skip and Jackie Ford
Binghamton, NY
The last two weeks have flown by and we are taking memories of a lifetime with us – thanks to you! Everything went so smoothly and was so coordinated that it was easy to make meaningful connections on so many levels. It’s difficult to pick out favorites among the many places we visited, but Assisi and Positano stand out. The medieval festival with its fireworks and the full moon shining on the Mediterranean Sea were just part of the total spirit of our Italian adventure and we have you to thank for it all. Many thanks for such wonderful memories.
George and Pat Bohnenberger
Tampa, FL
This was far more than a “trip” to Italy for us. Rather, it was a journey of faith and of new found friends. The memories have been overwhelmingly impressive yet have remained intimately personal. Your concise insights put everything into perspective in spite of the span of the centuries! Who could ever forget the sunset over Florence, the landscape and vistas of Siena and San Gimignano, the medieval celebration and fireworks in Assisi, and standing in the center of St. Peter’s Square in Rome in total awe? Thank you so much for all of your efforts, for your thoughtfulness, and for your love for Italy and your fellow travelers. We hope we will again be blessed to join you on a future journey.
Mary Ann and Bill Stanczak
Philadelphia, PA
Thank you for the journey of a lifetime. The moment that we met you at the airport we felt very comfortable and assured of a good trip. Our small group soon became a family, and the nightly sharing sessions gave us insight into ourselves and each other. The itinerary was well planned, yet flexible enough to meet the needs of the entire group. We traveled through the centuries and your knowledge of art and history enriched our lives as we experienced Italy together. It seemed that every time we turned a corner we found a new and exciting surprise. From the splendor of the churches of Rome, to the fine wines and shops of Florence, to the breathtaking views of Assisi, and the delicious food throughout, we had a wonderful journey together and memories that will last forever.
