Hello All,
Let me first to share that I am not a person who does any social media or quite frankly posts any comments pro or con regarding products or even experiences. However, I will break this personal choice with a posting of my most memorable and life altering experience I had in my life.
Despite the slight unplanned hiccups of travel after the airline lost my family's luggage for three days, my wife and 2 daughters remained steadfast and optimistic. I was anticipating anger and a bit of sarcasm but to my surprise there was very little of that. I contribute this change of mindset, in part, to the spectacular sites of Italy and beautiful launching off point of Rome. My family was pleasantly distracted by scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, enjoying good foods but probably most importantly bonding with the group of the tour.
Stephanie our tour specialist was intelligent, calm, respectful and overall knowledge base of each city we spent time in was incredible. Her warmth, good natured spirit made it a pleasure to hop on board the bus or when the tour had group excursions together and/or participated in shared meals. I can't over state how pleased I was with her professionalism and kindness.
The the overall trip was terrific a 10+++. A bit of advice to anyone considering a trip to Europe using Rick Steve's tours. Please listen to their advice. We definitely over packed and found it was truly unnecessary. My two teenage daughters even admitted to me "Dad I think we packed too much but the next time we go, we are going to simplify our wardrobe"
I loved each city differently, loved sampling different foods, enjoyed people watching and just getting to know individuals in our group as well as the locals.
Thank you Stephanie, Jost (our bus conductor) and the whole Rick Steve's operations in helping create long lasting memories that I will retrieve in my mind and captured with my iphone.
Respectfully,
Anthony Longoria