Are there any recommendations for a travel agent or company who specializes in Italy. Family of 7 looking to go in May. Looking for someone who can customize a trip and make the arrangements for us.
Posted by
Los Angeles
1202 posts
This may not be the best venue for asking your question, as the emphasis here is on self- directed travel. Note the responses to a similar question asked here a few months ago - the majority of responses were to do it yourself:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy/travel-agent-or-plan-myself
Try starting with a generic Google search such as this one and see where it leads you:
Travel agent specializing in italy near me
It will require effort on your part to go through and evaluate the responses. You may have to interview several, assuming you can find any, to find one that you feel comfortable with.
Posted by
1607 posts
A friend of mine uses Zicasso, https://www.zicasso.com/, they're sort of a travel agent broker. You tell them what you are interested in. They provided you with 2-3 agencies. Then you talk to each agency and see whether you like any of them.
The great irony of using a travel agency is that the more you know, the better your experience will be. If you only give the agency broad general guidelines, you will get a broad general trip. If you can be particular about what you want/like/are interested in, you'll get a better trip.
Posted by
Los Angeles
4871 posts
As I usually mention, Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler magazines have lists of agents on their websites.
Most Auto Club locations used to do this as well.
If you have a higher level credit card, it will often offer travel services as well such as Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11798 posts
I am a DIY traveler but have long admired what Madeline can do https://italybeyondtheobvious.com/.