Some cities you see once and cross off a list. Florence is not one of them. It's the city I keep dreaming my way back to, so before we set sail, that's exactly where I'm going... and you're welcome to come with me.
Here's my plan. I will fly out of the States on July 28th and land in Rome on the 29th, then take the train straight from the airport up to Florence... no wasted day, just Tuscany rolling by the window until the city appears. I'll be in Florence the nights of the 29th, 30th, and 31st... three unhurried days in the cradle of the Renaissance, where world-changing art hangs in quiet galleries, the food is honest and unforgettable, and the golden light spills over the Arno every evening.
On the 31st, I'm heading out into the Tuscan hills to spend the afternoon wine tasting through the Chianti region... long lunch, rolling vineyards, and views that go on forever. On August 1st, I'll take the train down to Rome and spend August 1st and 2nd in the Eternal City before we all board the Celebrity Equinox together on the 3rd.
If Florence calls to you, come along! We'll eat well, shop the boutiques most travelers walk right past, and sip Chianti like we have all the time in the world. The days are loose. Wander on your own, sleep in, get pleasantly lost... or meet me for espresso and we'll set off together, and there's a seat in the Tuscan hills for anyone who wants to join the wine day. However you want to do it is the right way to do it.
And if Florence isn't your plan, that's just as easy. Some of you may want to fly straight into Rome and give the Eternal City the time it deserves... two nights, three, four, however long you'd like. Maybe you've seen Florence and it's Rome you're after this time, or maybe you just want a slower start before the ship. Whatever shape your trip takes, I'll build it around you... the hotels, the transfers, the reservations, all of it handled.
This is simply me telling you where I'll be and when. The rest we design together. If you've ever wanted to wander Italy with good company and nothing to prove, consider this your invitation.
Cheers馃