if anyone has been to the algarve recently, I would like their thoughts on it and recommendatiuons as to places to stay and things to do. Also, where is the best area to stay in Tuscany that makes the points of interest most accessible?

Haven't been yet but am going in July. Staying at
the Hotel Alvor Praia in the Praia de Rocha area
of the Algarve. Not sure when your trip is but would be happy to share thoughts after mine is
complete.

Richard, I know both areas well, and have stayed
at each on multiple occasions. The Algarve answer
is to stay at either Lagos or Praia de Rocha. There
are many options---budget will dictate--but the
Bellavista is my pick. Now, Tuscany, that is not
an easy answer. Tuscany is big and it takes 2 or
3 locations to see it all. The best compromise is
near Siena, but that still means an hour or more to
some of the best locations. If you want some more
specific input, then holler to me directly.

My husband & I are going to Italy in two weeks. Are there any wineries around Siena?

The Italian national wine tasting shop, the Enoteca Nationale, is in Siena. See any good guidebook for directions. Start your wine adventure there.