Hi! My friend and I are interested in a cooking school vacation. We're mid-30s and love to cook and eat, but neither are super serious or intent upon being 'master cooks.' We want to have fun and learn something, but I'm a little concerned we'll end up either with super serious (maybe even 'haughty') cooking mavens or walking through Tuscan villages behind a task master guide waving a flag on a stick. I'm used to independent travel, so am looking for any recommendations for fun cooking schools, w/time for independent exploration and a youngish, fun clientele.

We spent a day with Good Tastes of Tuscany, and I can assure you that Lisa and Maurizio, the instructors, were a lot of fun, and Elizabeth, the host, was also fun. All three were young and attractive. My husband and I were the oldest in our group. We are early 50s.

They do a one week cooking and touring adventure that I think would be just as much fun. And the food was incredible. Really relaxed atmosphere, and Lisa has loads of fun personality.

Here's a link:

http://www.tuscany-cooking-class.com/

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34439431

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34570889

ttt

I suggest you Toscana Mia they held cooking classes in a friendly atmosphere in Florence and Chianti wine region
the website is www.welcommetuscany.com

Another thread about culinary classes in Tuscany > http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34758320