Would appreciate some feedback on your thoughts about Perillo Tours. My husband and I will be going to Italy and were thinking about Perillo Tours only because they are so well known. Also, what are your thoughts about including dinner in the plan or not?? thanks for your thoughts in advance.

We took a Globus tour to Italy last year and it was very enjoyable. They provided about half the dinners and although they were fine for the most part, we particularly liked going out on our own for the other half. In some cases, the dinners provided were "Americanized" Italian food and not like the local cuisine at all. If you want to consider Globus instead and have other questions, feel free to e-mail me.

My husband and I took the Deluxe Italy by Rail (dinners not included) tour last October. We thought the tour was well run and enjoyed having our luggage in the room when we arrived at the hotel. This tour allows for much free time and since there are no dinners involved, you can really go on your own and explore. We were the youngest members - we celebrated our 1st anniversary while others were celebrating 20th, etc... Whichever tour company you choose, I would recommend eating on your own.

patti: <BR>the reason i was looking at the food pgk. is because everyone says how expensive food is in italy. i'd much rather go on my own; however, i dont want a hassel with food.

Don't give the food prices a second thought. Italy was VERY reasonable to eat in, everywhere except Venice. You have to be a little more careful there. But you can eat wonderful food with wine for dinner for $30 to $40 per couple in most places.

Rosemarie, <BR>We did the Italy North Classic starting in Milan last October. Dinners out were excellent. Some dinners included entertainment; musicians and singers. <BR> <BR>This is the only time we have been with a tour group. We thoroughly enjoyed it and know it was the best decision to make for our first visit to Italy. We are back to making our own arrangements for our next vacation and we are including a little time in Italy to explore Rome more. <BR> <BR>The tours without dinners did not cover the places that we wanted to see, so we didn't have a choice. When we made the booking, the itinerary was more important than the cost and restriction of being tied to a group dinner each evening. Once we got there, we realized that the experience was worthwhile. <BR>Ciao

I agree with Lori 100%. We found the food to be very reasonable (although we're used to Manhattan prices). I also agree with the warning about Venice - beware of the tourist traps (it's tough to avoid them). It's a shame because Venice is so beautiful. You'll have a great time regardless of which tour you choose. Don't be intimidated by the language barrier - a smile and the basics (please, thank you, etc.) really go a long way in Italy.

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Maryann?