My husband and I are planning an anniversary trip to Italy in Spring 2002. We are in our early 40's (me) and early 50's (him). We like nice hotels, great food, lots of wine, local character with a medium amount of museums,churches,etc. HELP! We don't want to skimp, but don't want to get ripped off. Which tour operators would you recommend...all suggestions are appreciated. <BR>

We usually travel on our own but want to se some of Italy that we have missed and don't want to drive or the bother of trains. The best tour group I've found that meets my requirements is Tauck. They are no cheap but they seem to give you plenty of free time, excellent hotels, small groups. There are probably a lot of postings about them here. I am waiting to hear from a fellow fodorite who is on one now how she liked it.

I second the Tauck recommendation. From what you've described as your needs, Tauck would most likely meet them. My parents have been one of their Italian trips and really liked it. They take Tauck at least once a year. The hotels are at least 4 star and dinners are on paid for but on your own time.

Donna Franca Tours is also wonderful for Italy-

Barbara, <BR> <BR>As a FORMER TA, I HIGHLY recommend either Tauck or Donna Franca if you're going to do a tour. Donna Franca will also arrange an FIT (foreign independant tour) so you're not stuck traveling with a group if that interests you. For example they might arrange for you to spend 1/2 a day in the morning with a guide and then you have the afternoon free to explore on your own. <BR> <BR> <BR>Personally I also travel on my own but if that's not something you feel comfortable doing an FIT might be a better option because it has many benefits of both independant travel and tours. <BR> <BR>

Wow, I really appreciate the imput, I heard alot of good things about Tauck. Has anyone ever used Abercrombie and Kent or Travcoa??? I know that their tours are alot more expensive, but are they worth it??? If so, why or why not??? Thanks

With the kind of money you are (possibly) contemplating spending, I would think that you would want to get the group just the size and composition you want. I do not know specifics about A&K or Travcoa, but I think you can find custom tour planner/leaders that can put together exactly what you want and deliver very good "bang for the buck". <BR> <BR>It seems that you want someone else to help you plan (make the decisions you don't feel comfortable making), show you the "good stuff", lead the way for you. But how many other people do you want that person doing this for - - at the same time? And who would those people be? <BR> <BR>Seems like these are the questions for you to be asking to whomever you will be hiring. <BR> <BR>Best wishes, <BR> <BR>Rex <BR>