Adventures in Orvieto, Italy trips

The Companion Trip

The opportunity to learn extends well beyond the instructor guided parts of our trips. In fact, much of the learning takes place outside the studio. The companion trip affords you the chance to take part in the cultural activities of your friend/spouse, take part if you choose in other activities just for you, or explore on your own. It is a great way to share a trip to Italy with someone you love, while each of you explores your own areas of interest.

Orvieto is a wonderful city to explore. It is rich in Etruscan, medieval and Renaissance history and architecture. It is home to the exquisite foods, sounds and smells of Italy - a sensory fiesta. Because one of the great joys of travel - particularly in a new place full of the unexpected - is to explore, we help you enjoy your favorite interests. You are, of course, free to join in your companion as he or she sets off through the city on assignments - or venture off on your own. If you you would like to get farther afield, rent a car, or board a train, Orvieto is within easy reach of Rome, Tuscany, and other towns in Umbria, and we'll help you get to them.

San Lodovico, the convent B&B in which we stay, is a spacious and relaxed place perched on the edge of the rock. If you would like to relax, step back and slow down, you can enjoy its garden, sit in the courtyard or loggia, look out over the valley below, or simply use it as a base for your comings and goings.

We provide a reading list prior to the trip to help you develop greater understanding and appreciation of what you can see in Orvieto. You will receive a city map locating sites of interest, and we take you on an orientation walking tour on your first full day in town. We also offer the chance to see and experience more deeply through activities developed just for the companion. The week is a superb opportunity to get to know an Italian town and its people intimately. Get to know the place, its heart, its soul, and the hands that made it! We will help you every step of the way.

Typical Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Orvieto, group dinner
Day 2 - Orientation walking tour, introduction to Italian culture,
              wine tasting,
Day 3 - Understanding the café, coffee, cheese and meats, cave tour
Day 4 - Discovering the nuance behind our love of Italian cities,
              cooking class
Day 5 - Exploring the weekly market, vineyard tour/wine tasting
Day 6 - Uncovering simple secrets of Italian city form, or pursue your
              own favorite interests
Day 7 - Depart Orvieto

Details
Cost - $1650 in 2008, $1750 in 2009. Fee includes six nights double occupancy lodging and basic course materials. Single occupancy available for an additional cost. Because the tour is meant to expose you to the local culture, meals are not prearranged or included. Travel costs are not included.
2008 Companion registration form and terms
2009 Companion registration form and terms - Spring
2009 Companion registration form and terms - Fall

Questions? Contact us using the contact information below.