There are always unknowns with any trip.  Visiting a new place, even as part of a group, might make you anxious.  The more information you have, the more comfortable you feel.  So, with that in mind, here are the answers to five of the  most frequently asked questions regarding a trip with Adventures in Italy.

How large are your groups?

Groups range in size from 6-12 artists.  Sometimes spouses, friends, or family join us, so we’ve had as many as 18 for group meals and activities.  A smaller number of artists ensures personalized attention from the teacher.

I am nervous about traveling on my own.  Are there other solo travellers?

All groups have a mixture of solo travellers and those traveling with a friend or family member.  We start the week off with a couple of group meals to get everyone familiar with the town and each other.  There are several meals that are not prearranged so you can choose where and what to eat. Recommendations are offered and no one eats alone!

How physical are your trips?

Orvieto is a medieval hilltop town with cobblestone streets and very few cars.  We walk everywhere, leaving “The Rock” only twice – for our cooking class and our vineyard visit.  Like most of Europe, elevators are rare.  All of that to say a moderate level of fitness is encouraged.  Only our breakfast and our classroom are on-site, everything else is a walk away.  Because we walk everywhere, you quickly learn how to navigate the town and integrate into the fabric of Orvieto, saying hello to the merchants and discovering your favorite cafe.

What are the rooms like? Will I have my own bathroom?

Yes!  Each room has it’s own ensuite.  We stay in a former convent, and a former palace.  The common spaces can be quite grand, but the rooms are humble.  You will find everything you need.

I don’t speak Italian, do people there speak English?

You will hear a lot of English spoken in Orvieto.  Guests always seem to make it work. It’s always nice to have a few simple words at the ready – hello, please, thank you – buongiorno, per favore, grazie.  And just a little side note, it is customary (and kind!) to greet the shopkeeper whenever you enter a store.

The answers to more frequently asked questions and a gallery of photos of the accommodation and other hot spots can be found on the website.

To learn more about Adventures in Italy read these other posts:

Spring Recap

Look Less Like a Tourist

Orvieto Scavenger Hunt

Michelle Logue leads cultural and creative adventures in Orvieto, Italy. With a mandate to provide "travel that transforms," Adventures in Italy gives guests an immersive experience. After more than 20 years of return trips, Orvieto has become a welcoming home base surpassing the typical Italian vacation. Adventures in Italy operates trips in May and September. Find out more about tours and special offers by following Adventures in Italy on Facebook and Instagram and visit www.adventuresinitaly.ca Slow Travel Tours is an affiliation of small-group tour operators who offer personalized trips in Italy, France and other European countries.