Florence & Tuscany
A Photographic & Cultural Tour

Tuscany has perhaps produced more accomplishments in art and science than any other place in history. It is the birthplace of the Etruscan civilization, the Italian language, and the age that shaped modern history, the Renaissance. Imagine a small region that could claim Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo, Dante, and Botticelli as its native sons!

Our journey will explore this glorious land in depth. Everywhere there is something of compelling beauty, curio sity, and interest - brilliant architecture, classic Tuscan landscapes, the daily life of the people themselves, providing continuity between past and present. We'll wander through medieval hill towns, feast on the famous regional foods and wines, and stay in small, family-owned hotels in the countryside and in the heart of Florence.

The focus of our trip is photography, but this is much more than a photographic tour. The trip's leisurely pace will provide ample opportunity for you to soak up the history and culture.

The Magic Light of Florence & Tuscany
The first part of our trip will center on Florence, the capital of Tuscany, the city where the Renaissance began. It is a living museum of art and culture. We will explore its streets, plazas, and great works of art and architectu re in the company of our excellent guides.

A short drive outside of Florence transports us into the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We'll stay in Chianti, among the best-preserved landscapes in Italy, some virtually unchanged since they were depicted by artists five hundred years ago. The region has large areas of woodlands, interspersed with vineyards and dotted with medieval towns high on hills and ridges. The quality of light here has inspired generations of artists.

Accommodations & Food
The accommodations we have chosen combine simple elegance and excellent location.

In Florence, we will stay at the Torre Guelfa hotel, one of the city's best kept secrets. Located just a block from the Arno River and the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge, this small, family-run hotel offers an ideal location from which to explore the city. Its guest rooms, each with a private bath, are comfortable and spacious; and the large public rooms echo the elegance of its past as a private palazzo. It also offers us a special treat, from which it takes its name. It boasts the tallest private tower (torre) in Florence, whose terrace offers stunning vistas of the city. This is a feature that we'll frequently take advantage of, especially at sunset.

In the Tuscan countryside, we'll stay at the Torre Guelfa's new sister hotel, the Villa Rosa di Boscorotundo, a meticulously restored country villa. Situated precisely halfway between Florence and Siena in the famous Chianti region, the Villa Rosa is set among rolling forested hills dotted with vineyards, olive groves, quaint villages, and stone farmhouses. It provides an absolutely perfect location for walks and day trips. Each of its ten guest rooms has a private bath. There is a dining area on the ground floor, and even a brick oven for making pizza and bread.

Meals are taken quite seriously in Italy, so when in Tuscany we do as the Tuscans. We'll learn about the local cheeses, olive oils, pasta, wines, breads, salads, and the many antipasti. In Florence, we'll show you splendid local restaurants that offer exceptional quality and value. Adding a good wine to your dinner will make your meal memorable. Coffee and gelati breaks will be welcome treats during our walks. In our country villa, traditional Tuscan dishes will be served each evening. We'll visit small towns during the day for tasty lunches and snacks. In short, the meals will be an unforgettable part of our experience.

Departures are limited to a small group. The trip is intended for people of all levels of interest and accomplishment in photography, and all types of cameras and film are acceptable. In fact, you don't have to be a photographer at all to enjoy this tour! Participants are welcome to paint or draw or simply soak up the beautiful Italian countryside and enjoy the friendly people found everywhere.

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I hope you will join me and a small group of photographers to discover the rich beauty and culture of Tuscany and Venice!

Ron Rosenstock
E-mail: RonRosenstock@charter.net
Telephone: 508 829-6052

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