Italian Inspirations

Language * Culture * Cuisine

Cultural Diplomacy Tours

Dreaming of your next vacation abroad? Adventure awaits!

 Curating Cultural Diplomacy Tours

Join us for intimate explorations of artisanal delights in small towns around Italy…

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Italian Inspirations custom itineraries

  • Experts curate lodging options, book experiences, connect you to local culture
  • Insider’s perspective on Tuscan food, wine, and artisanal products
  • Tour the rolling hills of Chianti, between Florence and Siena
  • Settle into a traditional villa with scenic panoramas or enjoy a loft in the heart of town
  • Guided excursions to farms, wineries, and scenic hilltop towns
  • Meet passionate artisans bridging traditions of quality and innovation
  • Celebrate the seasons around Tuscany immersed in culture and indulging your palate

All-inclusive tour features:

  • Cultural Diplomacy travel approach – you will be inspired!
  • Ground transportation in Italy from arrival to departure
  • Daily lodging with meals & beverages
  • Guided truffle hunt or seasonal foraging for edibles
  • Cooking classes
  • Private tastings & tours
  • Exclusive excursions & dining experiences
  • Expert local guides & group interpreter

Cultural Diplomacy Tours for up to 10 travelers. Request experience booking for individuals and small groups.

Elect to adventure alone or with Italian Inspirations’ owner, seasoned interpreter, passionate gastronome and guide, Ashlee Redfern, for customized accompaniment on your next Italian journey.

To book guided tours and custom itineraries, please send an email to ashlee.redfern@gmail.com 

Tuscany Map

Sample Week’s Itinerary*

Day 1 – The Experience begins! Chianti villa arrivals, relax & bread making lesson

Day 2 – Saffron farm tour, Chianti Classico winery lunch, Olive oil tasting & dinner

Day 3 – Pasta factory tour, rustic lunch, afternoon vineyard stroll, Farmhouse dinner

Day 4 – Cooking lesson lunch, Impruneta terracotta workshop visit, Polenta party

Day 5 – San Gimignano Silver atelier tour, Vernaccia winery tasting lunch, Siena stroll

Day 6 – Goat & sheep farm visit with cheese making lunch, explore Chianti hill-top villages

Day 7 – Truffle hunt & cooking lesson, traditional Tuscan dinner, music & dancing

Day 8 – Farmhouse breakfast & departures – van to Florence airport & train station

* Specific experiences based on seasonal availability 

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SICILIAN FOOD & WINE TOUR

December 6, 2015

MAY 4, 2016 – MAY 11, 2016 * An Intentional Table Signature Tour * This extraordinary tour will explore both western and eastern Sicily to give you the richest, fullest taste of the region’s food and wine culture.  After we travel through the historic melding of cultures and architecture, you will not soon forget this hauntingly beautiful island.   A few of the … More SICILIAN FOOD & WINE TOUR

Happy New Year!! Buon Anno a tutti!

December 31, 2014

I’d like to extend heartfelt thanks to all you language students, foodie clients, Italy-bound travelers, including family & friends, who helped make 2014 another fun and rewarding year for me with Italian Inspirations! For those of you planning 2015 travel, please note that if we get 8 registrations by January 30th for the April 16-23, 2015 Culinary … More Happy New Year!! Buon Anno a tutti!