Where to Go by Season Travel Guide

Our trip with Zicasso's tour company was beyond exceptional. The itinerary was exactly what we asked for and the activities included were perfect for our group. We gave the tour company the information on the type of trip we would like and everything was top-notch. The hotels were incredible and our driver was absolutely the best. He was extremely flexible, always on time, and his vehicle was impeccable.

We received communication throughout the planning process and whenever we asked a question, the response was very timely. After the initial planning phase, we received updates and information from our travel designer, who was wonderful. The company's attention to detail allowed us to relax and enjoy our vacation. We had no issues whatsoever at any time during the trip with reservations, tickets, and vouchers. He even noticed that one voucher for a particular day had the wrong guest's birth date and he contacted me, as well as the hotel, so they could print the correct voucher.

The question is not if we will plan another trip with them, it is when. Don't hesitate to book a trip. As we say in the south, this tour company is a well-oiled machine.

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Our trip was absolutely amazing and the planning done by Zicasso's travel company surpassed my expectations. The attention to detail was amazing: from excellent and punctual drivers to assistants who helped us with the water taxis in Venice to the lounge access for trains. It was truly white-glove service that made my trip seamless and allowed me to enjoy every moment because every detail was handled.

The excursions were fantastic. I especially enjoyed the cooking class at a farm in Tuscany and the Vespa tours in Rome. There was a nice mix of private excursions for the walking tours and boat rides, to a few shared excursions, such as the cooking class.

The hotels the travel company booked were chic, boutiquey Italian hotels and each had its own charm (from the former palace in Venice to the castle in Chianti), and we loved them. We would absolutely recommend to anyone booking a trip to Italy!

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I can confidently say that Zicasso's travel specialist is truly dedicated to providing her clients a luxury experience. From the outset, we had a 20-minute call where she wanted to learn about our dream vacation and get to know us. She was attentive to every request we made and organized our itinerary accordingly. During the trip, she texted us daily to inform us about our drivers and guides for the next day. Additionally, she checked to ensure our trip was progressing smoothly.

Here are some highlights:

Rome: We were greeted at the airport by our agent, who expedited our passage through passport control. The following day, we started our exploration at the Vatican. Our agent had purchased our tickets in advance, allowing us to skip the line. She also planned the remainder of our self-guided tours of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and other ancient sights. We accomplished so much in just two days!

Florence: We took part in a pasta-making class with a chef who was fantastic! Her husband was also quite charming. Our experience there was truly wonderful. Special thanks to our driver, who was incredibly helpful and informative.

Sorrento (Amalfi Coast): We began with a visit to Pompeii, where our guide, also arranged by our agent, was spectacular! His passion and extensive knowledge made the experience enjoyable. Next, we had a fun blind wine tasting. When we arrived at our amazing hotel, we were greeted with a surprise.

While in Rome, we encountered a minor issue, which our agent resolved quickly. She even went above and beyond by ordering us a bottle of prosecco to celebrate. We also took a car tour of Positano and Ravello, guided by a local from Ravello who was informative, knowledgeable, and delightful. We loved her! Our day ended with a lovely sunset cruise off the coast! Both days had excellent drivers.

This trip was a dream come true for my husband and me. Without a doubt, our agent made it the luxurious experience we desired. I highly recommend her and her team!

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We just finished 10 outstanding days in Ireland on a trip that was completely organized and facilitated by Zicasso's travel company. We built the trip around a one-day visit to the Open and, with a lot of advice from our travel company, we visited Dublin, Belfast, and Galway. From each of the cities, we had day trips that were led by a private guide from the company.

Our guide made this trip outstanding. He drove us for seven of the 10 days to the many sites we visited. He was so much more than a good driver. His knowledge of everything we did was extensive and really helped prepare us for what we visited. Additionally, we added and deleted on his recommendation, and all of those moves made the trip better. Some of the deleting, in particular, was because of the weather, and he adjusted to something that made the trip even better. He had a real gift for recognizing immediately our likes and preferences, and adjusted accordingly. Our favorite phrase, which we seemed to say on a daily basis, was, “You did it again," which was in reference to daily tips and/or stops that we made, all of which enhanced our visit to Ireland. He was very professional, punctual, and personable for the entire seven days. He was, without question, the best driver/guide we have encountered in our many trips to Europe. On a personal level, we had great conversations right from the beginning and he seemed more like a good friend than just a driver. I give him my highest recommendation.

As for the travel company, they created a comprehensive plan that addressed the many wonderful sites for us to see in that section of Ireland. Very little of their initial proposal was changed. They were always available when we had questions or concerns before and during the trip. This is a first-class and professional travel agency. I would recommend anyone traveling to Ireland contact this company.

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I was very pleased with our trip, the accommodations, and the personal touch. Zicasso's travel specialist was excellent and even when we had some hiccups during the trip, he was there to make an adjustment. I was very pleased. Some really nit-picky tips for future travelers from out of town.

The Shinkansen is a fun ride and everyone should do it. However, when you need multiple tickets at a time, remind the passenger that you put all the tickets into the ticket turnstile at one time, not individually.

We had to visit in July, but I think the best time to visit Japan would be in the three other seasons because of the heat and humidity (with the exception of Hokkaido).

There are still some places that need cash, like public baths etc. I would carry a little on you. Also, visiting the public baths was one of the truly authentic Japanese experiences we had. If a traveler is into the authentic experience, don't underestimate that experience.

You can get "shrined out." They are great and we appreciated every one. We even caught a monk actively praying at a fairly remote one, which was tremendous. I'm not sure if it's possible to know approximate times, but seeing this happen as a traveler was immensely gratifying. It was 6.30am on a Saturday. So if there is a way to figure out an approximate schedule, you will have elevated your travel game above all the rest. It would be a differentiator for you.

Letting travelers know about the bento boxes and grab-and-go foods is a plus. I was so impressed by them and that info should be shared with every traveler, especially the kiddos.

The Japanese do some things really well and a side list of them might be helpful for tours. For example, we stopped for some anime magazines, kitchen knives, street food, and a baseball game, baths, and hot springs. I'd lean into this and provide some lists for people to pick from, especially the kitchen knives.

Explain the concept of luggage forwarding and the approximate costs. It's a uniquely Japanese thing, and it's awesome and affordable, but needs some getting used to.

Google Translate and the app to read the signs (I forgot its name) is a must. Share the links early and often.

I have so many more ideas, but we will start there. I hope it helps.

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We had a wonderful experience with our Zicasso travel specialist while planning our vacation in Greece. We had a group that consisted of two families; in total, eight people. Our travel specialist gave us recommendations based on the types of activities we wanted to do and the types of islands we were hoping to experience.

We stayed two nights in Athens, three nights on Naxos, and three nights in Santorini. The accommodations were fantastic! Every tour guide and driver was helpful and so kind.

When we wanted to add a stop in Naxos for an impromptu lunch, our guide was happy to detour and bring us to a place with the best gyros that the locals really enjoy! Everyone made us feel at home. Thank you for a beautiful trip and all the lovely memories!

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