The Tuscany photo tour filled two of my most recent travel desires. First, to visit rural Tuscany in a non-intrusive intimate way and two, to linger as long as I desired taking photos. My criteria were simple: no big bus, no 5 hotels in 7 day, no beaten path. Improving my photo skills would be a nice bonus. My hopes were more than fulfilled. Traveling with a small band of lively spirits with Drake and Randy as our drivers and guides was like being with family. We stayed in Siena and moved only once, to the farm at Pieve where we were greeted like old friends. And the grand dinner at Lucca’s new restaurant was the experience that will never be matched. As for accommodations, the breathtaking scenery was not just outside our door, but literally outside our windows. Our itinerary took us within a radius of just 30 km from our base yet seemed like more. By covering less ground, and through photography, you can connect with place in a much more personal and creative way. Even though I am not an accomplished photographer, the Tuscan landscape together with Drake and Randy’s guidance made me feel like one.
Just as gifted coaches make their sport look easy, Drake and Randy make photography and travel seem effortless. And the group, oh my. The shared laughs, the meals together, the food, the wine and Tuscany — I’ve found my favorite way to travel.
