We’ve compiled a list of common questions that you might have regarding the tour. If your question isn’t answered here, please email cherrye@my-bellavita.com. We look forward to answering your questions about the tour and hope you will join us soon!

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What type of traveler would most enjoy this tour?
The tour caters to English-speaking travelers who enjoy unique opportunities and one-of-a-kind experiences. This is not a flag-following tour, but rather an opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in authentic Italy. Most of the events in our itinerary are exclusive to our tour, meaning you won’t find them anywhere else online. In fact, many of these activities are so exclusive that we can’t even offer them to our private clients or guarantee they’ll be included in future tours.

How many people can join the tour?
While we hate to leave anyone out, this tour is limited to 8-9 people. Besides the fact that we believe the most memorable travel experiences happen in small groups, every one of our hotels, restaurants, chefs, cooks and guides is either part of a family-run business, an independent provider … or someone’s mamma, all of which cater specifically to small groups.

What is the weather like in Calabria in April and October?
Both the spring and early fall are beautiful times to visit Calabria, especially the mountain villages that are included in our itinerary. However, the weather can be unpredictable. The last couple of years we’ve have had nice, breezy nights along the lungomare as well as in the mountains. We’ll keep you updated about the weather as our trip approaches.

What’s so great about Calabrian cuisine?
Calabrian cooking is loved throughout Italy and has started gaining in popularity abroad. However, when you really examine Calabrian cuisine, you’ll see that it is as diverse as the region from which it hails. Although robust wine, homemade bread, fresh pasta, seasonal fruits and vegetables and the famous peperoncino are seen throughout the region, each area has their specialty. It is those unique ingredients and traditional dishes that we are exploring in this tour.

How do I reserve my spot?
To reserve your spot, email Cherrye at cherrye@my-bellavita.com or Tania at tania@initalytours.com. We’ll send you a registration form and a copy of our terms and conditions. Your reservation will be confirmed when we receive your deposit.

How do I make a payment?
Payments are made in US dollars to My Bella Vita Travel, LLC. Detailed information and a payment schedule will be sent with your registration form.

What should we pack for the trip?
Cherrye has written a variety of posts on packing for Calabria and southern Italy, including How to Pack a Carry-on Suitcase, Carry-on Packing List, Essential Travel Gear for Your Trip to Southern Italy, Five Things to Pack for Your Trip to Italy and Five Things to Skip When Packing for Italy. Additionally, a Calabrian Table Tour Packing List will be sent to you in your final packet.

What happens if I can’t make the group transfer to the Pollino?
We hope everyone can make it to the airport in time for the group transfer to the Pollino Mountains. However, if you can’t, we will help you arrange a private transfer to the hotel. Additional fees may apply.

What if I want to extend my vacation?
If you want to extend your vacation in Calabria or southern Italy, then you are in luck. Cherrye designs custom itineraries and vacations for private clients and is happy to assist you in adding days either before or after the tour. If you’d like to extend your vacation by visiting other parts of Italy, she will recommend another travel consultant who can help. Additional fees may apply.

I’d love to do the tour, but I’m unavailable for your published dates. Do you anticipate adding new dates this year?
We are open to adding new dates or even helping couples and individuals who contact us find a mutually-agreed upon date that works for everyone. If you have a group of six or more, we can do the Calabrian Table Tour as a private tour – exclusive for your group. Contact us for details and availability.

Return to FAQ homepage – or – Email Cherrye to request your sign-up form.