Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I travel with Time of Your Life Tours?

Unlike many other tours, we go through "the front door," staying in truly special and uniquely European hotels.  We choose excellent restaurants (that few tourists would find) where you'll enjoy the finest typical regional dishes.  And, you are not limited to a set tourist menu, but are free to order as you wish off the menu.  We travel at a leisurely pace so that you will really get a feel for the cities we visit.  We provide informative evening lectures, so you'll have a sense of what's important and what's interesting about the fabulous works of art you'll see.

We have spent years researching every last detail, so you can relax and enjoy yourself without hassles or worries.  Most importantly, as the owners of this company, we are committed to doing all we can to make your trip the time of your life.

Plus, you'll have a knowledgeable guide in Paula Russell to provide you with expert commentary. Paula has studied all aspects of Italian art, culture and history for over 20 years and delights in bringing Italy to life for our clients. She can also help you tailor your free time to your specific interests.

Can you help me purchase airline tickets?

We can recommend an excellent travel agent who can assist you in finding the best flights for your needs.  (Please note: we do not receive any commission or any other sort of consideration from the agent.) 

How much walking is there?

You can expect to walk approximately three miles and to be on your feet most of the day visiting museums, exploring the cities, shopping, etc. Of course, there will be breaks and times to relax as we go.

Can my husband come?

Our tours are girlfriends' tours and open only to women. However, we will create and lead a special tour for any group of 8-12 people that want an exclusive tour. If you wish to travel with your husband and can put together a group this is an excellent option.

Is there an age limit?

While most of the women on our tours are in their 40's and 50's, we welcome women of all ages as long as they are in good health and can keep up with the physical demands of the tour. Our tours are not suitable for children.

Why aren't most lunches included?

While the tour includes a breakfast every day and dinner most nights, lunches are only included on our day trips to the Tuscan hills and to Fiesole. We do this to give you the most flexibility possible: you might want to spend more (or less) time in a museum or other place we visit; you may not be hungry at "lunchtime" and may prefer a light snack or gelato later in the afternoon: you may want to grab a panini or a salad, or you may prefer to order a full three course meal. The choice is yours.

You can expect to pay about $8.00 for a panini and beverage and about $20.00 for a substantial meal.

What kind of shopping can I expect?

Shopping in Italy is fantastic.  You will find gorgeous leather goods, silk ties and scarves, jewelry, hand-made paper goods, colorful pottery, perfumes and soaps, olive oil, pastas, and more. You can also find great affordable small gifts and many unique finds.

We have compiled lists of the best shops for all sorts of items-- where you'll find quality goods, great selection and fair prices.  We also know how to shop the lively outdoor markets.  (Please note: all our recommendations are based on our first-hand knowledge and we NEVER take any sort of commission.)

What can I do with my free time on the tour? 

We have a notebook with information on just about everything there is to see and do in each city, and can assist you in making the perfect plan (and any necessary reservations).  We are also happy to take those who don't want to explore on their own to our favorite places-- small museums, churches, shops, city walks, etc.

ONE MORE GOOD QUESTION!

We are often asked how we can offer so much more than similarly priced tours. The reason is simple: we do everything we can do keep our costs low so your travel dollars go toward your trip and not toward fancy offices and company  overhead.

We work from home, using our own computers, phones, and other equipment. We do all our own research, copywriting, and marketing. We even do all our own website work. In short, we do everything we can to provide the best trip for your time and money.

For any other questions e-mail us at info@timeofyourlifetours.net . Be sure to include a phone number and a good time to reach you if you'd like us to call you.

Why should I travel with Time of Your Life Tours?

Unlike many other tours, we go through "the front door," staying in truly special and uniquely European hotels.  We choose excellent restaurants (that few tourists would find) where you'll enjoy the finest typical regional dishes.  And, you are not limited to a set tourist menu, but are free to order as you wish off the menu.  We travel at a leisurely pace so that you will really get a feel for the cities we visit.  We provide informative evening lectures, so you'll have a sense of what's important and what's interesting about the fabulous works of art you'll see.

We have spent years researching every last detail, so you can relax and enjoy yourself without hassles or worries.  Most importantly, as the owners of this company, we are committed to doing all we can to make your trip the time of your life.

Plus, you'll have a knowledgeable guide in Paula Russell to provide you with expert commentary. Paula has studied all aspects of Italian art, culture and history for over 20 years and delights in bringing Italy to life for our clients. She can also help you tailor your free time to your specific interests.

Can you help me purchase airline tickets?

We can recommend an excellent travel agent who can assist you in finding the best flights for your needs.  (Please note: we do not receive any commission or any other sort of consideration from the agent.) 

How much walking is there?

You can expect to walk approximately three miles and to be on your feet most of the day visiting museums, exploring the cities, shopping, etc. Of course, there will be breaks and times to relax as we go.

Can my husband come?

Our tours are girlfriends' tours and open only to women. However, we will create and lead a special tour for any group of 8-12 people that want an exclusive tour. If you wish to travel with your husband and can put together a group this is an excellent option.

Is there an age limit?

While most of the women on our tours are in their 40's and 50's, we welcome women of all ages as long as they are in good health and can keep up with the physical demands of the tour. Our tours are not suitable for children.

Why aren't most lunches included?

While the tour includes a breakfast every day and dinner most nights, lunches are only included on our day trips to the Tuscan hills and to Fiesole. We do this to give you the most flexibility possible: you might want to spend more (or less) time in a museum or other place we visit; you may not be hungry at "lunchtime" and may prefer a light snack or gelato later in the afternoon: you may want to grab a panini or a salad, or you may prefer to order a full three course meal. The choice is yours.

You can expect to pay about $8.00 for a panini and beverage and about $20.00 for a substantial meal.

What kind of shopping can I expect?

Shopping in Italy is fantastic.  You will find gorgeous leather goods, silk ties and scarves, jewelry, hand-made paper goods, colorful pottery, perfumes and soaps, olive oil, pastas, and more. You can also find great affordable small gifts and many unique finds.

We have compiled lists of the best shops for all sorts of items-- where you'll find quality goods, great selection and fair prices.  We also know how to shop the lively outdoor markets.  (Please note: all our recommendations are based on our first-hand knowledge and we NEVER take any sort of commission.)

What can I do with my free time on the tour? 

We have a notebook with information on just about everything there is to see and do in each city, and can assist you in making the perfect plan (and any necessary reservations).  We are also happy to take those who don't want to explore on their own to our favorite places-- small museums, churches, shops, city walks, etc.

ONE MORE GOOD QUESTION!

We are often asked how we can offer so much more than similarly priced tours. The reason is simple: we do everything we can do keep our costs low so your travel dollars go toward your trip and not toward fancy offices and company  overhead.

We work from home, using our own computers, phones, and other equipment. We do all our own research, copywriting, and marketing. We even do all our own website work. In short, we do everything we can to provide the best trip for your time and money.

For any other questions e-mail us at info@timeofyourlifetours.net . Be sure to include a phone number and a good time to reach you if you'd like us to call you.