Your Own Private Tuscany: A Guide to Italian Vacation Rentals

Have you ever dreamed about a few idyllic weeks in Italy, staying in a lovingly restored historic villa or apartment? Can you imagine yourself wandering through vibrant villages and towns, seeking out art treasures in tumble-down churches, and shopping for antiques, fine wines and the latest fashions along streets that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries? Does dining in rustic country trattorias, chic city restaurants, or even trying your hand at cooking authentic Italian meals in your own villa kitchen appeal to you? If you thought that this kind of vacation was only for the super-wealthy, you are in for a surprise. Your Own Private Tuscany is the first guide that helps you turn this fantasy into an affordable reality.

Your Own Private Tuscany is not like other guides. It won't dictate where you should go or stay, what you should see, do, or eat, but it will give you all the tools required to custom-design a trip that suits your own personality and interests. In the pages of the guide you will find explanations of what to expect in an Italian rental, the reasons that vacation rentals are vastly superior to hotels, and specific instructions for finding a rental on the Internet at a price that is within your means. There are descriptions of regions to visit, the probable costs involved in renting, and tips on car rental, driving, and travelling with groups and children. Instructions on dining out and shopping in family-run stores, supermarkets and outdoor markets are spelled out for you. You'll even find reviews of rental agencies and guidebooks, and cookbook recommendations to help you prepare superb meals. So what are you waiting for? The holiday of a lifetime is closer than you think.