Village Life in the Italian Lakes District

Experience the true essence of life in and the incomparable beauty and charm of the fascinating region of Lombardy.

High on the list of the most captivating destinations in the world is northern Italy's fabled Lake District. Its unique setting of glacial waters and Alpine peaks, sub-tropical climate, ancient towns painted in terra cotta and ochre, and distinctly bella figura Italian style combined with a rich history, has inspired poets, composers, musicians, artists and philosophers for centuries.

We are delighted to offer this seven-night Village Life in the Italian Lake District program, a wonderful way to experience the true essence of life in and the incomparable beauty and charm of the fascinating region of Lombardy. Our expert-guided tours explore the artistic and architectural treasures left by Roman patricians, medieval lords and Renaissance princes, while enriching lectures and the exclusive VILLAGE FORUM featuring local residents bring you personal perspectives on Lombardy's cultural heritage and modern life. You will have opportunities to taste - and even cook - northern Italy's acclaimed cuisine and learn key Italian phrases, making your visits to Como's lively market all the more enjoyable.

Complementing this one-of-a-kind comprehensive soggiorno are accommodations in the charming HOTEL REGINA OLGA, overlooking Lake Como, and located in the heart of the ancient town of Cernobbio, just north of Milan.

Village Life in the Italian Lake District is a popular travel program, an excellent value and a great opportunity to really experience daily life in one of Italy's most unique settings with the convenience of unpacking only once.

Dates and Prices:

Trip Dates: September 8 - 16, 2012
Prices: $3,495 per person based upon double occupancy
Single Supplement: $800           

Trip Summary:

Day 1 - Depart from the U.S. or Canada
Day 2 - Milan, Italy/Cernobbio
Day 3 - Cernobbio/Como
Day 4 - Cernobbio/Bellagio/Villa del Balbianello
Day 5 - Cernobbio/Como (optional)
Day 6 - Cernobbio/Stresa/Lake Maggiore/Borromean Islands
Day 7 - Cernobbio/Lugano, Switzerland (optional)
Day 8 - Cernobbio
day 9 - Cernobbio/Milan/Return to the U.S.

Accommodations: Seven nights at the Hotel Regina Olga

Overlooking Lake Como in the charming village of Cernobbio, just outside of Como, the lovely Hotel Regina Olga combines traditional Italian ambiance with modern facilities, exceptional service and comfortable, stylish accommodations. Most rooms feature views of Lake Como and are furnished with a full complement of amenities including private bath, air conditioning, direct-dial telephone, cable television, minibar, hair dryer and ample closet space.

The Hotel Regina Olga has two dining rooms serving northern Italian cuisine in elegant but informal settings, while the bar, coffee lounge and cocktail terrace bar are ideal for enjoying light refreshments. Table wines are complimentary with included dinners. The hotel also features a variety of recreational opportunities, including an outdoor swimming pool set amid the property's beautifully landscaped gardens.

Inclusions:

    All accommodations, specified meals, excursions and visits as outlined in the brochure
    Gratuities for local guides and drivers on all included excursions and transfers
    Experienced Travel Director to accompany group throughout the program
    Hospitality Desk
    Travel document wallet, name badge and pre-departure information

Not included:
Taxes; passport fees; visas and fees for obtaining visas; personal expenses such as laundry and telephone calls; accident/sickness, trip cancellation, and baggage insurance; gratuities to ship and hotel personnel; optional sightseeing excursions; excess baggage charges on aircraft; local departure air taxes; airfare and associated local taxes, airport facility taxes and federal inspection fees not listed int he "included features" section of the program brochure; transfers and baggage handling to/from airport/hotel on day(s) of arrival and/or departure 1) if you have not purchased your air arrangements through our tour operator, or 2) if you are arriving earlier or later and/or departing earlier or later that scheduled group transfer(s); meals and and alcoholic beverages not listed in the "Included Features" section of the program brochure; and all other services not specifically mentioned in the "Included Features" section of the program brochure.

Please call us toll-free at (866) 325-8664 or email us at travelstudy@columbia.edu for more details.