Dear Lauren,
It is hard to put into words how great I thought our trip to Italy was. Being at the villa and having Giovanni drive us to many towns was so perfect in so many ways. We felt totally immersed in the culture of Tuscany. The cooking was fabulous and we came home with lots of recipes and are dying to try out our new cooking skills. Melina and Julia were wonderfully patient with my "cooking skills" or lack thereof. We are able to help Fabrizio's daughter, Sophia celebrate her 1st birthday and had such fun. Meeting others who stayed at the villa was great fun too and we had many an adventure. Lauren, you were totally right that we should have stayed at least 2 nights in Positano and will certainly do so the next time! It was a simply amazing city. Would love to do the Amalfi coast in more detail and unfortunately we did not get to do the things we wanted in Rome (Vatican, Sistine Chapel, etc.) so we will just have to come back. Italy was more than I ever expected. Friendly, beautiful and such amazing history.Thank you so much for helping us with this once in a lifetime trip. It was more than I had ever imagined. PS I'll certainly pass along your name to all of my friends considering visiting!
Sincerely,
Judy Luff
Thank you all at Cooking Vacations!
I have just returned and still getting over the jet lag, but the memories will last forever!The Women Only Tour in Venice was an amazing experience, I met such wonderful new friends, learned some great new recipes and enjoyed Venice so much. Thank you for suggesting the Women Only Culinary Tour –it made my summer vacation!
Helene D.
Cambridge MA
Barbara and I had an incredible time during the Couples Only Culinary Tour. Thank you for helping us put it all together. We loved Sorrento and the food was just great. We are now enrolling in the local gym. Again grazie mille!
The Steins,
Florida
Villa Ortaglia was more than I ever expected. The rolling hills, the castle, Terenzio our gracious host and the cooking! Pici pasta, wine, and those cantucci! We loved every minute of our Cooking Vacations. Again thank you all for the bella experience.
John and Barbara Clarke
Denver Co
Hello Lauren,
Thanks for all that you did to make our trip what it was. It was more than I expected. The whole experience was really special. I learned so much and had loads of fun with everyone. Thanks again. I definitely would consider doing this again. You are very fortunate to live where you do. Ciao!!!
Cheryl Hays
Dear Lauren and Rino,
Thank you for a wonderful time in Positano. We've been to Italy several times, but what made this trip so special was the people.
It started with Maria at our accommodation. She was not just a Innkeeper. She was Nonna Maria welcoming us to stay in a room in her home. Luigi at Le Tre Sorelle showed us how to cook in his Grandmothers kitchen. It was obvious that he enjoyed and was proud of his resturant. Been doing nothing but raving about our time in Positano. I passed on your info to several friends. Hope they get the chance to enjoy Italy like we did soon!
Thanks again,
Michael & Larry
Hi Lauren and Melody,
Want to THANK YOU both for a memorable vacation. I had a great time and it was wonderful meeting you both. The dinner on Friday at Valle dei Mulini was amazing. Each course was as delicious as the next. And the finale was the trio of desserts each bite was delectable. I know we started off on a sour note, but you can be assured it all ended sweet. Reached home safe and now trying to get back into the rut. I’m sure you both are enjoying the cool mornings and nights and hot sunny days in beautiful Positano. Will keep in touch and send you pictures soon.
Thank you once again!
Warm regards,
Imelda
Hi Melody and Lauren:
Thank you for an incredible AND unforgettable Italian cooking vacation.
From the waiters, to the chefs, to Giovanna, Melody and Lauren, and the drivers, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
We learned some small samplings of the hows and whys Italian cooking is so famous at the great restaurant Tre Sorelle. As an added treat, Giovanna, the granddaughter of the original owner, taught us a bit of the history of the restaurant where we worked. Giovanna narrated the chef's work, as we eagerly took our turns making delectable fish dishes, pasta dishes, and amazing desserts!
Also, the side tours, such as Lauren's educational tour of Italy's local foods at Positano's delis, the tour of Michaelangelo's Mozzarella production company in Sorrento, and finally the excursions to Pompei, Amalfi and Ravello were an added treat, and not to miss!
Thank you again, for an unforgettable cooking vacation in Bella Italia. We cannot wait to return and learn some Italian along with the cooking on our next trip!
A Cooking Friend Always,
Kathy Steinhause
Hi Lauren Thank you so much for a wonderful time in Positano, we would love to come back and visit again soon. We are getting our pictures together now and if they turn out well, will send you some.
Many Thanks,
Kathy and Rick Blomquist
Lauren,
Thank you very much for sending the Cookbook, it looks fabulous – Janet has gone inter-state with work for the day – you should hear from her by the end of the week.
We loved the course and spending the time with you. Janet has already made the Italian Meatballs and it has our sons’ nod of appreciation.
K. McDonald
Sydney Australia
Dear Lauren, Melody, Rino, Fabrizio and troupe:
I just wanted to take a few minutes and say thank you again for the wonderful trip. As summer progresses, I find myself thinking often of the great memories of my time in Positano and Tuscany as well as the breathtaking landscapes. It was fun meeting all of you and sharing a moment in your lives there. I especially loved the wonder, beauty and charm of Positano and the people there. As well, the peace and comfort of the Tuscany countryside was complemented by the friendliness and openness of the people at Podre del Anselmo and will always have a special place in my heart.
I am including some photos for you.
If meet anyone who is contemplating going to Italy, I will be sending them your way!
Best wishes to everyone in the future and I hope I might see you all again some day!
Rebecca Schimelfenig
USA
Lauren & Melody:
Thank you so much for everything! We had an amazing vacation, it was all I dreamed it would be and more. I have been telling all my co-workers about your program and of course showing off our photos of the delicious foodsJ Everyone involved were so nice and helpful from our cleaning girls to the drivers. We really appreciate that.
I know the wedding had to be spectacular, I am sure you were a beautiful bride. I am excited to see any photos you might post.
Yes, I have started a diet, I gained 7 pounds…LOL! We learned so much and will definitely use all the recipes when possible.
As we say in Texas….”you guys got it going on!” LOL!
Best wishes and thanks for the experience of “La Dolce Vita”.
Glenda Burrell, Texas
Hi Lauren and Melody
Yes I thoroughly enjoyed the cooking session at Tre Sorella in Positano and I must say the lady owner was very hospitable, explaining the steps taken.
My daughter (who was sunning herself whilst dad cooked) joined us for the meal. Here is a picture below.
My daughter works in Rome so I hope to make another visit and hopefully can attend a longer cooking session.
With Best Wishes
Keith
Buon Giorno friends and family,
I miss all of you! I am still in a dream state.
My Cooking Tour in Positano left an indelible memory of new friends, delicious cuisine wrapped in beauty, laughter and abundant joy.
Hugs,
Kimballi
Thank you!
My friend and i thoroughly enjoyed cooking with Eugene Rossi in Rome! this past July. He was very full of local culinary information for generations back--
going to the ancient Testaccio Market was really exciting and great shopping too. I found a great pair of shoes for my daughter she adored!
We will definately do it again!
Ciao! and Mille grazie for all your help!
Nancy Nickerson
FLA
Hello Everyone at Cooking Vacations!
Hope you are doing well. Thank you for all your efforts for arranging my cooking vacation. I had a great time and enjoyed it a lot.
Here is the link to the pictures I sent last week.
If plan another cooking vacation, I will contact you.
Regards,
Mrs. I
NY
Hi Everyone at Cooking Vacations!
It was great to meet you and Lauren. We had a blast and I was actually thinking that only one week ago I was on the beach in 80 degree weather.
Today it was 38 degrees F when I woke up. Blah! Think we might be in for a long winter (sadly).
I'll pass the note along to Amy. I know she had a ton of fun and talked about returning someday.
I do have photos (4.5 Gig worth) but had to narrow it down to some of my "best" photos - 136 of them to be exact.
If you like any just let me know and I'd be happy to send them along :-)
Hi Lauren,
What a fantastic trip! There just aren't enough adjectives to describe it! It's the best thing I have ever done for myself.
Everyone I met was so lovely. Please say thank you from me to Rino, Maria and everyone at the property, and everyone at the cooking class. Giovanna is an angel!
Susan and I have spoken since our return and will hopefully keep in touch.
We really got along well and had many exciting adventures together.
I have already tried some of the recipes I learned and everything turned out great.
Family and friends were especially impressed by the limoncello tiramisu!! I've made it twice:)
I'm anxiously awaiting the boxes of goodies I had shipped from the delicatessen and the wine store downstairs.
I also met a very nice man while in Positano and we are planning to see each other again in November when things get a little quieter there
and he is able to take some time off. I met him on my first night in Positano, on the steps of the little church in the piazza. If all goes well, we will have quite a story to tell someday!
Thank you to all again for a life-changing experience.
I plan to hold on to the 'Positano Glow' I'm feeling for a long time!
Ciao,
Michele
Hi Lauren/Melody,
I am back in India after a busy schedule at london.Thank you both for a wonderful stay at Positano- My husband insists that I must take him there and experience all the joy and fun we had.He promises to even quietly watch my cooking classes,ha! ha!.
Will send you someof the pictures soon.Take care.
A big Hi to Rino.
Rama
“Best gnocchi I ever ate, Can I tell you how delicious everything was?
Howie Carr
WRKO 680AM-Boston
Lauren & Melody, I do want to let you both know that the Secret Garden trip was absolutely fabulous. You guys opened up a world to me and Diane that we would not have experienced without the insights and the people we met. We learned a lot…including how to live life! It’s a treasured memory and I’m sad it went so fast.
Thanks,
Aliza
California
Rigatoni with rib sausage and meatballs at La Tre Sorelle, on the beach at Positano. Glass of Prosecco while watching the boats and the sunset on the Tyrrhennian Sea.
I enjoyed the bustle and pace of the kitchen, the clanging of pots and pans, the efficiency of the heavy-duty burners and grinders and boilers and ovens, the incredible raw material - fresh seafood, marinated seafood, San Marzano tomatoes, pastas of various shapes, olive oils and herbs - the smell of which stayed with me for days -, the meticulous 'prep', the fast explosive action of cooking, the careful plating, and of course the colours and aroma and tastes of a mediterranean kitchen.
Chef made a classic Ragu Bolognese, starting with minced onions, carrots and celery and bay leaf, adding tomato sauce and red wine and beef and simmering for hours. I observed closely and stirred, and stirred and stirred.
Making Octopus salad with fresh Octopus from the Bay of Naples was a breeze.
Making my own Limoncello with Sorrentine lemons was fun and satisfying.
And pasta, pasta, glorious pasta
Rigatoni, Spaghetti, Vermicelli cooked in huge pasta boilers with the pasta water acting as a sauce starter. Always al dente. Sauces made with clams or squid or porcini, and tomatoes, olive oil, garlic and pepper flakes. Tossed together just before plating and topped with parmigiano, cracked pepper and olive oil. Simple and delicious.
We made Orange Caramel, with oranges steeped in caramelised sugar and Cointreau.
Eating what we cooked. Pasta with clams and 'white fish', crepes with porcini, cheese and lots of Aglianico, Campania's most famous wine. With Chef Vincenzo, Lorenzo, Fiorenzo and Emanuel at Ristorante Mediterraneo, Positano.
We all ate together: Vincenzo, Lorenzo, Fiorenzo, Emanuel and I Ate what we cooked, always with lots of wine
Chef Vincenzo and I made a good team And I gained lots of new friends. Grazie and Ciao to Vincenzo, Lorenzo, Enzo, Fiorenzo, Rodrigo and Emanuel. And thank you Lauren Birmingham of Cooking Vacations for making this happen.
Argha
Hong Kong
Hello Melody and Lauren,
I adored Italy and loved the class with Cooking Vacations. Positano is magical! Perhaps we'll visit Northern Italy next year and will incoroporate a fews days with your school at that time.
Thank you so very much for the wonderful recipes...can't wait to "lovingly inflict" them upon my friends and family! I'm attaching a few pics from the class.
Give my best to everyone and again, THANK YOU, (profusely)
Ciao,
Regina
Lauren, You taught me more in a week about how to live life than I've learned in 59 years!
E.B.
Lauren,
So sorry not to have written to you yet since I've been home but it got hectic real fast since my in-laws just arrived for three weeks from Israel and we are all going on a big family cruise for a week next Sat! Anyway, I can not thank you enough for making our stay in Positano so magical! You have no idea how much fun it was for all
Janice Rosen
Florida
Ravello...
A 4-hour cooking class this morning with Chefs Ranier and Franca -- AMAZING!
Rebecca
Toranto
Thank you! We had a fabulous time. The agroturismo, Montechiaro, was the very best - Carla and her daughter Cristina, together with Nicholas and Teresa, were wonderful teachers and generous to a fault. The rooms were terrific, the meals great, their flexibility and customization very helpful, and we were very happy there.
Anna, our guide for the tour of the cheese factory and balsamic vinegar maker and in Bologna, was also wonderful - tremendously knowledgeable, kind, and generous. The tours were wonderful - far more informative and special than we had imagined before! And her introduction to Bologna was also very good, giving us an excellent orientation to the city, the food market and to restaurants that we enjoyed as well. Your clients should know how lucky they will be if she is available for their visits... and the bed and breakfast was just perfect. Charming, pretty, comfortable, air conditioned, and very well located for all that we wanted to do. Paula, the hostess at the bed and breakfast, was also wonderfully helpful, and made us feel very well taken care of.
The entire trip exceeded my expectations, and I would be more than glad to be a reference for both the Bologna and Montechiaro parts of the itinerary. Please let them know for us how happy we were with our time in both places.
Warm thanks - Molly
Dear Mara and Terenzio,
We are at home enjoying the beauty of a vividly colorful New England autumn, but yet recalling the wonderful memories of our week of Villa Ortaglia's Cooking Vacation in and around Montepulciano.
Our vacation with you exceeded our expectations--something that rarely happens in life. The Villa Ortaglia is beautiful and the views of the surrounding vineyards and San Biagio are breathtaking. You are attentive hosts who paced our week so well, routed our daily excursions with such care, shepherded us through Valdorcia, and even stayed up like a parent to make sure we were home at night. Dinner at Le Logge del Vignola and La Grotta were beautiful and delicious, and we would probably not have found them or eaten there, if they hadn't been part of our package. Our spa treatments at Terme Montepulciano were "just what the doctor ordered" to relax us after our twenty-four hour trip NYC/Frankfurt/Pisa/Montepulciano and several days of sightseeing. The cooking school aspect of our week was what really made it special. Learning about your vineyards, winemaking, your labels, and your business in the US--and especially drinking your wonderful wines both from Tuscany and Verona were highpoints. Two evenings of cooking with both of you and Maria and then eating and drinking together in the beautiful Villa Ortaglia kitchen was like living in a movie set. And best of all, we enjoyed your company.
We have wonderful photos (which we will share when we get them organized) which will remind us of our Villa Ortaglia VIP Premium Cooking Vacation.
We send you our best wishes and hope that Mara has had a good trip to Verona.
Fondly and sincerely,
Cheryl (and Bill) Edelen
Our trip to Cinque Terre, Italy was a wonderful success. We enjoyed our stay in beautiful Rapallo. We especially enjoyed our cooking classes as well as our trip to Cinque Terre. Our guides were AMAZING!! Thank you for ALL your hard work.
Jane Hanratty & Joan Barry
You were great. You had everything planned perfect and so timely in Cinque Terre. I also greatly appreciate your help with the lost luggage. You and your group were perfect and made our trip outstanding.
Tammy Williams
Bella Laurena~
We really experienced it all! We returned to Los Angeles last evening and are moping around this morning wishing we were back in Positano! You have picked a cherry from life!
Thank you for all you assistance in our trip. We missed you in Venezia, it was fairytale beauty - sun, good food, wine (of course) gondolas, water taxis, sight seeing boat tour, walking tours, and an incredible hotel.
Roma was also awesome. I wanted to call you from Venezia and Roma - and mentioned it many times - but did not want to deal with the purchase of a calling card, etc. You were on our minds. Roma was nice, on Via Veneto, and some sightseeing. Sam and I were to do up the city at night, but I was exhausted!
Lots of love and soon lots of pictures. We are home safely.
Gary D
Los Angeles CA
My Dear Positano Pals,
It was so much fun reading all your emails when we got home. That was on Saturday, 9-20 around 3:00 p.m. pacific time, midnight Italy time. We had been up since 4 a.m. to catch our flight out of Rome. Needless to say,
Sunday was a no brain day. We could hardly function even after sleeping almost 12 hours. Our coffee maker decided to give it up that morning so we had no coffee!!!. Yikes!!! I had to get to the store pronto and buy a new coffee maker and food. The cupboards were bare!
Spending time with all of you made my trip to Positano extra special and so much fun. Amanda and I are going to enjoy our laughs together for years. Jenny, I was so sorry to hear of the losses suffered by your friends and family, and am glad all escaped with life and limb in tact. If there is any way I can be of help please let me know. Kathleen, kudos to you for getting your pics in order so fast and sending them to us. I really enjoyed seeing them. I will send mine as soon as I can get them into my system. I haven't even looked at them yet.
Our time in Tuscany was wonderful and relaxing. Our little apartment in Sinalunga was a real treasure. If any of you plan a trip to Tuscany, contact me for info. We spent our days driving through the countryside and hill towns relishing the fine food, views and historical sights.
I hope all of you are well and setteling back into your daily grinds a little more relaxed.
Ciao, ciao for now.
Fondly, Bonnie
Dear Melody and Lauren,
We thoroughly enjoyed our Cooking Vacation. As Mom said on the way home, it was all we hope it would be and more. The cooking was a wonderful opportunity for a mother/ daughter vacation. We're eager to try our recipes with our family and are planning to do meatballs for a family reunion on Mom's birthday the first of August. I have plans for the shrimp pasta and a pizza for my family this week. Please give our thanks to all our wonderful hosts who taught us Amalfi Coast cooking. I'm already enjoying our olive oil from Mama Rosa's.
Thank you Lauren,
I always love your recipes and thoughts! I miss Positano! We are in the process of adopting a child from China, so our next trip will be there to get her. I am so glad we went through your agency to Italy! It will be a memory for our lifetime!
Joy Carter
Dear Lauren,
Secret Garden Positano-
We just wanted to take the time to say grazie!! Our trip once again was amazing and well planned. Spending time with you and your family was a feeling of family. We feel a special bond has formed with Gina, Adam, Siena, and Chloe, and for this we feel blessed.
The trip to Sorriento with Antonio and Mama Rosa's family was our favorite day. Antonio was extremely knowledgeable and has such a passion for the foods and culture in Italy. Your expertise and love for Italy shows and we thank you.We miss Positano so much and are already planning our next visit.Our travels were enriching and enhanced through the eyes of family. The whole experience was filled with lemons and olives, smiles and hugs, and colors only dreamed of.
What cooking vacations is not ? It is NOT getting up with the birds, it is NOT being herded on and off a bus, NOT being led by an umbrella or flag, and it is NOT eating tourist menus! It is a true lifestyle...
Ciao!
Susanne, Steve, and Liam Shand
New York
Greetings Melody and Lauren:
Many thanks for all your work in organizing our terrific Secret Garden cooking vacation in Positano. Nancy and I had a terrific time and have been trying out all the recipes for our families and friends! I hope all is well with both of you and all in Positano.
Elinor Ginzler
USA
Lauren,
We had a very nice time on the trip in Puglia. The accommodations were beautiful and the staff very helpful and kind.
The cooking instructor, Patrizia, was equally wonderful and pleasant. We would thoroughly recommend her to others.
The excursions were great with the highlights being Matera and Alberobello. We even had a few added surprises such as the trip to Martina Franca with a visit to a horse farm and also to Altamura for their famous bread.
Thank you for all of your organization for this trip.
Donatella
Hi Lauren Our trip to Italy was fantastic thanks to you-the most memorable part was the special occasions you set up-namely the cooking class and tasting dinner at Tre Sorelle-wonderful experiences not to mention the aprons we have for lasting memories-thanks a million for all your efforts and splendid hospitality
- Best Regards
Dr. P.E. and wife Barb
Boston, MA
Lauren,
I echo Molly's sentiments on a wonderful cooking vacation. It hit the perfect notes for us both at Montechiaro and in Bologna. I, too, would be happy to be a reference. Thank you for your wonderful assistance in putting our trip together.
Kathy Turner
Dear Lauren,
Nancy and myself want to thank you for helping us book our Cooking School trip in Venice. We just returned yesterday and everything from the accommodations, cooking school, tours and transportation were first class. We want to specially say that Linda and her partner Martina were most helpful in showing us around Venice and all the areas that most visitors do not get to see. Linda was most helpful in enlightening us about the history of the lovely city of Venice with her knowledge and perfect English...We really felt at home in the "Palace" and Maria Grazie was the perfect host .
The cooking lessons given by Maria and Sebastiane Molani were not only fun, but delicious! We certainly will be contacting you next year to visit some of the other cities that you have to offer.
Regards,
Kathleen Salata
Dear Lauren,
Bob and I had a wonderful time with Mamma Rosa and Antonio! It was a very special experience for us and we look forward to taking more classes someday. Since it was my husband’s birthday, I stepped back from the kitchen and let him be the student and I, the photographer.
Many thanks for making the arrangements for us to have this special cooking experience! My husband was thrilled with his present!
Cheers,
Blair R.
Seattle, WA
Lauren, our cooking vacation was a wonderful and rich experience that we would recommend to friends, family and strangers alike. Both of the classes were excellent in their own unique ways and were terrific compliments to each other. The logistics and lodging were perfectly thought out and coordinated and that made us able to relax and just get in the spirit of the Amalfi coast. And Positano was indeed perfect, thanks for that suggestion. Wonderful! Molto bene!
Regards,
Barbara Doyle
USA
Victoria had a wonderful time. Fabrizio, Melina, Simonetta and the rest of the staff made such a fuss over her. We met a lovely German family with a son and daughter 13 and 15 years old (Victoria is 14) and an Irish family who had younger children, so she wasn't the only adolescent. She had never met people from other countries so it was a wonderful experience for her. She loved the pool and went to visit the horses several times a day and Kristen took her for an advanced hour and a half ride. And of course, Fabrizio is Fabrizio....!!
G. A. Damiano
NY, NY
Lauren, I cannot thank you enough for this fabulously fun and interesting trip. I loved the fact that there were only 7 of us in the group—smaller is so much better for these things! Fabrizio and his wonderful, warm family were a joy, as was the entire staff at his podere—I so loved every minute. And you, my dear, are a gem! How can every endeavor that you undertake NOT be a huge success—you're so caring, conscientious, and attentive, Lauren—how could you not succeed? I forwarded the agenda of this Tuscany experience to a woman that I met at a wine tasting last night because she's very interested, as well as having told tons of people about this super trip. Even though we had previously visited almost all of the sites that we toured, it was still great because Fabrizio pointed out things that we had previously missed—always better through a native's eyes, of course.
B. Morris
Cranston, Rhode Island
Lauren & Melody -
Thank you for all of your assistance -- my trip was fabulous - Rocco was a very amiable and gracious host -- His wife and sister were wonderful teachers -- I learned a lot and had quite a bit of fun in the process. They made me feel so welcome in their kitchen and their love for and knowledge of Ischia is evident and really enhanced the experience.
Didn't take a lot of pictures and since I got back late last night haven't had a chance to upload them yet -- if there's anything worth sharing I will certainly pass it to you. I'm afraid I'm going to have to focus on work for a bit (banking -- yikes!!) before planning my next trip, but I would love to explore more cooking vacations in the future and will certainly keep your offer in mind.
Ciao and mille grazie!
Susan
Dear Lauren & Melody, I just wanted to send you a note to let you know how wonderful the cheese-making demo with Mamma Rosa was. It was a big hit with everyone. As soon as we walked into the kitchen, we knew that this was a great call. It is really tough to plan an itinerary that will appeal to everyone, but this excursion did.
I was a little concerned because I am the only foodie in the group, but everyone had a blast. It was very authentic.
Anyway, thanks again and I will be in touch for my next trip.
Best Regards,
Brian B. PA
Hi Lauren - and Melody!!
Bryn and I have returned to the chilly Northwest, and miss Constantine, Angela and beautiful Positano!! Thank you for a wonderful cultural experience, it really was impressive. Thanks again for a lifetime experience!!
Kristin Joyner, Washington
Lauren , I just want to thank you on the two trips I booked with you. The Forconi Estate cooking weekend was just fabuolous. The food was great , it's amazing how they make the recipes look so easy and taste so good. Fabrizio is a man that displays a great passion for his wine and the food that accompanies it. The stay at the estate was topped of with a midnite trip to the wine cellar where we sampled his next release of wines.
The palazzo which we stayed in Venice was far more beautiful than I ever could have imagined, made more delightful by the host and owner Maria Grace. Her restaurant recomendations were excellant which were only topped by the delicous breakfasts served in the classical dinning room.
With your help you made me look good. Eileen and I now have memories which will last a lifetime.
ciao and grazie
Chris P., MA
Just wanted to let you know that we enjoyed Villa Ortaglia immensely. Terenzio and his wife Mara were very gracious hosts. My wife, daughter, sister , my son’s fiancee and her sister enjoyed the cooking classes very much. We also had ample time to take trips to Cortona, Sienna, San Giamonao, and Assissi. Also, the tour Terenzio took us on was extemely enjoyable and interesting.
Dennis,
Colorado
Thank you so much for arranging a wonderful cooking experience for Deb and me. We can't stop talking about how much fun we had and how much we learned from Luca, Luigi and of course Chef Lizia. What a wonderful family you've partnered up with! We're anxious to come back for another class!
Thanks to both of you again! We had a ton of fun! I hope you're doing well, and please keep in touch.
All the best,
Tom
New York, NY
Dear Lauren -
We truly enjoyed our vacation and all the activities you scheduled for us! Thank you and Melody for all your efforts. I will send you some photos as soon as I get them downloaded.
Thanks again - Miles and Alison
Hi Lauren:
We had a great time with Fabrizio and at the Forconi Estate. Food, people, cooking couldn't have been better and the location is just beautiful. I will email you photos when Victoria sends them to me.
Regards,
Gayle
Hi, Lauren, just wanted to drop you a note to formally thank you for helping us to have the most wonderful vacation ever. We never really got to say goodbye after the boat, you started talking and I got taken away by the porter. So kisses and hugs for arranging the boat, it was the highlight of our trip!!!! I'll send you some pictures soon. Keep in touch and talk to you soon.
Best Wishes,
Evie & Natanya khazzam and Joyce & Tara.
Canada
Lauren: We enjoyed our vacation very much. I have my pictures and as soon as I can remember how to share them I will send a few. Somehow I forgot to take your picture and would love to have one to add to my memories.
Love, Anna Marie
Hi Lauren,
Thanks so much for making my dream happen - I had a wonderful time & Fabrizio & his cooking "family" were wonderful. I'm looking forward to my next cooking adventure & will contact you soon.
Regards, G.A.
Dear Lauren,
I just returned from my trip to Italy and I have to say the cooking school at Villa Ortaglia was the highlight of my trip. Wonderful people ( the owners) and a beautiful house and pool. It was all that I wished for and more.
Thank you for all the hard work you did to help me.
Sincerely,
Ray Lucchetti
Dear Lauren, As promised, attached is a link to photos (probably more than you would like - sorry!) from our week in Positano. As we told you when we left, we had a really terrific time - the program was perfectly suited to our family - indeed, it would be hard to imagine something better if it had been designed just for us.
Thanks for everything. Good luck with your business - this is a great idea - and we hope to have another opportunity to cook again with you in Italy soon.
Best, Chris and Leah Tahbaz
NY, NY
We had a wonderful time!! Spending the day with this family was a delight... we "talked" , cooked and really enjoyed the country side. What a wonderful way to "see" the real Italy!!!
We just came back from lunch where Jack was delighted to impress our guests (who ordered gnocchi) with the story of how he actually MADE gnocchi. Lexie wanted everyone to know that she went on the ROOF of our hotel. I think you are in the business of making beautiful memories there!
Best- Michele Switzerland
Dear Lauren, Caitlin and I had a wonderful time at the Secret Garden Positano. All the planned activities were perfect and we met such wonderful interesting and warm people. The B & B, the cooking lessons, Mario, Enzo etcall made our trip one to remember. Caitlin returned to Florida and I to Michigan so all is well.
Keep in touch! Love, Carol
I just want to reiterate the tremendous time we had as your guests in April..I cannot tell you how many times I think about the incredible hospitality of the people of Positano, the great cooks and the ease in planning that is your trademark! I am so happy that we found you and I certainly am coming back in April again for an adventure...Your friends, cooks and all the people that made it happen will never be forgotten..Especially you..I truly miss Positano....Regards to the family
Deb Gray
New York, NY
Lauren, I can't tell you how much we enjoyed our cooking experience with Fabrizio. He and his staff were simply delightful and we spent all day preparing and eating a fabulous feast. He properly paired the wines to go with the appropriate courses. Afterward, we toured his horse stable, olive grove and vineyard. He went through the process of turning grapes into wine which we found very interesting. He then invited us to swim in his pool but we decided to further tour the region on our own. I highly recommend his cooking school whenever you have reason to send people there. I would love to return one day and we can't wait to try some of the recipes we learned that day.
Best, Dale Finn
I just wanted to send you a note to let you know how wonderful the cheese-making demo with Mamma Rosa was. It was a big hit with everyone. As soon as we walked into the kitchen, we knew that this was a great call. It is really tough to plan an itinerary that will appeal to everyone, but this excursion did.
I was a little concerned because I am the only foodie in the group, but everyone had a blast. It was very authentic.
Anyway, thanks again and I will be in touch for my next trip.
Best Regards
B. Bereznak
Hi Lauren,
We had a great time in Italy, thank you for everything you did to make our vacation so wonderful. We did receive the recipes and we will enjoy making everything for our friends and family.
Kath & Mike Forbord
Wayzata, Minnesota
We had an excellent time at Villa Ortaglia. Terenzo and his wife were very gracious hosts. The villa was beautiful. What a wonderful experience. We are already talking about going back and have recommended to friends.
N. Tarini USA
Again, thanks for everything that you did for us. It was a pleasure meeting you in person and we look forward to going to Italy to revisit.
With love-
Mimi & Mike
Lauren, I thoroughly enjoyed the cooking experience, especially the time spent with Antonio and Mama Rosa. Feel free to use me as a reference for future clients. As soon as I download my photos, I will send the cooking ones on to you for your website. Let me know if you ever get down to the Atlanta area as I would be glad to host you for a few days. Safe travel back to Italy this week and give my best to Melody and the cooking chefs.
Debbe
WOW! What an amazing trip I had, Positano and Venice were the highlights
but all parts of it were fantastic.
I wanted to thank you so much for the cooking experience in Positano, it
really was fantastic, The market tour and meeting the locals was great as
was cooking with Roberto & Pietro.
I was hoping you could please forward me the recipes from the pasta making
class w Roberto? Everyone is keen experience my wonderful cooking and I
can't bare to let them down ;)
Sally McMann
Australia
Hi Lauren,
Griffin and I so very much loved our cooking class.The chefs were so incredibly nice and warm. It was really a pleasure to meet them. The recipes were great. Our taxi driver was so enjoyable as well. Positano was beautiful and our boat trip to Capri was superb. So as you can see, we loved the cooking class (the people were so great), we loved the boat trip and we really liked Poitano. Will be in touch for future travel
Karen Brill
Boston, MA
Hello Lauren,
I am finally getting around to sending along some pictures from our trip to the Foconi Estate, The Podere del Ansellmo in Montespertoli. Liz and I had a wonderful time. We learned alot and had so much fun. The entire staff was great and fun to cook with.
Thanks again!
Mark and Liz Kurowski
We so enjoyed our stay at the Secret Garden in Positano and meeting Rachel was a delight.
Smoki Bacon and Dick Concannon,
Boston
The food was great and the people were wonderful. We couldn't have asked for a better vacation. Thanks for all of your help.
S. Patchen
C.A.
Dear Lauren
We arrived back from Roma today and had a wonderful cooking experience! Thank you for organising this wonderful experience for us.
C. Coyne
Ireland
Dear Lauren, Just returned from beautiful Italy. Our last 'adventure' just before we left for our trip home was the cooking class with Chef Rosa. What a fantastic experience! The entire family was wonderful--so charming, so welcoming, so well-prepared. Loved the people, the up-to-our-elbows cooking, the eating, and the tour of their family property. We would recommend this to everyone!!!! The family was phenomenal! And we would not hesitate to recommend it to everyone! Thank you for all your patience and assistance in arranging this excellent 'farewell-to Italy" for us!
Best, Sandy Rothschild
The Secret Garden program in Positano was a wonderful cooking experience. Chefs Rosa and Antonio are amazing cooks and we really learned a lot. I will never forget the size of those beautiful yellow lemons. Our Lemon Cake was really a hit when we came back and created the menu for our friends. Happy Cooking.
M.L.B
New York, NY
Wish I could have stayed longer is my only regret. Thank you for planning such a unique trip. Seeing the monks and watching the artisan wine maker was a sight I will never forget. Our cooking class and the olive oils of Umbria with Francesco were so special. I will miss my morning cappuccino and the hot cornettos on the terrace.
Ms. D’Arresso and family
CA
I came back a little fatter, but considering all I cooked and ate, I am not surprised. Those tomatoes from the marketplace and the fresh organic herbs really made that pici pasta a hit. Many thanks to you and your staff for wonderful experience at the Forconi Estate. Cannot wait to go back.
Mr. C. Rogers London,
England
Dear Lauren,
Thanks for setting up all the classes and the custom tour for me during my trip to Capri and the Amalfi Coast. I had a great time!
The class on Capri with Roberto and Mama Rosa was great. Roberto was excited to share with me all aspects of their zero-waste and organic farm. I really enjoyed the hands-on and personal cooking experience. The simple high-quality courses were perfect and were well complimented by the setting and hosts.
I really enjoyed the pizza and cheese making class too. Antonio delivered the tour with passion and excitement. I think it is every guys ream to make pizza in a real wood fired pizza oven. It was nice touring the family property and seeing the family participate in the cooking and upkeep.
Thanks for setting up the private tour of the factories around Sorrento. I got to see the large scale and small scale production of Limoncello first hand.
Fred Groth
Boulder, CO
Dear Lauren,
Thank you so much for setting up a wonderful trip to Positano and the Amalfi Coast.
I so much enjoyed my cooking experience. Please thank Chef Roberto and Pietro for a fun time with lots of laughs, and of course all the new cooking techniques I learned. My time with Mamma Rosa was great, now everyone wants me to make homemade mozzerella for them.
Unfortunately the marinated eggplant I purchased from Emilia was taken from me at the Naples airport, too much liquid. I begged with the security guards to eat it and not throw it out, but.....Anyway if she can ship me a small jar it would be greatly appreciated. Send my best to Mario, and Melody
Once again Thank you so much for a memorable trip and a great time.
Arden Ginsberg
Hi Lauren, My daughter Gervaise and I had a great time with Chef Eugenio Rossi. I didn't write down the names of the dishes but I have pictures and can describe the ingredients. One really helpful hint: Always put garlic into "cold" olive oil and then bring up the heat. This way the garlic infuses the oil and it doesn't burn and make your dishes taste bitter. Thanks Lauren.
Toni Estrada
USA
Hi Melody and Lauren. First, let me tell you that we had a tremendous time on our vacation in Positano. Everything ran smoothly and Angela and Constantino were the best hosts. Such a charming B&B. I’m still working on pictures, but will be away for a long weekend. As soon as I get back, I’ll send some to you. Elinor, Marty, Nancy and me are all exchanging photos so we have quite an assortment.
Melody, thanks too for taking the time to say goodbye as we headed to the airport – we appreciated your kindness. Although it was hard to leave Italy, we were surprised by being bumped up to First Class Club World on our flight from London to Chicago! Made going home a bit easier.
Take care ~
Maryellen
Hi Lauren, Just to let you know how much we enjoyed the day at the cooking school Forconi Estate and the vineyard. The food was magic and we were treated so well. We appreciate all the organizing you did and would recommend the day to anyone who wants a typical Italian experience.
B. Sheards
Australia
It was a lovely weekend thank-you. We thoroughly enjoyed the cooking lessons which were also very useful. Our Cooking Vacations program in Cinque Terre was in a lovely location and you were right to advise that weekend as we felt as though we were waited upon hand and foot by Marco and Giovanna. All in all we were both very impressed and were very happy with our Cooking Vacation!
A. Edwards
London, England
Lauren: Just a little note to tell you that we had the most wonderful Cooking Vacation possible, and your energy, was even part of all the fun leading up to it. We went to Cortona, Lucca, Siena (una citta bellisima, Rome-incredible Rome, wandered around a whole day in bliss and re-united with my old friend from Swiss boarding school and Cinque Terre –where we even heard coo koos singing in the woods, way way up in the hills. And oh, the food! Hope to go back next fall. Fun, writing this note even....brings back the memories. Ciao.
Molly Detweiler
USA
Lauren - Italy was a fabulous adventure that met every expectation. Thanks for all your help in arranging good places with good people. The Forconi Estate was tremendous and the excursion to Venice was a great adventure. Alessandra was such a gracious host. My travels the first week went well also - each of our concerts were well received and very fun to do. Made international travel feel more like we had something to give back and a special way to connect - rather than just 'taking' like a tourist. Just wanted you to know my time was just terrific
J. Warner
USA
Have lots of pictures. I think they turned out great. We had loads of fun!! Thank you for the experience! We loved it. The transfer worked out great too All the people who had help us were incredible. Really just great and they gave me peace of mind! Thank you. You are lucky to be from here :)
S. Jindal
Washington, D.C.
We had such a great time at Ortaglia - it was truly an experience I will remember for ever. I have told everyone I know about your incredible kindness and hospitality and that I enjoyed the experience so much more because of the passion for all things Italian, but especially Tuscany. We would have never seen the monks chanting, or had wine at LePresi in Montalcino; no one can believe that grand mom made us lunch and brought the grandchildren to visit - amazing, or learned the history of Pienza! Could not believe the wine tastings we were treated to!!! I learned so much about Italian wine. THANK YOU!! It's supposed to be a beautiful weekend here, but nowhere near as beautiful as Southern Tuscany and Ortaglia in September, I am sure. I will just think about all the stars in the beautiful sky and hope to visit again soon.
M. Moncaco
New Jersey
We had such a wonderful time in Italy. One of the highlights for me was our cooking class in Sorrento. It was wonderful. I have not stopped raving about it. Raffella and her staff were great. The class was fun and what we made delicious. I think I have mastered the art of gnocchi and cannot wait to make it for my family and friends. A big thank you to you for all you did for us. They also recommended some restaurants in Sorrento and made the reservations for us during our stay. They could not have been more accommodating and nice. The other nice morning was a walk through the Lemon Grove in Sorrento. It is family owned and run. They make their own Limoncello, which we got to have a free tasting. Of course we all bought at least 5-6 bottles to take home. They have a shop right across the street from the Grove and we got complimentary gelato for purchasing so much, which is also home made by the family.
And lastly our day in Capri was fabulous! It was a picture perfect day. Weather was the best and we all loved it.
M. Fidance
Wilmington, Delaware
Becky and I really enjoyed our stay at Villa Ortaglia! The Villa and surrounding vineyards were just fantastic! The hospitability and warmth extended by Mara and Terenzio would be hard to exceed. The cooking classes with Maria and Mara were a lot of fun and most rewarding in that we dinned on the results, and what a reward that was! Thanks again for the wonderful vacation package the Villa and the area were like a little piece of Heaven.
B. Wallace
Arlington, Texas
Anastasia and I had a most magical experience in Positano. We made such good friends, many of whom you were kind enough to refer us to and what can I say about Maria Lucia? She was so very hospitable, warm and friendly to us. We all became good friends. The cooking classes her was the best. We truly were able to capture the allure of Positano and it shall remain with us forever. We had so many cherished experiences there. I have many pictures to share with you. Thank you so much for coordinating our cooking vacation!
J. M. Jarema
New York, New York
Wanted you to know everything worked out fine with Seahorse and Pompeii trip. Also Our stay at the Palazzo was wonderful. Paola and Angela are the best...cooking class really fun and delicious. ..service first class. We highly recommend it and would return there again.
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher
New York, New York
I wanted you to know that I am back...at least physically, but not spiritually. And to say thanks...what a lovely place! It was really peaceful, interesting, well located...just great! I rented a car and saw a lot of the surrounding towns which was really delightful. Alberto was very warm and gracious - as was all his staff - and made me feel very welcomed.
J. Glasser
Boston, Massachusetts
Thank you for having given us the opportunity to stay in such a beautiful villa. My experience at Villa Savarese was probably one of my most pleasant and memorable experiences I've had in all my travels. From the accommodations to the people, it was better than staying with family....my only regret was that we only stayed 2 days!
Angela Palmieri Dolce Vita Magazine Vaughan,
Ontario, Canada
Lauren; Last week my husband and I were in Rome and he had his cooking class w/Eugenio Rossi and I wanted to let you know he had a wonderful day!!! He really enjoyed himself and I wanted to share this with you. Everything went beautifully.
Thanks so much!
My trip to Palazzo Orsini was more than I could have imagined-really terrific. It was was great. The area is remarkable; small hilltop villages forgotten by time and not yet spoiled with excessive tourists. Also known as the Sabina olive oil area where olive oil has been made since 800 BC, it is the only area in Italy that has the D.O.P. rating for the highest quality olive oil (and it's excellent!!) Toffia is a wonderful walled town with the typical church which dominates the skyline and town. The bar where the townsfolk gather and where we had breakfast every day has the typical old and young patrons- no-one seems to work.
I suggest that one of the great parts of the experience is that we were blended with locals during the week; artists, cooks, ,... There was local entertainment, as well. I definitely will recommend to others that they do the "Cooking In Sabina's Countryside" experience.
John Rea Marietta,
Georgia
Our Lemon Lifestyles program with you in Positano was incredible. It was wonderful. We did not want to leave. The villa is perched high above the pastel city, with a panoramic view of the Amalfi Coast. The cooking classes were well organized, fun and best of all we have been able to make them all at home.
Charles Cohen
Boston, Massachusetts
Staying at Villa Ortaglia was dream-like. Maria the chef, and Terenzio, the villa's owner took care of our every need. The cooking classes, set in their Tuscan kitchen were excellent. We learned how to make Crostini Toscani, Fegatini (liver pâté), Pici all'Aglione, Ribollita, Fiorentina, a unique Tuscan meat, and wonderful desserts. Her Tiramisu and Cantucci recipes are the best. Cannot wait to go back.
Corinne Preteur
New York, New York
Cooking with Mamma Agata was not only fun, but very constructive, as we learned how to cook authentic Neapolitan recipes that I can now make at home. Mamma made us feel right at home in her Ravello villa. After we prepared squash flowers gently fried in a light batter, three different pastas, Mamma's world-famous lemon chicken, and lemon cake, everyone ate the fruits of their labor outside under the arbor overlooking the sea. It was magic and Mamma was a love.
J. Maury
Toronto, Canada
I just wanted to let you know that we had a wonderful time in Sicily, the highlight of which was my two days at Villa Siciliana. Donna Antonia Giuliano (Natoli) is an absolute sweetheart. Thank you for your kind assistance in helping me organize my own “cooking vacation,” particularly on relatively short notice. The villa is a gem.
Pete Rosanthal
New York, New York
I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for everything you did to make the cooking class such a success. The "cooks" had a great time preparing and we all had a great time eating. The Chef's were very pleasant and friendly, the cleaning staff was great and the owner of the Villa was a lot of fun!!
I wanted to thank you again for making it such a success.
I. Cremer and B. Orlander
Orlando, New Jersey
Ciao! Lauren we had the best vacation of our lives! We can't wait to go back next year, we of course would visit Venice first and then go to Positano. The cooking was unbelievable.
Steve and I have traveled through Europe and the U.S. and have been afforded many beautiful sights, people, and customs. However, we have never felt this way about any place except for Martha's Vineyard. Our Lemon Life-Styles experience was magical! I was so sad to leave, kinda like taking the Islander and pulling away from Vineyard Haven. We have already recommended this trip to a few friends.
S. Shands,
NY.
“The best of the best. Great cooking, beautiful properties and the nicest people in the world. Once you go, you will want to go back again.”
Chow Hounds at 107FM
Your beautiful home at Villa Ortaglia & the Tuscany landscape beauty are surpassed only by your wonderful and sincere hospitality! Thank you for your kindness!
Sincerely, A. & E. Banez Electra,
Texas
Thank you so much for your hospitality at Villa Ortaglia. You have a beautiful home & we will treasure the memories of our stay here. You made us feel like we never left home. Mille Grazie!
From E. & A. Pacho Manila,
Philippines
Ciao! I had a wonderful time here at Ortaglia. Because of your warm hospitality, great cooking and beautiful home you made my first trip in Tuscany a memorable one. Hope to be able to visit Ortaglia again in the future. I wish you more happiness and success.
Cheers, D. Pacho Manila,
Philippines
We really enjoyed our stay here at Ortaglia. The way you treat us like one of the family. We wish we could spend more time here.
God Bless... M. & E.
Santiago Fort Lee, New Jersey, USA
Thank you for the pasta class in Rome, Mum was incredibly happy with her birthday present, as was I. Thanks very much,
A. Bradley
London, England
Just wanted to write you a quick note to say we had a wonderful time on our trip (wish we could have stayed longer !) Everyone was very friendly and helpful and made our time in Italy special and something we will always remember. Thanks for your help!
Ron & Sharon
CT
Our chef Robert in Sicily was wonderful, experienced and charming. Thanks again for your assistance.
F. Finn.
California
This is the best trip I have been on in a long long time. The weather is beautiful, and Letizia has done such a wonderful job on the hotel. Really, she has made it so that it seems you are living here like the local people. I will come back here again definitely.
Her cook is amazing! She has no formal chef training, but has been cooking recipes in the traditional way, and learned from her grandmother and mother, etc. I highly recommend this vacation to anyone who wants a true experience of how it is done in a traditional southern Italian home! So far, I have had 3 cooking lessons and another one this evening in a Trullo at Letizia's home. The whole cooking experience has been perfect! I need to learn Italian!
I have many pictures and will definitely send them to you soon. I will be staying here an extra day until the 12th of September. The old town Conversano is beautiful, so many churches and history. The town is quiet, which is exactly what I was looking for.
The staff is so nice and helpful, it is like being with family or good friends every day. I cannot say enough about how wonderful Mari Elena is. To sound selfish, I hope Corte in Puglia does not get too touristic. I could stay here and be quite comfortable for the rest of the time I am in Europe ...Thank you so much for recommending this place
P. D’Alesio
CT, USA
Lauren, I've been meaning to send you this email and to inform you my experience at in Umbria far exceeded my expectations. Rosa is a fabulous, old world cook who instructed me in Italian and from whom I learned new Umbrian recipes, which do not exist in my region, Piemonte. Going there was an ideal location in which to experience their comfortable lifestyle. Everyone was congenial and I had opportunities to meet and mingle with some of the guests. I truly recommend and have recommended this to my friends in the United States. It not only is a good place to go for cooking instructions, but also to simply go on a vacation to relax for a week or so. The accommodations were more than adequate and the special guided tours Beatriz took me on were unique and meaningful. I would not change one thing about my experience.
M.F.
Rome USA
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit with Fabrizio at the Forconi Estate in Tuscany and thank you again!
G. Pizzaro
C.A.
Hi,
Yes Lauren we loved the cooking class and will recommend the experience to anyone vacationing in Rome. We have some shots I will forward. I've already incorporated some of what he taught us to tweak the dishes I'm used to making. Now we must redo the kitchen so I can safely set food on fire. That is great fun.
Eugenio is such a nice man and a total joy to be around.
Thank you and Eugenio so much.
Sincerely, Patricia
Hi Lauren, We had a terrific time in Italy. Leslie and I both lost our Mothers during the last year, so the trip in part was to honor our mothers and begin to heal. The trip was enormously helpful to us both, it served the intended purpose as well as provided a huge number of great experiences. We thoroughly enjoyed Lemon Lifestyles and appreciate everyone’s substantial efforts on our behalf.
The Villa was wonderful! Cooking was a blast and Leslie thoroughly enjoyed her lessons with Pasquale.
We would highly recommend the experience to others! It was great meeting you Lauren, please keep us posted on other travel opportunities Cooking Vacations has to offer.
Take Care, Lois Cameron,
Hi Lauren,
Just a quick note on my trip--it was fantastic and Fabrizio made my birthday truly special. I will never forget it. He really is a little treasure of a person and went above and beyond for me. I am e-mailing the English couple, Nigel and Sarah (what a HOOT they were!) who were on their honeymoon to try to get photos; they were the ones with the dig. camera. They told me they're on this trip for nine weeks (must be nice!), so it might be some time before they got anything to me. Thanks again Lauren, and if you have dates or anything for Positano, PLEASE let me know...
Angela
We had a good time making pizza. The evening started with Chef Eugenio giving us a little history on pizza at the table of his restaurant. We then watched as his pizza-maker made a pizza while we watched and Chef Eugenio explained the process. When the example pizza was made, we went back to the table and ate it. It was delicious. As a family, we all sat down and enjoyed our pizzas with soft drinks and wine. The kitchen also provided us with some nice grilled vegetables sent from the "boss". After dinner, we got to pose for a picture with the chef. We finished our meal with ice cream.
It was a fun experience and a nice change from all of the busy sightseeing in Rome. The pizza was great and the chef was very hospitable.
Mike H
THANKS, we had a great time. Chef Rossi was very nice, we and our daughter had a great time with him. The location was great and the apt fine so all worked out very well.
We went to the same little restaurant place every morning (since 1836) I think and it was great to be able to get to everything in no time. We cooked our favorite saltimbocca,,, Siggy our daughter said she couldn't care less about the Vatican, and the other old rusty buildings, but she loved the cooking and couldn't get enough of that. hopefully we get to do this again sometime.
Thanks a lot, all the best Sigga
Even though I am back in my office, my heart is in Positano. The villa is amazing...great location, the view was amazing..and the suites are fully equipped with lush furniture, a fully stocked kitchen, marble baths, and a wide terrace. Once I have my vacation time set-I am coming back to your lovely little town.
I made nice friends in the classes and everyone had the chance to roll out gnocchi and stuff ravioli. We had a special cooking class with a visiting Ex. Chef who showed us his technique for stuffing giant orange Italian squash flowers. He was an artist in his preparation. We ate a basket of the golden fried treasures with great Fiorduva. A great local white wine~thanks for your recommendation. The wonderful restaurant you took us too in the small cove was so characteristic,...cannot stop thinking about that famous pastry shop- that special Amalfi dessert-eggplant drenched in chocolate and orange was a treat. The chef came rolling out with the just-made desserts and passed around samples for all. I must say, I had taken another cooking program years ago, but your personal touch and presence on site made a big difference.
Gina C. NY, NY
I had a wonderful evening with Fabrizio and Sandra! What a beautiful property, and of course the surrounding countryside was "to die for." Tasting the fresh olive oil and wines was a great experience.
Dinner was excellent - I will have lots of good material, and photos, to work with as I prepare articles for the Packet. Fabrizio and Sandra were wonderful hosts, and you were so kind to arrange this for me and my nephew - he loved making gnocchi with pumpkin suace.
With thanks, and deep appreciation, Faith
Faith Bahadurian
Food Ink
I am back, a week goes by so fast.
How lucky you are to be such a magical place –Positano-, your enthusiasm is contagious.
I hope to hear from you. Also, I would love the biscotti, cookie and swordfish recipes.
All my best,
Susie J Carolina
Lauren-the trip was fantastic. Everything went as planned. Rome and Naples were great. All the pick-ups were as planned. The two cooking experiences were great, each very different from the other. Both well done and informative. We loved Positano and Ravello. Both hotels were spectactular. The places were beautiful and the service was first class. Thought that Sorrento was very ordinary. Pompeii was fascinating and we had an excellent guide. We got to Sicily easily and loved Toarmina and Syracusa. Our last day in Rome was fine and we got home without difficulty. All in all it was a wonderful three weeks.
Thanks for all your help
-Jean Haddad
Hi, Lauren. Thanks for keeping in touch. We had such a good time that we're still talking about it to all our friends. I'll figure out how to EMAIL you a picture of me and Fabrizio drinking Belinis.
R. Morrell
Merry Christmas Lauren!
Thanks for arranging so many things for our trip last minute. We had a fabulous time. We particularly loved Alberio, Antonio, and her name escapes me - your friend the Pompeii tour guide. We also had a fantastic Slow Foods dinner with Paula and Natalie and their husbands at the Hotel Palazzo Murat. It was wonderful to be able to do so many truly local things and meet so many new friends.
Yancy Mississippi
The cooking class was incredible in Tusany--Fabrizio, Simonetta and the whole crew are fantastic! Loved it. Thank you for taking such good care of him, we look forward to working with you for future trips.
Thanks again,
Sue Twin Travel
The holiday was one of the best I've had. Would highly recommend it to anyone. If i had the choice of Tuscany or Cuneo - I would return to Cuneo. Not only is the cuisine interesting, but Cuneo being less of a tourist destination is more authentic. Giorgio and Stefania were brillliant. They even invited me to their home for champagne. And the chef's, Marc and his wife Amy were a real delight. I will keep in touch with all these people. I have very high standards and have dined and stayed in a lot of the best restaurants/hotels around the world, and as an overall experience vs value for money, the programme Giorgio put together was terrific.
Thanks again Lauren for all your help.
Cheers Julie-Ann New York, NY
Marissa thoroughly enjoyed all of her cooking classes ( and I thoroughly enjoyed eating all the great meals ). Marissa said she would love to come back to the Amalfi coast to live some day. We can see why both of you live there... it is a magnificent place. We actually looked forward to all the bus rides between Amalfi and Positano to see the wonderful views. Please feel free to count on us as references as satisfied customers for your cooking vacations. It was a great experince for both of us.
Best Regards,
Tim and Marissa Nechvatal
Dear All,
It was so great to spend time with you in one of the world's most beautiful spots. I had such a lovely vacation and you all were an important part of what made it so much fun.
I hope that those of you who had the great pleasure of visiting other cities after Positano, had lots of adventures and I look forward to hearing about them. For myself, I am back to work and trying to adjust my sleep pattern. I'm hanging on to my vacation as much as I can, even to the extent of cooking a dinner last night. Lauren and Melody, please extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who welcomed us into their kitchens. It was a unique experience and a great privilege.
Pictures to follow as soon as I upload them.
Best to you all,
Liz NYNY
I had a WONDERFUL time on my Cooking Vacation with you all. Thank you for everything. I will forward photos once I get caught up with my "real life" here at home. I hope I can return for another Cooking Vacation with you all soon. Thank you for the Acqua Pazza recipe. It was the best fish dish I can recall eating!
Mary Beth
Please accept my sincere thanks for a very lovely week in Positano. We enjoyed our cooking experiences and hope to make some of those wonderful recipes at home. Tell Melody the same. We especially enjoyed Antonio and Mama Rosa so you can tell them how terrific they are.
Sincerely, Helen
NY, NY
Lauren,
How wonderful! I saw this just before I left for Italy on March 20th. I had a rewarding cooking experience and I was also able to see much of the Amalfi/Positano/Sorrento/Ravello area and I plan to return next year. I loved being in Italy during the "off season". It was valuable to see these areas for myself and I'm so glad that I took your advice and stayed in Positano. The views and ambience was much more enjoyable than the hustle and bustle of Sorrento. I liked being in Sorrento . . . but only for a few hours. :-)
Congratulations on the article. I am a fan of Elizabeth Berg's work!
Julie
