Andiamo Specialty Travel, Inc. in Houston, TX | Travel Agents

Having someone who speaks the language is always a great help when traveling in a foreign country, but not reason enough to give up your dream itinerary or spend a lot of extra money. I can offer experiences that are difficult to arrange on your own - visits to wineries large and small, cooking classes, day trips to sights off the beaten track, designer outlet shopping, language lessons, spa days. Most importantly, you'll experience the Italian culture, not tourist traps. I can also arrange physically active days - biking, boating, horseback riding, hiking. My company is small and flexible!
I have traveled many places in Italy that aren't included in sample AST itineraries. If you have other areas of interest, just ask! The activities offered in the itineraries are just a small crosssection of what AST can arrange.
If you have a group that would like to visit Italy, I can design the trip to fulfill your dreams! I'll work with you to find accommodations to suit your needs and budget.
Traveling with children is no problem. Italy can be fun and educational for the whole family. No more sacrifices! The days are planned to let children and parents have separate activities on most days. The kids will be having fun under the watchful eyes of our staff while the adults participate in their own events. I work with clients to fix an itinerary suitable for the children's ages. Babysitting will be available on certain nights.
Our cooking classes are taught by Chef Giuseppina Pizzolato, who runs a very successful catering business from her family's vineyard near Certaldo, Tuscany. Giuseppina travels to Houston each February to teach cooking classes and cater private dinners. Whenever possible, we begin the cooking class with a trip to a local market. Classes are always "hands on" with the emphasis on fun! Recipes are chosen for their flavor and for a high probability that you'll try them at home. Every student gets personal attention! You'll use all five senses to understand how to choose the best ingredients, to prepare the recipes and to serve the dishes.
Every region of Italy has its own varieties of delicious wine. When logistics allow, we visit the vineyards, see how the wine is made, then taste the products. We have access to a broad range of vineyards - from large exporters to small, family-run farms. On the Southern Sampler trip, we have a wine tasting dinner conducted by a restaurant owner who is also a sommelier. Visitors in late September and early October may have the opportunity to join in the Vendemmia - the annual grape harvest!