The enthusiastic cook and pizza chef were much appreciated, though the friends often dined out too at a number of nearby Slow Food-focused “trattorie”. Excursions were to Siena, Montalcino, Pienza and Montepulciano, as well as to local markets, festivities and smaller villages. Renting a house of their own was not only wonderfully restful, but it allowed them to feel they had gotten a real sense for what it might be to live in Italy. Florence provided an immersion into art, architecture and classical music, while Como was an idyllic beginning to a well-paced trip. David Westgor: The value of what you do is incalculable. This was the best vacation of our lives.