The unplanned moments are the treasured moments that become indelible memories. How special it was to be hugged by my son when we crossed paths on the island of Ortigia in Sicily. For two months we had both been in and out of Rome five times, always missing each other by one day, as Sam travelled throughout Europe in his role as a Tour Leader.

Every day we talk, sometimes a fleeting call to check all is okay, and other times a conversation to share stories and frustrations!

Seven tours this year have come to an end. I’m on a train from Venice to Stresa in Lake Maggiore, trying not to be distracted by the passing landscape through the window. Autumn days have turned crisp and fresh, but the sun is shining and it’s the perfect time to explore new places.

Train time is good reflection time. I am often asked what is my favourite part of Italy, but that is impossible to answer. Every town, every province and every region offers incredible history, culture, food and landscapes. All different.

Italy has it all, but it’s not always about the beautiful places, the food or the famous monuments you photograph. It’s the little moments, connections, conversations with complete strangers and the emotions. It is also the Italian lifestyle because Italians prioritise the important things in life - family, food, tradition, daily rituals and the ability to slow down and appreciate the small things.

Yesterday I visited Burano because I love the coloured houses and the canals lined with boats. All who have travelled on a Ciao Italy tour know that I’m very particular in choosing where we eat. I cringe at any red flags that shout touristy places. The Trattoria that I chose was founded in the early seventies as a ‘bar cichetteria’ by Primo and Paolo. Both fell under the spell of two charming and beautiful sisters from Burano and decided to settle on the island.

After a decade of experience, they fulfilled their dream of showcasing their culinary skills by using exclusively the finest, seasonal ingredients from the Burano lagoon. They revived ancient flavours that once only the skilled hands of local women knew how to create.

During the first decade of the 2000s, Paolo and Ornella evolved the traditional dining experience to keep pace with changing times whilst keeping the island’s authentic flavours alive. This was made possible by the strong bond with their daughters, Rossella, Nora and Diletta, who, embracing the concept of family and tradition, now delight their guests in the restaurant.

I met all three sisters, but it was Nora that I talked to the most, who claimed she was the ‘black sheep’ sister. Not sure why. She was an absolute delight, so warm and friendly, incredibly proud of her island and in love with her life on Burano.

I have one more story to share with you. People love to warn you about pickpockets in Naples. Even our driver on our private transfer from Puglia to Naples said to be careful.

One couple about to start the Sicily tour caught a taxi from Napoli Centrale to meet me at our accommodation. The taxi had left when they realised a bag with an ipad had been left in the car, with no possible way to contact the taxi company.

Within half an hour the driver had phoned Reception to ask if anyone had left a bag in his car. He had no hotel name, only the street and the number, but had gone to the trouble of looking up the address to find the name of the accommodation. Another ten minutes and he was back with the bag. I love the people of Naples.

I have so much to be grateful for. An idea born in 2009 changed my life, although I didn’t know it at the time. To find a passion that becomes a career and a lifestyle is the ultimate way to live my life.

The journey is as exciting and joyful as the day I began. Actually, it’s better. Better because of all the wonderful people I have met who have chosen to travel with me on a Ciao Italy tour; better because of the beautiful friendships with local Italians that have become strong over the years and better because of learning so much about Italy.

Most important, though, are the moments in time, scattered days and time pre and post tours in March and November spent with my son somewhere in Italy.

The journey continues and I can’t wait for the next season! All of the tours and dates are on the website. For full itineraries, email me at [email protected]

Ci vediamo la prossima settimana.

Deb