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"Il Calcione is wonderful!"
After the events of September 11th here in the United States, many of our friends and family were questioning our decision to go forward with our much-anticipated trip to Italy. But my husband Eric and I both agreed that we did not want to let such senseless acts of violence rule our lives
We would certainly not be looking for trouble, but we were not going to alter our plans. We had been warned about longer waiting periods, lines and searches.
We flew California to Chicago to Milan on September 26th and found the warnings to be true. However, we were comforted that these minor inconveniences made for a safer journey. Our American passports were received no differently than those of the Germans, British or Australians we met in our travels. We experienced no anti-American sentiment what so ever.
Eric and I travel to experience new cultures, food, music and ways of life. We do not expect an "American breakfast" or circumstances like we have at home. If that was what we wanted, we would have spent our vacation in San Francisco or New Orleans. We wanted Italy. And that, in all its glory, was what we got!
Olivella, we loved your country with its warm and friendly people, beautiful sights and antiquities, romantic views and fabulous food and wine.
Il Calcione is wonderful! The property itself is beautiful. Rolling fields, Olive trees, lush woods. Our visit was in the Fall and the trees were just beginning to turn color. Our apartment (Casa de Lecci) was roomy and had all the necessary amenities. (Although we did add a new, sharp knife to the kitchen utensils...). The pool looked wonderfully inviting, but as the weather was a bit chilly, we passed. Maybe we'll come back when its swimming weather... We made good use of the fireplace - made the living room really cozy. Especially the Sunday that it rained so hard and we never left the house! Eric and I shared many a star-filled night and a glass of vino rosso on the balcony. What a beautiful view across the valley!
The location was just right for our daily jaunts into the country - day-trips to Deruta for pottery and Assisi for inspiration. We visited Montepulciano and found wonderful Vino Nobile! (If you see a 1997, let us know!). Others we spoke to made trips to Venice, Rome and Florence. Our initial drive down from Florence took only an hour.
Your visitors should not miss the restaurants La Badessa in near-by Monte San Savino, nor L'Amorosa in near-by Sinalunga. Both had spectacular food. L'Amorosa was perfect for a romantic dinner with my husband for his birthday! Sinalunga, a quick 10 minute drive down the road, has a great grocery store with all the necessities.
Eric and I were very happy with our stay in Italy and particularly our stay at Il Calcione. We share your web-site with all who ask about our trip. We're already plotting to return with several friends - Maybe San Giuseppe is in our future?
Please feel free to share my e-mail address. I would love to share my impression and experiences of both Il Calcione and of Italy.
My best to you and your family.
Sincerely,
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