F L AV O U R S C o o k i n g ’s j u s t t h e h a l f o f i t !
Cooking’s just the half of it! Our latest brochure features a fantastic range of cookery holidays in Italy; the Italian way of cooking, the use of local ingredients and the key element of simplicity are integral to a Flavours’ holiday. With the wonderful Mediterranean climate providing the sunny backdrop what’s not to enjoy about spending time savouring la dolce vita! Increasingly popular are our Pilates holidays – these give both the mind and body the chance to relax and unwind in either Sicily or Tuscany. Whilst those guests looking to explore their creative side can be inspired by the Italian landscape on a painting holiday. As we say Cooking’s just the half if it! Lorne Blyth Director, Flavours of Italy Ltd
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Cooking’s just the half of it! Flavours have been running cooking Holliday in Italy for over ten years, our 2010 brochure features more stunning villas and delirious destinations than ever before! Choose from exotic Puglia, sunny Sicily, classical Tuscany or even sample la dolce vita in Bologna. Share in the passion of Italian cooking with our local chefs and ethical ingredients whilst tasting new and exciting flavours in a relaxed and informal setting. All Flavours holidays have a zero single supplement policy, providing a fun and sociable atmosphere for the single traveller. Our historical villas provide a luxurious setting in the most beautiful and spectacular corners of Italy. We promise you will return home relaxed, with plenty of new recipes and new friends! page 04
On the menu... puglia The intense clear sunshine of Puglia can be tasted in the cuisine of this fascinating region. The cradle of true Mediterranean Cuisine with an emphasis on seafood, vegetables, hand-made orecchiette (a distinctive Puglian type of pasta shaped roughly like small ears), artisan mozzarella and of course the finest extra virgin olive oil. Puglia is a historic trading crossroads between Asia, North Africa and Europe, Puglian cuisine is a fusion of places and cultures.
tuscany Tuscany is world famous for food and its rich culture. Simplicity is key to Tuscan cuisine, with just a few ingredients our chefs in Tuscany create exceptional mouth watering dishes to enjoy whilst looking out over breath taking landscapes. Be sure to try locally produced Pecorino and Ricotta cheeses, rustic dishes such as rabbit, chicken with olive and rosemary, Tuscan bean soups and white truffles from San Miniato. Puglian cuisine is a fusion of places and cultures.
sicily The sunshine and sea make the Flavours of Sicily intense and exotic. A Moorish North African influence sees citrus fruits, spices, peppers and rice combined with the more Grecian broad beans, fish and olives. Every conqueror of this island has left behind the imprint of his culinary heritage. Don’t leave without trying world famous chocolate from Modica or the delicious aubergine based Pasta Alla Norma.
bologna The cuisine in Bologna is rich and indulgent.. Bologna is famous for many pasta dishes such as lasagne Verdi, tagliatelle and tortellini. The other famous export from this region, Balsamic vinegar, which comes in a huge range of varieties which you will have the chance to try at the historic Palazzo Minelli. Italians call Bologna ‘La Grassa’ – meaning the ‘the fat one’ referring to the populations high regard of good food and good wine!
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Casino Pisanelli, featured in BBC Holiday programme 2006
PUGLIA 7 nights / 8 days Price ÂŁ1599 per person No single supplement
Price includes:
Return flight from Stansted to Brindisi 7 nights accommodation at Casino Pisanelli 5 cookery lessons, all meals, wines, 3 restaurant meals, Private wine tasting Guided tour of Lecce, sight-seeing Transportation by private minibus throughout, including airport transfers
Puglia 7 nights / 8 days
£1599 per person - no single supplement page 08
Region Salento is the heart of Southern Puglia, a region with much to discover. The Cathedral in the handsome Baroque town of Otranto has a mosaic floor to rival Ravenna, while the city of Lecce has more than 40 churches and noble “palazzo” built in the 17th and 18th centuries. South of Lecce the landscape flattens and the sky opens out. Acres of olive groves extend between dry-stone walls. Blue-green sea and red cliffs combine to form a dramatic backdrop.
Venue Casino Pisanelli is a stunning venue, situated in the heart of rural Salento a real hidden gem. Originally a hunting lodge built in the 17th century for a local count, the estate is now used exclusively by Flavours for just a few weeks a year. The style is a stunning mix of traditional and modern, with wonderful formal gardens and a swimming pool - the perfect spot to relax after a busy morning in the kitchen.
Garden at Casino Pisanelli
Bedroom at Casino Pisanelli
Antonio with guests
Places limited to 8 guests per group, we recommend early booking
To book please contact us on 0800 612 6477 page 9
Itinerary SATURDAY - arrive Brindisi airport 21.00 approx, transfer by minibus to Casino Pisanelli - 1 hour. Welcome drinks and late supper. SUNDAY - after breakfast cooking followed by lunch. Afternoon visit to Santa Maria di Leuca (the village at the very tip of the Salentine Peninsula where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet). Enjoy an aperitivo before returning for dinner at Casino Pisanelli. MONDAY - after breakfast cooking with Antonio followed by lunch. Afternoon free to relax by the swimming pool or take a cycle ride to a nearby village. Dinner at Casino Pisanelli. TUESDAY - after breakfast cooking followed by lunch. In the afternoon enjoy a private wine tasting at a local winery. Return to Casino Pisanelli for dinner.
Sea view from Otranto
Lecce
WEDNESDAY - leave after breakfast for day sight-seeing, firstly to Lecce and be taken on a private walking tour around the “Florence of the South”. Time for shopping before lunch at a local trattoria. Drive to Otranto-situated by the sea, with the chance to visit the famous cathedral. Return for dinner at Casino Pisanelli. THURSDAY - after breakfast cooking lesson followed by lunch. Late afternoon visit to Gallipoli and the chance to wander around the old town. Dinner at an excellent local fish restaurant. FRIDAY - after breakfast final cookery session. Afternoon free. Farewell dinner. SATURDAY - after breakfast drive to the nearby town of Maglie to visit a local chocolate maker. Afterwards time for shopping before lunch. 18.00 approx transfer to Brindisi airport for return flight to UK. Classic Pugliese pasta - ‘orecchiette’
Puglia dates 2009
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To find out more about exotic Puglia, call us on 0800 612 6477
“ The balance of cookery, free time and excursions was just right, I am sure this won’t be the last time I take a holiday with you.” Sarah H, guest
Villa Segalato
TUSCANY - VILLA SEGELATO 3 nights / 4 days ÂŁ899 per person No single supplement 7 nights/8 days ÂŁ1499 per person No single supplement
Price includes:
Return flights from Gatwick to Pisa Accommodation at Villa Segelato Cookery lessons Visit to Lucca and/or Florence Private wine tasting Dinner at local restaurant All meals Transport throughout by private minibus
Tuscany (Villa Segalato) 3 nights / 4 days Tuscany (Villa Segalato) 7 nights / 8 days
ÂŁ899 per person - no single supplement ÂŁ899 per person - no single supplement page 12
Region TUSCANY
We have chosen this delightful part of Tuscany as our base. Lucca itself is a city which never feels touristy, enclosed by its own walls which have now been turned into an elegant 12 m high garden, perfect for a passeggiata. Almost completely closed off to traffic, the city centre has a cosmopolitan air. The cobbled streets are ideal to stroll around and window shop.
Venue Villa Segelato is situated in the hills above Lucca and is part of the private Forci Estate. This classic Tuscan villa, with wooden beams and terracotta tiles, is used exclusively by Flavours and comes complete with its own private swimming pool. From the terrace - the perfect spot to linger with an aperitivo - guests can enjoy sweeping views across the valley, dotted with ancient bell towers and olive groves.
View from Villa Segalato
Villa Segalato bedroom
Lucca
Tuscany 3 nights / 4 days
ÂŁ899 per person - no single supplement page 13
Itinerary DAY 1 - arrive Pisa airport* 15.00 approx and transfer to Villa Segelato (about 40 minutes drive). Welcome drinks followed by dinner on the terrace. DAY 2 - after breakfast enjoy a cookery lesson, lunch, afternoon visit to local winery for private tutored tasting. Return to villa Segelato for dinner. DAY 3 - after breakfast 2nd cookery lesson, lunch, followed by visit to Lucca with dinner at an excellent local restaurant. DAY 4 - after breakfast 3rd cookery lesson, lunch and depart for late afternoon flight back to UK, at 15.30. Simone
*Various regional flights to Pisa from Edinburgh, Glasgow (Prestwick), East Midlands, Bristol and Liverpool. Contact us for details.
Tuscany 3 nights / 4 days
£899 per person - no single supplement
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11th May
25th September
28th September
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29th September
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15th May
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If you would like to know more about our short breaks in Tuscany visit our website www.flavoursholidays.co.uk Interested in extending your holiday - why not spend a few extra days in Florence?
“ Simone took us passionately, and patiently through a whole raft of Tuscan recipes.” Richard Eilers, Observer Travel
Tuscany 7 nights / 8 days
ÂŁ1499 per person - no single supplement page 14
SATURDAY Arrive at Pisa airport at approx 15.00 where you will be met by your Flavours host and transfered to Villa Segalato. Welcome drinks and dinner on the terrace SUNDAY After breakfast you have your first cookery lesson followed by lunch. The afternoon is free to enjoy as you wish, with a slow food tasting in the evening before dinner MONDAY Cookery lesson after breakfast, followed by lunch. Private afternoon visit to a winery for a tasting then return to villa for dinner. TUESDAY After breakfast you have another cookery lesson followed by lunch. Afternoon visit to Lucca with a chance to wander around the walled city. Dinner is at a local trattoria
WEDNESDAY After breakfast, drive to Florence for a full day of sight-seeing at your leisure. Lunch is at a restaurant specially selected by Flavours local staff. Return to the Villa late afternoon for dinner THURSDAY After breakfast you have another cookery lesson then lunch. The afternoon is yours to relax by the pool or walk through the olive groves. Dinner is served at the Villa FRIDAY After breakfast you have your final cookery lesson, followed by lunch. Afternoon visit to coastal town of Viareggio. Final dinner at the Villa SATURDAY Depart for airport after breakfast
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If you would like to know more about our long breaks in Tuscany visit our website www.flavoursholidays.co.uk Interested in extending your holiday - why not spend a few extra days in Florence?
Fantastic surroundings, fantastic food and fantastic company - who could ask for more?� Sue - Tuscany
Villa Maria
TUSCANY - VILLA MARIA 3 nights / 4 days Price ÂŁ999 per person No single supplement 7 nights / 8 days Price ÂŁ1599 per person No single supplement
Price includes:
Return flights from Gatwick to Pisa Accommodation at Villa Segelato Cookery lessons Visit to Lucca and/or Florence Private wine tasting Dinner at local restaurant All meals Transport throughout by private minibus
Tuscany (Villa Maria) 3 nights/4 days) £999 per person - no single supplement Tuscany (Villa Maria) 7 nights/8 days) £1599 per person - no single supplement page 16
Region TUSCANY
Our villa is tucked away in the countryside on it’s own private estate close to the medievil town of San Miniato, which is well known for tuffles and other Tuscan delicassies. A short distance from the villa lies the Renaissance gem of Florence. Get lost in the tangle of ancient streets taking in the facades of its art studded churches and museums as you find them.
Venue Once in the hands of the Napoleonic dynasty and handed down through generations of noble Tuscan families this classic country home is the perfect place to cook up a storm! Used exclusively by Flavours the villa comes complete with a private pool and it’s own ancient olive grove with stunning views over the surrounding countryside. A classic example of 16th century Tuscan architecture the vaulted brick ceilings and stone walls make you feel very much part of the history of this special place, however the recent restoration has ensured that 21st century luxury is never far away!. The poolside terrace is the perfect spot to linger with an aperitvo under the Tuscan Sun!
Villa Maria
Florence
The Historic interior at Villa Maria.
Tuscany 3 nights/4 days
£999 per person - no single supplement
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Itinerary DAY 1 - Arrive Pisa airport, met by Flavours host and transfer to Villa Maria, which is situated midway between the delightful towns of Lucca and Florence. Welcome drinks and dinner. DAY 2 - Enjoy a hands-on cookery lesson with our local Flavours chef followed by lunch and time to relax by the villa’s pool. Afternoon visit to a local wine producer for private wine tasting. Dinner at the villa DAY 3 - After breakfast we have our second cooking lesson followed by lunch. In the afternoon there is a visit to Florence the world famous renaissance city. The city needs no introduction and certainly lives up to it’s reputation. The evening dinner will be at a trattoria in central Florence DAY 4 - The third and final cookery lesson takes places in the morning followed by lunch and afternoon departure back to the airport
Villa Maria
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Tuscany 7 nights / 8 days
ÂŁ1599 per person - no single supplement page 18
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Itinerary SATURDAY - Upon arrival at Pisa airport you will be met by our Flavours driver who will transfer you to Villa Maria, which is situated midway between the delightful towns of Lucca and Florence. At the villa you will enjoy a Slow Food tasting session followed by dinner.
FRIDAY - After breakfast cookery lesson followed by lunch, then a chance to relax at the villa dfor the afternoon before dinner. SATURDAY - After breakfast transfer to the airport for return flight to the UK.
SUNDAY - After breakfast cookery lesson followed by lunch. After lunch take we will go for a short walk to San Miniato followed by wine tasting which is just twenty minutes away in our private bus. MONDAY - After breakfast we will have a cookery lesson, followed by lunch. The afternoon will be at your leisure to sit by the pool or to take in the spectacular surrounding countryside. TUESDAY - After breakfast we will leave for a day sightseeing in Florence. We will meet for lunch at Fiaschetteria Palle d'Oro imagine Slow Food/Fast Food, a unique Tuscan experience! Dinner will be served back at the Villa. WEDNESDAY - After breakfast we will have a cookery lesson, followed by lunch. The afternoon will be at your leisure to relax by the pool or explore the surroundings! Villa Maria
THURSDAY - After breakfast cookery lesson followed by lunch. This afternoon we head to San Gimignano - a city of ancient towers an a lovely place to while away the afternoon. We stay in San Gimignano for dinner before returning to the villa.
SICILY 7 nights / 8 days Price ÂŁ1599 per person No single supplement
Price includes:
Return flights from Gatwick to Catania
7 nights accommodation at Villa Sicily 5 cookery lessons Visit to Modica, Siracusa and Ragusa Private wine tasting All meals including 2 meals at local restaurants Transportation by private minibus throughout
Sicily 7 nights / 8 days
£1599 per person - no single supplement page 20
Region To let you discover the flavours of Sicily we have based our venue in the south east of the island: the place where it all began. The surrounding area is dotted with well know historical sites – such as Siracusa Greek Theatre, the Temples of Agrigento and various Baroque towns such as Noto and Ragusa – as well as popular gastronomic locations such as Pachino for cherry tomatoes, Modica for chocolate, Avola for almonds and wine, Ragusa for Caciocavallo cheese. SICILY
Venue We have chosen the luxourious Villa Sicily as our venue in sunny Sicily. Owned by a local artist, the historic villa is tastefully decorated in a modern minimalist style. Encircled by olive and almond groves with a spectacular infinity pool that looks out onto the spectacular exotic landscape of this unique island. The interior is bathed in Sicilian sunlight and is decorated in fresh light tones with well placed contemporary artwork. All rooms are en-suite and there is a choice of double and twin rooms. The terrace offers a fantastic al fresco breakfast spot.
Places limited to 8 guests per group, we recommend early booking
To book please contact us on 0800 612 6477 page 21
Itinerary SATURDAY - On your arrival to Catania Airport you will be transferred to our venue, Villa Sicliy, which takes about one hour. There we will have a welcoming aperitif waiting for you, followed by dinner. SUNDAY - After breakfast, you will have your first cooking lesson followed by lunch. Then in the afternoon we have a visit to Noto, the most beautiful baroque village in Sicily, actually the most beautiful baroque village in Italy! Dinner is served back at the villa in the evening. MONDAY - After breakfast you have another lesson with the cook, followed by lunch. The afternoon is spent relaxing at the villa. At the end of the day we have dinner at the villa. TUESDAY - After breakfast we head out for the day to visit the cities of Ragusa and Modica. Where you get to explore and enjoy the atmosphere of these delightful cities and take in a typical fish market. We have lunch out in one of the many lovely restaurants in Ragusa and then continue on to the city of Modica. At the end of the day we return to the villa to enjoy dinner.
WEDNESDAY - A treat is in store for you after breakfast when you have a cooking lesson with an old Sicilian Mamma who will let you in on some of her cooking secrets. After lunch we visit a local vineyard for a private wine tasting Dinner is served again back at the villa. THURSDAY - You have your fourth cooking lesson with the cook after breakfast, followed by lunch. Then in the afternoon we visit the city of Siracusa and dine out we will also taste artisan riccota cheese from near by Donnafugata. FRIDAY - After breakfast you have a lesson in restaurant, which is situated on the port of Portopalo. The lesson will be based on fish. Weather permitting, we will select the fish from the fisherman in the port. then have lunch in the restaurant followed by the afternoon free to enjoy at your own leisure. Back at the villa, for your last night with us, we have a scaccia party with the old Sicilian Mamma...(A scaccia - is similar to an Italian Pizza, but done the Sicilian way). SATURDAY - After an early breakfast you will be transferred to the airport to get your 8.40 a.m. flight back to Gatwick.
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Saturday 8th May
Saturday 8th May
Saturday 15th May
Saturday 15th May
Saturday 22nd May
Saturday 22nd May
Saturday 29th May
Saturday 29th May
Saturday 5th June
Saturday 5th June
Saturday 12th June
Saturday 12th June
Saturday 19th June
Recommended by the Sunday Times Travel as a top holiday for single travellers.
BOLOGNA 3 nights / 4 days May - September Price ÂŁ849 per person No single supplement
Price includes:
Return flight from Gatwick to Bologna Marconi * 3 nights accommodation at private villa 2 cookery lessons Guided tour Bologna food market Breakfast daily, 3 dinners and 2 lunches with wine Transportation by private minibus including airport transfers * Regional flights can be arranged
Bologna 3 nights / 4 days
ÂŁ849 per person - no single supplement page 24
Region BOLOGNA
Bologna is a fantastic place to visit with an excellent food market in the city centre, and some seriously good delicatessens to shop in. It was once “the city of a hundred towers� and although there are now only two still standing, there are a host of churches, and galleries to explore. Food lovers will enjoy the visit to the gourmet Mercato di Mezzo - a covered market, brimming with charm and atmosphere, offering an authentic Italian gastronomic experience.
Venue Our Villa deep in the heart of the Emilia Romagna countryside is delightful. Recently restored to make the best use of the period features, and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The swimming pool is ideal for an afternoon dip.
Pasta - making lesson
Places limited to 8 guests per group, we recommend early booking
To book please contact us on 0800 612 6477 page 25
Itinerary FRIDAY - arrive Bologna Macroni airport 18.00 approx. Transfer to Villa for welcome drinks and dinner. SATURDAY - after breakfast at Villa drive the short distance into Bologna city centre and enjoy a guided walking tour around the city’s food market. Buy some fantastic parmesan cheese or famous mortadella ham. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to sight-see and shop before returning late afternoon to Villa for dinner. SUNDAY - after breakfast enjoy your first cookery lesson, learn the secret of perfect pasta with our local cook and of course no cookery lesson in Bologna will be complete without making a classic Bolognese ragu! After a leisurely lunch time to relax before dinner.
Bologna
MONDAY - after breakfast it’s back to the kitchen for another cookery lesson followed by lunch. Transfer to the airport late afternoon for return flight to Gatwick at 18.45.
Bologna dates 2009
£849 per person - no single supplement
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Friday 21st August
Monday 24th August
Friday 4th September
Monday 7th September
Friday 18th September
Monday 21st September
Friday 25th September
Monday 28th September
“ The trip was well organised and suited all levels. I went on my own but left with new friends, a full belly and a love of Italy.” Melissa Loveday, House Beautiful Magazine
What our guests say...
“I enjoyed one of the best holidays of my life in Tuscany.The blend of cooking knowledge, history, shopping, wine tasting and outright fun was really excellent!� David, Tuscany, 2009 "Staff all fab!Everything was really quite perfect including the weather!" Karyn, Sicily, 2009 "Flavours is a recipe for success!" Karen, Puglia, 2009 "All in all, a great experience. Simone and Livia were great hosts, food and accommodation were great. Company was excellent and the group gelled straight away" Dorothy, Sicily, 2008
To see more Flavours testimonials visit our website... www.flavoursholidays.co.uk/testimonials page 28
Painting holidays in Tuscany & Sicily Flavours Italian painting holidays are led by Penelope Anstice, an established artist and experienced teacher who trained at institutions in Florence and Edinburgh. Having lived in Italy, Penelope’s work really captures the magic of the Italian landscape. Our painting holidays are suitable for all abilities and are as much about relaxation and real Italian culture as developing your skills as an artist. With a group size capped at eight guests, our painting holidays are a great chance to widen your artistic abilities! ‘It is the intensity of landscape and people that attracts me and compels a desire to record a moment before it has disappeared.’ Penelope Anstice, Artist page 30
PAINTING IN TUSCANY Tuscany Painting Course Itinerary Price includes:
This is a good course for anyone wishing to begin painting in watercolour or for those already with some basic knowledge of the medium. All important elements of watercolour will be looked at and there will be plenty of demonstrations and help with the technicalities of this difficult but fascinating medium.
Return flights from Gatwick to Pisa 7 nights accommodation at Villa Maria 5 days painting tuition Dinner at a local restaurant Full day visit to Florence Afternoon in Lucca Various drawing excursions Private Minibus transport throughout All Meals and Wine Return Airport transfers
Venue - see page XX for more on your venue Dating back to the beginning of the 18th Century, Villa Maria is an ancient property of the Bonaparte family and was once in the hands of the Napoleonic dynasty!. Recently subtly restored, Villa Maria is ideally placed at the foot of San Miniato, a historic village full of monuments and cultural activities, and famous for the production of white truffles. Situated in wonderful gardens with a swimming pool surrounded by rich, relaxing and evocative natural scenery. Ancient olive groves and green meadows make for an ambient mix of shadows and quiet places: the perfect place to relax and inspire the body and mind!
Painting dates - 7 nights / 8 days
ÂŁ1499 per person - no single supplement page 32
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Itinerary SATURDAY - Arrive at Pisa airport and transfer to the Villa for welcome drinks followed by dinner. SUNDAY - After breakfast you will have an introduction to watercolour looking at basic techniques, different kinds of paper, brushes etc. There will be a demonstration in how to do quick sketches in the medium. The afternoon is free to enjoy as you wish. Dinner will be at the villa. MONDAY - There will be a demonstration of landscape painting after breakfast, looking at the different ways in which to apply watercolour and the mixing of other media like pastel and coloured pencil. Following lunch there will be an afternoon visit to a private painting location for you to try out the techniques. In the evening we will have a critique of the work so far, followed by dinner. TUESDAY - After breakfast there will be a lesson in the elements of composition and colour and the chance to experiment further with the medium. Following lunch, an afternoon visit to Lucca with an opportunity to sketch. Dinner at the villa. WEDNESDAY - Today we take a trip to Florence for a full day of gallery visits at your leisure and meet for lunch at a traditional trattoria. Before dinner we will have an evening discussion of the work so far and a look at some examples of traditional and contemporary watercolour painting. THURSDAY - A chance today to try a larger and more ambitious work using the sketches and ideas accumulated so far. This will take up the large part of the day with a break for lunch on the terrace. In the latter part of the afternoon we will visit a local vineyard and the evening will be spent in Lucca with dinner at a local restaurant. FRIDAY - After breakfast we will look at the work so far with a critique on progress and a chance to continue the work in and around the villa. For the rest of your last day you are free to continue painting, to relax by the pool or go walking. Dinner will be at the villa and we will have a group show of the work created during the week. SATURDAY - Depart for the airport after breakfast
PAINTING IN SICILY Sicily Painting Course Itinerary Price includes:
This course will have an emphasis on watercolour but with a chance to try other combined media, like acrylic, pastel, gouache and pencil. We will draw inspiration from the landscape and your tutor will be able to help you with all elements of drawing, composition and colour. There will also be ample chance to develop sketch-book techniques on the various trips we make around the area.
Return flights from Gatwick to Catania 7 nights accommodation at Villa Sicily 5 days painting tuition 2 Meals at a local restaurant Visit to Modica, Siracusa and Ragusa Various drawing excursions Private Minibus transport throughout All Meals and Wine Return Airport transfers
Venue - see page xx for more on your venue New for 2009 our exclusive Italian painting holidays offer the perfect balance of expert tuition, inspiring surroundings and fantastic food! We have chosen the luxurious Villa Sicily to host our Sicilian painting courses. Encircled by olive and almond groves Villa Sicily offers modern chic interior design blended with traditional Sicilian architecture. The infinity pool offers guests the perfect place to relax and unwind whether you’ve been painting or sketching in sunny Sicily. The bedrooms are each decorated in a unique modern style and are en-suite. Each room has a view of the sea, almond groves or the Sicilian countryside.
Painting dates - 7 nights / 8 days
£1599 per person no single supplement page 34
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From Saturday 15th May Saturday 22nd May Saturday 5th June Saturday 12th June
To Saturday 22nd May Saturday 29th May Saturday 12nd June Saturday 19th June
Itinerary SATURDAY - On your arrival to Catania Airport you will be transferred to our venue, Villa Sicliy, which takes about one hour. There we will have a welcoming aperitif waiting for you, followed by dinner. SUNDAY - After breakfast we will have an introductory session and a demonstration of watercolour painting. Lunch will follow and then in the afternoon we make a sketching and research visit to Noto, the most beautiful baroque village in Sicily. Dinner will be served back at the villa. MONDAY - After breakfast there will be a demonstration in landscape painting and the elements of good composition. Lunch will follow and the afternoon is spent enjoying a wine tasting at Felice Modica estate in Bufalefi. The grounds and house of the estate, which have been preserved in 18th century Sicilian style, provide wonderful scope for wandering and sketching. We will meet back at the villa to discuss the day’s artwork. Dinner will follow. TUESDAY - After breakfast we head out for the day to visit the cities of Ragusa and Modica. Here you can explore and enjoy the atmosphere of these delightful cities! We have lunch out in one of the many lovely restaurants in Ragusa and then continue on to the city of Modica. At the end of the day we return to the villa to enjoy dinner. Our Blog has a great guide to the city of Modica, if you would like to know more. WEDNESDAY - In the morning we move onto the development of larger scale pieces using water-based paints and mixed media. After lunch we visit the small fishing village of Marzamemi with its Tonnara (ruined tuna fishing station) taking our paints to record the busy scenes. Back at the villa we will have a critique of the work so far, followed by dinner. THURSDAY - In the morning we will explore basic colour principles and their use in landscape painting and the rest of the morning will be spent around the villa with a chance to try new subjects or work further on existing paintings. In the afternoon we visit the city of Siracusa and dine out. FRIDAY - After breakfast we head to Portopalo, a small local port. Another great chance here for quick, observational sketches in watercolour, with lunch in a local restaurant The afternoon is free for you to paint at your leisure. Back at the villa, we will have a show of the week’s work and a scaccia party with the old Sicilian Mamma (A scaccia is similar to an Italian Pizza but done the Sicilian way) SATURDAY - After an early breakfast you will be transferred to the airport to get your 8.40 a.m. flight back to Gatwick.
Pilates holidays in Tuscany & Sicily Flavours Pilates holidays in Italy are the perfect balance of la dolce vita and Pilates. We’ve decided to team up with Pilates Works, who teach the body control technique. Flavours Pilates holidays are suitable for all abilities and we guarantee you will be stretched and toned under the Italian sun, returning home relaxed and rejuvenated. ‘Your Pilates Works who will review your core stability and strength and provide all the equipment necessary to assist and challenge you and provide you with an exercise sheet to take away with you to continue what you have learnt.’ Ben Brown, PilatesWorks
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PILATES IN TUSCANY Pilates Itinerary Price includes:
Flavours have teamed up with Pilates Works to put together a series of Pilates holidays in Italy. It's the perfect mix - daily Pilates classes with the Pilates Works instructors and cookery lessons with the Flavours cook. Tuscany is the perfect place to unwind with some alfresco classes looking out over the famous Tuscan landscape. Flavours Pilates holidays are focused on the body control technique.
Return flights departing London Gatwick 3 nights accommodation at Villa Tuscany 5 Pilates sessions 1 cookery lesson All meals – breakfast, lunch & dinner with wine Visit to Lucca Transportation throughout by private minibus
Venue - see page xx for more on your venue Dating back to the beginning of the 18th Century, Villa Maria is an ancient property of the Bonaparte family and was once in the hands of the Napoleonic dynasty! Recently subtly restored, Villa Maria is ideally placed at the foot of San Miniato, a historic village full of monuments and cultural activities, and famous for the production of white truffles. Situated in wonderful gardens with a swimming pool surrounded by rich, relaxing and evocative natural scenery. Ancient olive groves and green meadows make for an ambient mix of shadows and quiet places: the perfect place to relax and inspire the body and mind!
Pilates dates - 3 nights / 4 days
ÂŁ989 per person - no single supplement page 38
2009
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Saturday 22nd May
Tuesday 25th May
Wednesday 26th May
Saturday 29th May
Saturday 5th June
Tuesday 8th June
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Saturday 12th June
Itinerary DAY 1 - Arrive at Pisa airport and be transported to the historic Villa Maria. After you’ve had a chance to un-pack there will be a welcome lunch and drinks. After lunch you will have your first pilates lesson followed by an evening meal at the villa. DAY 2 - The day will start with a pilates session in the fresh morning sun. After the session breakfast will be served on the terrace. After breakfast you will have a traditional Tuscan cookery lesson followed by lunch at the villa. Your afternoon will be free to wander around the estate or relax by the pool. Before dinner you will have your 3rd pilates session followed by dinner at the villa. DAY 3 - The final day will start with a pilates lesson followed by breakfast on the terrace. After breakfast you will be transfered by private minibus to Lucca where you will have the remainder of the day to wander around this beautiful medieval town, which is definitely is a hidden gem in Tuscany! You will be transferred back to the villa for your final pilates lesson followed by dinner at the villa. DAY 4 - Breakfast and transfer to Pisa airport for the return flight.
PILATES IN SICILY Pilates Itinerary Price includes:
Flavours and Pilates Works have found the perfect spot in Sicily on the south east of this beautiful island for a relaxing sunshine filled Pilates course. It’s the perfect mix, daily Pilates classes with Pilates Works instructors and cookery lessons with the Flavours cooks. Flavours Pilates holidays are focused on the body control technique.
Return flights Departing London Gatwick 3 nights accommodation at Villa Sicily 5 Pilates sessions Lunch at a local restaurant Visit to Siracusa Private minibus transport throughout All meals and wines Return airport transfers
Venue - see page xx for more on your venue The villa where our Pilates holidays are held is situated in a private estate encircled by olive and almond groves. Villa Sicily offers modern chic interior design blended with traditional Sicilian architecture. Owned by a local artist, the venue offers a unique blend of minimalist Italian style and Sicilian heritage. The interior is bathed in Sicilian sunlight and the stylish bedrooms are decorated in fresh light tones with well placed contemporary artwork.
Pilates dates - 3 nights / 4 days
ÂŁ999 per person - no single supplement page 40
2009
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To
2010
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Saturday 15th May
Saturday 22nd May
Saturday22nd May
Saturday 29th May
Saturday 5th June
Saturday 12nd June
Saturday 12th June
Saturday 19th June
Itinerary SATURDAY - Arrive at 16.00 at Catania airport, transfer to venue, after settling in you will have your first Pilates lesson followed by dinner. SUNDAY - Early morning tea/fruit followed by morning pilates lesson in the sun. Lunch served on the terrace. In the afternoon. Later you are invited to a historic Sicilian villa to wander around the garden and then take a private path down to the beach for a swim. Return to the villa for a Pilates lesson before dinner. MONDAY - Early morning tea/fruit followed by a Pilates lesson. Lunch will be served at the villa. The afternoon will be free to relax before an evening Pilates lesson followed by dinner. TUESDAY - Early morning tea/fruit followed by a Pilates lesson. After breakfast visit to Siracusa, we’ll have lunch at a restaurant in Siracusa before heading to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
To Book… Booking a Flavours Italian cookery holiday is simple! In just a few easy steps you could find yourself cooking up a storm in no time at all! To check availability call us on tel: 0800 612 6477 or alternatively you can check availability online at www.flavoursholidays.co.uk You can book a holiday with us over the phone - a deposit of 40% per person is required so have your credit or debit card handy. We charge 2% on all credit card transactions. Alternatively you can send us a cheque made payable to Flavours of Italy ltd with a completed booking form (found at the back of our brochure, or download from our website) and return to Flavours of Italy, 63 Raeburn Place, Edinburgh EH4 1JF After booking you will receive a confirmation invoice from us. Full payment is required 8 weeks before the holiday departure and your final cookery holiday information is sent out approximately 3 weeks before your departure.
Save £100... If you book your own flights to Italy we will deduct £100 from the cost of the holiday! Ensure you get there on time to take advantage of our complimentary airport transfers*
Book 4 places with us and get the 5th place half price!** * If you arrive /depart outwith scheduled times you may incur an additional transfer fee to venue (please check with office for booking). ** To qualify booking must be same venue and booked at the same time.
BOOKING FORM DETAILS
Name of first passenger (as per passport)
Other passenger (as per passport)
cut along dotted line
Address
Mobile nos. Postcode Date of birth E-mail Date chosen & where
Accommodation required (please tick) twin
double
single
Names and dates of birth of other party members
Where you heard about Flavours
PAYMENT Please book
places and find enclosed ÂŁ
(40% total holiday price).
Cheques made payable to Flavours of Italy Ltd. or please debit my credit card (VISA/MASTERCARD/MAESTRO/DELTA) Card Number Start Date
Expiry Date
Security Code
Issue no.
Name on card Amount
(an additional 2% will be added for bookings by VISA/MASTERCARD)
Address for cardholder (if different)
Please debit my card (details above) including a 2% charge, with outstanding balance 8 weeks before departure or I will pay the balance by cheque yes no.
yes
no
All airlines require that names on flight tickets correspond to names on passports. We cannot be held responsible if the name given is incorrect. * INSURANCE DETAILS
In accordance with our booking terms and conditions, all persons travelling must have travel insurance (see paragraph 6 of booking terms). Please provide details of your policy below: Insurers Policy Number Contact tel no. Signed Date DECLARATION
I confirm that I have read and understood the booking conditions of "Flavours of Italy Ltd" and accept them on behalf of myself and every member of my party. Signed Date
Tel: 0800 612 6477 www.flavoursholidays.co.uk
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TERMS AND CONDITIONS The following terms and conditions shall apply in respect of all bookings and will form the basis of your contract with "Flavours of Italy Ltd".
1. All arrangements are made subject to the following terms and conditions, and the signing of the Booking Form by you or your authorised representative shall be deemed to be acceptance of an agreement to be bound by these conditions. 2. No contract exists until we have received the Booking Form properly completed, together with the appropriate deposit, and until appropriate confirmation has been issued by us. 3. A deposit of 40% per person is payable at the time of booking which will be non-refundable except in the event of the booking not being accepted by us for any reason, or if due to unforeseen circumstances we are unable to provide the course for which you have booked. 4. The balance of the price is payable in full ten weeks before departure, If the balance remains unpaid, we reserve the right to cancel the booking and retain the deposit. 5. Cancellations must be made in writing to us and must be made by the person signing the original Booking Form. Any notice will become effective from the date of receipt by us of the notice. The following cancellation charges will be levied, (i) up to 28 days prior to departure 30% of the price (ii) 27 days to 14 days prior to departure 60% of the price (iii) 13 days or less prior to departure, or on departure date, 100% of the price. 6. It is a requirement of the booking that you must arrange adequate holiday insurance. Such insurance should cover full medical expenses, personal baggage, personal accident, accident, loss or damage to property, cancellation or curtailment, personal liability, legal expenses and emergency. 7. We shall not accept responsibility for any cancellations or effect on your holiday due to war, threat of war, civil strife, industrial dispute, terrorist action, natural or nuclear disaster, fire or adverse weather conditions. 8. We reserve the right to withdraw or modify at any time the arrangements advertised where necessary to do so. In the unlikely event of the accommodation advertised not being available, we will endeavour to provide suitable alternative accommodation.
9. All reasonable and proper steps have been taken to ensure that the accommodation and services are as advertised. We will be responsible for any acts or omissions of our own employees and agents whilst acting within the scope of their employment but cannot be responsible for the acts or omissions of those providing services over which we have no direct control. 10. The accommodation advertised at Villa Segalato, Villa Marie and Casino Pisanelli are private villas and fall outwith local hotel regulations. 11. In the interests of safety and hygiene, you are advised to wear appropriate clothing and footwear in the kitchen at all times. 12. We shall not be responsible for luggage lost in transit while the responsibility of an airline. Where possible we will provide advice and assistance in seeking to retrieve any luggage so lost. 13. We will not be responsible if you suffer illness, personal injury or death as a result of misadventure during the period of your overseas trip arising out of an activity that does not form part of the course provided by us. 14. All courses are subject to a minimum number of bookings and we therefore reserve the right to cancel and in this event we will return all monies which you have paid. In no case will your holiday be cancelled within six weeks of departure except in the event of circumstances outwith our control. 15. In the event of any problems arising during the cause, you must report it immediately to our representative on the course and failing satisfactory resolution of the problem, you should file a written report within 28 days of your return. No liability will be accepted for any complaint not reported to our representative at the time and intimated within 28 days thereafter. 16. All travellers need valid passports. 17. The contract, of which this forms part, shall be governed by the law of Scotland.
FL AVOURS OF I TALY LTD
63 Raeburn Place Edinburgh EH4 1JF T: 0800 612 6477 T: 0131 343 2500 E: info@flavoursholidays.com W: www.flavoursholidays.co.uk
COOKING’S JUST THE HALF OF IT!
FL AVOURS OF I TALY LTD
63 Raeburn Place Edinburgh EH4 1JF T: 0800 612 6477 T: 0131 343 2500 E: info@flavoursholidays.com W: www.flavoursholidays.co.uk