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[FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]We just returned a few days ago and used Rome In Limo for all 3 ports in Italy-Naples, Rome & Florence. They are a top-notch company and I highly recommend them if you are considering private tours. Looking back, I am sure our cruise wouldn’t have been the memorable experience that it was without them.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]In Livorno, Giovanni met us as we left the ship at 8am. We went directly to Pompeii and were there as they gates opened. We opted not to have a guide here since I had printed out a walking tour; however there were guides available at the ticket booth. We spent about 2 hours there, but you could really spend a day. When we left we could see the crowds and bus tour coming in. From there, we took a gorgeous drive to the Amalfi Coast. Giovanni knew just where to pull over for photos. Sorrento is truly breathtaking. He recommended and reserved a fantastic place for lunch, where we had pasta, pizza, wine along with the most delicious olives I have ever had. We were treated to a taste of Limoncello. Afterwards we had time for some shopping and exploring. Our final stop was the beautiful village of Positano, where I felt we were living in a postcard. [/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]The next day, Manuel was waiting for us and we were on our way to Rome. It is a bit of a drive and we hit some rush hour traffic, but we hardly noticed because Manuel used this time to fill us in on the plan was for the day and asked if we had any special requests. We went to the Coliseum, Circus Maximus, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps as well as others and were given as much time as needed, we never felt rushed. We had made reservations for the Vatican for 2pm (recommended by RIL.) We did reserve a guide and I believe it was money well spent. We never waited in line more than a few minutes for anything. [/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3]We had Gian in Florence. We stopped at Pisa first, again before the crowds arrived. We stopped at an olive oil factory and sampled different types of oil on delicious bread and a sample of local wine. We drove through the beautiful Tuscan countryside on our way to the spectacular city of Florence. I really did not know what to expect here, but fell in love with this city. Gian filled us in on the area history while we marveled at the gorgeous Renaissance art & architecture. Our group opted to see the Accademia Museum- David must be seen! We saw all of the major spots including the Duomo, Santa Croce, Ponte Vecchio and still had plenty of shopping time at the Mercato. A fantastic day![/SIZE][/FONT]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]All three drivers were extremely knowledgeable and insightful as well as personable and fun! We always returned to the ship in plenty of time. I cannot imagine that any of the bus tours could give the same experience and all 8 in our group (we all found each other on the roll calls) felt the same. We were able to get into areas that buses are not allowed-which enabled us to see much more at much less cost. When I return to Italy, I will definitely use Rome In Limo![/FONT][/SIZE]

I also would like to thank you for your very informative note. We are leaving this week and also have all of the tours listed above scheduled and now feel I know what to expect...and it sounds wonderful!

 

Excuse me if this has ben asked and answered before but, what is considered a good tip for the tours for great service? I know tipping is not the same as here and it is a personal choice, but certainly do not want to 'under tip!' We we are going with a group met here at CC, there will be 8 of us total.

 

Thanks.

Thanks for your replies Pam & Bill. I have read the the ATM's are the way to go, but you hate not to have enough cash and then not be able to find a machine or not have one work, especially in a foreign country! I supposed I should get some here before we leave and will worry about the rest when we are there. :rolleyes:

We have 3 tours with RIL scheduled for our September cruise. My question for you all is...did you pay for the services is cash or travelers checks? Did you get euros before the cruise? Our tours are 3 days in a row at the beginning of our cruise. I hate to bring so much cash but am thinking it may be a hassle to find travelers checks in euros here before we leave. Any advise appreciated.

Thank you! This will be very helpful for our September cruise. We will also be in Toulon and Villefrance and are planning to tour on our own.

I am so happy to hear all of these wonderful reviews. I will be sailing on my first Med cruise in September and have booked 3 tours with Rome In Limo. Can't wait!

I would definitely email them again. They did quote me a discount for booking 3 tours with them.