From your initial call to planning your trip to our Farewell Dinner, our goal is create fun, passionate, inspiring tours for our guests. We love the adventure of it all – that’s why we're in this business in the first place! A great company is built one client at a time. Personal service, attention to detail, professional courtesy and a sincere desire to create a great experience are all part of what we try to create at Che Bella Tours. We encourage our guests to report back on their experiences with specific feedback on their trips - both positive and negative - so we can strive to be better and better. And as they say, "If you enjoyed your experience, tell your friends. If you didn't ... tell us!" See what some of our past guests since 2015 have to say below.
Would you like to speak directly to one of our past guests before you book?
CONTACT US
Sandy Gregory
Owner, Program Manager and Tour Director
Che Bella Tours
[email protected]
Direct: 303-596-4563
Would you like to speak directly to one of our past guests before you book?
CONTACT US
Sandy Gregory
Owner, Program Manager and Tour Director
Che Bella Tours
[email protected]
Direct: 303-596-4563
TRIP REPORTS |
Sandy, I have been remiss not writing you sooner to give you our thoughts/review of our trip. Originally, we were not going with our kids, but as the trip got closer, we decided a family trip would be a trip of a life time. And here is where you come into play. You set up a great trip with great drivers and guides which really brought Italy to life.
First encounter was Manu (I think his full name is Manuel). He was absolutely fantastic. Made us feel very comfortable and at home. He was on time, informative and well spoken. Our next driver was Francisco. Broken English but very understandable. His favorite line was “In theory, it coulda be worse”. He used this line when talking about the weather, about Italian politics, about Italian drivers, etc….. he was a wealth of history, as was Manu, which gave our time with them even more enjoyable.
Our guide in Bologna was Sylvia. She was great. She knew the town well, knew where to take us and was very personable. Our favorite place was Siena. Carlos was our guide and was from the Valley of the Ram Contrada. We were lucky to have our trip two days before the Palio race and he knew “everything” about this great city and its history.
Our Lake Trasimino guide lived on the small island that we visited and knew everyone in town. Our wine tasting venue and the balsamic tasting were great. I bought a case plus of wine and over $100 bottle of balsamic vinegar, so it must have been good.
Florence was great as well. Your restaurant recommendation was fabulous. Best service ever and the food was phenomenal. Our hotel in Florence was in a perfect location and the roof top bar was our private oasis at the end of the night. Every night we overlooked the beautiful river and bridges of Florence.
Sue and I want to thank you so much for your help. Your coordination of our trip and the people you hooked us up with really made the trip 10X better than if we went into it alone. When we go international in the future, you will be our first call and we will recommend your services whenever we get the chance. (I was really hoping you would have bombed so I could give Doug a lot of shit but now I will have to thank him for introducing us. Small price to pay I guess.)
BTW…..My son and daughter in law celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary in Cortona and my daughter’s boyfriend proposed in Arezzo in front of the whole family. It all was meant to be! It was fabulous and was truly a trip of a lifetime. Respectfully, Big and Susie Q
Our trip was magnificent! As much as we enjoyed Italy last year, Angela put the Netherlands ahead of that! As usual, your restaurant recommendations were spot on, and all the connections and tours were as stated. Accommodations were also superb. If you remember we had a glitch in meeting our tour guide the first night in Amsterdam (such is international travel sometimes ...), and instead, your in-country partner, Tom, came to meet us. Without that glitch, we would have never met him, and he is fantastic!! We are looking forward to traveling with you to Spain in 2025. Geoff and Angela
Thank you so much for coordinatng a fabulous trip for our small group! All of the itinerary details were layout perfectly. The itinerary was perfect. I fell in love with Florence all over again and in retrospect would have spent an extra day in Florence! We were particularly pleased with the hotels that we stayed at both in Florence and in Rome and would highly recommend both locations in the future. I also wanted to let you know that the drivers that were assigned for our transportation were all wonderful, and the cars that came to pick us up were the perfect size for us and all of our luggage. Carol and Jim
We had a wonderful time as always. As we have said that six times now, we appreciate all you’ve done for us over the years. Your attention to detail and knowledge of the countries we visit is so valuable. You are incredible at what you do. We had a smooth journey. No problems with the transfers. Hotel was very nice and well located. The afternoon tea was a perfect start to our vacation. We loved London Tower and the tower bridge. We walked along the river to get back to our hotel which was fun. I saw the musical Six recently so the Tower was especially interesting. Sue, your London guide, was lovely. Very kind and great at her job. Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace were awesome. The Red Lion was a great pub- really enjoyed that spot. Our guide at the War Room was exceptional. Really made it worth the time. In our free days we went to VNA, Harrods, London Eye. British Museum and the National Gallery. Les Mis was phenomenal of course and The Play that Goes Wrong was very fun. We’d like to do another whole family trip and are already thinking about what's next. Thanks from the bottom of our hearts. Sarah and Roy
Todd and I both really wanted to thank you for such a wonderful, memorable trip to Italy. It was everything and more than we expected. Can't thank you enough for your calm, cool head when Todd fell ill, keeping both of us from panicking. Bringing our book club books to life on these trips make it such a rich experience. We are looking forward to the next adventure and many more! Cheri and Todd
Thank you for shepherding our merry band through our fabulous Italian adventure. I've had a terrace time working with you. Book Club is a fabulous approach to travel. It really adds depth to everything we see and experience, making th trip all the more meaningful. You are clearly doing exactly the job you were meant to do. All the best, Carleen
Sandy, Thank you for it all! I love these trips with you: meeting new people, reading new books and having trips of a lifetime. Three next year!!! Dena
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for a wonderful, memorable trip to Belgium and The Netherlands. We asked to see Michaelangelo’s Bruges Madonna and eat chocolates you gave us a trip to a fairyland fantasy of romantic canals, historic architecture, gorgeous art, delicious beer and mouthwatering sweets within cities with unique personalities. But the biggest surprise was the people, who have experienced so much yet remain open minded, kind and optimistic however never ask for crispy French fries or step in front of their moving bicycle. A carriage and boat rides, wind mills, wooden shoes, shopping, good friends and laughter made it more charming. The experience of this adventure exceeded our expectations, making our Holland and Belgium trip another excellent adventure as promised. Only you could surprise and delight us! We LOVE traveling with you, our friend. Thank you, Che Bella. Herb and Diane
Everything about our trip was fabulous. Every interaction we had with the drivers, guides, and daily check-ins was positive and easy to navigate. We loved the hotels in Florence and Sienna the most; however, all were great for different reasons. Our three excursions, as I will call them, of balsamic vinegar tasting, cooking class, and wine tasting were amazing. I struggle to share anything that we had a problem with. The only time I felt like I did not know what was happening is when we first arrived in Bolonge and we were not sure exactly how we would meet the first driver. However, once we cleared the secure area at the airport, Luca was easy to find.
This is the first time that we have used a travel agent to plan a trip. We have traveled all over the world but previously took on the task of planning ourselves. I will never go back to planning on our own again. Sandy at Che Bella listened to what was important to us, collaborated with us in the planning process, responded to unforeseen changes, and ultimately provided us with an amazing trip to Italy to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. Becca and Ward
Our Italy trip was amazing, and everything we had hoped for. Our Italy contacts, Tour guides, and drivers were ALL Amazing, and very friendly and knowledgeable. We especially enjoyed the pizza making class and the cooking class with Andrea at his home in Tuscany (wonderful experience). Our Hotel In Sorrento was one of the highlights. We will "highly" recommend you to everyone who wants to travel abroad.
My dearest sweet Sandy, How do I say how much I have enjoyed this trip to Italy? Where to begin? It has far exceeded my expectations. Yes, you went above and beyond to make sure we had a fabulous time. The hotels were perfect. The food was the best ever. The cooking classes and truffle hunt were my highlights. I will definately do another trip with you and look forward to it. Cindy
I want to thank you again for a great trip!! I learned a long time ago, little things and attention to details greatly affect the final product. Truffle hunting. Pasta making. And of course, your great advice and recommendations. We all had high expectations of this trip and as I said to you while we were traveling, Che Bella - like The Masters - greatly exceded my expectations. We look forward to another trip in the very near future.
Rich and Melissa
Just wanted you to know we so enjoyed our trip. Palio 2025!!!! Renee and Alan
This was my third trip with Sandy and she never disappoints. We started with a pre-tour yoga retreat in Marrakech, Morocco located in an exotic riad (a home turned into an exotic B&B) in the middle of the Medina. Yoga classes were held on the terrace with a sweeping view of the city; our meals were healthy ... and delicious, the traditional Hammam bath was quite the experience and it was fun to explore the winding streets of the Medina. Sandy and her associate, Abdou, took care of every detail in this magical, colorful city, with horse-drawn carriages and tuk-tuk tours, a camel ride, and a hot air balloon ride over the Atlas mountains. We felt safe and attended to every step of the way. Our group then headed to Spain. I didn't anticipate the deep history and richness of this colorful country as we traveled to Madrid, Ronda, Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Barcelona. Fernando, our driver, got us everywhere on time and in comfort. Highlights: The Alhambra and interior of the Sagrada Familia. Where are we going next time? Wendy
What a fabulous time we had sharing this time with you in Morocco and Spain! I would not change a thing - so many wonderful memories were made. It was truly a special trip. Mimi, Meg and Nicole
Thank you so much for a fantastic tour of Spain. So many wonderful memories. And thanks for being a great friend too. I'm looking forward to our next trip. Sandy
Yeah, you knocked this one out of the park. Georgia
Sandy and her team helped my dream trip to Italy happen! While I had a dream, I really had no idea how to make it happen. Sandy found a beautiful Tuscan villa to rent. She arranged day trips for us - with amazing guides who really brought each town to life. She even had a chef who came to our villa and showed us how to make Italian classics. Everything that Sandy arranged for us was top quality. Trust Sandy to make your dream come true! The Smith Family
Our trip was FANTASTIC! As we were experiencing each day I realized how much you listened to us during our initial call with you. Every driver and tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, professional and made us feel like a priority.
After a group survey, we decided our time cooking with Andrea and his sister-in-law was by far the best for all of us. We enjoyed the intimate gathering in his farmhouse and the relationship between the two was comical. Moe was able to speak his Italian dialect to her which made it even better. Do not even have to mention how good the food was. We also totally loved the private wine tasting and lunch in Tuscany. Again, it was special that it was just US!
The foodie tour in Bologna was another tour that really took us all by surprise. I know I was not expecting it to be as elaborate as it was, but let me say it was SO good! Our quick afternoon in Maranello was a highlight for my son Luca and Husband who are HUGE Ferrari fans. It was a quaint local feeling town. Glad we were able to fit it in for them.
I do need to mention Siena, it was a stopover that was such a treat. We all loved the history about the Contradas and had fun during our tour spotting the flags.
I am glad we started the trip in Rome and got to experience Ancient Rome and the Vatican. I loved the view of the Pantheon from our room and being able to see the hustle and bustle below, but also the quietness in the mornings.
The Villa in Tuscany was so charming and peaceful. Our driver in Tuscany was very knowledgeable regarding the Tuscany region and types of wines and was always pointing things out to us during the drive which made the time even more enjoyable. We knew he was going to part of our memories.
Cinque Terre was also a very special area that I felt I could of spent a week there exploring.
I also need to mention Alessandro, he was always there for us at the ready with any questions I had. He is a great addition to your team! And ALL the tour guides were so knowledgeable. We could have seen the same things on our own but would not have had the same appreciation for what we were looking at, and their passion for the cities and sites made it memorable. You and your team gave my family a trip of a lifetime! Moe and I have been giving your name out to everyone who will listen. Thank you again for helping this dream come true for us. Kista and family
Our Italy trip was a dream of a lifetime for us as we celebrated our 40th anniversary there. The itinerary, accommodations, and tour guides were all excellent as we were confident they would be, having traveled with you before. We have so many wonderful memories to treasure. I can't think of much I would change. Spending a few days in each location rather constantly moving allowed time to relax and enjoy each place. We especially enjoyed the villa in Tuscany, wine tasting, cooking classes, and time to explore. The guides were very accommodating and interesting, especially the guy in Siena, he really made me want to come back for the Palio horse race! Looking forward to our next trip. I have recommended you and CheBella to many friends and look forward to working with you again in the future. Mary and Glenn
Thank you again for yet another great Italian experience! WE want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the amazing tour to Northern Italy. Your knowledge of the local attractions, your enthusiasm and your attention to detail truly made our trip unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, your expert guidance and insightful commentary added depth to each destination we visited. Your hidden gems were spot on, and we wouldn't have discovered them without you. Your dedication to ensuring our comfort and enjoyment was evident throughout the trip. It's clear that you're not just a tour guide, but a passionate ambassador for the places you showcase. Thank you again for your exceptional service. We look forward to future adventures with you.
Lou and Lisa
Thank you very much for such a wonderful trip to Northern Italy! It was great being with you again. We sincerely appreciated your knowledge and expertise in making this trip another excellent adventure!! Sandy and Marion
Sandy, when you were little, and people asked what you wanted to be when you grew up, somehow I double you ever said, "I want to be the ringmaster of my own 3-ring circus!" Thank you for two wonderful weeks of traveling through France. You've managed us, the arrangements, and all our accoutrements with much care, humor and grace. I look forward to another year of The Che Bella Book Club and our upcoming tour to Italy. Fondly and with best wishes, Carleen
Thank you for such a wonderful trip to France. Every stop was right on. But, I have to especially thank you for indulging my love for weaving and silk. Sheri
Our trip was FANTASTIC! As we were experiencing each day I realized how much you listened to us during our initial call with you. Every driver and tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, professional and made us feel like a priority.
After a group survey, we decided our time cooking with Andrea and his sister-in-law was by far the best for all of us. We enjoyed the intimate gathering in his farmhouse and the relationship between the two was comical. Moe was able to speak his Italian dialect to her which made it even better. Do not even have to mention how good the food was. We also totally loved the private wine tasting and lunch in Tuscany. Again, it was special that it was just US!
The foodie tour in Bologna was another tour that really took us all by surprise. I know I was not expecting it to be as elaborate as it was, but let me say it was SO good! Our quick afternoon in Maranello was a highlight for my son Luca and Husband who are HUGE Ferrari fans. It was a quaint local feeling town. Glad we were able to fit it in for them.
I do need to mention Siena, it was a stopover that was such a treat. We all loved the history about the Contradas and had fun during our tour spotting the flags.
I am glad we started the trip in Rome and got to experience Ancient Rome and the Vatican. I loved the view of the Pantheon from our room and being able to see the hustle and bustle below, but also the quietness in the mornings.
The Villa in Tuscany was so charming and peaceful. Our driver in Tuscany was very knowledgeable regarding the Tuscany region and types of wines and was always pointing things out to us during the drive which made the time even more enjoyable. We knew he was going to part of our memories.
Cinque Terre was also a very special area that I felt I could of spent a week there exploring.
I also need to mention Alessandro, he was always there for us at the ready with any questions I had. He is a great addition to your team! And ALL the tour guides were so knowledgeable. We could have seen the same things on our own but would not have had the same appreciation for what we were looking at, and their passion for the cities and sites made it memorable. You and your team gave my family a trip of a lifetime! Moe and I have been giving your name out to everyone who will listen. Thank you again for helping this dream come true for us. Kista and family
2019 - 22
Che Bella once again created another successful journey with our California Dreaming trip. We experienced nature, culture, food, both exotic and comfort, land and sea, large cities and smaller communities with time for beach or hot tub visits. California was amazing, nothing like we envisioned but so much more. The coast is magnificent and surprisingly the water is very cold, the forests trees unimaginably large, art museums fojjnique architecture in every location. Travel is an adventure, which means you need to be ready for what life throws at you. Due to Covid, we did have a few cancelled events (Hearst Castle, Horse ride on the beach) a disappointment , but it was quickly remedied with other arrangements and off we went. This trip was different. There was the usual rush to accomplish as much as possible during each waking hour but at the end of the day we felt relaxed and comforted somehow. Maybe it was the ocean or the forests but one thing for sure, Che Bella once again provided an exceptional memory. May Che Belle continue to make our travel dreams into memories. Diane and Herb
Due to the pandemic, we never got the chance to actually book our trip to Italy through Sandy's company. While we were disappointed about having to pull the plug on our trip, we were so very appreciative to Sandy for being so forthcoming about the realities of traveling right now. She raised concerns for us before they were even on our own radar! Clearly, she has her customer's best interests in mind and genuinely wants them to have the best possible experience!
While she lost a potential sale, she gained a future client! I would highly recommend using Sandy as your trusted travel agent/guide. Mary
Che Bella is a fantastic way to travel! All the time-consuming planning is done for you. Lodging, transportation, meals, guides, and experiences are all first rate. Scheduled activities vs. personal time, the amount of travel within the country, and the types of experiences were all perfectly balanced on our recent trip to Spain and Portugal. Our group was very small, so it was like traveling with a group of friends instead of being on a tour. Can't wait to do it again! Dena
The sensory stimuli - sights, sounds, tastes, smells and touch - are still with me weeks after my return from Spain, Marrakesh and Portugal! We push the envelope each time and my life is richer for it. With each tour (our 4th with Sandy!), the process improves for me. I'm a better traveler - packing, transportation, lodging, choosing menu items - and learn more about myself each time. Hot air balloons, camels, gardens, riads, souks, tile, cork, meats, cheeses, pastries and ports - can't wait for the next adventure!
Che Bella is an experienced and well prepared tour that takes all the worry out of a trip overseas. Patrick
This is the only way to travel. On our trip to Portugal, Che Bella was organized, having a variety of options for you to choose from and also giving you free time to explore on your own. If you had a question they had an answer or would find out quickly. Sandy is a beautiful lady inside and out. I have a new friend and I am blessed to have met her. Debbie
Yasas, Sandy! The trip to Greece was phenomenal. We are all still talking about it. We probably all learn a little bit about each other as travelers and it all worked. First of all, thank you for always being there for us. I never felt like a problem wouldn't be solved or someone who might be unhappy wouldn't be taken care of. That's what I hoped for when I hired you. In addition, your guides, were amazing as were our bus drivers. There were so many positives they are hard to list. Basiliki of course is at top of the list. My brain just went blank as to the name of our Crete guide, but she too was phenomenal. Actually, the enthusiasm of the Akortiri guide tickled me as well. I don't think I would change anything about the itinerary other than one less day on Santorini and one more day in Crete. I think you discovered that this is a group that loves learning but having fun too. And we discovered that you would fill our needs once you learned more about us. Joanne
Thanks so much for organizing such a life-changing tour of Greece. We really appreciated the thoughtfulness that went into each experience. Through our tour adventures, we will continue to be in awe of sites that we saw along the way. And, of course, you were fun, funny and well-organized throughout the trip. Love, Don and Joan
Thank you for a fabulous trip to Greece! I had a wonderful time. I think prosecco for lunch is a good, new tradition. Alice
Gracie mille – what a great trip to Greece! Thanks for being patient with me. Baci e abbracci. Lynn
Thank you for a fabulous trip to Greece! Hope to travel with you again. Sherry
Dan and I would like to thank you so very much for al the care and concern you gave for detail to make our trip to Greece so very memorable! But even more, we so appreciate all the joy you bring to your work. Every day was an experience. We loved every moment. Your have truly found your life’s work – thank you for letting us be a part of it. May you live to be 100! Dan and Kathy
Thanks for a great trip. Everyone had a wonderful time in Greece and are singing your praises. Hopefull in the future we will use you again for another great experience. Joanne, Carleen, Becky, Kennette and Bonnie
The Che Bella experience while traveling the Greek mainland and islands exceeded my expectations. Dietrich
I just returned home from a fantastic adventure to Peru and Bolivia. Sandy was able to adapt to changes on the fly very well ... resourceful and pro-active ... always with us, flexible, fun ... fun, personable, and laid back - like hanging with a friend ... always prepared ... handled any problems that arose quickly and effectively ... kept us informed of any changes. We would recommend her for your next trip. Unsurpassed service with a family feel. Wouldn’t travel with anyone but Che Bella Always an amazing experience. Wendy
I enjoyed my tour to Peru and Bolivia with Che Bella immensely. The hotels, group meals and local guides were excellent. I loved being in the country to see some of the sites. It was a great tour and I imagine it will only get better as this was the first time Che Bella was in Peru. I am grateful! Che Bella was very responsive to all of our needs and seemed to really care about us. Sandy was a lot of fun to be with and made the trip one to remember. Thank you for the fantastic tour and taking care of all the details – especially when things did not go according to the master plan! It was so great to get to know you. Michael and Marcy
Thank you for such a memorable trip to Peru and Bolivia with Dr. Dave! Wendy, Ruth, Mashelle, Kristin, Kelley and Dante.
Peru and Bolivia to dig deep into my book, "The Golden Thread." Thank you for staying true to my theories. First-class all the way! Dr. David Weisher
After having such a great experience touring with Sandy in Italy a few years ago, it was an easy decision to put our two weeks in Italy this spring in her hands. Sandy took care of every detail, big and small. We worried about nothing but showing up! The personal connections she has developed after years in the business means that we had access to people she trusts - the very best! Because she took the time to get to know what we were looking to gain from this trip, what our needs were and what our different interests were, she put together an itinerary with the right experiences, guides and locations that was just perfect for us. And she did it all with a smile! Thanks, Sandy, for helping our family have such a fun and memorable vacation! Sylvia
We had a wonderful trip to Germany and Austria. It was everything I had hoped and we are very pleased. The hotel in Berlin was great. Good location and comfortable and quiet. Our guide was pretty stiff but we enjoyed the tour. Roy and I spent one afternoon wandering the city alone which was great. The public transportation system is wonderful!!! Train travel is the best!! Bamburg was my speed. I love a quiet, quaint village. Munich was great. Bridget was fun and so very helpful. It's hard to say you enjoy Dachau but it was worth seeing and I'm glad we went. We LOVED Neuschwanstein and Oberammergau.
What can you say about Salzburg? Austria is a natural wonder! I would live there. An ideal trip would be Vienna, Lake District and Salzburg with excursions to Chiemsee and Neuschwantstein. It was the perfect ending to the trip. Our guide, Thomas, was a real professional and a lot of fun. Hallstatt was fun and the lake district was breathtaking. Ben really enjoyed the Allianz Arena. Glad we did it for him. He got a jersey of a player that just transferred to his favorite team, FC Barcelona. He had to get it custom printed and they gave him a laugh over it.
Thanks again for all your help. You do a wonderful job pulling it all together and we recommend you to all our friends and family. It was another trip of a lifetime. Sarah
Just wanted to take a quick moment to tell you how awesome the services were that you set up. The hotel was AMAZING! The staff was great, the rooms ample and clean and...what a location! The drivers were great. Always on time and friendly. The tour guides...AMAZING! We had an amazing time and we made some great memories. Thank you so very much. Jeannine
Thank you for putting together a nearly flawless itinerary for our London Trip! We had a wonderful time. It was great fun! We loved the hotel and it’s location. We were able to see and do all that we planned with time out for good food and drinks as well! The Sunday roast pub in Windsor was delicious also. I’m attaching some photos of our motley crew! Our city guide, Alex, was a photographer, as well as terrific guide; with a few tweaks to tour schedule we were able to get to the Royal mews as well as planned sights, which as fun! It was a perfect beginning to a fantastic cruise! Safe and happy travels. Beth
Thank you for making my mother-daughter trip to Northern Italy so special. We loved every minute of it. You work so hard! Carla and Leanna.
It was evident that our tour director spent many hours of preparation to make everything smooth & efficient for us as we traveled with our group through Ireland and Scotland. Thanks, Yolanda
Grazie, Grazie, Grazie!! You never disappoint … we had a wonderful time in Italy once again. Everything about the trip was perfect … so much happiness! Look forward to more travels with you! Ciao Bella, Gary and Joanne
THANK YOU for an amazing trip. We did miss our transportation but it was because our plane was delayed. We got there that is all that matters. The hotel in Rome was great very central located and everyone there was friendly and helpful. Our tours in Rome both days were great and our tour guide was knowledgable and helpful. Tried the Aperol Spritz it was okay. Tried the Jewish artichoke loved it. The cooking class was fantastic.
Santorini the tour and tour guide where perfect. Loved the wine tasting and had a great guide, very knowledgable and answered all our questions.Dubrovnik was one of our favortie places, we walked the wall ( the wrong way) and then met the guide he was fantastic, enjoyed his tour very much. The hotel in Venice was great and everyone was very friendly and the location was great. Our guide was great enjoyed all of her knowledge would h ave liked to go into the Basilica but everything else was great. Loved the tour of the Murano glass got to talk to one of the masters, great experience. Thank you again for everything and hope to do another trip soon.
John and Susan
Che Bella Italia! We are home after an amazing 2 week adventure with friends. This was our second trip to Italy, having been to some of the same cities, always something new and exciting. It exceeded our expectations. This was our 4th adventure with Sandy of Che Bella Tours. She is so much more than a tour director. Every detail is carefully planned in advance for your comfort and enjoyment.
This time Mother Nature gave us a Lemon of a day in Sorrento, so we "made limoncello" instead. She always has something in reserve, maybe a museum, photography exhibit, or shopping. Food too! Did I mention wine? Yes, there is always wine!
Our first adventure was 2 weeks in Italy, 2013, then 2 weeks in France, 2015, and then 2 weeks in Spain, 2017 and back again to Italy, 2019. Greece 2021? You will experience the culture, landscape, and of course the wine and food of your local surroundings whether in the center of a city, a Tuscan villa, a castle or vineyard. It will enrich your body, mind and soul. Che Bella!
Maria & Mike
First encounter was Manu (I think his full name is Manuel). He was absolutely fantastic. Made us feel very comfortable and at home. He was on time, informative and well spoken. Our next driver was Francisco. Broken English but very understandable. His favorite line was “In theory, it coulda be worse”. He used this line when talking about the weather, about Italian politics, about Italian drivers, etc….. he was a wealth of history, as was Manu, which gave our time with them even more enjoyable.
Our guide in Bologna was Sylvia. She was great. She knew the town well, knew where to take us and was very personable. Our favorite place was Siena. Carlos was our guide and was from the Valley of the Ram Contrada. We were lucky to have our trip two days before the Palio race and he knew “everything” about this great city and its history.
Our Lake Trasimino guide lived on the small island that we visited and knew everyone in town. Our wine tasting venue and the balsamic tasting were great. I bought a case plus of wine and over $100 bottle of balsamic vinegar, so it must have been good.
Florence was great as well. Your restaurant recommendation was fabulous. Best service ever and the food was phenomenal. Our hotel in Florence was in a perfect location and the roof top bar was our private oasis at the end of the night. Every night we overlooked the beautiful river and bridges of Florence.
Sue and I want to thank you so much for your help. Your coordination of our trip and the people you hooked us up with really made the trip 10X better than if we went into it alone. When we go international in the future, you will be our first call and we will recommend your services whenever we get the chance. (I was really hoping you would have bombed so I could give Doug a lot of shit but now I will have to thank him for introducing us. Small price to pay I guess.)
BTW…..My son and daughter in law celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary in Cortona and my daughter’s boyfriend proposed in Arezzo in front of the whole family. It all was meant to be! It was fabulous and was truly a trip of a lifetime. Respectfully, Big and Susie Q
Our trip was magnificent! As much as we enjoyed Italy last year, Angela put the Netherlands ahead of that! As usual, your restaurant recommendations were spot on, and all the connections and tours were as stated. Accommodations were also superb. If you remember we had a glitch in meeting our tour guide the first night in Amsterdam (such is international travel sometimes ...), and instead, your in-country partner, Tom, came to meet us. Without that glitch, we would have never met him, and he is fantastic!! We are looking forward to traveling with you to Spain in 2025. Geoff and Angela
Thank you so much for coordinatng a fabulous trip for our small group! All of the itinerary details were layout perfectly. The itinerary was perfect. I fell in love with Florence all over again and in retrospect would have spent an extra day in Florence! We were particularly pleased with the hotels that we stayed at both in Florence and in Rome and would highly recommend both locations in the future. I also wanted to let you know that the drivers that were assigned for our transportation were all wonderful, and the cars that came to pick us up were the perfect size for us and all of our luggage. Carol and Jim
We had a wonderful time as always. As we have said that six times now, we appreciate all you’ve done for us over the years. Your attention to detail and knowledge of the countries we visit is so valuable. You are incredible at what you do. We had a smooth journey. No problems with the transfers. Hotel was very nice and well located. The afternoon tea was a perfect start to our vacation. We loved London Tower and the tower bridge. We walked along the river to get back to our hotel which was fun. I saw the musical Six recently so the Tower was especially interesting. Sue, your London guide, was lovely. Very kind and great at her job. Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace were awesome. The Red Lion was a great pub- really enjoyed that spot. Our guide at the War Room was exceptional. Really made it worth the time. In our free days we went to VNA, Harrods, London Eye. British Museum and the National Gallery. Les Mis was phenomenal of course and The Play that Goes Wrong was very fun. We’d like to do another whole family trip and are already thinking about what's next. Thanks from the bottom of our hearts. Sarah and Roy
Todd and I both really wanted to thank you for such a wonderful, memorable trip to Italy. It was everything and more than we expected. Can't thank you enough for your calm, cool head when Todd fell ill, keeping both of us from panicking. Bringing our book club books to life on these trips make it such a rich experience. We are looking forward to the next adventure and many more! Cheri and Todd
Thank you for shepherding our merry band through our fabulous Italian adventure. I've had a terrace time working with you. Book Club is a fabulous approach to travel. It really adds depth to everything we see and experience, making th trip all the more meaningful. You are clearly doing exactly the job you were meant to do. All the best, Carleen
Sandy, Thank you for it all! I love these trips with you: meeting new people, reading new books and having trips of a lifetime. Three next year!!! Dena
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for a wonderful, memorable trip to Belgium and The Netherlands. We asked to see Michaelangelo’s Bruges Madonna and eat chocolates you gave us a trip to a fairyland fantasy of romantic canals, historic architecture, gorgeous art, delicious beer and mouthwatering sweets within cities with unique personalities. But the biggest surprise was the people, who have experienced so much yet remain open minded, kind and optimistic however never ask for crispy French fries or step in front of their moving bicycle. A carriage and boat rides, wind mills, wooden shoes, shopping, good friends and laughter made it more charming. The experience of this adventure exceeded our expectations, making our Holland and Belgium trip another excellent adventure as promised. Only you could surprise and delight us! We LOVE traveling with you, our friend. Thank you, Che Bella. Herb and Diane
Everything about our trip was fabulous. Every interaction we had with the drivers, guides, and daily check-ins was positive and easy to navigate. We loved the hotels in Florence and Sienna the most; however, all were great for different reasons. Our three excursions, as I will call them, of balsamic vinegar tasting, cooking class, and wine tasting were amazing. I struggle to share anything that we had a problem with. The only time I felt like I did not know what was happening is when we first arrived in Bolonge and we were not sure exactly how we would meet the first driver. However, once we cleared the secure area at the airport, Luca was easy to find.
This is the first time that we have used a travel agent to plan a trip. We have traveled all over the world but previously took on the task of planning ourselves. I will never go back to planning on our own again. Sandy at Che Bella listened to what was important to us, collaborated with us in the planning process, responded to unforeseen changes, and ultimately provided us with an amazing trip to Italy to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. Becca and Ward
Our Italy trip was amazing, and everything we had hoped for. Our Italy contacts, Tour guides, and drivers were ALL Amazing, and very friendly and knowledgeable. We especially enjoyed the pizza making class and the cooking class with Andrea at his home in Tuscany (wonderful experience). Our Hotel In Sorrento was one of the highlights. We will "highly" recommend you to everyone who wants to travel abroad.
My dearest sweet Sandy, How do I say how much I have enjoyed this trip to Italy? Where to begin? It has far exceeded my expectations. Yes, you went above and beyond to make sure we had a fabulous time. The hotels were perfect. The food was the best ever. The cooking classes and truffle hunt were my highlights. I will definately do another trip with you and look forward to it. Cindy
I want to thank you again for a great trip!! I learned a long time ago, little things and attention to details greatly affect the final product. Truffle hunting. Pasta making. And of course, your great advice and recommendations. We all had high expectations of this trip and as I said to you while we were traveling, Che Bella - like The Masters - greatly exceded my expectations. We look forward to another trip in the very near future.
Rich and Melissa
Just wanted you to know we so enjoyed our trip. Palio 2025!!!! Renee and Alan
This was my third trip with Sandy and she never disappoints. We started with a pre-tour yoga retreat in Marrakech, Morocco located in an exotic riad (a home turned into an exotic B&B) in the middle of the Medina. Yoga classes were held on the terrace with a sweeping view of the city; our meals were healthy ... and delicious, the traditional Hammam bath was quite the experience and it was fun to explore the winding streets of the Medina. Sandy and her associate, Abdou, took care of every detail in this magical, colorful city, with horse-drawn carriages and tuk-tuk tours, a camel ride, and a hot air balloon ride over the Atlas mountains. We felt safe and attended to every step of the way. Our group then headed to Spain. I didn't anticipate the deep history and richness of this colorful country as we traveled to Madrid, Ronda, Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Barcelona. Fernando, our driver, got us everywhere on time and in comfort. Highlights: The Alhambra and interior of the Sagrada Familia. Where are we going next time? Wendy
What a fabulous time we had sharing this time with you in Morocco and Spain! I would not change a thing - so many wonderful memories were made. It was truly a special trip. Mimi, Meg and Nicole
Thank you so much for a fantastic tour of Spain. So many wonderful memories. And thanks for being a great friend too. I'm looking forward to our next trip. Sandy
Yeah, you knocked this one out of the park. Georgia
Sandy and her team helped my dream trip to Italy happen! While I had a dream, I really had no idea how to make it happen. Sandy found a beautiful Tuscan villa to rent. She arranged day trips for us - with amazing guides who really brought each town to life. She even had a chef who came to our villa and showed us how to make Italian classics. Everything that Sandy arranged for us was top quality. Trust Sandy to make your dream come true! The Smith Family
Our trip was FANTASTIC! As we were experiencing each day I realized how much you listened to us during our initial call with you. Every driver and tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, professional and made us feel like a priority.
After a group survey, we decided our time cooking with Andrea and his sister-in-law was by far the best for all of us. We enjoyed the intimate gathering in his farmhouse and the relationship between the two was comical. Moe was able to speak his Italian dialect to her which made it even better. Do not even have to mention how good the food was. We also totally loved the private wine tasting and lunch in Tuscany. Again, it was special that it was just US!
The foodie tour in Bologna was another tour that really took us all by surprise. I know I was not expecting it to be as elaborate as it was, but let me say it was SO good! Our quick afternoon in Maranello was a highlight for my son Luca and Husband who are HUGE Ferrari fans. It was a quaint local feeling town. Glad we were able to fit it in for them.
I do need to mention Siena, it was a stopover that was such a treat. We all loved the history about the Contradas and had fun during our tour spotting the flags.
I am glad we started the trip in Rome and got to experience Ancient Rome and the Vatican. I loved the view of the Pantheon from our room and being able to see the hustle and bustle below, but also the quietness in the mornings.
The Villa in Tuscany was so charming and peaceful. Our driver in Tuscany was very knowledgeable regarding the Tuscany region and types of wines and was always pointing things out to us during the drive which made the time even more enjoyable. We knew he was going to part of our memories.
Cinque Terre was also a very special area that I felt I could of spent a week there exploring.
I also need to mention Alessandro, he was always there for us at the ready with any questions I had. He is a great addition to your team! And ALL the tour guides were so knowledgeable. We could have seen the same things on our own but would not have had the same appreciation for what we were looking at, and their passion for the cities and sites made it memorable. You and your team gave my family a trip of a lifetime! Moe and I have been giving your name out to everyone who will listen. Thank you again for helping this dream come true for us. Kista and family
Our Italy trip was a dream of a lifetime for us as we celebrated our 40th anniversary there. The itinerary, accommodations, and tour guides were all excellent as we were confident they would be, having traveled with you before. We have so many wonderful memories to treasure. I can't think of much I would change. Spending a few days in each location rather constantly moving allowed time to relax and enjoy each place. We especially enjoyed the villa in Tuscany, wine tasting, cooking classes, and time to explore. The guides were very accommodating and interesting, especially the guy in Siena, he really made me want to come back for the Palio horse race! Looking forward to our next trip. I have recommended you and CheBella to many friends and look forward to working with you again in the future. Mary and Glenn
Thank you again for yet another great Italian experience! WE want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the amazing tour to Northern Italy. Your knowledge of the local attractions, your enthusiasm and your attention to detail truly made our trip unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, your expert guidance and insightful commentary added depth to each destination we visited. Your hidden gems were spot on, and we wouldn't have discovered them without you. Your dedication to ensuring our comfort and enjoyment was evident throughout the trip. It's clear that you're not just a tour guide, but a passionate ambassador for the places you showcase. Thank you again for your exceptional service. We look forward to future adventures with you.
Lou and Lisa
Thank you very much for such a wonderful trip to Northern Italy! It was great being with you again. We sincerely appreciated your knowledge and expertise in making this trip another excellent adventure!! Sandy and Marion
Sandy, when you were little, and people asked what you wanted to be when you grew up, somehow I double you ever said, "I want to be the ringmaster of my own 3-ring circus!" Thank you for two wonderful weeks of traveling through France. You've managed us, the arrangements, and all our accoutrements with much care, humor and grace. I look forward to another year of The Che Bella Book Club and our upcoming tour to Italy. Fondly and with best wishes, Carleen
Thank you for such a wonderful trip to France. Every stop was right on. But, I have to especially thank you for indulging my love for weaving and silk. Sheri
Our trip was FANTASTIC! As we were experiencing each day I realized how much you listened to us during our initial call with you. Every driver and tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, professional and made us feel like a priority.
After a group survey, we decided our time cooking with Andrea and his sister-in-law was by far the best for all of us. We enjoyed the intimate gathering in his farmhouse and the relationship between the two was comical. Moe was able to speak his Italian dialect to her which made it even better. Do not even have to mention how good the food was. We also totally loved the private wine tasting and lunch in Tuscany. Again, it was special that it was just US!
The foodie tour in Bologna was another tour that really took us all by surprise. I know I was not expecting it to be as elaborate as it was, but let me say it was SO good! Our quick afternoon in Maranello was a highlight for my son Luca and Husband who are HUGE Ferrari fans. It was a quaint local feeling town. Glad we were able to fit it in for them.
I do need to mention Siena, it was a stopover that was such a treat. We all loved the history about the Contradas and had fun during our tour spotting the flags.
I am glad we started the trip in Rome and got to experience Ancient Rome and the Vatican. I loved the view of the Pantheon from our room and being able to see the hustle and bustle below, but also the quietness in the mornings.
The Villa in Tuscany was so charming and peaceful. Our driver in Tuscany was very knowledgeable regarding the Tuscany region and types of wines and was always pointing things out to us during the drive which made the time even more enjoyable. We knew he was going to part of our memories.
Cinque Terre was also a very special area that I felt I could of spent a week there exploring.
I also need to mention Alessandro, he was always there for us at the ready with any questions I had. He is a great addition to your team! And ALL the tour guides were so knowledgeable. We could have seen the same things on our own but would not have had the same appreciation for what we were looking at, and their passion for the cities and sites made it memorable. You and your team gave my family a trip of a lifetime! Moe and I have been giving your name out to everyone who will listen. Thank you again for helping this dream come true for us. Kista and family
2019 - 22
Che Bella once again created another successful journey with our California Dreaming trip. We experienced nature, culture, food, both exotic and comfort, land and sea, large cities and smaller communities with time for beach or hot tub visits. California was amazing, nothing like we envisioned but so much more. The coast is magnificent and surprisingly the water is very cold, the forests trees unimaginably large, art museums fojjnique architecture in every location. Travel is an adventure, which means you need to be ready for what life throws at you. Due to Covid, we did have a few cancelled events (Hearst Castle, Horse ride on the beach) a disappointment , but it was quickly remedied with other arrangements and off we went. This trip was different. There was the usual rush to accomplish as much as possible during each waking hour but at the end of the day we felt relaxed and comforted somehow. Maybe it was the ocean or the forests but one thing for sure, Che Bella once again provided an exceptional memory. May Che Belle continue to make our travel dreams into memories. Diane and Herb
Due to the pandemic, we never got the chance to actually book our trip to Italy through Sandy's company. While we were disappointed about having to pull the plug on our trip, we were so very appreciative to Sandy for being so forthcoming about the realities of traveling right now. She raised concerns for us before they were even on our own radar! Clearly, she has her customer's best interests in mind and genuinely wants them to have the best possible experience!
While she lost a potential sale, she gained a future client! I would highly recommend using Sandy as your trusted travel agent/guide. Mary
Che Bella is a fantastic way to travel! All the time-consuming planning is done for you. Lodging, transportation, meals, guides, and experiences are all first rate. Scheduled activities vs. personal time, the amount of travel within the country, and the types of experiences were all perfectly balanced on our recent trip to Spain and Portugal. Our group was very small, so it was like traveling with a group of friends instead of being on a tour. Can't wait to do it again! Dena
The sensory stimuli - sights, sounds, tastes, smells and touch - are still with me weeks after my return from Spain, Marrakesh and Portugal! We push the envelope each time and my life is richer for it. With each tour (our 4th with Sandy!), the process improves for me. I'm a better traveler - packing, transportation, lodging, choosing menu items - and learn more about myself each time. Hot air balloons, camels, gardens, riads, souks, tile, cork, meats, cheeses, pastries and ports - can't wait for the next adventure!
Che Bella is an experienced and well prepared tour that takes all the worry out of a trip overseas. Patrick
This is the only way to travel. On our trip to Portugal, Che Bella was organized, having a variety of options for you to choose from and also giving you free time to explore on your own. If you had a question they had an answer or would find out quickly. Sandy is a beautiful lady inside and out. I have a new friend and I am blessed to have met her. Debbie
Yasas, Sandy! The trip to Greece was phenomenal. We are all still talking about it. We probably all learn a little bit about each other as travelers and it all worked. First of all, thank you for always being there for us. I never felt like a problem wouldn't be solved or someone who might be unhappy wouldn't be taken care of. That's what I hoped for when I hired you. In addition, your guides, were amazing as were our bus drivers. There were so many positives they are hard to list. Basiliki of course is at top of the list. My brain just went blank as to the name of our Crete guide, but she too was phenomenal. Actually, the enthusiasm of the Akortiri guide tickled me as well. I don't think I would change anything about the itinerary other than one less day on Santorini and one more day in Crete. I think you discovered that this is a group that loves learning but having fun too. And we discovered that you would fill our needs once you learned more about us. Joanne
Thanks so much for organizing such a life-changing tour of Greece. We really appreciated the thoughtfulness that went into each experience. Through our tour adventures, we will continue to be in awe of sites that we saw along the way. And, of course, you were fun, funny and well-organized throughout the trip. Love, Don and Joan
Thank you for a fabulous trip to Greece! I had a wonderful time. I think prosecco for lunch is a good, new tradition. Alice
Gracie mille – what a great trip to Greece! Thanks for being patient with me. Baci e abbracci. Lynn
Thank you for a fabulous trip to Greece! Hope to travel with you again. Sherry
Dan and I would like to thank you so very much for al the care and concern you gave for detail to make our trip to Greece so very memorable! But even more, we so appreciate all the joy you bring to your work. Every day was an experience. We loved every moment. Your have truly found your life’s work – thank you for letting us be a part of it. May you live to be 100! Dan and Kathy
Thanks for a great trip. Everyone had a wonderful time in Greece and are singing your praises. Hopefull in the future we will use you again for another great experience. Joanne, Carleen, Becky, Kennette and Bonnie
The Che Bella experience while traveling the Greek mainland and islands exceeded my expectations. Dietrich
I just returned home from a fantastic adventure to Peru and Bolivia. Sandy was able to adapt to changes on the fly very well ... resourceful and pro-active ... always with us, flexible, fun ... fun, personable, and laid back - like hanging with a friend ... always prepared ... handled any problems that arose quickly and effectively ... kept us informed of any changes. We would recommend her for your next trip. Unsurpassed service with a family feel. Wouldn’t travel with anyone but Che Bella Always an amazing experience. Wendy
I enjoyed my tour to Peru and Bolivia with Che Bella immensely. The hotels, group meals and local guides were excellent. I loved being in the country to see some of the sites. It was a great tour and I imagine it will only get better as this was the first time Che Bella was in Peru. I am grateful! Che Bella was very responsive to all of our needs and seemed to really care about us. Sandy was a lot of fun to be with and made the trip one to remember. Thank you for the fantastic tour and taking care of all the details – especially when things did not go according to the master plan! It was so great to get to know you. Michael and Marcy
Thank you for such a memorable trip to Peru and Bolivia with Dr. Dave! Wendy, Ruth, Mashelle, Kristin, Kelley and Dante.
Peru and Bolivia to dig deep into my book, "The Golden Thread." Thank you for staying true to my theories. First-class all the way! Dr. David Weisher
After having such a great experience touring with Sandy in Italy a few years ago, it was an easy decision to put our two weeks in Italy this spring in her hands. Sandy took care of every detail, big and small. We worried about nothing but showing up! The personal connections she has developed after years in the business means that we had access to people she trusts - the very best! Because she took the time to get to know what we were looking to gain from this trip, what our needs were and what our different interests were, she put together an itinerary with the right experiences, guides and locations that was just perfect for us. And she did it all with a smile! Thanks, Sandy, for helping our family have such a fun and memorable vacation! Sylvia
We had a wonderful trip to Germany and Austria. It was everything I had hoped and we are very pleased. The hotel in Berlin was great. Good location and comfortable and quiet. Our guide was pretty stiff but we enjoyed the tour. Roy and I spent one afternoon wandering the city alone which was great. The public transportation system is wonderful!!! Train travel is the best!! Bamburg was my speed. I love a quiet, quaint village. Munich was great. Bridget was fun and so very helpful. It's hard to say you enjoy Dachau but it was worth seeing and I'm glad we went. We LOVED Neuschwanstein and Oberammergau.
What can you say about Salzburg? Austria is a natural wonder! I would live there. An ideal trip would be Vienna, Lake District and Salzburg with excursions to Chiemsee and Neuschwantstein. It was the perfect ending to the trip. Our guide, Thomas, was a real professional and a lot of fun. Hallstatt was fun and the lake district was breathtaking. Ben really enjoyed the Allianz Arena. Glad we did it for him. He got a jersey of a player that just transferred to his favorite team, FC Barcelona. He had to get it custom printed and they gave him a laugh over it.
Thanks again for all your help. You do a wonderful job pulling it all together and we recommend you to all our friends and family. It was another trip of a lifetime. Sarah
Just wanted to take a quick moment to tell you how awesome the services were that you set up. The hotel was AMAZING! The staff was great, the rooms ample and clean and...what a location! The drivers were great. Always on time and friendly. The tour guides...AMAZING! We had an amazing time and we made some great memories. Thank you so very much. Jeannine
Thank you for putting together a nearly flawless itinerary for our London Trip! We had a wonderful time. It was great fun! We loved the hotel and it’s location. We were able to see and do all that we planned with time out for good food and drinks as well! The Sunday roast pub in Windsor was delicious also. I’m attaching some photos of our motley crew! Our city guide, Alex, was a photographer, as well as terrific guide; with a few tweaks to tour schedule we were able to get to the Royal mews as well as planned sights, which as fun! It was a perfect beginning to a fantastic cruise! Safe and happy travels. Beth
Thank you for making my mother-daughter trip to Northern Italy so special. We loved every minute of it. You work so hard! Carla and Leanna.
It was evident that our tour director spent many hours of preparation to make everything smooth & efficient for us as we traveled with our group through Ireland and Scotland. Thanks, Yolanda
Grazie, Grazie, Grazie!! You never disappoint … we had a wonderful time in Italy once again. Everything about the trip was perfect … so much happiness! Look forward to more travels with you! Ciao Bella, Gary and Joanne
THANK YOU for an amazing trip. We did miss our transportation but it was because our plane was delayed. We got there that is all that matters. The hotel in Rome was great very central located and everyone there was friendly and helpful. Our tours in Rome both days were great and our tour guide was knowledgable and helpful. Tried the Aperol Spritz it was okay. Tried the Jewish artichoke loved it. The cooking class was fantastic.
Santorini the tour and tour guide where perfect. Loved the wine tasting and had a great guide, very knowledgable and answered all our questions.Dubrovnik was one of our favortie places, we walked the wall ( the wrong way) and then met the guide he was fantastic, enjoyed his tour very much. The hotel in Venice was great and everyone was very friendly and the location was great. Our guide was great enjoyed all of her knowledge would h ave liked to go into the Basilica but everything else was great. Loved the tour of the Murano glass got to talk to one of the masters, great experience. Thank you again for everything and hope to do another trip soon.
John and Susan
Che Bella Italia! We are home after an amazing 2 week adventure with friends. This was our second trip to Italy, having been to some of the same cities, always something new and exciting. It exceeded our expectations. This was our 4th adventure with Sandy of Che Bella Tours. She is so much more than a tour director. Every detail is carefully planned in advance for your comfort and enjoyment.
This time Mother Nature gave us a Lemon of a day in Sorrento, so we "made limoncello" instead. She always has something in reserve, maybe a museum, photography exhibit, or shopping. Food too! Did I mention wine? Yes, there is always wine!
Our first adventure was 2 weeks in Italy, 2013, then 2 weeks in France, 2015, and then 2 weeks in Spain, 2017 and back again to Italy, 2019. Greece 2021? You will experience the culture, landscape, and of course the wine and food of your local surroundings whether in the center of a city, a Tuscan villa, a castle or vineyard. It will enrich your body, mind and soul. Che Bella!
Maria & Mike
2018 TRIP REPORTS |
Sandy and her husband relocated back to their home in Denver, Colorado in 2018 after a four-year adventure living in St. Thomas, USVI. The devastation caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria at the end of 2017 slowed down operations for Che Bella for just a bit, but in 2019, we were back up and running.
Our trip was well researched and prepared in regards to the requirements of the attendees. A lot of consideration was given to the physical abilitites of everyone involved. There was something for everyone to do based on their interests. Sandy is a well-prepared, congenial host that dealt with the changing needs of our group seamlessly. It was the most memorable trip, loaded with laughter, good times, beauty and BUFFALO! Sandy always does a good job, she is one in a million. We will treasure our trips with her always. Next time: the Pacific Coast Highway to the Redwood Forest. Herb and Diane
My husband and I spent two fantastic weeks in Italy with the experienced hand of Sandy Gregory. She crafted a bespoke trip for us from Venice down to the Amalfi Coast. Her highly skilled staff of local tour guides and driver’s enriched our visit to Italy. We chose our destination and hotels and Sandy made sure all points lined up seamlessly. All private tours and restaurant recommendations were top notch! Wether you want to hand her the reins or plan an itinerary yourself, she will fine tune your trip to make
certain you maximize your time and experience. Yanita and Ron
Thanks for helping us plan the family adventure of a lifetime! So many reasons to celebrate, we couldn’t have done it without you. Craig
Our trip was well researched and prepared in regards to the requirements of the attendees. A lot of consideration was given to the physical abilitites of everyone involved. There was something for everyone to do based on their interests. Sandy is a well-prepared, congenial host that dealt with the changing needs of our group seamlessly. It was the most memorable trip, loaded with laughter, good times, beauty and BUFFALO! Sandy always does a good job, she is one in a million. We will treasure our trips with her always. Next time: the Pacific Coast Highway to the Redwood Forest. Herb and Diane
My husband and I spent two fantastic weeks in Italy with the experienced hand of Sandy Gregory. She crafted a bespoke trip for us from Venice down to the Amalfi Coast. Her highly skilled staff of local tour guides and driver’s enriched our visit to Italy. We chose our destination and hotels and Sandy made sure all points lined up seamlessly. All private tours and restaurant recommendations were top notch! Wether you want to hand her the reins or plan an itinerary yourself, she will fine tune your trip to make
certain you maximize your time and experience. Yanita and Ron
Thanks for helping us plan the family adventure of a lifetime! So many reasons to celebrate, we couldn’t have done it without you. Craig
2017 TRIP REPORTS |
Traveling with Che Bella is like being permitted to wear your favorite pair of old sneakers to a black tie affair. Pure comfort while experiencing the excitement and glamour of a gala event. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about the details. Sandy and her team take care of everything, including lots of great travel tips I’ll be happy to share if we are fortunate enough to be on a future Che Bella Tour together.
On my recent escape, we began with the famous sites in Florence and Pisa, but also explored a treasure I like to call "luscious Lucca." I think the time in Lucca was among my favorite memories – so comfortable and classic. Whether we were searching for the perfect gift for my family at home, a long stroll around the city wall or a welcome glass of wine in the piazza, Lucca had a little of everything I needed.
I was traveling with my daughter who turned 21 while studying abroad in Rome. Sandy knew how to put together an itinerary that allowed for important mother/daughter time, but also catered to our different interests. Even when we were on our own, she had a resource or solution for what we needed wherever we were. Her team in Sorrento made us feel like we were family and our trip with our group of friends along the Amalfi Coast could not have been easier.
Each request or question was returned with an answer or solution that made us feel more in charge … not clueless in another country. You can count on Sandy to make sure that all of the details are taken care of. She doesn’t think her guests need to deal with surprises unless it’s something to celebrate.
I had not taken an international trip in over 20 years and by following the advance planning tips from Che Bella I admit I felt pretty prepared – if that is possible when traveling the world these days. Finally, I found a joy in exploring and new-found energy generated from lots of good belly laughs that boosted my adrenaline. I am gearing up for another memorable Che Bella trip next year and strongly recommend you schedule your tour soon. Sandy’s dance card fills fast for all the right reasons. Vicci Rodgers
Che Bella is the way to travel! Sandy is one of the best tour directors I've ever experienced and she makes sure you are enjoying your trip. Very attentive and knowledgable. I would travel with her again after this trip to Italy, and I highly recommend her for a wonderful travel experience! Cindy & Gary
This was our second private trip with Sandy for our family of 18. Two years ago we traveled throughout Spain with her, and this year it was Italy. We would highly recommend Che Bella tours. Sandy is knowledgeable, energetic, flexible and fun! The Cullen-Ali-Drab-Conway Family
Che Bella Tours made our travel experience to Italy so easy and enjoyable. All we had to do was show up and Sandy took care of getting our room keys, drivers, reservations for excursions, restaurants, etc. The only thing we had to think about was what we wanted to see and eat and Sandy made it happen very easily. Sandy worked hard to make our trip very enjoyable and memorable. My husband can be really hard to please and he was very pleased with her organization and well thought out plans so everything happened as planned and on schedule. Thank you, Sandy, for a fabulous trip!! Kaye & Gerry
The greatest benefit of traveling to Italy with Che Bella Tours was not having to deal with all of the details in planning the trip such as transfers, transportation and finding good guides. The people were wonderful and everything went so smoothly. The recommendations for what to do and where to eat were also very helpful. We had wonderful food everywhere we went. Gelato, pizza, tons of seafood! The tomatoes were spectacular, and of course, loved the limoncello! Jody and Joy
Our family recently returned from a fabulous trip to Italy. It's hard to express how smooth and wonderful everything went. The hotels we stayed in were first class, the tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, and our driver became like one of the family. Every time we arrived at one location, we thought it couldn't get any better...until we got to the next location, that is. Thank you Sandy for helping us to enjoy our trip of a lifetime. The Cerda Family
My husband is not easy to please ... and he was very pleased with our family trip to Italy! What a great way to celebrate my 50th. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Carol and her family to Venice, Florence, Tuscany & Rome
We had a wonderful time in Italy! You have wonderful people! All have been so knowledgeable and kind!. My girls are ready to bring Francesco back to Texas-he was so warm and welcoming to us!! Holly and her family to Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence, Tuscany, Rome & the Amalfi Coast
This phenomenal experience to France gives you an opportunity to deeply delve into a culture in the most efficient manner possible while seeing everything you must see before you die. The logistics are planned professionally, leaving you to choose the adventure that best suits your tastes without worrying over small details. Chris
When taking the time and expense to experience foreign countries, I cannot say enough about the benefits of a worry free tour. I felt our trip to France was thoughtful, well prepared and communicated. Once I land, I know I will be met and led through my experience without any concerns other than being in place and ready to go. Che Bella has the experience and know how to address anything that comes up and make everything seem seamless. This is our third trip with Sandy, and she has earned our trust and appreciation. Pat and Denise
I thoroughly enjoyed all of the sights and experiences in France! I felt like the itinerary was well rounded to get all the basics of this beautiful country. Getting from place to place was done efficiently and allowed for seeing the country and specific locations easily. Many were places I'd always wanted to experience and others were unknown delights. It had been a long time since I negotiated subways and trains in a foreign country and lots of walking, so that was a personal challenge that only I experienced. Thank goodness for the Plummer boys! Thank you for all you did to make this trip one that I will always treasure! Bebe
Che Bella makes traveling abroad exciting but simple. The attention to details, such as the pre-trip guide, and the selection of unique dining experiences made our trip to France a wonderful experience. - Margaret
Thank you Sandy! It was a truly amazing trip to Paris - all thanks to you! I really appreciate all of your help. Everything went off without a hitch. The foodie tour was one of my favorite things! Our tour guide was one of the best I have seen – I could hardly walk afterwards I was so full. I made several trips to Pierre Herme – macaroons will never taste the same. Your French "pique nique" was great! The weather was perfect and I loved the Luxemburg gardens!! Also, I highly recommend our tour guide during the two day excursions. He was perfect and happened to know lots of Texas history and its connection to Paris, which was very cool. We can't wait to use you again and I have already passed along your name to my friends that asked about the trip! Lauren V.
Che Bella provided a comprehensive tour of Normandy and Brittany with focus on the D-Day experience. Their choice of private guide was superb. All requested details were included - most appreciated. The travel documents were extremely detailed, nothing was omitted. In fact every little detail was covered. I appreciated the part about tipping, different ways to order coffee, etc. We referred back to it constantly, even for reference while labeling photos. We stayed at 11 different locations. We loved the town of Deuville and Rouen very much. In Rouen we saw the Panarama and the laser show at the Cathedral. Really wonderful surprise. We love French cuisine, and our guide took us to Auberge de L'Ouve. What a place in the country! He drove both nights when we were in Turqueville. We loved the B and B there. Tonnes and Frances were wonderful. We have common friends in the military so we are keeping in touch. Our guide was superbly knowledgeable and kept us informed all the way. His enthusiasm is infectious. Absolutely cannot say enough about him. Tom & Ruth, Sue & Butch
A true adventure throughout Spain, great fun, food, new friends, and always something new to learn about the world around us. Loved the hammam in Granada and the outstanding dinner specialty places, tapas, and of course, the gin bars! Sandy was Wonderful! Positive and so fun to be with! ... Sandy, You are you, and that's says volumes. Maria & Mike
Traveling with Sandy at Che Bella was like traveling with a good friend. She was the perfect tour director and constantly checked with all the travelers in the group to see that their needs were being met. Sandy was positive about every aspect of our trip to Spain and asked for each guest's input daily. We became a group of friends, not just travel companions. This was my second trip with Sandy and I'm looking forward to the next! I highly recommend Che Bella for all of your travel needs. Linda
What an unforgettable way to spend our 30th anniversary: A trip of a lifetime to Italy and Greece with both our boys and great friends, Sandy Gregory and Odell Isaac. Shari and I are so thankful for this one-of-a-kind anniversary and know that we are truly blessed. Thanks again to Che Bella Tours for delivering an absolutely unforgettable experience for our family. Together, we planned (and are living) this awesome trip. As Sandy has taught me, "When you travel with people you love to places worth seeing and experiencing, it doesn't matter how much you've spent, you always return richer"! The Rangell Family
Sandy, just like when you planned our trip to Ireland, there was no way we could have planned this trip to Italy without you. We would have stayed forever if we could. It was one of the most special times of our whole life. We didn’t have to think about anything, everything was planned and all we had to do was enjoy. It was such a special time for us as a family and what it did for the relationships with our kids, I will never forget. We tried to see and do and eat and shop at as many of your recommendations as we could.
Our favorite city was Florence. It’s is such a cool city, open and accepting to all. The artisan tour you set up was really a treat. Our favorite was a sculptor who used hand-etched brass steel plates and turned them in to beautiful accessories. The artists were proud of their city, and when they found out our daughter was studying at Ganzaga in Florence, he was so excited he gave her a custom bracelet as a gift.
We loved our guides and drivers. Susanna and Cynthia made our day tours interesting and fun and were a joy to be with. Our driver, Francesco, was always courteous and interesting. It was a great dialogue about his country. Down the Amalfi Coast, Luigi was so patient with us, with all of our suitcases and a little car-sickness ... and he is so proud of his country. A real pleasure. And when we got to be our own drivers - in our vintage Cinquecento Fiats - we had an absolute blast! The views were so breathtaking! My magical place always used to be the ocean, and now it’s Tuscany. The pizza and gelato class was a blast. It was a fun group class and we enjoyed meeting people from all over the world. Our Tuscan cooking lesson was also great. Chef Giuseppina really worked with my kids to make them comfortable in the kitchen to help them become more comfortable cooking. We made the recipes as soon as we got home.
We loved the location of our hotel in Rome. I could just sit outside, listen to music and watch the world go by all day. I had to keep asking myself, am I really here? I don’t know anything about Italy, and you were so accomodating helping us plan our trip and adjusting and reworking as we anticipated the chance that we could do Christmas Eve mass at the Vatican. And of course, as a Catholic family, that was a once in a lifetime thrill.
Our New Years in Sorrento finished our trip with a bang. It was the most fun New Years we have had in our whole life! We were with locals, there was a singer and the food was wonderful. By the time dinner was over, we had the whole restaurant dancing and singing. At the stroke of midnight, there were fireworks everywhere and we let off wishing lanterns. We finished, of course, with their home made limoncello. The evening ended with lots of hugs and well wishes from our new Italian friends. Thanks again, Sandy. It was a trip of a lifetime! The Rose Family
Sandy - our trip was OUTSTANDING! You are fabulous - have recommended you to many friends, and shared your itinerary write up with many. We felt so taken care of - thank you! Florence - I felt this was extra good. The hotel was fabulous - spacious, great breakfast, and great location. Also, the activities were fun! Loved the wine tasting and pizza cooking classes, and Cinque Terre was a wonderful day trip. Siena - my personal favorite. Susanna did a wonderful job walking us thru the city - loved the town square, and hearing all about the Palio. Orviteo - we loved this stop! The shopping was wonderful - thanks so much for having that in the trip. Rome - this was our favorite. Loved the city, and so much to see! Cynthia did a wonderful job, and it was so cold, and she never flinched! The Vatican was wonderful - so beautiful. The Murphy Family
On my recent escape, we began with the famous sites in Florence and Pisa, but also explored a treasure I like to call "luscious Lucca." I think the time in Lucca was among my favorite memories – so comfortable and classic. Whether we were searching for the perfect gift for my family at home, a long stroll around the city wall or a welcome glass of wine in the piazza, Lucca had a little of everything I needed.
I was traveling with my daughter who turned 21 while studying abroad in Rome. Sandy knew how to put together an itinerary that allowed for important mother/daughter time, but also catered to our different interests. Even when we were on our own, she had a resource or solution for what we needed wherever we were. Her team in Sorrento made us feel like we were family and our trip with our group of friends along the Amalfi Coast could not have been easier.
Each request or question was returned with an answer or solution that made us feel more in charge … not clueless in another country. You can count on Sandy to make sure that all of the details are taken care of. She doesn’t think her guests need to deal with surprises unless it’s something to celebrate.
I had not taken an international trip in over 20 years and by following the advance planning tips from Che Bella I admit I felt pretty prepared – if that is possible when traveling the world these days. Finally, I found a joy in exploring and new-found energy generated from lots of good belly laughs that boosted my adrenaline. I am gearing up for another memorable Che Bella trip next year and strongly recommend you schedule your tour soon. Sandy’s dance card fills fast for all the right reasons. Vicci Rodgers
Che Bella is the way to travel! Sandy is one of the best tour directors I've ever experienced and she makes sure you are enjoying your trip. Very attentive and knowledgable. I would travel with her again after this trip to Italy, and I highly recommend her for a wonderful travel experience! Cindy & Gary
This was our second private trip with Sandy for our family of 18. Two years ago we traveled throughout Spain with her, and this year it was Italy. We would highly recommend Che Bella tours. Sandy is knowledgeable, energetic, flexible and fun! The Cullen-Ali-Drab-Conway Family
Che Bella Tours made our travel experience to Italy so easy and enjoyable. All we had to do was show up and Sandy took care of getting our room keys, drivers, reservations for excursions, restaurants, etc. The only thing we had to think about was what we wanted to see and eat and Sandy made it happen very easily. Sandy worked hard to make our trip very enjoyable and memorable. My husband can be really hard to please and he was very pleased with her organization and well thought out plans so everything happened as planned and on schedule. Thank you, Sandy, for a fabulous trip!! Kaye & Gerry
The greatest benefit of traveling to Italy with Che Bella Tours was not having to deal with all of the details in planning the trip such as transfers, transportation and finding good guides. The people were wonderful and everything went so smoothly. The recommendations for what to do and where to eat were also very helpful. We had wonderful food everywhere we went. Gelato, pizza, tons of seafood! The tomatoes were spectacular, and of course, loved the limoncello! Jody and Joy
Our family recently returned from a fabulous trip to Italy. It's hard to express how smooth and wonderful everything went. The hotels we stayed in were first class, the tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, and our driver became like one of the family. Every time we arrived at one location, we thought it couldn't get any better...until we got to the next location, that is. Thank you Sandy for helping us to enjoy our trip of a lifetime. The Cerda Family
My husband is not easy to please ... and he was very pleased with our family trip to Italy! What a great way to celebrate my 50th. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Carol and her family to Venice, Florence, Tuscany & Rome
We had a wonderful time in Italy! You have wonderful people! All have been so knowledgeable and kind!. My girls are ready to bring Francesco back to Texas-he was so warm and welcoming to us!! Holly and her family to Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence, Tuscany, Rome & the Amalfi Coast
This phenomenal experience to France gives you an opportunity to deeply delve into a culture in the most efficient manner possible while seeing everything you must see before you die. The logistics are planned professionally, leaving you to choose the adventure that best suits your tastes without worrying over small details. Chris
When taking the time and expense to experience foreign countries, I cannot say enough about the benefits of a worry free tour. I felt our trip to France was thoughtful, well prepared and communicated. Once I land, I know I will be met and led through my experience without any concerns other than being in place and ready to go. Che Bella has the experience and know how to address anything that comes up and make everything seem seamless. This is our third trip with Sandy, and she has earned our trust and appreciation. Pat and Denise
I thoroughly enjoyed all of the sights and experiences in France! I felt like the itinerary was well rounded to get all the basics of this beautiful country. Getting from place to place was done efficiently and allowed for seeing the country and specific locations easily. Many were places I'd always wanted to experience and others were unknown delights. It had been a long time since I negotiated subways and trains in a foreign country and lots of walking, so that was a personal challenge that only I experienced. Thank goodness for the Plummer boys! Thank you for all you did to make this trip one that I will always treasure! Bebe
Che Bella makes traveling abroad exciting but simple. The attention to details, such as the pre-trip guide, and the selection of unique dining experiences made our trip to France a wonderful experience. - Margaret
Thank you Sandy! It was a truly amazing trip to Paris - all thanks to you! I really appreciate all of your help. Everything went off without a hitch. The foodie tour was one of my favorite things! Our tour guide was one of the best I have seen – I could hardly walk afterwards I was so full. I made several trips to Pierre Herme – macaroons will never taste the same. Your French "pique nique" was great! The weather was perfect and I loved the Luxemburg gardens!! Also, I highly recommend our tour guide during the two day excursions. He was perfect and happened to know lots of Texas history and its connection to Paris, which was very cool. We can't wait to use you again and I have already passed along your name to my friends that asked about the trip! Lauren V.
Che Bella provided a comprehensive tour of Normandy and Brittany with focus on the D-Day experience. Their choice of private guide was superb. All requested details were included - most appreciated. The travel documents were extremely detailed, nothing was omitted. In fact every little detail was covered. I appreciated the part about tipping, different ways to order coffee, etc. We referred back to it constantly, even for reference while labeling photos. We stayed at 11 different locations. We loved the town of Deuville and Rouen very much. In Rouen we saw the Panarama and the laser show at the Cathedral. Really wonderful surprise. We love French cuisine, and our guide took us to Auberge de L'Ouve. What a place in the country! He drove both nights when we were in Turqueville. We loved the B and B there. Tonnes and Frances were wonderful. We have common friends in the military so we are keeping in touch. Our guide was superbly knowledgeable and kept us informed all the way. His enthusiasm is infectious. Absolutely cannot say enough about him. Tom & Ruth, Sue & Butch
A true adventure throughout Spain, great fun, food, new friends, and always something new to learn about the world around us. Loved the hammam in Granada and the outstanding dinner specialty places, tapas, and of course, the gin bars! Sandy was Wonderful! Positive and so fun to be with! ... Sandy, You are you, and that's says volumes. Maria & Mike
Traveling with Sandy at Che Bella was like traveling with a good friend. She was the perfect tour director and constantly checked with all the travelers in the group to see that their needs were being met. Sandy was positive about every aspect of our trip to Spain and asked for each guest's input daily. We became a group of friends, not just travel companions. This was my second trip with Sandy and I'm looking forward to the next! I highly recommend Che Bella for all of your travel needs. Linda
What an unforgettable way to spend our 30th anniversary: A trip of a lifetime to Italy and Greece with both our boys and great friends, Sandy Gregory and Odell Isaac. Shari and I are so thankful for this one-of-a-kind anniversary and know that we are truly blessed. Thanks again to Che Bella Tours for delivering an absolutely unforgettable experience for our family. Together, we planned (and are living) this awesome trip. As Sandy has taught me, "When you travel with people you love to places worth seeing and experiencing, it doesn't matter how much you've spent, you always return richer"! The Rangell Family
Sandy, just like when you planned our trip to Ireland, there was no way we could have planned this trip to Italy without you. We would have stayed forever if we could. It was one of the most special times of our whole life. We didn’t have to think about anything, everything was planned and all we had to do was enjoy. It was such a special time for us as a family and what it did for the relationships with our kids, I will never forget. We tried to see and do and eat and shop at as many of your recommendations as we could.
Our favorite city was Florence. It’s is such a cool city, open and accepting to all. The artisan tour you set up was really a treat. Our favorite was a sculptor who used hand-etched brass steel plates and turned them in to beautiful accessories. The artists were proud of their city, and when they found out our daughter was studying at Ganzaga in Florence, he was so excited he gave her a custom bracelet as a gift.
We loved our guides and drivers. Susanna and Cynthia made our day tours interesting and fun and were a joy to be with. Our driver, Francesco, was always courteous and interesting. It was a great dialogue about his country. Down the Amalfi Coast, Luigi was so patient with us, with all of our suitcases and a little car-sickness ... and he is so proud of his country. A real pleasure. And when we got to be our own drivers - in our vintage Cinquecento Fiats - we had an absolute blast! The views were so breathtaking! My magical place always used to be the ocean, and now it’s Tuscany. The pizza and gelato class was a blast. It was a fun group class and we enjoyed meeting people from all over the world. Our Tuscan cooking lesson was also great. Chef Giuseppina really worked with my kids to make them comfortable in the kitchen to help them become more comfortable cooking. We made the recipes as soon as we got home.
We loved the location of our hotel in Rome. I could just sit outside, listen to music and watch the world go by all day. I had to keep asking myself, am I really here? I don’t know anything about Italy, and you were so accomodating helping us plan our trip and adjusting and reworking as we anticipated the chance that we could do Christmas Eve mass at the Vatican. And of course, as a Catholic family, that was a once in a lifetime thrill.
Our New Years in Sorrento finished our trip with a bang. It was the most fun New Years we have had in our whole life! We were with locals, there was a singer and the food was wonderful. By the time dinner was over, we had the whole restaurant dancing and singing. At the stroke of midnight, there were fireworks everywhere and we let off wishing lanterns. We finished, of course, with their home made limoncello. The evening ended with lots of hugs and well wishes from our new Italian friends. Thanks again, Sandy. It was a trip of a lifetime! The Rose Family
Sandy - our trip was OUTSTANDING! You are fabulous - have recommended you to many friends, and shared your itinerary write up with many. We felt so taken care of - thank you! Florence - I felt this was extra good. The hotel was fabulous - spacious, great breakfast, and great location. Also, the activities were fun! Loved the wine tasting and pizza cooking classes, and Cinque Terre was a wonderful day trip. Siena - my personal favorite. Susanna did a wonderful job walking us thru the city - loved the town square, and hearing all about the Palio. Orviteo - we loved this stop! The shopping was wonderful - thanks so much for having that in the trip. Rome - this was our favorite. Loved the city, and so much to see! Cynthia did a wonderful job, and it was so cold, and she never flinched! The Vatican was wonderful - so beautiful. The Murphy Family
2016 TRIP REPORTS |
Well, this is my third trip with Che Bella Tours and they get even better and better! I enjoyed our pre-tour adventures to Barcelona, San Sebastian and Bilbao: three vibrant cities that had so much culture and cuisine. When we met up with the group in Madrid, I knew it was going to be a comfortable, fun experience for me, even though I was traveling as a single. We all connected immediately and I felt completely welcomed and included. Laughter, adventure and fun filled our days. The guides were very knowledgeable and Sandy ran a tight, well-organized tour while adding all of your special touches, in-depth knowledge and of course, lots of extras and fun surprises.
Until the next time ... muchas gracias!
Laura
Our trip to Spain was fabulous in every way. Thank you for all your care and thoughtful planning. You were our tour guide but it felt more like traveling with a good friend. When we lost our passports you jumped in to save us so thank you for everything. Your passion for travel is enhanced because of your kindness and patience. Loved all the tapas crawls with you and the gang. My absolute favorite experience was the Turkish Baths. All the breakfasts were great. I particularly liked the hotel in Ronda. All local tour guides were also very good, and having their insights into the history was really terrific. All dinners were great too. God I'd give anything to go back there again! So in summary we loved traveling with you and hope to use Che Bella again in the future. Appreciate all your attention to detail and giving us options along the way. Well Done Sandy and hope you are home and happy.
Joe and Susan
Thank you very much for a great trip! We had a wonderful time and it was great to be introduced to Spain "Sandy Style!" We take with us some incredible memories. And thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your insights and suggestions for our post-tour in Paris. Dan and Alara
Once again, Sandy, a great adventure! Enjoyed meeting the group and seeing parts of Spain I've always wanted to experience. Even though I was traveling on my own, I loved being with this group and will never forget the laughter and good cheer. Looking forward to traveling with you again next June to France. Ruth
Che Bella Tours is the best. First-Class all the way. Our trip to Italy was very organized. We didn't have to worry about anything. Our guides were interesting, informative and fun. We felt safe and secure with our drivers. (Oh, and very handsome!) The food was excellent, I loved trying wild boar and of course, the wines. I loved learning how to make pasta and Gina was a great teacher and host. The trip went way too fast. I will travel with Sandy and Che Bella Tours for all of my vacations. Lorie G.
Our dearest, Sandy: Thank you so much for our fabulous adventure to Italy! We will never forget it. Loved everything and will never travel without you!!!! Maggie, Preston, Bethaney and John
This year I turned 80, Queen Elizabeth turned 90 and we both celebrated our birthdays in style! Sandy, you took us on a beautiful trip across the pond and made my dream come true. You gave me your arm and showed us London and the beautiful cottages of the Cotswolds. Tasting tours, fine dining, Pimms cups with fish and chips at the pub. We scoured the sights of London and kicked up our Kinky Boots at the theater. Then ASCOT, being so very English for the day in our hats and finery, seeing the Queen arrive in her carriage and even winning a few bets on the races. It was My Fair Lady 2016. Loverly! Geraldine
Thank you so much for taking such good care of our family throughout our time in Tuscany and the Emilia-Romana. You made our trip so special with your wonderful guidance, flexibility, recommendations, and insight into the real Italy. We appreciate all you did to keep all 35 of us on track, appeal to everyone from our 5 year old nephew to Granny, and make this a fun family reunion we will always remember. Can you come home with us? The Smith Family
We had an absolutely fabulous time in Italy. Everything was perfect. Hotels, villa, guides, drivers, food, wine. We didn’t want to come home! You put together an incredible trip. Thank you so much. Mark and Janet
Just want you to know, we had the time of our lives, thanks to you. Can’t thank you enough. Varenna and Venice brought tears to our eyes. My sister found peace and I came alive. Lake Como ... the Cinque Terre ... Milan were all magic. I love Italy and only want more. Ti amo Sandy. Vickey
We are back and over jet lag. I wanted to say thanks again for a wonderful trip to celebrate the graduation of our oldest son. Things went very smoothly and it was everything we had hoped it would be. The villa was great. Truly beautiful. I loved, loved, loved Siena. The pizza class was great fun.....highly recommended. Loved talking to our boys while making pizza side by side. Funny how much they have to say when there's no internet connection. Michelangelo's David was breathtaking and our guides were terrific. I cherished the time with my family. We felt safe and cared for the entire way so thanks again. The Phillips Family
Sandy, we are back home in Sugarland after a great trip! Thank you for your help, everything went very well. A nice combination of planned and free time. The guides were outstanding; very personable and packed with information! The Morrow Family
I wanted to thank you for putting together such a wonderful Christmas trip to Italy. It really was top notch and your assistance really made the trip. As you know, our first stop in Italy was supposed to be Florence. The airline, however, decided mid-flight to divert our flight to Pisa. fter twenty-four hours of traveling, the last thing we wanted to do is take a long bus ride back to Florence to meet our driver. To our surprise and great relief, our driver was there waiting for us in Pisa! That alone set the services of Che Bella far ahead of what is normally expected.
Giovanni was a wonderful driver and we had so much fun with him. You can really tell how passionate he is about sharing the wonderful things Italy has to offer with others. In Florence, Susanna was incredibly knowledgeable about all the sites, and your guide helped us hit all the main attractions. In Rome, Francesco also a great guide. And the food! Your recommendations were spot on. I think I could live on fresh pasta forever. We were very pleased with your attention to detail and the high quality of the drivers and guides. We hope to use you again and have already recommended you to friends. Thank you again for a memorable experience. Lauren and Trey
Until the next time ... muchas gracias!
Laura
Our trip to Spain was fabulous in every way. Thank you for all your care and thoughtful planning. You were our tour guide but it felt more like traveling with a good friend. When we lost our passports you jumped in to save us so thank you for everything. Your passion for travel is enhanced because of your kindness and patience. Loved all the tapas crawls with you and the gang. My absolute favorite experience was the Turkish Baths. All the breakfasts were great. I particularly liked the hotel in Ronda. All local tour guides were also very good, and having their insights into the history was really terrific. All dinners were great too. God I'd give anything to go back there again! So in summary we loved traveling with you and hope to use Che Bella again in the future. Appreciate all your attention to detail and giving us options along the way. Well Done Sandy and hope you are home and happy.
Joe and Susan
Thank you very much for a great trip! We had a wonderful time and it was great to be introduced to Spain "Sandy Style!" We take with us some incredible memories. And thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your insights and suggestions for our post-tour in Paris. Dan and Alara
Once again, Sandy, a great adventure! Enjoyed meeting the group and seeing parts of Spain I've always wanted to experience. Even though I was traveling on my own, I loved being with this group and will never forget the laughter and good cheer. Looking forward to traveling with you again next June to France. Ruth
Che Bella Tours is the best. First-Class all the way. Our trip to Italy was very organized. We didn't have to worry about anything. Our guides were interesting, informative and fun. We felt safe and secure with our drivers. (Oh, and very handsome!) The food was excellent, I loved trying wild boar and of course, the wines. I loved learning how to make pasta and Gina was a great teacher and host. The trip went way too fast. I will travel with Sandy and Che Bella Tours for all of my vacations. Lorie G.
Our dearest, Sandy: Thank you so much for our fabulous adventure to Italy! We will never forget it. Loved everything and will never travel without you!!!! Maggie, Preston, Bethaney and John
This year I turned 80, Queen Elizabeth turned 90 and we both celebrated our birthdays in style! Sandy, you took us on a beautiful trip across the pond and made my dream come true. You gave me your arm and showed us London and the beautiful cottages of the Cotswolds. Tasting tours, fine dining, Pimms cups with fish and chips at the pub. We scoured the sights of London and kicked up our Kinky Boots at the theater. Then ASCOT, being so very English for the day in our hats and finery, seeing the Queen arrive in her carriage and even winning a few bets on the races. It was My Fair Lady 2016. Loverly! Geraldine
Thank you so much for taking such good care of our family throughout our time in Tuscany and the Emilia-Romana. You made our trip so special with your wonderful guidance, flexibility, recommendations, and insight into the real Italy. We appreciate all you did to keep all 35 of us on track, appeal to everyone from our 5 year old nephew to Granny, and make this a fun family reunion we will always remember. Can you come home with us? The Smith Family
We had an absolutely fabulous time in Italy. Everything was perfect. Hotels, villa, guides, drivers, food, wine. We didn’t want to come home! You put together an incredible trip. Thank you so much. Mark and Janet
Just want you to know, we had the time of our lives, thanks to you. Can’t thank you enough. Varenna and Venice brought tears to our eyes. My sister found peace and I came alive. Lake Como ... the Cinque Terre ... Milan were all magic. I love Italy and only want more. Ti amo Sandy. Vickey
We are back and over jet lag. I wanted to say thanks again for a wonderful trip to celebrate the graduation of our oldest son. Things went very smoothly and it was everything we had hoped it would be. The villa was great. Truly beautiful. I loved, loved, loved Siena. The pizza class was great fun.....highly recommended. Loved talking to our boys while making pizza side by side. Funny how much they have to say when there's no internet connection. Michelangelo's David was breathtaking and our guides were terrific. I cherished the time with my family. We felt safe and cared for the entire way so thanks again. The Phillips Family
Sandy, we are back home in Sugarland after a great trip! Thank you for your help, everything went very well. A nice combination of planned and free time. The guides were outstanding; very personable and packed with information! The Morrow Family
I wanted to thank you for putting together such a wonderful Christmas trip to Italy. It really was top notch and your assistance really made the trip. As you know, our first stop in Italy was supposed to be Florence. The airline, however, decided mid-flight to divert our flight to Pisa. fter twenty-four hours of traveling, the last thing we wanted to do is take a long bus ride back to Florence to meet our driver. To our surprise and great relief, our driver was there waiting for us in Pisa! That alone set the services of Che Bella far ahead of what is normally expected.
Giovanni was a wonderful driver and we had so much fun with him. You can really tell how passionate he is about sharing the wonderful things Italy has to offer with others. In Florence, Susanna was incredibly knowledgeable about all the sites, and your guide helped us hit all the main attractions. In Rome, Francesco also a great guide. And the food! Your recommendations were spot on. I think I could live on fresh pasta forever. We were very pleased with your attention to detail and the high quality of the drivers and guides. We hope to use you again and have already recommended you to friends. Thank you again for a memorable experience. Lauren and Trey
2015 TRIP REPORTS |
We chose Che Bella Tours to take our family on a "once in a lifetime" trip through Spain. There were 18 of us in all with age ranges from 18 months to 52 years old - quite a diverse group. Sandy is the consummate tour guide - full of energy, knowledge and has the ability to enjoy each moment. We are so grateful for her restaurant recommendations, sightseeing ideas and shopping tips. I would highly recommend using Sandy for any trip. We can't wait to use her again. She makes traveling a joy...she is simply the best!! THE CULLEN-CONWAY-DRAB-ALI FAMILY, AUGUST 2015
For our honeymoon, my husband and I really wanted to visit Italy, so we did some research on the places we wanted to visit and explore. We narrowed it down to Rome and Tuscany, and then began pricing the different hotels, tours, rental cars, etc. By happenstance I heard a radio ad for Che Bella Tours and realized that they offered exactly what we were looking for in Italy -without any of the hassle!
Sandy Gregory, our Tour Director was really helpful, responsive and enthusiastic from the very beginning. She gave us good advice about choosing flights and sent us a packing guide too.
Once in Italy, Sandy proved to be just as knowledgeable about the history, art and customs as the professional guides who led us on our private tours of the Vatican and the famous cathedrals and duomos in Tuscany. Each day, as we headed towards another beautiful location, Sandy would give us a breakdown of the day ahead, and give us options for exploring, shopping and dining with various options from being totally on our own or having her along as a guide and/or lunch dinner companion. It was great to be able to wander around by ourselves, trying our Italian out and discovering the magic of each place on our own, and also to have Sandy meet up with us at certain times to check in and give us more insights or advice about places to see.
The local guides that Sandy arranged for our private tours were art history experts and they really opened up the experience of each place for us. It can be a bit overwhelming to be surrounded by so much Renaissance art, so a knowledgeable guide is really important. Plus, we were whisked to the front of the very long lines to see the Vatican museum in Rome and The David in Florence!
The hotels where we stayed were wonderful. If you have an opportunity to take a Che Bella Tour - do it! The experience offered is so rich. It is not just a tour, but a true appreciation and immersion in the culture and art and lifestyle of the country you are visiting. Kelly & Robert
Sandy’s enthusiasm, knowledge and love of all things Italy made this such a memorable experience! The variety of activities provided something for everyone. Each day was a new experience; marveling at the great architecture and art, perusing the shops in the Tuscan Hill towns, lounging at the spa’s pool, taking a cooking class in a 900-year-old mill, wine tastings, visiting the monastery of St Francis and free time to relax or explore on your own. A perfect blend of nourishment for the mind, body and soul. Michelle
Sandy Gregory is a wonderful and very knowledgeable guide. She is thoughtful and thorough in planning daily activities for our ladies' group in Tuscany. It was so freeing to not have to worry about things like transportation or reservations – things that can often cause frustration and missed opportunities when visiting other countries. She also has taken the time to develop good relationships with the people who added depth and authenticity to our experience. Laura and Emmy
I could not imagine a better tour experience! Sandy Gregory is an absolute treasure. Her knowledge and her attention to individual and group needs are incredible. She makes every guest feel special and goes out of the way to give each person the 'trip of a lifetime' experience. Sylvia
Sandy is a consummate professional whose expertise and knowledge of history, sites, restaurants, cuisine and wines was amazing. She is conscientious, organized but flexible, vivacious, energetic, fun and caring as well as a generous people-pleaser who always checked for understanding and provided surprise treats, music and films, and then asked, 'Is there anything else I can do for you or get for you?' She skillfully orchestrated this varied group of individuals into a fun-loving close-knit family. Bradley & Lynn
There needs to be a category above highly satisfied! Sandy was THE absolute best Tour Captain we could ever have hoped to have. She went above and beyond any expectations in searching out requests that some group members had, and was ALWAYS upbeat and positive ... never letting anything personal stand in the way; she was the greatest! Alan & Yvette
Sandy’s personality and professionalism are the perfect recipe for a fantastic tour director. Logistically, she always made sure that everything happened as scheduled but, in addition, she was always concerned that we were doing what we desired to do while on vacation and that we were having a great time. This speaks highly of her extreme customer focus, her excellent organizational skills and her overall demeanor. We concluded early in the trip that we really were not going to have to worry about much other than enjoying ourselves. If you ever get the opportunity to travel with Sandy Gregory, you will be guaranteed a well executed itinerary, a wealth of local insight at each destination and an exceptional travel experience! Rick & Sharon
I cannot recommend an art tour with Sandy and Joanna Coke. oanna’s strong background in figurative and landscape painting make her the perfect host to capture the magical landscapes of Tuscany. Her past studies in Paris, Rome, Venice and Florence provide the experiential background to guide guests in this artistic Italian tour. I am just one of her many devoted following of students in Sarasota, Fla., who enjoy her teaching style and engaging sense of humor and presentation. Chris
For our honeymoon, my husband and I really wanted to visit Italy, so we did some research on the places we wanted to visit and explore. We narrowed it down to Rome and Tuscany, and then began pricing the different hotels, tours, rental cars, etc. By happenstance I heard a radio ad for Che Bella Tours and realized that they offered exactly what we were looking for in Italy -without any of the hassle!
Sandy Gregory, our Tour Director was really helpful, responsive and enthusiastic from the very beginning. She gave us good advice about choosing flights and sent us a packing guide too.
Once in Italy, Sandy proved to be just as knowledgeable about the history, art and customs as the professional guides who led us on our private tours of the Vatican and the famous cathedrals and duomos in Tuscany. Each day, as we headed towards another beautiful location, Sandy would give us a breakdown of the day ahead, and give us options for exploring, shopping and dining with various options from being totally on our own or having her along as a guide and/or lunch dinner companion. It was great to be able to wander around by ourselves, trying our Italian out and discovering the magic of each place on our own, and also to have Sandy meet up with us at certain times to check in and give us more insights or advice about places to see.
The local guides that Sandy arranged for our private tours were art history experts and they really opened up the experience of each place for us. It can be a bit overwhelming to be surrounded by so much Renaissance art, so a knowledgeable guide is really important. Plus, we were whisked to the front of the very long lines to see the Vatican museum in Rome and The David in Florence!
The hotels where we stayed were wonderful. If you have an opportunity to take a Che Bella Tour - do it! The experience offered is so rich. It is not just a tour, but a true appreciation and immersion in the culture and art and lifestyle of the country you are visiting. Kelly & Robert
Sandy’s enthusiasm, knowledge and love of all things Italy made this such a memorable experience! The variety of activities provided something for everyone. Each day was a new experience; marveling at the great architecture and art, perusing the shops in the Tuscan Hill towns, lounging at the spa’s pool, taking a cooking class in a 900-year-old mill, wine tastings, visiting the monastery of St Francis and free time to relax or explore on your own. A perfect blend of nourishment for the mind, body and soul. Michelle
Sandy Gregory is a wonderful and very knowledgeable guide. She is thoughtful and thorough in planning daily activities for our ladies' group in Tuscany. It was so freeing to not have to worry about things like transportation or reservations – things that can often cause frustration and missed opportunities when visiting other countries. She also has taken the time to develop good relationships with the people who added depth and authenticity to our experience. Laura and Emmy
I could not imagine a better tour experience! Sandy Gregory is an absolute treasure. Her knowledge and her attention to individual and group needs are incredible. She makes every guest feel special and goes out of the way to give each person the 'trip of a lifetime' experience. Sylvia
Sandy is a consummate professional whose expertise and knowledge of history, sites, restaurants, cuisine and wines was amazing. She is conscientious, organized but flexible, vivacious, energetic, fun and caring as well as a generous people-pleaser who always checked for understanding and provided surprise treats, music and films, and then asked, 'Is there anything else I can do for you or get for you?' She skillfully orchestrated this varied group of individuals into a fun-loving close-knit family. Bradley & Lynn
There needs to be a category above highly satisfied! Sandy was THE absolute best Tour Captain we could ever have hoped to have. She went above and beyond any expectations in searching out requests that some group members had, and was ALWAYS upbeat and positive ... never letting anything personal stand in the way; she was the greatest! Alan & Yvette
Sandy’s personality and professionalism are the perfect recipe for a fantastic tour director. Logistically, she always made sure that everything happened as scheduled but, in addition, she was always concerned that we were doing what we desired to do while on vacation and that we were having a great time. This speaks highly of her extreme customer focus, her excellent organizational skills and her overall demeanor. We concluded early in the trip that we really were not going to have to worry about much other than enjoying ourselves. If you ever get the opportunity to travel with Sandy Gregory, you will be guaranteed a well executed itinerary, a wealth of local insight at each destination and an exceptional travel experience! Rick & Sharon
I cannot recommend an art tour with Sandy and Joanna Coke. oanna’s strong background in figurative and landscape painting make her the perfect host to capture the magical landscapes of Tuscany. Her past studies in Paris, Rome, Venice and Florence provide the experiential background to guide guests in this artistic Italian tour. I am just one of her many devoted following of students in Sarasota, Fla., who enjoy her teaching style and engaging sense of humor and presentation. Chris