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Tuscany Culinary Adventure

Upscale tour operator Select Italy is offering a unique six-day culinary adventure in Tuscany which will totally immerse the visitor into the ancient traditions of local country life. Set in the restored medieval hamlet of Castello di Tocchi, the six night, intimate program named "La Cucina Del Castello" (the Kitchen of the Castle) includes a series of cooking lessons, wine tastings in Siena and San Gimignano, shopping in the famous San Lorenzo market in Florence, and side tours throughout the region.

The program is centered in the stunning 11th century fortified village of Castello di Tocchi. Accommodations and demonstration-style cooking classes, held in the Castello di Tocchi, is taught by chef Giancarlo Giannelli, a Tuscan chef for over 30 years and owner of the famed L�oste Poeta restaurant.

Guests explore recipes that have been passed on for generations. The guests, in addition to eating some of their own creations, are treated to the finest restaurants throughout the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

The tour is guided by Vittorio Cambria, a Tuscan native with a Ph.D. in Anthropology who specializes in the traditions of Tuscany. English-speaking Cambria draws guests into the cultural aura of Tuscany, and brings a higher level of understanding of Tuscan life and traditions.

"This is a very unique opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Tuscan life, and come away with cooking skills and recipes everyone will love," said Select Italy President Andrea Sertoli. "The originality of the tour lies in the serene countryside setting away from mass tourism, plus the expertise and traditional style of Chef Giannelli and guide Cambria. The cooking demonstrations are appropriate for all levels of experience in the kitchen; the only requirement is a love for fine food and a desire to learn the traditions of the Tuscan countryside." Sertoli noted that each six-day session is limited to only 14 people, creating a warm and intimate experience for participants.

The cost, including accommodations, lessons, trips, transfers, gourmet meals, and English-speaking guide is $2,400 per person, double occupancy.

Information is available by calling Select Italy at (847) 853-1661 or at www.selectitaly.com

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