GOLDEN WEEK IN THE ITALIAN LAKES:

For Women Only

May 24 – June 1, 2025
1 SPACE AVAILABLE – RESERVE TODAY!
info@italyvacations.com

led by Author Susan Van Allen

Susan exceeded my expectations! Would love to tour with her (and the ladies) again!
-Tina, Colorado

Susan Van Allen, 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, Women's Tours Italy, Small Group Tours Italy

Join Susan Van Allen, author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, for an inspiring springtime adventure in Italy’s beautiful Lake region. We’ll immerse ourselves in this wonderland that’s inspired poets and painters, fully experiencing three diverse lakes: Maggiore, Como, and Orta. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of snow covered alps, sparkling waters, and vibrant gardens bursting into bloom, we’ll discover gorgeous palazzos, quaint villages, and meet wonderful locals. Highlights include 7 nights in lake view rooms at a historic 5-star luxury hotel, a hands-on cooking class, day in marvelous Milan, artisan shopping, private boat excursions, as well as extraordinary wine and food every step of the way.

This is a gift of La Dolce Vita=The Sweet Life, custom-designed and led by Susan so that wonderful women like you can fully enjoy the rejuvenating pleasures of the Bel Paese.

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Depart from USA
Day 2: Welcome to Stresa with Cocktails and Dinner
Day 3: Delicious Tastes of The Lakes
Day 4: Lake Maggiore’s Splendid Islands
Day 5: Marvels of Milan
Day 6: Mystical Lake Orta
Day 7: Wonders of Lake Como
Day 8: La Dolce Vita/ Farewell Dinner
Day 9: Arrivederci Stresa

May 24 – June 1, 2025
$7290 per person sharing a double room
$8490 per person for single room
$350 Deposit to reserve
Balance Due March 15, 2025
1 SPOT AVAILABLE – RESERVE TODAY!
Contact Susan at 100placesinitaly@gmail.com


Full Itinerary:

*Itinerary subject to change. If because of weather or unforeseen circumstances changes need to be made, replacement events will be equally as awesome as above.

*Activity Level: We explore at a leisurely pace, always leaving time to stop and taste the prosecco. Comfortable walking shoes are necessary, as the villages we visit and the historic center of Milan are pedestrian only, and we will be touring gardens that are terraced and have steps. Also be advised that there are ferry and private boat rides, so precautions should be taken for those with motion sickness.

What’s Included:

  • Entertaining hosting by author Susan Van Allen, focusing on Italy’s celebration of all things female
  • 7 nights at 5 Star Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees & Spa in Stresa in lake view rooms 
  • Transportation by private minibus, including roundtrip transfers from Milan Malpensa airport, shared with other group members arriving or departing at similar times
  • Daily buffet breakfast at the hotel
  • 2 multi-course dinners, with wine
  • 1 cooking class followed by lunch
  • 3 lunches at local restaurants, including wine
  • Private Boat tour of Borromeo Islands on Lake Maggiore, including guided visit to villa and gardens of Isola Bella, and lunch on Isola Pescatori
  • Guided tour of Milan, including visit to the Last Supper, Galleria and Duomo, with charming local expert. Whisper headsets included 
  • Guided tour of Lake Orta
  • Cheese tasting in Arona 
  • Private Boat tour of Lake Como, including visits to Villa Carlotta gardens and Bellagio 
  • Entrance fees to museum and monuments
  • Travel journal and optional writing workshops 
  • Gratuities for all group activities
  • Charitable donation of $25.00 to UNICEF

What’s Not Included:

  • Airfare
  • Meals not specified in itinerary
  • Gratuities for private transfer drivers and hotel staff
  • Optional travel insurance
  • Everything not mentioned under “What’s Included”

La Dolce Vita!

What a wonderful week. Susan’s attention to detail, expertise and genuine love for Italy was infectious and made the week so special…”
–Diane, South Carolina

The week is expertly designed and hosted by Susan Van Allen, with a balance of planned group and free-time independent experiences.

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A Toast to Golden Weeks

Rebecca, Oklahoma

Experience of a Lifetime

“This has been an Experience of a Lifetime!!! Susan’s knowledge, her previous experience, and most especially the relationships that she has developed in Italy are priceless and invaluable to the overall exceptional experience!! I Highly Highly Recommend Golden Week!”

Southern Italy
Florence, Canada

Wonderful!

This was my first trip to Italy & I’m so glad it was with Susan Van Allen. It was so great to go to a different place each day. Whether we went by ferry or bus each trip was an unforgettable experience. I was sad when the trip was over, but our farewell dinner was absolutely delicious and a great ending to a wonderful tour. The trip was well organized, informative, and totally enjoyable.

Denise, New Jersey

One in a Million

Susan Van Allen is truly “One in a Million”!! Susan puts her all into designing the most creative itineraries with exceptional attention to every detail. She cares so much about her clients’ individual needs and makes every woman feel like an Italian Princess. Warm, Caring, Funny, Intelligent… a true expert on everything Italy. My Mother and I have taken two trips with her so far and cannot express how much we loved everything about them! I would recommend Susan to everyone who wants the best experience of Italy and to have those memories to cherish forever.

Gale, Vermont

Warm As The Sun

“After spending several days with Susan I came to realize her love for Italy is as deep as the Mediterranean, she is as warm as the sun that sets in Capri…”

Southern Italy
Deanna, New York

Dream Come True

“My dearest Susan, My deepest appreciation for making our trip to Southern Italy a dream come true. Although I had been there some time ago, nothing compared with the wonderful time we had with you. Not only as our guide, but as a new dear friend, you made the entire trip an experience I will never forget. Each one of the girls became like sisters. Your beauty, charm, humor, and kindness was more than I ever expected. I haven’t stopped talking about our trip.”

Southern Italy
Donna, Pennsylvania

Excellent

A tremendous learning experience at each site. Guides were excellent.

Beth, New York

Wonderful!

This trip was unlike any trip I’ve ever been on. From the booklet that Susan sent prior to the trip to our daily text messages, everything was organized and well-planned — plus Susan kept us informed every step of the way. Even when the weather upended our plans, Susan pivoted and provided wonderful alternatives. Being able to stay in one hotel — and what a wonderful hotel it was! — provided us with a familiar home base from which to set out on our daily adventures.

But the best was spending a week in the company of a group of compatible women — we came from different backgrounds and perspectives but we blended into a group of women who enjoyed each others’ company. Plus, it was a perfect number of travelers — not too many and not too few. Thank you, Susan, for creating this experience and for such great memories! I hope I can join you on another trip in the future!

Tina, Colorado

Exceeded Expectations

“Susan exceeded my expectations! Would love to tour with her (and the ladies) again!”

Italian Lakes
Laura, Alabama

Perfect

“Susan made me feel like every detail of this week was planned for me personally. I did have reservations about going on a scheduled tour, but was delighted to see the activities were not rigidly dictated by time constraints. I was not rushed through to keep to a strict schedule, but allowed enough time to enjoy each activity. I also appreciated the amount of free time that was built into the schedule. It allowed me to personalize my experience in this beautiful city. Perfect.”

Florence
Kay, Chicago

Changed My Life

“Dear Susan, Your zest for Italy and life and independence for women traveling, changed my life and led me onto more amazing travels and new friendships world wide!!”

Southern Italy & Italian Riviera
Laurie, California

Great!

Susan was a great tour director! She was very organized, took care of us, and was very interested in getting to know each of us.

Helen, Maryland

Wonderful Adventure

“Dear Susan, I can never thank you enough for that wonderful adventure we got to share with you. It is right at the top of my favorites…it was just so beautiful there you simply have to see it to believe it. This is the only time in my traveling life that I really wanted to stay. I think I should quit traveling now because I have seen the best with the best.”

Southern Italy
Patti, Massachusetts

Extraordinary

This is an extraordinary tour. You feel like a privileged Venetian insider when you spend a Golden Week in Venice with Susan Van Allen, visiting both the must-see sights and the hidden treasures of this beautiful city. And Susan, an extraordinary guide, makes everyone feel relaxed, as she shares her love and deep knowledge of Italy with the group.

Dee, New York

Awesome, as Always

“Awesome, as always! (Venice 2018)
I’d go on vacation with Susan anytime. She really works hard to make sure everyone is safe and having a good time. The food, the shopping… wish I was still there.”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Ellen, Montana

Great Trip

Great trip led by Susan! The group of women were diverse and fun to be with. We had a lot of laughter!

Lisa, Illinois

Fantastic

“Fantastic! A great combination of busy and relaxing.”

Tuscany
Kim, California

Trip Was Fabulous

“The BEST way to begin retirement was to be with Susan and two of my close friends from childhood in Italy!! Overall the trip was fabulous!! Susan is the BEST, so knowledgeable, so helpful, so gracious, and immediately a close friend!”

Southern Italy
Mary, Florida

The Best

“Susan was just the best. She did a super job. I look forward to taking another trip with her.”

Southern Italy
Kim, Connecticut

Fantastic!

Susan Van Allen was fantastic! Loved every day on the tour! Thank you!!!

Nancy, Texas

It Was Great

“I will recommend this trip to anyone and would love to join Susan again for a trip….it was great!”

Southern Italy
Edie, Pennsylvania

Spectacular

“Dear Susan, My compliments to you on our tour of Southern Italy. Your knowledge of Southern Italy, your gifts, meals, just you Susan, you planned it well. The tour was nothing short of spectacular!! You are the Jewel  of Southern Italy.”

Southern Italy
Florence, Pennsylvania

Total Delight!

The entire trip was a total delight! Well organized, so many different adventures, people were wonderful!

Christine, California

A Great Time

“A great time traveling with Susan Van Allen, she takes great pride with her groups. I loved traveling with all the ladies and sharing this experience with all.”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Joye, New Hampshire

Magical

Susan Van Allen’s warm, friendly and very personable manner was spread amongst each of us. Her unfailing enthusiasm and personal attention made my Golden Week in Venice unforgettable. I will always remember my magical trip to Venice.

Peggy, Ontario, Canada

Personal Service

“Love the personal service all along the way…Susan takes us all on a journey that brings every aspect of Italy to life!”

Italian Riviera & Florence
Sheree, West Virginia

Best Travel Guide Ever

“Susan Van Allen is the BEST Travel Guide ever! Her expertise and knowledge was the key to everything! Susan takes you to places you would never find on your own! I would absolutely refer her to anyone! And I myself would travel with her again!”

Chris, Massachusetts

Inspirational Guide

“Susan is an inspirational guide who creates an aura of beauty and joy in some of the most beautiful places in Italy! Truly fell in love with Florence—so much so that began to plan a return trip with Susan almost as soon as we returned. Highest of recommendations only!”

Florence
Debbie, Connecticut

Thoughtful Planning

“Thank you for such a wonderful and memorable trip. The tour far exceeded my expectations and that was primarily due to your thoughtful planning and meticulous execution. You took care of every detail and I just loved that you made sure everyone was always taken care of. The women on the trip were all lovely and, of course, that added to the positive experience.”

Southern Italy
Ginny, Connecticut

Loved

I loved how Susan blocked coffee breaks into the day, as well as aperitivi! I think the pacing is good on these trips—a nice balance.

Joyce, Virginia

Wonderful Trip

“What a wonderful trip. Susan made it all so enjoyable and fun – and always with the exclamation point to finish each day. Our group managed to mesh very well. It is always nice to let people go at their own pace.”

Florence
Carol, Virginia

Wonderful!

It was a wonderful trip!

Jolene, California

Enjoyed Ever Moment

“My thanks to Susan Van Allen for making her book come to life!!! I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this Golden Week. Susan’s heartfelt desire for everyone to enjoy their time was evident each and every day.”

Florence
Sarah, New Mexico

First Class

“Susan made this trip First Class! My adventure to Venice this year was a solo trip. I met all the women along with Susan the first night. It was like Susan had hand picked each one of us to enjoy this experience together. We all became friendly right away. Each day sharing a meal, walking together, shopping, getting to know each other had created a special bond. We cared for one another, we watched out for one another throughout the whole week. By how the week unfolded, it was apparent that Susan had gone to great lengths to ensure our comfort, safety, and entertainment. I had an opportunity to learn to row a gondola. After the rowing lesson, I got off the boat taxi near the hotel- there was Susan- waiting for me. She was there making sure I was safe and interested to know my experience. I think I read on Susan’s website that when you take a tour with her you will feel like you’re traveling with your best friend. That’s a true statement. Can’t wait to do it again.”

Venice
Susan, Virginia

Outstanding!

On a Golden Week with Susan, her love of Italy shines through in each activity. The guides she chooses are outstanding and their passion for Italy is contagious. The trips are worry free from the moment you land in this beautiful country until it is time to say goodbye to new friends. I highly recommend Golden Weeks in Italy.

Christina, Massachusetts

Trip of a Lifetime

“Susan Van Allen infuses her tours with enthusiasm, engagement and enchantment! She is exceptional in her knowledge of the areas we visited and ensured we felt both part of a group yet individually independent. We had the trip of a lifetime last year, (Florence 2016), and this year was even better!!!! Hard to believe our first experience could be topped, but since it was—already saving up for the next trip with Susan!!!!”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Yvette, Virginia

Super Experience

“All in all, a super experience.”

Southern Italy
Helena, New York

Trip Extraordinary

“Susan Van Allen is amazing, she went above and beyond to make this trip extraordinary.”

Southern Italy
Diana, Oregon

Perfection

“Perfection! You gave us what you promised and then some. I think the biggest compliment was that I didn’t want to leave”

Southern Italy
Julie, Canada

Loved Our Golden Week

“I loved our Golden Week! Susan goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is having a good time and does her best to accommodate every need however necessary. The group size is ideal and having Fiorella as our guide was excellent. I hope to do another tour with Susan and would not hesitate to recommend these tours to friends.”

Southern Italy
Helen, California

Designed By An Artist

“This trip was clearly designed by an artist–everything flowed along beautifully, a delicious transformational experience of La Dolce Vita!”

Tuscany
Homa, Maryland

Amazing!

This was my first tour and I was a little worried. But this trip was soooooo good and I am going to book Sicily in 2024. Our group was amazing! Fun fun fun!

Janice, Massachusetts

Incredible Planning and Attention to Detail

I thought the trip was fabulous! Susan’s planning and attention to detail were incredible. Her desire to help each of us feel welcome, included, and safe was evident in everything she did.
I also appreciated the choice of places and activities that would appeal to women, including opportunities to shop. Each of the restaurants was excellent and the choice of menu for our meals together was varied and delicious.

While I really enjoyed all the sites and the fabulous guides that you hired, what I valued most was my times at meals and walking and talking with all the wonderful women whose company I so enjoyed.
The plate that I painted has a place of honor in my home as it reminds me of all the fun we had. And I love wearing the gloves and the jewelry that I purchased. Thank you so much for taking me shopping! I loved the trip.

Joyce, Virginia

Amazing

Susan is an amazing guide, and by the end of the week she is a good friend. I believe I would follow her anywhere. She sees to the needs of each person with care and makes sure that nothing is overlooked. She provides the best kind of unique travel experience. Sign me up for another!

Ready to Experience La Dolce Vita?

Say YES to this Adventure TODAY!
Space is limited and this tour Sells Out.

In Partnership with PERILLO TOURS, America’s Leading Tour Operator to Italy for over 70 years.

Contact Info:

TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE FOR GOLDEN WEEKS, or for more information, and to sign up for this adventure, contact Christine at Perillo’s Italy Vacations, info@italyvacations.com

Would you like me to custom-design a Golden Week in Italy for you and your family or friends?

Would you like to arrive early or extend your Golden Week in Stresa or Milan? Christine can arrange for discounted hotel rates and packages. Just ask!