One Man’s Take…. What he loved about our tour

Dear Dan and Deb,

I really felt compelled to write you a letter following our Puglia Trip 7-18 April 2026.  Simply put, it was one of the, if not the, best trip I ever took. For a career Marine and traveler to say that really means something.  Now let me tell you what I think made it special.

  1. YOU TWO… full stop!!! You are two of the most delightful people I’ve ever met. When you picked up our tour you had been on the go for over a month. Yet your level of enthusiasm and energy were as if this was your first group. I was impressed.  Your enthusiasm was contagious.  You two were the heartbeat of the group.  From day one you gave us permission to immerse ourselves in Puglia.
  2. Your connections and relationships. The connections you two have made over the years really benefited the group. I felt like I was invited into someone’s home everywhere we went. It is hard to describe how I felt at the Masseria’s, the walk about dinners and lunches. Everyone went all-out for us.
  3. The locations. You two have done an excellent job of selecting destinations, locations and tours. I never felt touristy.  All were an excellent balance between historic locations and free time. You really understand adult travelers.
  4. The group. I could not have picked a better group to travel with.  Everyone had a story to tell and was interesting to meet and share time with.  I haven’t laughed that hard in a long time and brother, I needed it.
  5. Your skills as a tour guide. As a retired Colonel I cannot help but watch and observe how things work.  I was duly impressed by the time you changed lunch destinations. Within the scope of 24 hours, you decided you did not like the old lunch place, found a new place within budget, and got it all organized.  I think you timed it for the wisteria blooming too. Bravo!!
  6. The bike rides. I signed up because of the bike rides.  Simply put…. They greatly exceeded my expectations. What a great way to see Puglia. 

Anyway, there it is.  I’m a believer.  Umbria, here I come.

Sincerely, Thomas L. Cariker, Colonel, USMC (Ret.)  “A.K.A. Tom”