This time of year is always hectic for our family. The kids are adjusting to new challenges at school. The volunteering for all kinds of things begins. And I always head to Italy. Next week, in fact.

Here are some of the experiences awaiting me during the 15 days I’ll spend in Italy:

A hotel on the edge of Florence, instead of right in the center. Here’s where: Il Salviatino. I’m thinking that “stunning and perfectly hand restored 15th century villa that lies proudly on the hillside of Fiesole”, with views right onto Brunelleschi’s famous dome, will be a great way to recover from jet lag. Il Salviatino provides complementary shuttle service to and from the center of Florence whenever clients so request.

Tasting of fragrant olive oil made from two different corners of Tuscany, with some of the subtle nuances explained by my friend Janet, an American ex-pat who’s an expert in this field

Dining al fresco at Janet and Italian husband Stefano’s home … an 11-course meal that includes homemade bread and focaccia, locally-sourced beef including the most delicate carpaccio I’ve ever eaten, many many vegetables from their garden, and Stefano’s expertly marinated white anchovies

Tastings with the winemaker at a boutique winery normally not open to the public; I may even take a helicopter ride across a corner of Tuscany to get there!

Learning about Lucca, a favorite among those who return to Italy often, from extraordinary local guide Tiziano. There will be time to stroll with the locals around Lucca’s famous garden-topped walls, which completely encircle the town and offer the perfect walk on a balmy afternoon.

“Working” through a series of single origin chocolates at Italy’s top boutique chocolatier, founded and owned by an amazing female entrepreneur; their “Number 9” won best chocolate in the world in 2011!

Taking in the Tuscan hills through gentle hiking, followed by a kitchen experience at a handsome agriturismo (Italian farm). Red. white and green bruschetta anyone?

Pairing very small production local wines with hand-crafted foods at our final dinner up in the Tuscan hills.

Sound tempting? Click below to learn more!