A Mediterranean Cooking Experience at Relais Oasi Olimpia

There is not room enough to tell you how wonderful this trip was from beginning to end. The accommodations were superb, the staff at the hotel bent over backwards, yet they make it look pleasant and easy. Just charming... The excursions covered all the things i wanted to do and i felt safe and taken care of. I had not a worry ~ and that let me enjoy every moment of my first trip to Europe. Madelene T., VA

I can't imagine a more perfect way to celebrate a special birthday. The "Ciao Chows" are a group of eight women that for two decades have enjoyed adventure, food, travel, new experiences and extreme friendship together. The International Kitchen experience enabled us to do everything we love on one trip! The staff at the magical Oasi Olimpia treated us like long-lost family. The villa is like something out of a fairytale and the food and wine were spectacular. Our tours of the Amalfi Coast, Pompei, and Rome were so well orchestrated that we saw more in one week than we could have possibly experienced in a month on our own. And with a group of eight opinionated women, it was wonderful that this all-inclusive trip took all of the decision-making out of our hands-all we had to do was show up, eat, drink and take pictures! The opportunity to spend time with Rosa and Antonio on the family farm was about much more that just making mozzarella...it was a rare chance to experience their way of life. The same is true of the many local shop owners and artisans that we were introduced to in Sorrento. This trip was fabulous beyond anything I could have imagined---don't turn 50 without it! Candis K, CA

I'd like to start by saying, this was the best vacation of our lives. The Relais Oasi Olimpia is a five star hotel with a four star rating. Every member of the staff was warm hearted and friendly, and totally dedicated to our needs and well being. The rooms were large and comfortable, especially compared to the so-called four star hotel we stayed at in Rome. The general manager was extremely competent, resourceful, and accommodating. Whenever we made a request, or a scheduling change was necessary due to weather or some other reason, she handled all with speed and good nature, always exclaiming, "It's nothing!" when we thanked her. The cooking lessons were just what we had hoped them to be. Nothing too intense, (after all we were on vacation) but informative and easy to execute. I'm happy to say, Christine and I are quite competent now in producing a variety of delectable dishes we would be proud to serve anyone. Our boat tour to Positano was wonderful, our host Antonio piloted the boat to the picturesue little town, and later stopped at a cove where we swam in the Mediterranean and had an expertly prepared lunch. Our favorite tour was of the Mozzarella Factory, I won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for anyone. Suffice to say, don't miss it. Being Italian-American, this vacation awakened feelings in me long hidden. Personality traits that I have are prevalent in Southern Italy. I felt like I was among my own kind at last. I want to go back. Thomas & Christine L., NC

It was an outstanding experience. I cannot say enough about the wonderful hospitality, the dedication to you and your pleasure, and heart-warming attitudes the whole team at Oasis possess. The complete program (cooking, socializing, sightseeing, interacting with the people of the towns) is well planned and gives you a well-rounded experience of the region. Attendees should not worry about hidden costs or surprises at check out. Everything outlined in the itinerary is covered in total. Linda S., NJ

This trip was unbelievable!!! It far exceeded my expectations. Everything about the trip was excellent. The Villa was absolutely beautiful and the rooms, eating areas, sitting areas, etc. were all gorgeous. From the minute we arrived the staff was friendly, professional and attentive. I felt like my every need was anticipated and taken care of. The food was outstanding. The cooking classes were outstanding and so much fun! ...Special thanks as well to Luisa, Luigi, Paolo, Joanna and Augusto - all were excellent. The daily excursions were all fun. The sights were beautiful. I just can not say enough about this trip!!! I would love to go back. Terese D., NJ

Most relaxing and enjoyable trip I can remember--and I learned alot as well. I think I would change one thing--put the Neopolitan show on Thursday nite so the final night is less structured. I must say, however, that it was great in every way. We were talking and said we didn't know what you could improve to make it better, it was that good. Maureen G., CT

This was the trip of a lifetime. The hotel was beautiful, the staff went out of their way to ensure that our every need was met, and the cooking classes were amazing. Every dish that we prepared was wonderful and presented in a way that I am sure I will be able to reproduce the recipes at home easily. Not to mention the experience of making mozzarella and experiencing the area with local guides, it was the best. Guidebooks and photos do not do the Amalfi Coast justice. It was one of the most beautiful and charming places I have ever been. I did not want to come home... Shelly K., MN

Oasi Olimpia have given my friends, family and myself a truly extraordinary Italian vacation. One of our favorite days here started with a wonderful breakfast. We then traveled to Rosa's fabulous kitchen and she showed us how to make mozzarella cheese. We then went to her son's olive oil press, where he showed us how to press olives. Then off to Pompeii for a wonderful walking tour with a pizza snack on the way back. After a glass of wine in front of the fire, we entered the kitchen to learn how to make gnocchi, and then made dinner using the fresh mozzarella from the morning. Other highlights were the pizza party and the pasta making. We have all been to Italy before, but staying with you and experiencing Italy through an Italian kitchen has been unforgettable. Lorie B & Jeff Y, San Francisco, CA

We wanted you to know that our week with you was the most wonderful vacation ever. We have traveled and been all over the world, but nothing compares to our stay with you. The rooms were beautiful and comfortable. The chef was charming and great fun to cook with. Carmen and Giovanna took care of all our needs and always with a smile. Paulo and Giovanni were always ready with a gin and tonic or cappuccino. And finally, Maria and Lena kept us from making too much of a mess. This will remain in our memories and hearts forever. I can only hope that we might be able to return one day. Beverly M. & Les R.

Thank you for a wonderful vacation! You and your staff have been great- we felt night at home and had such a fun time! The service was amazing and the cooking classes were a blast. Thank you for taking great care of us making us laugh! We will send you some pictures. Best wishes! Amy & Gus B.

Thank you for a fabulous holiday. You and your staff are the best! The cooking classes were marvelous, the excursion fantastic + the service at the hotel un-matched by any. It was a true joy. Definitely 5 stars. Dina

Thank you for sharing your home, your cooking and your passion for life. You have the most beautiful smiles in all of Italy. Chintia V.

Fantastico! You've thought of every detail and created a wonderful Paradise here. I'm spoiled for future trips to Europe. Cooking with you, was such a great experience. Thank you for shaving your time, knowledge and smile with us! All the staff was great, beyond great. Mille grazie! Madelene T., VA

Oasi olimpia Relais is a piece of heaven right here on hearth. Your creation warms the hearts and souls of chose of us fortunate enough to share a portion of your dream. As a world traveler with many years of experience, you may trust that you are way up there with" The Best of The Best" With many wonderful memories, and a trace of sadness upon leaving. John M., MA

I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed my perfect week at the Oasi Olimpia Relais. The hotel is lovely and the Cooking Classes were so much fun- I learned so much! All of the people at the hotel made our stay wonderful! But, most of all, it was your warmth, sense of humor rest for life that made us feel as if we were visiting good friends and not just guests at a hotel. You are a beautiful person with a beautiful sprint-all the best! Arrivederci e Mille Grazie!

When I first phoned International Kitchen to inquire about booking a trip, I explained I was very confused because there were so many fabulous choices and I was wanting to "narrow down" the choices. So I requested a recommendation for a couple wonderful places. Oasi Olimpia was suggested and described to me as having a quality that was indescribable but should be experienced. I now know what that quality is... As if the surroundings, views, charm of the hotel itself, fabulous wine, interesting cooking classes and just plain fun weren't enough, [the staff] really made this trip over the top for me. I have traveled and been to many wonderful locations but this experience will never be forgotten... As I drive around every day (listening to Boccelli) I am flooded with fond memories of that week. Marybeth P., AZ

The combination of cooking and touring was perfect. I loved the visit to the farm and the trip to Capri. The hotel was comfortable, the staff was attentive and the scenery was beautiful. It doesn't get any better than that. Nina C., NJ

The setting was beautiful, the service topped anything else I have ever experienced, I hated to leave... I learned alot about cooking technique. Our group of six was a great, diverse mix that had fun together. Accomodations were excellent, staff so attentive, the excursions great, esp. Rosa 's mozzerella making, the private boat to Capri. I would happily return. Marleen F., WA

From the moment we arrived at the Oasi Olimpia Realis, the wonderous staff greeted us with offers of refreshments and comfort after our long journey. We knew immediately we were in for a treat, the setting gorgeous, the Relais refined and the accomodations superb. Our delight continued with cooking classes which taught recipies that can be replicated at home with ease. The classes themselves were a joy.... The side trips were wonderful as well as the planning of our activites inclusive with our very own driver. We could have not dreamed of a better experience, truly polite people and our time spent in Southern Italy has its own special place in our hearts. We will always remember this as one of the truly great vacations of a lifetime. Thank you again! Andiamo! Elaine & Amanda B., Coral Gables, FL

The classes, and the instructor were just wonderful. The number of participants was exactly right. We had eight in our group. The hotel was welcoming, and the staff warm and attentive. I personally liked the fact that I was doing several things that I had never tried before. The menus were not too difficult to create, and I have already made some of them since our return home. I had the most difficulty making the pasta. I think if I could have done it a second time then maybe the cosistancy would have been better. We enjoyed meeting our classmates, and having the time to get to know them during class... Sonnie & Bill D., Bethesda, MD

In a word "fantastico"! From the minute I drove up the drive way leading to the hotel I knew I had found my heaven on earth. The hotel and surrounding grounds were lovely. Just the exterior of the facility took my breath away. Before I entered the hotel I could feel the cares of my everyday life disappear... The interior of the hotel was beautifully furnished. The room, it's bath tub and most importantly, it's private terrace were incredible... I just don't know what was better: the hospitality, incredible service and authenticity of the staff, the other guests, the cooking lessons, the sightseeing excursions or the immediate rapport and camaraderie felt within my cooking - travel group. All I can say is I am saving up my euros and counting the days until I can go back! Jill Y., CA

It could not have been better--from the moment we arrived the attention and service was perfect. Every moment we spent in the kitchen was fun and filled with energy... We have already used several of the recipes we learned and told wonderful stories to our friends and family. The Inn is like heaven, the views are extraordinary and the staff is he best. Mark & Barbara B., IL

We had a great trip to Oasi Olimpia. The place was gorgeous, the town was fun, and most importantly the people there were sincere and welcoming. I got a lot out of the cooking classes, and the special tours set up for us were all very well done. It was awesome. Sara O., NY

Well what can I say about our week at Relais Oasi Olimpia! Firstly it exceeded our expectations in every way. The Villa itself was just superb and the setting was magical. We spent many evenings up on the rooftop watching the magnificent sunset over the Bay of Naples, glass of chilled white wine in hand. We were blessed with superb weather the entire week. Our room was beautiful and luxurious with large French doors opening onto Juliet balconies adorned with tubs of flowering geraniums. It was large enough to pass for a small apartment with an equally luxurious bathroom with Jacuzzi Tub. The cookery classes were both fun and informative and all of us had a superb time. The staff is all superb and ready to help you in any way they can. They fall over themselves to make you feel not only welcome but also to ensure every request is handled efficiently. We thought they were all wonderful, including the owner. The excursions were also superb but the most wonderful day of all was the day we spent on the Isle of Capri with our private boat. Swimming,eating,shopping,the Blue Grotto, circumnavigating the entire island. It was honestly one of the most wonderful days ever. I will never forget it. When we finally returned to port we were invited to join a boat procession by local fishermen commemorating their patron saint Antonio. Another wonderful experience. Our week came and went very quickly and soon it was time to pack our bags and return to Rome. I'm so glad I found your website, Karen, and I look forward to doing another of your courses if not next year then definitely in 2007. This time another country perhaps France. I'm sure you have many other venues as good as Relalis Oasi Olimpia but I'm sure it would be hard to beat on all counts! Thanks again Karen. It really was one of the highlights of our trip and I haven't stopped taking about it. I hope some more Australians will take our recommendation and use your company for their next vacation. Best regards, Craig H.

She prepared the most fabulous trips and meals for us to prepare. The 8 other people in our group along with the staff became like family to us. It was so hard to leave all our new friends. One of our most special days was when [the manager] arranged a private boat trip for us to the Island of Capri with a real fisherman; who prepared us a wonderful lunch and gave us an amazing tour around the island. We are already talking about going back. Thank you, Thank you, thank you for this vacation of a lifetime. Patty & Dawson B., OH

There is nothing I did not like about this trip. It was a fantastic experience. It was one of the best vacations I have ever taken. Our every need was tended to, even those we did not know we had... The group we had was fantastic. They were people from all over the United States with varied backgrounds and experiences with cooking and by the end of the week we were a big Italian family, sorry to leave one another... The property is beautiful, the setting fantastic and the hotel elegant. For me, one of the special moments was after I had asked [the chef] if she had any fresh figs and the next day before we left for the Amaalfi coast, she had for me (actually all of us - I did share) a flat full of fresh figs, the best I have eaten. The memories and food created and the friendships formed were all very special. I would have no hesitation about recommending this to anyone who enjoys cooking, even if a novice, and wants to be treated like a very special guest in someone's home. Lucy A., Oak Hill, VA

This was a fantastic experience!... Our only regret was that due to our other travel requirements we were only able to do the short version and missed the last day and a half! We have received e-mails from the other "students" along with photos. We will (and have) recommended the cooking school to others and feel it was the best part of our 2 week trip to Italy. We really loved meeting "Mama Rosa" and Roberto, learning how to make the best mozz[arella] we have ever tasted and look forward to completing the lemoncello we brought back with us. We look forward to trying the recipes and skills we learned at the school. Tom & Lynn W., Austin, TX

From the moment we arrived, we knew we had found a most special place... The cooking experience was fun, fun, fun. My husband (who has cooked twice in 25 years) had a marvelous time. Each day had something new and different to do without being overwhelming. We were never tired but felt we accomplished so much during the day! My friends and I felt it was a life-changing holiday. Michelle O., New Canaan, CT

We chose the week at Oasi as a family vacation-my husband, 21 year old son and myself. The cooking classes, while not challenging for me as an experienced cook, were a perfect combination of learning for the guys and delight for me to watch them gain confidence in the kitchen. The hotel and the staff were amazing. Never have we been treated with such care to our every need. Our very experienced driver, Antonio, was waiting for us each day to escort us on our next adventure. He was delightful to be with and we felt very safe with him as he navigated the challenging traffic of Southern Italy. We enjoyed all of our excursions, though I think our favorite was our day with Rosa and her son, Antonio, at their home. We felt that the personal attention and opportunity to be a part of Rosa's mozzarella making and touring around the property with Antonio (not to mention the limoncello) was something we never would have had access to otherwise. ... All in all our week was magical and I am recommending it to all my friends. Thank you for putting together a wonderful program. It was really a special way to experience Italy. Lori B., OR

A+ trip all the way. Hotel was spectacular, and the balance of cooking, sightseeing, hanging around was just right... I loved, loved, the breakfasts and our room overlooking the gardens and in the distance, the water. Peg did a good job of squiring us around and her Italian was a nice plus. Felt very coddled, which I guess is what you should feel on such a trip. The visit to Antonio and Rosa was a highlight, last night had an olive oil tasting comparing theirs to my brand here in NY and theirs was much smoother, better aftertaste. Really fun getaway vacation -- the women only theme was great. Thanks so much. Janice B., NY

I just returned from San Agata...Relais Oasi Olimpi. I am still in a state of bliss about the magnificent week I spent... My time there was as good as it gets. Great friends, great food, great wine, great learning experience, great expeditions to absorb the cultural highlights of the surrounding countryside, luxurious accomodations, and the highest standard of service... This program sets a new standard of excellence in culinary experiences. Congratulations and thank you. A special word of appreciation for Peg. She is one of your most valuable assets. Her command of the Italian language. Her understanding of the Italian history and culture. Her intelligence. Her sophistication. Her service orientation. Her ability to keep everything on a positive note. Her deft ability to herd cats. Her unflappable temperament. All of these qualities add value and make a huge contribution to the success of the program. She is a gem. This talented professional earned our profound respect. My compliments to the chefs of this program. April F.

The trip was outstanding. Every detail was planned and organized far exceeding my expectations. The Oasi Olimpia is a beautiful small hotel and everyone there went out of their way to make us feel comfortable, enjoy their country and the cooking experience... The International Kitchen and especially their representative, Peg, did an excellent job during that week which was organized and put together so exceedingly well and helping me to arrange an additional week in Italy with my husband. I would recommend The International Kitchen programs to anyone and hope to do another trip in the future. Thank you!!!! Suzy S., Ridgefield, CT

Dear Karen: In my first email to you I asked you to recommend your most romantic location for our 25th Anniversary. Well this wasn't just a romantic location, it was beyond our wildest dreams !!! Thank you, thank you, grazie mille ! This was, BY FAR, the most amazing place we have ever been to, EVER ! It wasn't just the Oasi Olimpia that was incredible it was all the people we met there and on the excursions. While the cooking lessons ... were the highlight of each day, being put up in the penthouse suite was extraordinary. The Oasi Olimpia is a jewel. A phenomenal diamond nestled into the Sorrento Peninsula filled with joyful people that exude warmth and charm. Our memories of being there will stay with us for many years to come. We know our best way to thank you will be to tell everyone we know of this great organization called The International Kitchen. Our very best regards, Jody and Peter, Toronto

I loved that the Relais Oasi Olimpia was "in the middle of nowhere" and yet an easy walk to town: S. Agata. The staff was ALWAYS attentive - anticipating your needs without being intrusive. I loved being able to sit ouside for most of our dinners. A special moment was the wonderful lunch with Antonio & Rosa after the magical mozzarella demonstration. I will never eat Mozzarella without thinking of her and it will never taste as good... My only complaint might be that we made too much food - we couldn't possibly eat it all. Deborah & Angela, Chicago

The whole week was a dream! The entire staff at the Oasi went above and beyond. The company/ies they used for transportation were very professional and interesting to talk to on the excursions. When we arrived in Naples, our luggage, unfortunately, did not. The ... As luxurious as the accomodations were, they paled, in comparison, to the excellent staff! We truly felt they were family. Jeanne K.

One of our best vacations ever! Each night we cooked was a party in the kitchen. Good friends, good wine, and a great setting. [The staff] made the atmosphere fantastic, and the cooking really enjoyable. The facilities were perfect, and the dishes and meals very organized and manageable. The food and wine were superb, and very appropriate for the region. The staff at Oasi became good friends and were very professional. Lunches at the pool were simple, yet upscale, not to mention the views. The excursions were great, and even our drivers were fun and informative. In the end the cooking nights were so much fun, we wished we could have had more time in the kitchen ... The combination of the Oasi Relais and the International Kitchen itinerary are a real jewel of the Sorrento peninsula and Amalfi coast... Karen gave us great advice, and we found just the vacation experience we were looking for. Eric & Donna M, NC

This trip was one of the best trips I have ever taken. The Almafi Coast was fantastic, the cooking school was professional and organized, the hotel and grounds were beautiful, the staff was warm and friendly. We were met at the Naples Train Station and from that point on, we did not have to make any decisions except what time to eat dinner. We loved going to the local farm and watch Rosa make cheese and then have a lunch cooked with all fresh ingredients. The week was capped off by a lovely dinner at a restaurant located in the hills above Sorrento. Thanks to Karen for making the suggestion!Carol S., CA

Dear Karen; I just returned from the most wonderful perfect vacation... I had the best time. [The staff] made us feel so special every single moment of our stay at the Relais oasi Olimpia. I didn’t want to return. The country is beautiful, the hotel was stunning. Every single person involved with the hotel is amazing. I loved cooking in the beautiful kitchen. I could have cooked all day. It was an inspiring trip. Thank you, thank you, and thank you. I can’t wait to go back……. Libby E., NY

My daughter, Tami, and I have just returned from the most wonderful cooking experience with Carmen and her staff at Relais Oasi Olimpia. It was our first trip to Italy as well as the new adventure of a cooking vacation and the total package couldn't have been more perfect! ... We would go back in a minute and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone who wants to experience the best of a Mediterranean Amalfi Coast cooking experience. Thank you so much for all your assistance. Shirley W.

Everything was wonderful. Nothing was left to chance. The moment we arrived we felt completely at home. Thank you Karen for recommending the Oasi Olimpia Relais, a true gem! Geraldine P., IL

This was a three generation girls trip. ages 25, 55, 79. It worked out well and even though chosen by the youngest member we all enjoyed it. The hotel staff was most cordial and helpful. Our time in Pompeii seemed too short, although we were all exhausted after two hours. Our time in Capri was not well spent, probably because we had not done enough research about what we would have time to do. We were excited to go there but disappointed. Amalfi Coast is indeed a spectacular drive. Here again time was too short to stop where we would have liked to. The cars and drivers were very polite and tried in most cases to do what we requested. Mary Lou S., IN

It was fantastic. We stayed in one of the new apartments and it was perfect for us. Everyone at the hotel was so wonderful... I loved the cooking classes. I am glad that they were in the morning, it gave us time to go and shower and change afterward. All of our drivers were extremely professional and helpful. The last dinner might have been the most delicious meal I have ever had.... I think Pompei should either be allotted more time or use a guide that will go at a slower pace. [The International Kitchen] staff was very helpful. Karen worked hard to find our tickets and offered to help us with hotels, etc. I really appreciate all of her efforts. Pamela P., NC

This trip went perfectly. It was a celebration for a 50th birthday and carefully chosen. We have traveled quite a bit in Europe and none of our accommodation has ever been as clean the Relais Olimpia. Georgeous flowers in our suite and wonderful spa products to use. The staff were superb! They remembered how we liked our coffee at breakfast and even our names! ... We had 6 in our group and all of us really liked being together. Most of the skills needed were basic and those who did not know how to do something were quickly shown. Our exucursion to Rosa's will forever bring a warm memory. Such a welcoming family. Now, to order the olive oil! The calamari experience was really funny and we all survived! We really liked the additional tours chosen in our packet. The drivers and tour guides made it extremely enjoyable, hassell free. We enjoyed incredible weather as well. Our trip to Capri will the most memorable... I have already recommended this to many others. Nancy G., TN

The hotel was fabulous. We loved it. The cooking classes where challenging, interesting and fun. Excursions where handled well and we where kept busy. Dona Rosa's mozzarella experience was fun and we loved it. Pompeii, Sorrento, Amalfi and Ravello...what more can anyone want? Luis L., TX

The kitchen at Oasi was one of the best parts of the experience. It was so spacious and bright. Since there were only three of us in the class, we had an incredible amount of personal attention, which also enhanced the experience. The Oasi is a wonderful hotel - it is so small and intimate. I felt like part of the family there. The staff was so accommodating and always available to assist me in any way. The highlight for me was the cooking classes. I only wish they had been longer and we had more time in the kitchen! Also, it would have been helpful to have received the recipes at the very beginning (we didn't get ours until the last cooking class). Although the apron was a great gift (and nice touch), it would have been great to receive the recipes in a nicely bound book (even something simple you could do at a Kinko's) with a space to write notes next to each recipe. Anna S., GA

From the moment of our arrival in Naples until our departure every aspect of this trip was beyond our expectations. The hotel was beautiful. The staff was wonderful and attentive. The food was excellent at the hotel. The excursions we awesome. Having lunch at Rosa's home after making cheese was a once in a lifetime experience. Visiting the ruins of Pompeii with the guide was incredible. Our driver Tony was the best and his tour of the Coast was perfect. We are experienced travelers and this trip was one of the best. We look forward to booking another vacation with your Company. Rest assured we have and will continue to tell all of our friends about this wonderful vacation and how first rate the entire experience was. Theodore S., PA

A Mediterranean Cooking Experience at Relais Oasi Olimpia: This was a very memorable experience as well.... The cooking kitchen was impeccable! The Relais was amazing, beautiful rooms, great service. I would and have recommended this program to many of my friends. Karen and Robyn were really helpful with my programs - they were also so efficient and kind in responding to my requests before and during my trip. I could call/email them at any time and they would respond immediately. Karen was a big help with providing me with reliable suggestions for hotel accommodations in other cities for my trip in Italy based on my budget and was also very kind to help me with making reservations. Joanna N., Vancouver, Canada

I travel to Italy every year. This was my 15th trip and it was by far the best vacation of my life. From the minute that Ermelinda and her staff greeted me at the front desk I felt as if I was with family. The chef, Gennaro was amazing, funny and gracious and all of the staff including our wait staff, Stefano and Danila were warm and accommodating. The property is beautiful and immaculate and the owner Salvatore has done a great job of hiring the right people. It is very apparent that they understand what "hospitality" means and that every detail is attended to. I will absolutely book another vacation through International Kitchen, hopefully next year, and would be happy to be a recommendation for prospective clients, particularly solo travelers. It was the perfect solution for me and well worth price. JoAnne B., NY

I wanted to take the time to write and give you feedback on our recent excursion with The International Kitchen. First, I want to thank you for all you did prior to the trip to ensure that we had a relaxing and hassle free trip. I travel frequently and have used many different tour companies, and I want to let you know that my experience with The International Kitchen was by far one of the best ever. And much of that had to do with the hard work and attention to detail on your end. So thank you very much. You were absolutely accurate in all of your accolades about [the Relais Oasi Olimpia]. The room was wonderful, the villa extraordinary, and the personnel incredible. I want to specifically mention Ermelinda. From the moment we arrived she was very enthusiastically attentive to every need and detail. Extra efforts such as changing our trip to Capri to make sure we could go on a day that was sunny were very appreciated. Her smile and friendly attitude are a very valuable asset to the entire experience and you should give Salvatore the positive feedback, as I know she is new. I feel I made a new friend for life! What can I say about Gennaro?!? He was fantastic. We learned so much and my husband had so much fun "playing in the kitchen" with him. His attention to effective communication was so important and of course, his knowledge is incredible. Not being new to Italian cooking, I know when someone is good, and Gennaro is very good. He is also a great teacher. He personally connected with every person and made each of us feel so special and never foolish with our attempts to create our culinary works of art... In conclusion, I again want to say that this was an awesome experience...I am so thankful to now know about your company and will not only recommend it to many of our friends and family, but will surely be using you again. My husband had such a great time that he is already planning our next "cooking vacation!" Vicky J., CO