Amore Siciliano

Katia & Ronald are excellent coordinators and provided language interpretation whenever needed. The excursions they arranged were likewise interesting and worthwhile. We cooked with different chefs at various locations, which was different from our experience last year when we were with Carmen Mazzola the entire time at Oasi Olimpia. There are pros and cons with each approach and we enjoyed the opportunity to experience the different approach and specialties of the various chefs. We did not do as much of the actual food preparation and cooking as we did last year; the chefs and their assistants did most of it, so the experience was not as "hands on" as we would have liked. This varied by chef. The Agriturismo where we stayed was very nice and recently renovated. The rooms were not air conditioned, but we did not need it since the weather was cool when we were there. Good information was provided. What we did not have were the recipes that we prepared. Katia mentioned that the chefs would provide them afterwards based on whatever we prepared, since they did not have a standard group of dishes used for the classes. We did receive the recipes after we returned home. The disadvantage to this approach is that we could not take notes on the recipes as we prepared them. Taking notes the previous year proved to be very helpful when we returned home and tried the recipes. The International Kitchen staff [was] very helpful staff, as usual. We look forward to an additional experience in 2008 in Tuscany and / or Umbria. Russ B., NJ

I had a wonderful experience in Sicily. The tour was co-ordinated by a young married couple who seemed to love what they were doing. They were fluent in English and Italian so I never felt that I was missing much since the chefs spoke only Italian. The Inn where we stayed was delightful, beautiful grounds and pool, gourmet restaurant, well appointed (Tuscan farm style) rooms and the hostess/owner went out of her way to accomodate guests. The tour aspect was interesting and diverse and inspired me to return with my husband! The tour combined historical information with food product sites such as wineries and a chocolate lab. Transportation tranfers were prompt and smooth. We are still waiting for the recipes. However I attribute this to the fact that the chefs cooked with what was fresh and available and have to write them up for the tour co-ordinators. Beverly R., NJ

We had a fabulous experience and have come back as food snobs... I went to a wedding on the Saturday (yes the dress just about fitted!) and they served up tomato, mozzarella and basil with olive oil for the starter... and it was rubbish. Far too cold, wrong type of tomato, almost no oil and it was poor quality and the basil was plonked on the side as if it was an addition instead of being integral to the dish.... so you see what a wonderful food critic I have become. My husband keeps apologising whenever he cooks anything... which is silly of course because he is a great chef and also I'm not so stupid to take his efforts for granted!!! Joanna N.

It was really a wonderful time for me and i so enjoyed meeting you both. The pace was perfect and in some ways the small group was probably a blessing because it allowed us to get to know each other." - Wendy S

Katia and Ronald, Thank you for a great week and for all your hard work in organising such a varied schedule and such delicious food and drink. Melanie S.