Tuscany Region

Spend our arrival weekend in Florence, a timeless city where art, history, and romance intertwine. Nestled along the banks of the Arno River, this Renaissance jewel offers cobbled streets lined with grand palaces, elegant piazzas, and world-renowned museums. The air is imbued with the scent of fresh espresso, hot crepes drizzled with Nutella, and rich leather, while the magnificent dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore crowns the skyline. Whether wandering through the Uffizi Gallery, admiring the delicate jewelry of Ponte Vecchio, or savoring a glass of Chianti in a cozy trattoria or at a wine window, Florence enchants at every corner. Beginning with a welcome dinner on Friday evening, each day will offer a planned experience along with plenty of time to visit your own bucket list locations and of course, shop! Monday will see our group leave the city to visit Pistoia’s early childhood education centers, which have been a focus of international attention for over 20 years.

Evolving Itinerary

• Thursday – for those leaving the US, you will need to purchase a flight leaving no later than Thursday evening.
• Friday – Arrive in Florence and check in, Welcome Dinner
• Saturday – Mercato Centrale – Florence Food Market, Leather Market
• Sunday – Florence Foodies Walk, optional activities including Leonardo Interactive Museum, Boboli Gardens, etc. determined by participants
• Monday – A Day in Pistoia featuring AreeBambini Verde – a children’s area, ages 4-8, on the theme of nature and Nido il Grillo a preschool (10am-5pm). Travel to Reggio Emilia

Emilia-Romagna Region

Experience educational opportunities in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna Region in towns such as Reggio Emilia and Cavriago. As a group, we will base in the very walkable old town Reggio Emilia, known for its investment in its youngest citizens. While in Reggio Emilia, we will build a relationship with the city itself, with opportunities offered by Reggio Children, and with local ateliers and neighboring communities.

Evolving Itinerary

• Monday – Check in at Hotel Posta
• Tuesday – Workshop at Natura Maestra, Explore the historic city center of Reggio Emilia
• Wednesday – Visit Le Betulle or I’Tigli Preschool and Infant Toddler Center in Cavriago, Lunch and Dialogue with Educators and Civic Leaders
• Thursday – Guided Tour and Open Exploration at the Loris Malaguzzi International Center in Reggio Emilia, tour and workshop at the REMIDA – The Creative Recycling Center of Reggio Emilia, in it’s new location (3-6pm)!
• Friday – Follow up workshop at Natura Maestra and Final Reflections Gathering Ritual including Balsamic Vinegar Tour, Tasting & Dinner at Agriturismo Cavazzone
• Saturday – Depart Hotel