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Italy with Vanessa Joy
Dates
Oct 9–15, 2023
Group Size
8–24 Travelers
Duration
7 days, 6 nights
About This Trip
Meet Your Host
View Full ProfileVanessa Joy
Since 2002, Vanessa Joy has been photographing weddings and portraits and educating pros worldwide. She focuses her business in the Austin, NJ and NYC area, and alongside her partnerships as a Canon Explorer of Light, Profoto Legend of Light. She helps pros take their businesses to the next level. To learn more visit: vanessajoy.com.
Trip Activities
Transfer Rome to Tuscany
Wine Tasting
Afternoon Photography Workshop
Morning Photography Workshop
Pasta Making Course
Florence Walking Tour
Transfer Tuscany to Rome
Included in Your Trip
Double Occupancy in 4-star Hotels
Local Guide throughout Trip
All City Transfers
Arrival Airport Transfer (until 5pm on first day)
Departure Airport Transfer (morning of last day)
6 Breakfasts and 4 Dinners
Not Included
International Flights
Food & Alcohol (except as noted)
Visas & Travel Insurance
Airport Transfers Outside of Designated Times
Tips for Guides
Itinerary
*All durations are approximate
Info
Airport Transfer
Airport Transfer
dinner
Included welcome dinner at a local restaurant, with two glasses of wine
Grand Hotel Palantino
(or similar)
Overnight in Rome
Info
breakfast
Included breakfast at hotel
Transfer Rome to Tuscany
Transfer from Rome to Tuscany
Wine Tasting
Enjoy a wine tasting at a local Tuscan vineyard.
Afternoon Photography Workshop
Enjoy photographing at a beautiful Tuscan winery. Focus on the scenery, wine-making or the model we'll provide while Vanessa is available for questions and will be photographing alongside you.
dinner
Included dinner at a local restaurant, with two glasses of wine
Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe Montecatini
(or similar)
Overnight in Tuscany
Info
breakfast
Included breakfast at hotel
Morning Photography Workshop
Post breakfast we'll sit down and chat about all things photography. Gear, experiences, posing, lighting, settings, this attendee-guided chat will be a fun time to just talk shop with Vanessa and each other.
Pasta Making Course
You will participate in a pasta-making course. The Italians claim to have invented well over 50 varieties of pasta and tonight your chef will lead a workshop on how to prepare a few types by hand.
dinner
Enjoy the pasta you made with a tasting of three different wines
Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe Montecatini
(or similar)
Overnight in Tuscany
Info
breakfast
Included breakfast at hotel
Morning Photography Workshop
It's time for a photoshoot in Florence. Get inspired by the Italian architecture, cultural vibe and much more. A model will be on site for those looking to improve their portraiture.
Florence Walking Tour
On this tour, you will walk the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci, Machiavelli, Michelangelo, and the greats. Find inspiration in the charm and enchantment of this bustling city.
Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe Montecatini
(or similar)
Overnight in Tuscany
Info
breakfast
Included breakfast at hotel
Morning Photography Workshop
Let's spend some time looking over our photos together and editing our favorites. This will be a relaxing time to sit together and co-work while looking back on our trip so far with Vanessa to give editing tips and photo critiques if desired.
Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe Montecatini
(or similar)
Overnight in Tuscany
Info
breakfast
Included breakfast at hotel
Morning Photography Workshop
This workshop will be up to you! Attendees will be surveyed before the trip to see if you'd like an over-coffee chat about social media and marketing, or another active photo shoot. The choice will be collectively yours!
Transfer Tuscany to Rome
Transfer from Florence to Rome
dinner
Included farewell dinner at a local restaurant, with two glasses of wine
Grand Hotel Palantino
(or similar)
Overnight in Rome
Info
breakfast
Included breakfast at hotel
Airport Transfer
Airport Transfer
Add-Ons
Private Accommodation
Essential Travel Information
Cancellation Policy
We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:
Spot Pending
Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip
Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
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FAQ
Traveling with TrovaTrip
What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?
Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.
How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?
Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:
- The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
- The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
- TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?
Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:
- The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
- The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
- TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?
First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:
- Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
- Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
- Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
- Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
- We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.
We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”
Can I book solo?
Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:
- Spot pending – 100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
- Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your trip – Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.
- Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your trip – Non-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
What's included in the trip cost?
Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.
Does my Host make money from hosting?
TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.
Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).
A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.
Will I have free time?
Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.
What do the activity levels mean?
Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:
- Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
- Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
- Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
- Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
- Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)
You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!
Accommodations
What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?
When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.
Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?
Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.
Trip Operations & Compliance
Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?
Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?
If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.
General Travel Questions
Do I need any documentation to travel?
It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise.
Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.
Do I need any vaccines?
It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!
Are flights included in the trip cost?
Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.
Can you accommodate my dietary needs?
We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.