La Dolce Vita: A Culinary Journey Through Italy & Portugal

This unforgettable journey is more than a vacation—it’s a celebration of taste, culture, and the joy of living well. Designed for travelers who savor both beauty and flavor, this experience blends iconic destinations with unforgettable culinary moments, from seaside trattorias on the Amalfi Coast to vineyard tables in the Tuscan countryside.

Stroll through Renaissance cities and medieval hill towns, linger over long lunches in sunlit piazzas, and discover the traditions behind some of Europe’s most beloved dishes. Along the way you’ll taste limoncello in Sorrento, sip bold Super Tuscan wines in Florence, enjoy rustic farm-to-table cuisine in Umbria, and savor the timeless Roman pastas that define the Eternal City.

The journey continues west to Lisbon, where golden Atlantic light reflects off tiled façades and historic trams glide through the hills of Alfama. Here you’ll experience Portugal’s vibrant food culture—from freshly baked pastéis de nata to seafood dinners overlooking the Tagus River.

Throughout the journey, the pace invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and experience Europe the way locals do: through conversation, shared meals, and the simple pleasure of a beautiful table. By the time the journey ends, you won’t just have seen Italy and Portugal—you will have tasted them.

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Special Features

Immersive coastal stay in Sorrento with welcome aperitivo, artisan boutiques, and time to explore the Bay of Naples at your own pace.
High-speed rail journey from the Amalfi Coast to Florence, transitioning from seaside vistas to Tuscan hills in under three hours.
Guided exploration of Florence’s historic center, including Piazza del Duomo, the Baptistery, and Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia, capped with a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner paired with Tuscan wines.
Scenic day in Tuscany and Umbria featuring a stop in Cortona and a family-owned winery visit with regional wine tasting and local specialties.
Stay in Assisi with guided visit to the Basilica of St. Francis and an Umbrian farm-to-table dinner showcasing regional ingredients such as truffles, artisan cheeses, and wild boar.
Rome stay near Vatican City with visit to St. Peter’s Basilica to view Michelangelo’s Pietà and an opening dinner highlighting classic Roman pasta dishes.
Touring of Ancient Rome including the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, and Bocca della Verità, followed by visits to Santa Cecilia and Santa Maria in Trastevere with free evening time in this lively neighborhood.
Private golf cart touring in Rome to major landmarks such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and hidden courtyards.
Flight from Rome to Lisbon with touring of the historic center, Time Out Market, Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and tasting of a warm Pastel de Nata.
Guided walk through Lisbon’s Alfama district including Lisbon Cathedral and Church of St. Anthony, with a chance to join the local coin-toss tradition for St. Anthony’s intercession.
Festive farewell dinner in Lisbon celebrating Portuguese hospitality, wines, and the spirit of saudade.

Tour Package Includes

11 nights accommodation in carefully selected hotels in Sorrento, Florence, Assisi, Rome, and Lisbon in double rooms.
Daily breakfast throughout the tour plus multiple included dinners, tastings, and aperitivi as specified in the itinerary.
Italian and Portuguese city hotel taxes, service charges, and fees.
All group airport–hotel–airport transfers when traveling on the main program arrival and departure dates.
Transportation by private coach, high-speed train, flights between Italy and Portugal, and Rome golf cart touring as per itinerary.
Guided sightseeing and walking tours in each destination, including licensed local guides where required.
Winery visit with guided tasting in Tuscany, plus curated culinary experiences in Rome, Sorrento, Florence, Assisi, and Lisbon.
All entrance and excursion fees.

Pricing & Options

La Dolce Vita: A Culinary Journey Through Italy & Portugal
July 7–19, 2026 (13 Days / 11 Nights)

Full Italy & Portugal Program
With Group Airfare from Newark (EWR):

• $4,499 per person (based on double occupancy)
• Airfare includes 1 standard checked bag up to 50 pounds
• Single Room Supplement: +$800
• Total with private room: $5,299

Optional Connecting Flights to Newark or Alternate Round-Trip Flights

Optional add-on connecting flights are available to join the international departure from Newark for a $300 supplement from the following cities:

Chicago (ORD)
Cleveland (CLE)
Fort Myers (RSW)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Miami (MIA)
Orlando (MCO)
San Francisco (SFO) * There is no additional charge from SFO
Washington, D.C. (IAD)

Please note: For travelers departing from the West Coast, this pricing is guaranteed; however, you may be placed on alternate flights to and from Europe depending on airline availability.

With this connection included, the total package price is $4,799 per person including airfare.

Please reach out for other departure cities; most other U.S. cities can be arranged for a similar supplement.

Land-Only Option (No Group Airfare)

• $3,499 per person (based on double occupancy)
• Single Room Supplement: +$800

Land-only participants are responsible for arranging their own flights and meeting the group at the hotel in Sorrento at the start of the tour. Return airfare and airport transfers at the conclusion of the journey are also the traveler’s responsibility. If you prefer to arrange your own flights, we will gladly assist in arranging your airport transfers.

Italy Only Package

(Sorrento → Florence → Assisi → Rome)
9 Nights / 10 Days

Land-Only Option

• $2,999 per person (based on double occupancy)
• Single Room Supplement: +$600

Italy Only Airfare Add-On Option

Round-trip airfare for the Italy Only Package is available for $1,300 per person in economy, including airport transfers and one standard checked bag up to 50 pounds, from the following cities:

Chicago (ORD)
Cleveland (CLE)
Fort Myers (RSW)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Miami (MIA)
Orlando (MCO)
San Francisco (SFO)
Washington, D.C. (IAD)

Payment Deadlines

$1,000 deposit due at time of registration
Friday, April 17, 2026 – $1,500 second payment due
Final balance due Friday, May 22, 2026
(including airfare and any single room supplement)

What Is Included?

Private airport transfers and all ground transportation throughout the journey, ensuring seamless travel between each destination.
11 nights of carefully selected accommodations for the Full Italy & Portugal Program, or 9 nights of accommodations for the Italy‑Only Package (based on double occupancy).
Daily breakfast and thoughtfully curated group dinners as outlined in the itinerary, along with select culinary tastings and regional dining experiences that highlight the flavors and traditions of each destination.
Expert local guides and guided sightseeing tours in each destination, with all entrance fees and excursion costs included as part of the program.
A dedicated tour manager accompanying the group throughout the journey, providing on‑the‑ground assistance, coordination, and support to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

What’s Not Included?

International airfare for travelers selecting the land‑only option.
Independent lunches and occasional free‑evening dinners noted in the itinerary, allowing flexibility to explore local cuisine.
Beverages with dinner: water, coffee, tea, beer, and wine are typically included during group dinners; additional beverages may be purchased individually.
Gratuities for local guides and motor‑coach drivers.
Single room supplement, if requested.
Travel insurance or trip protection (optional; strongly recommended).

Detailed Itinerary | July 7-19, 2026

A journey for those who travel by taste. From the Amalfi Coast to the Tuscan countryside, from Rome’s storied trattorias to Lisbon’s tiled hills, this is a celebration of flavor, culture, and the timeless art of living well.

Day 1 ❖ Tuesday – July 7, 2026

Departure

Your journey begins as you board an overnight flight to Italy. Settle in, raise a glass to the adventure ahead, and drift into dreams of lemon-scented coastlines, vineyard tables, and sunlit piazzas waiting across the Mediterranean.

Day 2 ❖ Wednesday – July 8, 2026

Naples → Sorrento | Amalfi Coast Elegance

Arrive in Naples and transfer along the glittering Bay of Naples to Sorrento, a cliffside jewel overlooking the Amalfi Coast. After checking in, ease into southern Italy’s rhythm where lemon groves scent the air and church bells echo over the sea. An introductory walking tour reveals historic lanes and artisan boutiques, followed by a welcome aperitivo with regional small plates. Dinner is independent this evening, allowing for rest or a relaxed first taste of coastal cuisine. (T)

Day 3 ❖ Thursday – July 9, 2026

Sorrento | La Dolce Vita on the Bay of Naples
Enjoy a leisurely morning to settle into the rhythm of Sorrento — espresso in Piazza Tasso, a stroll along Marina Grande, or a quiet moment overlooking the Bay of Naples as fishing boats drift in and out of the harbor. Today is entirely yours to savor: browse artisan boutiques fragrant with lemon and leather, linger over a long seaside lunch, visit a local limoncello producer, or simply unwind in the comfort of your accommodations while soaking in the Mediterranean light. As evening falls, gather together for a refined group dinner in Sorrento, where regional specialties and thoughtfully selected Campanian wines are enjoyed against a backdrop of sweeping coastal views. (B, D)

Day 4 ❖ Friday – July 10, 2026

Sorrento → Florence | Renaissance & Wine

Transfer to Naples and board high-speed rail to Florence, where the scenery shifts from sparkling coastline to rolling Tuscan hills in under three hours. Florence welcomes you with cathedral domes, Renaissance grandeur, and honey-colored stone. The afternoon is yours to wander along the Arno, explore artisan workshops, or linger over a Negroni in a sunlit piazza before enjoying dinner independently in one of Italy’s most celebrated culinary cities. (B)

Day 5 ❖ Saturday – July 11, 2026

Florence | Art, Steak & Super Tuscans

Discover Florence’s artistic treasures beginning at Piazza del Duomo and the Baptistery before standing in awe before Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia. Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio and through elegant streets alive with history. This evening celebrates Tuscany’s culinary pride: Bistecca alla Fiorentina — perfectly grilled, boldly seasoned, and paired with robust Tuscan wines for a dinner that captures the heart of Florentine dining. (B, D)

Day 6 ❖ Sunday – July 12, 2026

Cortona, Wine Country & Assisi

Journey into the Tuscan countryside, stopping in sun-washed Cortona for panoramic views across the Val di Chiana. Continue to a family-owned winery for a guided tasting of regional wines accompanied by local cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fare while learning the traditions behind each bottle. By evening, arrive in Assisi, Umbria’s serene hilltop town rich in history and atmosphere. (B, T, D)

Day 7 ❖ Monday – July 13, 2026

Assisi | Medieval Beauty & Umbrian Cuisine

Explore Assisi’s winding stone streets and the Basilica of St. Francis, a masterpiece of frescoed art and sacred architecture. Umbria’s culinary traditions shine this evening with a farm-to-table dinner featuring truffles, lentils, wild boar, and earthy wines, thoughtfully prepared by a local husband-and-wife team using ingredients from their nearby farm. (B, D)

Day 8 ❖ Tuesday – July 14, 2026

Assisi → Rome | The Eternal City

This morning we journey south from the serenity of Assisi into the grandeur of Rome, where empire, faith, and artistry converge in magnificent layers. After settling into our hotel near Vatican City, we step into the vast embrace of St. Peter’s Basilica to behold Michelangelo’s luminous Pietà, resting in quiet power beneath the soaring dome and centuries of devotion. As evening unfolds, we gather for a Roman welcome dinner celebrating the city’s beloved culinary traditions — carbonara, amatriciana, and gricia — paired with regional wines, followed by a gentle stroll through softly illuminated piazzas where fountains shimmer and the Eternal City reveals its timeless magic under the night sky. (B, D)

Day 9 ❖ Wednesday – July 15, 2026

Rome | Ancient Glory & Trastevere Evenings

Today we step into the grandeur of Ancient Rome, where history rises from stone and empire still echoes in the air. The mighty Colosseum stands before us — a monument to spectacle, power, and endurance — followed by the vast expanse of Circus Maximus, once alive with the thunder of chariots racing beneath imperial gaze. From there, we pause at the famed Bocca della Verità, the legendary “Mouth of Truth,” immortalized by Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in Roman Holiday — a playful yet enduring symbol of Rome’s layered storytelling. Crossing the Tiber, we enter the enchanting quarter of Trastevere, where cobblestone lanes and ivy-draped facades reveal a more intimate Rome. Here we visit the ancient churches of Santa Cecilia and Santa Maria in Trastevere, luminous with early Christian devotion and golden mosaics that shimmer in candlelight. This evening is yours to savor independently in this beloved neighborhood, where trattorias spill into lantern-lit streets and the aromas of cacio e pepe and wood-fired pizza fill the night air. (B, ID)

Day 10 ❖ Thursday – July 16, 2026

Rome by Golf Cart | Hidden Corners & Grand Icons

Explore Rome by private golf cart, gliding past the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers while discovering hidden courtyards and lesser-known corners. The afternoon and evening remain free for final indulgences before departing for Portugal the next morning. (B, ID)

Day 11 ❖ Friday – July 17, 2026

Lisbon | Tiles, Tarts & the Tagus

Fly to Lisbon, where Atlantic light dances across tiled façades and hilltop viewpoints overlook the Tagus River. Explore the historic center and enjoy an independent lunch at the vibrant Time Out Market before visiting Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, monuments to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. No visit to Lisbon is complete without savoring a warm Pastel de Nata, fresh from the oven. Dinner introduces you to Portugal’s rich culinary traditions. (B, D)

Day 12 ❖ Saturday – July 18, 2026

Alfama & Farewell Feast

Today we wander the winding lanes of Lisbon’s historic Alfama district, where tiled façades, hidden courtyards, and sweeping views over the Tagus reveal the soul of the city as the city’s iconic yellow streetcars rattle and glide along the narrow hillsides. Nearby we visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), the city’s oldest church, founded in the 12th century shortly after the Christian reconquest and long a spiritual anchor for the people of Lisbon. Just steps away we continue to the Church of St. Anthony, built on the saint’s birthplace. Here we learn about the beloved Lisbon native—preacher, miracle worker, and patron of lost things—and take part in a charming local tradition: tossing a coin toward St. Anthony’s open breviary while praying for the grace of a good spouse. Legend says that if the coin lands on the book, luck in love will follow. The afternoon is free for final discoveries before we gather this evening for a festive farewell dinner celebrating Portuguese hospitality. With grateful hearts, we raise a final toast to friendship, faith, and the lingering spirit of saudade. (B, D)

Day 13 ❖ Sunday – July 19, 2026

Rise and shine as your journey comes to a close. Make your way to the airport for your flight home, carrying with you the flavors, friendships, and unforgettable moments of Italy and Portugal — memories that linger long after the journey ends.

Dining Codes:

B = Breakfast

D = Dinner
T = Tasting

ID = Independent Dinner

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages typically travel in the group?
Our groups are diverse, with participants ranging from young adults to seniors. As long as you are healthy and able to meet the physical demands of the tour, you’ll enjoy the experience.

How physically demanding is this tour?
This tour requires participants to be physically active. You can expect 3-4 hours of walking daily, including standing for extended periods. The terrain may include uneven surfaces, cobblestone streets, steep steps, and slopes. To prepare, we recommend walking daily. Before you depart on the tour you should be comfortable walking 3-5 miles over the course of a day.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
This tour is not recommended for individuals who have difficulty walking or require mobility aids. Participants should be in good health and ready for the physical demands of the trip, including walking on uneven terrain, navigating steep steps, and exploring cobblestone streets. The tour involves pedestrianized areas around historic sites and museums, requiring a good level of mobility and stamina. We welcome travelers of all ages who are prepared for these physical requirements.

What is included in the tour cost?
The tour cost includes accommodations, transportation during the trip, guided experiences, and most meals. Airfare is not included, as participants may travel from various locations. We recommend using Google Flights to estimate airfare costs and book your own flights.

Will you book my flights, or do I need to arrange them myself?
We’re happy to book your flights for you! Just let us know and we will connect you with our flight specialist. If you prefer to book your own flights, that’s perfectly fine—just coordinate with us in advance to get the group flight details.

How can I estimate the cost of airfare?
Since airfare fluctuates frequently, we recommend checking Google Flights to get a general idea of prices. Keep in mind that the lowest fares often don’t include baggage fees, so factor those costs into your estimate.

Can I bring my teenager on this trip?
Yes! Healthy travelers aged 18 and older are welcome to travel independently. Parents may bring a child under 18, but they are fully responsible for their supervision and behavior throughout the trip.

Are single accommodations available?
Yes, single rooms are available for an additional cost, ideal for travelers who prefer private accommodations.

What do I need to know before the trip?
A comprehensive predeparture webpage will be shared five weeks before departure. This will include updated information on group flights, hotels, and any itinerary modifications (e.g., changes due to unforeseen events like the Notre Dame fire). You’ll also find a packing list and helpful links to prepare for your journey.

Can I register if I don’t have a passport yet?
Yes! You can register using your legal name as it appears on your birth certificate. Make sure the name you use matches the one that will appear on your passport when issued.

Do I need a visa?

U.S. citizens do not currently need a visa to travel to Italy or Portugal. However, in the near future, the European Union will require a new travel authorization called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). This program is not yet in effect for travel in 2026.

For the latest updates, please visit our page on New European Travel Regulations.

What should I know about meals and dining?
While many meals are included, some will be independent to give you the opportunity to explore local dining options. Special dinners with wine pairings are a highlight of the tour, offering a delightful taste of the region’s cuisine.

What if I want to come earlier or stay later?

Would you like to extend your stay, arriving earlier or departing later? Let us know during registration if you’d like to adjust your travel dates, and, pending availability, we can modify your airline reservations. Please note that additional fees will apply.

Ready to Join Us?

Thank you for choosing to embark on this unforgettable journey with us! Before proceeding to registration, please take a moment to review our Terms and Conditions. These outline important details about your trip, cancellation policies and traveler responsibilities.

Quick Tips for Registration:

The process typically takes about 7-10 minutes to complete.
You can use any device, but many find it easier on a Smartphone or Tablet/iPad.
Be sure to enter your legal name exactly as it appears (or will appear) on your passport. If you don’t yet have a passport, please use the name on your birth certificate or the name that will appear on your passport when issued.

Payment Options:

After completing your registration, you’ll be taken to a confirmation page.
You have the option to pay by check or credit card.

When you’re ready, click the button below to begin your registration. We can’t wait to travel with you!

Adam Green

Daniel Bizga

The Curators

This journey has been thoughtfully designed by experienced travelers and cultural hosts who believe the best way to understand a place is through its food, stories, and everyday beauty. Drawing on years of exploration across Italy and Portugal, our curators have carefully selected the restaurants, vineyards, historic sites, and hidden corners that make each destination come alive. Their goal is simple: to create a seamless and unforgettable experience that allows you to savor the culture, cuisine, and spirit of every place we visit.

Our Curator Team:

Group Flight Information
GROUP FLIGHTS — TAP AIR PORTUGAL

OUTBOUND FLIGHTS:

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Newark (EWR) → Lisbon (LIS)

Depart 5:30 PM → Arrive 5:30 AM (+1 day)
Flight TP 202 | Airbus A321neo

Layover in Lisbon: 2 hours

Lisbon (LIS) → Naples (NAP)
Depart 7:30 AM → Arrive 11:40 AM
Flight TP 882 | Airbus A319

Total Travel Time: approx. 12 hours

MID-JOURNEY FLIGHT

Friday, July 17, 2026

Rome (FCO) → Lisbon (LIS)
Depart 5:55 AM → Arrive 8:05 AM
Flight TP 839 | Airbus A321

Flight Time: approx. 3 hours

RETURN FLIGHT

Sunday, July 19, 2026

Lisbon (LIS) → Newark (EWR)
Depart 12:15 PM → Arrive 3:30 PM
Flight TP 201 | Airbus A321neo

Total Travel Time: approx. 8 hours 15 minutes

Our Airline Partner: TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal is a well-established international airline recognized for its reliable service, comfortable cabins, and strong safety record. As Portugal’s flagship carrier, TAP consistently earns favorable ratings for customer satisfaction, on-time performance, and its welcoming onboard experience. Travelers value the airline’s modern fleet and seamless connections between the United States and Europe, including our group routing through Lisbon.

As a proud member of the Star Alliance network, TAP also benefits from global partnerships that enhance connectivity, operational reliability, and international standards of service. Flying with TAP gives our pilgrimage community both ease of travel and the added confidence that comes from partnering with a respected global alliance carrier.

NOTES

Cabin: Economy
Tickets are issued in your name exactly as shown on your passport.
Trip Protection applies to the land package only; airfare is governed by airline terms.

Where will I stay?

Your hotels will be confirmed closer to departure. We thoughtfully select accommodations that consistently receive strong ratings on TripAdvisor and Google Reviews, carefully balancing comfort, character, location, and value. Our aim is to place you in welcoming properties that reflect the spirit of each destination while providing a relaxing and reliable place to return to after each day’s discoveries. You will be accommodated in these or similar hotels:

Sorrento: Ulisse Deluxe Sorrento
Just steps from Sorrento’s lively historic center, our hotel offers a welcoming and comfortable retreat overlooking the sparkling Bay of Naples. Consistently earning strong reviews on TripAdvisor for its warm hospitality, inviting atmosphere, and attentive service, it provides an ideal base for exploring Sorrento’s charming streets, seaside promenades, and the culinary delights of the Amalfi Coast. This is a consistent favorite with our guests in Sorrento due to its exceptional location

Florence: Hotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio
Located just steps from the iconic Ponte Vecchio, B&B Hotel Firenze Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio offers a welcoming stay in the very heart of Florence’s historic center. Housed in a historic tower with sweeping views across the Arno and the rooftops of the Renaissance city, the hotel is consistently praised on TripAdvisor for its exceptional location and rooftop terrace overlooking the Ponte Vecchio. From here, Florence’s great treasures—from the Uffizi Gallery to the Duomo—are all within an easy and unforgettable stroll.

Assisi, Italy: Domus Pacis
Located in Santa Maria degli Angeli at the foot of Assisi, Domus Pacis offers a peaceful and welcoming stay just steps from the magnificent Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, home to the beloved Porziuncola Chapel of St. Francis. Known for its warm Franciscan hospitality and spacious grounds, the property provides a quiet retreat while remaining a short drive from the medieval hilltop town of Assisi. Consistently appreciated by travelers for its comfortable accommodations and convenient location, Domus Pacis offers an ideal base for exploring the beauty, history, and culinary traditions of Umbria.

Rome: Il Cantico
Located just steps from Vatican City, Il Cantico St. Peter offers a peaceful and modern retreat in the heart of Rome. Inspired by the Franciscan tradition of hospitality and named after St. Francis’ Canticle of the Creatures, the hotel blends contemporary design with a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Consistently praised on TripAdvisor for its attentive service, elegant interiors, and exceptional location near St. Peter’s Basilica, Il Cantico provides an ideal base for exploring the timeless beauty, culture, and cuisine of the Eternal City.

Lisbon, Portugal: Epic Sana Lisboa
Located in the heart of Lisbon, EPIC SANA Lisboa offers a stylish and contemporary retreat overlooking the city’s elegant avenues. Renowned for its modern design, spacious rooms, and exceptional service, the hotel consistently receives outstanding reviews on TripAdvisor. With its stunning rooftop terrace and easy access to Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, EPIC SANA provides a refined and comfortable base for discovering the vibrant culture, cuisine, and charm of Portugal’s capital.

La Dolce Vita: A Culinary Journey Through Italy & Portugal

Full Italy & Portugal Program
With Group Airfare from Newark (EWR):

• $4,499 per person (based on double occupancy)
• Airfare includes 1 standard checked bag up to 50 pounds
• Single Room Supplement: +$800
• Total with private room: $5,299

Optional Connecting Flights to Newark or Alternate Round-Trip Flights

Land-Only Option (No Group Airfare)

Italy Only Package

(Sorrento → Florence → Assisi → Rome)
9 Nights / 10 Days

Land-Only Option

• $2,999 per person (based on double occupancy)
• Single Room Supplement: +$600

Italy Only Airfare Add-On Option

Payment Deadlines

Adam Green

Daniel Bizga

The Curators

OUTBOUND FLIGHTS:

MID-JOURNEY FLIGHT

RETURN FLIGHT

+1-941-301-8709

info@afarandawaytravel.com

La Dolce Vita: A Culinary Journey Through Italy & Portugal

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+1-941-301-8709

info@afarandawaytravel.com