FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you actually drive this thing?
I do! Marge has handlebars with a clutch, gears, and throttle, plus a foot brake — basically a three-wheeled scooter with a cargo box on the back. She needs a moment to get up to speed, so I stick to the back roads rather than anything with a high speed limit.
How fast does it go?
About 35mph at top speed, which is also about where I feel comfortable. We're not in a hurry. Good cheese takes time, and so does safely piloting a very small Italian vehicle.
Where do you get your cheese?
I'm not a cheesemaker, I'm a cheesemonger, which means my job is sourcing, not making. Every week, I hand-select cheeses from around the world, focusing on things you won't typically find at the grocery store and things I think you should be tasting. That includes a real soft spot for California cheesemakers, who make incredible cheese and deserve a lot more attention than they get.
Do you make the cheese?
Nope. See above. I'm in the business of finding great cheese, not making it, though I have an enormous amount of respect for the people who do.
What IS that little truck?
She's a Piaggio Ape, an Italian three-wheeler made by the same people who make Vespas. (Vespa means "wasp" in Italian, Ape means "bee." She's named for the buzzing sound she makes.) The Ape factories have since moved to India, so I like to think of her as an immigrant. She fits right in around here.
Does she have a name?
She's very cute and therefore required a name. Meet Large Marge. Marge, for short.
What about her gas tank?
Tiny. About one gallon. She's humble in her needs.
Where did you find her?
I worked with @vintagetruckpurveyors to track her down. Highly recommend them if you're in the market for your own adorable Italian vehicle.
How does buying work?
I pre-cut everything into small, approachable pieces, so you can try before you buy. While you're tasting, I'll tell you everything about it — the style, the origin, the story. The cheese talk is complimentary.
How did Kitchen Table Travel Co. come to be?
I was laid off in August. Instead of spiraling, I hit the ground and started selling. It's been a lot of trial, error, and learning, but here we are, Marge and me, figuring it out one pop-up at a time.
Questions about our Italian tours?
International travel requires some preparation and we hope this frequently asked questions section helps make the most out of your adventure. Please contact us if you have additional questions at info@kitchentabletravelco.com.
How do I learn about upcoming tours?
Subscribe to our site to stay up to date on newly released tour information. We also have open trips listed on our Tours page with detailed itineraries and pricing information. You can always message us with additional questions at info@kitchentabletravelco.com.
How do I book a tour with Kitchen Table Travel?
If you’d like to go on our tour, message us through the website or email us at info@kitchentabletravelco.com. We’ll get your info and go over payment and deposit options.
We can book up until 30 days before departure.
When are your tours available?
Our tours are available around the autumn and spring so we can enjoy the less crowded off season.
How many people are on each trip?
For sustainability and quality purposes, we stick with small groups. Most of the tours are limited to 6 people but we can work with you on options for more.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
We have a 30 day cancellation policy in order to get your full refund less a 10% admin fee. If you cancel within less than 30 days, you are responsible for the full cost of the package.
What happens if I’m late or miss the tour?
You are responsible for being in our appointed meeting place at the correct time. We advise that you arrive at least one day before the tour starts. If you are late or your flight is delayed and you miss the start of the tour, we’ll work with you to the best of our abilities to get you to where we are. If this is impossible our cancellation policy applies.
What language is spoken on the tour?
Tours are led in English. We encourage you to try out some Italian phrases to be friendly to our Italian hosts.
What currency do I bring?
You will need Euros that you can either purchase beforehand at your bank or at local ATM's or exchange venues in Italy.
Can I use my Credit Card?
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities but you will want to have cash on you for small businesses and some restaurants. Check with your credit card company about any fees before using.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is a wonderful thing for an ever changing world full of human and technical error. There are many options for many budgets and some great articles on how to purchase
What if I have accessibility issues?
Because we are in Italy, our tours will include some walking on cobblestones and uneven ground. Some historical sites have accessibility restrictions. All activities are optional and you are welcome to do as much as you want or as little as you want.
If you do have mobility issues and you need special accommodations, we will need to know at the time of booking. For example, we can do our best to book ground floor rooms hotels with elevators but will need to know ahead of time.
What will I be eating?
Included in your package is breakfast, lunch, and dinner with some exceptions. Italy is a culinary gem for all food groups! You’ll find lots of vegetables and legumes and grains along with pastas, pizzas, and meats. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, we need to know at the time of booking so that we can accommodate you. Please let us know any preferences so that we don’t book a seafood restaurant when you are allergic to seafood. Italy is known for its hospitality and we can do almost anything if we know ahead of time.
What should I wear?
You’ll want comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking and layers. In terms of weather, it’s a great idea to add your destination cities to your weather app so you’ll know what to expect from the temperatures. Spring can be wetter with sunshine in the day and cooler nights. Autumn is still hanging on to some daytime summer temps but with nighttime cooling. You’ll want to bring something that’s appropriate for a nice dinner (not evening wear but it’s nice to spruce up a bit!). You may also want to pack a scarf as many churches require you to cover your shoulders for entry.
What should I pack?
You’ll be allowed one suitcase and one small carry-on bag (like a backpack or purse). Your checked suitcase should be no larger than the medium checked baggage size, usually 25-27 inches. We do have to fit everyone’s luggage in the van and safely stow it.
We ask that you bring a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic disposable bottles. Italy is famous for its nasoni, or spring water fountains and it’s easy to get a refill.
You’ll probably want a bag for the daytime in which you can carry essentials like your water bottle, a sweater, hat, etc.
You’ll also want to pack extra masks as each region and business owner has different rules.
What will my accommodations be like?
We pride ourselves on finding the most memorable places to stay. For you this usually means charming villas, beautiful farmhouses, quaint old castles, or hip city hotels, all of which are included in the price of your package
Where do we meet?
Several weeks before our trip begins we’ll have a prearranged meeting point in the town where our tour begins.
Will my cell phone work in Italy?
Check with your provider for international coverage plans. Another option is to purchase a local SIM card in Italy if your phone works with those. Most hotels and b&bs offer free wifi so you can take advantage of wifi calling.