Testimonials & In the Media
This is what our travellers had to say...
Cheers from the 2006 tour group
“I would like to tell you how much I enjoyed our painting holiday, which I think was brilliantly organized, packed with great stuff and I personally feel I’m on my way to becoming a better painter because my enthusiasm and motivation has been totally stimulated”
- Mim M – Malcolm Beattie’s Painting Tour September 2008
“It really was a special place in the Valley of the Dragone. We will always treasure the memories of the landscape in mist, rain and sunshine and the wonderful banquets provided by your relatives, the cheese factory and the lovely taste of good Reggiano Parmigiana cheese”
- Joanne VG – Italian Cultural Tour May 2008
‘This is just a belated quick note to thank you for the wonderful holiday you hosted in Italy. We both voted it the best holiday ever, and that is no exaggeration. The mix of history, sights, food, painting opportunities (the list goes on) was just right.’
- Michael M – Malcolm Beattie’s Painting Tour September 2008
“I thought the whole trip was good value for money and that Janette and Marina have done an excellent job, especially as it’s their first trip. They have been courteous, friendly and helpful. I would wish them all the best for future trips. Well done! And lots of bouquets for all the work you two have done – and to your rellies too!”
- Carol ( Non-painter )
“A trip of a lifetime dream. Really enjoyed both of your company at all times. So great to have so many relies. Especially Don Guiseppe (Priest of Modena) taking all around his lovely churches.”
“Even responses to my text messages home have been so enthusiastic eg: “WOW, what a holiday!”, “How cool”, “Fantastic”. Thank you Jeanette and Marina for all your planning, organisation and thought put into making this holiday so special!
As well, your patience and effort in dealing with everyone in the group and involving your wonderful family. This has been a one-off experience!”
- Rob (Artist)
““The trip more than ever fulfilled my expectations – did not believe that it would cover so many beautiful and diversified opportunities and the personal touch of the relations added dramatically to the Italian trip. Great opportunities for painting – there and later from our photographs” Judy W - Painter”
- Judy (Artist)
“For me, the day in Fiumalbo was special because of the place, the people we met, the place I sketched, the weather – our mood… everything! Lucca was picturesque and I would love to go back.”
“The locals have been extraordinarily generous in every aspect. When I first read the ‘flyer’ for the trip it was what appealed to me – that generosity when above/beyond these expectations.”
- Janice (Non-painter)
Scenery from Castel Garfagnana
Media
Article: Modena Gazette Regional News Paper (in Italian), 2 October 2006 (pdf 291kb)Reflections of our Italian Painting Trip to Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany by Judy Webber, Ringwood Arts Society Newsletter: November/ December 2006 (pdf 300kb)
Art Trip to Italy by Marina Cook, Upper Ferntree Gully News, Autumn 2007 (pdf 214kb)
Italian Newspaper Article September 2008 (pdf 558kb)
Italian Newspaper Article September 2008 (pdf 859kb)