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I have described Purple Fete’s services and houses,
but who better to speak to the advantages of a Purple Fete Tuscan Villa
experience than our guests. While I routinely visit the villas, and
continually improve Purple Fete’s services, here is a sample of what is being
said by the press and Purple Fete’s guests about their experiences, what they
think about the residences, and how they feel about their expectations being
met…or even exceeded.
Sincerely,
James A. Fantaci
Purple Fete has been recognized by the press for the personal service, the
quality of the villas, and the incorporation of wine appreciation into the
Tuscan villa experience. James A. Fantaci, proprietor was recently interviewed
by Al Bassano, the wine specialist for Bloomberg Radio, and by the luxury
lifestyle magazine, the Robb Report as well as Hamptons Cottages & Gardens and
Connecticut Cottages & Gardens. The following quote is an excerpt from
the Robb Report article:
VILLAS AND VINTAGES
On a gray February afternoon, who has not fantasized
about a siesta in the sun-drenched courtyard of a Tuscan villa, book-ended by
ventures throughout the Italian countryside to savor the local cuisine and the
bounteous liquid offerings from the vine? And who has not been deterred by the
task of arranging it all?
To that end, Purple Fete, creates personalized villa vacations-especially for
wine aficionados and those who wish to gain first hand knowledge of local
vintages. Purple Fete offers wine appreciation services as well as luxury
villas. Proprietor, James Fantaci, a wine consultant whose special interest is
Tuscany, will arrange wine tastings and excursions to local wineries.
The company takes care of the many of the details that accompany a vacation
rental, including stocking the kitchen with food, and engaging the services of
a private chef. All villas are supplied with custom-made crystal stemware, and
a mixed case of the area’s best reds and whites can be on hand at arrival
time, for an immediate attitude adjustment.
-Karen Cakebread

Article in the Financial Times (ft.com) - February 2008 |






"Escape to Tuscany" -
Article in Hamptons Cottages & Gardens Magazine featuring Purple Fete
(This is a PDF file and you will need Adobe
Acrobat Reader.
Click to download!)
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GUEST TESTIMONIALS
James,
Villa Giuncheto is absolutely gorgeous and,
frankly, the photos and video on the website don't quite do it justice. We
were thrilled with the property and the accommodations, which were in
excellent condition, very clean and attentively cared for. The furnishings
are lovely, and the grounds and surroundings were stunning. When we
arrived, it was a warm, sunny day and roses and other flowers and herbs were
in bloom everywhere you looked. The gardens, aromas and vistas were to die
for! Rosa, the housekeeper, also did an excellent job servicing our
bedrooms and bath linens each day, putting towels out at the pool and
cooking wonderful meals. Also, the availability of reasonably priced wines
in the wine cellar was a real plus. Some of us also used and enjoyed the
availability of the work out facility, as well as the expansive grounds (for
walking, etc.)
Susan, the concierge, did a good job making
arrangements for us. We used a driver and van most days, and while we ate
more meals in than we originally expected, her tips on restaurants were very
helpful. All the assistance with getting to and from the villa and train
station/airport, having a rental car delivered to the villa ready to go,
etc., made a big difference in our stay.
I would be happy to be a referral and have
already recommended your site to several people. We would definitely rent
from you again, and indeed hope to do so! Our daughter wasn't with us on
this adult-only trip, and so I have promised to get her there in the next
year or two.
Best,
Georganne Peters
James,
The property (Casa Dei
Pipistrelli) met, if not exceeded our expectations. Thank you- We loved all
of the restaurant recommendations. The Cupano wine was excellent and the box
of selected wines gave a great representation of the area. There were
several we will stock in our wine cellar in the future. Susan was also
amazingly helpful. She definitely was instrumental in making the trip a
success.
I think visiting Cupano
was a highlight. He was such an entertaining, kind gentleman, that we were
all were enthralled with his story and his wine making abilities. I think
everyone of us bought his wine to ship home. We even chose to go back to
Cupano, rather than go on to the next vineyard, so that we could spend more
time with him. He was fascinating. We also had many fun evenings in the
courtyard at the house. The atmosphere and charm of the old stone fireplace
and the pizza oven, made our dinners even more memorable. The house was
also a very pleasant surprise.
Other than the obvious
beauty and charm, it performed very well with 12 people bumbling around
inside. I didn't hear of anyone not having hot water when we arrived back,
road weary, from our long days. Everyone spoke of how they couldn't hear a
thing through the thick walls and about how well they all slept and there
were so many places to go and relax and take in the Tuscan beauty. I
wonderful trip all the way around. We would definitely rent through Purple
Fete again and would highly recommend Purple Fete to our friends. Thank you
again.
Brenda
Dear James,
We had a great time. The villa was perfect and
the staff was delightful. As promised the food was excellent. We ate dinner
there every night!
Elisabeth is a delight and was very helpful in
providing information on things to do and see in the area. You are very
lucky that she is representing your company.
We have booked a number
of places over the last several years and this property was as described.
JUST PERFECT!
I would be happy to be
a referral and not IF but WHEN we return to Tuscany we will most certainly
consider Purple Fete. Again, James, thanks so much. The memories for us,
and our grandchildren will be ever enduring.
Best,
Richard Cornelius
Better late than never
(it seems like we only returned yesterday we have been so busy), but we
wanted to thank you, Susan and Eliza for your help in our planning our stay
in Tuscany and accommodating our needs when we were there. We could not
have had a better time, had better accommodations, or better weather during
our stay at Casina di Mello (I guess we can’t legitimately give you credit
for the weather, but everything else is well deserved). Angela and Giorgio
were outstanding as well!
We will definitely look
to you when we plan a return trip to Italy (can nor be too soon) and we will
recommend you to any of our friends and acquaintances who are considering a
stay in a villa there as well. Our expectations were truly exceeded!
We hope you are able to
weather the economic downturn and high EURO exchange rate and that your
business continues to thrive.
Best regards,
Don Browne
Dear James,
The property was
pristine, and we love Rosa! It ass the vacation of a lifetime. Thanks so
much. Feel free to use me as a reference for the future. Also, find some
properties like this in Amalfi Coast. Targeted to go in a few years.
Best,
Russel Weiner
Hi James,
I just wanted to drop
you a quick note to let you know what a fabulous time we had at Casina Di
Mello. I finally caught up with work after being away so long. I am so
glad we brought a GPS for the rental because we would have never made it
without the help.
Georgio and Angela were
sent from heaven. They have spoiled us. Since returning home, I haven’t
had a cup of coffee or pasta that compares to theirs. I will never forget
the sage leaves and zucchini flowers – neither of which we can find in
Hawaii….it surprised me to learn that the more simple the recipe, the better
the taste so wonderful. The breakfasts were the best I’ve ever had. I have
never eaten that much great food in one week in my life.
We had pretty terrible
weather but being from Hawaii, we didn’t care. It got very cold (for us
under 70 is cold) so we enjoyed gathering around the fireplace outside. I’m
afraid poor Giorgio ended up cutting quite a bit of wood for us. The Bocce
ball court was fabulous too.
We really hated to
leave. Please tell them both aloha for us when you see them next. We
promised them a place to stay if they visit Hawaii and we mean it. Just
bring the sage and zucchini flowers. If you get to Hawaii, we hope you call
– we would love to meet you.
We’ve told so many of
our friends about Purple Fete that I wouldn’t be surprised if there is a big
increase in the hits on your website.
Again, thanks for
suggesting Casina di Mello. Susan and Eliza were fabulous to work with and
made our stay even more enjoyable.
L.
We also all left long
messages (of praise!) in the book at Giuncheto and I think my
father even wrote a
long letter to the owner, who was exceptionally kind. The villa was great -
and without your encouragement over the phone, I don't think I would have
chosen it. Its too difficult to choose over the net and it looked less
initially glamorous than the others. So I think your guidance is essential
to people when booking houses.
Conveying the feel of
the house is important.
Gabrielle Bacon
The pictures were
excellent (Bandita)....they were completely consistent with reality....the
property was exquisite........the concierge/cooking staff was
incredible.....they could not have been more lovely, energetic, responsive,
capable...
We had a lot of
expectations about this trip based on the photographs the services
provided....and all of the important ones were exceeded....thank you....I
would definitely rent through Purple Fete again....I would recommend you
highly....
Thanks again.
Irene Gerber
Hi James -
I just got back last
night from our WONDERFUL time at Casina diMello. It was everything you said
and more. I think all of us feel like fat blobs after being wined and dined
by Angela and Giorgio. Her cooking was absolutely unbelievable - 6 plus
course dinners every night. Their off night was spent at Badia a Coltibuono,
which was great too. But I don't think there is a piece of laundry that sat
more than 1 day before they washed it all, the service by Giorgio was fun
fun fun and the total price, divided by all of us, was much much less than
we expected. We actually had one of our party use the bike to ride up from
the villa and into Gaiole to get the newspapers and back, which surprised us
since our cars barely made it up the hill. It was paradise. We all said
this was probably one of the top vacations of our lives. The weather was
perfect until last Friday when a big thunderstorm came in, but it kind of
made it a little fun, being out in that outdoor dining area with lightning
flying all over the place.
Even though we hadn't
ever been there, we actually got to the villa the previous Saturday at
exactly 12pm and then Angela made a wonderful lunch. Her cooking, the
villa, the treatment - all A plus. Eliza was there also and we kept in
contact (wisely, I rented an Italian cell phone) and she helped in many
ways.
So Bravo to everyone
and know that 8 people just had the time of their lives last week. I just
wish that Air France could have been more customer conscience as Purple Fete
was - they lost my bag and I still haven't heard anything about it.
Jamie Holland
James
We loved the house.
Descriptions and photos were very detailed and accurately represented the
property. Using only the pictures and the written description of the
property, I was able to successfully assign all of my guests to their
respective rooms. The condition of the entire property, house and grounds,
was top-rate. Everything was newly renovated and modernized to make the use
of the property extremely convenient and effortless. The property met every
expectation. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
The owner was EXTREMELY
hospitable. Very personable, conscientious and attentive. We enjoyed all
of the reservations and recommendations made for us as well as our
near-daily interaction with the owner/caretaker. One anecdocte worth
mentioning: on the day before we were ready to leave for home, my 3 year
old niece tripped down some stairs and split her forehead open. The wound
was large and needed immediate medical care. The owner/caretaker took my
niece and her parents directly to the hosptial in his own car, waited for
them while they received emergency treatment, and then returned them to the
property. The owner/caretaker was extremely compassionate and really went
out of his way to assist in a very emotional situation. Additionally, I
would like to mention that the entire staff at the property (2 housekeepers
and chef) were incredibly kind, gracious, and helpful. We received the very
best care and attention. Our meals were incredible.
Would
refer. Would rent again. Would recommend. Thanks.
James,
The description and photos (of Magnolia) were actually above my
expectations.
Susan Pennington, the concierge, was very helpful, as was Federica, the
Estate Manager.I even met the owner at the property and they invited me to
their home in Fiesoli. They were very nice.
Everyone at the property was very hospitable. Between you and Susan,
everything I needed was taken care of. I would use Purple Fete again, and I
would recommend it to family & friends.
Ellis Landau
James
The description and
photos almost did the villa justice. It was better than what we expected. It
was charming, and in good condition. Susan Pennington was a great asset, and
very helpful. We didn’t realize what to expect, and we were delighted with
what she added-also the dinners were wonderful and the ladies were charming.
Phyllis Kiehl
Dear James,
We had a wonderful
time at Bella Vista. It was a beautiful place and Giorgio was extremely
helpful and really made the vacation memorable. We particularly enjoyed the
dinner he prepared for our anniversary and the cooking class. He was very
flexible as our plans changed due to weather etc.
The pictures of Bella
Vista did not do it justice. It is an incredibly beautiful spot and home
and far exceeded our expectations. The views, pool (which due to rain and
cooler weather we did not use much), rooms, flowers and the fabulous
rosemary hedge that scented the area and wafted into our bedroom to wake us
in the morning was one of my favorite memories. I have a new gardening
goal! The property was in perfect condition and very well maintained. We
were all thrilled with the villa.
The recommendations in
the information you provided was extremely helpful. I would be happy to
recommend Purple Fete to anyone looking for a villa in Italy. If we return
to Tuscany, and we are already talking about taking a place south of Sienna,
we would definitely be calling you. Thank you for a wonderful week in
Tuscany. Please forward our regards and thanks to Giorgio.
Warmest regards,
Barbara Schnepper
James
Giuncheto was everything that was promised. The
villa of Giuncheto is beautiful; the rooms were very comfortable and
Immaculate. At Casina Di Mello, the house and property were quite beautiful,
and Angela and Giorgio are wonderful. They did everything possible to make
our stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
The concierges at both properties were wonderful.
Very accommodating and helpful. We especially appreciated talking to the
concierges ahead of time. Great cooking, helpful, hospitable and gracious in
every way. They all went way out of their way to make our stay very special
(arranging babysitting and a visit to the veterinarian, driving to Siena to
help us park!)
We would definitely do it again!
Amy Augustine
James,
The photos were helpful, but didn’t do justice to
the villa and its surroundings! The property was delightful and exceeded our
expectations.
Susan was a wealth of
knowledge and extremely helpful in this regard. Susan arranged for Anita to
cook for us. The first night was so enjoyable and well done that we
cancelled our Poggio Antico Restr. and actually did 3 nights with Anita.
Overall, we had a
fabulous and thoroughly enjoyable experience!! Susan is a qoldmine of
information and help!
Keith Flaugh
James,
Rosa was great! Her
cooking was wonderful. We really only used her for dinner, in which we just
asked her to surprise us, and she did every time. She kept the house clean,
and washed our laundry.
The staff were great
with the kids...especially when you really need them, like when my 2 yr old
son was accidentally hit in the head by a rock (from my 9 yr. old nephew)
she got us to the hospital and got us the top care there! The highly
regarded doctor who owns the villa and Rosa helped him, and got us the best
care for our son. She was great to us... and very missed.
I wish I had sat around
that lovely home a little more. I cannot say enough great things about
Villa Giuncheto!!!
Mara Akil
Hi James,
Thanks for recommended
that delightful villa. We had a wonderful time. The house and property were
in excellent condition, and the caretakers were outstanding and better than
we could have expected.
Best,
Sharon Stone
James
The description and photos (of Bellavista) were
right on, however, they can't do justice to seeing it with your own eyes.
The caretaker, Federica, was very gracious and
also a great cook. We used several of your recommendations, which were very
helpful, and the wine tour at Cupano's was a special treat. Lionel is
a really neat guy and makes some great wines.
Thanks again for your support throughout the
trip. We look forward to using your services in the future.
Sincerely,
Terry & Lynn Fortino
Everything was
wonderful. Terrubino was lots of fun with the couples. Elisa Cioni was a
delightful young lady and we did call on her from time to time with
questions-so very helpful. The young lady who is the maid/cook was
delightful. She of course spoke no English, but I have a respectable grasp
of Italian so we did just great.
As for Mello, well,
what can I say? It was spectacular. It was glorious in every respect. I
do not know the owners, but yet I know a lot about them just by looking
around the house. That is a house that they love, use and enjoy for
big-time entertaining. The way the house is outfitted with lovely sets of
china, crystal, linens, flatware, cookware...that's my kinda house. And
Giorgia and Angela were the two most delightful people I think I've ever met
abroad. They are incredible. And in spite of their speaking no English, we
had lots of conversations with them. They talked to us as though we
understood every word. And, boy, is she some kind of chef. When I found
out that she had worked at the Badia a Coltibuono cooking school, that
explained a lot. I've been familiar with that for some time. The house
was magnificent, but those two people made it the most special time we've
ever experienced. It was everything we had anticipated and a lot more to go
with it.
What a way to celebrate
a 40th wedding anniversary. Eliza Nash was super nice as well. She called
on Sunday to check in, and then on Wednesday; came by on Thursday evening to
make sure we were okay with Giorgio's and Angela's statement of charges.
She said we were the easiest guests, that we never called asking or
demanding anything; that, indeed, she had to call us to check in. A nice
compliment.
Mello was unbelieveable.
Irveta Shouse
James,
I just wanted to let
you know that we had an absolutely wonderful stay at Giuncheto. It was all
that we had hoped for and much more. It'a a very special place.
Rosa is a
real gem --an extremely gifted cook and an exceptional person. She can
really work some magic in the kitchen, and we're glad we took advantage of
it.
Susan was terrific in
helping us in any way we requested. We also met up with Clare to see some
villas for sale in the Chianti area. She's quite impressive --
knowledgeable, bright, and a real advocate for a prospective foreign
buyer.
By the way, the A/C worked great, and it was an absolute Godsend
given the heat wave that hit Italy during our stay.
We all liked Giuncheto
a great deal, and much prefer the openness of its location over the Chianti
area. If you ever think the doctor would be interested in selling Giuncheto,
we'd appreciate your letting us know. It's probably out of our price range,
but we'd certainly like to seriously consider it should the doctor become
interested in selling.
Many thanks for all of
your help.
Rich Sgalardi
James
Can I tell you what a
Fantastic time we had staying at Giunchetto! Between the villa itself, its
beautiful location, Rosa and her wonderful cooking and Susan with her great
hospitality it was Unbelievable and a memory for a lifetime.
Roland Emmanuel
James,
We had a spectacular
time at the villa. I will highly recommend you and your company to anybody
that asks and some who don't. The entire booking process was most helpful,
courteous and professional. James, was extremely knowledgeable with each
and every villa his company represents. A+
The description and
photos of the property were accurately represented. However, the pictures
and descriptions can't begin to express the energy and aura that surrounds
this place, the entire being of this villa was fabulous or should I say
unsurpassable. The restaurant recommendations were exquisite. James’ wine
selection was some of the most outstanding wines I've tasted.
The concierge is a lady
names Susan. She was always looking out for us and offering several
suggestion with day tours and local fanfare. She was such a nice person we
invited her for dinner several times and really enjoyed her company and
quick wit. We were sad to say good-bye to her and the villa. We have
promised ourselves, god willing, we will return in the next couple of
years.
James, this was a trip
of a life time, Thank You for all your help.
Joe Paneno
Hi James,
The laughs, wine
drinking, site seeing, loving, acting out, eating, sun rises and sets,
beautiful rolling Tuscan hillsides, rainbows, shopping, works of art, new
friends, old friends -----all vivid memories of a wonderful 3 weeks at Villa
Giuncheto. We ate every evening meal with Rosa. She is an amazing woman
and loves living and working at Villa Giuncheto.
I think the photos on
line do not really do Villa Giuncheto justice. It is far more beautiful and
spectacular than what is represented on line. I am so happy we decided to
book for 3 weeks. It would have been very difficult to sort with only a
week of time at the Villa. I would recommend at least 2 weeks, if not
more.
The wine and the wine
cellar were great. We had more wine advocates the 3rd week but it was very
convenient to have a variety of wines available to us. This is really added
value for the guests staying at Giuncheto. Rosa truly loves Giuncheto and
the people who come to experience Giuncheto cannot miss the care and
investment she makes in her surroundings. She makes "take care" of all us
seem simple and easy and effortless. She works hard and we really
appreciated her fine cooking and masterful presentations. She received
alot of rave reviews from me and all of my friends. She is the heart and
soul (as I wrote in her journal) of Villa Giuncheto. She took the whole
experience over the top for everyone of my friends. Everyone in Gallup knew
we were going on this trip. I am hopeful that some other people will want
to come to Giuncheto. I will sure be a huge advocate. If any of your
future customers want to talk with someone who has experienced the Villa, I
would be happy to be a reference. Additionally, Susan was most helpful in
terms of figuring out pacing and time frames especially with the children.
She is extremely effective in person----just a charming person. She also
helped on several occasions with communication between Rosa and some of the
guests.
Best,
Cheryl Beamer
James,
Bosco was great. The DVD and the website were
very helpful in getting to preview the property but there was one "problem"-
it was even better than we thought it would be. We are seasoned travelers
and it's not often that when I travel my expectations are exceeded. But
this time that happened. It was incredible- perfect for our situation. And
to think you kept telling me Bosco was the place for us and I kept pushing
back. My concern was Southern Tuscany Chianti but I was wrong and this was
perfect from a location perspective. We couldn't say enough positives about
the Villa or the experience overall.
The owner and his family were outstanding. They
were a major part of the experience and added immensely to the time we had.
Duccio, Daniela, Carlotta, Vittoria, Nonna and Adriano all did everything
imaginable ton support us while we were there. To cite one small example of
how accommodating they were- my wife had purchased 4 bottles of different
Brunellos for a wine tasting so we could decide on the wine we wanted to
have on the last night. Believe it or not, at 9:30 in the morning on our
last day we decided to do the tasting. Duccio happened to be there keeping a
fire going in the dining room and overheard our conversation. He immediately
offered to host it, set up and arrange the tasting and explain a great deal
about Brunellos as to what to look for. This was one of the highlights of
the entire trip- to have a wine producer lead a tasting, host it at 9:30 AM
and share his knowledge with us. There wasn't much they wouldn't have done
for us. Words fail me in trying to describe their hospitality.
I would recommend you without reservation and
would be happy to serve as a reference by either E-mail or telephone. In
fact, you will likely hear from some members of our party about renting a
Villa, perhaps even Bosco. I would definitely use Purple Fete again.
John Moyer
James,
First of all, let me
just say that we loved our 3 weeks at Casina di Mello. It quickly became our
"home" in Chianti, Tuscany and we truly lived the lifestyle suggested by the
property. Angela and Giorgio quickly established themselves as controlling
elements in the experience, and our contentment was maximized under their
attentive care.
We spent half of our
time on day trips, and the other half simply living at home. Almost
literally, we would go out for a day, and then spend a day at home, and then
out for a day, and back home for a day. In this way, all of our 8-person
family were accommodated; those who wanted to "go forth and experience" and
those who viewed the villa as a destination in its own right.
The booking process was
extremely easy, convenient and helpful. Of course, I had the advantage
of having your professionalism, credibility and integrity. Truthfully, I
relied on your verbal representation (of Casina di Mello). The pictures
available to me at the time did not do proper justice to the absolute beauty
and luxury of the property. The condition of the house and property was
SPECTACULAR. The stone house was spacious, with more living space than
necessary for the 4 bedrooms, and a world class luxe interior design. The
layout was particularly interesting, because the somewhat indirect routes to
bedrooms gives the impression that the house is far more expansive than it
really is. The stonework kept the house reasonably cool even in the heat of
July. The outdoor eating area was both practical and romantic, and we ate
ALL of our meals there. The pool was wonderful, and the 9' depth of the deep
end was particularly interesting in this age of universal litigation-adverse
2'-4' resort pools; we spent many, many days lounging poolside appreciating
the well-landscaped grounds, the views of the surrounding valley, and our
Italian villa lifestyle.
In the words of my
teenage daughter, Oh M'God! Giorgio and Angela are, as a team, a gift from
the gods. Their maintenance of the house and property kept it in pristine
condition. Their attention...their DOTING on us made us question the sanity
of ever leaving the house. Their meal service talents are extraordinarily
sublime. Angela is a professional and passionate chef whose kitchen
efforts consistently resulted in works of art. So good are her talents that
we realized that a gourmet multi-course (usually appetizer, primi, secondi,
salad, dolci, coffee) Italian meal for 8 could not possibly be more
satisfactorily experienced in a restaurant...nor with a better value...so
over the 3 weeks we let Angela plan many meals for us. Giorgio and Angela
were KEY elements of our contentment and satisfaction with Casina di
Mello...not to mention primary motivators for our long walks to ensure that
we continued to fit in our clothing.
Ever mindful that the
bulk of our travel experience was based in and on our rental of Casina di
Mello, I reiterate that our 3 weeks were an over-the-top wonderful
experience. I would use your services again in an instant, and would
recommend Purple Fete heartily to anyone considering Tuscany as a
destination. On a personal level, I want to thank you for making our
vacation a sublime and wonderful experience for all of us. Your attention to
the needs and desires of your customer was critical to my contentment, both
anticipated and realized. I could not possibly be more pleased with
our Italian experience, and particularly our enjoyment of our villa
lifestyle, and for that I thank you profoundly.
Mark Pullman
James,
Just wanted to let you
know that we had a fantastic time at Pipistrelli. It couldn’t have been
better. We were very impressed and can't wait to book another Purple Fete
villa (or Pipistrelli again).
The property was a
million times nicer in person. It exceeded my expectations, it could not
have been more perfect in any way.
Susan Pennington was such a wonderful and charming
woman. Our trip wouldn’t have been the same without her.
Thanks.
Adina Eigen
James,
I've been meaning to send you an email to tell
you how fantastic the villa was and what a great time we had. What can you
say about Giorgio and Angela. They were truly a dream come true. I think
you make a mistake in not saying more about the services that they provide.
Angela is an amazing cook (Fresh pasta, foccacia, pasta, steak on the
outdoor fireplace, home made polenta with Bolognese sauce, fresh fried
zucchini flowers, amazing salads, great frittatas in the morning, etc.,
etc. And the way they serve dinner, wines and after dinner drinks is great)
Eliza was very helpful as well.
The house was
extraordinary.
Bob Gold
James,
We were very pleased with the house and
property. It met our expectations and then some.
The owner and his family
were first class, amazingly kind and helpful.
Thanks again.
Aulaire Single
Hi James,
We are back from Italy
and had a wonderful time. Bellavista was superb! The villa is absolutely
beautiful we could not have asked for anything more. The staff was
wonderful and cooked us the most delicious meals. I will refer you and this
villa with confidence!
Thanks for everything.
We are all planning our next trip so you may be hearing from us again in the
very near future!
Sincerely,
Elissa Rickmers
The trip was wonderful. The house is fabulous --- comfortable,
large, charming, very liveable, views were stunning, the pool lovely. We very
much enjoyed the meals cooked by (and lessons by) Serena, the cooking school
teacher, really the best food we had…..thanks for your help --the house was
really special, and fit our needs perfectly.
-- Stephen Berzon
We found the process (booking process) convenient and helpful. Although it
was the first time working with you, we found you professional and reassuring.
The photos were accurate and upon arriving at the house, our expectations were
more than met. The house is amazing and truly beautiful-a touch of paradise.
Rosa was such a wonderful cook that we ate at home most evenings-as our
children said, “why go out when we have Rosa at home.” Rosa was a joy!!! She
was most helpful to everyone. She made our stay a real vacation for all. Elena
was a delight….We did enjoy your suggestions for trips, restaurants, and
wines.
--Mr. & Mrs. Robert Tardio
James,
The house and property were excellent. It exceeded my expectations. The
photo's of the property gave an idea but did not do the actual property
justice, it was more beautiful and special…..the lists (you provided) were
very helpful and it was something that referred to on a daily basis…..
Fantastic wines! Excellent selections.
Barbara (owner's daughter/caretaker) did such an outstanding job aiding us for
anything and everything, I can't imagine the stay without her assistance. She
went above and beyond the call of duty.
I would highly recommend Purple Fete and when I return to Europe I can only
hope you have the property that suits our trip!
--Charles Bertucio
James,
The property was truly magnificent! There was plenty of room for everyone to
do what they wanted when they wanted.
Rosa and Calla were efficient and helpful. Everyone felt very comfortable
there. At your suggestion, we did have Rosa prepare several meals, all of
which were scrumptious.
I would say, without reservation, that everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
We look forward to a return trip.
With regards,
--Denise Ellwood
Hi James,
Thank you for everything-we had the best time.
Both Villas were wonderful and each had its own personality and charm.
Giuncheto, as I know I don't need to tell you, is a magnificent property and
the up to date renovations at Terrubino made it very easy to enjoy. Merita
prepared spectacular meals and was so sweet and charming, Rosa was warm and
clearly seemed sad to see us go, and Mariaclaudia did a terrific job with
all the tour plans.
My family loved being in Tuscany and all that Italy had to offer-the food,
country side, small hill towns, museums and just hanging around looking at
the gorgeous country side.
The entire trip was an A+ for us
Lisa & Mitchell Newmark
James,
We had a fabulous time! The villa was lovely-I just got some of my pictures
back.
Rosa was a delicious cook and very nice to deal with and your wine selection
was wonderful too.
Thanks! It was a very memorable vacation and we will highly recommend your
services.
Nina
James,
I greatly appreciated that you
always followed up promptly with me and even called the villa while we were
there to make sure all was well. You responded quickly to my inquiry, were
very prompt with your replies to my questions and were very helpful to me in
making a final decision. I most appreciated that you always followed up
with me in a timely manner throughout the process. And I must say, it was
nice that I dealt exclusively with you and was not passed on to anyone else.
I felt well cared for.
The house and grounds were
actually much more beautiful than the pictures conveyed. I was a little
concerned that the property would not be what I envisioned but I must say it
greatly exceeded my expectations and was exactly what I hoped it would
be...very memorable and comfortable.
Bartek and Mikah were
exceptional. They really made each member of our party feel important and
special. They were entertaining, warm and extremely helpful. The meals
were outstanding and a special dinner and cake were prepared for my parents'
anniversary on our last evening. The housekeeping was excellent and very
respectful. We were most impressed with their ability to be both
professional and friendly. They took great care of us.
The villa was exceptional. We
enjoyed absolutely everything. You helped me pick the perfect property for
my parents' 50th wedding anniversary. Thank you for all your help and
reassurance along the way. I will be sure to tell anyone interested in
traveling to Tuscany that Purple Fete is the way to go.
Mary Lemanski
James,
The
reality (of the property) exceeded the expectations developed from the
photos and text-fantastic! (The caretakers of Boscarello) were most
gracious, a vital part of the experience, unmatched in our travels. I will
recommend Purple Fete whenever I think you can help a friend or
acquaintance.
Carter Schelling
James,
Thank you. The villa was
very attractive, new, and in an idyllic setting, and your recommendations
were very helpful. We especially liked the seafood place--Da Antonio. [Your
input] sets your service part from any other I have used. The owner and the
caretaker, Antoinette, were great.
You're the most
conscientious rental agents I've ever dealt with! You've been a pleasure to
deal with.
Larry Luing
James,
Now that we have
returned home and sadly our vacation is over, I just wanted to tell you how
fantastic everything was and thank you. It is very rare that something that
you find on the internet is even nicer then what is advertised. The house
was gorgeous, the pool was wonderful, and the views beyond description.
Merita was a great house keeper, cook and very nice person. The information
you provided was very helpful. It was really a vacation of a lifetime. Thank
you so very much. I have recommended you to everyone I know and hopefully,
we will be back again.
Sharon and Bill Levin and
family