I am planning a surpirse trip to italy for my partners 40th bday in spring of 2008. Does anyone have suggestions re; a GLBT tour group vs finding and renting a place on our own. I have never done this before so need a little help. Am mostly interested in a couple of days in Rome and several days in Tuscany region.There may be from 3-5 of us M & F traveling. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Doug

Hi Douglas, I think you have enough time to organize the trip by yourself.

I can help you with the stay in Tuscany: visit http://digilander.libero.it/gorellik/villaridi. They rent apartments very close to Florence in the countryside.

Italy is a nice place to visit... I think it'll be more enjoyable when you visit it with whole bunch of fun people! I am with a good company now in my Casablanca trip . good luck on your travel.. =)

Hi,
I would suggest doing your own planning, and spending the time in Umbria as a base from which to explore Tuscany as well on day trips. An Umbria base gives you a better and more authentic experience. Try Genius Loci Country Inn (www.geniuslociumbria.com) between Montefalco and Bevagna and close to Tuscany
for a GREAT base with a NEAT Umbrian-American manager whose name is Michael. He is so helpful and runs an outstanding place.

Hi Doug! Should you be interested in a place that's not yet spoiled by mass tourism but is close to Lucca, Florence and Pisa and also has a stunning pool, please visit www.lascuoladifurio.it . It a holiday home, you can rent self cateng apartments. The site is in Italian but the staff is helpful and they can send you the translation in English.
What a lovely thought for your partner!
Ciao Tiz