I have gotten my info for my Ciao Italy! trip next week. I see that Globus offers many optional excursion tours during the week. Has any one taken these? Are they worth the extra $?
Some offer meals, are they in restaurants that you would recommend? The offerings are Roman Highlights and Pizza vs Roman Highlights and Dinner. Tuscan Dinner, Renaissance Dinner, Venetian Night Out, Gondola Serenade and Lagoon Cruise to Burano. I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has tried any of these Optional Excursions. Thanks!

The optional tours listed are only "possibilities". . You will get the "real" list on the 1st or 2nd day of your tour.
The Tuscan Dinner is very nice.. ..gets you out into the countryside for a good meal. Or you might be offered the Renaissance Dinner in Paolina Bonaparte's palace. Good food, beautiful setting. I also did the Venetian Night. Another decent meal and a chance to experience Venice at night (without the crowds). . You MUST do the gondola ride but the optional is pricey. You can do it on your own for a lot less. (6 people for €100 instead of €40 a person ) Doing it on your own will put you on your Tour Director's "LIST" as they get a commission on the optionals they sell.
The trip to Burano is also a little pricey but well woth it. Beautiful fishing island with excellent food!
Last month we opted out of the Roman Highlights and did it on our own as I have been to Rome 6 times already. But those who did it said it was worthwhile as it takes in all the major sites.
You will love Italy, but be prepared for the heat and the crowds. And paying to use the bathroom If you can appreciate the differences, you'll have a marvelous experience. Just remember, it's not like home, (or "your home") just a different culture.
Any specific questions? E-mail me at sgillen@zoominternet.net. .
Ciao
Sue

I also did the Tuscan Dinner and the food was fabulous and the ride through the countryside was too! The lagoon cruise to Burano was well worth the money not just because of the included meal but because of the island itself. You will get some great photo opportunities there as well as a chance to purchase some attractive masks at a price considerably lower than you will pay in Venice. The small ones make great souveniers for all your friends at home and they are lightweight and easy to pack. Skip the group gondola cruise- you can do it much cheaper solo.