I cannot say enough wonderful things about Diana. She planned the trip of a lifetime for my daughter and me, and I didn't have to lift a finger. Amidst trying to prepare our house to sell and move across the country, and my daughter having major brain surgery, and my husband working out of state, I had absolutely NO time to plan a trip to Italy. I gave Diana my budget and generally what we liked to do and she did everything. From transportation, to hotels, to private tours, to restaurants, to suggestions for time exploring on our own, Diana got it all exactly right. The the tour guides were so highly educated and over qualified I felt like we were getting a master class in Italian history and it made such a difference in how much we appreciated what we were seeing and visiting. The hotels were incredible and everyone from top to bottom was friendly and helpful to us. We felt so pampered and spoiled that I never imagined could be possible on our budget. I definitely want to go back as soon as possible and this time tour southern Italy and you can bet I will be calling Diana when...

I've had time to reflect on what a fabulous trip you planned for me and my family. I am overwhelmed by how perfectly every detail was planned and executed exactly according to your itinerary. Every plane, driver, guide was on time; all 3 of my guides were outstanding.

Pamplona's Gran Hotel La Perla was deluxe - our room next to Hemingway's. My arrival drew a crowd: no vehicles are allowed in the Plaza del Castillo but my driver had the steel guard posts lowered so our spiffy black Mercedes could solo across the Square to the La Perla where persons had gathered to see who the celebrity was. As I stepped out my granddaughter squealed, "That's my Grandmother!"

So glad to see San Sebastian in 4 hours with great guide who was a native. She walked as fast as I do. Skipped lunch so driver could drive me around Bilbao in daylight. My room at Domine Bilbao overlooked the Guggenheim Museum.

My guide in Barcelona, Lali, was terrific - also a native. She made Picasso come alive for me!! Loved her, loved the city.

And Silvia in Florence was absolutely fantastic. We...

Our family of six had the Positano/Amalfi Coast dream trip of a lifetime, thanks to Diana Dopson and D*Lux Travel! Diana has exceptional relationships with extraordinary people in Positano, listened to our interests and then helped us customize our trip to meet our goals - boats, beaches, cooking, winery, restaurant reservations, town and excursions such as Pompeii, Capri, the Vatican and more. Our adult children range in age from 18 - mid 20's and we designed our trip to meet everyone's dreams -- the right amount of touring, history, culinary and wine experiences, and relaxation. We met Diana when we were recommended to her when we were unable to find a villa (last minute). Diana found an incredible villa for us! Everyone she put us in contact with was gracious and professional, and went out of their way to provide the best possible trip. We already recommended Diana to a friend, who planned a similar trip for her family, and we both say we will absolutely work with Diana Dopson again!

The whole Italy trip is one of my life’s highlights.

Best vacation EVER! Working with Diana Dopson was a pleasure, We spoke about what my husband and I wanted to see/tour, transportation, and hotels in Italy, she arranged everything for us and our trip was perfect! .... What can I say breathtaking and thanks for the memories! We look forward to working with Diana on our next vacation! Thank you Diana for EVERYTHING!

We just cannot thank you enough for the amazing job you did planning our trip to France and Italy. We sang your praises every step of the way! Every time we got to another amazing hotel or a driver was waiting to whisk us away to our next location, we were so thankful for you. Even if we had lucked out and found one or two good hotels, we would have second guessed ourselves but using your recommendations, we were not only thrilled with everything, we knew that we were in the best possible places.... With our busy work schedules and young kids, a trip like this is not something that will happen very often for us so we are just so grateful that we were able to make the absolute most out of it and you get all the credit for that.

Ciao! Returned recently from a fabulous journey conducted by Diana Dopson! We had a very complicated itinerary for six people in two different hotels in five different cities (London, Florence, Pienza, Positano, and Rome)! We also visited other cities along the way, as well as the Isle of Capri!

Everything went off without a hitch every step of the way. Diana stayed in contact with us and communicated any changes such as names of drivers or anything we needed to know. We had excellent weather for two weeks except for two days, which Diana was on top of and had substitute excursions based on the weather. We loved all our guides and drivers and were very well taken care of. As we all told Diana, we couldn't have done it without her!

We highly recommend Diana to anyone wanting a well-coordinated trip!

After the passing of my wife I took my older children on a Spring Break week to Florence for “bonding time” and a break. How to fit it all in? Diana to the rescue, setting us up with places to go, personal guides, a chef and even a day’s travel through the hill towns and hidden wineries and olive presses of Tuscany. It was a magical week that could not have been more perfect. She catered to the desires of each of the of our own individual desires and whims. We never could have done it without Diana’s astute help, guidance, willingness and uncanny ability to stop on a dime to change various plans sometimes on the spur of the moment to do something completely different and new. It was a special time for our family. (And coincidentally has turned me into a hard-core Limoncello aficionado).

The trip was absolutely amazing. Each day was a little better than the last. Each guide was so perfect for each location and each place was so different. What an incredible way to get to know Italy. Grateful!

I went on the BFree Yoga retreat to the Amalfi Coast and it was the MOST MAGICAL and INVIGORATING TIME OF MY LIFE, a truly unforgettable trip! The trip started in Sorrento, the most beautiful place on Earth. We went on guided hikes, bike tours, boat rides and practiced yoga in incredible surroundings. We had a day trip to Naples and Pompeii where Diana arranged for a guide to show us the highlights of the city, food and museums. The second half of the trip, we were transported by private boat to Positano, and Diana arranged for hiking, fine dining and exploration. It would be impossible to do as many activities as we did without Diana’s preparation and organization.

Diana is not only an invaluable resource for traveling in Italy but she is the most fun, compassionate and even-keeled person. Diana went above and beyond all expectations with a week full of incredible activities that transpired so seamlessly.

I never imagined a trip being so incredible. My heart overflows with gratitude towards Diana for arranging this magical trip. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Such an exciting trip to Puglia in every respect! Each day so wonderful thanks to your great planning and friends along the way! Extraordinary time in Venice for us - so happy we extended 4 days.

Working with Diana was a breath of fresh air! She was able to pull together a trip of a lifetime for our clients in Florence, Italy, and they could not have been more happy. She has a wealth of knowledge and was able to put my mind at ease because of it. I have planned overseas trips on my own in the past, but as I have never been to these places she was able to provide helpful insight from her own experiences. She went out of her way to put together two very special tours - a guided tour of some select museums as well as a wine tour in the Tuscan countryside - and our clients were thrilled with their experience. I will definitely contact her for future travel needs!

... The trip exceeded all expectation, it was truly an unforgettable week. There was a richness to the experience that I can not put into words, but the comfort of knowing that I was there and lived all that we did makes my heart sing. I kept a journal and collected small knick-knacks along the way that I have by my bedside. When I look at them, I am brought back to one of the best weeks of my life. If you are considering going, GO! You will be treated like a queen or king, and travel through these foreign lands with ease. The stresses that come with travel will not be there.... You will be taken care of, inspired and moved in ways you would never expect. You will eat the best food there is, drink delicious wine and soak in so much beauty that your heart will want to explode. If you are thinking about going, make it happen, there will be no regrets, I promise!

I wanted to personally thank you for such an amazing time. It was seriously a once in a life time experience, and you were a big part of that. As a young person traveling abroad for the first time, it has really opened up a world of possibilities and new potential.

Our trip was amazing! Everything was absolutely perfect thanks to Diana's attention to detail and expert knowledge of all things Italian. We loved everything, especially Diana!

The trip was just perfect in every way – a great balance of wonderful events! All we had to do was show up and take it all in!!!

... We had a fantastic trip (two weeks in Venice, Florence, Tuscany, and Rome), and it is all due to the expert planning and arranging by Diana Dopson. She was an invaluable resource for traveling in Italy. She was always available to answer travel questions and to provide support if needed during the trip. Thanks so much, Diana!

My daughter and I traveled to Florence where we enjoyed 4 days of a fantastic itinerary! A private tour of the Uffizi gallery and then off on Vespas to tour Florence from above! Another great day spent with Sylvia for our private cooking class and a chance to see the indoor markets where we learned how to "taste" olive oil the proper way. Our final day was terrific with Lello to Southern Tuscany. What breathtaking views and an amazing lunch at a place Diana loves (and I see why)! Thanks Diana! What a fabulous trip we will never forget!

We had an unbelievable trip!! Diana made every moment so special, and provided insights to Italy that we could have never found on our own. The guides were phenomenal - extremely professional, and knowledgeable about their city and surrounding areas. Our daughter incorporated one of our guides into an English paper, detailing her passion for Rome, and wisdom that she shared. Wouldn't travel to Italy again, or recommend it to anyone, without incorporating Diana into the trip planning!

Your planning, your extraordinary knowledge of the history of Venice, the itinerary that included something for everyone - gave all of us unforgettable experiences that we will always treasure! Our heartfelt thanks once again for your kind words, your thoughtfulness and for making our lives richer, experiencing Venice like we never could have without you!

Your planning and exquisite attention to detail has been a joy to experience!

... full of great memories of a great week full of culture, history, delicious food, new point of views, new friends, spending time with long time friends and laughs. Thank you for putting a wonderful week together.

My wife and I decided to pursue a life-long dream and travel to Italy for a second honeymoon. It was my wife’s first trip abroad and we were a bit nervous about the logistics (everything ranging from flight coordination to ground transportation to foreign currency availability to an inability to speak the local language). Diana served as our liaison and coordinated everything. She was also readily available to answer questions and make recommendations, including recommending local guides whom we absolutely loved and have stayed in touch with. Everything ran like clockwork. Our hotels and restaurants exceeded our expectations, and Diana planned out an itinerary that allowed us to see more in 2 weeks than many folks enjoy in a month. We have referred Diana to several family members and friends and all have enjoyed a similar experience – she is absolutely the best! We are already talking about a return trip and would not consider using anyone else.

Thank you so very much for such a wonderful week in Tuscany. We just loved everything about it – the villa, the outings, the other participants, the food, wine and general ambiance.

We had an incredible Italian vacation which far exceeded our expectations thanks to your leadership and attention to detail. You delivered a lively activities agenda, in a fantastic villa which allowed the group to bond....

We have such wonderful memories (and pictures) of Italy thanks to your exceptional planning.

Thank you much. I will never forget The David, the most beautiful thing I have ever seen, forever ingrained in my mind.

Chef Leonardo and Monica were wonderful – a great meal!! We also love the villa. Thanks for all you have done to make this trip memorable!

We love working with you!

We had a wonderful time and so enjoyed everything you did to make the trip such a success.

Diana Dopson planned a three week trip for us last year and is the perfect person to assist in planning your Italian trip. She loves all things Italian, speaks the language and spends large amounts of time there. Diana studies Italian history, art and culture and can provide excellent guides in any region of Italy. She is a meticulous planner and provides you with a personalized itinerary for your entire trip, including maps and information on the history and important features of each area. Diana has visited or stayed at all the hotels or B&B’s that she suggests. Additionally, she visited accommodations that we added. All means of transportation (air, trains, cars with drivers and rental cars) are carefully arranged. When issues with transport, hotels or guides crop up she is a phone call away and able to solve any problem.

My sales pitch [for Diana and D*Lux Travel] includes her education, intimate knowledge of the country, connections with professional guides, and her ability to listen to clients and satisfy our needs and expectations – along with meeting our budget.

As a family, we took our very first European excursion this summer. Diana had her hands full planning for the six of us (two adults and four children) to tour Italy, Spain and Germany (8 cities) over 5 weeks. The suggestions that Diana made for our activities and tours were right in line with the kind of hands-on and up-close and personal experiences we wanted to have. We knew that we were in store for something special, but we had no idea how smoothly and phenomenally everything would go. Our time abroad was absolutely magical! We truly can’t wait to have Diana help plan the details of our next trip.

We just loved our trip to Italy, including the Venice Biennale, all arranged by Diana. She is meticulous in planning every detail, so very knowledgeable about everything Italian including art and architecture, and is a delight to be with.

We can’t stop thinking or talking about Venice.... We loved it all! .... The trip feels like a fabulous dream.

The accommodations were first class and our guides in each city were outstanding. All of the travel arrangements throughout Italy were perfect. I can’t tell you much we appreciate your efforts! We will be calling when we are ready for Southern Italy.

The side trips, adventures, city tours, guides, etc that you planned for us were all excellent. While I had already been to some of the cities – Florence, San Gimignano and Siena – I learned so much more about them with my time with you.... Actually, there were so many highs on this trip I can’t even start to mention them all.

Diana, we have to say THANK YOU for your tremendous efforts to have a trip so well thought out, organized, and with just the right amount of structure and unstructured time. Your knowledge of the areas, the guides, and what all a family of 4 with the youngest being 7 could do made our trip to Paris-Normandy-Venice-Florence-Siena-and-Rome far exceeded our expectations.... Thanks for suggesting guides and transfers in every city. They were fantastic and made every day easy and enjoyable. We were so impressed that you kept up with our itinerary, emailed us as we changed locations, and confirmed that the schedule was on track. We had a fabulous time and many memorable experiences.

Robert in Paris is the best, Lello made the drive to Siena superb, each guide in Italy was so friendly and absolutely wonderful historians and storytellers. Francis’ knowledge regarding Normandy was so very impressive. We are already planning our next vacation thanks to you!

Was truly an experience we will never forget, and we are so grateful to you for putting it together for us and being sure everything went smoothly.

Your attention to detail and follow through were very much appreciated. We all have wonderful memories of our family vacation.

Thank you many, many times over.

This experience is resonating as one of the most beautiful of my life, and I feel so blessed.... This trip simply expands my view and so much more.

Diana provides lots of extras on her trips that are geared to the interests of her travelers, and we do travel well without spending lavishly.

My daughter and I traveled to Florence where we enjoyed 4 days of a fantastic itinerary! A private tour of the Uffizi gallery and then off on Vespas to tour Florence from above! Another great day spent with Sylvia for our private cooking class and a chance to see the indoor markets where we learned how to "taste" olive oil the proper way. Our final day was terrific with Lello to Southern Tuscany. What breathtaking views and an amazing lunch at a place Diana herself has enjoyed (and I see why)!

Thank you for interpreting, for teaching, for your great happy spirit! You made this trip to Italy a real joy. Let’s go again!

We appreciate your experience, insights, can-do attitude and ebullient spirit, 24/7!

The food was so good, and the wine, I have never tasted such wonderful wines and the Prosecco! Thank you so much for the treats in my room and the attention to gluten free food. It was a terrific trip.

She loves all things Italian, speaks the language and spends large amounts of time there. Diana studies Italian history, art and culture and can provide excellent guides in any region of Italy. She is a meticulous planner and provides you with a personalized itinerary for your entire trip, including maps and information on the history and important features of each area. Diana has visited or stayed at all the hotels or B&B’s that she suggests. Additionally, she visited accommodations that we added. All means of transportation (air, trains, cars with drivers and rental cars) are carefully arranged. When issues with transport, hotels or guides crop up she is a phone call away and able to solve any problem. She was an important part of our memorable Italian experience.