Mount Etna and the Gambino Family winery

by David McGuffin | Jan 8, 2026 | Blog, Destinations, Eating & Drinking, Experiencing Europe

by David McGuffin

I was up on Mount Etna with my Sicilian friend, Paolo, a few months ago. After winding through the lava fields and trekking down into a crater, we had had all the cold and desolate volcanic slopes we could stand for the day. So we headed back down the northern slope of Etna to the Gambino family winery.

The Gambino estate sits at about 2,600 feet above sea level on the eastern slope of Mount Etna, perched right there in the National Park with views stretching across the Taormina coastline and the Mediterranean. Getting there means winding your way up mountain roads through volcanic landscape, and I won’t lie to you—the drive can be a bit nerve-wracking if you’re not used to mountain driving. But the moment you arrive and see those terraced vineyards spreading out with the sea glittering in the distance, you understand why this place is special.

Here’s what makes Gambino extraordinary. This is a family operation that’s been at it for over twenty years, with the Raciti Gambino siblings—Francesco, Filadelfo, and Mariagrazia—pouring their hearts into every aspect of the winery. Francesco grew up watching his parents buy land piece by piece on Etna, and his mother Maria came from a long line of Etna vintners. You can taste it in the wines, and you can feel it in how the family welcomes visitors. When Filadelfo takes you down into their cellar—carved ten meters deep into volcanic rock—and explains their winemaking philosophy, you’re not getting a corporate tour. You’re getting invited into their passion.

The volcanic terroir here is remarkable. The soil is rich with minerals from Etna’s eruptions, and those high-altitude vineyards get that dramatic temperature swing between day and night that’s crucial for developing complex flavors in the grapes. They’re working with indigenous varieties—Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio for the reds, Carricante and Catarratto for the whites. The Tifeo Etna Rosso has this beautiful pale ruby color with aromas that just keep unfolding—cherry, leather, coffee, vanilla. And the Tifeo Etna Bianco? It’s got this bright citrus character with touches of pepper. I could taste the soil and the sea breeze in it.

We booked their full experience—the wine tasting paired with food. They serve you five wines alongside a three-course meal of traditional Sicilian specialties, and their sommeliers know how to guide you through the pairings without being pretentious about it. The antipasti plate and the lentil and chickpea soup were perfect pairings with the wine. And that view from their terrace? Breathtaking doesn’t quite cover it. You’re looking out over terraced vineyards with the Mediterranean spread out before you, and you’re tasting wines that couldn’t come from anywhere else on earth.

The Gambino siblings practice sustainable viticulture—hand-picking their grapes, using natural pest control, doing things the way their parents and grandparents would recognize. But they’re not stuck in the past. They’ve married traditional methods with modern techniques to create wines that speak authentically to this place while meeting international quality standards. You can find their wines in restaurants, but experiencing them here, where they’re made, is something entirely different.

What I love about bringing people to Gambino is that authenticity. There’s no pretense here, no over-the-top wine snobbery. Just a family that loves what they do, making exceptional wines in one of the most dramatic settings you’ll find anywhere. They welcome you like you’re visiting their home—because you are. After your tasting and tour, you can browse their shop, stock up on bottles (they ship worldwide), and maybe grab some of their olive oil, which comes from trees growing at the same altitude as the vines.

The winery gets busy, especially in summer, so I suggest booking ahead. And yes, it takes effort to get there. But that effort is part of what makes it memorable. This isn’t a quick stop on a tour bus circuit. It’s a genuine experience with people who have deep roots in this volcanic soil, who’ve been dealing with Etna’s challenges and gifts for generations, and who make wines that taste like nowhere else on earth.

1977 Lunch in Rome on flight layover to Athens

David and Paolo

Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae

by David McGuffin | Jan 6, 2026 | Blog, Destinations, Experiencing Europe

by David McGuffin

I’ve been leading tours to Greece for years now, and I’ve found most travelers pack their itineraries with Athens and the islands—and don’t get me wrong, those are must-sees. But if you want to experience something truly special, something that’ll stick with you long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase back home, you need to make the trek to Bassae.

The Temple of Apollo Epicurius sits high up in the Peloponnese mountains at about 3,700 feet, perched on a remote mountainside that feels like the edge of the world. Getting there isn’t exactly a hop, skip, and jump—you’re looking at about an hour’s drive from the nearest town through winding mountain roads. But trust me, that journey is part of what makes this place so remarkable. When you finally arrive and see this ancient temple standing against the rugged Arcadian landscape, it hits you. This is what the ancient Greeks were all about—reaching for the divine in the most awe-inspiring places they could find.

Here’s what makes Bassae extraordinary. First, it’s one of the best-preserved Greek temples you’ll see anywhere, right up there with the Hephaisteion in Athens. The locals built it back in the 5th century BC, probably designed by Ictinus—yes, the same architect who worked on the Parthenon. They dedicated it to Apollo Epicurius, which means Apollo the Helper, supposedly after he protected them from a plague. And get this: unlike most Greek temples that face east-west, this one runs north-south. Some say it’s because of the steep terrain, others think it is aligned with an older temple on the site. Either way, it’s different, and different is good when you’re exploring ancient Greece.

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it—the temple is currently covered with a protective tent structure. It’s not the most photogenic thing you’ve ever seen (from afar). They shrouded the temple to prevent further weathering and decay, but the tent detracts from that “ancient ruins in the mountains” aesthetic we all love. The beautiful sculptural frieze that once decorated the interior—showing battles between Greeks and Amazons, and Lapiths and Centaurs—was carted off to the British Museum back in the day. I’ve seen those in London, as well, but that’s a whole other conversation, and one the Greeks aren’t too happy about.

But here’s the thing. Even with the tent and without the original sculptures, standing at Bassae is an experience you can’t get at the more famous sites. The remoteness that kept this temple remarkably intact for over two millennia is the same quality that makes visiting it feel like a genuine discovery. You’re not battling crowds or tour buses. Instead, you’re surrounded by wild, windswept mountains with views stretching across untamed valleys. That isolation lets you really feel what those ancient worshippers must have felt when they climbed up here to honor Apollo.

I can only bring my friends here when I’m driving with 4-6 people. But when we get here, they always tell me Bassae was one of the tour’s highlights. It’s authentic. It’s dramatic. And it reminds you that the best travel experiences aren’t always the ones in the guidebooks—sometimes they’re the ones that take a little extra effort to reach.

Exploring Beyond Europe: New Destinations, New Adventures!

by David McGuffin | Nov 8, 2025 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Destinations

For almost fifty years, my heart has belonged to Europe—until a single sunset in the Serengeti changed everything.

I’d spent nearly five decades leading tours through cobblestone streets and medieval castles, convinced I’d seen it all. But as I grew older, I realized there was a finite number of days left on this Earth, so we’d better experience all we can while we can. That’s how I found myself standing in a Toyota Land Cruiser, camera in hand, marveling at a herd of giraffes gliding across a brilliant orange Serengeti sunset—about as far from a Tuscan hill town as you can imagine.

Europe will always be my choice destination. I’ve spent 48 years showing folks like you around my favorite European places. I still cherish those jokes that I’ll lead tours when I’m 90, encouraging my group to “move along; it’s just another 10-minute walk.” But something shifted in me that day in Tanzania. I realized there’s a whole world of wonder waiting beyond the familiar.

Why Go Beyond Europe?

Like I said, “I’m not getting any younger.” That’s why I’ve crafted my Exploring Beyond Europe series—small-group tours that take you to places where the culture, landscape, and wildlife are unlike anything you’ll find in the USA or Europe.

If you’re feeling that same restlessness, that whisper asking “what else is out there?”—you’re exactly who these journeys are for.

Our adventures in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands are a perfect example: think volcanic islands with blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises lumbering through misty highlands, and snorkeling with playful sea lions. These trips are designed with the same spirit as our European tours—immersive, authentic, and always focused on connecting you with local people and experiences.

What Makes These Journeys Special?

Just like our European itineraries, these Exploring Beyond Europe trips are all about small groups, personal guidance, and immersive local experiences. We work with trusted guides, stay in locally owned lodges, charter boats owned by our friends, and make sure every day is packed with opportunities to learn, taste, and explore. It’s travel that’s both adventurous and comfortable—always in the McGuffin style!

Here’s what sets our adventures apart:

Small group sizes (only 12 people) mean more flexibility and camaraderie—you’ll actually get to know your fellow travelers, and we can pivot when we discover a hidden gem or local festival. Personal guidance from me and our expert local partners ensures you’re not just another face in a tour bus; you’re part of a curated experience shaped by decades of travel wisdom. And authentic experiences are at the heart of everything we do—from home-cooked meals in Andean villages and photo hunting for wild game in Tanzania, to hikes through cloud forests where your guide grew up.

On a recent Safari tour, we were sitting around the dinner table recalling our adventures the last few days. Everyone shared their highlight, their wow moment, they were all different, yet the same… Roy shared, “For years I’d dreamed of going on a safari to experience the animals in the wild, I’ve enjoyed every moment and now I can tick this off my bucket list.”

Travel Tips for New Frontiers

Stepping outside your comfort zone doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or safety. Here’s what I’ve learned from taking European travelers to new continents:

Pack layers, not suitcases. Climate varies dramatically—from chilly morning game drives to hot afternoon hikes. Lightweight, breathable layers work everywhere from the Galápagos to the Serengeti.

Embrace local rhythms. Unlike Europe’s predictable schedules, many destinations operate on “island time” or “safari time.” This isn’t inefficiency; it’s a different relationship with life. Go with it, and you’ll find yourself more relaxed than you’ve been in years.

Say yes to the unfamiliar. That guinea pig dish in Peru? The fermented tea in the Himalayas? Some of my best travel memories come from saying yes when my instinct was to politely decline.

Trust the expertise. Our local guides know these places intimately—where to find the best light for photos, which trails are less crowded, when the sea lions are most playful. Listen to them, and you’ll have experiences other tourists miss entirely.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Europe will always hold a special place in my heart—and in our tour calendar. But life is short, and the world is vast and waiting. Whether it’s watching a leopard lounge in an acacia tree, snorkeling alongside sea turtles older than most European cathedrals, or sharing stories around a campfire under the Southern Cross, these new adventures offer something your soul didn’t even know it was craving.

I’ve spent 48 years perfecting the art of small-group travel. Now I’m taking everything I’ve learned and applying it to the rest of the world. Join me, and let’s explore beyond Europe together.

Browse our upcoming Exploring Beyond Europe itineraries, or reach out to chat about which adventure might be calling your name. Trust me—that sunset in the Serengeti is waiting for you too.

Lion Cub

Galapagos Seal

Catamaran Anahi

Giraffe

Leopard crossing road

When History Gets Stolen: The Louvre Heist

by David McGuffin | Oct 26, 2025 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Destinations, Experiencing Europe

Last Sunday, I was on my way to church when I heard the news —the Louvre had been robbed. Not pickpockets lifting wallets from distracted tourists, mind you, but an actual heist. Four thieves with angle grinders and a furniture lift had just pulled off what authorities are calling one of the boldest museum robberies in modern history.

It happened Sunday morning, October 19th, at 9:30 a.m., while tourists queued outside, clutching their pre-purchased tickets and cameras. The crew scaled a furniture lift to a second-floor window of the Galerie d’Apollon, forced it open, and in seven minutes flat, smashed display cases and fled with eight pieces of Napoleonic jewelry—emerald necklaces, diamond tiaras, brooches worn by Empress Eugénie and Marie-Louise. They fumbled Empress Eugénie’s crown during their escape, damaging its 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds.

The haul? Prosecutors say $102 million, though officials call it “inestimable cultural and historical value.” President Macron called it “an attack on a heritage that we cherish.”

I’ve stood in that same Galerie d’Apollon, where the inscription above the door proclaims, “Opened 10 August 1793 by legislative action for all the people of France.” Entering the Galerie, you can’t help but look up, gaping open-jawed at the lavish decor… gold, gold, gold, everywhere! After a fire destroyed this palace wing, Louis XIV commissioned the Galerie in the 1660s and dedicated it to Apollo, the Greek god of the sun and arts.

The reports and news stories about the robbery continued all last week. Then, this morning, I heard reports that one of the thieves was arrested at Paris’ Charles De Gaulle Airport as he was preparing to leave the country. But, I can’t help but wonder: how does the world’s most-visited museum become vulnerable in broad daylight?

Join me in Paris, or almost anywhere in Europe!

Paris is my favorite big city in all of Europe. It has so much to offer, from museums like the Louvre, quaint neighborhood cafés, green parks, the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, fantastic food, and more. Where many tour companies “do Paris” in a whirlwind two-day tour, I’ve designed my tours to spend at least four days in the city. This gives you time to slow down and experience the City of Light, get out and explore on your own, while still seeing the major tourist sights with your local guide. Check out my Best of France, or London, Paris, Rome tours to savor Paris at a slower pace.

Discover the Best of Italy with David McGuffin

by David McGuffin | Oct 9, 2025 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Destinations, Essential Travel Resources, Experiencing Europe

I’ve been traveling in Italy for the last few weeks and recently encountered a fellow who said he was touring Italy, too. We struck up a conversation and come to find out, he was on a big bus group tour and was visiting Rome today. This fellow was worn out, hot and sweaty, and decked out with a “whisper” audio device hanging around his neck, the earpiece dangling down to his knees. He said, “Rome is challenging. Fifty of us have followed this woman up there with the umbrella all morning. She’s Italian, with a heavy accent. She probably has some good information, but I keep falling behind and losing the audio signal, and when I can hear it, I can’t understand her.” He went on to tell me his tour had 50 passengers, and the tour was not at all like he had envisioned. I chuckled and was reminded of this SNL skit with Adam Sandler, where he promotes the fictional Romano Tours to Italy.

This guy said he hoped he and his wife would have time to slow down, have a glass of wine, and enjoy Rome. But, if today is like all the others, they would shuffle through their sightseeing, get back on their bus, and return to the hotel for a group dinner. He hoped to see Italy’s beautiful landscapes, learn about its history, and experience tasty pasta. Instead, “we are led around like cattle, packed on a big bus, rushed through sightseeing, and whisked off to the next thing on the agenda.”

You Deserve a Better Tour Experience

If you are looking for a slower, more relaxed tour experience in Italy without the stress of massive tour groups, my Best of Italy Tour promises small groups (no more than 18 people) delivering an intimate European adventure that seasoned travelers rave about.

The Complete Italian Journey: 15 Days of Authentic Experiences

In 15 days, we will visit our favorite and famous destinations north of Rome. Beginning in Rome, you’ll experience the essential tourist sights and classic destinations. Then, travel to the delightful villages of the Cinque Terre, and enjoy two days exploring this coastal region where the mountains literally fall into the sea. Volterra, my choice for the quintessential Tuscan hilltown, is sure to win you over to the “la dolce vita” lifestyle. Florence, the “cradle of the Renaissance,” will have you walking in the steps of Michelangelo, DaVinci, and the Medici. The romantic canal-laced city, Venice, rounds out the big three tourist sites. Finally, we will cap off the tour by relaxing on beautiful Lake Como and then take a quick look at Milan’s bustling city center. (Watch David’s highlight video here.)

Why Travelers Choose our Best of Italy Tour

If you’ve been considering a big-bus or big company Italy tour, but want something more personal and off-the-beaten-path, my approach offers the perfect balance. Recent travelers praised their guide, Ilaria, for being “well organized and detailed” while “avoiding the tourist traps, selecting great restaurants serving authentic cuisine.” You can read plenty of honest reviews and accolades here, https://davidmcguffin.com/testimonials-all/italy-tour-reviews/.

Unlike big bus tour operations, my mission is to encourage Americans to broaden their cultural mindset through engaging and exciting travel experiences in Europe, focusing on authentic connections rather than checking boxes on a rushed itinerary.

What Sets This Tour Apart for Discerning Travelers

Stress-Free Planning: No need to worry about tips and gratuities; we take care of all that. Hotels are clean and safe, have private baths, and are in the center of the tourist sites and city centers. We include all your breakfasts and about half of your dinners in the costs.

Expert Local Knowledge: Tour leaders and local guides are experts who share destinations’ art, history, and culture, bringing each location to life with insider stories and hidden gems.

Flexible Pacing: The tour balances guided activities with free time, allowing you to explore independently or rest as needed. Physical activity is rated from “light” to “your choice,” accommodating different fitness levels.

Smart Travel Investment for Your Time and Budget

Given that you are laying down a sizable chunk of change for a tour, you deserve more than cramped buses and rushed schedules. Value, comfort, authenticity, and meaningful experiences far outweigh bargain-basement prices. All our tours include guaranteed small groups of 6-18 travelers, all tours and admissions, traditional dining experiences at favorite restaurants, a full-time Exploring Europe guide, and plenty of free time to explore on your own.

ScalaTurkiGroup

Scala dei Turchi – Sicily

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Eiffel Tower – Paris

Sinj Croatia

Ready for Your Italian Adventure?

If you’re tired of reading about Italy and ready to experience it, my Best of Italy tour offers the perfect introduction to this captivating country. With decades of experience guiding Americans through Europe, David understands what travelers want: comfort, authenticity, and memories that last a lifetime. Don’t let another year pass, wondering “what if?” Italy is there waiting for you, and with our expert guidance, you’ll discover why travelers consistently rate this as a trip of a lifetime. Visit https://davidmcguffin.com/tours/italy-tours/ to begin planning your Italian adventure today.

Experience Laid-Back Tuscany: My Villa Vacation Adventure

by David McGuffin | Sep 12, 2025 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Destinations, Essential Travel Resources, Experiencing Europe

There’s something magical about slowing down in Tuscany. After years of crisscrossing Europe at a whirlwind pace, I’ve found that the best memories are often made when you simply let Italy happen around you. This week, I am trading the busy multi-country itineraries for a week at a sun-drenched villa near Volterra—and I can’t wait to share what makes this Tuscan Villa Vacation so special.

La Dolce Vita: Slow Mornings & Vineyard Views

Waking up to rolling hills, sun baked wheat fields, fog settling in the valleys, and the scent of cypress trees and herbs, our days begin with strong coffee and no agenda. The villa—modern, comfortable, and perched right in the middle of a working vineyard—becomes our home base for a different kind of Italian adventure. Some mornings, I’ll wander the grounds or just relax by the pool, soaking up the peace that only Tuscany can deliver.

Cooking, Wine, and True Tuscan Hospitality

One of the highlights of this trip is rolling up my sleeves and putting on an apron, for a hands-on cooking lesson right in the villa kitchen. Guided by the Del Duca family, we will learn to craft traditional Tuscan dishes—then we will sit down together to enjoy the fruits of our labor with plenty of local wine. The laughter, stories, and flavors always contribute to an unforgettable experience.

Day Trips: The Best of Tuscany at Your Own Pace

Each day brings new adventure—without the rush. We will explore the medieval charm of Volterra, marvel at Siena’s grand piazza, and wander the ancient streets of Lucca and Pisa. There’s always time to linger over lunch, chat with locals, and discover hidden corners most tourists miss. And always, we returned to the villa for sunset and camaraderie.

Your Invitation: Join Me for the Next Tuscan Villa Vacation

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Tuscany at a gentler pace—savoring local food, sipping Chianti in the vineyard, and enjoying the company of fellow travelers—this is your invitation. My Tuscan Villa Vacation is all about authentic moments and genuine relaxation, with all the details handled so you can truly unwind. Spots fill up quickly for 2026, so take a look at the dates and join me for a taste of la dolce vita!

May 22–31, 2026
September 3–12, 2026

Ready to make memories in Tuscany?

Find all the details and reserve your spot for the Tuscan Villa Vacation.

Your adventure starts here!

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