Slowly savor sun-kissed Puglia, where history, art, and gastronomy intertwine to create the perfect soirée experience. We like to say what Florence is to the Renaissance, Lecce is to the Baroque.  With art historian and Lecce local Awdie Coppola, be immersed in this baroque masterpiece whose stunning churches and glistening travertine piazzas are largely untouched by mass tourism. Delight in the whimsical, cone-shaped houses of UNESCO World Heritage site Alberobello, and wander through the picturesque alleys of Cisternino, where time seems to stand still. Bask in the historic coastal beauty of Otranto, with its breathtaking Cathedral carpeted in Norman mosaics, and soak up the authentic charm of a true swimming hole in Castro Marina di Diso. Stroll the labyrinthine old town of Ostuni, the "White City," with its gleaming buildings perched on a hill and relax at its nearby beaches. 

Indulge in the region's rich culinary heritage, savoring the freshest seafood, creamy burrata, dainty orecchiette, and the irresistible pasticciotto—a local pastry with sweet shortcrust dough and creamy filling. Venture into Basilicata to visit UNESCO-recognized Matera, a city carved from stone with ancient cave dwellings that tell tales of millennia past. Stay in unique luxury accommodations, from a grand palazzo to a boutique  “cave” hotel to a 5-star converted masseria (aka historic fortified farmhouse), all carefully curated by Dana herself. 

This journey through Puglia promises not just sights but a deep dive into the soul of Italy's southern gem, encouraging a slow travel ethos. For those who wish to extend their stay in Italy, living like a local and immersing themselves in language and art history lessons, we will offer options for longer itineraries based in Lecce.

Your Tour Director and Study Leader

We will be accompanied by excellent local guides throughout our trip, personally vetted by your Tour Director, Dana Conley. 

Dana fell in love with international travel while studying in Italy during her junior year abroad at Stanford University, where she majored in International Relations. Before founding Conley & Silvers (C&S) fifteen years ago, Dana’s career spanned from being a researcher in Asian security matters at the Pentagon and International security think tanks to art appraisal and directing an art gallery.  In 2009, Dana eventually made her home in France for six years, pursuing her passion for travel and cultural curiosities, and has explored over 50 countries in search of authentic adventures, beautiful meals, and life-changing moments to share with her private and organizational clients. 

Via C&S, Dana’s goal is to provide guests with the highest level of customer service while creating magical, bespoke itineraries. Taking time to understand each traveler's purpose and passions, Dana and her worldwide team have joyfully cultivated a devoted following of treasured clients.   When Dana is not managing a tour or on a reconnaissance mission, she divides her time between Europe, the USA, and the Bahamas where visiting museums, yoga, golf, boating, and beach walks with her beloved dog Ruby reign as her favorite pastimes.

 

Born and raised in Lecce, Puglia, of an Anglo-Italian family, Awdie Coppola was brought up bilingual in English and Italian. He speaks five languages and is a freelance translator, interpreter and lecturer, as well as teacher of English and Spanish. He graduated in translation at the University of Trieste, specializing in Archaeology, History and Tourism. For over 30 years he has worked in the tourist sector as a Tour Guide in Northern Italy, the United Kingdom, Albania and Greece and since 2008 mainly in Puglia and Southern Italy. For many reasons Puglia has always been his favorite region in Italy. Puglia is an inspiring blend of flavours, colours, and fragrances unique in the Mediterranean. Puglia and its history, culture and lifestyle are key aspects of Awdie’s introduction to the region. As a native local expert with his vast knowledge and enthusiasm will let you let you experience a unique and unforgettable tour of Puglia.

 

Tell Me More!

Conley & Silvers small group trips are by invite only and it is an exclusive list. Our guests are culturally curious, fun loving, kind, open minded, enjoy a good history lesson and are physically able to handle the outlined itinerary.  No sticks in the mud allowed.  Because of this, our repeat client rate is outstanding.  Send us a message using the form below if you'd like more information on this trip and how to get access to the full invitation.

 
 
 
 

Never say good-bye, just see you next time!

Dana & The Team at Conley & Silvers

Conley & Silvers LLC
2700 Broadway # 7C, New York, NY 10025
ConleyandSilvers@gmail.com
www.ConleyandSilvers.com
+ 1 347 951 7948
Skype: DanaConley
CST#2107694-40

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