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How did you make this step to start InVespino?
After my six months in Bologna, I also wanted to spend the summer period in Italy. Then an opportunity came up to work as a Vespa Tourguide in Tuscany, which I couldn't turn down of course. As a result, I really got to know the region and I was able to build my network here. I did this for 2 summers and in 2020 on the Amalfi Coast. After 3 years I thought the time was right to start my own tours, with more focus on undiscovered Italy. Unique places that you would not visit as a tourist with unique places to stay.
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Sounds challenging, starting this in the middle of a pandemic. Wasn't this very risky?
Yes it certainly was, but it certainly gave opportunities. Many accommodations suffered from cancellations, so I could stay in unique villas and hotels for a great price. For this year the accommodations have been changed to stay in even more beautiful and unique places!
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What was your highlight of the first tours in 2021?
Actually the first week, after months at home planning to see it suddenly become real was very special. People actually came who booked my tour and thought it was an unforgettable experience. The first guests in Tuscany even came to the Amalfi Coast for a second tour at the end of the season!
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What is your personal favourite? Tuscany or Amalfi
Impossible to answer, both are very different with their own charms.
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Okay, in Tuscany, what's your favorite place there?
Surely the Chianti region, this feels so historic with the most beautiful views!
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I see slow tourism more often on your website, what do you mean by that?
I want to set up a company that opposes mass tourism. Big tour buses that sometimes stop somewhere for only 30 minutes I find really horrific. This is not how tourism is meant to be. During the tour we will also stop at less popular places, in those moments you will experience the most authentic conversations. I think this really benefits the way of travelling. In addition, I like to work with family businesses that really have a passion for what they do!
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Do you also live in Italy?
During the summer months I stay in the villas just like the guests, but not yet in the winters for the time being. Besides Italy and Vespas, I am also a huge lover of the mountains and snow, so I can be found in Switzerland in the winter.
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When you go on holiday yourself, where do you go?
I am honestly not a holidaymaker, my passion is really to be able to relieve other people on holiday. Last summer I went into the pool twice when it was really 40 degrees, I think that says enough. I especially enjoy when the guests enjoy the routes and the stops that I have devised. In addition, I am constantly discovering new places, when I am not with guests.
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Sounds intensive, do you also have free time?
The days are indeed long, but who can say that he has been driving a Vespa through Italy all summer. In addition, I am really a social animal, I like meeting new people and getting to know the guests. I do want to know more than just the name and during an InVespino week guests really get to know each other. The first reunions are already being planned!
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What will be different in 2022 compared to 2021.
In 2022, 2 tours will take place simultaneously, both in Tuscany and Amalfi. Of course I can't split myself up, so an experienced tour guide will be added this summer! In addition, Tuscany will be shorter in terms of distances, I received feedback from the guests that the changeover day was really too long. So instead of 135 kilometers this will be 80 kilometers. Without having to make concessions for the beautiful days.