Umbria is a land rich in spectacular scenery, rolling hills, cultural treasures and historic landmarks. Bordering Tuscany to the south, Umbria is similar in nature, topography and culture yet relatively undiscovered. Join Wimco's traveling team on their fact-finding mission through the Italian countryside - a learning experience they will never forget.
The adventure began once the Team reached Rome. With the sun quickly descending behind Italy’s rolling hills, the Team packed into the rental car and proceeded to Mercatale to find their villa, Salicotta. Advised that the drive was little over an hour, they soon realized an Italian must have estimated the time. Four hours later, with Fiats and Renaults whizzing by as if they were standing still, the Team was still en route. An approach from Florence would have been only a two hour drive, they later learned. Upon reaching the village of Mercatale, the trio had to find the villa. Even with accurate directions in hand, this, too, proved to be challenging. Navigating by landmarks like the "cypress tree between two oak trees" and the "goat farm at the end of the village" were just one of the challenges of finding their way; driving through in the dark was even more interesting. Once they reached villa Salicotta, the group received a warm welcome from the villa’s owners, Aldo and Alda, who served as "key-holders" for that night. Villa caretakers, who are called key-holders, greet you upon arrival and orient you to your surroundings.
Bethany, Lidy, and Matt
