Blog

Italy specialist, worldwide travel expert

Italy specialist, worldwide travel expert

My Italian Family Roots.

Born to migrant parents from the picturesque village of Fagnano Castello in Calabria, Italy, my life has been shaped by the incredible journey my parents undertook to build a new future in Far North Queensland. They left behind the poverty of their homeland, driven by a determination to provide a better life for their family. This journey was not without its challenges, but their perseverance and hard work laid the foundation for our family’s success.

My parents began their new life working tirelessly on tobacco farms. The work was gruelling, but their commitment never wavered. Their resilience paid off as they gradually diversified into growing mangoes, lychees, and avocados. The lush landscapes of North Queensland provided the perfect environment for these crops, and through their efforts, they built a thriving agricultural enterprise.

Growing up in this environment was a unique experience that instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and family traditions. Our home was always filled with the vibrant sounds and smells of family gatherings. Cherished memories include sausage-making days and the annual ritual of passata day, where the entire family would come together to make jars of rich tomato sauce to last the year.

These traditions were more than just activities; they were a testament to our heritage and the love that bound our family together. They taught me the importance of preserving our cultural roots while embracing new opportunities. This blend of old and new, of heritage and innovation, is something I carry with me in my work as a travel expert, especially when creating authentic and immersive experiences for those wanting to visit Italy.

Love of Italy

With a deep love for my roots, I’ve visited Italy numerous times, connecting with family and immersing myself in the beauty of Italy.  With my hosted tours to Italy allow others to experience the rich culture and history I holds dear.

My hosted tours to Italy are meticulously crafted to offer an immersive experience that goes beyond just historical insights. While the rich history of Italy is a cornerstone of your tours, you also emphasize the vibrant lifestyle, allowing travellers to truly live and breathe the Italian way of life.

Historical Insights

  1. Guided Visits to Historical Sites:
  2. Museum Tours:
  3. Architectural Wonders

Lifestyle Experiences

  1. Culinary Adventures
  2. Local Markets and Festivals
  3. Daily Italian Life
  4. Personal Stories and Traditions
  5. Interactive Workshops:

Unique Itineraries

  1. Customized Routes
  2. Flexible Schedules
  3. Exclusive Access

By blending historical insights with vibrant lifestyle experiences, my hosted tours offer a holistic and enriching journey through Italy. Travellers not only learn about the country’s past but also connect deeply with its present, creating lasting memories and a genuine appreciation for the Italian way of life.

Tailored Itineraries Just for You:

Italy is a country of diverse experiences, from the art-filled streets of Florence to the sun-soaked beaches of the Amalfi Coast. I begin by understanding your interests and preferences, whether you’re passionate about history, cuisine, or scenic landscapes. With this insight, I craft a customized itinerary that highlights the best of Italy according to your tastes. Imagine wandering through Rome’s ancient ruins, savouring a cooking class in Tuscany, or cruising through the serene canals of Venice—each experience is chosen with you in mind.

Insider Knowledge and Local Expertise:

Having spent years traveling throughout Italy and hosting tours, I bring a wealth of insider knowledge to the table. My deep connection to the country and its culture allows me to recommend authentic experiences that go beyond the guidebooks. From hidden gems in local neighbourhoods to exclusive tours and events, I ensure that you experience Italy like a true insider. My personal heritage and frequent visits to my family’s village in Calabria further enrich your trip with authentic cultural touches.

Seamless Planning and Execution:

Planning a trip to Italy involves numerous details, from booking flights and accommodations to organizing transportation and activities. My personalized service takes the stress out of travel planning by handling all these aspects for you. I work with a network of trusted partners to ensure that every detail of your journey is meticulously arranged, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without the hassle of logistical concerns.

Flexibility and Ongoing Support:

Travel plans can change, and having a flexible, responsive travel expert is crucial. I offer continuous support throughout your journey, ready to adjust plans or aid whenever needed. Whether you want to tweak your itinerary or need help with unexpected changes, I’m here to ensure your travel experience remains smooth and enjoyable.

Creating Unforgettable Memories:

The essence of travel lies in creating memories that last a lifetime. My commitment to personalized service means that every aspect of your Italian holiday is designed to be memorable. From arranging special experiences like private tours of art galleries to recommending the best local eateries for an authentic meal, I strive to make your journey filled with moments that you will cherish forever.

When you choose to book your holiday to Italy with me, you’re not just selecting a travel service—you’re choosing a partner dedicated to crafting a personalized and unforgettable experience. With tailored itineraries, insider knowledge, seamless planning, and unwavering support, I ensure that your trip to Italy is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. Let’s work together to create a journey through Italy that is as unique as you are.

Beyond Italy

While Italy is my specialty, my passion for travel extends to every corner of the globe. Whether you’re looking for group tours, cruises, river cruises, luxury holidays, relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous trek, or an immersive cultural experience, I have the expertise to plan your perfect holiday.

  • Europe: Wander through the romantic streets of Paris, explore the rugged landscapes of Scotland, or bask in the sun on the Greek islands.
  • Asia: Discover the vibrant markets of Bangkok, the ancient temples of Kyoto, and the diverse cultures of India.
  • The Americas: From the natural wonders of Canada and the USA to the vibrant cultures of Latin America, there’s so much to explore.
  • Africa: Go on a thrilling safari in Kenya, explore the historical wonders of Egypt, or relax on the pristine beaches of Mauritius.
     

Crafting Your Perfect Holiday

Creating the perfect holiday starts with understanding your unique travel desires. Here’s how we can embark on this journey together:

  • Initial Consultation: We’ll begin with a detailed discussion about your travel aspirations, preferences, and budget.
  • Custom Itinerary Design: Based on our conversation, I’ll craft a personalised itinerary that includes everything from accommodations and transportation to activities and dining.
  • Booking and Coordination: I handle all the bookings and logistics, ensuring that every aspect of your trip runs smoothly. 
  • Continuous Support: From the moment you depart until you return home, I’m available to assist with any needs or changes that may arise.

Personal Touch

My approach to travel planning is deeply personal. I believe that every journey should be as unique as the traveller embarking on it. I take the time to get to know my clients, understanding their passions, interests, and travel dreams. This personal connection allows me to create tailor-made experiences that are not just trips but unforgettable adventures.

Your Next Adventure Starts Here

Traveling is about more than just visiting new places; it’s about creating lasting memories and experiencing the world in a way that enriches your life. With my expertise and passion for travel, I am here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your holiday is everything you imagined and more.

Let’s start planning your next adventure today. Whether you’re dreaming of an Italian getaway or exploring another exciting destination, I am ready to help you make it a reality. The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered—let’s explore them together.

Ready to Book Your Holiday to Italy or Any Other Destination?

If you’re ready to experience the beauty of Italy or explore other amazing destinations around the world, I’m here to help! Whether it’s a cultural tour through Italy, an adventure in Africa, a scenic cruise, or an independent travel plan, I’ve got you covered.

 

If you’re ready to book your holiday, feel free to contact me! I specialize in creating unforgettable travel experiences, especially to Italy, but also offer trips to various destinations around the world. Let’s make your dream vacation a reality!

Patty

0427 786 500

[email protected]

Patty Poutanen
Location
Based in Redlynch, QLD
Trading Hours
Business hours: 9.00am - 5.00pm Monday to Friday (with flexibility for urgent travel)

Make an enquiry




Subscribe to my e-newsletter for the latest travel offers:



My memberships, accreditations and accolades

Italian National Tourism Board - Travel to Italy Specialist

JNTO Japan Travel Specialist | Tourism Fiji - Matai Fiji Travel Expert

100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Bronze | Tourism Australia - Aussie Specialist Agent

Singapore Tourism Board - Singapore Travel Specialist

Member of Cairns Chambers of Commerce

TravelManagers - 2019 Winner NITA Best Mobile Travel Advisor Network (AFTA’s National Travel Industry Awards)

TravelManagers - 2019 Winner of Best Home Based Agency of the Year at The Travel Awards

Executive Committee Member for the Cairns Italian Festival Inc. and Entertainment Coordinator - 2024 - 2025

Certificate 3 in Tourism

Peace of Mind Peace of mind