You can find some of our older comments below, dating back to 1996
The balloon flight was amazing, absolutely brilliant! Chris Monk, our pilot was excellent—extremely professional and knowledgeable, but fun too. His team did an excellent job and the picnic on landing was great. We would recommend this to anyone. A truly memorable morning for us both.
Please pass on our thanks to Chris and his team for a great and very professional job, and wish them all the best for the rest of the season.
Rick and Kay, May 2011
Dave and I want to thank you so much for providing us with such an amazing experience. It was wonderful to meet you and Liz, and learn so much about Italy, and particularly Tuscany. You were so helpful in arranging transportation and accommodations in Montisi. Thank you for providing us with memories that will last a lifetime.
Dave and Amy Konop, September 2010
Thanks again for everything! It was a wonderful experience for us and we will highly recommend you to anyone headed to Italy.
Michelle and Chris, September 2010
Thank you again for an amazing experience. I didn’t want to leave that beautiful balloon or for the flight to end. And breakfast was, of course, delicious. Nothing like the smell of Pecorino on the fingertips first thing in the morning!
David, September 2010
We were both saying the exactly same thing: how lovely it was to meet you all. Thank you for a wonderful morning, one we are sure we’ll never forget. If any friends or family ever visit Tuscany, I’ll be sure to put them in contact with you. Thank you so much again.
Charlotte and Nick, August 2010
We just wanted to thank you for another great balloon ride drifting over the Tuscan landscape. It was great to see you again and thanks for the kind hospitality. I hope all goes well with your business and we hope to fly with you again next time we are in Tuscany.
Andy, Norma and Beatrice, August 2010
Thanks so much for the ride today. We had a wonderful time and it made anniversary 43 quite special. When I return, I will send you the photos.
Les and Marilyn, August 2010
Thank you so much for sharing such a fabulous experience with us. Bruce and I really enjoyed meeting you last week and loved the morning shared with you. Our adventure continued, and yes we did see the press coverage of Il Pallio while sitting in a very beautiful tea house in Montepulciano. We drove north via a lovely lunch and dip in Lake Garda to Alpe di Siusi with two days great hiking before tackling Il Passo di Selvio for a relax in the Bagni Vecchi in Bormio. We arrived home at the weekend having enjoyed a fabulous trip. Thank you most sincerely for your part in our journey.
Lorraine and Bruce, August 2010
At the end of our morning in the balloon, your wife very kindly gave me one of her books, about a fox lost in the big city and then in the forest, which I then read innumerable times to my twin grandchildren. They took it with them when they returned to Los Angeles. We all loved it, as did my older grandchildren from Toulouse. Please convey our thanks to her, and I hope her exhibition in London was successful. We had a wonderful time in Tuscany and La Foce and the balloon trip was definitely one of the highlights. Thank you so much!
Ulla Schneider, July 2010
I love your paintings! I especially love the blue colors and the degree of light in so many of them. I’m the mom who came with her husband, Bill, and our children from Florida. You should see our living room wall: we have beautiful enlargements of our hot air balloon flight hanging for us to enjoy and re-live every day! Your husband is in the basket, I’m standing on the ground, and the rest of my family is beaming! We have that one which you took and others on display. They’re quite large! The children are still talking about the wonderful experience we had. I even have a photo of the lovely breakfast tray you prepared for us. It’s hanging in my kitchen!
Jeanni, William, Erika, Carson and Anne, June 2009
Thanks again for a wonderful, wonderful time!!
Peter, Terry and Stephanie, October 2009
We had such a wonderful time getting to know you both while on the balloon ride. Excellent job and excellent service. You went way over the top to show us a wonderful time. THANK YOU!
Etta and Kristi, September 2009
Thank you for the awesome balloon ride you took us on. It was truly the ride of a lifetime that Jen and I (ya know, that electric car guy) will never forget. I cannot thank you enough for your hospitality and overall good humor :-). I hope you enjoyed our company as much as we enjoyed yours. I can say without a doubt that this was a the highlight of our honeymoon. We will never forget the good time we had up in the air, nor shall we forget the dinner night before at La Romita with the great food from Chef Alberto as well as my first adventure with grappa! If we ever make it back to Italy/Montisi we will definitely schedule another balloon ride with you guys, it was a blast.
Adam and Jen, September 2009
I received a text message from the Flannerys this morning. In a word…they said it was AWESOME. Thank you for giving them a wonderful experience, and I look forward to sending more clients to you.
Rosanne Cofoid, September 2009
I just wanted to let you know that I posted a review on TripAdvisor.com. Even though it has been 3 years since we flew with you, the trip remains fresh in our memory as it was such a magnificent time.
Eric Carlino, September 2009
Just a short note to thank you for the balloon ride. We really enjoyed the whole experience and were very impressed with your organisation and flying capabilities and hope to return again sometime in the future for a repeat performance. We also enjoyed your low-level fly past a few days later!
Andy, Norma and Beatrice, August 2009
Thank you, Robert, for your last-minute scrambling to get us our flight with Kjell. We are sorry we didn’t have a chance to say goodbye and thank you in person. We loved every minute of our flight—how magical and beautiful! Kjell was very entertaining (especially when he discovered we are Canadian!) during the flight but perhaps even more so after the flight as he educated Chris and Sean on the fine art of hunting women! It was a wonderful, wonderful experience. Thank you. We have given your name and Kjell’s to our hotel to recommend to their guests. Cheers.
Mary Beth, John, Chris, and Sean, August 2009
Ciao Robert, sono Matteo, eccezionale alba!! Bellissimo volo, nel silenzio della natura…abbiamo visto tutto da un’altra angolazione…con un’atterraggio stupendo e mozzafiato fra un melo e due olivi, senza assolutamente sfiorarli, ad un passo dalla splendida Pienza. Veramente fantastico…La natura è bella di per sè. Vista dalla mongolfiera tutto diventa stupendo. Saluti.
Matteo e Giulia, agosto 2009
We can honestly say that our early morning balloon flight over Tuscany was definitely the highlight of our 3 week honeymoon in Italy. It surpassed all our expectations as it was much more than just a balloon ride. From the hospitality on arrival, the fantastic champagne breakfast on landing (which was beautifully smooth just to add!), the stop off for ice-cream on the way home to the flight certificate presented on arriving back. We were overwhelmed by the whole experience! We were recommended by friends of ours (who have already flown with you twice!) and we will certainly go on to recommend yourselves to all our friends & family. Thank you again very much for making our honeymoon so memorable.
Matt and Emma Yard, July 2010
Robert, please give Liz our best. I still remember fondly spending the day with both of you and your friends after our magical balloon flight. Every time I think of your tales of Brico, I have a good hearty chuckle. Italy keeps calling us, so we hope to return soon. When we do, you will be on our must visit list!
Renee and Greg Domeier, July 2009
Bruce, I and the kids wanted to thank you for the wonderful time we had in Montisi. We have visited many countries, but this was our most memorable experience ever! The trip was FABULOUS! Thank you for making our trip so fantastic.
Bruce, Vandana, Natassia, and Kieran, May 2009
The Case family had a wonderful time with you and Liz today! The entire event—flight, scenery, and commentary you provided pointing out the sites—was an incredible experience, so much so that our trip with you was one of the few times in life when reality exceeded expectations. We look forward to being able to float above Tuscany again on our next visit. Ciao.
Greg and Jennifer Case, June 2009
I so enjoyed the flight on June 1 with Chris as the pilot, and going for gelato and coffee on our way back to your house. The flight, my stay at La Romita, and visiting Montisi are cherished highlights of my month in Italy.
Lynne Geddes, June 2010
Sono Luca ed anche se in ritardo ti volevo ringraziare per la splendida giornata che abbiamo passato insieme a te. Splendida e divertente con atterraggio tra le spighe di grano con un appena un pó di fango…! Grazie di nuovo ed a presto.
Luca e Stefania, giugno 2009
Just thought I would drop you a line on behalf of Debs and myself as way of a thank you for a spectacular and forever-memorable balloon flight over the Tuscan countryside. As a honeymoon treat for my bride, it could not be topped. We had an absolutely fantastic time and Kjell was a brilliant and confidence inspiring pilot. Seeing Siena from several hundred feet above in the morning mist is a sight we’ll treasure for the rest of our lives. We’d recommend the experience and you guys to anyone.
Tim Smith, June 2009
We are finally all caught up and back to normal after returning from our vacation. We want to thank you and Liz for the experience of a lifetime. If asked to put into words the enjoyment and thrill we got soaring over Tuscany with you, it would be “WOW, FANTASTIC,WONDERFUL, DELIGHTFUL, SUPER, THRILLING!!!” Both Liz and yourself made it a most memorable experience with your hospitality and knowledge of the area. We had a lovely time exploring Montisi and the surrounding area and the Locanda was a lovely hotel. Roberta could not do enough for us. When friends ask about our trip, the first thing we tell them about is our ballooning experience. We all want to thank both you and Liz for the wonderful, thrilling time we had and we will definitely recommend you to anyone who is going to Tuscany! Thank you.
Ken and Deb Sigg, May 2009
I know that Ken wrote you, but he didn’t ask me what I wanted to say, so here goes…I thought that our day was the most special day I have ever had. I just loved the flight and your special narrative, but most of all I really appreciated your excellent company and all the time you both spent with us. We never felt rushed or that we were just a pay check for you. I didn’t expect to spend all that time with the both of you; you made us feel like we were very special friends. It’s not many people who can do that in such a short time. Being invited to your home was indeed an honor and we Thank You very much for an exciting time. Please let Liz know that I have located a copy of “One Muddy Puddle”and I am getting it for our Grandchildren’s book collection, with a picture of Liz and all of us together. Thank you very much and I hope to see you again in the future.
Deb Sigg, May 2009
Thank you so much for a wonderful time. Your hospitality and the flight were both amazing. It is always so refreshing to see people living interesting lives that they enjoy. Best of luck in the future.
Dave and Karen Giar, May 2009
I just wanted to say that was a great experience up in the balloon: truly great. Can’t remember how to spell the Swedish guy’s name but he and his girlfriend took good care of us. I may just need new pair of trainers after landing in the field…
Kevin and Angelique, May 2009
Just a note to say thank you. We had a blast. This was certainly one of the highlights of our trip to Italy. The balloon ride was a lot more fun at 3,000 feet than the plane ride was at 30,000 feet.
Matt and Michelle, May 2009
That was simply awesome, but slightly boring!
Kieran, age 6, May 2009
I just wanted to thank you again for our balloon flight. We absolutely, thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and will recommend it to anyone who will listen. I posted a story about it on my blog.
Gary and Debbie Arnold, April 2009
Just to say thank you for the wonderful ballooning experience. It was more than we expected and we won’t forget your hospitality. Breakfast a treat, the views and ride amazing, what more can I say!
Jenny and Geoff, August 2008
I am sending y’all a postcard from the basket of a hot air balloon, floating over the hills of Tuscany. You just have to see this to believe it. It has been a once in a lifetime experience…just let me tell you. Read this SlowTravel review!
Bugalu from Alabama, Spring 2008
I’ve been thinking that if you criss-cross 2 Band-Aids inside your cap, it just may stop the rivet from burning your head! Thanks again for the 2nd biggest thrill of my life.
Rich and Barbara, celebrating 25 years of marriage, September 2008
Thanks again for a really good day. Hayley and I both agree that is one of the best days we’ve ever had. The ballooning was great, and then afterwards we really enjoyed having a few beers with you both, meeting your friends and getting a genuine snippet of how people live in Toscana. I think the last time I drank champagne at 9 o’clock in the morning was on my 21st birthday! We managed to get back to the villa ok, and then stayed up drinking till 2 in the morning. Felt rough the next day but it was well worth it!
Anthony and Hayley, September 2008
I just wanted to drop you a line to thank you for the wonderful experience we had with you and your balloon. You and Liz looked after us all so well that we were tempted to have another flight. Maybe next time. Once again thank you so much. I look forward to my next flight.
Bernie Carolan, August 2008
We are now back home and have been sharing our trip with our family and friends and on reflection one of our highlights was our hot air balloon ride with you. Thank you once again for making Lisa’s 40th Birthday one to remember. Our day was unforgettable and your hospitality exceeded our expectations. Thanks again to you and Liz for sharing your piece of paradise with us and your knowledge of Tuscany.
Karen and Lisa Rowntree, July 2008
I have told so many people of the balloon. And my sense that it is THE best analogy for how to live life properly…you equip yourself with brain and energy (gas and balloon without too many holes), have a rough plan (phone and Land Rover), then take off and watch what happens! You haven’t a clue where you’re going, what’s going to happen while you’re getting there (where?), and no idea if you will actually get there (where??!). But you’d better enjoy the trip! Brilliant. A bit like amateur chamber music really.
Roger Chase and Yukiko, July 2008
Just wanted to write a big thank you to you and your family on behalf of me and my parents! We had a wonderful time in Tuscany and thanks to you and your ballooning crew my mom got a 50th birthday present she will remember for the rest of her life. She has wanted to try hot air balloon for a very long time and you made it happen. Best wishes to you and your ballooning business—hope you continue to make dreams come true!
Andreas, Ulf and Rose-Marie Soderstrom, August 2008
Sharon D’Onofrio and I had the pleasure of ballooning with you in 2005 and would love to have others enjoy the experience. (I was the one who would not consider going up until seconds before lift-off and found it to be one of the best experiences of my life!)
Kathleen Horrigan, August 2008
It’s been a couple of weeks since we came back from Italy. I simply wanted to say a huge thank you to you both for such a wonderful experience. Yes, it was an early start for us, but you made us so welcome, your piloting was first class and the experience was just as good when we landed and then on to the cafe. I know that you are running a business, but never at any point did we feel this. It felt like we had known you for years and that is a skill that few people/couples possess. Very best wishes.
Andy, Jane and the silent kids! July 2008
Thank you for being such wonderful hosts. My family, especially Mom, Dad, and Jessica, had a breath-taking time. We just got done looking at the pictures we took from the ground and they took from the balloon. WOW! I am so glad we found you. Of course my big mouth will do wonders for your business. I will be telling anyone I know going to Italy, to look you up. Thanks again for such a memorable experience. p.s. Dad says maybe next time you can put it down on the road…!
Toni Podesta, June 2008
I am safely back in not-so-sunny Australia. Thank you very much for the balloon experience. It was certainly a highlight of my Italian Adventure. And we loved your commentary about the who’s who around the region.
Peter Doodt, June 2008
Google tells us that today [June 4] is some sort of special ballooning day. I am sure you are celebrating with great wine, coffee, and conversation (as you do every day!). I hope to return to Tuscany some day to again enjoy the best experience in Italy! Read more from Carolyn here!
Carolyn Bishop-McLeod, February 2008
Words can’t really express what a magnificent experience this was! We were a little scared at first because we have never done this before. Robert makes you feel very comfortable and it is such a pleasant soft lift up into the air. It was perfect. This is something everyone should experience if given the chance! Thank you so much for your hospitality. I hope we can visit again sometime.
Donna and Alyssa, September 2007
Our time in Italy was just fantastic! But truly you two were the highlight! We can’t tell you how much we enjoyed our moments with you at the restaurants, etc. We found some great cheeses to bring home, as well as some authentic balsamic, which we were able to discern due to your guidance. We look forward to our next trip back, and will probably focus on the southern part of Italy, but will no doubt want to see you again as well. Thank you so much for your warmth, humor, information, and making us part of your family!
Michael and Ann Mather, February 2008
Back home in a very chilly Aberdeenshire, it is hard to believe that only a few days ago we were floating above Tuscany in your wonderful balloon. Thank you both so much for one of the best experiences of our 40-year-old lives. The photos are fabulous, but the memories are even better—sparkling. When I think about it, I can still feel the same heady mixture of euphoria and terror that I had on Saturday. The Butchers and ourselves have our “top picnic moments”, and, despite the absence of the mini-Butchers, Saturday breakfast has just shot to number 1! Your efforts really gave Sue the 40th birthday experience she so very much deserves, and it was a huge pleasure to share her balloon trip with her. You are really wonderful hosts and the website really doesn’t do justice to the magical experience that you offer.
Jane and Tim Summers, Sue and Gary Butchers, March 2008
We are safely back in the U.S. and wanted to touch base to thank you and Liz again for the wonderful time we had on our most memorable hot air ballooning experience. It was most definitely the “high” light of our trip. It was the first time ballooning for Dan and Lin, and they were in awe the entire time. Perhaps Lin was a little nervous at first, but those fears quickly disappeared with your skill, and, most importantly, your sense of humor! It was nice talking with you and Liz and getting to know you a little bit. Hopefully, our travels will take us back to Tuscany, where we will contact you once again for an incredible hot air balloon flight.
Carol, Thom, Dan and Lin, October 2007
I wanted to send you a thank you note for the lovely day Steve and I had with you. We loved the balloon ride day, but even more we enjoyed the whole experience. We loved hearing all the stories about the local people and feeling so welcomed and relaxed in a world so different from the one we live in. The whole event was so much more than we expected.
Sherry and Steve Wissel, September 2007
Thank you so much for the great experience. It was absolutely perfect (score 10 out of 10!).
Annette Davis and friends, September 2007
Thank you so much for a fantastic time. The balloon ride is going to be what I think about when remembering my (first) trip to Tuscany. And, thank you for you hospitality afterwards; it still warms my heart thinking about how you all took the time to talk to me and even invite me to you home at any time during my stay. I hope to be able to repay your kindness someday when you come to Denmark. I would love to show you around…not in a balloon though…unless you bring your own.
“Coffee and a Danish”–Aka and Mette, July 2007
I just wanted to let you know that we had a FABULOUS time ballooning with you. In fact, it’s one of the top highlights of our trip…and the spontaneous “party” at Malcom’s will never be forgotten. We just got home a few days ago and have now caught up on our sleep and seem to be getting back to normal. Thank you, again, for a wonderful experience…and I’m not just talking about the flight. You and Liz are delightful…you both excel at creating magic moments. The best to you both.
Julie Westenskow, July 2007
Thank you for a wonderful balloon ride. Dave thoroughly enjoyed his birthday present! We also took advantage of a number of the recommendations you gave to us. They were all great, but one of the best and most memorable meals we had in Italy was at Acquachetta in Montepulciano. Thank you SO much for that suggestion!
Ellen Sowala, June 2007
First, thank you so much for making last-minute overnight accommodations for us at La Moscadella, in the middle of a holiday weekend, no less! It was extraordinary, and one of the best days of our entire trip. Your home is right out of a storybook, and your hospitality was so personal, welcoming, and genuine that it made the entire ballooning experience twice as wonderful. How lucky were we that Luigi was kind enough to bring his tractor up to our landing point, and make a road for the truck, so that we could pack up the balloon and head out for coffee and gelato? Well, we could go on and on (and to everyone who will listen, we have!!) about this, so we’ll keep it short. Just know that we’ll be back!
Nick and Tara Jensen, April 2007
Many thanks to you and your wife for a fantastic morning on my birthday. I hope my friends enjoy it as much as I did when they come on Friday.
Diane Dixon, April 2007
It has been a few weeks since our balloon trip with you and I just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed it and the rest of the day that we spent with you. It was a wonderful way to end our trip to Tuscany! We took lots of photos, but they just don’t do justice to the real beauty of Tuscany, I would highly recommend you to anyone who is looking for a balloon trip! I am sure we will be back again and look forward to another trip with you.
Diane Dunn, October 2006
Thank you so much for taking us up in your beautiful balloon. It was one of the most amazing and memorable experiences of my life. Mike, Tessa, Julia, Andrew, and Ben all said it was the absolute highlight of their weekend and something they will never forget. You both made the day so much fun and very special for us, and breakfast was just perfect. Now I have had an Italian feast washed down with buckets of Prosecco and wine in a field in glorious Tuscany after a blissful balloon ride, my morning Cheerios in London don’t really come up to scratch. I must confess that I have been terrified of heights all my life, but I didn’t feel even a moment of fear. The whole experience was so peaceful and magical, and thinking about the baffled look on the motorists’ faces as we drifted serenely along the road makes me laugh every time!. Thank you so much for a fabulous time. If (when) we return to the area, we will definitely get in touch as I would love to do it all again.
Fern Dickson, September 2006
Thanks again for everything you do for our tour groups! The ballooning is always an amazing experience, and your hospitality is terrific. We really appreciate it.
Gail and John Hecko, Summer 2006
It now seems a lifetime away from our wonderful day with you ballooning over Tuscany. It was a memorable experience in itself, but made even more so by your wonderful hospitality, encyclopedic knowledge of the area, and great company. I have passed your details to our travel agent so hopefully we won’t be the only Australians to have travelled in your balloon.
Bruce and Susan McDougall, June 2006
We wanted to drop you a line to say thank you for a wonderful flight. We enjoyed every minute of it. It was truly amazing. We have been looking at the photos and reliving the whole experience. It was really fabulous to be flying over countryside that we knew well from ground level, and you were so interesting and informative about historical aspects and also about gossipy things as well. The flight will probably be our highlight of 2006! And to think you do this every day (weather permitting). What a great occupation!
Belinda and Steve Wilson, July 2006
I want to thank you for the fabulous time you provided us on our balloon ride. We all agree that it was the highlight of our trip, and not just the ride, which was amazing and beautiful, but the experience at Azienda Spereta, the pastry shop, and getting to meet Justin and his friends will be something we’ll never forget. Remember our names because we’ll be sending friends your way! Thank you again for making our trip to Tuscany so special.
Cindy Canaday, Destin, Florida, July 2006
I wanted to write you a quick note and thank you for the highlight of our trip. I’ve been thoroughly depressed since my return and hope to be living the Italian dream permanently within 6 years.
Eric Carlino, Chicago, Illinois, July 2006
Thank you so much for a wonderful experience in our balloon ride over the town of Montefollonico! This was something I’ve wanted to do for years and my wife has been skeptical just as long. The comfort you both brought to the experience, starting with the tea, and introduction of your dog and cats, was a great start to an unexplainable journey over the hills of Tuscany! The entire flight was extremely enjoyable, comfortable, breathtaking, and unforgettable. I have some fantastic pictures to share with my friends and memories that will last my wife and I a lifetime.
Jeff Troian, May 2006
We are re-arranging our travel schedule because we truly feel the hot air balloon ride will be the highlight of our trip and we all agreed that we have such a good feeling about you and your business that we did not want to miss the opportunity to go on the ride. There are two “must-do” things on our trip: one is to go to the Vatican in Rome and the other is your hot air balloon trip. So, you are ranked right up there with the Pope. High praise, indeed!
Patti Schiebel, flying in June 2006
We arrived back in Cape Town this morning and are off to lunch now with some friends to tell them all about our lovely morning with you. You both really went out of your way to make it a special day for us and it was most definitely the highlight of our Tuscany/Umbria trip. We thoroughly enjoyed your company and it was great to meet Martin and Fiona as well. What can we say…the balloon experience was spectacular, the food was bellissimo, the wine and fizz very lekka (what we say in South Africa for wonderful), your hospitality the finest, and the stories and views will stay with us forever. Please remember to visit us whenever you come this way. It will be our pleasure to show you a bit of our beautiful Cape Town.
Deidre, William, and Bess, April 2006
We want to say THANKS for the best memory of our trip. We’ve told EVERYONE about you and will definitely continue to do so. We’ll keep the mud on our shoes after landing our secret though.
Jan Terry, Karen Terry and Tracy Thomas, passengers on March 29, 2006
The balloon trip was a real highlight of our time in Italy. Can you believe we had such a perfect day on October 18 and then it was so nasty the very next day? I believe the gods were with us!! Thanks to you and Liz for a wonderful adventure.
Margaret & Coy Harris, October 2005
Gerald and I arrived back in the States just two days ago but we are still talking about our absolutely amazing day we had with you all last week. From the moment we arrived at your place, we were so impressed by your warm hospitality and such gracious company. The balloon flight itself was stunning! Rising over the haze of the Tuscan countryside and into the rolling green patchwork of the landscape was an experience we will never forget. Our pictures are priceless and so are our memories of the unforgettable day we spent with you. Thank you both so much for the wonderful company and lively conversation.
Alison Osterberg, October 2005
Thank you both for the wonderful experience we had with you during our stay in Bella Toscana. It was an adventure right from the start when we helped fill the balloon under your expert instructions, jumped into the basket, and first felt the wonderful feeling of weightlessness as we lifted gently off the ground. We were so impressed with the way you were able to take us down into little gullies to look for wildlife and almost touch the tops of the trees. It was fun to be skimming over the wheat fields nearly at ground level one moment, then with a blast from the gas burners we would be soaring high over Tuscany again the next moment to get a total view of this beautiful area. Hot air ballooning is certainly one of the most exciting, relaxing, and enjoyable things to do. It was fun hearing you both keeping in touch by walkie-talkie as we sailed along and, of course, Liz, the whole thing was topped off by the delicious champagne breakfast out in the middle of our landing field. (I was very impressed that the glasses were chilled!). It was an experience we will never forget!
Sue & Meagan Long, June 2005
Was that a rough landing or were we shot down?!
Birni & Glenn Tkachuk, October 2005
Just a quick note to thank you and your wife for a FANTASTIC experience. The balloon ride was the absolute highlight of our honeymoon. The whole adventure was magical. The team that you and your wife make is unique and special. Thank you for the great time!
Rich & Shuang Frick, September 2005
On the last night of our honeymoon, in hot, touristy Rome, we began to talk about our “moments of the honeymoon” — the best, worst, funniest, etc. We’d hardly started on the “best” when we both agreed that we would have to leave the morning we spent in your company out of the equation. This was because it was so plainly the absolute highlight of the honeymoon, beyond anything else we did, despite plenty of other lovely Italian experiences, that it would be too easy an answer to the question!
Your web site resounds with similar words of praise. Yes, the flight was fantastic. We anticipated going up a couple of thousand feet and staying there — you took us up, then down, then up, then down, then up, then down! We anticipated a few sights being pointed out by yourself — but you told us a story behind every building! (We particularly enjoyed hearing about Swiss dinner parties and swimming pool antics after a few too many glasses/bottles of wine!) We anticipated a drive from the landing site straight back to base and goodbye — but you took us for coffee in Buonconvento and showed us some local sights! We are extremely grateful to your, Liz, and Danny for such an amazing experience and we’ll be sure to recommend it to any of our friends who may ever venture that way.
Andy & Anne Taylor, August 2005
Our August flight with you was the highlight of our honeymoon and made for a magical last day of our lovely trip. We enjoyed the day so very much, and especially the pleasure of your company. Your knowledge, good humor, and wit kept us wide awake at the break of dawn. Hope to see you again soon at the “clubhouse”.
Chris & Heather Halabu, August 2005
Die Ballonfahrt mit Robert war einfach einzigartig. Meine Frau Monika und unsere beiden Töchter Laura und Greta werden diesen Tag nicht so schnell vergessen…vor allem nicht das fühe Aufstehen um Viertel-vor-Fünf (J) Die Aussicht vom Heißluftballon über die herrlichen, schön gepflegten Weiten der “colle senesi” sind ein Naturschauspiel, das man sonst wo in dieser Art nicht findet. Man merkt sofort, dass Robert, seine Frau Liz (die mit dem Jeep am Boden hinterherfährt, und zum Abschluß leckere Häppchen und Champagner serviert) Ihren Job lieben…eigentlich nicht schwer verständlich. Die Ballonfahrt ist in jedem Sinne ein Erlebnis der besonderen Art, das man sich einfach gönnen muß. Liebe Grüße and den Flugkapitän Robert & Team von Roland, Monika, Laura, Greta aus Marling b. Meran, Südtirol.
Juni 2005
Thank you so much for sharing with us the Ballooning In Tuscany experience! We had absolutely the best time with you — ballooning, meeting the farmers for breakfast, the market in Buonconvento, and the great company. We will always remember our time in Montisi, and very much hope to be able to return someday with our children (and balloon again!). The rest of our trip was fun (Firenze and Roma), but Montisi was the best.
Chris & Ria Morse, Charlotte, VT, July 2005
We just got home from 14 wonderful days in Tuscany. My only regret is that we did the balloon ride on the second day of our 2005 summer vacation. Having done Tuscany adrift in the winds of the early morning in a beautiful Tuscan sky, Linda, Don, Carole, and I spent the next 12 days chasing an experience to equal that morning. We had a fantastic two weeks, but nothing compared to the ride, the champagne breakfast when we landed, and the hospitality that you and Liz provided the rest of the day. It was truly the highlight of the best vacation we ever had.
Neil & Linda Allen, Easton, PA; Don & Carole Mertz, Coatsville, PA, July 2005
We wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed the whole experience. Much as we have always loved our visits to Tuscany, this was definitely the highlight of the whole lot. Apart from the flight itself, and the amazing views, etc., it was the personal touch which made it outstanding, not to mention the breakfast, and the visit to Pienza. It felt like having a day out with friends. The surprise visit to the farm at Mezzoquarto was a real bonus! I know you didn’t arrange that, but still…We will definitely try to make another trip next time we come to Tuscany.
Roger & Kathy Beale, May 2005
I’ve finally returned home after the rest of my time in Italy, Greece, and 5 days in Prague. Even after experiencing Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini, our flight with you was the high point of our trip! One of the most amazing parts of it was my COMPLETE lack of anxiety, mostly due to your demeanor. And, believe it or not, helping to hold the balloon open while it inflated, and folding it up afterwards made the whole experience even more special. I will never forget it. Thanks again, and please give my regards to Liz!
Paul de Pass, April 2005
Thank you profusely for the amazing day you gave us on our honeymoon on September 1st. It was a truly out-of-this-world experience, a total (very pleasant) surprise for Jo and the highlight of our honeymoon. The memories evoked will stay with us always.
Alec & Jo Price-Forbes, October 2004
Diane and Kim and I want to thank you for one of the most memorable days of our trip to Italy. The balloon ride was something that I have been wanting to do for years and I am glad that you were the captain of my first (and hopefully not the last) balloon flight. Our pictures are extraordinary and will provide us a lifetime memory of this wonderful day. We are framing the poster and will hang it in a place of honor in our home.
Bob & Diane Gimbel and Kim, August 2004
Ashort note to thank you for the balloon flight last week. This was spectacular in itself but your knowledge and passion for the area, and the breakfast and coffee, made it an experience and so much more than just a flight. It was something we will never forget. I will be strongly recommending you to anyone I know visiting Tuscany.
Alec Ramsey, July 2004
Thank you for our wonderful trip in your balloon; it really did make our holiday very special. I still cannot believe that we were so high up in such a small basket and yet not be concerned. You are obviously very good at keeping people calm and we had every confidence in your skills as pilot! It was a brilliant experience! If you ever have anyone who is thinking of doing it but is scared of heights, please feel free to refer them to me. If I can do it anyone can!
Hilary Arnot, June 2004
Now that we have safely returned to the “real world,” I felt compelled to write to you to express our sincere thanks for a wonderful morning. We had an absolutely fantastic time. It was truly the highlight of a great holiday, but undoubtedly one of life’s most memorable experiences for both of us. Your attention to detail, kindness, and hospitality made the whole experience even more memorable. Our thanks to both yourself and Liz as well as Danny, not just for transporting us safely in such a breathtaking way, but for actually managing to make us feel part of the whole event, rather than just “paying passengers.”
In the line of work that I’m in I have developed a huge respect for people who don’t “just do a job,” but do it with real passion, commitment, and energy. You do that Robert, and it’s infectious! That’s what made the whole experience so fantastic! The flight and the time spent with you and your people is something that we will recall with enthusiasm and recount until friends and family are bored to death!
Paul & Julie Adams, August 2003
We would like to again let you know what a spectacular adventure we had on our flight over Tuscany. On all of our travels, the two best adventures have been the mule trip down the Grand Canyon and our flight with you. The memory of that flight will last forever.
Your website is excellent in conveying the feel of what to expect. What it doesn’t convey is what a masterful pilot you are – you did things I didn’t think were possible. Our skimming just a foot or so over the wheat fields and then just over that small tree next to that road sign was pure skill. And it is obvious how much you love to fly.
Erik & Cynthia, June 2003
You both made the trip special with your warm hospitality and quick witted sense of humor. Africa ballooning can’t compare! We greatly appreciate all of your time and effort in making our trip a trip of a lifetime. All my dreams of Tuscany were fulfilled and more. We loved little Montisi and its surrounding villages. The people and the food were simply wonderful. La Romita was a special place for us. We loved being taken care of like royalty by Alberto and his family. Thanks for booking us in such a place where we felt so comfortable and so welcomed. As you said, Life is all about Attitude, and it was easy to adjust our attitude towards the superb lifestyle Montisi has to offer residents and visitors alike.
Anthony & Toni Barone, June 2003
Just wanted to say thank you again to you and your team for the wonderful balloon ride. We will definitely be doing more balloon rides, but this one will remain the definitive experience for us. Hope that the old mill is working out well and that by now you are both well settled in.
Howard Russell, September 2000
Now that we have returned from our vacation, I wanted to drop you a line to express our appreciation for our balloon tour of Tuscany. It was simply wonderful ! Since we have been home, we have frequently been asked what was the best part of our trip. Your balloon tour is always at the top of our list. We not only enjoyed the ride but also participating in inflation and rigging of the balloon, as well as your descriptions of the area we were viewing. Both of you were excellent hosts. Our balloon ride will be something we will remember forever.
Scott and Elizabeth Henson, Boise, Idaho 2000
The rest of our trip in Italy was wonderful, but we seem to reminisce of our day with you in Tuscany the most. A true adventure that we will carry with us for the rest of our lives. Thank you once again for your ballooning expertise and your outstanding hospitality as we celebrated a perfect landing with a late morning feast on the hill. Mary, Rod, Jona, and myself still can not think of a more perfect day.
Mark and Mary Lovci & Rod and Jona Penner 2000
Our balloon trip in May was the highlight of our two-week trip to Italy and Tuscany. Our deepest thanks to you and your charming wife for the experience, the champagne, the wonderful breakfast, and for the authentic Tuscan farmer, geese, sheep, dogs, donkeys, and even one curious and territorial bumblebee. May fair winds and cool, clear weather be yours everywhere.
B., R., L., and T.K. (Balloon Veterans of the Sienese Landscape) 2000
Thank you so much for such a wonderful balloon ride today! We all had a wonderful time, even those who were a little afraid of the whole experience loved it. The breakfast was great and the view was beyond words.
TE. Toronto 1999
Thank you for as wonderful and surprising a day as we could want. As the days in New York get grayer and colder, our memories go back to a most singular sunlit day in the far-off land of Italy.
JJ. New York 1999
Hi! It’s Spring again here. Something good, and last summer seems to come back easier when I took Summer Vacation in Italy. One of my best memories in Italy these photos enclosed here show. Thank you both of you. Wishing to see you again.
Sho-Chan. Tokyo 1999
Well, we have returned to Los Angeles and as we review where we have been and what we have seen, the Walking Trip with both of you was far and away the most exciting and memorable aspect of our trip to Italy. The land itself, the Etruscan walls, the small towns with no tourists, truffle hounds, the exceptional cordiality of the people we met all added up to an immense experience. And then there was the Lunch, and the sweet wine afterwards and the fruit floating in the bowl. Wow! Add in your wonderful running commentaries, the trip to the Mill and this walk was the crowning event of our entire trip, and C. and I thank you ever so much.
JA. California 1999
Having now returned to my office, and as the golden rays of the morning sun glinting off the bronzed wheat of the Tuscan fields remains a strong memory, I wanted to thank you for what was truly one of the greatest mornings of my life.
CR. Connecticut 1997
We did enjoy our flight and the delicious breakfast sur l’herbe. A lovely, lovely day.
BC. UK 1994
We have been back in Australia now for a week, and finally the photographs have been processed. I enclose a few of the sculpture work of your friend.Not exceptional I am afraid. Many of the others taken from the balloon are fabulous. It truly was a most exciting day. We all enjoyed being with you and Liz.
ER. Australia 1998
Le giornate trascorse con voi é tutta una serie di bellissimi ricordi, e comincia dai vostri sorrisi, dal calore che comunicate a chi neppure vi conosce!
PS. Italia 1994
A month passed but we still remember the wonderful experience of the flight. On behalf of all of us I thank you for this extraordinary ride (including the march in the mud – you still owe me a pair of shoes!). Waiting for our next champagne breakfast (after a ride of course).
EW. Israel 1996
