The absolute highlight of our recent trip to Italy was a guided tour of Assisi given by Roy Grant, a retired Englishman living in Assisi. Roy began by telling us the story of St. Francis in his house, which is filled with antiques ("everything's ancient here, including me," he joked) and then led us on a chronological tour of the sites that defined Francis' life, ending at the Basilica of St. Francis. In the middle of the tour we had what was likely the best meal of our trip in a local outdoor restaurant overlooking the valley below.
I loved the structure of the tour - once you have the back story the churches and frescoes all make sense - and Roy really brought Assisi and St. Francis to life for us .
Craig Souza San Francisco, CA USA
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What a delightful visit we had in Assisi, particular the tour of your art collection, and terrace (spectacular), and the delicious lunch. We knew something of St. Francis before we arrived but so much of it was apocryphal and none of it half so interesting as the true story of the saint and his followers that you gave us over dessert and coffee. No doubt if we had not found you, we would have still visited the main sites of Assisi but I doubt we would have toured the sidelights and met some of the people who live there, day by day, walking its cobblestone streets and enjoying its beautiful views. We've talked and talked to our friends and family about you and Assisi, the highlight of our trip to Italy, so you should expect to see some of them there next year.
Again, thanks so much for everything.
Grace Brophy, New York USA
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My son and I both enjoyed your tour of Assisi so much that I felt I had to express our thanks. For me, your humorous tales of Umbrain folk in history brought life to the reading I had previously done. Your understanding of the Franciscan way of life, and ethos gave me a spiritual uplift which will stay with me for many years to come. My teenage son found the visit to the Rocca "really cool". What more can I say, except "See you again soon!"
Fiona Urquhart, Durham, UK
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Thank you so much for a truly inspiring and spritual tour of Assisi during my recent delightful stay in Umbria. Your witty anecdotal stories added life to the historical facts, and through your eyes, and personal knowledge of the town, I felt I gained an insight to both the place and the people which is normally available only as the result of prolonged contact. You have whetted my appetite for further Umbrian adventures!
John Randle, London, UK
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Our visit to Assisi was the highlight of our Italian holiday; partly because of the undeniable beauty of Assisi and the surrounding region but mostly because we were introduced to its wealth of history, culture and spirituality by our generous and amusing host: Roy. Roy clearly loves the area and his love of it is infectious.
We began the day at Roy's apartment, a treasure trove set in the ancient Roman city wall and bursting with antiques and beautiful pictures. Every item in the apartment, from the simplest to the most ornate, has been chosen with care and has a history to tell. It was a privilege to see so many wonderful things in a home that is also comfortable and welcoming.
After a relaxing drink, Roy told us the story of St Francis. We knew a little about St Francis but Roy is an expert. He truly brought him to life and listening to his narration while surrounded by works of art depicting the Saint was better than any tour guide or book.
Once we had learned more about St Francis, we were keen to see Assisi and the places Roy had described. Guided by Roy we walked along medieval streets, visited beautiful buildings such as the Basilica of San Francesco and church of San Damiano, and saw other less well-known attractions. It was a full day, with a delicious lunch at an Italian restaurant half way through. At every stage, Roy enhanced our enjoyment and knowledge. His company and his obvious enthusiasm for Assisi elevated the experience far beyond any conventional tour.
Assisi is a wonderful city and any visit to it is likely to be special. However, the reason we remember our trip to Assisi with so much pleasure is largely because of Roy. We greatly appreciated Roy sharing his love and knowledge of Assisi with us, as well as inviting us to his beautiful home. We would have absolutely no hesitation about recommending Roy.
Alison Standring and Colin Winckler, London
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We especially enjoyed the tour of Assisi by Roy Grant. This was a wonderful day in which we learnt so much of Assisi's secrets. He is very knowledgeable and so much fun. Highly recommended.
David Foot, London
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