Italy Travel Agent Specialist

View My Main Profile
Denise D Smalls, Travel Agent in Columbia, SC

Denise D Smalls

Columbia, SC Travel Agent

Denise D Smalls

Columbia, SC · 10 Years of Experience

Denise D Smalls, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Davis, CA
5.0
(8)
100% Recommended
I never cruise before and was apprehensive about doing one. Denise totally calmed my nerve and booked me on my first cruise to the Bahamas! Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Italy, Rome, Florence, Tuscany, Venice

Interests:

Historical Sites, Couples & Romance, Food & Wine, Groups, Shopping

About Me

Italy Galore!
Italy Galore!

   My first trip to Europe was to Italy.  As the plane was trying to land all of a sudden the pilot came on and said " I need to abort landing!". Well what a start to my first big adventure!  We later found out a farmer's livestock had gone astray across the strip preventing the landing. Wow that really perked of my adrenaline and that was just the first of those episodes! I decided to take a taxi to my hotel and my the aborted landing was nothing compared to that taxi ride! I arrived safely to my hotel and was pleased with accommodations. I had a great view of the Coliseum and shops and restaurants were all walking distance to my hotel. 

   A journey to remember. There’s a magic to Italy that words almost fail to capture, but I’ll try. From the moment I landed in Rome, I was swept up in a whirlwind of ancient ruins, vibrant street life, and mouth watering food. Every corner seemed to hold a story, every piazza a secret waiting to be discovered. I wandered through the alleys of Venice, where the melody of gondoliers echoed off the pastel buildings and the canals shimmered in the afternoon light. In Florence, I lost myself among masterpieces at the many museums and climbed to Piazzale Michelangelo for a sunset that set the whole city aglow. But perhaps the true heart of Italy lies in the small moments: sharing laughter with strangers over a plate of pasta in a family-run trattoria, getting lost in the winding streets of Siena, and watching the sun dip below the vineyards in Tuscany while enjoying a glass of wine. Italy isn’t just a place to visit, but a feeling..a beautiful blend of art, history, and joy that lingers long after the trip ends.

   Since that first trip i have gone back many times. I hosted a rail trip from Pisa to Florence. The trains are an economical and lovely way to travel around Italy. They have Wi-Fi, refreshment stations and comfy seats. You must try at less one time. Girl's trip toured the Grand Canal sailing under the oldest and iconic Rialato Bridge stopping for shopping at the many shops nestled along the canals.  Pick up some of the beautiful handmade Carnival mask or Murano glass creation. Pompeii is a remarkably preserved site of ruins. Ancient Roman city buried under ash and pumice by Mount Vesuvius;s eruption in 79 AD.  Frozen in time, the city offers insights into Roman life, including houses, baths and haunting plaster cast of victims.  There were cats and dogs all around and I learned people leave their animals there while traveling! You will be awed by the House of the Vetti and the Faun, notable for their size, decorations and luxurious layouts. 

   So if any of these activities peak your interest give me a call or email and we can start to plan your vacation dreams in Italy! 

 

 

 

 

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
8 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
Search reviews:

Showing 8 reviews

Best Cruise
Reviewed By Ruth - North Carolina | Traveled to Bahamas | Caribbean
I never cruise before and was apprehensive about doing one. Denise totally calmed my nerve and booked me on my first cruise to the Bahamas!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
All Aboard for a Train Ride
Reviewed By Train Fan! - Tampa, Florida | Traveled to Brussels | Belgium | Europe
With Denise's guidance, I took the train from Amsterdam to Brussels and honestly, it reminded me why I prefer rail over flying. Boarding was painless, the seats had actual legroom, and the ride was quiet and the space roomy. Denise suggested I upgrade for extra leg room and access to lounge. The scenery was a bonus—rolling fields, small towns, and long stretches of green that made the hours pass quickly. Thanks for a great experience!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Family Fun
Reviewed By Family Super Vacation - Springfield, Missouri | Traveled to Orlando | Florida | USA
My family's vacation was a big success thanks to Denise's careful planning and cost saving tips! Denise suggested point of interest that my family didn't even consider! Great experience! Will use again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Complete Relaxed!
Reviewed By Miss Tee - New Jersey | Traveled to Mexicali | Mexico | Mexico
Denise recommended Playa del Carmen and I said why not! I was traveling solo and she convinced me this would be a good spot for food and beach. My hotel was walking distance to a beach club and I enjoyed fresh seafood and frosty cocktails. Most relaxing vacation I have had in awhile! Thanks Denise for your help!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Niagara Falls
Reviewed By Happy in Norfolk - Virginia | Traveled to Niagara Falls | New York | USA
My wife and I never consider this destination! We have traveled all over the world and after Denise suggested trying this iconic spot.. we said why not! She recommended the Maid of the Mist boat tour and that was awesome! Through planning with Denise, my wife and I had a marvelous time. She will definitely help us with our next vacation.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
BESbswy