A wise tour guide once said, "Be a traveler, not just a tourist." Getting the most out of the Tuscan experience means you need to follow his advice, deviate off the beaten track and see more than the usual tourist sights. The world is becoming a smaller place by the minute with the Internet, McDonald's, Coca Cola and even All-A-Dollar (All-A-Euro in Italy). As our cultures become more homogeneous we need to seek out the things that make us different and enjoy them before they're gone. Tuscany, with its beautiful landscapes and friendly people, still offers a cultural adventure if you're prepared to do some walking and aren't afraid to interact with the locals, and when it's over you'll leave with memories of people, not just places.

Timing
Italy, like most of Europe, is busiest during the summer months. To avoid tourist congestion, high hotel prices and the heat of summer, it makes sense to visit in the spring or fall. The temperature may be a little cooler with a bit of rain, but the payoffs in savings, comfort and beating the crowds make it well worth going in the off-season .

Getting there
Be prepared for a long time in the air. Despite the choices of multiple movies, music and magazines, a 17-hour flight (including layovers) does wear on you. American carriers with their aging aircraft may not be quite as comfortable as European airlines, such as Luftfhansa, with their new Skybuses.

Ground transportation
Many travel companies now offer packages that include hotel accommodations, transportation, to and from the airport, and optional guided tours. You could rent a car, but with the cost of gas in Italy at over $9 a gallon it makes more sense to use the commuter rail. Trains are comfortable, easy to use and on time. Except for traveling long distances, the best way of getting around is to walk or rent a bicycle. Walking affords you the opportunity of enjoying the sights, smells and people of this beautiful historic area.

Land of the euro
Like many a traveler, you'll be tempted to think of one euro and one dollar as being equal. DON'T! Unless, of course, you're trying to soften the impact of the high prices for everything in Europe. It's expensive. At one time, long ago, the exchange might have been close but not anymore.

Base of operations
On previous trips to Italy we had stayed in larger cities, such as Florence and Rome, and while