Design Hotels has introduced short duration trips in Europe. The new initiative with Design Anthology UK – an influential media brand in the European design scene – offers like-minded individuals the opportunity to commune, connect, and create while discovering unique corners of the world.

Tauck is offering guests of its small group ‘A Week in… Tuscany and Umbria’ itinerary the opportunity to hear from acclaimed author Frances Mayes, whose memoir ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ was made into the Hollywood film. Mayes will share reflections on her 30 years in Italy with guests on the eight-day itinerary on over a dozen departures in 2023 and 2024, when the tour visits her adopted town of Cortona.

The 12th-century Castello di Antognolla in Umbria will be the second destination in Italy for the Six Senses Hotels, Resorts and Spas brand.

Boutique travel specialist, Italy Culture Trails, has released a series of seven-night packages to showcase some of Italy’s most popular tourist hot spots including Umbria, Tuscany and the Lakes district. Designed for small groups of up to 12 guests, the packages are centred around stays at hand-picked luxury villas in each region and include daily sightseeing and activities, fine dining, private wine tastings and more.