FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact:   Elissa Ruffino (NIAF) 202/939-3106 or elissa@niaf.org

(WASHINGTON, DC – July 11, 2005) The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) continues its popular travel program to Italy with a series of nine-day/seven- night tours of cities throughout the region of Umbria and the city of Arezzo in Tuscany during the months of September, October and November 2005 and February through June 5, 2006. Tours will visit the cities of Arezzo, Assisi, Cortona, Gubbio, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Orvieto, Perugia, Pienza, Spoleto, and Todi. Costs range from $1,519 to $1,739 per person, based on double occupancy and month of departure.

Participants receive round-trip airfare from NYC/JFK to Rome on Alitalia; seven nights accommodations at the four-star “Hotel Planet” (double occupancy); seven buffet-style continental breakfasts and seven dinners; and transfers to and from the airport and hotel. Other U.S. cities of embarkation at an additional charge are subject to availability and scheduling. The tour program, which has been sold out every year for the past nine years, is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants may choose from 23 departure dates beginning September 26, 2005 and running through June 5, 2006. The travel program is partially supported by Assindustria Arezzo / Confindustria. 

Three full-day escorted excursions to Perugia/Assisi, Spoleto/Todi/Orvieto, Pienza/Montalcino/Montepulciano, and three half-day trips to Arezzo, Cortona and Gubbio are planned. An English-speaking guide will escort each group. For additional information and to download a brochure, please visit www.niaf.org/travel.

The NIAF, a non-profit organization based in Washington, DC, is dedicated to preserving the heritage of Italian Americans. The NIAF organizes cultural activities and helps young people with scholarships, internships and other programs. Visit our web site at www.niaf.org