BuonGusto (www.buongusto.co.uk), a new London-based tour operator, is launching specialist culinary holidays in the Veneto region of north east Italy. Uncovering one of Italy�s best kept secrets, the holidays combine the ambience of Italian culture and scenery with an introduction to the best of the region�s delicious food and wine.

BuonGusto can literally be translated as �good taste� in Italian. Designed with �foodies� and independent travellers in mind, the holidays are held in Vicenza, in the Veneto region of Italy, a mere 60km and 50km from Venice and Verona respectively. Guests can relax and unwind while taking advantage of hands-on cookery lessons; guidance on matching food and wine; visits to vineyards; wine tastings; evening meals at local restaurants; and trips to local attractions.

The holidays aren�t just aimed at would be Jamie Olivers � they�re suitable for people of all cooking abilities. The informal cookery lessons teach guests how to prepare simple meals as well as more complicated dishes that are sure to impress dinner party guests! All lessons are held by experienced, English-speaking local chefs, who have practiced their skills internationally and locally, ensuring the traditions of "cucina veneta" (Veneto cuisine) are maintained to the highest levels. After the lessons are finished, guests can sit down and enjoy the meal they have just prepared, while tasting local wines chosen by the chef.

The itinerary also includes private tours of vineyards that have been selected for their quality and prestige. These comprise of Italy�s second largest wine maker, Cantine Zonin, which has 4,000 acres of vineyards throughout the country, and Cantina Maculan, which is based in Breganze, approximately 20km north of Vicenza.

Other organised tours include trips to renowned local restaurants that serve regional specialities - which tourists might not otherwise find. Guests can take advantage of these organised elements of the tour, while remaining sufficiently free to choose exactly how they wish to spend the rest of their holiday. BuonGusto�s representative is available at all times to help guests make the most of the local area and can arrange excursions to historic local towns such as Padua and Marostica.

Nick Arzenton, director of BuonGusto, comments: �While most cookery holidays include full-scale, time-consuming courses, BuonGusto provides a holiday experience first and foremost. We offer a laid back approach and guests generally join us to have fun!�

He adds: �The Vicenza area is one of Italy�s best kept secrets. The cucina veneta is renowned for its quality. As our holidays prove, Veneto has much more to offer than just Venice and Verona. We are already generating a lot of interest in the UK and Italy.�

Full details concerning the prices and availability of BuonGusto�s culinary holidays are available at www.buongusto.co.uk Prices (excluding flights and transfers) start at �550 for a weekend break and �1,050 for a seven night break. Accommodation comprises charming "agriturismi" (villa farmhouses) which have been selected for their character, style and surroundings. Bookings can be made by phoning 0207 526 4909 or emailing enquiries@buongusto.co.uk.

Notes for Editors BuonGusto, a London-based company, was established in September 2004 by Nick Arzenton, who is originally from Vicenza. Nick moved to London in 1999 and decided to set up BuonGusto based on his passions for his home town, food and wine and his desire to promote one of the undiscovered gems of Italy. Nick�s extensive knowledge of local food and wine is a primary asset of the company.

BuonGusto is a member of the Travel Trust Association (TTA) (www.traveltrust.co.uk).

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For further information, please contact:

Nick Arzenton Tel: +44 (0)207 526 4909 Fax: +44 (0)870 762 6173 Email: nick.arzenton@buongusto.co.uk Website www.buongusto.co.uk