Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Tour include airfare?
No, you must book your own flights to arrive in Milan on Sat or Sunday March 19th or 20th. We discovered that most people have air miles and want to use them.
You may, if you wish, contact Ray our travel agent here in Mercer Island. His email is ray@continentaltvl.com you can also call him at 206-232-9000. Mention the car guy tour and talk to him about air fare rates and the use of any air miles you may have.
What's included in the Tour?
The price of the tour includes excellent three- and four-star hotels with "first class" breakfast each day (other meals are extra), rental car, tour jacket, hat and name tag.
The tour includes visits to Milan, including the Duomo and Galleria, (Leonardo's last Supper optional) Zagato, Zagato Restorations, Alfa Romeo Museum, Alfa Romeo Centro Stile, Pininfarina Centro Stile, Lancia Museum, I.DE.A, Bertone Centro Stile, DeTomaso, Ferrari Galleria, Maserati, Lamborghini, Edonis, Pagani, Ristorantes, Pizzerias, Go shopping, Balsamic Vinegar, Private Collections, Modena, Torino, Autostradas, Autogrills, Go shopping, 3- and 4-star hotels, Purchase parts, See the amazing Autosport restoration shop, Drive on the Via Emilia, Ferraris, Ferrari Restorations, Enjoy Lambrusco, Taste the Worlds best Parmesan cheese, Visit the Maserati Collection, Go shopping, "meet me at the bar", pasta, toll booth, Drive on the Tangenziale, meet friendly Italians, shopping, photographs, Get totally blown away "I can't believe what I just saw!" "out of drool and out of film."
Can I request an Alfa 156 rental car?
We make every attempt to get Alfas for the guys who request them, but we cannot guarantee it. Rental car companies only guarantee small medium and large cars.
Having said that, if you get a car you don't want we'll try to exchange it for what you want when we get to Turin, provided they have one, which they usually do. Who knows you may like that Renault turbocharged diesel that looks like a cartoon car that turns out to be surprisingly fast!
What are the dates of the car guy tour?
Sunday March 20th. through Wed. March 30th. 2005
Who is the tour guide and what is his experience?
Frank Mandarano is the tour guide. Frank is the founder in 1976 of the Maserati Club International/MIE Corp. and the Concorso Italiano in 1986.
Frank has been going to Italy and visiting the places on the tour each year for over 25 years. Frank is a true Italian car guy super enthusiast. Frank has owned and driven literally every Maserati GT car and currently owns a Maserati Mistral Spyder, 34 Ford high boy "rat rod" with a Dave Tatom tuned Flat head, 39 ford trans and banjo rear end.
In addition to the cars you'll find a 2003 Harley Softtail Heritage and a exact knock off of a 67 Triumph Bonneville the Kawasaki W650.
Will my wife or girl friend enjoy the tour?
Women have traditionally enjoyed the tour as much as the guys, as there are always plenty to do and see. Typically there are 5 to 8 ladies on the tour. We are happy to give you the names of some ladies that have gone on the tour for you to get their perspective.
What should I bring?
Travel light, 1 roller suitcase and one roller carry on bag. One sport coat if you are inclined. Dress for mild weather. A complete check list will be sent to you prior to departure. The tour includes a logo jacket, hat and name tag.
I do not speak Italian, how will I get along?
Most of the Italians we come in contact with speak English. You also learn to communicate with hands and numbers.
Do I need an international driver license?
No
What are the speed limits?
Speed limits are posted but rarely enforced. In my 27+ years I have (knock on wood) never been stopped for speeding. Driving in Italy is "the best." Traffic flows and you go with the flow.
Is security an issue?
Tourism is Italy's biggest industry, and therefore taken very seriously. Most importantly Modena and Turin are not tourist destinations, so you don¿t have that element of society that preys on tourist. We are in Milan for 1 or 2 days and there is a lot to see. Travel in small groups and use common sense. In short, don't worry about it.
What day will we be visiting Maranello and Ferrari?
Thursday March 24th will be dedicated to all things Ferrari, including meeting for lunch at the famous Cavallino Ristorante, the Ferrari Galleria museum, Ferrari Shopping Super store, Warm Up and Formula 1 Shopping. Ferrari owners should schedule their Factory tours in the afternoon beginning at 2:00 or 2:30PM.