Travel Specialties
Interests
- River Cruising
- Ocean Cruising
- Beach & Sun
- Independent Tours
- Culture, History & Arts
Destinations
- Italy
- Mexico
- Ireland
- France
- Spain
- View More...
Selling Travel Since
1996
Languages
- English
- Italian
My Background
I joined Travel Experts in 2013 and have 17 years of travel industry expertise, however my passion for travel started much earlier in my life at the age of 8 when I experienced International travel for the first time on visits to relatives in Italy and Ireland. I was hooked for life! Weekends in Chicago spent cooking with my Tuscan-born grandmother further developed my culinary sensibilities and set the stage for a career combining a love of cooking, food and wine with travel.
Fast forward several decades and over 40 trips to Europe later, which allows me to truly excel at crafting for my clients unique and amazing itineraries to Europe in general, and Italy , Ireland and France in particular. I am a certified Italy Specialist and France Destination Specialist. Whether by independent stay at a Tuscan Villa or private car and driver, Escorted tour , a River Cruise through Provence or a Mediterranean voyage, my frequent travels allow me to determine the style of travel that will result in the best possible trip for each client, as well as step-by-step preparation on what to expect and most importantly , instilling the same sense of wonder and excitement for travel I felt on that first trip so long ago (not to mention sharing my secrets for where to find the best sandwich in Florence or the tastiest tapas in Barcelona ! )
My recent travels have focused on discovering some of the lesser known regions and cuisine of Italy that would be perfect for travelers who have already visited "the big three" Italian cities and are looking for something different- from an Alpine picnic lunch after hiking in the Dolomite Mountains , to exploring medieval villages along Lake Garda, to learning how to make Eggplant Caponata at a luxury B & B in Sicily, there are so many possibilities !
As a native Chicagoan, I am also no stranger to our endlessly long,cold winters , the perfect antidote to which is a few days in the sun. In between visits to Europe, I keep myself educated on the latest in-the-know destinations and newly opened hotels, and have visited many of the best beach and Spa Virtuoso resorts in the US, Mexico and the Caribbean.
I am very fortunate to have a career that allows me to continue to travel to fantastic places and then share my experiences with my clients. I look forward to helping you design your next exciting journey somewhere amazing !
Fast forward several decades and over 40 trips to Europe later, which allows me to truly excel at crafting for my clients unique and amazing itineraries to Europe in general, and Italy , Ireland and France in particular. I am a certified Italy Specialist and France Destination Specialist. Whether by independent stay at a Tuscan Villa or private car and driver, Escorted tour , a River Cruise through Provence or a Mediterranean voyage, my frequent travels allow me to determine the style of travel that will result in the best possible trip for each client, as well as step-by-step preparation on what to expect and most importantly , instilling the same sense of wonder and excitement for travel I felt on that first trip so long ago (not to mention sharing my secrets for where to find the best sandwich in Florence or the tastiest tapas in Barcelona ! )
My recent travels have focused on discovering some of the lesser known regions and cuisine of Italy that would be perfect for travelers who have already visited "the big three" Italian cities and are looking for something different- from an Alpine picnic lunch after hiking in the Dolomite Mountains , to exploring medieval villages along Lake Garda, to learning how to make Eggplant Caponata at a luxury B & B in Sicily, there are so many possibilities !
As a native Chicagoan, I am also no stranger to our endlessly long,cold winters , the perfect antidote to which is a few days in the sun. In between visits to Europe, I keep myself educated on the latest in-the-know destinations and newly opened hotels, and have visited many of the best beach and Spa Virtuoso resorts in the US, Mexico and the Caribbean.
I am very fortunate to have a career that allows me to continue to travel to fantastic places and then share my experiences with my clients. I look forward to helping you design your next exciting journey somewhere amazing !
Places I Have Traveled
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Reviews and Recommendations for Rita Madrigali
100%
of 27 guests
recommend
recommend
Virtuoso Verified Traveler
All reviews are from confirmed guests sharing exclusive insights
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Recommended
The Best Travel Agent I ever had !!!!!!
By: Harvey
Reviewed on: 12 May 2014
She knows what I want & need and takes care of it. No surprises when I make the trip, from Airlines, to hotel accomodations to transfers & guides. Makes my trips all that more enjoyable.
Recommended
Highly recommended
By: Maureen
Reviewed on: 25 Jun 2014
Rita always does an excellent job. Very prompt in responding to requests. Very competent & knowledgeable.
Recommended
Wonderfully knowledgable
By: Pdk
Reviewed on: 25 Aug 2014
Rita is the best! She has planned six trips for us and each has been wonderful. She has guided us in choosing trips we enjoyed. Rita had also provided information on extra things to do at destinations. We love her expertise.
Recommended
65th Celebration
By: MM
Reviewed on: 21 Sep 2014
Rita made our reservations and everything was perfect!! The hotel and Rita made sure my celebration was as special as possible. The suite was beautiful with a gorgeous view of the water tower and Hancock Building. Rita always goes above and beyond to ensure my trip or outing will be outstanding. She is wonderful !!!!!
Recommended
Always a great experience!
By: Kathy
Reviewed on: 07 Mar 2015
A family trip to Phillie with people from Chicago and Delray Beach ranging in ages from 3 to 68. How do you please all of us? Rita can always do it. From flights to hotels-the Ritz Carlton-and everything in between-food, beds, transportation, and special amenities. Always a treat! Would not an a trip without her help!!!!!!
Recommended
One & Only Nassau
By: Harvey
Reviewed on: 27 Mar 2015
Rita did a great job as always.
Recommended
Cruise Comments
By: Chief
Reviewed on: 19 Jun 2015
Rita, as usual, provided a well planned and executed trip with great attention to detail and follow-up. She is the best travel agent with whom we have worked.
Recommended
Hualalai
By: AWiese
Reviewed on: 23 Jun 2015
We had a fabulous trip to Hawaii and only have lovely things to say about our experience at the Four Seasons Hualalai! The facilities are beautiful and there is truly something for everyone. Lots of activities and dining options right on property. I was amazed how each restaurant had such a unique offering of food and drink with less overlap than I anticipated. It is so unique how they have developed such a large and green resort amidst the lava rocks. Our room felt very private and yet very close to everything we needed. We enjoyed the quiet adult pool but also spent time by the family pool. We only ventured off property once to go zip lining and otherwise just soaked up the fabulous service and scenery at the resort.
Recommended
A Perfect Family Vacation
By: Kathy K
Reviewed on: 15 Aug 2015
Rita planned a multigenerational trip-grandparents (us), our children, and our grandchildren. We went to the Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island. It has something for everyone. Beautiful beach, beautiful pools, great spa, great food, children's activities, and best of all a great staff! The people who work there are some of the nicest people I have ever met! My husband is already talking about going there again next year. Thank you Rita!!!!!!
Recommended
Perfect Trip
By: KathyK
Reviewed on: 20 May 2018
Rita is amazing! She helped plan a trip to Ireland that was absolutely perfect. She listens to what we would like to see and do and also makes excellent suggestions to fill out the trip. She then organizes the trip beginning to end-flights, transportation, hotels and activities. She always makes herself available if you have questions. And the Adare Manor was the most fabulous hotel I have ever had the pleasure of staying in. Thank you Rita!!!
Recommended
ATrip Worth Waiting For!
By: KathyK
Reviewed on: 22 Nov 2015
Over 2 years ago my husband and I started planning a trip with friends for October of 2014. The first and important thing we did was contact Rita. She has organized many wonderful adventures for us. We were impressed with her suggestion of Rhine River Cruise on AMA Waterways. Rita made the reservations-airline, cruise line, a 2 night stay in Lucerne at a beautiful hotel, a guide 1/2 day in Lucerne, and adventures up Mount Stans with a candle light dinner, and up Mount Rigi-both on gondolas. Exciting. Then came the wonderful news, my daughter was pregnant and due the same time as the trip was planned. I knew I had to be home. I called Rita with the good/bad news. What did she say? CONGRATULATIONS! She was wonderful. After all her hard work she was just excited for my family. And she started all over-and planned the most wonderful trip for us this past October. It truly was a trip worth waiting for. Great hotel, great cruise, great food, great guides, great time!!!!
Recommended
Grand Velas trip
By: Josh
Reviewed on: 05 Mar 2016
Had great trip to the Grand Velas Resort. All inclusive, beautiful property,excellent food. Huge all suite rooms. Highly recommend.
Recommended
An Expert
By: Mary66
Reviewed on: 07 Mar 2016
Everything Rita put into place went smoothly as always. She always makes the trip a wonderful experience.
Recommended
Barcelona and Paris
By: Maureen
Reviewed on: 05 Jun 2016
Both hotels were great. My favorite was the Majestic in Barcelona. All tours excellent. Carlos who did the Montserrat tour was excellent and you should use him again. As usual Rita you had every detail worked out for a memorable journey. I'm always happy with your excellent service.
Recommended
Wonderful trip !
By: Mary Paris
Reviewed on: 07 Jun 2016
Rita planned a wonderful trip for us! She always takes the time to really understand what we are looking to do and comes through. Our hotels were wonderful with fantastic views. The Virtuoso upgrade to the Club Lounge in Paris is always amazing and so enjoyed by all. Rita cares about her clients and plans the trip as if she is going with us. Thank you Rita for all you do!
Recommended
Mexico
By: Jma
Reviewed on: 04 Mar 2017
Excellent experience. Available during the week and weekends to discuss any issues.
Recommended
Sarasota
By: MP
Reviewed on: 17 Mar 2017
Rita
Made my flight reservations and everything was great as always.
She is easy to work with.
Rita is the best!
Recommended
Puerto Rico
By: Rebecca
Reviewed on: 10 Apr 2017
As always, Rita did not disappoint! Her attention to detail was fabulous. This is a trip that we will remember for ever!
Recommended
Florida trip
By: Kathy
Reviewed on: 29 May 2017
As always-wonderful. She always helps me with my travel plans and is helpful, knowledgeable, and way to work with!
Recommended
The trip that did not happen!
By: Kathy K
Reviewed on: 28 Aug 2017
Due to a last minute family crisis, we had to cancel our trip to Seattle. Our flight was to leave at 11am and I found out at 6am. I emailed Rita immediately to see if she could cancel all my reservations-flight, car service and hotel. Rita took care of all of this for me-and was even able to have The Four Seasons waive their late cancellation fee. It was a very stressful time but thanks to Rita, I did not have to stress over these details. I am looking forward to rebooking. Rita is the BEST!!!!!
Recommended
Aug. Seaborn Sojurn Alaska cruise
By: Chief
Reviewed on: 02 Sep 2017
She is the best.
Recommended
Cabo
By: Alpert
Reviewed on: 12 Feb 2018
Excellent. Great perks
Recommended
Rita saves the day
By: KathyK
Reviewed on: 14 Jun 2018
My husband and I were scheduled on a flight from Florida to Chicago on a late Friday afternoon. It was very important-to my 3 year old granddaughter-that we be home for her Saturday ballet recital. At 10:30 Friday morning I was notified our flight was canceled. There was a flight leaving at 1:30 with few remaining seats. I don’t know what magic Rita used but she got us on that flight and we made it to the recital Saturday. Well worth the trip. Thank you Rita!
Recommended
The Perfect 4th of July!
By: KathyK
Reviewed on: 19 Jul 2018
Working with Rita is always a pleasure. She knows I always need help planning vacations and activities. And each time she outdoes herself. My husband and I went with my son and daughter in law to Cape Cod for the 4th. The Chatham Inn was wonderful, an international staff who could not have been nicer or more helpful. Rita planned activities-spa time, whale watching, interactive cooking classes, beach time. And of course great dining options. She also recommended Chatham’s 4th of July parade. Best home town parade ever-it was truly a neighborhood parade. Tractors, boats, marching bands, military, garage bands, bicycles. It was what I think a parade should be-a community event. Great vacation!
Recommended
River Cruise
By: Mary
Reviewed on: 03 Oct 2018
I have worked with Rita since 2011 and always find her to be professional and extremely helpful. She goes above and beyond to be sure my trip is perfect!
Recommended
Mexico
By: Mexico
Reviewed on: 03 Feb 2019
Excellent job by Rita
Working with Rita Madrigali, you will have access to:
- - Special perks and extra amenities
- - An experienced travel guide whom you can rely on before, during, and after the trip
- - Exclusive luxury resorts and properties
- - Once in a lifetime experiences
Explore with the Best
Virtuoso Advisors are constantly pushing the boundaries in unique travel experiences.Alliance programs are unique tailored experiences exclusive to travelers working with Virtuoso Travel Advisors.
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- Italy
- Mexico
- Ireland
- France
- Spain
- Portugal
- United Kingdom
- Croatia
- United States - Hawaii
- Greece
- United States - All
- Canada
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- South Africa