Planning an escape this time of year can be a bit hectic. Most U.S. cities are either too crowded or too cold. Plus, we all have so much to do at home that leaving isn’t always an option or even on our minds. But if you can steal a few days for an escape, then there’s no better choice than the heart of the Napa Valley region.

For starters, harvest season is over, which means fewer crowds flocking to the area. And the people hosting visitors do go all out for the holidays. The decorations are stellar — from quaint hotel lobbies serving the best hot chocolate and limitless hospitality to equally charming independent wineries. I was there last December and again this October, and can say without a doubt that December is an ideal time to visit.

If you want to be close to the very best restaurants, shopping and community events that seem to be endless, a couple of nights inside Yountville city limits are the optimum choice. Several welcoming and luxurious properties are located within steps of the best dining in California.

Australia’s Medicare has an arrangement with the Italian health department – we are an accredited nation so you should be able to receive basic temporary care until you organise full cover for anything serious.

Medical Insurance – based on my experience with a client of mine who arrived already ill to begin one of my Tuscan tours, was that a hospital or doctor in Italy has to declare you unfit to travel and must sign off on a form for you to request your medical cover travel company to fly you home. You cannot contact them and ask them to assist you to get home without an Italian doctor signing off.

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