Select Italy

An In-Depth Look at Select Italy, a Chicago-Based Travel Specialist

Operating from its office at 303 W Erie St in Chicago, Select Italy has established itself as a notable travel agency with a deep-rooted focus on Italian destinations. Founded in 1997, the company's mission has been to provide highly specialized, custom-oriented travel services. For decades, it has catered to travelers seeking more than a standard vacation, positioning itself as a creator of state-of-the-art tours and authentic activities. However, a closer examination of its services, customer feedback, and corporate evolution reveals a complex picture, presenting distinct advantages and potential drawbacks for prospective clients.

Expertise in Luxury and Custom Itineraries

The core strength of Select Italy lies in its profound specialization in Italy. Positive client feedback consistently highlights the quality of the arrangements, with one customer describing their experience as entirely "first class." Another long-term client praised the company for its "great people" and "great Italian travel products." This reputation is built on curating luxury travel experiences. The agency emphasizes its ability to arrange stays in unique accommodations, from boutique hotels to grand villas and seaside resorts, and offers a menu of exclusive activities such as wine tastings, historical tours, and specialized culinary programs. This focus on high-quality, hand-picked components is a significant draw for discerning travelers looking for meticulously planned vacation packages.

The company operates as a boutique tour operator, designing trips from the ground up based on client interests and budgets. This involves one-on-one collaboration with experienced travel consultants who handle every detail, from private transfers to museum tickets. For travelers overwhelmed by the complexities of international travel planning, this high-touch service model promises a seamless and stress-free process. The staff is noted to include native Italian and American professionals, whose passion and knowledge are intended to ensure a high level of service and authenticity.

Corporate Evolution and Expanded Horizons

An important factor for any potential customer to consider is the company's recent evolution. In 2018, Select Italy was acquired by the Uvet Group, a major Italian travel company. This partnership has expanded the agency's portfolio beyond Italy to include other European destinations, a move that provides more options for creating multi-country itineraries. This expansion is reflected in a rebranding effort, with the business also operating under the name Select Getaways. This strategic shift positions them to handle more diverse and complex tailor-made holidays. While their deep expertise remains rooted in Italy, the backing of a larger global entity like Uvet provides access to a wider network of suppliers and potentially more competitive rates on luxury properties.

Concerns Regarding Customer Support and Crisis Management

Despite the many positive attributes, there is a significant counter-narrative found in customer feedback that warrants careful consideration. One detailed account describes a severely negative experience involving a trip to Spain, which cost $37,000. The client reported a stark decline in communication and enthusiasm from the agency immediately after the payment was made. The situation escalated dramatically when their Iberia flight was delayed for over 26 hours, an event described as "pure chaos."

According to this review, the agency's response was deeply inadequate. The client claims that requests for help were met with silence or blame directed at the airline, with no tangible support offered during a critical moment of travel disruption. This incident raises serious questions about the agency's crisis management protocols and its commitment to client support after a booking is finalized. For travelers investing substantial sums into their trips, the assurance of reliable support during unforeseen circumstances is paramount. The agency's standard operating hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, which suggests that immediate, around-the-clock assistance may not be available—a critical detail for those traveling across different time zones.

What to Consider Before Booking

The available information presents two very different potential outcomes for a client of Select Italy. On one hand, the agency is a team of passionate destination specialists capable of crafting exceptional, first-class Italian journeys. Their long history, positive testimonials, and portfolio of luxury offerings suggest a high level of competence in designing dream vacations when everything goes according to plan.

On the other hand, the documented failure in customer support during a crisis is a significant red flag. The experience reported by one client highlights a potential gap between the planning phase and the on-the-ground support phase. While this negative review is several years old, and a more recent review is glowingly positive, the severity of the complaint cannot be overlooked. It underscores the inherent risks of relying on a third party when things go wrong with suppliers like airlines.

Potential customers should take a proactive approach. It would be prudent to have a direct conversation with the travel consultants at Select Italy about their specific policies regarding travel disruptions. Key questions to ask include:

• What level of support is provided if flights are canceled or significantly delayed?
• Is there a 24/7 emergency contact number for travelers currently on their trip?
• How does the agency mediate disputes or issues with third-party suppliers like hotels, tour operators, or airlines?
• What are the terms and conditions regarding cancellations and refunds, particularly in situations outside of the traveler's control?

In conclusion, Select Italy, now broadening its scope as Select Getaways, offers a compelling proposition for travelers seeking expertly crafted, high-end European vacations, with a particular mastery of Italy. Their ability to deliver a "first class" experience is evident. However, prospective clients must weigh this against the reported inconsistencies in customer support. The ideal client is likely one who values deep destination knowledge and custom planning, but who is also prepared to thoroughly vet the agency's support systems before committing to one of their sophisticated and often costly custom itineraries.