We have travelled many times with other groups and with Inside The Vatican. Although the travels have been quite beneficial and enjoyable with virtually all the groups, those with ITV have truly stood out as the very best in all respects. The effort expended in planning and execution are incomparable. Most notably, the accommodation of special needs and requests demonstrate a true concern for ensuring the best possible experience for each pilgrim. In addition, the itinerary is incomparable. Special "off-script" opportunities present themselves through the special contacts and relationships that ITV have, which are very likely not possible with other groups. Travel with ITV is not mere "touring," but a true pilgrimage that can be cherished for a lifetime. We cannot recommend Inside The Vatican Pilgrimages highly enough, and they are truly what their name implies.

I went last year and thoroughly enjoyed. Had the opportunity to repeat this year. This year it was a smaller group and made it easier to get to know each other. The leaves and weather seemed to be a bit better this time around too! (Not that that can be controlled at this point!) Enjoyed seeing the Basilica at Christenden (sp.=?) College and how much progress had been made on the construction since last year. Completion/Dedication date set for this coming spring, so will most certainly make a special trip next summer to see the masterpiece! Also, my traveling partner and I had suggested there be more time for prayer and seemed to have been granted this year. Several stops allowed Adoration and other than the final day, celebrating daily Mass was also special. The Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton was fabulous as well with its beautiful Basilica and the tour of the grounds where it all began. Seeing the original school house and the austerity of those times, made one not only appreciate all the conveniences of today, but have a true understanding of commitment and the desire to overcome the hardships for the betterment of all. Most inspirational! And Gettysburg National Cemetery is in a class all by itself. Standing on it sacred, holy soil is powerful. It made my heart and soul swell with pride with the dedication and the ultimate sacrifice that so many paid to secure freedom. In these times of discontent, I needed a large dose of patriotism! I have been there 3 times now, and still feel its compelling call for remembrance and veneration. I'll be back! The Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes was also a spiritual treat. The chapel where we had Mass with the "glass walls" opening to the heavenly beauty of an autumn day with all the glorious foliage, made Mass almost seem as if we were already in paradise. Loved the bronze Stations of the Cross; would like to have had time to pray them. The Adoration Chapel is intimate and inviting. The gift shop is one of the best stocked I have seen in a long time. Loved the special gesture of supplying holy water bottles to take some of the spring water home. Visiting of convent and praying with the sisters was very calming and a welcome change to the frenzy of the outside world. Would be nice just to spend a few days with them and unwind, but don't think they would approve of such an invasion. Didn't care much for the wine tasting trip. But then that is just me as I drink wine, or any other spirits, very little. Missed our visit with the hermit priest that we had last year, but understand he was called from this earthly life. Being with such holy people, even for a short time, gives one hope and encouragement in one's own journey to holiness. All in all, everything about the pilgrimage was wonderful! Of course, Dr. Moynihan & Deborah do give such thought and extra attention to all the details, making it all seem effortless. And the lectures and discussions lead by Dr. Moynihan are always relevant to the times with profound insight, as an insider, to the direction of the Church. So enjoyed our after dinner discussions, as gives one a feel on how the rest of the country - and world - understands how our faith and how our civilization is evolving. The accommodations were just right and the meals excellent. As a vegetarian, needing a special menu, everything was delicious and the staff most eager to please. A big thank you to the office staff, Katie in particular, and Dr. Moynihan and Deborah for giving me a week of spiritual reflection, relaxation and revival. The pilgrimage most definitely drew me closer to what hopefully it will be like when I arrive at my final destination!

It was a wonderful week spent in the Shanandoah Valley. The smaller group was great; everyone was so nice. I enjoyed the conversations in the Piano Room every evening - thought provoking and interesting. The sightseeing events were special. I especially liked Elizabeth Ann Seton because of all the history of this Saint. It was a great experience I won't soon forget. Thank You!