Ever wonder what it’s like to magically know where the best hidden trattoria known only to locals is in Venice? Or to have one-on-one tutelage by a talented chef at a former Cisterian abbey in Burgundy? Or to just quietly soak up the last rays of sunshine on a private terrace overlooking the vineyards of Languedoc Roussillon after helping harvest the day’s grapes at a family run vineyard near Avignon? Well…wonder no more.

Whether hunting truffles of all types all over Italy, harvesting olive oil in Sicily, or curing meats in Piedmontese, all things “foodie” in Italy and France are now more magically doable than ever. These are a sampling of Purple Truffle experiences, which stem from supreme insider knowledge inspired by a passion and devotion to the gastronomic cultures of Italy and France enabling visitors to escape typical tourist trappings and to taste, live and see through the eyes of locals.

A travel design company offering passionate travelers and epicures some of the most extraordinary – all bespoke – experiences possible, Purple Truffle masterfully combines local expertise and first-hand knowledge with scintillating creativity and bon vivant savvy for a rare chance to discover the undiscovered, allowing those who take particular pleasure in food and wine to gain new tastes and insights into regional cultures.

Purple Truffle Founder Bonnie Brayham’s obsession with the tiny details and relationships with hoteliers, vintners, artisans and chefs allows access to exclusive rates, services and benefits. Bonnie, who’s originally from San Francisco but now based in Paris, has spent years creating a network of remarkable relationships to give her travelers a true taste of whatever best whets and tickles their palates and taste buds.

So whatever you do, don’t just do the Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris. Do the Purple Truffles. (And ask for Bonnie…tell her Area sent you.)