Amy Barnes was raised in France, Germany, and Turkey until the age of seven. While working on a liberal arts major at the University of South Florida she traveled to Italy in 1978. Visiting a friend in Florence she met the fellow next door, an Italian documentary film maker. The encounter was decisive and by 1979 she was back in Florence for good. Initially she worked as a camera assistant to her husband before moving on to location/production work for documentaries. She has worked for numerous international productions including BBC One, BBC Two, The Discovery Channel, The History Channel, National Geographic, A&E Biographies, Channel 4, Granada, PBS and others. In a parallel career Amy has worked as a Trip Leader with Wilderness Travel for many years and has designed itineraries in many regions including the Italian Lake District, Umbria, Liguria, and Tuscany. "There is a certain sort of density peculiar to this country. Italy's spectacular geography had a heavy hand in determining its history. For me there is no more beautiful or extraordinary country on the planet!" Amy enjoys Tai Chi, but everything is second to traveling!
Amy was an eternally calm presence and the best picnic caterer ever!
I really enjoyed what Amy contributed to our tour. She had a lot to share about Italian culture and history and was very easy to talk to.
What a force for good Amy is! She was always a calm, soothing, positive presence, and we loved just being with her and feeling her enthusiasm.
She worked very hard to provide us with an exceptional experience, but she made the "work" look effortless.
Amy Barnes is not only knowledgeable about Italy, her planning was exquisite. Each connection was made so smoothly we had no sense, really, of the effort, foresight, and commitment that such connections entailed. Amy Barnes is also a person of singular grace and charm. She made everyone feel welcome, supported, appreciated.
Not only is Amy a super trip leader, she is also a wonderful person who is truly interested her work and the people in her care. Made the trip itineraries interesting and enjoyable.
Amy was a real delight. Her love of Italy showed through and greatly added to our enjoyment of the trip.
Amy has tremendous historical knowledge and really made every place come to life.
Amy was very professional, yet friendly and concerned for the participants.
I enjoy Amy's calm leadership, dedication, and professionalism. She always made sure we got the most possible out of the cultural experiences in each area. I learned a lot!
Amy is one of the most fascinating and knowledgeable people I have ever met. Perfect for leading such a fantastic journey. Patient, friendly, fun, the best!
Amy was fantastic. We so enjoyed her knowledge and enthusiasm for Italy’s northern regions.
Amy was great! Kind and good spirited.
