Our story

By Keli Sim DeRitis, Founder of Poggi Bonsi Tours

Poggi Bonsi began in 2001, inspired by a dream vacation to Tuscany with my family. I fell in love—with the food, the wine, the lifestyle, and the artistry. The simple yet delicious meals, the way work and family blended seamlessly, and the vibrant products crafted by generations of artisans in small villages—it all captured my heart.

With a background in art and graphic design, I was especially drawn to the brightly painted Italian pottery. Each piece told a story, and I knew I wanted to bring that magic home.

The name Poggi Bonsi comes from the Tuscan town of Poggibonsi. On that first trip, we got lost every day, and every road seemed to lead us back to Poggibonsi. The name stuck—fun to say, full of charm, and a perfect fit for the business I was about to create.

From 2003 to 2017, I ran a beloved kitchen store in the Seattle area, featuring European brands and offering cooking classes. Over the years, I traveled frequently to Italy and France, building relationships with artisans and importers. Eventually, customers began asking if they could join me on my buying trips—and so began a new chapter.

Since closing the retail store in 2017, my focus has shifted to organizing small group tours to Italy, France and England. These immersive experiences bring together like-minded travelers in ancient villas, where we share local culture, incredible food, and unforgettable wine. Magic happens when people connect over shared passions in beautiful places.

Salute!

Keli Sim DeRitis