In "Under the Tuscan Sun," Frances Mayes emphasizes that the essence of a location goes beyond what traditional guidebooks convey. She argues that the true experience of a place is felt through its unique scents and the intuitive responses they evoke in visitors. It's about connecting with the environment on a sensory level rather than just relying on factual descriptions.

Mayes highlights the importance of personal experience and instinct in truly understanding a destination. While guidebooks can provide useful information, they often fail to capture the depth of a location’s atmosphere. The way smells can trigger emotions and memories plays a vital role in how we perceive and appreciate the places we visit.