14 Day Classic France Tour

Transcription

1 14 Day Classic France Tour 14 days/13 nights - MyDiscoveries A country that is considered the epitome of art, culture and gastronomy, France seduces traveller with ease. As one of the worlds top destinations you can explore historic towns and rich histories as you visit Paris, Dijon and the Riverina to name a few locations. Your English-speaking tour manager will ensure you experience the most. HIGHLIGHTS Drive along the Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe and later continue on to the Iconic Eiffel Tower MyDiscoveries customers save $500pp 18 meals included Up to 23 set departure dates available in 2018 Packages with flights flying Qatar Airways and Land Only options available Itinerary

2 DAY 1, Wednesday - Depart for France Depart for France DAY 2, Thursday - Arrive in Paris Arrive in Paris, City of Lights and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and enjoy the endless delights of Paris. In the early evening, join your Tour Manager for a Welcome Drink and orientation on the wonderful journey that awaits you in France. Afterwards, a delightful cruise on the River Seine introduces you to the sparkling beauty of Paris at night Overnight: Paris DAY 3, Friday - Paris City Tour Drive along the impressive Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe, Concorde Square, and the iconic Eiffel Tower, symbol of Paris. On to the celebrated "Rive Gauche", the vivacious Left Bank, where artists, philosophers and writers in a long-gone era flourished in the artistic community at Montparnasse. View the imposing Cathedral of Notre Dame, and the Latin Quarter, home to many of France's higher education establishments, such as the Sorbonne. Pass the colorful Luxembourg Gardens, the second largest park in Paris and garden of the French Senate, housed in the Luxembourg Palace. This afternoon perhaps join the optional tour to magnificent Versailles to witness the grandeur of French classical architecture on the visit to the Palace and extravagant State Apartments. Tonight, you may wish to join the optional Montmartre & Illuminations tour with dinner and wine Optional: Versailles Apartments (PM) Optional: Montmartre & Illuminations with dinner (PM) Overnight: Paris DAY 4, Saturday - Champagne Tasting, Dijon Travel from Paris to the famed Champagne region with its magnificent stretches of vineyards as far as the eye can see. This historic province in the northeast of France, formerly ruled by the Counts of Champagne, is best known for the sparkling white wine that bears its name. In Epernay, visit one of the renowned cellars, learn more about the process and enjoy tastings of this very expensive bubbly delight. Its main boulevard is the elegant residential Avenue de Champagne, with its timeless neoclassical villas and Victorian town houses. Then continue to Dijon, once home to the Dukes of Burgundy, a vast center of wealth and power. View the striking Dijon Cathedral and the Ducal Palace, a remarkably well-preserved Gothic structure that served as the royal residence for the estates of Burgundy. Overnight in Dijon, also known as home of the tasty mustard Overnight: Dijon DAY 5, Sunday - Beaune's Burgundy Vineyards, Lyon Depart Dijon via the Route des Grand Crus to Beaune, celebrated capital of Burgundy wines,

3 nestled in the heart of France's finest vineyards. The facilities and cellars of many prominent wineries, large and small, are situated in Beaune itself. This walled city still displays its original battlements, ramparts, moats and a historical "old town." A walking tour takes you to the lively central square, with its gourmet cafes, fashionable clothes, and local wine stalls. Enjoy a tasting at one of the local cellars. At the Hotel-Dieu de Beaune, founded to help the poor and needy, see the original building converted to a museum - a perfect example of 15th-century French architecture. Then drive south to 2000-year-old Lyon at the meeting of the Rhone and Saone Rivers. Upon arrival, visit Place Bellecour, an enormous square in the heart of the city flanked by a famed statue of Louis XIV. Ascend Fouvière Hill to view the Roman amphitheater and magnificent gardens that overlook the city Overnight: Lyon DAY 6, Monday - Fields of Provence, French Riviera Heading south, pass the Olympic city of Grenoble at the foot of the French Alps on your way through the colorful landscapes of Provence, an inspiration for the early Impressionist painters. Here, Matisse, Van Gogh and Picasso created their masterpieces inspired by the region's incredible beauty and soft light. Travel past the olive groves and pine forests to the picturesque fortified town of Sisteron, nestled between the mountains and the sea, with its hilltop villages and impressive remains of 14th-century walls. Continue towards Cannes, the "star" of the dazzling French Riviera, famous for the International Film Festival, glitzy hotels, and beautiful people. Next, a visit to a French perfumery. Hear about the many ways to produce this major export and try some of the popular fragrances. The aromas are amazing! Tonight, at dinner, a taste of the French Riviera's specialties Overnight: French Riviera, Dinner DAY 7, Tuesday - Full Day in the French Riviera A full day to enjoy the countless extravagant delights of the Cote d'azur and your resort in the quintessential Mediterranean twin towns of Antibes and Juan-Les-Pins, known for their long sandy beaches and energetic nightlife. Relax on the beach, suntan at the pool, shop to your heart's content and just "people-watch" from a seaside café. Don't miss the optional excursion to the Picasso Museum* at Chateau Grimaldi, where he painted and lived. Tonight, see glamorous Monte Carlo's lights glisten as you travel along the magical seaside Corniche on the optional night tour *Please note: The Picasso Museum Tour will not be available for the Apr 25 departure Optional: Picasso Museum Tour (AM) Optional: Monte Carlo by Night (PM) Overnight: French Riviera DAY 8, Wednesday - Avignon, Pont du Gard, Carcassonne This morning journey on to Avignon, the "City of Popes" named after seven popes who reigned

4 there during the 1300s. Admire the Place de l'horlorge, the city's main square and the vast Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a fortress-like palace that once served as the papal residence. View the famed Bridge of Avignon, the city s landmark. Lunch is in the historic center on your own before traveling to the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River dating from 19 AD, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. End the day in the fairytale medieval town of Carcassonne. Enjoy dinner together at the hotel tonight Overnight: Carcassonne, Dinner DAY 9, Thursday - Carcassonne, Lourdes, Candlelit Procession This morning s walking tour takes you around Europe's best-restored ancient fortified city with its over fifty towers and turrets, still standing today. Stroll along the cobbled streets to the St. Nazaire Basilica, adorned with magnificent stained glass and intricate carvings. Browse the shops selling medieval wares, and perhaps taste some of the local peasant stews at a café in the medieval town. Your journey continues to Lourdes, in the foothills of the Pyrenees, that rose to international fame in 1858 when visions of the Virgin Mary were described at the Grotto of Massabielle. The town is now a major site of Roman Catholic pilgrimage and of reported miraculous healings. Witness the stirring candlelight procession tonight, which has unfailingly taken place since the 1800s. Dinner and overnight is in Lourdes Overnight: Lourdes, Dinner DAY 10, Friday - Visit Lourdes, Wine Tasting in St. Emilion, Bordeaux In Lourdes, visit the sacred church, sanctuary, and grotto where the apparitions took place and behold the healing water spring from the grotto, believed to possess healing properties. Time to reflect on your own before departing this holy city. Afterward, drive north through magnificent rolling landscapes to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. Emilion. In this fertile area, viticulture was first introduced by the Romans and further intensified in the Middle Ages. The tradition was carried on by the monk Emilion, who was the first to begin commercial wine production. Views of the city include Romanesque churches and fascinating historical ruins stretching along steep and narrow streets. Enjoy a wine tasting and then free time to wander on your own in this delightful town before continuing to Bordeaux. A lovely evening tonight! Dinner together at a local restaurant in Bordeaux accented by fabulous wines and local flavors Overnight: Bordeaux, Dinner DAY 11, Saturday - Tour of Bordeaux Morning tour of Bordeaux, on the crescent-shaped Garonne River, with its rich architectural and cultural heritage. Bordeaux is distinguished for the wines that bear its name, considered by connoisseurs to be amongst the best in the world. The city tour begins at the Place des Quinconces, the largest square in Western Europe with its mighty pillar centerpiece, the Girondist Column. In the historic Old Town, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, view the beautiful Grand Theatre built in 1780 and the Victory Arch, an amazing piece of Roman

5 architecture. The afternoon is yours to independently explore this beautiful city. Choose to stroll down Rue St. Catherine, a main pedestrian thoroughfare running through the historic district. This evening, an optional dinner in the Bordeaux countryside* will complete the day *Please note: The optional Bordeaux Countryside with Dinner tour may not be available for all departures. Optional: Bordeaux Countryside with Dinner (PM) Overnight: Bordeaux DAY 12, Sunday - Cognac Tasting, Chateau de Chenonceau, Loire Valley Depart Bordeaux to the enchanting town of Cognac, world-famous for the grape-based spirit produced here for over 300 years. Visit one of the cellars, hear about the history of cognac and enjoy a tasting! Onward to the very heart of the magnificent Loire Valley, brimming with treasures waiting to be discovered. For centuries, royalty and nobility built their magnificent chateaux here, inspired by the lush forests and rich farmlands. Tour the elegant Chateau de Chenonceau. Stretching across the river Cher, the chateau boasts a 197-foot gallery, built over a series of arches. Take some time to explore the extravagantly furnished rooms and formal gardens, added by the mistress of Henry II, Diane de Poitiers. Continue to Amboise, a delightful riverside town with an imposing castle, before continuing to the hotel for overnight. Enjoy dinner together tonight at the hotel Overnight: Loire Valley, Dinner DAY 13, Monday - Farewell in Paris Begin by crossing the Loire River and head back to the capital city of Paris for time at leisure to independently discover this city with its never-ending surprises. Perhaps join the optional tour of the Louvre Museum where you will enjoy the expertise of a professional guide. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner together in a Parisian bistro, including wine as you bid au revoir to your new-found friends and a fascinating journey through France Optional: Louvre Museum Tour (PM) Overnight: Paris, Dinner DAY 14, Tuesday - Depart France Bon Voyage! Transfer to the airport for your departure flight INCLUDES 12 nights accommodations Flights Hotel taxes, fees & service charges Hotel porterage

6 All transfers 18 meals: 12 breakfasts, 6 dinners with wine Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout Services of local guides in Paris, Dijon, Lyon, Carcassonne and Bordeaux Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring Gratuities for tour manager and coach driver EXCLUDES Travel insurance Visas Items of a personal nature Please note: disability access is limited during the tour, please consider this when making your booking. Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs, walking frames and motorised scooters may not be taken aboard motor coaches. Note: airport transfers are only included when the flights are ticketed by Gate 1 Travel. FACILITIES Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel, Paris: Medium sized rooms feature modern decor and amenities. Non-smoking rooms available upon request. The hotel is a short distance from the Eiffel tower, the Champs Elysses, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame and Montparnasse. The hotel is adjacent to the Metro Dupleix and the Gare Montparnasse train station is less than a half mile away. Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel, Paris: The rooms are decorated with contemporary style furnishings and decor. All rooms feature a range of amenities for a comfortable stay, including complimentary WiFi internet access, an in-room safe and air conditioning. The hotel is situated nearby the Seine river. The Eiffel Tower and the Champ de Mars are within a mile walk. The Charles Michels metro station is within a half mile of the hotel. Hotel Le Jura, Dijon: The rooms are decorated with wooden furnishings and contemporary style decor accents. All rooms feature amenities for an enjoyable stay, such as a television, a hairdryer and a private bathroom. The hotel is situated in Dijon's city center. The Dijon Cathedral is within a half mile walk, and the Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon is within a mile walk. Tram stops are nearby the hotel, and the Dijon Ville railway station is a within a half mile. Mercure Dijon Centre Clemenceau, Dijon: Guest rooms are spacious and well equipped with modern amenities. Many rooms overlook the auditorium or the garden. Disabled facilities are available upon request. The hotel is centrally located close to the historic town

7 center. Liberation Square, Darcy Square and Church of Notre Dame are all within a mile of the hotel. Radisson Blu Hotel, Lyon: Rooms are comfortable and decorated in contemporary decor with many modern amenities. Hotel is Europe's tallest hotel and rooms feature fine views of the city, alps, and old town. Hotel is well located in business district close to the historic city (.6 mile), a World UNESCO Heritage Site. Hotel is next to Part-Dieu shopping mall (200 yards) and like named metro and tram stations are only a few minutes walk. Hotel is also close to TGV (high-speed train). Many attractions are near: Rue Victor Hugo and Tete d'or Park are.5 mile while Opera House, St. Jean Cathedral, and Musee des Beaux Arts are 1 mile from the hotel AC Ambassadeur Antibes, Juan Les Pins: The rooms are decorated with contemporary style decor and furnishings. All rooms are equipped with amenities for a pleasant stay, including a balcony with views of either the town or the pool, WiFi access (surcharge) and air conditioning. The hotel is situated in the town of Juan Les Pins. The Gare de Juan Les Pins railway station is about a half mile away. Enjoy the sauna, indoor and outdoor pools and the hotel's private beach, which is a short walk away. Mercure Carcassonne Porte de la Cite Hotel, Carcassonne: The rooms are decorated with contemporary style decor and furnishings. All rooms offer amenities for a pleasant stay, including tea and coffee making facilities, an in-room safe and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. The hotel is within a half mile walk of the medieval city of Carcassonne and the Château Comtal. The Basilica of St. Nazaire and St. Celse is within a mile walk of the hotel. The Carcassonne railway station is located about a ten minute drive away. Gallia Et Londres, Lourdes: Guest rooms are charming and well equipped with modern amenities. Many rooms offer balconies with lovely views of the private grounds and Shrines. Disabled facilities are available upon request. The hotel is ideally situated within close proximity of the Sanctuaries in Lourdes. Le Musee de Lourdes, Sanctuary of our Lady of Lourdes and Musee Grevin are no more than a half mile away. Panorama Hotel, Lourdes: The guest rooms are fitted with comfortable furnishings and contemporary decor accents. All rooms feature amenities for a pleasant stay, such as a television with satellite channels, a telephone and an in-room safe. The hotel is within a half mile walk of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Basilica of Saint Pius X and Musee Grevin. The Gare de Lourdes railway station is within a mile walk of the hotel. Mercure Bordeaux Centre, Bordeaux: Fitted with contemporary design, guest rooms are spacious and comfortable with a wide range of modern amenities. Disabled facilities and non-smoking rooms are available upon request. The hotel is just a short walk from several city monuments and historic areas. Notre Dame Church, Pey Berland Tower and St. Seurin Basilica are within a half mile of the hotel.

8 Mercure Bordeaux Chateau Chartrons, Bordeaux: The guest rooms are decorated with modern decor and comfortable furnishings. All rooms are fitted with a variety of amenities, such as tea and coffee making facilities, an in-room safe and a minibar. The hotel is a nonsmoking hotel. The hotel is located in the old Bordeaux wine merchants district. The city center of Bordeaux, the Bordeaux Cathedral and the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux are about a fifteen minute drive away Novotel Amboise, Amboise: Decorated with a contemporary design, guest rooms are spacious and well equipped with modern amenities. Disabled facilities are available upon request. The hotel is comfortably situated in the heart of the Pays de la Loire, in the center of a landscaped park, opposite the Château d'amboise. Clos Luce is just within a mile of the hotel. TRAVEL PERIOD Departure dates in 2018: Apr: 4, 11, 18, 25 May: 2, 9, 16, 30 Jun: 6, 20 Jul: 4, 18 Aug: 1, 15, 29 Sep: 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct: 3, 10, 17, 24 BOOKING ESSENTIALS Once your MyDiscoveries Voucher has been purchased you will be contacted by the MyDiscoveries Reservations team will work with the tour operator to get you booked onto your preferred travel dates. If for any reason we are unable to book you onto your preferred dates please refer to the MyDiscoveries 30 Day Booking Guarantee to understand our refund policy. When booking in your travel dates, make sure you have your travel voucher number, traveller names and details of any special requirements (e.g. vegetarian etc)

9 The MyDiscoveries team will send an to you confirming all of your booking information. We recommend you purchase travel insurance as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. FINE PRINT Multiple departures in 2018 Subject to availability at time of booking for new bookings only All prices are subject to change at any time without notice Valid for sales unless sold out prior If you need to cancel your trip after travel has been confirmed, the travel operator will impose cancellation fees. In addition, MyDiscoveries will charge a $100 per person cancellation fee. We recommend taking out travel insurance as soon as you have booked your travel dates so you have protection against emergency cancellations that might be needed. Please note all our holidays are subject to availability at time of booking. Should your dates not be available please note the My Discoveries Booking Guarantee applies. The MyDiscoveries 30 Day Booking Guarantee means that if you can't get the travel dates you want within 30 days of buying the voucher, we'll give you your money back, no questions asked. Travel insurance not included, customers are advised to purchase appropriate cover. MyDiscoveries members receive 10% off any travel insurance policy- Simply mention the promo code: DISCOVERY10 on The MyDiscoveries 30 Day Booking Guarantee means that if you can't get the travel dates you want within 30 days of buying the voucher, we'll give you your money back, no questions asked. Promotional prices and offers valid from until or while stocks last. Note: While all due care has been taken in the preparation of this document, MyDiscoveries shall not be liable for any inaccuracies or omissions which may occur. This document has been prepared from material supplied by our Travel Suppliers and from their websites.mydiscoveries reserves the right to change information without notice and the most up to date version will always be found on Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

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