Cruising the Seine to Normandy 2020 July 7-15

Transcription

1 ARENU Presents Cruising the Seine to Normandy 2020 July 7-15 Discover the beauty of Paris before sailing the infamous Seine River to Honfleur. Included shore excursions make it easy to delve deep into the history of France. You will be seduced immediately by the charm and sweetness of Normandy life while cruising in comfort on the MS Renoir and enjoying refined French cuisine and unique entertainment. SAVE $200 pp! Book by June 20, 2019 Featuring 6-Nights MS Renoir Premier River Ship Included Shore Excursions with Radio Headsets Moored Nightly All Meals & Drinks Refined French Cuisine WiFi Onboard Entertainment & Activities Normandy WWII Tour Post-Cruise Night Paris Price ( pp dbl occupancy) Pricing (per person double occupancy) Main Deck: $4,100 $4,800 single Upper Deck: $4,300 $5,200 single Activity Level Passport Required Group Size: Maximum 20 For Information & Reservations Anne Kaiser annemkaiser@yahoo.com Tour Operated By

2 9-Day Cruising the Seine to Normandy Your Itinerary Day 1 Home Paris, France Transfer to the airport and check-in for the overnight flight to Paris. Day 2 Arrival in Paris, France Embarkation on the MS Renior Upon arrival in Paris, transfer to the MS Renoir and check-in. After some time getting settled, there is free time to explore Paris before meeting our ship s crew at a welcome Cocktail Reception. After, we enjoy our first meal of locally prepared French Cuisine. Day 3 Paris This morning, we discover Paris with a panoramic tour of this famous city and explore the mythical sites of the capital. Since its foundation as Lutèce on the Ile de la Cité, two thousand years of history have seen ecclesiastics, sovereigns and heads of state leave their mark on the city, building churches, erecting monuments and palaces, creating prestigious museums and outlining sumptuous perspectives. Its distinguished couturiers, perfumers and jewelers have strongly built up Paris' reputation for taste and elegance. A city of festivities, theaters and famous cabarets, Paris also glows from the sparkle and shine of its well-known revues. Our coach will take you past Bercy, the F. Mitterrand National Library, the Bastille, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, St. Germain, the Louvre, the Pyramid, the Opéra Garnier, Place Vendôme, the Concorde, the Champs Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Invalides, the Trocadéro and of course, the famous Eiffel Tower. Later, we return to the MS Renoir for an afternoon of leisure. After dinner, we sail the Seine for a night cruise of Paris. We remain moored in Paris tonight. Day 4 Paris Poissy - La Roche-Guyon We spend a relaxing morning sailing the Seine. After, we depart for our visit to the Château de Versailles guided by the MS Renoir Hostess. Listed as a World Heritage Site for thirty years, the Château de Versailles is considered to be one of the finest achievements of French art from the 17th century. Louis XIII's former hunting lodge was transformed and enlarged by his son Louis XIV, who fixed the Court and government of France here in Until the French Revolution, one king followed another, each embellishing the Château in his turn. When you arrive, your guide will take you through the King's Grand Apartment. These seven successive rooms were intended to serve as a Parade Apartment, that is to say for the sovereign's official business. This is why it was decorated with the most splendid riches and based on the model of Italian palaces of the time. During daytime, it was open to all, French and foreigners, who came to see the king, and it was reserved for the Court three evenings a week. Afterwards, you'll go through the Hall of Mirrors, known in the 17th century as the "Great Gallery" and which was where courtesans would wait, meet or just pass through every day. This 75m-long, 10m-wide and 12m-high hall was designed by Mansart in. The principal feature of this hall is the seventeen mirror-clad arches that reflect the seventeen arcaded windows that overlook the gardens. You tour will end with a visit to the Queen's Apartments, where the Queen would host the ladies of the Court when she rose in the morning and granted private audiences. After visiting the Château, you will still have a little free time to discover the fabulous formal French gardens created by André Le Notre for Louis XIV. We then return to the MS Renoir and cruise to La Roche-Guyon where we remain moored for the night. Day 5 La Roche-Guyon Rouen After a morning of sailing, we leave on foot for a guided tour of Rouen. The historic center of the city and its famous cathedral are only a 5- minute walk from the ship. Stretched along the Seine, Rouen is Normandy's cultural, historical, and gastronomical capital. The exceptionally complex Notre-Dame Cathedral is renowned for the juxtaposition of all the Gothic periods - especially on the facade, which Monet painted time and again, reflecting its glory in different lights. Destroyed during the Viking invasions in 841 and, partially, in 1944, by allied bombardments, the cathedral continues to be a perpetually evolving structure. We'll then head to the market place where Joan of Arc was burned alive for heresy in The Gros-Horloge, or Great Clock, is one of the most emblematic monuments in the city. The Gothic belfry has housed the communal bells and clock of the city since its construction at the end of the 14th century. Finally, we'll visit the Saint Joan of Arc Church. Located on the Old Market Place, this large monument's construction ended in 1979 and was built both in honor of the Saint as well as the heroine celebrated by the French on the second Sunday in May. The evening is free to explore Rouen after a delicious dinner. Day 6 Rouen Duclair Caudebec-en-Caux We'll set off by coach from Duclair in the company of our local guide. The excursion begins with a visit of the Jumièges Abbey. Built in 654 when Christianity arrived in the region, and subsequently destroyed by the Vikings, the abbey was restored in the 11th century by their descendants. With the arrival of the Romantic period, the abbey became extremely well-known thanks to Victor Hugo who described it as the "most beautiful ruins in all of France. During our visit, we'll also discover the cloisters and the ruins of the Church of Saint Peter before visiting the Abbey of Saint Wandrille or Wandregisel (exterior only), a highly spiritual monument founded in the same century.

3 9-Day Cruising the Seine to Normandy Your Itinerary (continued) The wonderful classical architecture of this abbey blends with the magnificence of its medieval heritage in perfect harmony. Unlike Jumièges, a congregation of Benedictine monks settled in this abbey in 1931 and has remained to this day bringing the community to a substantial number. We'll return to the boat and have our gala evening and dinner as we cruise toward Honfluer tonight. Day 7 Honfleur Today, we go with our guide and set off on a walking tour. Honfleur, the cradle of Impressionism, is located at the mouth of the Seine as it flows into the English Channel. Untouched by the passage of time, this small port has kept the landmarks of its rich past making it one of the most visited towns in France. We'll begin our tour at the Vieux Bassin, one of the most charming sites in the city. The narrow houses squeezed against each other are quite a unique sight. Next, we'll see Saint Catherine's Church, the largest wooden church in France. It was listed as a historical monument in 1879 and has been the subject of scrupulous research by many archaeologists and historians. We'll then head for the original 17th-century Salt Halls (Greniers à Sel), now used for exhibitions, conferences and concerts. Our tour will finish with a visit to Saint Léonard Church. Destroyed during the Hundred Years War, it was rebuilt at the end of the 15th and beginning of the 16th centuries-only to be partially burned down again during the Wars of Religion. In the afternoon, we set-off on our second excursion with our local guide. The first stop is Deauville, the most glamourous coastal French city, symbolic of elegance, prestige and sophistication. Enjoy a stroll along the famous floorboards that were built in 1923 along the beach, allowing women to enjoy the seaside without spoiling their dresses. Discover the casino (exterior view). Continuation by coach for the delightful setting of the Breuil castle. Located in a lush green setting at the center of the Pays d'auge, this castle is one of the most beautiful examples of the architectural heritage of this region. Today, the Breuil castle is also home to a prestigious distillery where you will get the chance to discover the various steps to making Calvados before tasting it. The evening is at leisure to enjoy Honfleur. Day 8 Honfleur Normandy - Paris We have one last breakfast on the MS Renoir before disembarking. After, we board our coach for a tour of the Normandy Beaches focusing on the WWII history of this region. Later, we continue to Paris. Upon arrival, we check in and have some free time for shopping or exploration before our farewell dinner (optional). Day 9 Paris - Home We transfer to the airport and check-in for our flight. Upon arrival in the USA, transfer home. The MS Renoir Year built: 1991 & Refurbished 2018 Length: 110m Width: 11.5m Cabins: 54 Guest Capacity: 104 Onboard Amenities: Lounge/bar with large picture windows and dance floor, public patio, restaurant serving all passengers in one sitting, wide sun deck with chaise lounges & boutique. Upper Deck: 20 Cabins: 19 double-occupancy, & 1 for Reduced Mobility Main Deck: 34 Cabins: 31 double-occupancy & 3 single Cabin Amenities: All cabins have private bathroom with shower, hair dryer, safe, desk/storage/mini bar area, flat-screen satellite TV, cabin-to-cabin phone, radio, reversible airconditioning, 220v electricity & complimentary Wi-Fi. The beds face the window offering stunning views.

4 9-Day Cruising the Seine to Normandy The Details Roundtrip International Airfare Airport Transfers* 6-Nights Onboard the MS Renoir Welcome Reception Onboard Entertainment & Activities All Shore Excursions (per itinerary) with Headsets Pier/Airport Transfers in France All Meals & Drinks Onboard the MS Renoir Complimentary WiFi Multilingual Crew Normandy Beaches WWII Tour Tours of Distinction Tour Director 1 Post Cruise Night Accommodation Paris with Breakfast & Baggage Handling Gratuities for Tour Director, Drivers & MS Renoir Crew All Port Charges & Taxes *Airport Transfers Complimentary Within 50 Miles of Departure Airport. PAYMENT SCHEDULE: Deposit: $500 per person due at time of reservation + Optional Travel Protection 2 nd Payment: $2,000 per person due February 8, 2020 Final Payment: March 24, 2020 OPTIONAL TRAVEL PROTECTION: Optional Travel Protection cost per person, double occupancy: Main Deck: Double Occupancy: $242 Single Occupancy: $319 Upper Deck: Double Occupancy: $276 Single Occupancy: $353 Categories not listed above or single supplement rates may increase the cost of your Travel Protection. It is advised that you submit the optional Travel Protection payment with your initial deposit. The Plan Document will be provided to you with your cruise confirmation packet. Read this document carefully as it provides complete details of the plan, including benefits and exclusions. IF CANCELLING FOR A MEDICAL REASON, YOU MUST SEE YOUR DOCTOR AND PROVIDE SUPPORTING MEDICAL DOCUMENTATION WHEN SUBMITTING A CLAIM. CANCELLATION POLICY: A cancellation fee of $ per person + non-refundable tour expenses will be charged for any cancellation received from time of booking to 121 days prior to departure. A cancellation fee of 50% of the total tour cost + nonrefundable tour expenses will be charged for cancellations days prior to departure. A cancellation fee of 100% of the total tour cost will be charged for cancellations received 90-0 days prior to departure. arenu.org Disclaimer: We are in the business that plans far ahead of the tour s start date which can, at times, leave us with a change of itinerary, attraction, meal or accommodation. Due to any unforeseen circumstances, Tours of Distinction, Inc., must reserve the right to change the booked itinerary, attractions, restaurants or accommodations. In such an event, the alternative will be of equal or greater value.

5 2020 Cruise RESERVATION FORM One Form Per Person Name*: First Middle Last * Important: Name listed here MUST match the name on your passport Address: ARENU Cruising the Seine to Normandy July 7 July 15, 2020 Europe CRUISE DETAILS Stateroom Type: Main Deck Upper Deck Occupancy: Single Double Travel Partner/Roommate(s): GUEST DETAILS Date of Birth: City, State: Zip Code: Phone #: Address: Cell #: Passport issue date: Passport issued in what country: Passport Exp Date**: Passport #: Special Needs (wheelchair, diet, handicap, etc.): ~~Please note that we try to accommodate special preference requests (i.e. specific staterooms, specific deck, adjoining staterooms) when possible, but we cannot guarantee them. PAYMENT DETAILS Mail this form, a copy of your Passport & deposit to: Tours of Distinction (See Address Below) *Please check here if you will be applying for a Passport renewal or applying for a Passport. **Note: The U.S. Department of State recommends your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the last date of travel. Optional Deluxe Travel Protection Plan: I would like to: Accept or Decline the optional travel protection. I am paying by: Check (Payable to Tours of Distinction) or Credit Card Total Deposit for the Cruise Portion: $ Total Optional Travel Protection Insurance: $ Total Amount Enclosed: $ Credit Card Information: Visa MasterCard Discover Card #: Name on Card: Expiration Date: CID #: 3 or 4 numbers located on back of card I acknowledge that I have read the Disclaimer and Cancellation Policies on the reverse of this page and understand all information given to me. Guest s Signature: PLEASE MAIL ENTIRE RESERVATION FORM & PAYMENT TO: ANNE KAISER ARENU Bow Lane, Cromwell, CT Date: For Office Use Only Date Received: Cabin Type: Cabin #: Reservation #:

6 Disclaimer and Cancellation Policies RESPONSIBILITY: Tours of Distinction and its affiliates act only as an agent for the passenger with respect to transportation and hotels and exercise every care possible. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, delay, loss, accident or irregularity in connection with the services of any airplane, ship, motor-coach, train or other conveyance used in carrying out the arrangements of the tour. We cannot accept responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, acts of God, or by other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to make alterations to this published itinerary. Tours of Distinction reserves the right to cancel the tour prior to departure, in which case the entire payment will be refunded without further obligation on our part. No refund will be made for any unused portion of the tour. PAYMENT SCHEDULE: Deposit: $500 per person due at time of reservation + Optional Travel Protection 2 nd Payment: $2,000 per person due February 8, 2020 Final Payment: March 24, 2020 OPTIONAL TRAVEL PROTECTION: Optional Group Deluxe Travel Protection cost per person: Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Main Deck: $242 pp $319 Upper Deck: $276 $353 Categories not listed above or single supplement rates may increase the cost of your Travel Protection. It is advised that you submit the optional Travel Protection payment with your initial deposit. The Plan Document will be provided to you with your cruise confirmation packet. Read this document carefully as it provides complete details of the plan, including benefits and exclusions. IF CANCELLING FOR A MEDICAL REASON, YOU MUST SEE YOUR DOCTOR AND PROVIDE SUPPORTING MEDICAL DOCUMENTATION WHEN SUBMITTING A CLAIM. CANCELLATION POLICY: A cancellation fee of $ per person + non-refundable tour expenses will be charged for any cancellation received from time of booking to 121 days prior to departure. A cancellation fee of 50% of the total tour cost + non-refundable tour expenses will be charged for cancellations days prior to departure. A cancellation fee of 100% of the total tour cost will be charged for cancellations received 90-0 days prior to departure. Passports are required for all International Travel Passports need to be obtained no later than the final payment date of the tour. Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis.