A recent visit there as part of Gateway Destinations Belle Provence women’s only tour proved what a delightful afternoon these two tastings are!  Spending a morning exploring villages and enjoying the colorful autumn scenery made for a perfect day in Provence.  After a delicious lunch in a village café, we ventured to this beautiful area in the Rhone River valley.  Not only were the tastings delicious, but there was an informative explanation and demonstration of how their chocolates are made. 

Join us next May (or October) for our Belle Provence, France’s Southern Jewel tour as we return to this rich region to explore, taste and delight in all that Provence has to offer.

The first day started out just that – mid-60’s and sunny. However, a strong wind known locally as the “mistral” started to blow through the Rhone Valley the next day. What’s a tour leader to do with weather like that? Our expert local guide, Eric, had the perfect solution! We boarded a beautiful boat in Avignon and cruised the Rhone River for three relaxing hours to Arles to enjoy the scenery, live music and delicious 4-course lunch while protected from the elements. Our guide met us in Arles where we did a guided walking tour of this intriguing city with its ancient Roman influence still visible today. Our afternoon was rounded out by a countryside visit where essential oils are extracted (such as lavender) and sold worldwide. All in all, it was a perfect day in Provence in spite of the uncharacteristic weather.

Being a small group allowed our women’s tour to be flexible and adjust our itinerary when needed – a great way to travel!

Not only is Provence known for its abundant produce, but also truffles, perfume, soap, olives and olive oil, honey, linens, Santon dolls, wonderful cheeses and a wonderful variety of red, white and rosé wines.  We’ll do our best to sample all of these products as we wander through village after village in this hypnotically charming countryside.  Along the way, our bi-lingual local guide will share his knowledge of French art, culture, history and architecture of this rich area. 

Hmm…I’m already thinking of my Provence journey in the spring of 2010 to share even more treasures of this region of southern France to ladies looking to travel in an extraordinary way.  Watch for our 2010 schedule of women-only tours at www.gateway-destinations.com

Having just spent 10 days in Paris leading a private tour, I found that getting around Paris was much easier than normal.  We were only disappointed by a few shop or restaurant closures, but Paris is full of lots of other choices.  We took advantage of the long days with pleasant evenings and scheduled some of our activities late in the day to make sure we covered everything we planned.  From visiting museums and beautiful cathedrals, cruising on the Seine River, enjoying the Moulin Rouge, fine dining, exploring the flea market, and delighting in delicious bakeries, tea houses, and chocolate shops, we experienced a generous slice of what Paris has to offer.

Be prepared for lots of walking as Paris is best explored on foot (or bicycle), even though public transportation is readily available and reasonably priced.   Concentrating on one area per day will reduce the amount of walking required, however, and allow you to explore an area in-depth. Paris has recently introduced a wonderful system of inexpensive bike rentals throughout the city where you pick up at one location and drop off at a different location.  Outdoor cafés are easily found throughout Paris in summer and are an inviting place to watch the world go by while sipping a delicious espresso or relaxing glass of wine.  Even with all the architectural beauty and rich history that Paris exudes, enjoying a few relaxing moments in a neighborhood bistro or park remains one of my favorite ways to embrace Paris and experience la belle vie!

The captain and crew expertly navigated the elegant and new River Beatrice from port to port, traversing through numerous locks. As Gateway Destinations is always striving to expand our knowledge base and keep abreast of vacation venues and supplier products, I was excited to join this 8-day cruise through four countries – Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Hungary – including the beautiful wine-producing Wachau Valley. The ship was comfortable and beautiful, with excellent service and great food. Our cruise manager and concierge were particularly knowledgeable and helpful. I would highly recommend Uniworld Cruises and this itinerary to travelers seeking an intimate and relaxing journey through this area of Europe.