Cruising in France’s Burgundy region is an experience that rivals the best cruises in the world. While the boat I was on, Europeans Waterways’ La Belle Epoque, was slow going down the French canals, the scenery and world class service meant drinks within moments of asking, biking on the banks of the shallow canal, lounging […]
Barge Cruising in France’s Burgundy Region Read More »
The Dordogne Valley lies just south of France’s center, a region characterized by its ancient geological majesty. It is rural France at its best: tiny villages, forgotten by the march of time, divine wines produced from local grapes, gourmet specialties, such as truffles and duck, and breathtaking countryside. But the place which stands out among
High Above and Far Below: Unforgettable Places in the Dordogne Valley Read More »
The French Alps are synonymous with great ski breaks. With legendary resorts like Chamonix, home to Mont Blanc, this breathtaking area of Europe lures thousands of winter adrenaline junkies each year. Â It is a region famed for extreme ski runs and luxury price tags, so for the novice skier, heading to the Grand-Massif can feel
First-Time Skiing in the French Alps Read More »
Some travelers scoff at visiting popular attractions, but this attitude often results in missing out on important pieces of history and culture. Take Paris and the well-known Shakespeare and Company bookshop for example. This independent bookstore on Paris’s left bank was originally founded in 1919 by Sylvia Beach, and became a popular gathering space for
Shakespeare and Company: Paris Bookstore and Literary Landmark Read More »
Shrove Tuesday was a much looked forward to annual event in our house. Dad would make the pancake mix and get the pan greased and ready, then we’d all have a go at making our own. It was messy and great fun. And when we were done we’d squeeze on some lemon juice, add a
Paris Sweet to Savory: Crepes Anyone? Read More »
Some travelers might be too intimidated to rent a car during international travel, but once you get over those first few nervous minutes (hopefully in a parking lot and not a major highway) the freedom of a car reveals a depth of culture you might not find otherwise. This is true in France, and specifically
Provence at Your Pace: A Driving Tour Read More »
One of the most dramatic views of Paris is that from butte Montmartre at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, better known as Sacre Coeur. Montmartre is a bit quieter and less crowded than other areas of the city, particularly on a weekday. Don’t mistake the more relaxed atmosphere with a lack of energy—Montmartre has
Destination Paris: Sacre Coeur Read More »
A trip to Paris, particularly for first-time visitors, must include a trip to the Louvre. Yes, the Louvre is enormous, and even if you put in a full day you won’t be able to see everything, but it is The Louvre. Each step you take brings you past yet another spectacular masterpiece, and you will
Must-See Paris: The Louvre Read More »
The Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, museums, culture, gardens, and art. . . and the list goes on. They are, after all, the usual suspects on any visitors list to Paris. And rightly so. In fact, putting Paris and sewers together would seem to be a bit of an oxymoron. But stick with me.
A Different View of Paris: Going Underground Read More »
Alcohol and holidays make perfect partners so why not base a whole trip around the lovely stuff? Wine connoisseurs are quick to praise the wine that comes out of the South of France, and with the scenery and weather that is often lacking in the more northerly part of the country, it is the perfect
Wine Tours in the South of France Read More »