GCCL TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE
The Seine: Paris to Normandy 2021 Learn how to personalize your experience on this vacation
Grand Circle Cruise Line® The Leader in River Cruising Worldwide 1 Grand Circle Cruise Line ® 347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
At last, the world is opening up again for curious travel lovers like you and me. Soon, you’ll once again be discovering the places you’ve dreamed of. In the meantime, the enclosed Grand Circle Cruise Line Travel Planning Guide should help you keep those dreams vividly alive.
Before you start dreaming, please let me reassure you that your health and safety is our number one priority. As such, we’re requiring that all Grand Circle Cruise Line travelers, ship crew, Program Directors, and coach drivers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to departure. Our new, updated health and safety protocols are described inside.
The journey you’ve expressed interest in, The Seine: Paris to Normandy River Cruise Tour, will be an excellent way to resume your discoveries. It takes you into the true heart of France, thanks to our groups of 38-45 travelers. Plus, our French Program Director will reveal their country’s secret treasures as only an insider can. You can also rely on the seasoned team at our regional office in Lyon, who are ready to help 24/7 in case any unexpected circumstances arise.
Throughout your explorations, you’ll meet local people and gain an intimate understanding of the regional culture. Enjoy a sweet treat and a morning of lively conversation about life in rural France when you join a family for a Home-Hosted Visit near Rouen; and as you cruise the Seine, you’ll be joined onboard by local experts for personal demonstrations of French cooking, baking, and wine- tasting, for in-depth introductions to these quintessentially French traditions. Plus, a portion of our proceeds goes toward the charitable efforts of Grand Circle Foundation: inside you’ll also see how your travel dollar helps make the world a better place.
We understand that no two people are the same. That’s why more than 80% of our travelers take advantage of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 55% of travelers who extend their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to Paris, France or Loire Valley, France, post-trip extension to Brittany & Mont St. Michel, France or London, England, or a combination of these extensions to your French vacation.
I hope you find this Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Travel Counselors at 1-800-221-2610.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis Vice Chairman Overseas Adventure Travel
P.S. For further peace of mind, please know that we are EXTENDING our Risk-Free Booking Policy through 12/31/21. Learn more at www.gct.com/riskfree-booking.
2 WHAT’S INSIDE
TRIP SUMMARY
It’s Included ...... 4
Departure Dates and Prices ...... 5
Deck Plans...... 6
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience ...... 8
DETAILED DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY ...... 9
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION ...... 41
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements ...... 43
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health ...... 45
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Guidelines ...... 48
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch ...... 53
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits ...... 57
Climate & Average Temperatures ...... 63
Aboard Your Ship: Cabin Features, Dining & Services ...... 66
About Your Destinations: Culture, Etiquette & More...... 71
Demographics & History ...... 84
Resources: Suggested Reading & Movies ...... 90
Health & Safety Measures – Vaccines Required ...... 94
MAP ...... 95
3 The Seine: Paris to Normandy
France: Paris, Conflans, Vernon, Giverny, Les Andelys, Rouen, Honfleur, Normandy beaches Countries: 1 | Cities: 8 | 10 Nights Aboard Our Privately Owned 120-Passenger M/S Bizet
M/S Bizet, Les Andelys, France
Experience the elegance of the Seine, from Gothic cathedrals and medieval fortifications to fine French cuisine
$ IT’S INCLUDED 13 days from 3395 Including international airfare International airfare, airport transfers, government taxes, fees, and airline from New York or Newark fuel surcharges, unless you choose to make your own air arrangements Travel from only $262 per day Accommodations for 10 nights aboard the M/S Bizet with wireless Internet access in all common areas and cabins, and 1 night at the Novotel Convention & Wellness Roissy CDG or similar 12 days from $2495 River Cruise Tour only 30 meals: 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners—including 1 meal in a local restaurant—plus all onboard house beer, wine, and soft drinks Travel from only $208 per day 8 included tours with personal headsets and 5 Exclusive Discovery Series events—French language lesson • Impressionists conversation • Home- Single Supplement: $5 95 Hosted Visit • Cooking demonstration • French cheese tasting MAXIMIZE YOUR Local Program Directors, a Grand Circle Cruise Line exclusive: Our DISCOVERIES & VALUE dedicated experts are with you and your group of 38-45 travelers from beginning to end to provide an insider’s knowledge and perspective OPTIONAL EXTENSION S Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach drivers all with FREE Single Supplements All port charges Paris, France Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per person, including tips 3 nights pre-trip from $745 Loire Valley, France 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next trip 4 nights pre-trip from $995 Brittany & Mont St. Michel, France 4 nights post-trip from $995 To get a richer view of the Included Features on this trip, London, England watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.gct.com/sen2021 4 nights post-trip from $995
The Seine: Paris to Normandy 4 THE SEINE: PARIS TO NORMANDY RISK-FREE BOOKING POLICY: RESERVE WITH CONFIDENCE—NOW THROUGH 12/31/21 2021 DATES & PRICES We will waive any change fees if you transfer to another departure date for any reason—up until 24 hours prior to departure. To calculate your trip price with airfare, add deck price to air add-ons below. See details at www.gct.com/riskfree-booking.
JULY; AUG 4, AUG 24; APR 17, MAY 16, 15; OCT OCT 3, CABIN CATEGORY APR 6 26 MAY 7 27 JUNE 23 14 SEPTEMBER NOV 3 NOV 12
A Soprano Deck $4095 $4395 $5095 $5195 $4695 $4195 $4395 $5395 $3295 $3095 B(Top Deck w/balcony) $3895 $4195 $4895 $4995 $4495 $3995 $4195 $5195 $3095 $2895
C Alto Deck $3695 $3995 $4695 $4795 $4295 $3795 $3995 $4995 $2895 $2695 D(Lower Deck w/window) $3295 $3595 $4295 $4395 $3895 $3495 $3695 $4595 $2695 $2495
APRIL; MAY 7; SEPTEMBER- AIR ADD-ONS NOVEMBER MAY 16, 27; JUNE-AUGUST New York, Newark $900 $1100 Baltimore, Boston $1000 $1200 Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Miami, Portland, $1100 $1300 Washington, DC Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tampa $1200 $1400 Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis, Orlando, Phoenix $1300 $1500
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details. SEN2021
Prices are per person. Airfare prices include government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges. Standard Terms & Conditions apply, please visit our website: www.gct.com/tc. Every effort has been made to produce this information accurately. We reserve the right to correct errors. Low-cost Single Supplement is $595 on your main trip & FREE on all extensions.
For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.gct.com/sen2021pricing
SAVE UP TO 10% WITH OUR GOOD BUY PLAN SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL The earlier you reserve your departure and pay in full, the more New travelers you refer will instantly save $100, and you’ll earn you’ll save—up to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price. increasing rewards—up to a FREE trip!
For details, visit www.gct.com/gbd For details, visit www.gct.com/va
Publication Date 1/7/21 1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/sen2021 5 Your Seine river ship
Sail aboard our privately owned 120-passenger M/S Bizet Designed specifically for traversing the Seine River, the M/S Bizet provides a relaxing and comfortable cruising experience between Paris and Honfleur. This ship carries three groups of up to 38-45 American travelers, each accompanied by a dedicated local Program Director.
Shipboard Features
• Dining room with single, open seating: Enjoy fine • Sun Deck: Sit outside and enjoy the view as your ship cuisine in your ship’s dining room. navigates the Seine’s gently winding waters.
• Bar & lounge: Relax with friends old and new. • English-speaking crew: Our crew is dedicated to your comfort, and all shipboard announcements are made • Complimentary beverages: Enjoy house beer and in English. house wine—as well as soft drinks—at any time of day while onboard. • Smoking/non-smoking: Smoking is not permitted indoors, but is permitted on the Sun Deck. • Complimentary wireless Internet access: Connect online in cabins and common areas. Please note: Wireless • Shipboard security: State-of-the-art, shipboard radar Internet access may be limited at certain points throughout ensures safe navigation and night and in low visibility; your River Cruise. safe docking space; onboard security staff; state-of- the-art fire safety system; and secured entryway doors.
6 M/S BIZET
RESTAURANT BAR LOUNGE E
RECEPTION LIBRARY SOPRANO DECK
E
ALTO DECK
Registry: Malta International crew: 33 Number of cabins: CABIN CATEGORIES Size: 366x38 ft Entered service: 2002 60—all outside A B C D Passenger Decks: 3 Elevator: Yes capacity: 120
CABIN FEATURES
• Outside cabins with a river view
• Cabin sizes are approximately 160-sq.-ft. Soprano Deck cabins include a private 16-sq.-ft. balcony with table and chairs
• Two stationary twin beds converted to sofas each day, and back to beds each evening
• All cabins have a wardrobe and a drawer, and luggage storage space under the beds
• Private bath with shower, hair dryer, shampoo, and soap
• Individual heating & air conditioning controls
• Flat-screen color TV & radio, including CNN, movies, and a “view from the bow” camera looking from the front of your ship
• Direct-dial telephone; emergency call buttons
• In-room safe Admire the scenery along the Seine from your comfortable • All non-smoking cabins cabin.
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com
7 Freedom to Personalize Your Experience
Your Choice, Your Trip, Your Way
Extending the length of your stay in a destination can improve your overall travel experience—and allow you to seek out even more eye-opening cultural interactions. Your local Program Director will help to ensure you’re getting the personalized experiences you’re looking for. In fact, 85% of our travelers are personalizing their experience in more than 85 countries. Call us at 1-800-221-2610 to discuss personalizing your River Cruise Tour today or visit us online at www.gct.com/personalize-sen2021.
Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of our travelers Cabin Upgrade: Choose the onboard experience choose to take a pre- or post-trip extension that’s right for you See more of the world and maximize your value by Perhaps you’d like to be close to the elevator, dining taking advantage of your already-included airfare. On room, or even your friend’s cabin—we’ll help you this River Cruise Tour, you can choose between Paris, select the ship cabin or deck category that works France; Loire Valley, France; Brittany & Mont St. best for you. Michel, France; or London, England. Air Options: More than 50% of our travelers “Break Away” Options: 30% of our travelers choose customize their flights to arrive early or stay late in their destination We make every effort to provide you with non-stop Before or after your main River Cruise Tour or trip flights and acceptable connection times to and extension, “break away” anywhere you’d like to go to from your destination. You also have several other do more exploring entirely on your own. ways you can personalize your air itinerary, including choosing your departure city and airline, upgrading Back-to-Back Trips: 90% of our travelers who your seat, and more. combined two vacations rated it excellent Save $250 per person when you reserve two trips right after one another. One of the most common River Cruise Tours travelers combine with this one is Cruising Burgundy & Provence to the Cote d’Azur.
Panorama featuring the Eiff el Tower, Paris, France
8
The Seine: Paris to Normandy 2021 13-Day River Cruise Tour
EXTEND YOUR TRIP PRE-TRIPS Paris, France OR Loire Valley, France POST-TRIPS Brittany & Mont St. Michel, France OR London, England
Your Day-to-Day Itinerary
9 GRAND CIRCLE CRUISE LINE
Grand Circle Cruise Line is the leader in river cruising worldwide—offering American travelers unique experiences at unbeatable value aboard our privately owned fleet of 86- to 162-passenger ships. With each River Cruise, you’ll enjoy unmatched discoveries, leisurely pacing, and the freedom to personalize your experience. Plus, Grand Circle Cruise Line is the only cruise company with expert, resident Program Directors who accompany you throughout your trip, enhancing your exploration with the kind of insight and passion that only a local can provide.
YOUR GRAND CIRCLE PROGRAM DIRECTOR TOUR
During your Grand Circle vacation, you’ll have reliable assistance available at all times from an on-site local Grand Circle Cruise Line Program Director throughout your trip, who will serve as your trip experience leader. He or she is fluent in English and can give you an inside perspective on your destinations. You will also be supported along the way by local tour guides, who lead you expertly through particular sites and cities.
Many Program Directors are graduates of professional education programs for travel guides. In addition, they receive specialized training directly from Grand Circle, based on what we’ve learned from past travelers about how to make the trip most enjoyable. Your Program Director offers both a deep knowledge of the region and a commitment to make this a very pleasant, informative, and rewarding travel experience for you.
He or she will provide sightseeing trips, handle all travel details, reserve optional tours you choose to take, oversee your Exclusive Discovery Series events, and provide any other assistance you may need.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
10 INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
International airfare, airport transfers, Local Program Directors, a Grand Circle government taxes, fees, and airline fuel Cruise Line exclusive: Our dedicated experts surcharges, unless you choose to make your are with you and your group of 38-45 travelers own air arrangements from beginning to end to provide an insider’s knowledge and perspective Accommodations for 10 nights aboard the M/S Bizet with wireless Internet access in all Gratuities for local guides and common areas and cabins, and 1 night at the motorcoach drivers Novotel Convention & Wellness Roissy CDG All port charges or similar Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per 30 meals: 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 person, including tips dinners—including 1 meal in a local restaurant—plus all onboard house beer, wine, 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward and soft drinks your next trip
8 included tours with personal headsets and 5 Exclusive Discovery Series events—French language lesson • Impressionists conversation • Home-Hosted Visit • Cooking demonstration • French cheese tasting
WHAT THIS TRIP IS LIKE
GROUP SIZE » Travelers using walkers, crutches, or other » This trip has a group size of 38-45 travelers mobility aids must travel with a companion with our local Program Director exclusive to who can assist them Grand Circle » We reserve the right for Program Directors to restrict participation, or in some
PACING circumstances send travelers home, if their » 12 days, with 10 nights aboard the M/S Bizet, limitations impact the group’s experience and a 1 single-night hotel stay TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS » Unpaved roads, hilly terrain, and uneven » Walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in walking surfaces, including slippery 2-3 hours of physical activities each day, cobblestones, stairs, and sand including stairs » Travel by 120-passenger river ship, and » Not accessible for travelers using 49-seat coach wheelchairs or scooters » Changes in water-level depths may require adjustments to your itinerary
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
11 CLIMATE » Daytime temperatures range from 50-80°F during cruising season » July-August are the warmest months » March and November weather can be unpredictable and change quickly
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
12 The Seine: Paris to Normandy
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION 3 nights in Paris, France
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 4 Paris • Highlights of the Louvre Optional Tour Day 2 Paris, France Day 5 Paris • Join main trip Day 3 Paris • French Cabaret Dinner & Show optional tour
OR 4 nights in Loire Valley, France
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 4 Blois • Optional Château de Chenonceau tour Day 2 Arrive Roissy, France Day 5 Blois • Amboise • Winery tour Day 3 Roissy • Blois Day 6 Blois • Join main trip
Day 1 Depart U.S. to your ship by motorcoach—an hour drive or so, depending on traffic. If you began your Depart today on your flight to Paris, France. discoveries early with our optional pre-trip Please refer to your individual air itinerary for extension to Paris, France, or Loire Valley, France, exact departure and arrival times. you will join your main group today.
Day 2 Arrive in Paris, France • Embark ship Upon arrival, unpack, settle in, and explore your ship. You have the balance of the day to • Destination: Paris do as you wish after your overseas flight. Your • Included Meals: Dinner Program Director will be leading an optional • Accommodations: M/S Bizet 30-minute orientation walk of the area, Morning/Afternoon: You’ll arrive in Paris this departing at 1:45pm or 3:45pm depending on morning or in the early afternoon. Please refer your arrival. Then at around 5pm, return to to your individual air itinerary for exact arrival the ship for a welcome briefing. During this times. A Grand Circle representative will meet briefing, which will last around 45 minutes, you at the airport and assist with your transfer you will introduce yourself and review your
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
13 itinerary in more detail (including any changes Wander down its famous passages, including that may need to occur). Your Program Le Grand Cerf and Galerie Vivienne, or head Director will also discuss logistics, safety and to Place de la Republique where you can stroll emergency procedures, and answer questions all the way down to La Vilette along the Canal you may have. Saint-Martin and Canal de l’Ourcq. Removed from the more touristic areas of Paris, rue Before dinner, gather around 6pm for a Montorgueil offers travelers a unique look Welcome Drink onboard in the lounge and inside a Parisian’s daily experience. your first Port Talk—a nightly feature of your River Cruise, designed as an opportunity for • How to get there: Around a 10- to 15-min- your Program Directors to prepare you for the ute taxi ride from the ship, about $15 USD following day’s discoveries. one way. • Hours: 7am-2am, Monday-Friday; 8am- Dinner: Around 7pm, onboard in the ship’s 2am, Saturday. dining room. Our ship’s dining staff will each • Cost: Free. be assigned to only a few tables, allowing he • Explore Père Lachaise cemetery: Situated or she to quickly learn your name, as well as in Ménilmontant, the 20th arrondissement your meal preferences. As with all the dinners of Paris, the Père Lachaise cemetery is the during your cruise, the atmosphere is relaxed, largest in France—a sprawling 110 acres and the dress code is smart casual, and you are free containing 70,000 burial plots. With more to sit at whichever table you please. You’ll be than 3.5 million visitors annually, it is also offered a choice of appetizer, soup, entrée, and the most visited necropolis in the world. dessert—including American favorites—and Venture along its the green paths, and you complimentary house beer, house wine, and will encounter the final resting places of soft drinks. (Half-portions are available upon famous men and women including 40 singers, request.) 40 composers, and 75 painters. As you stroll, Evening: You have the freedom to spend the you may stumble across such luminaries rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps as Honoré de Balzac, Frédéric Chopin, Jim you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in Morrison, Edith Piaf, Camille Pissarro, and the lounge. Oscar Wilde—just to name a few. It is a serene and fascinating look into both French and Freedom To Explore: During your two full days international culture. in Paris, you have the freedom to explore this • How to get there: Around a 20- to iconic city on your own during your free time. 30-minute taxi ride from the ship, about Below are a few recommended options for $30 USD one way. independent explorations: • Hours: 8am-6pm Monday-Friday; • Head to the rue Montorgueil for a taste of 8:30am-6pm Saturday; 9am-6pm everyday Parisian life: Located in both the 1st Sundays and public holidays. and 2nd districts of Paris, rue Montorgueil is a • Cost: Free. lively area peppered with restaurants, bistros, • Uncover the natural delights of the Jardins cafés, bars, bakeries, and specialty stores du Luxembourg: Located between Saint- such as fish, cheese, and wine shops. It is also Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter, the a popular spot for local Parisians to stop and Luxembourg Gardens, inspired by the famed have a drink after work or while shopping. Boboli Gardens of Florence, were created at
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
14 the request of Queen Marie de Medici in 1612. Eiffel Tower, among other iconic sights, from Around 61 acres in total, they are divided different perspectives. Then, disembark your into traditional French- and English-style bus and get a sense of daily life in Paris during gardens. Between these two unique gardens a one-hour walking tour of one of the city’s lies a forest and a large pond, as well as an residential neighborhoods. You will return to orchard with a variety of apples, an apiary your ship around 12:45pm. where you can learn about bee-keeping, Lunch: Served onboard in the ship’s dining and greenhouses boasting an impressive room around 1:15pm. You’ll be offered your collection of orchids and roses. Art and archi- choice of soup at your table, and you may visit tectural wonders can be found alongside all the buffet for your choice of entrées and sides, of this natural beauty—106 statues are placed as well as salads and desserts. Complimentary throughout the park, as well as the famous house beer, house wine, and soft drinks are Medici fountain and the Pavillon Davioud. always available. Parisians and visitors alike frequent the park to stroll, play chess or tennis, or pilot little Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask remote-controlled toy boats across the pond. your Program Director for recommendations. • How to get there: Around a 15- to 20-min- Perhaps you will take a taxi back to the Eiffel ute taxi ride from the ship, about $25 USD Tower to enjoy yet another perspective of the one way. iconic structure—standing at its base. • Hours: Opens at 7:30am or 8:15am and At approximately 6pm, all travelers will gather closes at 4:30pm or 9:30pm, depending on in the ship’s lounge for a Welcome Drink to the season. Daily. celebrate the beginning of your journey. Then • Cost: Free. at around 6:45pm, you’ll settle in for a Port Day 3 Explore Paris • Captain’s Talk with your Program Director, lasting about 15 minutes. Welcome Dinner • Destination: Paris Dinner: Around 7pm, you are invited to the • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner dining room for the Captain’s Welcome Dinner. While the dress code remains smart casual, • Accommodations: M/S Bizet some travelers choose to wear a day dress or Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room slacks to the Captain’s Welcome Dinner. During starting at 7am. All breakfasts onboard are this special dinner, the Captain may come table served buffet style and you may choose from an to table to personally introduce himself or assortment of familiar options—including hot herself to each traveler and raise a glass to toast and cold cereals, eggs, sausage, bacon, fresh to the discoveries in store during the cruise. fruit, and toast. Breakfast service is until 8am today, and you are welcome to dine at your Evening: You have the freedom to spend the convenience. rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in Morning: After breakfast, spend the morning the lounge. exploring Paris, being introduced to both the city’s classic highlights and more intimate neighborhoods. First, you’ll depart around 9:15am on a panoramic bus tour, witnessing the
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
15 Day 4 Paris • Montmartre • French Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask language lesson your Program Director for recommendations. You may wish to experience Paris like a local • Destination: Paris and sip coffee at an outdoor café as you watch • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner the bustle of everyday life all around. Or, you • Accommodations: M/S Bizet may wish to join your Program Director on an Activity Note: All sailing times will depend on elective walk during which he or she will help to the tide and will vary by departure. immerse you further into French culture.
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Around 6:45pm, gather in the ship’s lounge for from 7am-8am. our nightly Port Talk.
Morning: After breakfast, you’ll depart by Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room motorcoach at around 8:15am to explore around 7pm. Montmartre, one of the most famous and lively Evening: Around 8:30pm, prepare yourself of the city’s 20 arrondissements (districts). Our for the local connections you’ll make on your drive will take us along the famed Seine River Cruise Tour during an Exclusive Champs-Elysees, where you’ll witness the Arc Discovery Series French lesson (about and hour de Triomphe (commissioned by Napoleon in and 15 minutes long). The remainder of your 1806 and completed in 1836), which stands evening is at leisure as our ship begins sailing at the end of the Champs-Elysees at a large towards the charming port town of Conflans central roundabout where twelve elegant, this evening. tree-lined avenues converge. Connecting these iconic landmarks are the banks of the Seine River—Paris’s only UNESCO World Day 5 Conflans • Optional Path of Heritage Site. Van Gogh tour • Impressionists conversation • Vernon After an approximately 45-minute drive, you’ll • Destination: Conflans arrive in Montmartre and begin a walking • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner tour with your Program Director and a local guide. Afterwards, spend some free time • Accommodations: M/S Bizet strolling the charming streets of this romantic Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room neighborhood, and witness the famed Sacre from 7am-8:30am. Coeur Basilica, with its dramatic perch on the top of the Montmartre hill. Delight in the views Morning: Around 8:45am, disembark your of Paris below, and watch the street artists at ship and enjoy a 45-minute walking tour of work or browse the local shops for a special Conflans with your Program Director, followed keepsake to bring home. You’ll return to your by a free morning and afternoon. Or, you may motorcoach around 12:15pm for the drive back instead opt to join us on an optional Path of Van to the ship. Gogh tour of Auvers-sur-Oise.
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Long known as the capital of France’s inland around 1pm. waterways, Conflans is also called the “capital of barges.” Its picturesque harbor is lined with an array of barges—most serving as private houseboats—among which you can find the
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
16 fascinating chapel boat, Je Sers, and a floating Evening: You have the freedom to spend the chocolate shop—both of which you may choose rest of your evening as you wish. There will be to visit. Take a leisurely stroll along the river onboard musical entertainment in the lounge or a more invigorating walk up to the ruins of from around 8:45pm to 9:45pm. the medieval castle that looks over the town, depending on how active you’d like to be today. Day 6 Vernon • Giverny You may also opt to take one of the ship’s bikes • Destination: Vernon and explore like a local. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Or, if you have chosen to take our optional Path • Accommodations: M/S Bizet of Van Gogh tour, you will instead depart around Activity Note: The tour of Monet’s home and 9:30am. After a 5-minute walk from the ship, gardens is not available on March or November you’ll board a motorcoach and begin your departures. We will offer a walking tour of travels through the landscapes that inspired Vernon and a cider tasting in Giverny instead. Impressionist painters on your way—about a 30-minute drive. The Seine, the Epte, and the Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Oise—three French waterways referred to as from 7am-8am. the “Rivers of Light”—neighbor each other in this region, and it was here that the artist Morning: Around 8:30am, disembark for an and other Impressionists gathered to paint excursion into the countryside to see the lovely natural scenes that have become recognizable landscapes that inspired Claude Monet. He worldwide. Upon arrival, you’ll meet a local first witnessed the village of Giverny while guide who will take you to see the final resting looking out a train window in 1883, and the place of Vincent van Gogh in the simple unique light of the Seine Valley kept him in and quaint town that inspired much of his residence for 43 years. He stayed here until work. You’ll depart around 12:30pm to arrive his death in 1926, and you’ll find his grave in back at the ship in time for lunch. the family vault at the town’s Romanesque church. Instead of a train, you’ll travel Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room here by motorcoach—around a 30-minute around 1pm. drive—arriving at Giverny around 9am.
Afternoon: At leisure for an afternoon of Explore the artist’s home and gardens, left by scenic cruising. Around 4:30pm, you may also his son Michel to the Academie des Beaux-Arts choose to gather in the lounge and take part in 1966 and now a museum dedicated to the in an Exclusive Discovery Series event, an great painter. The house is furnished as it was onboard conversation about Monet, providing when the leader of the Impressionist School historical context for tomorrow’s tour lived here, including his precious collection of of Giverny. Japanese engravings.
Around 6:45pm, return to the ship’s lounge for The gardens have been replanted, and as you our nightly Port Talk. stroll through them, you’ll see with your own eyes the landscapes that have graced countless Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Monet paintings. You’ll spot the familiar around 7pm. Japanese bridge and water garden shaded by weeping willows, its pond still full of the water lilies that so permeated his work. “I want to
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
17 paint like the birds sing,” Monet said. Perhaps free time for independent exploration. We’ll you’ll agree that the idyllic setting in Giverny spend about an hour here in total, wrapping up would lend itself to his dream. our explorations around 11:30am.
Around 11:45am you’ll begin walking back to Return to the ship around noon for an onboard your motorcoach for the drive back to the ship, Nautical Talk in the lounge with your Captain. arriving around 12:15pm. Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room around 12:45pm. around 12:45pm. Afternoon: The rest of the afternoon is at Afternoon: Around 2:30pm, you’ll take a your leisure. discovery walk of Vernon, led by your program Around 1pm, return to the ship and savor a Director. Afterwards, you’ll have free time in tasting of classic French bread and cheese the town. during an Exclusive Discovery Series event From 4:45pm on, the rest of the afternoon onboard as we sail towards Rouen. Then around is free until your nightly Port Talk onboard 6:45pm, gather for our daily Port Talk. around 6:30pm. Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room around 7pm. around 7:15pm. Evening: Our ship arrives in Rouen around Evening: You have the freedom to spend the 8:30pm this evening. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps you’ll night cap onboard around 8:45pm, as the ship’s relax in the lounge and listen to your Program lounge is transformed into a French guinguette, Director share traditional French fairy tales a traditional French bar and oftentimes around 8:45pm. dance hall.
Day 7 Vernon • Les Andelys • Rouen Day 8 Rouen • Home-Hosted Visit • Destination: Les Andelys • Destination: Rouen • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • Accommodations: M/S Bizet • Accommodations: M/S Bizet
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room from 7am to 9am. from 7am to 9am.
Morning: Your ship will depart Vernon for Les Morning: Around 9:15am, depart via Andelys after breakfast. Around 9am, enjoy an motorcoach for an Exclusive Discovery Series on-board conversation about Chateau Gaillard, Home-Hosted Visit in Rouen, arriving around an imposing fortress from the era of Richard 9:30am. You’ll break into smaller groups and the Lionheart, which you will see later today. join a local family for a sweet treat, which also You’ll arrive in Les Andelys around 10:30am and serves as an opportunity to learn more about set off for a walking tour of this quintessential life in France. Around noon, you’ll board your French village on the banks of the Seine and motorcoach and head back to the ship, arriving take in views of Chateau Gaillard. Then enjoy around 15 minutes later.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
18 Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Morning: After breakfast until around noon around 12:15pm. you are free to make your own discoveries in Rouen—ask your Program Director for Afternoon: Disembark around 2pm with recommendations or join them on an elective your Program Director and a local guide for a walk where you’ll delve further into the walking tour of Rouen, the capital of Normandy. town’s culture. This important French commercial center brimming with half-timbered houses has a Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room distinguished history dating to pre-Roman around noon. times. But it is more infamously known as the Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon city where Joan of Arc was imprisoned, tried for of river cruising during which you can heresy, and burned at the stake in 1431. Here partake in an onboard Exclusive Discovery you’ll see the 14th-century abbey where she Series event—around 2pm, learn how to was sentenced to death, and visit the Market prepare a few of France’s culinary delights Square where her execution took place. During as your ship’s chef demonstrates cooking your free time after your tour, you may want techniques. to delve deeper into the tragic life of France’s sainted martyr and heroine of the Hundred Spend the rest of the day at leisure onboard as Years’ War (1337-1453) with a visit to the Joan you sail to Honfleur, your final port of call. Our of Arc Museum. daily Port Talk will take place around 6:45pm in the lounge. You’ll wrap up your walking tour around 3:30pm. The balance of the afternoon is Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room yours—ask your Program Director for around 7pm. recommendations. Our daily Port Talk will be held onboard around 6:45pm Evening: You have the freedom to spend the rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in around 7pm. the lounge as your crew performs for you around 8:45pm. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps Freedom To Explore: During your two full days you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in in Honfleur, you have the freedom to explore the lounge. this coastal city on your own during your free time. Below are a few recommended options for Day 9 Rouen • Cooking demonstration independent explorations: • Honfleur • Immerse yourself in the sensory wonders of • Destination: Rouen Les Maisons Satie: Opened in 1998, Maisons • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Satie perfectly captures the whimsical spirit • Accommodations: M/S Bizet of French composer and pianist Erik Satie. Born in one of the two half-timbered maisons Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Satie (Satie houses) on May 17, 1866, Satie from 7am to 9am. went on to write music considered quite avant-garde. Satie himself once said he was “born very young in a very old time.”
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
19 Visitors are invited to explore this unusual tropical escape, the Naturospace Butterfly exhibition, walking from room to room—each House offers visitors a quick getaway amid one boasting a unique or surreal style—as a free-roaming birds and butterflies. Its indoor headset playing Satie’s compositions acts as location and regulated climate provides its your musical guide. visitors with a unique journey, filled with • How to get there: Around a 5- to 10-min- wonder as they catch a glimpse of these rare ute taxi ride from the ship, about $5 USD and colorful creatures. one way. • How to get there: Around a 10- to 15-min- • Hours: From May 1 to September 30: Every ute taxi ride from the ship, about $5 USD day except Tuesday, 10am to 7pm. From one way. October1 to April 30: Every day except • Hours: March through October from 10am Tuesday, 11am to 6pm. to 5pm. April through September from • Cost: $6.30 USD. 10am to 6.30pm. • Discover the Musee Eugene Boudin: Situated • Cost: $9 USD. in Honfluer—known as the city of painters— the Musee Eugene Boudin features an array Day 10 Honfleur • Normandy beaches of Impressionist artists who, at one time • Destination: Honfleur or another, called Honfleur home. It hosts • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner a large collection of 19th and 20th century • Accommodations: M/S Bizet paintings featuring the surrounding towns Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room and coastline; an entire room is dedicated to from 7am to 8am. the museum’s namesake, Eugène Boudin, an early impressionist and marine painter who Morning: Around 8am, embark via motorcoach was born in Honfluer. Other notable artists for a full-day tour of D-Day discoveries. The include Monet, Dubourg, Jongkind, and D-Day landings, code-named “Operation Friesz—just to name a few. Overlord,” were the largest military campaigns • How to get there: Around a 5- to 10-min- in recorded history with the beaches of ute taxi ride from the ship, about $5 USD Normandy bearing the brunt of the invasion. one way. Beginning at 6:30am on June 6, 1944, nearly • Hours: From March 15 to September 30: 7,000 landing craft hit the highly-fortified Daily from 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm. coastline. Those vessels carried tens of From mid-March to September: Daily thousands of soldiers from the United States, from 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm. From Great Britain, Canada, and many other Allied October 1 to 14 March 14: Weekdays from nations, all of whom arrived determined to 2:30pm to 5:30pm; weekends from 10am to carry out General Eisenhower’s order, “Full 12pm and from 2:30pm to 5:30pm. victory—nothing else.” Cost: $4.50 USD. • Lunch: Around 12:30pm, we’ll stop for lunch • Uncover a tropical paradise in Naturospace at a local restaurant. Enjoy hearty local fare, Butterfly House: Step into another world, finished off with a slice of tarte tatin, French surrounded by tropical flowers and trees, apple pie. in an atmosphere that ranges from 77 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit and is punctuated with mist and warm rain. Closer than a
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
20 Afternoon: After lunch, continue to the Morning: Around 9am, set off on a walking American Military Cemetery. You’ll see a tour of the well-preserved port town of monument honoring the fallen, and visit the Honfleur, founded in the eleventh century, cemetery of Colleville sur Mer, where 9,386 with your Program Director. Situated on a Seine American soldiers were laid to rest. estuary opposite Le Havre, the town was once one of the most important ports in France. Walk down to Omaha Beach for an up-close Many voyages of discovery were launched look at where the first Allied footing was from here, including the journey of native son achieved in German-occupied France. When Samuel de Champlain—who went on to found they arrived on shore, the Allies were met Port Royal in Nova Scotia and the settlement with a deafening barrage of German gunfire. of Quebec in Canada. The port changed hands As Nazis soldiers shot from secure concrete frequently between France and England during pillboxes built high above the open sand, Allied the Hundred Years’ War and was finally won fighters were mowed down while exiting the back by France in 1450. In the 1800s, Le Havre Higgins boats and wading to shore. In time, displaced Honfleur as a major port. You’ll wrap some doggedly made it to the ridge overlooking up your explorations around 10:30am and the beach, finding shelter from the hail of return to the ship for lunch. enemy bullets. More than a thousand Allied troops died on Omaha Beach alone. Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room around 11:45am. Continue delving into D-Day’s unprecedented history as you make your way to Pointe du Afternoon: You’ll have time to continue Hoc—a site all Normandy veterans know exploring Honfleur on your own for the rest well—where Allied forces scaled 328-foot cliffs of the day. This will be your last opportunity as they sought to silence German artillery. to take one of the ship’s complimentary We’ll depart by motorcoach for the ship around bicycles out for a spin, and the coastal charms 6:15pm. Gather in the ship’s lounge around of Honfleur are tailor-made for a leisurely 7pm for our daily Port Talk. bike ride.
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Or, you may choose to join a half-day around 7:15pm. optional excursion to the beautiful cliffs on the Normandy coast at Etretat, departing by Evening: You have the freedom to spend the motorcoach around 1:15pm and arriving around rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps 2:15pm. First, you’ll discover the White Bird you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in Monument, erected on top of the cliffs to mark the lounge. the last place the “White Bird” airplane was seen. In 1927, a pair of French WWI heroes Day 11 Honfleur • Optional Cliffs of Etretat attempted to make the first non-stop flight tour • Captain’s Farewell Dinner from Paris to New York City, but the plane • Destination: Honfleur mysteriously disappeared somewhere over the • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Atlantic, never to be seen again. Afterwards, you’ll descend the cliffs to explore the • Accommodations: M/S Bizet sandy beaches. Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room from 7am to 9am.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
21 Around 6:30pm, all travelers will meet in the Lunch: On your own around 11am at the ship’s lounge for a Farewell Drink, followed by memorial—ask your Program Director for our final Port Talk. recommendations.
Dinner: Around 7pm, gather with your new Afternoon: Continue explorations of the friends to share memories and toast to your museum on your own from around noon to enriching Seine River Cruise Tour at the 1pm. Then, transfer via motorcoach to the hotel Captain’s Farewell Dinner. near Charles de Gaulle Airport, located 18 miles from the Paris city center, for a final night in Evening: You have the freedom to spend the France before your return flight. Depending rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps on where we stay, our hotel will likely have you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax an indoor heated pool, sauna, and fitness in the lounge as you enjoy onboard musical center. You’ll check into your hotel around entertainment around 8:45pm. 5pm; each room will likely feature a satellite TV, wireless Internet access, and a minibar. Day 12 Honfleur • Disembark ship • Caen Take some time to settle in before joining your Peace Memorial Museum • Roissy Program Director for a 30-minute vicinity walk • Destination: Roissy around 6pm.
• Included Meals: Breakfast Dinner: On your own—ask your Program • Accommodations: Hotel Oceania Paris Roissy Director for local restaurant recommendations. CDG or similar Evening: Free for your own discoveries—ask Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room your Program Director for recommendations. from 7am to 8:30am.
Morning: Around 8:45am, disembark your Day 13 Paris • Return to U.S. ship and transfer via motorcoach to the Peace • Included Meals: Breakfast Memorial Museum in Caen, a state-of-the-art facility that vividly presents the events Breakfast: Included at the hotel this morning. of World War II, including D-Day. It’s an Morning: After breakfast, transfer via excellent way to put into context what you motorcoach to the airport for your flight home. saw at the Normandy beaches. You’ll arrive Or further your discoveries with our Brittany around 10:15am and explore on your own until & Mont St. Michel, France or London, England around 11am. post-trip extensions.
END YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL POST-TRIP EXTENSION 4 nights in Brittany & Mont St. Michel, France
Day 1 Honfleur • St. Malo Day 4 St. Malo • Roissy Day 2 St. Malo • Optional Dinan tour Day 5 Paris • Return to U.S. Day 3 St. Malo • Mont St. Michel
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
22 OR 4 nights in London, England
Day 1 Paris, France • London, England Day 4 London • Hampton Court optional tour Day 2 London • Windsor Castle optional tour Day 5 London • Return to U.S. Day 3 London
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
23 OPTIONAL TOURS
During your trip you will be able to book optional tours directly with us. We will ask you to confirm the payment for these tours by filling out a payment form and swiping your credit card at the ship’s front desk. Optional tours can only be purchased with a credit or debit card. We accept MasterCard and Visa on all trips, and Discover on all trips except river cruises in France. We also accept Visa and MasterCard debit cards, but it must be a debit card that allows you to sign for purchases.
In order to correctly process these charges, there can be a delay of 2-3 months from the date of your return for the charges to be posted to your account. Therefore we ask that you use a card that will not expire in the 2-3 months following your return.
Please note: Optional tour prices are listed in U.S. dollar estimates determined at the time of publication and are subject to change. Optional tours may vary.
Path of Van Gogh (Day 5 $65 per person)
Led by a local guide on this optional walking tour of Auvers-sur-Oise, you’ll see the final resting place of Vincent van Gogh in the quaint town that inspired much of his work. Along the way, you’ll pass by the various places that inspired the famed Impressionist, such as the Auvers Church and the artist’s residence.
The Cliffs of Etretat (Day 11 $60 per person)
Explore the picturesque cliffs of Etretat this afternoon. First, you’ll discover the White Bird Monument, erected on top of the cliffs to mark the last place the “White Bird” airplane was seen. In 1927, a pair of French WWI heroes attempted to make the first non-stop flight from Paris to New York City, but the plane mysteriously disappeared somewhere over the Atlantic, never to be seen again. Afterwards, you’ll descend the cliffs to explore the sandy beaches.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
24 PRE-TRIP Paris, France
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Dedicated services of a local » 3 breakfasts Program Director » 2-day Metro pass » Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach drivers » All transfers
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Often referred to as the “City of Lights,” the French capital is one of Europe’s most stunning and influential metropolitan centers, featuring renowned landmarks and world-famous art museums—combined with romance, style, and a certain je ne sais quoi that make it one of the world’s leading travel destinations.
Day 1 Depart U.S. Around 4:30pm, you might choose to join your Program Director for an orientation walk to get Depart today on your flight to Paris. Please better acquainted with the area around your refer to your individual air itinerary for exact hotel. Then around 5:30pm, celebrate your departure and arrival times. arrival in France with a Welcome Drink and briefing. Day 2 Paris, France Dinner: On your own. Your Program Director • Destination: Paris can suggest places to dine this evening in • Accommodations: Hôtel Rochechouart the “City of Light.” Be sure to order a cheese or similar plate after your meal—France is famous for Morning/Afternoon: lease refer to your their wide variety of delectable cheeses and individual air itinerary for exact arrival times. sampling them after your main course is A Grand Circle representative will meet you at quintessentially French. the airport and assist with your transfer to your Evening: You have the freedom to spend the hotel by motorcoach. Depending on where we rest of your evening as you wish—ask your stay, our hotel will likely feature a restaurant, Program Director for recommendations. and lounge on site. Each air-conditioned room typically includes a kettle for coffee or tea, wireless Internet access, a safe, and private bath with hair dryer.The balance of the day is yours to relax after your overseas flight.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
25 Day 3 Paris • French Cabaret Dinner & Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Show optional tour rest of the evening as you wish—ask your Program Director for recommendations. • Destination: Paris • Included Meals: Breakfast Day 4 Paris • Highlights of the Louvre • Accommodations: Hôtel Rochechouart Optional Tour or similar • Destination: Paris Activity Note: The traditional cabaret • Included Meals: Breakfast performance is intended for an adult audience, • Accommodations: Hôtel Rochechouart and includes some nudity. The cabaret is closed or similar on Tuesdays; this optional tour may be featured on an alternate day. Activity Note: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays; this optional tour may be featured on Breakfast: Included at the hotel, an alternate day. starting at 7am. Breakfast: Included at the hotel, starting Morning: Begin your morning with a discover around 7am. walk of Paris led by your Program Director from 9am-10:30am, where you’ll get oriented Morning: Begin a full day on your own with this fascinating city. Afterwards, the days to explore Paris in depth. Stroll along the is yours in Paris to pursue your own interests, celebrated Champs Elysees, considered to be making the most of an included Metro pass one of the most beautiful avenues in the world. to discover all this culture-rich city has to Or, join an optional morning tour to the offer. Perhaps you’ll trace Paris’ past at the renowned Louvre Museum to see some of the ornate Renaissance-style Hotel de Ville, built in museum’s priceless artworks and treasures. the 14th century when Paris moved its location Your motorcoach will depart around 8:45am from two islands on the Seine to the mainland. and your guided visit will begin at 9:30am. Lunch: On your own—ask your Program Afterwards, you’ll return to the hotel via Director for local restaurant recommendations. motorcoach around 12:15pm. Maybe you’ll opt for a cozy bistro and sit down Lunch: On your own—ask your Program to a hearty meal of steak-frites. Director for local restaurant recommendations. Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask A light, portable option is a crepe, available in your Program Director for recommendations. both sweet and savory varieties. There are many You might choose to explore the Place des creperies all over the city, from sit-down cafes Vosges, the city’s oldest square. to street vendors.
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask Director for local restaurant recommendations. your Program Director for recommendations. Perhaps your explorations will lead you to view Or, join us for an optional outing to a lively the iconic Arc de Triomphe. French Cabaret Dinner & Show, departing the hotel via motorcoach around 7:15pm. Afterwards, you’ll depart for the hotel around 11:15pm, arriving back at around 11:45pm.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
26 Dinner: On your own—ask your Program Day 5 Paris • Join main trip Director for local restaurant recommendations. • Included Meals: Breakfast A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without at least trying a taste of their famed escargot. Breakfast: Included at the hotel, starting around 7am. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the rest of the evening as you wish—ask your Morning: Enjoy some free time this morning, Program Director for recommendations. You preparing yourself for the next part of your may want to spend your last night in search journey. Then around 10:30am, transfer by of the perfect finale to your dinner—France’s motorcoach to your river ship, arriving around most famous cookie, the macaron. 11am, and begin your Seine: Paris to Normandy River Cruise Tour.
OPTIONAL TOURS
French Cabaret Dinner & Show sculptures and paintings by the Great Masters (Day 3 $210 per person) unrivaled. During your guided tour, you’ll see During your evening outing to the Latin some of the museum’s priceless artworks and Quarter, delight in a Parisian cabaret treasures, which may include Leonardo da performance that features the famed Cancan Vinci’s cherished masterpiece, Mona Lisa, and dance, and find out why this kind of theater has the Greek sculpture of Venus de Milo. been celebrated for so many years—in France Please note: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays; this and throughout the world. Your excursion optional tour may be featured on an alternate day. includes dinner at the theater.
Please note: This traditional cabaret performance is intended for an adult audience, and includes some nudity. The cabaret is closed on Tuesdays; this optional tour may be featured on an alternate day.
Highlights of the Louvre (Day 4 $85 per person) Your first glimpse of the Louvre will be the I.M. Pei-designed entrance, which created a great deal of controversy when it was built in 1989. Called the Pyramide du Louvre, the steel-rod, cable, and glass pyramids at the three main Louvre entrances are today considered a fine example of the blending of modern with classic architecture. The treasures inside the museum are world famous, and the collection of
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
27 PRE-TRIP Loire Valley, France
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 4 nights » Dedicated services of a local » 6 meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner Program Director » Included tours with personal headsets: » Gratuities for local guides and Château de Chambord • Blois • Winery visit motorcoach drivers • Amboise » All transfers
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Known as the “Garden of France” and rich with architectural heritage and historic towns, the Loire Valley is home to world-famous castles and their surrounding gardens. Its many cultural monuments illustrate the influence of the Renaissance and the Age of the Enlightenment on Western European thought and design.
Day 1 Depart U.S. Lunch: If your flight arrives between 11am and 11:45am, you may take a shuttle bus from the Depart today on your flight to France. Please airport to Paris for lunch on your own—ask refer to your individual air itinerary for exact your Program Director for local restaurant departure and arrival times. recommendations.
Day 2 Arrive Roissy, France Afternoon: Those travelers who opted for lunch in Paris may take a shuttle to the hotel • Destination: Roissy around 3pm. Then, around 6:30pm, gather at • Accommodations: Hotel Oceania Paris Roissy your hotel’s lounge with your fellow travelers CDG or similar and Program Director celebrate your arrival in Morning: Arrive this morning or afternoon in France during a Welcome Drink and briefing, France where you’ll be met at the Charles de which will wrap up around 7:30pm. Gaulle Airport and transferred to your nearby Dinner: On your own—ask your Program hotel, in Roissy, located 18 miles from the Director for local restaurant recommendations. Paris city center. Depending on where we stay, your hotel room will likely feature a satellite Evening: You have the freedom to spend the TV, Internet access, and a minibar; an indoor rest of your evening as you wish—ask your heated pool, sauna, and fitness center are Program Director for recommendations. typically on site. You have the balance of the day to relax after your overseas flight.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
28 Day 3 Roissy • Blois Rooms will likely include wireless Internet access, satellite TV, safe, minibar, and private • Destination: Blois bath with hair dryer. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner • Accommodations: Hotel Mercure Blois Dinner: Tonight, gather with your fellow Centre or similar travelers for an included dinner at a local restaurant. Breakfast: Included at the hotel, starting around 7am. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Morning: Around 8:30am, you’ll board a Program Director for recommendations. motorcoach and travel overland, taking in the lush scenery of the Loire Valley along the way. With more than 300 châteaux, from Day 4 Blois • Optional Château de tenth-century castles to splendid mansions Chenonceau tour built a thousand years later, this “Garden of • Destination: Blois France” attracted Kings and nobility for its • Included Meals: Breakfast charm and beauty. And today, the fertile valley • Accommodations: Hotel Mercure Blois with its moderate climate continues to entice Centre or similar visitors. We’ll arrive in Chambord in time for lunch. Breakfast: Included at the hotel starting around 7am. Lunch: On your own—ask your Program Director for local restaurant recommendations. Morning: Around 9am, you’ll take a guided tour of the architecturally striking Royal Afternoon: After lunch, you’ll have some time Château with your Program Director and a local to discover Chambord—home of the Loire guide. It combines four distinct wings around Valley’s largest château, which gleams like a single courtyard, each corresponding to a a great white stone in the middle of rolling different architectural period and style. Married pastureland. It was commissioned by King with 19th- and 20th-century restorations, Francois I from 1519-1547 as a supposed these form a unique panorama of French hunting lodge when really, he intended to design. Your tour will wrap up around 11am, just secure refuge close to his mistress. As you in time for lunch. The rest of your day is yours explore the château this afternoon, be on to explore on your own, or you may choose the lookout for its marvelous double-helix to join an optional tour to the Château de staircase, rumored to have been designed by Chenonceau. The motorcoach will depart your Leonardo da Vinci. And perhaps you’ll come to hotel around 11am. understand why Henry James once remarked upon the rooftop by writing, “...The towers, Lunch: On your own—ask your Program cupolas, the gables, the lanterns, the chimneys, Director for local restaurant recommendations. look more like the spires of a city than the Perhaps you’ll try a local favorite, fouaces, salient points of a single building.” over-sized turnovers stuffed with a variety of fillings such as rillettes (similar to pork paté) or Around 4pm you’ll depart via motorcoach for goat’s cheese. Those taking the optional tour our hotel in Blois, arriving around 4:30pm to Château de Chenonceau will depart around to check in. Our hotel typically features a 11am to have lunch on their own in Chenonceau. restaurant, bar, indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
29 Afternoon: This afternoon, enjoy free time Afternoon: Then around 1pm, you’ll depart to explore independently. For those on our via motorcoach for Amboise (arriving optional tour to Chenonceau, we’ll arrive back approximately 45 minutes later), where you’ll at our hotel around 6:30pm. partake in a discovery walk of its Old Town with your Program Director, and view the facade of Dinner: On your own—ask your Program its sprawling château, which is recognized as a Director for local restaurant recommendations. National Heritage Site by the French Ministry of Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Culture. Around 3pm, you’ll have a few hours to rest of your evening as you wish—ask your continue exploring the area on your own. You’ll Program Director for recommendations. board the motorcoach around 5pm and arrive back in Bloise around 6pm.
Day 5 Blois • Amboise • Winery tour Dinner: On your own—ask your Program • Destination: Amboise Director for local restaurant recommendations. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Freshwater fish is staple of the Loire Valley diet—sandre (pikeperch) and brème (bream) • Accommodations: Hotel Mercure Blois are especially popular and are frequently paired Centre or similar with a beurre blanc sauce. Breakfast: Included at the hotel, starting around 7am. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Morning: Around 9am, depart for the village Program Director for recommendations. of Angé via motorcoach, where you’ll enjoy an included excursion to the Domaine du Clos Day 6 Blois • Join main trip Roussely, a family-owned vineyard. After you arrive around 9:45am, you’ll wend your way • Included Meals: Breakfast through rows of grapevines, trodding atop Activity Note: Today’s activities will include an the chalky soil that makes for well-balanced overland transfer of around 3 hours. Sauvignon Blancs and Cabernet Francs. You’ll also take a tour of the estate’s wine cellars. Breakfast: Included at the hotel starting around 7am. Lunch: Around 11:30am, a lunch buffet will follow, where you’ll be given the chance to Morning: Around 8:30am, transfer to your river sample some of the vineyard’s vintages during ship by motorcoach, arriving in Paris around an included wine tasting. 12:30pm. Here, you’ll begin your Seine: Paris to Normandy River Cruise Tour.
OPTIONAL TOUR
Château de Chenonceau and it’s gardens. Throughout the 15th to (Day 4 $75 per person) 20th centuries, the Château de Chenonceau Join an optional tour of the Château de changed hands several times, but as you roam Chenonceau. Have lunch on your own in Chenonceau before taking a tour of the Château
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
30 the property today, you’ll still find its grand arches spanning the River Cher and several delightful gardens.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
31 POST-TRIP Brittany & Mont St. Michel, France
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 4 nights » Dedicated services of a local » 5 meals: 4 breakfasts and 1 dinner Program Director » Included tours with personal headsets: St. » Gratuities for local guides and Malo • Mont St. Michel • Chartres Cathedral motorcoach drivers » All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Off the coast of France, surrounded by swirling seas, a magnificent cathedral rises from the rock: Mont St. Michel. Discover this ancient abbey—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—as well as the idyllic village of the same name, plus Brittany’s verdant landscapes and unique blend of Celtic and French cultures.
Day 1 Honfleur • St. Malo a private bath, while the hotel grounds will likely offer a relaxing pool and spa.As early as • Destination: St. Malo the Middle Ages, St. Malo controlled the flow • Included Meals: Dinner of boat traffic in both directions: from the • Accommodations: Grand Hotel de sea to the River Rance and vice versa. Holding Courtoisville or similar such power went to the heads of its rulers, Activity Note: The first day of this extension who for three years declared St. Malo its own will overlap with the Day 12 of the main trip. country—not subject to France, nor even Brittany. Afternoon: After visiting the Caen Memorial on Day 12 of The Seine: Paris to Normandy, you’ll Dinner: Join your fellow travelers tonight for transfer to the beautiful, Celtic-flavored region dinner at a local restaurant. of Brittany by motorcoach—departing around Evening: You have the freedom to spend the 1pm. Nestled between the English Channel rest of your evening as you wish—ask your and the Bay of Biscay, the peninsula known as Program Director for recommendations. Brittany was once its own kingdom. Brittany has long inspired painters and poets, with its pink granite coast, and lush countryside Day 2 St. Malo • Optional Dinan tour studded with manors, chateaux, and fortified • Destination: St. Malo villages. • Included Meals: Breakfast Around 4pm, you’ll arrive and check in to your • Accommodations: Grand Hotel de hotel in the historic port town of St. Malo. Courtoisville or similar Typical rooms feature modern amenities and Breakfast: Included at the hotel starting at 7am.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
32 Morning: Around 8:45am, board a motorcoach Day 3 St. Malo • Mont St. Michel and head to the city center—about a 15-minute • Destination: Mont St. Michel drive. Upon arrival, embark upon a walking • Included Meals: Breakfast tour with a local guide to discover all that St. Malo has to offer within its ancient walls. A • Accommodations: Grand Hotel de highlight of your discoveries will be a visit to Courtoisville or similar the home of a corsair. The corsairs attacked the Breakfast: Included at the hotel starting at 7am. vessels of other nations, often plundering some or all of their bounty, but the corsairs weren’t Morning: Around 8am, depart via motorcoach officially pirates because they had letters of and head to the tiny town of Mont St. Michel, authorization from the King of France himself. connected by causeway to the mainland Building elaborate mansions (including one the and home to only a few dozen full-time size of a city block) to display their wealth, the residents. Upon arrival around 9:15am, enjoy corsairs were truly a class unto themselves, as an included guided tour of the medieval town you’ll discover during your visit. We’ll wrap up and its eleventh-century Romanesque Abbey, our discoveries around 11:30am. world-famous for its dramatic clifftop perch, as well as its rich history. Breton legend has it Lunch: On your own—ask your Program that the archangel Michael appeared to Aubert, Director for local restaurant recommendations. the local bishop, in AD 708 and demanded that a church be built on this stony promontory, but Or, if you’ve elected to take our optional tour, Aubert—somehow unfazed by the appearance enjoy lunch at a local crêperie. of a celestial vistor—said no. Aubert changed Afternoon: The remainder of the day is yours his mind, so the story goes, when Michael for discovery at your own pace. Perhaps you’ll burned a hole into the bishop’s skull with choose to stroll through the grey granite arch one finger. The first structure was built soon of Porte St. Vincent into the Old Town at Place after, and was then expanded dramatically in Chateaubriand, where shops and cafes line the the eleventh century, taking the striking form streets facing the castle. Or, join our optional we see today. You may decide for yourself tour to visit medieval Dinan. whether the finished Abbey resembles a mostly closed fist with the spire as one extended Dinner: On your own—ask your Program angelic finger. Director for local restaurant recommendations. St. Malo’s restaurant options are plentiful At around noon, you’ll board the motorcoach to and many offer fresh seafood options such as head to your next destination. moules mariniere. Lunch: Around 1pm, enjoy lunch on your own Evening: You have the freedom to spend the in St. Michel. Try local favorites, such as an rest of your evening as you wish—ask your omelette Mont St. Michel or fresh salmon. Program Director for recommendations. Afternoon: After lunch, around 2pm, continue to the quaint fishing port of Cancale, arriving around 3pm. Whether you stroll along the rocky jetty or peruse the crates of dripping wet, fresh mollusks set up streetside by local vendors, there’s no escaping the rich bounty of the sea.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
33 You’ll return to St. Malo via motorcoach around elegant flying buttresses or its 150 stained 4:30pm and arrive back at the hotel around glass windows, you will witness much the 5pm. Once there, enjoy a Farewell Drink at the same view that greeted pilgrims 800 years ago. hotel with your fellow travelers. Be sure to note the striking labyrinth pattern on the cathedral floor; though some theorize Dinner: On your own in St. Malo. Perhaps you’ll that it was once used for ritual purposes, the try one of the many restaurants serving oysters labyrinth’s true origins remain mysterious to from Cancale. this day. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Around 3pm, you’ll board the motorcoach and rest of your evening as you wish—ask your continue to Roissy, arriving at around 5:45pm Program Director for recommendations. to check into your hotel. Depending on where we stay, your hotel room will likely feature a Day 4 St. Malo • Roissy satellite TV, Internet access, and a minibar. The • Destination: Paris hotel typically offers an indoor heated pool, • Included Meals: Breakfast sauna, and fitness center.
• Accommodations: Hotel Oceania Paris Roissy Dinner: On your own—ask your Program CDG or similar Director for local restaurant recommendations. Activity Note: If you choose this optional Evening: You have the freedom to spend the post-trip extension, tonight’s hotel stay will rest of your evening as you wish—ask your coincide with Day 12 of the base trip. Program Director for recommendations. Breakfast: Included at the hotel. starting around 7:30am. Day 5 Paris • Return to U.S.
Morning: You’ll depart for Paris by motorcoach • Included Meals: Breakfast around 9:30am, enjoying a visit en route to Breakfast: Included at the hotel starting at 7am. the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chartres Cathedral (arriving around noon). Take part in Morning: Transfer to the airport via a brief orientation walk of the area with your motorcoach for your flight home. Departure Program Director before lunch. times from the hotel will vary depending on your air itinerary. Lunch: Around 12:30pm on your own—ask your Program Director for local restaurant recommendations. Perhaps you’ll try a local dish such as Poule au Pot, chicken boiled with broth and vegetables.
Afternoon: Around 2pm, you’ll take part in a one-hour guided visit of Chartres Cathedral. Since the majority of its construction in the late twelfth century, the cathedral has remained largely unscathed by the ravages of time, nature, and even the French Revolution. When you explore it today, and soak in its
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
34 OPTIONAL TOUR
Dinan (Day 2 $60 per person) Stop by a local creperie in St. Malo for a glass of cider and a classic Breton crepe. Then, visit medieval Dinan and embark on a guided tour of the town, featuring its ramparts and towers. You’ll learn about Dinan’s history, including its strategic location on the Rance River.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
35 POST-TRIP London, England
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 4 nights » Dedicated services of a local » 4 breakfasts Program Director » Included tour with personal » Gratuities for local guides and headsets: London motorcoach drivers » All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Extend your discoveries in London, the bustling, historic capital of England. Enjoy an included city tour of London’s attractions, including Parliament and Westminster Abbey, and enjoy ample free time to explore more such as the Royal Albert Hall, Victoria and Albert Museum, or British Museum on your own.
Day 1 Paris, France • London, England and chips, a traditional London lunch food. This easy dish gained popularity in the 19th century • Destination: London and has remained a staple ever since, with a • Accommodations: Millennium Gloucester plethora of shops throughout the city offering Hotel Kensington or similar their own spin on the recipe. Morning: Depart your Paris hotel at around 6am and transfer by motorcoach to the airport Afternoon: You’ll have a few hours this for your flight to London. Upon landing, a afternoon to settle in or begin exploring Grand Circle representative will meet you and London on your own. Perhaps you’ll wander take you to your hotel, where you will arrive around Covent Garden, an outdoor marketplace at around 10:30am and be met by your London since the 17th century, when it was a center Program Director. They’ll help you check in for traders and merchants, and today home and brief you about what to expect from your to some of London’s most talented street stay in London. Your hotel will likely be located performers. In fact, Covent Garden is the only in the heart of central London, and feature a part of London where street entertainment restaurant, gym, and laundry service. Typical is licensed, and performers must audition rooms are equipped with Internet access, a and sign up for specific time slots in order to cable/satellite TV, coffee- and tea-making perform there. facilities, a minibar, iron and ironing board, At around 4pm, join your Program Director for hair dryer, and in-room safe. a vicinity and orientation walk around the hotel Lunch: On your own—ask your Program neighborhood. Director for local restaurant recommendations. Dinner: On your own—ask your Program You might take the opportunity to seek out fish Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
36 Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Afternoon: At leisure. You might consider a rest of your evening as you wish—ask your visit to the British Museum, which houses Program Director for recommendations. antiquities tracing the history of human culture. Its treasures include the Rosetta Day 2 London • Windsor Castle Stone, the largest collection of Mesopotamian optional tour antiquities in Europe, and more than 13 million other historical objects. • Destination: London • Included Meals: Breakfast Or, join an optional tour to Windsor Castle, • Accommodations: Millennium Gloucester the largest and longest-inhabited castle in Hotel Kensington or similar the world. You’ll depart for the castle via mini shuttle bus at around 1:30pm, arriving at Breakfast: Served at your hotel at around approximately 2:15pm. Enjoy a guided tour of 7:30am. Breakfast will likely be served buffet the historically-rich site, which was home to style, featuring an assortment of familiar royalty, including Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. options—including hot and cold cereals, eggs, Explore the castle’s ornate state apartments, St. sausage, bacon, fresh fruit, and toast. Perhaps George’s Chapel, and the iconic Round Tower. you’ll start the day with a traditional full After your tour, you’ll have some free time to English breakfast; a hearty platter typically explore the castle on your own before departing consisting of sausage, bacon, baked beans, back to the hotel at around 4:45pm, arriving cooked tomatoes, fried bread, egg, and at 5:30pm. black pudding, served alongside a piping hot cup of tea. Dinner: On your own—ask your Program Director for local restaurant recommendations. Morning: Today’s discoveries begin at You might choose to sample Britain’s national around 8:30am, when you’ll set off with your dish this evening—curry. Indian cuisine was professional London guide on an included introduced to England when it sat at the center panoramic walking tour. You’ll get an of a world-spanning empire; while the sun may introduction to London’s major landmarks, have since set on Britain’s imperial ambitions, including Parliament and Westminster its love for curry continues unabated, and Abbey—the most beautiful Gothic church in London offers a variety of options, from London and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. upscale Michelin-starred restaurants, to Founded by Edward the Confessor in the hole-in-the-wall takeaways. eleventh century, it features Poets’ Corner, where some of England’s greatest writers are Evening: You have the freedom to spend the buried. Then discover legendary Buckingham rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Palace, home to England’s royal family, along Program Director for recommendations. with St. Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Square.
At around 12:30pm, you’ll return by motorcoach to your hotel.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
37 Day 3 London art galleries and artistic displays; some of the country’s great artistic treasures are here. • Destination: London Entry to the museum is free, as is entry to the • Included Meals: Breakfast adjacent National History Museum and Science • Accommodations: Millennium Gloucester Museum, both of which are well worth a visit. Hotel Kensington or similar Dinner: On your own—ask your Program Breakfast: Served buffet-style at your hotel at Director for local restaurant recommendations. around 7:30am. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Morning: Depart your hotel at 9:30am with rest of your evening as you wish—ask your your Program Director for a visit to a local Program Director for recommendations. market. You’ll arrive at around 10am and spend about an hour interacting with the vendors, learning about daily life as a London merchant Day 4 London • Hampton Court and sampling the various food being offered optional tour amongst the stalls. • Destination: London • Included Meals: Breakfast At around 11am, you’ll head to a local pub, arriving at around 11:30am. You’ll spend about • Accommodations: Millennium Gloucester an hour here with your Program Director, Hotel Kensington or similar enjoying the opportunity to chat with the Breakfast: Served buffet-style at your hotel at service and a few of the regulars about the around 7:30am. vital role that the local pub plays in London’s cultural scene. Morning: Begin a last day at leisure in England’s capital. Lunch: On your own—ask your Program Director for local restaurant recommendations. Or, join a full-day optional tour to one of Perhaps you’ll be inspired to try some England’s most magnificent palaces—Hampton traditional London “pub grub”—typical Court. Depart the hotel by mini shuttle bus at offerings include Sunday roast (beef, lamb, around 9am, and ride for about an hour to the chicken, or pork served with a side of potatoes, palace. At around 10:15am, you’ll begin your vegetables, and gravy), savory meat pies, and tour, accompanied by a local expert guide. The “toad in the hole” (sausages baked into the estate was leased by Cardinal Wolsey in 1514, batter of a Yorkshire pudding). and he began rebuilding and converting it into a lavish palace. Hampton Court became a royal Afternoon: At leisure. You may want to get residence when it was turned over to Henry better acquainted with some of London’s justly VIII in 1529. A pair of magnificent public rooms famous theaters and museums. The Royal remains from Henry’s reign: the Great Hall and Albert Hall was inspired by the early works of the Chapel Royal, still a place of worship today. the Romans. This large amphitheater is home to some of the world’s finest concerts and musical The practical side of royal life is represented events, and is a true English monument. Queen by the enormous Tudor Kitchens, the most Victoria laid the foundation stone for the extensive surviving 16th-century kitchens in Royal Albert Hall in 1867 in memory of her late Europe, where meals for 1,000 people were once husband, Prince Albert. Nearby is the Victoria prepared daily. The palace is home to one of the & Albert Museum, a spacious building full of greatest collections of Renaissance paintings
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
38 in England, housed in the Wolsey Rooms and Dinner: On your own—ask your Program the Renaissance Picture Gallery. The buildings Director for local restaurant recommendations. cover six acres, and there are also more than 60 Make sure not to leave London without acres of gardens. sampling some traditional desserts—you might try a trifle (a layered dessert consisting Your guided tour will conclude at around of spongey cake, creamy custard, and fresh 11:30am, and you’ll have about an hour to berries), sticky toffee pudding (favored by the continue exploring the palace on your own. Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton), or Board your coach at around 12:45pm, and an Eton Mess, a fruit-and-cream concoction return to your hotel at about 2pm. supposedly invented by the blue-blooded Lunch: On your own—ask your Program residents of England’s premier boarding school Director for local restaurant recommendations. that is now enjoyed rich and poor alike.
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask Evening: You have the freedom to spend the your Program Director for recommendations. rest of your evening as you wish—ask your You might choose to visit the infamous Program Director for recommendations. Tower of London—William the Conqueror’s magnificent citadel, which offers almost 1,000 Day 5 London • Return to U.S. years of London history and has served as a • Included Meals: Breakfast fortress, prison, and museum for centuries in the middle of London. Here you’ll view the Breakfast: Served buffet-style at your hotel at preserved prison cells and the magnificent around 7:30am. crown jewels. Nearby is another of London’s Morning: After breakfast, your Program most beloved landmarks—the Tower Bridge. Director will coordinate your transfer to the This massive drawbridge, flanked by two airport for your flight home. striking towers, first opened in 1894, but is still considered the most spectacular of London’s many bridges.
OPTIONAL TOURS
Windsor Castle of England, as well as the magnificent State (Day 2 $110 per person) Apartments built for Charles II in the mid Venture to Windsor Castle, the largest and 1600s. Admire the apartments’ fine china, longest inhabited castle in the world. Founded art, and furniture before passing through St. by William the Conqueror in 1078, the castle is George’s Chapel, final resting place of many known to be the current royal family’s favorite royal family members. residence. As you explore the interior, as well Please note: St. George’s Chapel may be closed to as the lovely grounds perched on the River visitors during certain city services and events. Thames, consider the 900 years of history lived at Windsor. Your tour includes Queen Mary’s Doll House, built in 1924 for the Queen
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
39 Hampton Court (Day 4 $105 per person) Visit one of England’s most magnificent palaces—Hampton Court. Rich in royal history, Hampton Court offers a feast for the eyes, from the opulent State Apartments to the sprawling, manicured grounds. Enjoy a tour of the interior and exterior, and discover how Henry VIII and William III lived in the palace so many years ago. You’ll have time on your own to enjoy the famous garden maze and stroll amidst beautiful flowers and greenery.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
40
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP:
With the planning of any vacation comes the need to research and ask questions—and even more so with international travel. We’re here to SPW[4Y_SPQZWWZbTYR[LRP^dZ`ɪWWʭYOTYQZ]XL_TZY_SL_Z`]_]LaPWP]^ SLaPQZ`YOXZ^_MPYPʭNTLWL^_SPdɪaP[]P[L]POQZ]_ST^N]`T^PaLNL_TZY on subjects ranging from passports to weather, currency to recommended reading.
This is also a preview of the in-depth information that you’ll receive bSPYdZ`]P^P]aPdZ`]OP[L]_`]PZQ_ST^_]T[%Z`]ZʯNTLW?]T[3LYOMZZV^ which outline everything you’ll need to know before and during your vacation. What’s more, our Travel Counselors will be ready and eager to address any additional questions you may have.
With all of our resources available to you, enjoy peace of mind … and look forward to the incredible discoveries that await.
41 CONTENTS
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS...... 43
RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH ...... 45
MONEY MATTERS: LOCAL CURRENCY & TIPPING GUIDELINES . . . 48 Top 3 Suggestions
Local Currency
Tipping Guidelines
AIR, OPTIONAL TOURS & STAYING IN TOUCH ...... 53
PACKING: WHAT TO BRING & LUGGAGE LIMITS...... 57
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES ...... 63
ABOARD YOUR SHIP: CABIN FEATURES, DINING & SERVICES . . . . 66
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS: CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE . . . 71
Culture & Points to Know
Shopping
DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY ...... 84
RESOURCES: SUGGESTED READING & MOVIES...... 90
42 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Your Passport • Must be in good condition
• Must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S.
• Must have the required number of blank pages (details below)
• The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and Endorsements” are not acceptable
Need to Renew Your Passport? Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778, or visit their website at www.travel.state.gov for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at 1-800-556-9990 for help with your passport.
Recommended Blank Pages Please confirm that your passport has enough blank pages for this vacation.
• Main trip only: You will need 2 blank passport pages.
• Optional extensions to Paris, Brittany, or the Loire Valley: No additional blank pages needed.
• Optional extension to London: You will need an additional passport page, for a total of 3.
No Visas Required Travelers with a U.S. passport do not need any visas for this vacation, including the optional trip extensions.
Traveling Without a U.S. Passport? If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about visa requirements. We recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at 1-800-556-9990 or www.pvsinternational.org.
Traveling With a Minor? Some governments may require certain documentation for minors to enter and depart the country or to obtain a visa (if applicable). For further detail on the required documentation, please contact your local embassy or consulate.
43 Emergency Photocopies of Key Documents We recommend you carry color photocopies of key documents including the photo page of your passport plus any applicable visas, air itinerary, credit cards (front and back), and an alternative form of ID. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals.
If you plan to email this information to yourself, please keep in mind that email is not always secure; consider using password protection or encryption. Also email is not always available worldwide. As an alternative, you could load these documents onto a flash drive instead, which can do double-duty as a place to backup photos during your trip.
Overseas Taxes & Fees This tour may have taxes and fees that cannot be included in your airline ticket price because you are required to pay them in person onsite. All taxes are subject to change without notice and can be paid in cash (either U.S. or local currency). If applicable, you will receive a list of these fees with your Final Documents.
44 RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH
Keep Your Abilities in Mind Please review the information below prior to departing on this vacation. We reserve the right for our Program Directors to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home if their limitations are impacting the group’s experience.
GROUP SIZE • This trip has a group size of 38-45 travelers with our local Program Director exclusive to Grand Circle
PACING • 12 days, with 10 nights aboard the M/S Bizet, and a 1 single-night hotel stay
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS • Walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in 2-3 hours of physical activities each day, including stairs
• Not accessible for travelers using wheelchairs or scooters
• Travelers using walkers, crutches, or other mobility aids must travel with a companion who can assist them
• We reserve the right for Program Directors to restrict participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their limitations impact the group’s experience
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION • Unpaved roads, hilly terrain, and uneven walking surfaces, including slippery cobblestones, stairs, and sand
• Travel by 120-passenger river ship, and 49-seat coach
• Changes in water-level depths may require adjustments to your itinerary
CLIMATE • Daytime temperatures range from 50-80°F during cruising season
• July-August are the warmest months
• March and November weather can be unpredictable and change quickly
45 Health Check Feeling healthy and confident of your mobility is essential to fully enjoy your trip abroad. If you have ongoing medical conditions or concerns about your health, we highly recommend that you schedule a checkup with your personal physician at least six weeks in advance of your departure date.
• Discuss with your doctor any aspects of your itinerary that may affect your health and be guided by his or her advice. (You can use the “Keep Your Abilities in Mind” on the previous page as a guideline to discuss with him or her.)
• You may want to have a dental exam before your trip. A loose filling or developing cavity would be difficult to remedy while you are traveling.
• If you have a condition that requires special equipment or treatment, you must bring and be responsible for all necessary items related to your condition.
Vaccine Required
COVID-19 Grand Circle Cruise Line requires that all travelers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and are able provide proof of their vaccination upon arrival at their destination. A full vaccination is defined as having been inoculated at least 14 days prior to departure by an approved vaccine. This requirement is not contingent on the countries the tour visits, but a strict company policy due to the nature of the pandemic.
Traveling with Medications • Pack medications in your carry-on bag to avoid loss and to have them handy.
• Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers for a quicker security screen at the airport and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name to be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications.
We recommend checking with the State Department for medication restrictions by country: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel- Country-Information-Pages.html. (Pick the country and then follow the links to “Local Laws & Special Circumstances”; if you don’t see any medications specifically mentioned, then you can presume major U.S. brands should be OK).
Staying Healthy on Your Trip Jet Lag Tips
• Start your trip well-rested.
46 • Begin a gradual transition to your new time zone before you leave or switch to your destination time zone when you get on the plane.
• Attempt to sleep and eat according to the new schedule.
• Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before–and during– your flight.
• Drink plenty of water and/or fruit juice while flying
• Stretch your legs, neck, and back periodically while seated on the plane.
• After arrival, avoid the temptation to nap.
• Don’t push yourself to see a lot on your first day.
• Try to stay awake your first day until after dinner.
Allergies
If you have any serious allergies or dietary restrictions, we advise you to notify us at least 30 days prior to your departure. Please call our Traveler Support team at 1-800-321-2835, and we will communicate them to our regional office. Every effort will be made to accommodate you.
Water Unless you know that your stomach is particularly sensitive to changes in diet/water, tap water in France, England, and on board your ship is perfectly fine to drink.
47 MONEY MATTERS: LOCAL CURRENCY & TIPPING GUIDELINES
Top Three Tips • Carry a mix of different types of payments, such as local currency, an ATM card, and a credit card.
• Traveler’s checks are not recommended. They can be difficult to exchange and the commission fee for cashing them is quite high. It’s more practical to view them as a last resort in the event of a special situation.
• You will not be able to pay with U.S. dollars on this trip; you will need euros instead (and British pounds if you are taking the London extension).
Local Currency For current exchange rates, please refer to an online converter tool like www.xe.com/ currencyconverter, your bank, or the financial section of your newspaper.
Euro Countries The euro is the official currency in many member countries of the European Union. Unless otherwise listed, the countries you will be visiting will use the euro. Euro banknote and coin denominations are as follows:
• Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros
• Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents; 1 and 2 euros
United Kingdom The official currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling (GBP). One pound (£1) is divided into 100 pence (100p). This legal tender is used throughout Scotland, England, and Wales. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows:
• Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, and 50 pounds
• Coins: 1 and 2 pence (copper); 5, 10, 20, and 50 pence (silver); 1 and 2 pounds (silver/gold)
You may want to avoid 50 pound notes as these are not always accepted at smaller restaurants, cafes or shops.
How to Exchange Money If you want to exchange money before your trip, you can usually do so through your bank or at an exchange office. Your departure airport in the U.S., a travel agent, or an AAA office are also possible outlets. Or you can wait and change money on the trip instead—but it might be helpful to arrive with some local currency in case you run into a bank holiday or an “out of order” ATM.
48 On your trip, the easiest way is to withdraw funds from a local ATM. The ATM will give you local money and your bank at home will convert that into U.S. dollars.
You can also exchange cash at some hotels, large post offices, and money exchange offices. To exchange cash, you’ll usually need your passport and bills in good condition (not worn, torn, or dirty). New bills (post 2004) are best.
Please note that many banks in Europe will only exchange money for their own customers. Never exchange money on the street. All exchange methods involve fees, which may be built into the conversion rate; ask beforehand.
ATMs When using the ATM, keep in mind that it may only accept cards from local banks, and may not allow cash advances on credit cards; you might need to try more than one ATM or more than one card.
Many banks charge a fee of $1-$5 each time you use a foreign ATM. Others may charge you a percentage of the amount you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before you depart.
Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers.)
France: ATMs can be found throughout large cities and small towns in France.
United Kingdom: ATMs are common throughout the United Kingdom so ATM cards will give you a reliable payment method and ready access to local currency.
Credit & Debit Cards Even if you don’t plan on using a credit card during your trip, we still suggest that you bring one or two as a backup, especially if you are planning a large purchase (artwork, jewelry). We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (i.e. Visa, MasterCard, American Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the Discover card is accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.
France: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in France. For small purchases or markets, you may need cash instead.
United Kingdom: Visa and MasterCard credit cards are readily accepted (American Express is not commonly honored), but you should always inquire if your type of credit card is accepted before deciding on your purchase.
49 Using Your Credit Card in Europe By now most of us are used to the new credit cards with the embedded computer chip (the ones you insert instead of swiping). But in Europe—where they’ve had this type of card longer than us—these credit cards usually require a PIN (personal identification number) to make a purchase. And in contrast, most U.S. credit cards either do not require a PIN or don’t have one. So what do you do if you want make a purchase with your credit card in Europe?
Don’t worry. 90% of the time you won’t need to do anything special. You’ll insert your card and the purchase will go through as normal. Often you won’t even be asked to sign anything.
But bring more than one form of payment with you. For those rare cases when your credit card doesn’t work, the best plan is to already have a backup form of payment with you. Debit cards are a good alternative as they have a PIN. And there’s always cash.
Consider asking your credit card company. You can try contacting your credit card company before you leave to see if they will issue you a PIN. Many won’t—but at least you’ll know. You could also try looking at their website to see if they have guidance about getting a PIN.
Notify Card Providers of Upcoming Travel Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another country. To avoid an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do this online.
You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of your card—most 1 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!
Onboard Ship
Two Separate Bills Will be Issued • Shipboard account: This bill is for any on board purchases (drinks, souvenirs, etc.) and is calculated in euros. This bill is payable at the front desk by cash or credit/debit card only. For cash, we accept euros. For credit/debit cards, we accept MasterCard and Visa. Other forms of payment, such as checks, Discover, and American Express, are not accepted.
• Optional tour account: This bill is for any optional tours taken during the trip and is calculated in U.S. dollars. This bill is paid with your Program Director (they will have you fill out a form) by credit/debit card only; other forms of payments such as cash and checks are not accepted. For more information on optional tours—including which cards we accept for payment—see the “Preparing for Your Trip” chapter.
• Please note: Due to limitations with Discover Card in France, we cannot accept it as payment for onboard purchases or for optional tours on river cruises in France.
50 Payments made by credit card may take up to three months to process. We ask that you use a credit card that will not expire until three months after your trip ends. Because our headquarters are in Boston, the charges may appear to be from Boston or might be labeled as “OPT Boston” (depending on your credit card company).
Exchange Services: Policy Update Due to international banking laws, we are no longer able to exchange money onboard the ship. If you need to obtain local currency, please see the “How to Exchange Money” section for helpful tips and information.
Tipping Guidelines Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. For those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines. All tips below are quoted in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local currency (this is usually preferred) or in U.S. dollars. Do not use personal or traveler’s check for tips.
• GCCL Program Director: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your Grand Circle Program Director at the end of your trip. As a guideline, many travelers give $5-$8 USD (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each day their Program Director is with them. Please note that tips for your Program Director can only be in the form of cash. If you are taking any of the optional extensions, your Program Director during the extension(s) may not be the same as the one on your main trip.
• Shipboard Crew: We recommend a flat tip of $10-$12 U.S. per traveler, per day. You’ll give this tip once—at the end of your cruise—and it will be pooled among the entire crew. Policy Update: Due to international banking laws, we are no longer able to process crew tips on a credit card; crew tips can only be in the form of cash.
• Housekeeping Staff at Hotels: We recommend $1 per traveler, per day. (This is for hotels only; on the ship Housekeeping are part of crew, so you don’t need to tip them separately.)
• Included in Your Trip Price: Gratuities are included for local guides and motorcoach drivers on your main trip, extensions, and all optional tours.
Time at Leisure: When you are exploring on your own, it’s useful to know when to tip and how much, because local customs often differ from the U.S. Here are a few helpful guidelines for the most common services a traveler might use:
• Taxis: Tipping is not customary, but many locals will round up the fare and let the driver keep the change. If the driver helps you with heavy luggage, then 10% is a nice gesture.
• Restaurants, cafes, and bars: The tip for the waiter or bartender is usually included in the prices or added on as a service fee. Look for a statement on the menu like service compris which means “service is included”, or for a service charge on the bill. If you would like to leave a tip on top of the service fee (or in the rare case when the service is not included) then 10% would be considered generous.
51 • Public Restrooms: Most public restrooms in Europe have attendants that clean and stock the supplies. It is customary to leave a small tip for them—usually half of whatever currency is in use in that country (i.e. half a euro, half a pound)—so hold on to those coins! Some restrooms are pay-toilets; you pay the staff at the entrance or drop the appropriate coin into the slot on the stall door. Many restaurants, cafes, and shops offer pay-toilets only or reserve their restrooms for patrons only.
52 AIR, OPTIONAL TOURS & STAYING IN TOUCH
Land Only Travelers & Personalized Air
Quick Definitions • Land Only: You will be booking your own international flights. Airport transfers are not included.
• Air-Inclusive: You booked international air with us. Airport transfers are included as long as you didn’t customize your trip’s dates (see next bullet).
• Personalized Air: You booked international air with us, and have customized it in some way. If you have customized your trip’s dates to arrive early, stay longer, or stop on your own in a connecting city, airport transfers will NOT be included. You must also arrange your own accommodations for any additional nights. For your convenience, a preliminary list of your included hotels is available on your My Account at www.gct.com/myaccount under “My Reservations”.
Airport Transfers Can Be Purchased For eligible flights, airport transfers may be purchased separately as an optional add-on, subject to availability. To be eligible, your flight(s) must meet the following requirements:
• You must fly into or fly home from the same airport as Grand Circle travelers who purchased included airfare.
• Your flight(s) must arrive/depart on the same day that the group arrives or departs.
Airport transfers can be purchased up to 45 days prior to your departure; they are not available for purchase onsite. To learn more, or purchase airport transfers, please call our Traveler Support team at 1-800-321-2835.
If you don’t meet the requirements above, you’ll need to make your own transfer arrangements. We suggest the Rome to Rio website as a handy resource: www.rome2rio.com.
Air Inclusive Travelers If you have purchased international air with Grand Circle Cruise Line, there are some points that may be helpful for you to know.
• U.S. Departure: If you are among a group of ten or more GCCL travelers who depart the U.S. from your international gateway city, it is our goal to have a GCCL Representative assist you at the U.S. airport with the check-in of your flight. Unless there are extenuating circumstances beyond our control, the Representative will be at the check-in counter three hours before your departure time. If you are flying domestically before your international flight, the representative will be stationed at the check-in counter for your departing international flight, not at the domestic arrival gate.
53 • Overseas Arrival: Once you arrive overseas, you’ll need to collect your luggage and clear customs. A Grand Circle representative will meet you outside of customs and assist you with your transfer to the hotel or ship. Important note on porters: Airport porters are NOT allowed in the baggage claim area. On arrival, you must take your luggage off the baggage carousel and load it onto a cart, which you will then move through customs. When you exit customs, you’ll handle your cart until reaching your transfer vehicle. Your driver will load your luggage into the transfer vehicle.
• U.S. Return: If you are among a group of ten or more GCCL travelers who return to the same U.S. gateway city, a GCCL Representative will meet you as you exit Customs and help you find taxis, buses, hotel accommodations, or connecting flights. Again, it is our goal to have our GCCL Representative waiting to assist your group. In rare instances, unforeseen circumstances may prevent this service.
• Flying with a Travel Companion: If you’re traveling with a companion from a different household, and both of you are beginning and ending your trip at the same airport on the same dates, let us know you’d like to travel together and we’ll make every effort to arrange this (please note, however, that this is not always possible). If you request any changes to your flights, please be sure that both you and your companion tell us that you still want to fly together.
Optional Tours Optional tours are additional add-on tours that allow you to personalize your vacation by tailoring it to your tastes and needs. And if you decide not to join an optional tour? Then you’ll have free time to relax or explore on your own—it’s about options, not obligations.
What You Need to Know • All optional tours are subject to change and availability.
• Optional tours that are reserved onsite can be paid for using credit/debit cards only. We accept MasterCard and Visa on all trips, and Discover on all trips except river cruises in France. We can also take MasterCard or Visa debit cards as long as the card allows you to sign for purchases. (You won’t be able to enter a PIN.) We do not take Amex, cash, or checks for optional tours.
• To ensure that you are charged in U.S. dollars, your payment will be processed by our U.S. headquarters in Boston. This process can take up to three months, so we ask that you only use a card that will still be valid three months after your trip is over. The charge may appear on your credit card statement as being from Boston, MA or may be labeled as “OPT Boston”.
• We will give you details on the optional tours while you’re on the trip. But if you’d like to look over descriptions of them earlier, you can do so at any time by referring to your Day- to-Day Itinerary (available online by signing into My Account at www.gct.com/myaccount).
54 Communicating with Home from Abroad
Cell Phones If you want to use your cell phone on the trip, check with your phone provider to see if your phone and service will work outside of the U.S. It may turn out to be cheaper to rent an international phone or buy a SIM card onsite. If you want to use a local SIM, just make certain your phone is “unlocked”, meaning it can accept a local SIM card. If your cell is “unlocked” then you will be able to purchase a local SIM for it and then buy minutes with “Pay as You Go” cards, so that you have a local contact number for your friends and family.
Calling Apps Another option is to use a smartphone app like Skype or FaceTime. These services are usually less expensive than making a traditional call, but you’ll need a Wi-Fi connection and the calls may count towards your phone plan’s data allowance. Many smartphones—and some tablets or laptops—come with one of these apps pre-installed or you can download them for free from the appropriate apps store.
Calling Cards & 1-800 Numbers When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, a prepaid calling card can be useful because it circumvents unexpected charges from the hotel. Calling cards purchased locally are typically the best (less expensive, more likely to work with the local phones, etc.). One reminder: Do not call U.S. 1-800 numbers outside the continental United States. This can result in costly long distance fees, since 1-800 numbers do not work outside the country.
Internet Access and Email Some public places—restaurants, cafes, hotel lobbies—provide complimentary wireless Internet access (WiFi) for customers. While sailing Internet access may be unavailable, depending on locks, bridges, and regional remoteness. Internet access should be most consistently available when the ship is docked in larger cities.
Receiving Calls from Home To ensure you are available during your trip to friends and relatives at home, you will receive two copies of your hotel list, including phone numbers, with your Final Documents. One copy is for you to bring, and one is to leave behind with friends or relatives in case they need to contact you during the trip.
55 How to Call Overseas When calling overseas from the U.S., dial 011 for international exchange, then the country code (indicated by a plus sign: +), and then the number. Note that foreign phone numbers may not have the same number of digits as U.S. numbers; even within a country the number of digits can vary depending on the city and if the phone is a land line or cell phone.
France: +33 United Kingdom: +44
56 PACKING: WHAT TO BRING & LUGGAGE LIMITS
Luggage Limits
MAIN TRIP LIMITS
Pieces per person One checked bag and one carry-on bag per person.
Weight restrictions Varies by airline. The current standard is 50 lbs for checked bags and 15 lbs for carry-on bags.
Size Restrictions Varies by airline. Measured in linear inches (length+width+depth). Generally, 62 linear inches is the checked bag limit; carry-on limit is 45 linear inches.
Luggage Type A sturdy, fabric-sided suitcase with built-in wheels and lockable zippers is recommended.
TRIP EXTENSION(S) LIMITS
Same as the main trip.
REMARKS/SUGGESTIONS
One suitcase and one carry-on bag per person: Due to the space limitations on bus transfers, you’ll be restricted to one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person. This is to ensure that we have room for everyone’s luggage. We ask that you abide by this limit to avoid inconveniencing your fellow travelers and prevent additional airlines luggage fees (which are your responsibility). Most airlines now charge to check more than one suitcase per person for flights to Europe and other international flights.
Luggage rules: Luggage rules and limits are set by governmental and airline policy. Enforcement of the rules may include spot checks or may be inconsistent. However one thing is the same across the board: If you are found to have oversized or overweight luggage, you will be subject to additional fees, to be assessed by—and paid to—the airline in question.
Don’t Forget: • These luggage limits may change. If the airline(s) notify us of any changes, we will include an update in your Final Documents booklet.
57 • It’s a good idea to reconfirm baggage restrictions and fees directly with the airline a week or so prior to departure. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website in the FAQ section.
• Baggage fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines.
• The luggage limits above are based on your regional flights, which may be less than your international flights. Even if your international airline offers a larger weight limit, you will need to pack according to the lower restrictions.
Your Luggage • Checked Luggage: Consider a duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase. Look for one with heavy nylon fabric, wrap-around handles, built-in wheels, and a heavy duty lockable zipper. Due to space limitations on our motorcoaches, you are allowed one piece of checked luggage per person. Porterage at airports and hotels is provided for one bag per person. All bags should have luggage tags.
• Please note: Hotels in Munich will no longer be able to provide porterage service for groups with less than 3 travelers. If you are arriving on your own, you will be responsible for carrying your luggage to and from your hotel room.
• Carry-on Bag: You are allowed one carry-on bag per person. We suggest a tote or small backpack that can be used as both a carry-on bag for your flight and to carry your daily necessities—water bottle, camera, etc—during your daily activities.
• Locks: For flights that originate in the U.S., you can either use a TSA-approved lock or leave your luggage unlocked. Outside of the U.S. we strongly recommend locking your luggage as a theft-prevention measure.
Clothing Suggestions: Functional Tips • Travel light: A good rule of thumb is to gather together everything you want to bring; then take half of that. To have a varied travel wardrobe, yet keep your luggage light, we recommend you select a color scheme and pack color-coordinated clothing items that can be mixed to create different outfits.
• Pack casual clothes: Comfortable, informal apparel is acceptable at each of your destinations. At dinner, you will not need to don “dressy” clothing; men do not need jackets or ties and women do not need fancy dresses. You may want one or two “smart casual” outfits for the Welcome Reception or Farewell Dinner, but it’s completely up to you.
• Consider clothing designed for travel, sports, or camping: With modern fabrics, lightweight packing for comfort and protection through a wide range of weather is easy.
• Plan to dress in layers on shore excursions. Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions: warm days with sun, chilly temperatures with showers, and evenings that could dip into the 40s or 50s, depending on your travel season.
58 • Bring rain gear: Regardless of your month of travel, rainfall is certainly a possibility. We suggest you bring a folding umbrella and waterproof shell. Water-resistant walking shoes are advantageous in case heavy downpours pass through.
• Good walking shoes are critical. This program features many included tours that follow steep, unpaved or cobbled routes; and even an average day of light sightseeing or shopping can put great demands on your feet. If you prefer more ankle support, take light hiking boots. In case you get caught in the rain, we suggest you bring an extra pair of walking shoes, and rain boots or galoshes. Aboard ship, you’ll want non-slip shoes with rubber soles.
What to Bring We have included suggestions from former travelers to help you pack. These lists are only jumping-off points—they offer recommendations based on experience, but not requirements. You may also want to consult the “Climate” chapter of this handbook.
Your cabin already has: Shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer, soap, body lotion, shower cap, and towels. And don’t forget a reusable water bottle—you’ll need it to take advantage of any refills we offer as we are working to eliminate single-use plastic bottles on all of our trips.
Recommended Clothing Shirts: A mixture of short and long-sleeved shirts to layer Trousers, jeans, or skirts Comfortable walking shoes and/or water resistant shoes Light rain jacket/windbreaker with hood Sleepwear Socks and undergarments A jacket or sweater, depending on the time of year
Essential Items Daily essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, hairbrush or comb, shaving items, deodorant, skin care products, etc.
Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses and your prescription Sunglasses with a neck strap Sunscreen, SPF 15 or stronger
59 Travel money bag or money belt Wide-brim sun hat or visor Pocket-size tissues Moist towelettes and/or anti-bacterial hand lotion Light folding umbrella Photocopies of passport, air ticket, credit cards Camera, spare batteries, and memory cards
Medicines Your own prescription medicines Vitamins Cold remedies: Sudafed/Dristan Pain relievers: Ibuprofen/naproxen/aspirin Laxatives: Senokot/Ex-Lax Stomach upset: Pepto-Bismol/Mylanta Anti-diarrheal: Imodium Band-Aids, Moleskin foot pads Antibiotics: Neosporin/Bacitracin
Optional Gear Compact binoculars Hanging toiletry bag with pockets Washcloth Hand-wash laundry soap (Woolite), clothespins/travel clothesline/stopper Electrical transformer and plug adapter–see “Regional Electricity” section. Reading materials
60 Travel journal/note pad Swimsuit, if your ship/hotel has a pool or whirlpool Addresses for postcards Photos, small gift for Home-Hosted visit Phrase book Pocket-size calculator for exchange rates Insect repellent For hotel stays: Many hotels will provide hair dryers, but not all. If a hair dryer is essential to you consider a travel-size version. Hair dryers are provided on your ship.
Electricity When traveling overseas, the voltage is usually different and the plugs might not be the same shape.
Voltage Aboard the ship, cabins are equipped with 220-volt outlets. In your bathroom you will find a 110- volt outlet; this outlet is only for low-voltage appliances, like electric shavers. (Your bathroom also comes equipped with a hair dryer).
Electricity in France and the United Kingdom is 220-240 volts. In the U.S. it is 110 volts. Most of the things a traveler will want to plug in—battery chargers, MP3 players, tablets or computers— can run off both 110 and 220-240. But you should check the item or the owner’s guide first to confirm this before you plug it in. If you have something that needs 110 volts—like a shaver or a hairdryer—you can bring a transformer to change the current. (But transformers tend to burn out, so it might be better to leave whatever it is at home.)
Plugs The shape of plugs will vary from country to country. To plug something from the U.S. into a local socket you’ll need an adapter that fits between the plug and the socket. Different plug shapes are named by letters of the alphabet. Standard U.S. plugs are Type A and Type B; standard European plugs are Type C, E, and F. Of the three, a Type C adapter is the most useful as it fits into Type E and F sockets. Type C is usually what is sold in stores as a European adapter.
Aboard ship, the plugs in your cabin bedroom are Type C.
61 Note that if you are taking the extension in London (which has a different plug than the rest of Europe), it may be easier to purchase an all-in-one, universal adapter/converter combo. Versatile and lightweight, these can usually be found at your local electronics goods or hardware stores. Sometimes you can buy them at large retailers too, like Target or Walmart. If you forget to bring an adapter, you might also find them for sale at the airport when you arrive at your destination.
For your reference, here is the list of plugs for the countries on this trip:
France: C
United Kingdom: G
Type C Type G
62 CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Paris, France: The City of Light has about the same weather as our Middle Atlantic States, though it’s usually not warmer than 75° F, or colder than 30° F. The main characteristic of the city’s weather is its changeability. Bright skies can abruptly turn cloudy and a chilly drizzle ensue; then just as quickly as the rain begins it will end.
Another volatile aspect of Parisian weather is the blasts of rapidly moving air—probably the result of a wind tunnel effect caused by the city’s long boulevards being bordered by buildings of uniform height. But other than the occasional winds and rain (which add an undeniable drama to many of the city’s panoramas), Paris offers among the most pleasant weather conditions of any capital in Europe, with a highly tolerable average temperature of 53°.
The early spring can still be on the cool side, but later on in the season, temperatures are usually comfortable, often reaching into the low 60s. Summers are rarely overly warm—the upper 70s is the norm—though a spell of hot weather in the 90s can settle in for a few days, or even a week or two in July and August. Early autumn is slightly cooler, with temperatures edging toward the 50s. By November, it may dip into the 40s. Rain is a common occurrence year-round.
Saint Malo, France (Brittany): Situated in the northwest of the France on the Atlantic coast, Brittany is exposed to a variable climate. Average temperatures from mid-May to mid-September are in the high 60s to low 70s. Off season, spring and autumn temperatures average in the high 50s to low 60s. For this coastal climate it’s advisable to dress in layers and keep rain gear handy— even in summer months.
Blois, France (Loire Valley): The climate is mild most of the year and the river acts as France’s weather demarcation line, separating northern and southern climates. The river has a significant effect on the region, adding several degrees to its temperature. The climate can be cool with springtime frosts while wine harvest months may have rain. Summers are hot; however the Atlantic ocean can moderate the temperature with cool breezes.
England: The weather across England can be unreliable and unpredictable, with lovely sun- drenched mornings regularly turning into damp, overcast afternoons—and vice versa. Still, legends about incessant rain in England are exaggerated. London, in fact, has less rainfall accumulation than Rome, which is known as a sunny city. It’s just that in London, the rain is spread over more days. The British capital is very much a city of the temperate zone. With occasional exceptions, London’s summers tend to be moderately warm, with few days having temperatures above 75° F; winters as well tend to be moderately cold, with few days dropping below 30° F. Spring and autumn are generally comfortable, with little more than a sweater or light overcoat required. The weather in York and Bath is similar.
Weather Conditions and River Depths Throughout the river cruise season, weather conditions affect river depths, and water levels may require adjustments to your itinerary. When river depths rise or fall during your River Cruise, Grand Circle Cruise Line will be required to adjust your itinerary for your safety and to adhere to
63 the current governmental and nautical requirements. Though we strive to adhere to our planned itinerary, we may not always be able to follow it exactly as planned. The sequence of ports visited and the days on which included features and optional tours occur may vary.
Climate Averages & Online Forecast The following charts reflect the average climate as opposed to exact weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. An extreme heat wave or cold snap could fall outside these ranges. As your departure approaches, we encourage you to go online to www.gct.com/myaccount for your 10-day forecast.
Average Daily High/Low Temperatures (°F), Humidity & Monthly Rainfall
MONTH PARIS, FRANCE ROUEN, FRANCE
Temp. High-Low% Relative Average # of Days Temp. High- Low% Relative Average # of Days Humidity (am-pm) with Rainfall Humidity (am-pm) with Rainfall JAN 45 to 37 89 to 79 20 44 to 34 93 to 84 17 FEB 47 to 37 87 to 71 16 45 to 34 91 to 77 14 MAR 54 to 42 87 to 65 18 51 to 38 92 to 70 15 APR 60 to 45 86 to 58 17 57 to 41 91 to 64 13 MAY 67 to 52 86 to 57 16 63 to 47 92 to 66 13 JUN 73 to 57 86 to 58 17 69 to 51 93 to 67 13 JUL 77 to 60 85 to 54 13 73 to 55 93 to 63 13 AUG 77 to 60 87 to 51 12 73 to 55 94 to 62 13 SEP 70 to 55 91 to 59 14 67 to 51 96 to 69 16 OCT 61 to 49 92 to 69 17 59 to 46 96 to 78 16 NOV 51 to 42 91 to 76 17 50 to 39 95 to 84 17 DEC 46 to 38 89 to 81 19 44 to 35 93 to 87 16
64 MONTH HONFLEUR, FRANCE SAINT MALO, FRANCE
Temp. High- Low% Relative Average # of Days Temp. High-Low% Relative Average # of Days Humidity (am-pm) with Rainfall Humidity (avg) with Rainfall JAN 45 to 40 -- 27 46 to 32 -- 19 FEB 53 to 42 -- 12 49 to 32 -- 16 MAR 54 to 44 -- 25 56 to 35 -- 17 APR 58 to 44 -- 18 60 to 38 -- 18 MAY 62 to 51 -- 9 69 to 46 -- 17 JUN 66 to 56 -- 10 75 to 52 -- 16 JUL 72 to 61 -- 16 79 to 55 -- 15 AUG 70 to 60 -- 10 79 to 54 -- 16 SEP 67 to 55 -- 10 71 to 47 -- 17 OCT 63 to 51 -- 16 63 to 44 -- 19 NOV 52 to 44 -- 18 51 to 36 -- 20 DEC 50 to 45 -- 24 46 to 33 -- 19
MONTH BLOIS, FRANCE LONDON, ENGLAND
Temp. High- Low% Relative Average # of Days Temp. High-Low% Relative Average # of Days Humidity (avg) with Rainfall Humidity (am-pm) with Rainfall JAN 46 to 36 -- 9 45 to 34 90 to 80 23 FEB 47 to 35 -- 7 46 to 34 90 to 74 19 MAR 54 to 37 -- 9 52 to 37 91 to 68 21 APR 61 to 41 -- 7 57 to 39 90 to 60 20 MAY 67 to 47 -- 9 63 to 44 90 to 59 18 JUN 76 to 54 -- 5 69 to 49 90 to 61 18 JUL 79 to 56 -- 7 73 to 53 91 to 59 17 AUG 77 to 56 -- 8 73 to 53 94 to 64 18 SEP 72 to 51 -- 6 59 to 44 93 to 72 21 OCT 63 to 47 -- 11 59 to 44 93 to 72 21 NOV 51 to 39 -- 10 51 to 39 92 to 78 22 DEC 44 to 34 -- 6 46 to 35 90 to 82 22
65 ABOARD YOUR SHIP: CABIN FEATURES, DINING & SERVICES ON BOARD
M/S Bizet The Bizet’s design incorporates suggestions from Grand Circle Cruise Line travelers—and it offers a host of amenities to make you feel right at home. Designed to carry no more than 120 passengers, the ship’s size ensures the ease of maneuverability that’s so important when entering small river ports. Amenities include a restaurant with panoramic windows, sun deck with lounge chairs, a library, bar, lounge, dance floor, and small souvenir shop.
Included features of all Grand Circle Cruise Line European river ship cabins:
• A layout of at least 150 square feet
• All outside cabins
• Individual climate control (heat and air conditioning)
• Twin beds that ship staff convert into a daytime couch
• Storage space under beds of 57 inches x 22.8 inches x 11.8 inches (length + width + height)
• Sufficient closet and dresser space
• Color TV, including CNN programming and a bow camera for ship-front views
• Direct-dial international telephone
• Hair dryer
• Desk
• Private bath with shower
Cabins on the Soprano deck have small balconies with sliding door; those on the Alto deck have two picture windows. For safety reasons, cabin windows do not open.
An important word: While our fleet features larger-than-usual riverboat cabins, please keep in mind that these ships are river vessels, not large ocean cruise ships. Riverboat cabins, in comparison, are relatively small, and ship amenities, in general, are comfortable but not lavish.
Cabin Assignments You will receive confirmation of your deck and/or cabin category upfront in writing; it will be on your invoice and online in My Account at www.gct.com/myaccount. However, your cabin number may not be assigned until you arrive onboard the ship. (This is normal procedure for ships in many parts of the world, including Europe.) If there’s no cabin number on your invoice or online, you can presume it will be assigned later and communicated to you when you board.
66 Dining You’ll enjoy fine cuisine and excellent views in your ship’s dining room, featuring a warm decor of dark woods, rich carpeting, and white-linen and china table settings. Your ship’s daily service includes a breakfast buffet, lunch, and a more formal dinner. Our professional chefs will create unique menus for you that feature regional specialties. Complimentary house wine, house beer, and a selection of soft drinks are included. In addition, a selection of other fine wines and beer is available for purchase, starting at approximately $23-40 per bottle (prices vary according to vintage). Travelers may also bring a bottle of their own favorite wine to dinner to enjoy at their table. Should you care to avail yourself of this service, there will be a corkage fee of approximately $10 per bottle, charged to your cabin account.
Please note that if you bring your own alcohol aboard, it can only be consumed in the dining room as described above, or in your cabin. Consumption of alcohol purchased outside the ship is not permitted in the lounge or public areas. We also offer complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day, available at meals and from the machine in the reception area.
Open-table, single-seating for all meals: Each meal is open seating—reservations of any kind are not accepted. Dinner has only one designated time for its open seating, announced each day aboard ship.
Dining times: Dining times for all meals may vary depending on the day’s sightseeing and sailing schedule, but in general, meal times are as follows:
• Early riser breakfast: 6:30-7:30 am
• Breakfast: 7:30-9:00 am
• Lunch: 1:00-2:30 pm
• Dinner: 7:00-9:00 pm
Special diets & celebrations: Special diets, such as low-cholesterol or vegetarian, can be accommodated, as well as the recognition of an anniversary or birthday. Please call Grand Circle Cruise Line to submit your request no later than 45 days prior to departure. Religious dietary regimens, such as kosher or halal meals, cannot be prepared aboard ship.
Dress code: The dining-room dress code is casual, though most travelers dress nicely for the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Farewell Dinner.
Non-smoking policy: The entire dining room is non-smoking at all times.
Embarkation/Disembarkation On the day of disembarkation, your cabin will no longer be available after breakfast. You may sit in the ship’s lounge or on the sun deck until disembarkation.
67 Dock and Landing Etiquette River waterways are simply not big enough to support large landing docks such as those built on ocean shorelines. It is common for river ships to tie up alongside each other at some piers— particularly in ports where docking area is restricted. While we try to arrange the most convenient mooring available in each port of call, outboard boats may occasionally obstruct views, and you may have to step across other ships when you want to go ashore.
Headsets During your trip, complimentary headsets, or Whispers receivers, are provided on our guided tours through the cities we visit. These receivers and headsets allow you to hear your Program Director and our local guides better. If use a hearing aid or have strong preferences for headphones, we highly encourage you to bring your own headsets/ear buds with you. The plug size is usually the same as that used by iPods, computer jacks, etc.
Wireless Internet Access Limited Wireless Internet service is available for free in the cabins and common areas on board your Grand Circle Cruise Line ship. If you want to use the Wireless Internet connection you’ll need to bring your own device (laptop/tablet/netbook) — ships do not rent or loan these devices. To use the Wireless Internet service, please visit Reception after you board for access information. Shipboard access is subject to the challenges of travel: ship location, signal availability, and usage volume on board will affect connectivity and speed. The ship’s Internet connection demands a strong 3G cell phone signal, which is unavailable in many of the areas we visit. You can expect disruptions of both long and short duration.
Laundry & Linen Service Laundry service is available for a fee (currently it costs about 2 euros per shirt). Please note that neither self-service laundry facilities nor dry cleaning services are available. There will be one change of bed linens during your cruise. Towels are changed daily.
Medical Care Our entire fleet adheres to stringent European safety standards. In addition to an emergency call button in all cabins, ships also feature fully staffed reception desks, 24 hours a day.
Onboard Activities During your cruise you’ll enjoy exclusive Discovery Series events, including group activities that relate to the region, theme dinners, organized discussions, and talks on upcoming ports of call.
68 Recreational Facilities These include a sun deck, library, and lounge with bar and dance floor. The bar is open from 9 am to 11 pm, and features both complimentary drinks (soft drinks, house beer, house wine, and non-alcoholic cocktails/beer) and drinks for purchase (spirits, alcoholic cocktails, bottled beers, and a selection of wines). Prices are in Euros.
Bicycles We’re pleased to offer complimentary bicycle rentals onboard your ship for use during free time, including all of the necessary safety gear, such as a helmet, brightly-colored safety vest, and a lock. Because there is a limited supply of bicycles available, they will be offered on a first-come first-served basis. For more information or if you are interested in using one of the bicycles, please speak to the Front Desk staff or Hotel Manager onboard your ship.
Telephone Services To make telephone calls from the ship, you will be charged on your shipboard account on the last day of the cruise. Phone calls are directly from your cabin and through satellite. We advise you to use it only for an emergency, as this is a very expensive service (for example, a call to New York City would cost about $3.75 per minute). (Phone Calling Cards cannot be used over the ship’s phone system.)
Smoking/Non-Smoking Policy All cabins are non-smoking. Smoking is only permitted outside on the sun deck. Smoking is not allowed anywhere else on the ships.
Elevator/Chairlift The ship has an elevator, which runs between the Alto and Soprano Decks. A chairlift operates from the Soprano Deck to the sun deck (or you can use the staircase to the sun deck, which has one flight of 10-12 steps). The chairlift is a single-seat transport that slides up the staircase banister.
Shore Excursions Many sightseeing tours are included on your cruise. Other optional tours are available for purchase. Your Program Director will provide information on these optional excursions on your arrival. Please note that optional tours can only be purchased with a credit card.
Lost & Found Any lost or forgotten items found on board the ship will be held for 90 days from disembarkation. After 90 days, all unclaimed items will be discarded or donated.
69 Ship Specifications
M/S Bizet • History: Built in 2002
• Size: 366x38 ft
• Capacity: 120 passengers, 34 crew members
• Layout: 60 cabins, 3 decks; Elevator-yes
70 ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS: CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE
Your Program Director Grand Circle Cruise Line is committed to showing you a destination through the perspective of those who live, work, and play there. How better to do that than to have a resident with you every step of the way? We are proud to be the only cruise line to provide you the dedicated services of an expert Program Director, a resident or native of the country who is delighted to share their in-depth knowledge of local history, culture, and hidden gems.
Fluent in English and skilled in fostering camaraderie among travelers, our Program Directors are constantly cited by our travelers are as the main reason they continue to travel with us. During your cruise, you’ll enjoy multiple Program Directors aboard your ship, who will each be with you and your group of 25-47 travelers throughout your journey—both on ship and on land. And with personal headsets on every included and optional tour, you’ll be able to enjoy their perspective and enthusiasm as you explore at a level deeper than most Americans go.
French Culture It would be hard to find someone who was not familiar with at least some aspects of French culture. Few nations have surpassed France’s legacy when it comes to exporting art, literature, fashion, cuisine, film, and entire schools of intellectual thought. But that doesn’t mean that French culture has not been misunderstood.
For example, the French are justly proud of their cultural heritage, and that pride is often embodied in the nation’s unofficial symbol, the Gallic rooster. But the flip side of Gallic pride is the stereotype of French snobbery. The French very much believe in their national motto of Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity). But in their daily interactions, the French are rather formal with people outside their social circle, and they follow a strict set of manners to avoid social missteps (faux pas). That mannerly approach, combined with the extreme directness of their language, makes many visitors jump to the conclusion that the French are cold or arrogant. Au contraire, when you get to know a French person, that sense of decorum generally takes a back seat to affectionate and loyal friendships.
When you get to that stage, you’ll have to master the art of the French air kiss or faire la bise. This is how French people greet acquaintances, by leaning in and gently brushing their right, then left cheeks together while making a subtle kissing sound with their lips. If someone wishes you hello or goodbye with la bise, consider it a compliment!
Most people in France share a strong appreciation for the arts and intellectual discourse. A lot of that is going on whenever you walk into a café, where people will be engaged in lively conversations for what seems like hours. There’s an historical precedent for this, for during the 18th century, France was the epicenter of the Enlightenment. It was an era that gave us radical new philosophies, science and art based on the sovereignty of reason, and empiricism. The French openness to new ideas is evident in their embrace of innovative artistry— from the Impressionists to Dadaism to Abstract Expressionism and beyond. The French brothers Louis and
71 Auguste Lumière are generally considered the inventors of modern cinema, and their legacy has been expanded by a host of acclaimed filmmakers from Abel Gance to Jean Renoir to Jean-Luc Godard to Francois Truffaut and too many others to list.
When it comes to gastronomy, it goes without saying that the French have elevated their cuisine to an art form. The French have always considered dining as something worthy of one’s time as opposed to being a necessity or even a sinful indulgence. They appreciate every morsel of their meal on a sensory level, for the technique of the chef, and for what that dish may represent in terms of national, regional or just family history. They are particular about all these things, and especially, about the freshness and quality of ingredients. But because they also see chefs as artists, they delight in innovative culinary interpretations of classic dishes. So when you sit down to dine in France, you are not just consuming a meal, you are tapping into the French spirit.
Religion and Religious Observance It is estimated that 63–66% of French people identify as Catholics, with another 7–9% identifying as Muslims. The second largest group are those who claim to be unaffiliated with any religion (23–28%), followed by small numbers of Jews, Buddhists, and others. That does not mean that religion has not impacted everyday customs. For example, people do have church weddings, baptisms and religious funeral rites. But most French people consider belief to be a private matter, and do not attend church regularly.
All these figures are estimates because the government has not officially collected any data on religious preferences since 1972. This all has to do with a very important aspect of French culture called laïcité. You could translate it as secularism, but it goes deeper than that. Laïcité is the complete separation of religious spheres from public spheres. Its underlying aim is to ensure religious freedom for all, and it is constitutionally enshrined. But laïcité is not without controversy. The concept has come under fire as France has become less homogeneously Christian. Some critics say it actually impedes religious freedom, and they cite the 2004 ban that made it illegal to display conspicuous religious symbols in public schools or civil workplaces. In addition to banning the wearing of crucifixes, the ruling forbade the wearing of the hijab, the traditional head covering worn by observant Muslim women.
Language The official language spoken throughout France is French. Even in places where people occasionally speak a regional dialect, all official communications are in French. The most widely spoken regional languages in France are the German dialects along the border (such as Alsacien); Megreb (an Arabic-French mix from North Africa); and Occitan, a Gallo-Romance language spoken in some southern areas such as Languedoc, Gascony, and parts of Provence. In Normandy, the Norman language is sometimes used, as are Basque and Catalan in some parts of France that border the Pyrenees. Though some regional words have filtered into common usage, the vast majority of people speak French as a first language.
English is the most common foreign language, spoken by more than 39% of people. You may have heard the stereotype that the French will refuse to speak English with you, even if they understand it. This is not true. However, it is true that the French are very proud of their language
72 (it was once the language of international diplomacy) and they are mindful about preserving it. So if you make even the slightest effort to speak a few words in French, your hosts will be very appreciative.
Beyond the basic French you may have learned in school, there are many colorful contemporary idioms. You may be interested to know about verlan. It’s a popular French linguistic trend that creates slang words by spelling them (loosely) backwards. It’s been popular with young people for some time, but now even their parents are catching on and many verlan words have been entered into the dictionary. So in verlan, fou (crazy) becomes ouf. Louche (strange or shady) becomes chelou. Another very common verlan term is vénère. It comes from the word énervé, which means “annoyed” or “irritated.”
Laundry Service Laundry service and dry cleaning are available through your hotel for an additional fee.
Strikes In France strikes are an accepted part of the political dialogue. As a result, they seem to happen more often here than in the U.S. And while they are nothing to be afraid of—they are generally peaceful and orderly—they can be a nuisance as they may disrupt transport or may force us to make adjustments to our itinerary. If there are any such adjustments needed while you are in France, your Program Director will keep you up to date.
Did you know? The French for “on strike” is “en grève”—which comes from Place de Grève, the old name of the large square in front of Paris’s city hall. (Today it has been renamed as Place de l’Hotel de Ville, or City Hall Square.)
Taking Photographs The etiquette of photographing most people in Europe is about the same as it would be on the streets of your hometown. You need permission to take a close-up, but not for a crowd scene. Consent is especially important if you want to take a photo of a child or minor—ask their parent for permission first. To get a great portrait, show interest in your subject and try to have a bit of social interaction to put them at ease. Then use sign language to inquire if a picture is OK.
Safety & Security As you travel, exercise the same caution and awareness that you would in a large American city. Don’t be overly nervous or suspicious, but keep your eyes open. If you are venturing out after dark, go with one or two other people.
Carry a one-day supply of cash in your pocket. Carry most of your money, and your passport, in a travel pouch or money belt under your shirt. Replenish your pocket supply when you are in a safe and quiet place, or in our vehicle. Don’t leave valuables unattended in your hotel room. Most hotels will offer use of a hotel safe at the front desk or an electronic in-room safe (for which you can set your own personal number). Please utilize them.
73 Pickpockets may create a sudden distraction. In any sort of puzzling street situation, try to keep one hand on your wallet or money belt. If an encounter with a local turns out to be long and complicated and involves money or your valuables, be very careful. Con artists sometimes target travelers.
French Cuisine It would be an understatement to say the French have an appreciation for fine food. They have a reverence for it, and it shows in the quality of French cuisine, which was designated by UNESCO as part of the World’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. You certainly don’t need to dine at a Michelin- starred restaurant to experience the best of French cuisine. A visit to just about any local marché (open-air market), pâtisserie (pastry shop), boulangerie (bakery), café, bistro, or brasserie may well be as memorable an outing as visiting the famed monuments and museums.
Classical French dishes formed the basis of what we once called haute cuisine. But some of these dishes were regional in origin. Fortunately, because there is such widespread regard for gastronomy, regional dishes may appear on menus far from home, especially in large cities.
Few dishes are more universally loved than French onion soup (soupe á l’oignon), a sweet and savory broth of caramelized onions, beef stock, and sherry with a crust of grilled Comté or Gruyère cheese. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, workers at Paris’ famous outdoor food market, Les Halles, would often huddle around steaming cauldrons of onion soup. But then some local restaurateurs added the gratinée of bubbling cheese atop a crouton, and a classic was born.
Coq au vin is a specialty of Burgundy, made with chicken braised with red Burgundy wine, lardons, mushrooms, and garlic. But there are also delicious regional variations such as coq au Riesling or coq au Champagne. Another Burgundian classic is boeuf bourguignon, mixing succulent beef with red wine, onions, mushrooms, and lardons. In Bordeaux a traditional beef dish is entrecôte á la Bordelaise, a rib eye steak cooked in a red wine sauce with bone marrow.
Charles de Gaulle once quipped “How can you govern a nation that has 246 varieties of cheese?” It was an understatement. There are actually more than 1,000. Try some salty Roquefort, a mild Comté, a pungent raclette (melted cheese dish), a nutty Emmental, or a rich, triple creme Brillat- Savarin with a vein of black truffle through the middle. Some of France’s best cheese comes from dairy-rich Normandy, the home of Camembert, Livarot, Neufchâtel, and Morbier. They all pair famously with other Norman specialties such as cider and calvados, a delicious apple brandy.
While Paris may be a moveable feast, the capital of French gastronomy is Lyon, thanks to its central location amidst some of France’s richest agricultural regions. Try the classic fonds d’artichauts aux foie gras, made by melting foie gras over crisp artichoke hearts. Quenelles are football-shaped dumplings made with pike, served with tomato sauce, béchamel, or the famous Nantua sauce made with crayfish, carrots, celery and cognac. In the Loire Valley, sample Anjou pears, all kinds of freshwater fish, or fouaces—puffy turnovers stuffed with different fillings such as rillettes (a pork paté) or goat’s cheese.
74 In the south, Provencal cooking relies on intensely flavored, sun-ripened vegetables, fresh seafood, olive oil and herbs. For a starter, try tapenade, a paste of olives, garlic, capers and lemon served with toast points. Pissaladière is a flatbread topped with caramelized onions, garlic, and anchovies. Bouillabaisse is a seafood soup made from fish and shellfish cooked in a broth of onions, tomatoes, saffron, and herbs. For the main course, try cassoulet, a stew of white beans, pork, duck confit, and bacon.
In the French Basque country, try the prized jambon de Bayonne ham; or marmitako, a stew of tuna, potatoes, onions peppers, and tomatoes. For dessert, there’s gâteau Basque, a shortbread filled with either black cherry jam, or an almond or vanilla cream. The icing on the cake is not icing at all, but the fact that no matter what you eat in France, there will be an exquisite wine to pair with it. Bon appetit!
Alsace is where French joie de vivre meets Germany’s cozy gemutlichkeit, and both of these traits are reflected in the Alsatian cuisine that awaits you. Farm-to-table fare was a tradition here long before its current vogue. Look for seasonal, locally grown produce (such as the famous white asparagus, a springtime favorite), farm-raised animals, and wild fish and game.
The signature dish of Alsace is choucroute garni, which means “garnished sour cabbage” but is much more. Here, silvery strands of sauerkraut are braised with herbs and caramelized onions in Riesling. The “garnishes” are cuts of bacon, sausage, and smoked pork. Baeckeoffe is a hearty casserole named for the Alsatian term for “baker’s oven.” Housewives would gather meat and vegetable scraps in an earthenware dish, and bring it to the local baker, who’d seal the lid with a strip of dough and leave it in his oven to be collected the next day. Today, it’s made at home but with the same pork, beef, lamb, and potatoes, simmered for hours in white wine.
Another iconic dish is flammekueche (or in French, tarte flambée), a chewy flatbread smothered with fromage blanc (a tangy fresh cheese), crème fraîche or sour cream, slivered onions, and crispy lardons of bacon. (It is also popular in Germany’s Baden and Palatinate regions.) Once upon a time flammekueche was considered peasant fare. Today it is as ubiquitous as pizza, but it may also grace upscale menus, perhaps topped with shrimp, scallops, lobster, duck, or that Alsatian specialty, foie gras.
Coq au Riesling is an intensely flavorful dish of chicken braised in white Riesling wine, accented with lardons of bacon and button mushrooms, and enriched with a silky touch of crème fraîche. Coq au Riesling is typically served with buttered noodles or mashed potatoes.
Alsatians love cheese and the local favorite may be munster, a small, creamy cheese made with unpasteurized milk, often dusted with cumin. Also popular is bibeleskaes, a cream cheese seasoned with garlic, onion, parsley, and sometimes, bacon. Smear some of this on a fresh-baked bretzel, a chewy Alsatian pretzel. You’ll find them in bakeries, bars and special bretzelleries. They come salted or unsalted, immersed in emmental or munster cheese, flecked with bacon, drizzled with chocolate, or wrapped around a steamy, snappy knack sausage, so-named for the sound it makes when you bite into it. But it can also be enjoyed with a simple dusting of sugar.
75 More sugary treats will tempt you in Alsace’s many patisseries. When you are done sampling the beautiful éclairs, tartes, and madeleines, upgrade to the king of Alsatian desserts: kougelhopf. This moist cake is made from a brioche-type dough with dried fruits and nuts, and is baked in a special round fluted pan. If you visit around Christmas, you’ll find plenty of bredele, small cakes baked in many shapes and flavors such as anise, lemon, and ginger.
You will have plenty to toast during your journey. Of course you will want to raise a glass of dry Riesling or other white wine. But Alsace is also the main beer-producing region of France, thanks to Strasbourg’s many breweries. Or for something different, try kirsch, an eau-de-vie made from elderberries, cherries, strawberries, or whatever fruit is locally available.
English Cuisine The French used to have a joke about their English neighbors that went something like “other countries know how to cook while the English know how to boil”. Even the Brits themselves would joke about their standard “meat, potatoes, and two veg” meals. But starting in the 90s there was a revival of British classics using fresh ingredients, flavor-boosting “low and slow” cooking methods, and sometimes borrowing elements from other cuisines. As a result, modern British cooking now has many admirers (see the devoted fans of Great British Bake Off or the cookbooks of Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsay, and Nigella Lawson as proof). Add to this the fact that the UK has a diverse choice of restaurants—Indian, Thai, Italian, French, and Chinese to name a few—and we can say that the English eat very well.
That’s not to say that you can’t find the old classics; just that they are better than ever. For example, beef stew, bangers and mash (sausage and mashed potatoes), and bubble and squeak (a potato and cabbage/brussel sprout dish) are still on many menus. Fish and chips is another well-known meal and is usually bought from special shops (chippies) where the cooked food is wrapped and sprinkled with salt and vinegar. There are lots of traditional regional specialties, including Yorkshire pudding (made with flour and water), toad in the hole (sausages in Yorkshire pudding), cream scones served with jam and clotted cream, and London’s pie and mash (eel in parsley sauce with mashed potato). And although not originally from Britain, Indian curry has become so ubiquitous that “going for a curry” is a weekend staple.
Paris in Brief
City Layout and Details Paris occupies 432 square miles (six more than San Francisco). In central Paris, the Rive Droite (Right Bank)—the shore to the right as you face downriver—is north of the Seine, while the Rive Gauche (Left Bank) is south of the river. Streets that are more or less parallel to the Seine are numbered from east to west, in the direction in which the river flows. On streets that are perpendicular to the river (or approximately so), the numbering starts at the river; building numbers get higher the farther away from the Seine you go. Thirty-two bridges link the Right and Left banks, some providing access to the two small islands at the heart of the city. This city center, called Ile de la Cité, is the birthplace of Paris and includes the sites of Notre Dame and Ile St. Louis, a moat-guarded isle with 17th-century mansions.
76 Between 1860 and 1870 Baron Haussmann forever changed the look of Paris by creating the legendary boulevards: boulevards St. Michel, St. Germain, Haussmann, Malesherbes, Sebastopol, Magenta, Voltaire, and Strasbourg. The “main street” on the Right Bank is, of course, the Champs-Elysées, beginning at the Arc de Triomphe and running to the Place de la Concorde. Haussmann also created Avenue de l’Opera (as well as the Opera), and the twelve avenues that radiate star-like from the Arc de Triomphe, giving it its original name of Place de l’Etoile (renamed Place Charles de Gaulle following the general’s death). Today it is often referred to as Place Charles de Gaulle Etoile. Haussmann cleared Ile de la Cité of its medieval buildings, transforming it into a showcase for Notre Dame. Finally, he laid out the two elegant parks on the western and southeastern fringes of the city: Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes.
Paris has been divided since 1860 into 20 arrondissements (districts), which spiral out from the center of the city like a clockwise snail. Each district has its own city hall, police station, and main post office. All addresses include the arrondissement number (written in Roman or Arabic numerals and followed by “e” or “er”).
Laundry Service Self-service laundromats are available in Paris. The cost is approximately 7 euros to wash and dry one load of clothes. Your hotel also provides laundry services, but the fees are very high. It’s much less expensive to launder your clothes yourself.
Check Hours for Weekday Closures (Versailles, Louvre, etc.) Many major sights in and around Paris close one day a week, usually on a weekday. For example Versailles Palace and the Orsay Museum are closed on Mondays; the Louvre is closed Tuesdays. But on the bright side, the same museums usually offer extended evening hours (les nocturnes) one day a week. If a particular museum is important to you, we strongly recommend that you check their hours online or in a guidebook before you make any plans.
Eiffel Tower Tickets Many attractions allow you to purchase tickets online and in advance. More specifically, Eiffel Tower tickets can be purchased online at http://www.toureiffel.paris/en.html. Purchasing a ticket may be beneficial in the long run; however it must be purchased for a specific date and time. Tickets that are past their assigned day and time stamp cannot be transferred or refunded. With that being said, the Eiffel Tower is a very popular destination in Paris and the lines for tickets can be a long wait.
Be aware that a certain number of tickets are held back from online sales, and are sold at the tower itself for same day admission. If the date you wanted was not available online—or you don’t wish to purchase a ticket in advance-you can buy one of these tickets from the booth at the foot of the tower. Same-day tickets can go fast, so we suggest getting there early in the day.
77 Shopping Areas The French department stores Galeries Lafayette and Printemps both have flagship stores on the Boulevard Haussmann, near the Opera. Haute couture can be found in the streets around the Rue du Faubourg St. Honore. The Rue de Paradis is lined with crystal and china shops, and St. Germain des Pres has more than its share of art galleries. For great flea markets, head to the Puces de St. Ouen (near the Porte de Clignancourt)—but keep in mind that most vendors are open on the weekends only, so check the hours first. While bargaining is not common in France, it is acceptable at flea markets or occasionally at produce markets.
Local Transportation The underground Metro operates from 5:30 am to 1:15 am. It is clean, quiet, and easy to use. The different lines are identified by numbers ands the names of their terminals at either end. Every station has clear directional maps, some with push-button devices that light up the proper route after a destination button is pushed. Keep your ticket (you may need it to exit the station; and you will need it when you exit the RER – the rapid transit network – station). A ten-ticket book (carnet) is available at a reduced rate and is valid for Metro, RER and buses.
Taxis can be found at stands at main intersections, outside railway stations, and in the streets. Fares increase at night. The green light on the roof signifies availability.
Tips for Dining Out in France • Keep in mind that when you go to a restaurant or a café in France, the service may be slower than what you are used to and you will need to ask your server for the bill when you are ready to pay. The French consider it rude to rush their patrons or to present the bill without being asked.
• Tipping is not expected because a service charge is usually included in your bill, though you may consider leaving 1-2 Euros.
• In general, lunch is the main meal of the day, so you may find that some shops, banks, and offices close in the middle of the afternoon for an hour or two.
Getting Around in France Public transit: Metro (subway), buses, and trams—almost every city in France has reliable and inexpensive public transit. Often you must buy your ticket and then “validate” it by punching it in a machine or running it past a sensor.
Taxi: Taxis are widely available throughout the country.
Trains: France prides itself on it’s nationalized railway system, run by the SNCF, and even small towns often have daily train service for commuters. For longer trips, look for a TGV, or train a grande vitesse (high-speed train), which can take you cross-country in a matter of hours.
78 The Loire Valley in Brief
Layout and Details The Loire Valley is located in the middle section of the Loire River in central France, and is often called the Garden of France because of the abundance of vineyards, fruit orchards, and artichoke and asparagus fields that fill the valley around the river. Perhaps most famous for the combination of its wines and historic châteaux, it has been recognized since 2000 by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
In total there are more than three hundred châteaux—the large number accounted for by the nobility’s need to be near the seat of power, and the consequent construction spree engendered when French kings began building their huge châteaux here. Employing the best architects and landscape designers of the time, this lush, fertile valley began came to embody the ideals of the Renaissance and the Age of the Enlightenment in western European thought and design. Notable châteaux include the Château d’Amboise, Château de Chambord, Château de Chinon, Château du Rivau, Château d’Ussé, Château de Villandry and Chenonceau.
The valley encompasses historic towns such as Amboise, Blois, Chinon, Nantes, Orléans, and Tours. Loire wines have a characteristic fruitiness and fresh, crisp flavors throughout its several regions—including Muscadet, Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. Wine production here focuses on whites from the Chenin blanc, Sauvignon blanc and Melon de Bourgogne grapes; but red wines, rosés, sparkling and dessert wines are produced as well.
Brittany and Saint Malo in Brief
City Layout and Details Brittany occupies a large peninsula in the northwest of France, between the English Channel to the north and the Bay of Biscay to the south. One of France’s most rugged regions, it’s a fascinating mix of impressive coastline, ancient towns, intriguing islands and atmospheric woodlands. It is perhaps best known for its Neolithic monuments, including ancient burial chambers – some of which significantly predate the Egyptian pyramids, and its countless Neolithic menhirs, standing stones that were planted into landscape. You’ll also find walled cities, Gothic cathedrals, and a charming populace still very much attached to their distinctive culture. In the centuries before the Roman conquest of the region, it was occupied by Celtic cultures. In the Dark Ages immigrants from Ireland, Wales and southern England stamped their indelible presence into a land that became known as Brittany, or Little Britain. First as a kingdom and then as a duchy, the region weathered Viking raids and civil war to finally lose its independence to the French crown in 1532.
St Malo is a fortified port city situated on the English Channel and the gulf of St Malo. Largely destroyed in WW II, the walled city has been extensively rebuilt along its historic lines. As early as the Middle Ages St Malo was a major European port and for a time was independent of both France and Brittany—becoming an extremely wealthy city as a result. Wealth and location made St. Malo a popular homeport for corsairs (pirates) who set out to waylay both local and distant maritime traffic—and brought more wealth home. The walled city extends out from the town’s
79 château and the Cathédrale St-Vincent, both of which lie near the peninsula’s tip. Surrounded by beaches, it’s historic charms are coupled with a more modern beach resort aura, and it is a popular vacation spot for British tourists. Local sites to visit include the Fort du Petit Bé – Promenade des Bés, a XII century fort and Fort National, on the beach, which was built in 1689 to ensure the security of St Malo. Also, on the quai Duguay Trouin you’ll find the L’Etoile du Roy, a replica of the type of corsair frigate that sailed from the port in 1754.
Dating back to the 8th century Mont St. Michel, the famously picturesque monastery sitting on top of a rocky island in the gulf of St. Malo, is an hour’s drive away.
London in Brief
City Layout and Details London is frequently described as a “city of villages” that cropped up around the square mile of the first walled Roman city that once stood here. Though most of the walls disappeared long ago, the political autonomy of The City of London still distinguishes it from the surrounding neighborhoods. The City has always been London’s financial center, and it is chock full of tiny lanes and a historic atmosphere. The 32 boroughs of Greater London, which surround The City, comprise over 600 square miles, though thankfully for visitors, the major tourist attractions are relatively close together in the center.
The West End: Stretching from west of the City to Hyde Park is the lively West End, which includes the nation’s thickest grouping of boutiques, stores, restaurants, and theaters. Oxford Street, which runs the length of the West End, vies with nearby Covent Garden and Soho as the most popular site for sightseers and shoppers.
South Kensington and Chelsea: Just beyond the West End, south of Hyde Park, are the stylish residential districts of South Kensington and Chelsea. These areas contain many impressive estates and important city buildings.
The East End: Flanking the City’s eastern side is one of London’s most impoverished areas. Historically, the East End was unappealing because both the prevailing winds and the flow of the River Thames move from west to east. In the plague-ridden days before sewers, life on the “wrong” side of the City was truly perilous for one’s health. Today the East End is still home to indigent immigrants and the capital’s famous Cockneys.
Southwark: The borough of Southwark lies across the river from the City, on the south bank of the Thames. Southwark became notorious as London’s entertainment quarter during Elizabethan times, when theaters and brothels were banned within the City.
Local Transportation Bus and Underground (“tube”): Bus stations and tube stops abound in London, making it relatively easy to get across this vast city. The tube generally runs every few minutes from about 5:30 am to midnight (7:30 am to 11 pm on Sunday). In addition, some lines have an overnight service called “Night Tube” on Fridays and Saturdays. You can pick up a handy tube map,
80 distributed free at all station ticket windows. While London’s comprehensive tube transport network may seem intimidating at first, it is surprisingly easy to navigate, and can feel very familiar after just a few rides. However, be aware that certain stations involve going up and down lengthy stairways; others provide escalators. Hold on to your subway ticket throughout the ride; you must insert it in a turnstile to exit the subway.
Taxicabs: You may opt to take a cab once or twice. Metered cabs may be hailed on the street (when “for hire” sign is lit) or ordered by phone. A 10% to 15% tip is usual for a cab ride. Expect an additional charge for travel after 8 pm, and on weekends.
On Foot: London can be a somewhat confusing city to negotiate. It seems as though no two streets run parallel, and even locals regularly consult maps. But in the winding streets of The City and in the tourist area of the West End, there’s no better way to go. Don’t forget that cars drive on the left, and look both ways before stepping off the curb. Also, cars have the right-of-way over pedestrians; take care even when the light seems to be in your favor.
Shopping: What to Buy, Customs, Shipping & More There may be scheduled visits to local shops during your vacation. There is no requirement to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor’s terms of purchase. Grand Circle is not responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases.
Returns If you discover an issue with an item, you should contact the vendor directly and expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. We recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop’s contact information. Keep in mind, local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don’t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up or that you are guaranteed a refund.
Crafts & Souvenirs
France Perfumes, fashion, jewelry, art, glass, china, and wine—these are just a few of the many goods for which France is famous. Each region has its own specialties, but you can often then for sale in other parts of the country. If time is short, try checking out a big department store, like Galeries Lafayette or Printemps. Or look for the Prisunic and Monoprix chains, which have lower prices and are more for everyday shopping (sort of like the French version of Target).
• Paris: Fashion, art, antiques, perfume, food and wine—really, you can buy just about anything in Paris.
• Normandy: Look for salted caramels, rich cheeses, apple pastries, hard cider, and calvados apple brandy. Items with images of the Bayeux Tapestry are popular, as are anything with Joan of Arc (who spent her last days in Rouen). Lastly, World War II and D-Day are remembered in books, images, slogans, and more throughout the region.
81 • Provence: Typical products include fragrant lavender sachets and beauty products, olive oil, tapenade spread, rosé wines, and herbes de provence. The region is also known for its rustic pottery and anything with cicadas, as they are the unofficial mascot of Provence. And don’t forget the table linens and handbags in brightly-colored fabrics known as indienne patterns—the most sought-after (and expensive) are by Souleiado.
• The Rivera: Designer names dominate the French Riviera, but there are also plenty of local products too, especially at the colorful open-air markets.
• Bordeaux and the Southwest: The Bordeaux region is so famous for its wines that they are known all over the world just by the name of the region. In addition to wine, France’s southwest is also known for its fine foods, like foie gras, Toulouse sausages, and croquants (similar to biscotti). Lastly, Occitan crosses (also called Languedoc crosses) are symbolic of the region, as are items with artwork by Impressionist painter Toulouse-Lautrec.
Value-Added Tax: The French value-added tax (VAT) is typically 19.6% and can be as high as 33.33% on luxury articles. Depending on how much you spend on certain goods, you may be eligible for a partial refund of this tax. Ask the shopkeeper or salesperson at the time of purchase. Be sure to save all receipts for Customs. (Generally, you have to spend over 175€ at the same shop, on the same day, and have filled out a special form for this process.) Note that our ships do not have VAT forms.
England Different parts of the United Kingdom (UK) are known for different specialties. Even if your trip only takes you to one part of the country, you’ll find these items for sale throughout. Popular items include Liberty silks, umbrellas, Crunchie candy bars, Derby-style hats and fascinators, Paddington toy bears, Wedgwood china, orange marmalade, Woods of Windsor soaps and lotions, football team shirts, Wellington boots, Burberry trench coats and accessories, books by British authors, Earl Grey tea, Beatles memorabilia and so much more. You can find all kinds of items emblazoned with Union Jacks, London Underground (Tube) imagery, and images of the royal family.
U.S. Customs Regulations & Shipping Charges For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, www.cbp.gov has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at 1-877-227-5511.
The top three points to know are:
• At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees.
• Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties—not door-to-door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your
82 responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need to arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties.
• It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins.
83 DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY
France
Facts, Figures & National Holidays • Area: 248,573 square miles
• Capital: Paris
• Language: French
• Location: France is a large country, two and a half times as big as Great Britain, extending for some 600 miles from north to south and from east to west. It has coastlines on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Its southern land border is Spain; to the north are Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany; to the east are Switzerland and Italy.
• Geography: Except for extreme northern France, which is part of the Flanders plain, the country may be described as four river basins and a plateau. Three of the streams flow west—the Seine into the English Channel, the Loire into the Atlantic, and the Garonne into the Bay of Biscay. The Rhône flows south into the Mediterranean. For about 100 miles, the Rhine is France’s eastern border. In the Alps, near the Italian and Swiss borders, is Europe’s highest point—Mont Blanc, at 15,781 feet.
• Population: 66,836,154
• Religion: Roman Catholic 63-66%, Muslim 7-9%, Jewish .5-.75%, Buddhist .5-.75%, other .5-1.0%, none 23-28%
• Time Zone: France is on Central European Time, six hours ahead of U.S. EST. When it is 6am in Washington D.C., it is noon in Paris. Daylight Saving Time begins the last weekend in March and ends the last weekend in October.
84 National Holidays: France
In addition to the holidays listed below, 05/08 World War II Victory Day France celebrates a number of national 07/14 Bastille Day holidays that follow a lunar calendar, such as Easter and Whit Monday. To find out if you 08/15 Assumption of Mary will be traveling during these holidays, please visit www.timeanddate.com/holidays. 11/01 All Saints’ Day
01/01 New Year´s Day 11/11 Armistice Day
05/01 Labor Day 12/25 Christmas Day
France: A Brief History That the French do things with flair has been borne out by history. Even their most famous prehistoric treasure, the 17,000-year old cave paintings of Lascaux, are a dazzling work of art. The rest of French history is just as dazzling, colored by events and ideas that have impacted all of humanity, far beyond the borders of this hexagon-shaped crucible of culture.
When the Celts arrived in Gaul in the 5th century BC, it was already occupied by Iberians, Ligurians, and Greeks, who established the oldest city in France, Massilia (Marseille). It was a major port with temples, theaters, an agora, and a flourishing wine trade. The city had forged an alliance with Rome by the time Julius Caesar conquered Gaul in 57-52 B.C. Julius often gets credit for founding Lutetia (Paris), but the Gallic Parisii tribe had already established a settlement there on the banks of the Seine. The Romans erected their own magnificent cities whose ruins still stand in Arles, Nimes, Vienne, Lyon, and beyond.
During the 5th century AD, the Franks invaded and converted to Christianity under Clovis I. A national spirit emerged when Charlemagne, King of the Franks, was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 800 AD. Though his reign left an indelible imprint, French national history is considered to begin in 987, when Hugh Capet centralized the monarchy. During the 12th and 13th centuries, trade prospered, guilds were founded, and cathedrals were built. But the 14th century brought the Hundred Years War with England (1337-1453), whose Norman kings held vast estates in France. The English were expelled and as in the days of Charlemagne, the throne held a powerful mystique, this time with the aid of Joan of Arc, whose divine voices urged her to lead France to victory at Orleans in 1429 and to champion Charles VII as king.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, France moved closer towards absolute monarchy, best exemplified by Louis XIV, whose reign was unequaled for its autocracy—and magnificent style. From Versailles, he presided over a gloriously gilded France—so resplendent that it earned him the title of “the Sun King.” Ironically, the very splendor of the French monarchy precipitated its downfall, for it was exorbitant to maintain. That burden fell to the peasants and middle class, as nobles and the clergy were exempt from the taxes. That ended with the French Revolution in 1789. King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were guillotined, the monarchy was abolished, and the new (but short-lived) First Republic was established.
85 The ensuing chaos led to the rise of Napoleon, who became emperor in 1804 and built an empire across nearly all of Europe. Though Napoleon was a dictator, his Napoleonic codes brought unprecedented legal rights and civil liberties to his domains, in many places ending feudalism. With his fall in 1814, the monarchy was restored. France’s Third Republic was founded in 1870, during which the groundbreaking Impressionist school of painting emerged, as well as the Modernist movement. From 1914-18, France fought with the Allies in World War I, prevailing but suffering devastating losses. Between wars, France nourished major intellectual movements: Constructivism, Dadaism, Surrealism, and Existentialism.
In 1940, France was invaded by Germany who set up a puppet government in Vichy under Marshal Philippe Petain. On D-Day, June 6, 1944, the Allies landed in Normandy and went on to liberate Paris in August. A provisional government was set up under General Charles de Gaulle. He remained France’s most influential statesman of the 20th (or perhaps any other) century, becoming president in 1958 until his resignation in 1969. Post-war France saw the break-up of its remaining colonial outposts. The country was one of the leaders in the founding of the European Union (1993) and the Eurozone (1999).
More recently France, like its European neighbors, had to contend with the fallout of the 2008 global economic crisis. Unemployment, immigration, structuring the post-Brexit EU, and climate change are some of the issues France must address with its historic resourcefulness—and characteristic flair.
United Kingdom in Brief
Facts, Figures & National Holidays • Area: 94,525 square miles
• Capital: London, with a separate parliament in Edinburgh for Scotland, a National Assembly in Cardiff for Wales, and a National Assembly for Northern Ireland in Belfast.
• Government: Constitutional monarchy
• Languages: English, Welsh, Gaelic
• Location: Situated off the northwest coast of Europe, the island of Britain is occupied by England, Wales, and Scotland—collectively called Great Britain. Together with Northern Ireland, Great Britain makes up the nation officially called the United Kingdom (UK). England, in the southern part of Britain, is separated from Scotland on the north by the granite Cheviot Hills. To the west along the border of Wales—a land of steep hills and valleys—are the Cambrian Mountains. To the south of England is the English Channel and to the east is the North Sea, which also washes the eastern coast of Scotland. To the west of England is the Irish Sea, mixed to the north with the Atlantic Ocean.
• Population: Entire UK 65,105,246 (estimate): England - 55,268,100, Scotland - 5,404,700, Wales - 3,113,200, Northern Ireland - 1,862,100
86 • Religions: Christian (Anglican, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist, etc.) 59.5%, Muslim 4.4%, Hindu 1.3%, other 2%, unspecified 7.2%, none 25.7%
• Time zone: Great Britain is five hours ahead of Eastern Time: when it is 6 am in New York, it is 11 am in Wales, England, and Scotland.
National Holidays: United Kingdom
National holidays can vary depending on follow a lunar calendar, such as Easter. To which part of the country you’re in; please find out if you will be traveling during these refer to the section for the specific area that holidays, please visit www.timeanddate. you’ll be visiting. The United Kingdom also com/holidays. celebrates a number of national holidays that England
Facts, Figures & National Holidays • Area: 50,346 square miles
• Capital: London
• Location: Consists of 48 counties, occupying the southern part of Great Britain
• Languages: English
• Population: 55,268,100
• Religions: Christianity 59.4%, Non-religious 24.7%, Unknown 7.2%, Muslim 5.0%, Hindu 1.5%, Sikh 0.8%, Jewish 0.5%, Buddhist 0.5%
• Time Zone: Same as the rest of the United Kingdom, five hours ahead of Eastern Time
87 National Holidays: England
In addition to the holidays listed below, 1st Monday in May Early May Bank Holiday England celebrates a number of national Last Monday in May Spring Bank Holiday holidays that follow a lunar calendar, such as Easter. To find out if you will be traveling Last Monday in August Summer Bank Holiday during these holidays, please visit www. timeanddate.com/holidays. 12/25 Christmas Day
01/01 New Year´s Day 12/26 Boxing Day
England: A Brief History Prehistoric England was home to Celtic and other tribal peoples, then was ruled by the Roman Empire from about AD 43 to AD 410. After Rome fell, Jutes, Angles, and Saxons established small kingdoms and fiefdoms. When the Viking marauders hit England’s shores in the 9th century, many of those small kingdoms were unified by King Alfred the Great of Wessex. Strength in numbers.
Some of England’s medieval monarchs stand out for their lasting impacts on history. William the Conqueror brought Norman rule to England in 1066. Richard the Lionheart embarked on the Third Crusade in 1189. King John was compelled to sign the Magna Carta in 1215, laying the foundation for constitutional monarchy.
English King Edward I conquered Wales in 1283 and sought to rule Scotland as well. Those imperial ambitions were not limited to the island of Great Britain—England under Edward III fought the Hundred Years’ War with France between 1337 and 1453, ultimately losing all its possessions on the French side of the Channel. Then, between 1455 and 1485, the York and Lancaster families battled for the crown in the Wars of the Roses. The victor, Henry Tudor, who was a Lancaster but through illegitimate descent. He married a York, and their offspring, Henry VIII, became the third Tudor king in 1509.
Henry VIII is best known for his six marriages, the first of which, to Catherine of Aragon, he sought to end through annulment. When the Pope forbade it, Henry separated the Church of England from papal authority and made himself its head. His daughter, Elizabeth I, became queen in 1558 and ruled for 44 years—a golden age of cultural flowering, and the expansion of England’s naval prowess.
England fell into civil war between 1642 and 1649, when Oliver Cromwell executed King Charles I and briefly replaced the monarchy with a republic. The monarchy was restored in 1660 with the enthronement of Charles II, though royal power was restored with limitations.
The United Kingdom came into being with the 1707 Act of Union between the parliaments of England and Scotland. Then, by 1714, the first of four King Georges ascended the throne, beginning the Georgian era, a time when England laid the groundwork for Empire. It reached its fruition in the 19th century during the Victorian era, when the British Empire straddled the globe.
88 During the 19th century, the entire island of Ireland was part of the United Kingdom, having been incorporated into the UK in 1801. The Irish however, sought independence, and in 1921, all but the six northern counties of Ulster became the Republic of Ireland—leaving the UK in its present form. But the United Kingdom was still able to call on its crown colonies, protectorates and Commonwealth when it declared war on Germany in 1939. The Battle of Britain and the destructive air attacks known as the Blitz besieged England from July 1940 to June 1941. Prime Minister Winston Churchill, one of England’s most influential statesmen, led the country to victory.
As a popular song of the war years put it, “There’ll Always Be an England.” But what of the United Kingdom? In recent years, the desires of the Scots and Welsh for greater autonomy have led to the process called “devolution.” In 1999, Scotland regained its own Parliament, and Wales established its own National Assembly. In 2014, a referendum was held in Scotland to vote on independence from the United Kingdom, but was defeated.
In 2016, a United Kingdom referendum passed with 51.9% in favor of leaving the European Union. Brexit went into effect on January 31, 2020, with an 11-month transition period, during which the government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson must negotiate a new EU trade deal. Failure to do so will be a major hit on the UK economy. Plus, with both Scotland and Northern Ireland solidly opposed to Brexit, there is talk that the prospect of them rejoining the European Union might resurrect the call for independence.
89 RESOURCES: SUGGESTED READING & MOVIES
Suggested Reading
Western France All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr (2014, Fiction) This Pulitzer Prize winning, World War II novel traces the live of a blind French girl and a German orphan, until they intersect in the besieged coastal city of St. Malo. The narrative is driven forward by a puzzle box of a mystery, with some passages so beautifully written they will bring tears to your eyes.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah (2015, Fiction) Two sisters in a Loire Valley village take different paths to survival when the Nazi occupation begins. A page-turner about the women of the French Resistance, their resilience, and the choices that define a life.
France The Seine: The River That Made Paris by Elaine Sciolino (2020, Nonfiction) Sciolino traces the history, route, and impact of the Seine River through the stories of its people—a riverbank bookseller, the Seine police, a houseboat owner, fishermen, and film directors, to name a few. She also includes a touching chapter on the 2019 Notre Dame fire, which was put out with water pumped from the river.
Paris to the Moon by Adam Gopnik (2001, Travel Essays) A self-described “comic-sentimental essayist,” Gopnik spent the years from 1995 to 2000 in Paris writing the “Paris Journals” for the New Yorker. Collected here are his most charming, insightful, heartfelt, and humorous dispatches on the Parisian people, culture, food, economy, and lifestyle.
A Brief History of France by Cecil Jenkins (2017, History) Exactly what the title promises: A compact overview of the history of France. Look for the 2017 edition, which was updated to include more recent events.
My Life in France by Julia Child with Alex Prud’homme (2007, Memoir) Memoir of the famous chef’s first, formative stay in France in 1949. Child describes herself as a “rather loud and unserious Californian,” without a word of French. She enrolled at the Cordon Bleu and toiled with increasing zeal and competence. With the bestselling Mastering the Art of French Cooking, she revolutionized the American idea of cooking. This memoir recalls gorgeous meals in bygone Parisian restaurants, and reveals the personality and some of the secret arts of a culinary genius.
The Miracle of Dunkirk: The True Story of Operation Dynamo by Walter Lord (2017, History) A well-written and comprehensive account of the British evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 with the help of the French. The author has been praised for his ability to weave the personal stories of the survivors—who he interviewed in great depth—into the overall narrative of how events unfolded.
90 England Persuasion by Jane Austen (1818, Fiction) Social conventions derail the courtship of Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth. But the two are thrown together again in the social whirlwind of early nineteenth-century Bath.
Windsor Castle: A Thousand Years of a Royal Palace (2018, History) This authoritative history, the first to be published in 100 years, explores Windsor Castle and its immediate environs from around AD 700 to the present day, and examines the social, political and cultural events in the lives of the royals who lived there. Includes many illustrations, photos and 3D reconstructions.
London by Edward Rutherfurd (1998, Fiction) A very ambitious historical novel of London’s past, which sweeps from Roman times through the medieval, Elizabethan, Victorian, and Edwardian eras on up to the present.
A Traveller’s History of England by Christopher Daniell (2005, History)An entertaining refresher course in English history, from hunter-gatherers to Margaret Thatcher’s resignation. Written by a noted British historian and archaeologist.
All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot (1998, Memoir) A heart-warming book, in which a veterinarian in Yorkshire shares amusing anecdotes about his dealings with animals and their owners.
Bath by Edith Sitwell (1932, History) Sitwell, the famed Bloomsbury writer, provides a fine portrait of Beau Nash, the 18th-century “Master of Ceremonies” who put the city Bath on the Georgian social map. Insightful commentary on the fashions of the day, the development of the city, and the colorful array of politicians, peers, matchmakers, gamblers, artists and con artists who flocked here to “take the waters.”
Suggested Movies
France Midnight in Paris (2011, Comedy) Screenwriter Gil Pender (Owen Wilson) escapes his romantic troubles by roaming the streets of Paris at night, where he is miraculously (and hilariously) transported back to 1920s Paris, where Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, Salvador Dali, F. Scott Fitzgerald and the entire “Lost Generation” await him.
Summer (also released as The Green Ray, 1986, Comedy) Set in and around Biarritz and Bayonne, this confection from French master Eric Roehmer follows a young woman who is forced to re- evaluate herself when her summer vacation plans go awry.
Loving Vincent (2017, Biography) Van Gogh’s paintings come to life in this remarkable, animated film created by 125 artists, who hand-painted each of the film’s 65,000 frames in the style of Vincent van Gogh. The plot follows the efforts of a postmaster’s son to solve the mystery of van Gogh’s life and death in Auvers-sur-Oise.
91 Saving Private Ryan (1998, Drama). Probably the best (and most riveting) depiction of the Normandy D-Day landings and their aftermath. It won Steven Spielberg an Oscar for Best Director.
The Return of Martin Guerre (1982, Drama) Set in the Pyrenees, this epic tells the true story of a man who returns to his village after the Hundred Years War, and resumes his family life. But the man who calls himself Martin Guerre (Gerard Depardieu) is not who he seems to be.
Cleo from 5 to 7 (1962, Drama) See why director Agnes Varda deserves her rightful title as the godmother of the French New Wave. This film follows a young singer’s afternoon as she awaits the results of a biopsy. We trail her to cafes and shops, to an assignation with her lover, and across the cityscapes of Paris of the 1960s, which is vividly captured.
Chocolat (2000, Drama/Comedy) In this warm and beautifully filmed romance, a lovely chocolatier (Juliet Binoche) falls in love with a handsome gypsy (Johnny Depp), disrupting life in a prim riverside village. Many scenes were filmed in the Dordogne region.
Au revoir, les enfants (1987, Drama) In this heartbreaking, autobiographical film, director Louis Malle recalls the winter of 1943-44, when the priest of his boarding school introduced three new students who turned out to be Jewish children he was attempting to hide. The main character, Julien, forms a close bond with one of the Jewish boys, until their friendship is cut short by a betrayal.
Amelie (2001, Romantic Comedy) This quirky gem tells the heartwarming story of a shy waitress in Paris who decides to change the lives of those around her for the better, while struggling with her own isolation. The award-winning film is a whimsical depiction of everyday life, sure to capture the hearts of its viewers time and time again.
England Atonement (2007, Drama) On the eve of World War II, a 13-year old girl irrevocably changes the lives of three people when she mistakenly accuses her sister’s lover of a crime. The depiction of the manors and manners of the British gentry is at once searing and beautifully evocative. And the war scenes—notably the famous tracking shot on the beaches of Dunkirk—are harrowing. This Oscar winner stars Keira Knightley, James McAvoy and a young Saoirse Ronan.
Mrs. Brown (1997, Drama) After the death of her husband, Queen Victoria plunged herself into an intense grief that only lightened with the help and support of one of her favorite servants, the highlander John Brown. But a friendship between queen and servant is simply “not done”, and the scandal threatens the Queen’s popularity and position. Consider watching this along with Young Victoria (2009) starring Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend, for a Victoria double feature.
All Is True (2019, Drama) After the Globe Theater is burned in a fire, William Shakespeare (Sir Kenneth Branagh) returns to Stratford-Upon-Avon and his stoic wife, Anne Hathaway (Dame Judi Dench). Fame is trailing him, as are the ghosts of his past, and the genius for wit and wordplay that he can no longer summon. Also starring Sir Ian McKellen.
92 Gosford Park (2001, Drama) “Upstairs, Downstairs” meets Agatha Christie in this whodunit set in an English country estate in 1932. The powerhouse ensemble cast includes Helen Mirren, Maggie Smith, Michael Gambon, Kelly MacDonald and Clive Owen.
British TV Known for their dry humor and intriguing mysteries, and well-produced period adaptations, British T.V. shows are a fun way to see the Brits as they see themselves. Most shows are available on DVD, BBC America, PBS, or Netflix.
• The Crown (Historical Drama) A Netflix original drama following Queen Elizabeth II in the mid-20th century as she assumes the throne and the events that follow.
• The Great British Baking Show (Reality Cooking Series) Sometimes known as The Great British Bake Off, this competition features 12 aspiring bakers from Britain as they take on challenges to create everything from traditional British treats to twists on the classics with their “showstopper” dishes before facing the judges.
• Masterpiece Classic (Period/Adaptations) A PBS series that showcases adaptations of literary works, many of which are produced by the BBC. Classic novels by Dickens (Little Dorrit, Bleak House), the Brontes (Jane Eyre, Wuthering Height), and P.G. Wodehouse (Jeeves and Wooster) are well-represented. They also showcase original shows set in bygone eras, like the Edwardian drama Upstairs, Downstairs and Downton Abbey, which takes the concept into a countryside estate.
• Prime Suspect (Mystery) This gritty modern crime drama introduced Helen Mirren to wider audiences as the no-nonsense detective Jane Tennison. The show deals with some dark subject matter, such as crime and alcoholism.
• Inspector Morse (Mystery) Moody and brilliant, Morse solves complicated murders in Oxford with the help of his more-grounded partner Sergeant Lewis. In recent years, Sergeant Lewis got a promotion and his own series: Lewis. And PBS has done a flashback series to Morse’s early days on the force in the 1960s called Endeavour.
• Monty Python’s Flying Circus (Comedy) By turns wacky, witty, and surreal, this classic sketch show from the 1970s continues to have a devoted following.
93 VACCINATIONS NOW REQUIRED FOR ALL TRAVELERS, SHIP CREW, PROGRAM DIRECTORS, AND COACH DRIVERS Plus, updated Health & Safety Protocols for our River Cruises
The health and safety of our travelers is always our #1 priority, and we understand travelers are concerned about exploring the world in light of the unprecedented crisis we are currently facing. To ensure your safety and give you peace of mind, we have worked with our regional team and listened to government guidance and feedback from our travelers to create these health and safety protocols for our trips. As we continue to make changes, we will keep our website updated with the latest information.
VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND UPDATED HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR RIVER CRUISES • All travelers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to departure and provide proof of vaccination upon boarding the ship. If you are unable to provide proof of vaccination upon arrival at your destination, you will have to return home at your own expense.
To meet this requirement, please bring your original COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with you on your trip. The white card must display your name, type of vaccine, and the date(s) the vaccine was administered. We also suggest taking a picture of this card to keep for your records as a backup.
• All local Program Directors, ship staff, and crew will be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
• All coach drivers will be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
• All public areas will be sanitized nightly and all ships are equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters.
• All travelers, ship crew, and Program Directors will have their temperature checked every time they return to the ship using a non-contact infrared temperature scanner.
• All meals are served by the dining staff—buffets are no longer available.
We will do all we can to ensure our travelers’ safety and health while on our trips, but we need your help. We expect travelers to follow best health and hygiene practices to prevent the spread of illness as well—from washing your hands regularly, to covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. By working together, we can create a safer travel experience for everyone.
Learn more at www.gct.com/covid-update
94 95 Visit www.gct.com or call us toll-free at 1-800-221-2610
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