French Indulgence of Gastronomy and Wine,  June 2007

Following the huge success of our 2005 and the May 2007 tour which filled very quickly we are pleased to announce this new French extravaganza, which will be even more exciting and special. This is the ultimate food and wine adventure for discerning hedonists who appreciate and want the best France has to offer.

Note: You can click on all words in blue for more detailed information on each hotel, restaurant or town.

Join this most unique and luxurious trip of gastronomy, wine, and good time. The tour will depart Paris then meander leisurely through the Loire Valley, Dordogne, Cognac, Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, the Medoc, and back to Paris . The tour will start in Paris then take you on a discovery of the very best of the gastronomy, wines, culture and history of these stunning regions. We will take you to places normally not accessible to the public and open the doors to many unique and fascinating experiences.

The 2004, 2005 and May 2007 tours sold out very quickly, so make sure you book as early as possible to avoid missing out, as this tour is limited to a small group of about 20 lucky participants. Your travel companions will be generally mature well travelled individuals, all linked harmoniously by a common interest in good food, wine and a good time, as well as a great love and interest in France. Most have travelled extensively but want to enjoy a trouble free trip in the lap of luxury, where everything is taken care of and the going is smooth and easy.

This is no ordinary tour, and you will feel that you are experiencing something special. You will benefit of the considerable local knowledge of the two leading experts on gourmet food luxury and travel in France to take you to those special places not accessible to ordinary travellers. At the same time you will have plenty of opportunities to do your own thing, if you so desire, to indulge in your own individual activities.

In addition to the obvious emphasis on good food and wine, you will be able to discover the fascinating history, traditions, rich culture and medieval architecture of the diverse regions visited during a number of small informed presentations and guided visits.

Chenonceaux

Your host on this extraordinary tour will be Christopher de Doby, Managing Director of French Travel Connection, recognized as the foremost expert on travel in France, especially in unique and luxurious style. Christopher and the French Travel Connection have been named as the "Best French travel specialist in the world" in October 2004 by the French government and in August 2006, Christopher was awarded the "Gold Medal for Tourism" by the French minister for tourism. These are two of the highest and most prestigious awards available and are rarely given outside of France, and recognise our superior professional service together with our quality and innovative products.  Christopher will lead you to many of his secret places to help you discover and wonder at the special hidden parts of France rarely seen by ordinary tourists and immerse you in the many historical anecdotes surrounding the villages and towns visited.

The highlights of this tour will be:

• Dinners in several of the very best Michelin starred restaurants in regional France, each one a legend amongst foodies worldwide, their chefs culinary superstars.

• Shopping at the local markets followed by  picnics in the country side, lunches in exotic vineyards and castles.

• Visits and tastings at some of the best known and most prestigious vineyards in the world.

For a change in pace we will organize shopping expeditions in the most tempting local cheese shops, charcuteries, patisseries and wine cellars where you will be let loose to purchase the countless regional delicacies. These will be enjoyed at rustic picnics in vineyards and scenic spots along the way.

The tour will also include many food and gastronomy related activities, visits to well known producers of regional products, vineyards, etc. 

Accommodation will be in the very best five star hotels in each region, generally exotic castles or boutique luxury hotels. We are spending four nights in the same properties in the Loire Valley and Dordogne for extra comfort and to avoid repeated unpacking and moving. Travel will be in our own unique private luxury coach with air conditioning, bar, toilets, video screens. This coach is one of very few available in France and offers a rare level of stylish luxury, equivalent to business/first class in a plane: Only 34 seats where normally there would be 49 for extra space and leg room, plus a circular lounge at the rear that seats 6.

The tour will also take in the major tourist sights along the way but also place considerable emphasis on exploring the small back roads to discover the charming and lesser-known parts of the hidden France.

Tour Includes:

• Accommodation in luxury hotels as indicated, with breakfast, service charges, porterage and taxes included.

• Travel in luxury air conditioned coach with driver.

• Gourmet lunches and dinners with wine as indicated.

• Visits with entrance fees and professional guides as indicated.

• Services of a multilingual Tour Manager

• Arrival transfer from airport to hotel in Paris. (Air City share minibus service)

Not Included:

• Travel insurance. We strongly recommend that you take out the best possible cover.

• Expenses of a personal nature.

• Passport is compulsory. Australian passport holders do not need to obtain an entry visa to France prior to departure but have a passport valid for at least six months. Please ensure you make your own enquiries about your individual requirements and compliance.

COST excluding Airfares. Subject to slight change until final itinerary.

* Prices in Euro

This represents outstanding value for money in view of the very high standard and cost of accommodation, meals etc.