Marla at Travel Best Bets

11/21/2024

Yesterday we did a tour of the Bizy Castle. On the edge of Vernon, behind the trees that are hundreds of years old. It is a privately owned Castle and the woman living there is 91 with 2 gardeners and 1 servant. We also saw a collection of horse-drawn carriages and the Versailles- inspired stables. We had someone that could play the piano and so they let her play on the piano from the 19th Century. Then we had a pastry demonstration on board. Then we cruised to Les Ansley’s and visited St Sauveur Church, built in 1220. To end the day they did Karaoke on board!

11/20/2024

With stunning ocean views, elegant venues, and personalized services, your dream wedding awaits.

11/20/2024

Before we got onto the train to Paris, we did a stop at the Hotel-Dieu, Symbol of Beaune. Founded in 1443 by the chancellor to the Duke of Burgundy, Hotel-Dieu, also known as the Hospices de Beaune, it is a true jewel of high gothic architecture. It was established as a charitable almshouse for the poor and needy who were dying at the time from famine and pestilence. We were told how the residents were treated, thanks to money earned from the hospital’s annual wine auction, and to see Van der Weyden’s “The Last Judgment” polyptych.

11/19/2024

Infinite possibilities and moments of pure bliss.

11/19/2024

Currently on the bullet train to Paris

11/18/2024

This is the Jazz group that performed on the ship on Saturday, I thought I posted it, but I can’t see it. Sorry if it’s a duplicate, they were amazing! Earlier that day we had a Chocolate & Wine tasting, that was hosted by a Master of Wine

11/18/2024

Yesterday we arrived in Lyon France. In the morning we did a wonderful excursion, to Beaujolais to see an amazing village that was just stunning and then a tour and wine tasting to a beautiful vineyard. Couldn’t resist buying a bottle to bring home.
Then in the afternoon we did another excursion in Lyon with the Fourvière Basilica & Place des Terreaux.

11/17/2024

11/17/2024

Yesterday in Tournon, France- The twin cities of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage lie nestled among vineyards between the Rhone River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage. We enjoyed a walking tour of Tournon, one of France’s oldest medieval cities, with its imposing 16th century castle and Roman ruins. In the afternoon we had a wine and chocolate wine pairing and in the evening, entertainment by a local 3 piece jazz band!

11/15/2024

In Viviers, France today.
We xplored, the pale-stone buildings of charming Viviers on this extraordinary guided walking tour. We saw the Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with its mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.
Lots of information!

11/14/2024

Had a great day today in Avignon, France. We did the palace of popes which was home to 7 popes from 1309-1377 and visited the “St Benezet Bridge”. Then after lunch we went to the famed wine cellars of Chateanunuf-du-Papefor a true test of the Rhone wine region region. Had a great dinner then a show on board and I will do a separate tmpost for them.

11/13/2024

Arles France

11/13/2024

Today we toured Arles in France, what an amazing little city. This city inspired artists such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Some of the impressive sites include Les Arenes, an arena that seats 20,000 and is still in use for the famous annual La Ferris bullfights, as well as Romanesque monuments such as the Church of Saint-Trophime, completed in the 15th century. Tomorrow off to Avignon.