Karen King, Travel Consultant, Camarillo Travel

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Karen King, Travel Consultant, Camarillo Travel

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11/05/2021

We’re back at home after an amazing virtual journey through France. I always find it amazing to explore places I’ve not visited, taken in the art, history and scenery. We’ve traveled by plane, train, river cruise ship and by motor coach. I hope you’ve enjoyed our travels virtually throughout France. Our on ground trip for this itinerary begins on October 16, 2022 through October 30,2022 seeing up close and personal all France has to offer. Reach out via email, text or cell to find out how you can become a part of this wonder 2022 travel experience!

11/03/2021

Travel Journal Entry 11/3/2021: We leave Le Harve and make our way to the Loire Valley, home to many beautiful chateaus and castles of the French royal elite. First, we make our way to Chateau Chenonceau where we learn from our guides that this chateau was a gift to a mistress and advisor, Diane de Poitiers by king Henry II. But upon his death Catherine de Medici the queen evicted her rival, Diane. Catherine then added a gallery, bridge extension and more gardens. Next on our list today we visited Chateau Cheverny built by the Hurault family from 1624 to 1630. One of the last Loire Valley castles to be built, the castle at Cheverny is in white stone and follows the classical style that was popular at the time of Louis XIII. It is built to a symmetrical design, and is unchanged and unaltered since the time the building work was completed. Last we toured Chateau Chambord which was built between 1519 and 1547 CE. This fine French Renaissance building, although impressive in both size and architectural detail, was commissioned by Francis I of France (r. 1515-1547 CE) to function as a hunting lodge where the king and his entourage could pursue the abundant game in the surrounding forest. We’ve been surrounded by beautiful historic chateaus, gardens and artwork today with our wonderful and knowledgeable tour guides.

11/03/2021

Travel Journal Entry 11/2/2021: On 6 June 1944, also known as D-Day, the Allies opened up a new front against the troops of Germany’s Third Reich. It was the largest military operation in history, which marked the start of the Battle of Normandy and would eventually lead to the end of the Second World War. More than 150,000 soldiers from America, Britain, Canada, and many other different nations landed by air and sea on a number of beaches along the Normandy coastline (Utah, Omaha, etc.) as well as at the Pointe du Hoc. Our next stop was Omaha Beach (nicknamed “The Beach of Blood”). Of all the Allied beaches, it saw the greatest number of casualties. It is located beneath the 170-acre Colleville cemetery, the next destination of our tour. The famous American military cemetery at Saint Laurent is home to 9,387 white marble headstones, a memorial, chapel, and the Garden of the Missing. It pays tribute to the American soldiers that died during the Battle of Normandy and is one of 25 permanent United States burial sites overseas. There’s no fancy food, ancient art work, or famous wine—the important take away was this epic effort which changed the course of history and democracy paid for by the lives of daring soldiers. Honoring them was the most important experience to be had on this day.

11/02/2021

Travel Journal Entry 11/1/2021: We enjoyed our TVG Train ride back to Paris only to be met by our Decouvertes tour guides Marion and Cynthia at the train station where we collected our belongings and found our seats on the “petit motorcoach” for our next destination of Le Harve and home of the great D-Day Beaches of WWII. The countryside along the way was full of Autumn colors. We stopped for a break in the town of Honflueur for lunch. We continue and make our way to hotel “Grand Hotel du Luxembourg” check in and become familiar with our lodging and surroundings. After breakfast we’ll tour the historic D-Day beaches and museum and the American Cemetery. This leg of the trip is sure to be emotional and inspirational.

11/02/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/31/2021--We take our last stroll through Lyon in the morning and then board our TVG Train ride back to Paris where our tour guide will greet us and es**rt us to Le Harve, home of the great D-Day beaches and monuments to the brave souls who fought to preserve democracy. Enjoy these pictures and we'll connect again once we are in Le Harve, France.

11/02/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/30/2021: Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. We followed the footsteps of the ancient Romans on a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey—one of the oldest surviving churches in France, and now an Archaeological Museum. We then took a walking tour that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Our footsteps has us continuing on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” You can also visit the famous indoor market hall Les Halles de Lyon know for many taste tempting foods and baked goods.

11/01/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/29/2021: Being a lover of wine and chocolate, we set out to visit Le Château de Tournon for a presentation and tasting on the pairing of red wine and chocolate. Then we braced ourselves for a scenic hike through the vineyards of Tain l’Hermitage. There’s nothing like tasting the wines while visiting the very vineyard where the grapes are grown.

11/01/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/28/2021--Today we walked the quaint surroundings of Viviers, a charming commune that sidles up to the right bank of the Rhone. From Viviers, we made our way to the magnificent hilltop village of Grignan. The medieval architecture was beyond beautiful. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, we then went in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion, a true adventure with wonderful tasting rewards!

10/27/2021

10/27/2021 Travel Journal Entry: Today our future virtual cruise port is Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Depending on your interests, you have three choices of excursions in the morning. Some of our group will discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or we can choose to visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. This afternoon, we’ll go to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. And some active folks will enjoy a bike tour through the city, lets ride!

10/26/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/26/2025: Day 2 of our cruise, we’re visiting the Provencal village of Tarascon known for its medieval architecture and charming tales – especially the legend of the Tarasque monster. We joined a guided walking tour where we visited the Roman ruins of Arles, its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Some of our group enjoyed a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. Later in the afternoon, we went to visit the enchanting medieval fortress, the Castle of Tarascon – a fortress designed to protect but surprises all with its elegant interior, fit for royalty. Afterwards, we ventured to the medieval hilltop village, Les Baux de Provence. In the evening, we were amazed by the illuminations cruise around Avignon.

10/25/2021

Travel Journal Update 10/25/2021--We've arrived and toured our first port after boarding the beautiful Ama Kristina ship in Avignon, France. The ship is spacious and the crew beyond attentive in every way--the word No does not exist in their vocabulary. Here's a few pictures of the ship and the beautiful port of Avignon. Popes reigned here for many many years and that influence shows all over the walled city. The city streets are story book in every way, twisting and winding along the way. Enjoy this post and continue to track us as we continue our journey along the river!

10/21/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/21/2021: Sitting onboard the TVG to Avignon--what a sleek profile these trains have. We've upgraded to first class and are read to take in all the scenic countryside views. See you in Avignon in about 3 hours!

10/20/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/20/2021: It was a whirlwind the last 2 days of touring Paris. Of course, the Eiffel from 2 perspectives, one from top and one from the Seine at night. Then, the Musee D’Orsay, and the rebuilding of the Notre-Dame continues. A foodie tour of Montmartre and pilgrimage to Sacre Coeur. We could have stayed so much longer, but tomorrow we board our high speed TVG train for the journey to Avignon for embarkation of the much-anticipated AmaWaterways river cruise along the Rhone River. Until then, stay tuned Mon Ami’s!

10/18/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/18/2021: (Thinking about the future) We arrived safely in Paris, not regretting taking advantage of the “buy one get one” Business Class seat offer from AmaWaterways. We were greeted and picked up by our private driver and delivered unscathed to our hotel in the city. After checking into our room, we decided to stave off our jet lag and take a walk around the neighborhood to get familiar with local stores and restaurants. We awoke the next day to make our way via private guide to the palace of Versailles and its magical gardens. My friend is there right now and she writes to us “Versailles in all its opulence: The 24k gold leaf on the gates and roofs has apparently just been redone under sponsorship of a private corporation. Must admit I do love Marie Antoinette’s floral wall paper on display now. Can you believe that they used to change out all the furniture and wall coverings twice a year!!! We can easily understand the impetus for the French Republique after a visit here!" Continue following me all during October as we continue to explore France in all its Autumn wonder.

10/16/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/16/20221: Exactly one year from today our group will be boarding the plane for France! But before we begin dreaming of the perfect trip, its time to make sure you’re taking the right gadgets with you so phone, cameras, laptops and any other gadget works properly and captures all your memories. Make sure you have the right electrical adapters and plug. Camera battery chargers are a must have. USB ports and whatnot are essential. Seat cushions for the 9 hour plus plane ride will make you feel at ease during the flight. And last but not least make sure the luggage you intend on using are the sizes allowed on your flight—each airline has specific measurements so be sure to check you’re good to go. So pack up, be comfy and we’ll see you after touching down in Paris, Merci!

10/11/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/11/2021: We're within a few days of being one year away for our departure date in 2022 and I'm dreaming of France all month long. Le Consulat Restaurant is located in Montmartre, a beautiful authentic village in Paris, just a few stops by metro and very popular with visitors. Amazing views of the city and full of character throughout. No wonder Montmartre has been loved by French artists, it is so unique and postcard pretty! The famous movie Amelie was filmed here, you might recognize places if you have seen the film. If you love French wine and cheese, to finish off your visit in Montmartre, stop at Lux Bar for a glass wine to experience the towns vibrant culture. Think about traveling with us to France, October 2022!

10/08/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/8/2021: Autumn is prime hot chocolate season, and Paris does some of the best in the world. One of the most well-known spots in the city for a good “chocolat chaud” is the Angelina tea room, with its beautiful Belle Epoque building. People queue right out of the door for a cup of their specialty thick ‘African’ chocolate blend. It’s made from a secret recipe which uses a rich blend of cocoa beans sourced from Niger, Ghana and the Ivory Coast. Another of favorite Parisian hot chocolate spots is the Café de Flore in Saint-Germain. It’s one of the city’s oldest cafés and was a haunt of painters, writers and philosophers in the 1920s. The café’s notoriously grumpy waiters serve you a jug of melted chocolate and another of hot milk so you can mix them yourself and make it as rich as you can handle. Interested in traveling to France? Just reach out and we can make that dream come true!

10/05/2021

Travel Journal Entry 10/5/2021: This month marks just one year away from our wonderful and much anticipated “Colors of Provence” river cruise. I’m dedicating postings about France this month and I’ve been inspired by travel blogger 'On the Luce' and will share snippets of the blogs musings about France. On the Luce” shares that “autumn adds another dimension to an already beautiful city. The Seine is extra atmospheric at dawn or dusk on crisp, cool autumn days, when a fine mist hangs over the water. Along the river bank you’ll find street stalls with roasting chestnuts next to bouquiniste booksellers. But for the best Parisian autumn colors you need to head to one of the city’s parks. Grab a takeaway crêpe, wrap up with a cozy coat and scarf, and take a walk. The Jardin des Tuileries and Places des Vosges both have fabulous foliage, but my favorite autumnal haunt is the Luxembourg Gardens. It’s Paris’ largest public park with over 22 hectares, so you’ll have no trouble finding a pile of leaves to kick through. Paris heads outside when the sun’s out, with men playing boules, children playing and couples snuggling up.” As always thanks for reading my posts, and if you’re interested in joining our tour “Colors of Provence” in October 2022 just reach out!

08/26/2021

UPDATE: October 2021 -- This is your Dream Yacht Cruise! Only 112 guests sail exclusively through 3 countries -- Italy, France and Spain aboard The Sea Dream l. Don't miss out on this incredible offer to see some of the most beautiful Mediterranean ports of call. Fare includes ocean view accommodations, all gourmet meals, wine with lunch and dinner, open bar with select premium brands, gratuities, use of water toys from the yacht's marina, mountain bikes, golf simulator and more. This is one trip you will never forget--all inclusive ONE PRICE! Starting at $4199.00 per person!!! Single supplements apply. Want to know about other Sea Dream itineraries? Email Karen King at [email protected] today to find out more!

08/06/2021

UPDATE: October 2022 "Colors of Provence" Rhone River Cruise Update! Don't miss out on this incredible offer to see one of the most beautiful itineraries in Europe--7 nights on the Rhone with the option of a pre cruise stay in Barcelona, Spain and a post cruise stay in Paris. This is one trip you will never forget--all inclusive ONE PRICE! Starting at $3749.00 per person!!! Single supplements apply.

07/23/2021

UPDATE: September 2023 Danube River Cruise Update! Don't miss out on this incredible offer to see one of the most beautiful itineraries in Europe--7 nights on the Danube with the option of a pre cruise stay in Budapest and a post cruise stay in Prague. This is one trip you will never forget--all inclusive ONE PRICE! Starting at $3949.00 per person!!! Single supplements apply.

07/15/2021

Have you ever heard of Agriturismo? Well listen up. It's one of the best ways to travel through Tuscany.....I have all the information you need to curate the MOST amazing trip in Italy for a fraction of what some tour companies charge. Hit me up for the latest!

07/04/2021

Have a Great Day!

06/24/2021

UPDATE: June 24, 2021—Much of the European Union is open to North American travelers! If you’re planning a trip in 2021 Camarillo Travel and Karen King can brief you on all the up to the minute travel documentation requirements, latest information on airline protocols and more. We can’t wait to see you plan that next great trip! Remember, Camarillo Travel has been where you want to go!😃

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http://www.camarillotravel.com/

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Get Out and Travel! OK, today I went for a ride up in Big Sur….well via my Peloton Bike..but like the short video says “I want to get away, I want to fly away, YEAH, YEAH!” Let me know how I can help you restart your travel adventures…all it takes is one phone call to start you on the travel path! Cheers!!