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Avalon Waterways: Burgundy & Provence
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| AVALON WATERWAYS: BURGUNDY & PROVENCE |
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Opportunities abound on this grand vacation to learn about and to taste France’s sumptuous wines and local cuisine. Guided sightseeing acquaints you with vibrant Paris and with Nice, the “Queen of the Riviera,” while a deluxe 7-night cruise along the Saône and Rhône Rivers takes you into the heart of this beautiful country. Enjoy orientation walks in fascinating Beaune and medieval Tournon, and see the sights with Local Guides in Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, as well as in Avignon and Arles.
Wine River Cruise Departure
Departure on October 30, 2010 is offered as an exclusive Wine-Theme River Cruise, including special lectures and tastings, available at no additional cost.
DAY ONE: DEPART
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
DAY TWO: PARIS, FRANCE
Welcome to Paris, France’s capital on the River Seine and the “City of Light,” where romance fills the air!
DAY THREE: PARIS
Paris’ famous sights are living history: your included city sightseeing shows you magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral , the unique Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid as a contrast to its ancient architecture, the commemorative Arc de Triomphe, Opéra, Madeleine, Champs Elysées, and the Eiffel Tower, a structural miracle of its age. The city is well known for its colorful nightlife that includes some of the world’s most famous cabaret shows. (B)
DAY FOUR: PARIS - BEAUNE - CHALON-SUR-SAONE (EMBARKATION)
After breakfast, drive south past the forest of Fontainebleau, favorite hunting grounds of a long line of French kings, and into Burgundy. Beaune, the unofficial capital of the Côte d’Or area—which produces the region’s finest vintages—owes its wealth to the production, aging, and selling of fine wines. Its most famous historical site, the Hôtel-Dieu charity hospital, houses Van der Weyden’s painting of the Last Judgement and is one of France’s architectural highlights. Enjoy a TASTING of Burgundy wines before continuing south to Chalon-sur-Saône, where the crew of your luxurious river cruise vessel awaits to welcome you on board. Before dinner, set sail for Tournus. (B,D)
DAY FIVE: TOURNUS - MACON
Free time to explore the lovely town of Tournus. The cloister of St. Philibert or the folklore collection of the Burgundy Museum, located in an old family mansion, are worth a visit. Sail to Mâcon for a guided walking tour of this lovely town on the River Saône. Playing an important role in the wine trade, Mâcon has a rich history. See the OLD SAINT VINCENT, the cathedral founded in the 6th century and now a symbol of the city; La Charité; the Town Hall; and the Half-Timbered House, dating from the 15th to 16th centuries. A number of optional excursions, including a visit to a wine cellar, are available. (B,L,D)
DAY SIX: BEAUJOLAIS REGION - LYON
Enjoy a leisurely morning cruising on the Rhône. Lyon is France’s second-largest city and its gastronomic capital. Founded by the Romans in 43 BC, the city’s prosperity dates back to the 16th century and is due to commercial, industrial, and banking activities. Roman remains, many excellent museums, and much renaissance architecture delight the visitor. Survey the city from FOURVIÈRE HILL and explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its maze of medieval alleyways, Place Terraux, and the beautiful Place Bellecour. Beaujolais is the wine of the region and wine connoisseurs will know that the grapes must be hand picked. Tradition dictates that the “Beaujolais Nouveau” is tasted for the first time on the third Thursday of November each year. An optional dinner gives gourmets insight into the local haute cuisine. (B,L,D)
DAY SEVEN: LYON
A free day in this fascinating city to explore at leisure. Early risers might like to visit the local produce market. Your Cruise Director will have plenty of suggestions for things to do. (B,L,D)
DAY EIGHT: TOURNON/TAIN L'HERMITAGE - VIVIERS
The twin cities of Tournon and Tain L’Hermitage lie nestled among vineyards between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage. Tournon, with its imposing 16th-century castle and Roman ruins, is one of France’s oldest medieval cities. Another charming town, Viviers, was developed around its ROMANESQUE CATHEDRAL, and the OLD TOWN has an appealing mix of Christian, Roman, and medieval influences. (B,L,D)
DAY NINE: AVIGNON
The fortified city of Avignon is the capital of the Vaucluse region, the most picturesque part of Provence. Also referred to as the “City of Popes,” it was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century, and the city landscape is dominated by the grandiose PALACE OF THE POPES. A photo of the BRIDGE of the popular song is a must, and optional outings to Pont du Gard or to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape are available this afternoon. (B,L,D)
DAY TEN: ARLES
On the northern tip of the Camargue, Arles is the capital of the Provence and was once known as the “Little Rome of Gaul.” See the ROMAN AMPHITHEATER, the church of St. Trophime, and “Les Alyscamps,” the remains of the Gallo-Roman burial road. Vincent Van Gogh was inspired by the special light of the Provence and spent a very productive year in Arles. The “Foundation Vincent Van Gogh” is a tribute to the artist. (B,L,D)
DAY ELEVEN: ARLES (DISEMBARKATION) - NICE
After breakfast, transfer by motorcoach along the Côte d’Azur to Nice. An afternoon stroll through narrow, winding streets will acquaint you with the OLD TOWN of this sophisticated city, also known as the “Queen of the Riviera.” This evening an optional excursion to Monte Carlo in the Principality of Monaco is available. (B)
DAY TWELVE: NICE
Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
DAY TWO: PARIS, FRANCE
Welcome to Paris, France’s capital on the River Seine and the “City of Light,” where romance fills the air!
DAY THREE: PARIS
Paris’ famous sights are living history: your included city sightseeing shows you magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral , the unique Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid as a contrast to its ancient architecture, the commemorative Arc de Triomphe, Opéra, Madeleine, Champs Elysées, and the Eiffel Tower, a structural miracle of its age. The city is well known for its colorful nightlife that includes some of the world’s most famous cabaret shows. (B)
DAY FOUR: PARIS - BEAUNE - CHALON-SUR-SAONE (EMBARKATION)
After breakfast, drive south past the forest of Fontainebleau, favorite hunting grounds of a long line of French kings, and into Burgundy. Beaune, the unofficial capital of the Côte d’Or area—which produces the region’s finest vintages—owes its wealth to the production, aging, and selling of fine wines. Its most famous historical site, the Hôtel-Dieu charity hospital, houses Van der Weyden’s painting of the Last Judgement and is one of France’s architectural highlights. Enjoy a TASTING of Burgundy wines before continuing south to Chalon-sur-Saône, where the crew of your luxurious river cruise vessel awaits to welcome you on board. Before dinner, set sail for Tournus. (B,D)
DAY FIVE: TOURNUS - MACON
Free time to explore the lovely town of Tournus. The cloister of St. Philibert or the folklore collection of the Burgundy Museum, located in an old family mansion, are worth a visit. Sail to Mâcon for a guided walking tour of this lovely town on the River Saône. Playing an important role in the wine trade, Mâcon has a rich history. See the OLD SAINT VINCENT, the cathedral founded in the 6th century and now a symbol of the city; La Charité; the Town Hall; and the Half-Timbered House, dating from the 15th to 16th centuries. A number of optional excursions, including a visit to a wine cellar, are available. (B,L,D)
DAY SIX: BEAUJOLAIS REGION - LYON
Enjoy a leisurely morning cruising on the Rhône. Lyon is France’s second-largest city and its gastronomic capital. Founded by the Romans in 43 BC, the city’s prosperity dates back to the 16th century and is due to commercial, industrial, and banking activities. Roman remains, many excellent museums, and much renaissance architecture delight the visitor. Survey the city from FOURVIÈRE HILL and explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its maze of medieval alleyways, Place Terraux, and the beautiful Place Bellecour. Beaujolais is the wine of the region and wine connoisseurs will know that the grapes must be hand picked. Tradition dictates that the “Beaujolais Nouveau” is tasted for the first time on the third Thursday of November each year. An optional dinner gives gourmets insight into the local haute cuisine. (B,L,D)
DAY SEVEN: LYON
A free day in this fascinating city to explore at leisure. Early risers might like to visit the local produce market. Your Cruise Director will have plenty of suggestions for things to do. (B,L,D)
DAY EIGHT: TOURNON/TAIN L'HERMITAGE - VIVIERS
The twin cities of Tournon and Tain L’Hermitage lie nestled among vineyards between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage. Tournon, with its imposing 16th-century castle and Roman ruins, is one of France’s oldest medieval cities. Another charming town, Viviers, was developed around its ROMANESQUE CATHEDRAL, and the OLD TOWN has an appealing mix of Christian, Roman, and medieval influences. (B,L,D)
DAY NINE: AVIGNON
The fortified city of Avignon is the capital of the Vaucluse region, the most picturesque part of Provence. Also referred to as the “City of Popes,” it was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century, and the city landscape is dominated by the grandiose PALACE OF THE POPES. A photo of the BRIDGE of the popular song is a must, and optional outings to Pont du Gard or to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape are available this afternoon. (B,L,D)
DAY TEN: ARLES
On the northern tip of the Camargue, Arles is the capital of the Provence and was once known as the “Little Rome of Gaul.” See the ROMAN AMPHITHEATER, the church of St. Trophime, and “Les Alyscamps,” the remains of the Gallo-Roman burial road. Vincent Van Gogh was inspired by the special light of the Provence and spent a very productive year in Arles. The “Foundation Vincent Van Gogh” is a tribute to the artist. (B,L,D)
DAY ELEVEN: ARLES (DISEMBARKATION) - NICE
After breakfast, transfer by motorcoach along the Côte d’Azur to Nice. An afternoon stroll through narrow, winding streets will acquaint you with the OLD TOWN of this sophisticated city, also known as the “Queen of the Riviera.” This evening an optional excursion to Monte Carlo in the Principality of Monaco is available. (B)
DAY TWELVE: NICE
Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
HIGHLIGHTS
Cruise:
Deluxe 7-night cruise from Chalon-sur-Saône to Arles or Arles to Chalon-sur Saône in an outside stateroom with hotel-style beds
Paris:
Guided sightseeing
Beaune:
Orientation walk
Chalon-sur-Saône:
Welcome reception
Mâcon:
Guided walking tour
Lyon:
Guided sightseeing; picture stop on Fourvière Hill
Tournon:
Orientation walk
Viviers:
Guided walk; visit the cathedral
Avignon:
Guided sightseeing, visit Palace of the Popes
Arles:
Guided sightseeing, visit the Roman Amphitheater
Nice:
Orientation walk of Old Town
Notes:
In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach.
MEALS
Buffet breakfast (B) in Paris and Nice; superb dining with all meals on board, including a welcome reception, welcome dinner, Captain’s dinner, one sitting with open seating arrangements; quality wines from France’s most famous wine regions with every dinner on board
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Paris Le Meridien Montparnasse (SF), Nice Area Boscolo Plaza (SF)
Cruise:
Deluxe 7-night cruise from Chalon-sur-Saône to Arles or Arles to Chalon-sur Saône in an outside stateroom with hotel-style beds
Paris:
Guided sightseeing
Beaune:
Orientation walk
Chalon-sur-Saône:
Welcome reception
Mâcon:
Guided walking tour
Lyon:
Guided sightseeing; picture stop on Fourvière Hill
Tournon:
Orientation walk
Viviers:
Guided walk; visit the cathedral
Avignon:
Guided sightseeing, visit Palace of the Popes
Arles:
Guided sightseeing, visit the Roman Amphitheater
Nice:
Orientation walk of Old Town
Notes:
In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach.
MEALS
Buffet breakfast (B) in Paris and Nice; superb dining with all meals on board, including a welcome reception, welcome dinner, Captain’s dinner, one sitting with open seating arrangements; quality wines from France’s most famous wine regions with every dinner on board
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Paris Le Meridien Montparnasse (SF), Nice Area Boscolo Plaza (SF)
SHIP DETAILS
The Avalon Scenery® is the newest addition to the Avalon fleet with a design that differentiates her from
our other vessels and reflects the uniqueness of the area. Carrying a maximum of just 138 passengers, she is
the smallest of the Avalon ships making for an even more intimate cruising experience. But don’t let its size
fool you; the staterooms are generously spacious and well appointed, with floor-to-ceiling windows on two decks.
In addition, there is an elevator, and the whirlpool on the Sky Deck allows for a relaxing dip after a day of sightseeing.
Avalon understands that great accommodations and amenities are an integral part of the perfect vacation. That’s why we
care about the little things that make a big difference in enhancing your journey.
FAQ
Can airfare be arranged?
Yes. We can arrange airfare from your home city.
Should I purchase insurance?
Yes. The purchase of medical and trip cancellation/interruption insurance is strongly recommended.
Can airfare be arranged?
Yes. We can arrange airfare from your home city.
Should I purchase insurance?
Yes. The purchase of medical and trip cancellation/interruption insurance is strongly recommended.
DATES + CRUISE PRICES
| April 3, 2010 | $3,474.00 per person |
| April 17, 2010 | $3,650.00 per person |
| May 1, 2010 | $3,884.00 per person |
| May 15, 2010 | $3,999.00 per person |
| June 26, 2010 | $3,884.00 per person |
| July 10, 2010 | $3,884.00 per person |
| July 24, 2010 | $3,884.00 per person |
| August 7, 2010 | $3,884.00 per person |
| October 16, 2010 | $3,767.00 per person |
| October 30, 2010 | $3,533.00 per person |
Prices exclude port charges of $119.00
and are per person, cruise-only, based on double occupancy. Other restrictions may apply.
Not Included in the Vacation Price:
Airport taxes and fees; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your tour director,
tour driver, local city guides; gratuities on ferries, trains and cruise ships; laundry; telephone;
mini bar; alcohol, beverages and food not on the regular table d’hôte menu (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel or restaurant); optional excursions; porterage at airports; travel protection; excess baggage fees; all other items of a personal nature.
To upgrade to a higher category, add per person the following prices below:
B Sapphire Deck: $584.00
A Sapphire Deck: $643.00
P Royal Deck: $760.00
Jr. Suite/Royal Deck: $1,403.00
TOUR MAP
