Saturday, November 30, 2024

Burgundy... a color or a wine?

So we've received requests about other regions of France to possibly visit prior to or after the Tour in Provence... specifically The Burgundy & Normandy Regions and sights to see /  villages to visit... If we can help any of you with advice on specific areas, please reach out to us!  (clicking on any of the photos in this post will take you to more detailed info about the village or sight)

Burgundy is a captivating tapestry woven with history, art, and natural beauty. Its rolling hills, quaint villages, and world-renowned vineyards create a picturesque landscape that invites exploration. The region's rich cultural heritage is evident in its magnificent Romanesque churches, medieval castles, and historic towns. Dijon, the vibrant capital, boasts a charming old town with its iconic Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy and the lively Place de la Libération. Beaune, another gem, is renowned for its Hospices de Beaune, a historic charitable institution with its distinctive tiled roof.

Beyond its historical significance, Burgundy is a paradise for wine lovers. The Côte d'Or, a renowned wine region, produces some of the world's finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Vineyards stretch across the hillsides, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to taste exceptional wines. The region's culinary scene is equally impressive, with hearty Burgundian dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon and Coq au Vin delighting taste buds.

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Burgundy's diverse landscapes. The Morvan Regional Natural Park, with its dense forests, sparkling lakes, and picturesque villages, is a hiker's paradise. The Canal du Bourgogne offers serene boat trips through lush countryside, while the Canal de Bourgogne winds its way through charming towns and vineyards.

Whether you're exploring historic sites, indulging in fine wine and food, or simply enjoying the peaceful countryside, Burgundy offers an unforgettable experience. Its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination for those seeking a taste of authentic France.

So Mollie, below are a few of the highlights you & your husband might want to check out... we've attached links on the photos; clicking on them will take you to pages with lots more details...

  • Dijon: Explore the charming streets of the capital city, admire the Ducal Palace, and indulge in Dijon mustard.
  • Beaune: Discover the historic Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century charitable institution, and sample fine Burgundy wines.
  • Cluny: Visit the majestic Cluny Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery, and immerse yourself in medieval history.
  • Vézelay: Marvel at the Basilica of Sainte-Madeleine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Chablis: Embark on a wine-tasting journey in the renowned Chablis region, known for its crisp and elegant white wines.
  • Château de Commarin: Step back in time at this magnificent 14th-century castle, complete with moats, towers, and beautiful gardens.
  • Château du Clos de Vougeot: Tour this historic wine estate, home to the prestigious Brotherhood of the Knights of Tastevin, and learn about Burgundy's winemaking traditions.
  • Burgundy Canal: Embark on a leisurely boat trip along the Burgundy Canal, taking in the picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
  • Romanesque Churches: Discover the region's rich Romanesque heritage by visiting the many churches and cathedrals, such as the one in Autun.
  • Local Cuisine: Indulge in Burgundian specialties like escargot, boeuf bourguignon, and coq au vin, paired with the region's world-class wines.
  • Mont-Saint-Michel: Marvel at the iconic tidal island crowned by a magnificent abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • D-Day Landing Beaches: Pay homage to the fallen at the historic beaches of Normandy, including Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and Juno Beach.
  • Bayeux Tapestry: Explore the intricate details of the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry, a historical masterpiece depicting the Norman conquest of England.
  • Rouen: Discover the charming city of Rouen, with its Gothic cathedral, half-timbered houses, and the historic Place du Vieux-Marché.
  • Honfleur: Wander through the picturesque harbor town of Honfleur, admiring its colorful houses, art galleries, and maritime history.
  • Giverny: Visit the enchanting gardens of Claude Monet, a renowned Impressionist painter, and immerse yourself in his artistic inspiration.
  • Deauville: Experience the elegance of Deauville, a fashionable seaside resort with its elegant villas, casino, and famous Planches boardwalk.
  • Etretat: Marvel at the dramatic chalk cliffs of Étretat, a popular destination for artists and nature lovers.
  • Norman Cuisine: Indulge in the region's culinary delights, including fresh seafood, Calvados apple brandy, and Camembert cheese.

  • Norman Cider Routes: Embark on a scenic drive through the Norman countryside, exploring apple orchards and cider houses.

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Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Do something truly Magical this Holiday Season... Share!

 Thanksgiving, the gateway to The Holiday Season, is a time to reflect on all the blessings in our lives, and a reminder of the importance of gratitude. It's a day to gather with loved ones, share a meal, and express thanks for all that we have.

Gratitude is not just about feeling thankful; it's about actively acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of our lives. When we focus on what we are grateful for, we shift our perspective from lack to abundance and that gratitude opens our hearts and minds to the beauty that surrounds us, big and small.

By cultivating gratitude, we can improve our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can reduce stress, increase happiness, and strengthen our relationships. It's a simple yet powerful way to enhance our lives and the lives of those around us. This Thanksgiving, let's take a moment to pause and reflect on the things we are grateful for. Let's express our thanks to those who have made a positive impact on our lives. And let's carry the spirit of gratitude with us throughout the year, making every day a day of thanks.

Charity, an off-shoot of gratitude, is a virtue that uplifts both the giver and the receiver. It’s the selfless act of giving, a beacon of hope in a world often shadowed by darkness. Charitable individuals possess empathy, understanding the plight of others. They are generous, willingly sharing their resources, time, or talents. Their kindness creates ripples of positivity, inspiring others to follow suit. By giving back, they foster a sense of community and make the world a better place, one act of compassion at a time. 

Take a moment to consider all the incredible riches in your life, and then do something truly magical this Holiday Season... Share! Whether by dropping a dollar in a Salvation Army Red Bucket, or donating a few canned goods to your local food pantry, your simple act of kindness brightens both your world and the lives those less fortunate... Grace is so much more then just a little prayer you say before eating a meal... it’s a way to live your life!

 As America gives their Thanks to the world, we'd like to offer our Thanks to America! As you get together with your loved ones, we can't help but remember what president John F. Kennedy so famously told the world: "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to just utter words, but to live by them." The poppy fields all over Europe are a constant reminder of the sacrifices America made for The world... We are truly & forever grateful... 

America, you are truly a great nation... May you be proud of your contributions to the world, and may your Star Spangled Banner fly free & proud today and everyday! 

Happy Thanksgiving America!

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Saturday, November 23, 2024

You're going to want to bring home something!

these blues & yellows are the traditional colors of Provence
 Our guests are always asking us about the "typical" products of the area and what to bring back as souvenirs of their time in Provence.   

So one our very favorite "gets" while we're in The South of France is Provençal tablecloths!  When we're at home, we enjoy entertaining, and we love to use these colorful tablecloths! They've been one of our favorite souvenirs ever since we brought our first Group to Provence back in 2008...  We can't get enough of them! 

Provencal tablecloths made from Les indiennes are a celebration of casual beauty. These vibrant fabrics, with their kaleidoscopic floral and geometric patterns, evoke the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence. Crafted from cotton, they drape effortlessly, adding a touch of rustic charm to any table setting. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner or a large gathering, a Provencal tablecloth creates an inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of leisurely lunches under the shade of a fig tree. Their bold colors and intricate designs instantly transform a simple meal into a feast for the eyes.

If you're not already aware of these popular tablecloths, you'll see them all over France on your upcoming trip this summer!  Their casual elegance and colorful Provençal hues are easy to fall in love with! And the best part is you'll find them at the markets everywhere at great prices! Save room in your suitcase to bring one home!

French tablecloths have a fascinating history. And you'll appreciate your tablecloth so much more if you understand the backstory... So, let’s go through the history; For many people, just the sight of these beautiful brightly colored tablecloths with their distinctive patterns of olive branches, vines, sunflowers, lavender, lemons and cicadas will certainly trigger longings for The South of France. The intense sun-drenched colors of these vibrant, bright fabrics are an iconic symbol of Provence. However, they were not originally created in France...
Les Indiennes
These exotic textiles first arrived in France from India in the early 17th century mainly through the port of Marseille. Les Indiennes as they were known, were an instant success in Europe for clothing and furnishing. These luxurious fabrics were light, bright and importantly, color fast. As a result, the French loved them. Responding to demand, the French soon started producing their own versions.

The booming import trade didn’t go unnoticed. In 1664, King Louis XIV wanted to take control. So, he had his Minister of Finance, Jean-Baptiste Colbert, create the Compagnie des Indes (East India Company). Armenian dyers and fabric makers were brought into Marseille to share their skills with local producers. Originally the dyes were obtained from natural materials. Each color in a design was applied with separate woodblock impressions. 


Les indiennes became all the rage at the French court. The new style was satirised by Molière in a production of his comedy ( Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme). In this 1670 production, the playwright himself played the vulgar nouveau riche merchant M. Jourdain. He was splendidly attired in a dressing gown made of the fabric – with the pattern printed upside-down.
However, not everyone was happy. The French silk and wool manufacturers suffered with the new, less-expensive competition. As a result, several factories in Lyon were forced to close. In 1686, they successfully lobbied the government to stop the importation and production of les indiennes.

Those Clever French
So, no more colorful fabric? Not exactly. Les indiennes manufacturers simply dodged the law by moving to Avignon. This lovely city belonged to the Vatican and was under Papal rather than French jurisdiction. The ban only increased the enthusiasm of the public for these brightly colored materials.
Officially the ban lasted 73 years and was lifted in 1759. Les indiennes took off again and were incredibly popular for the next century. Easy to wear, wash and maintain, they were traditionally used in Provence for household goods including tablecloths, bedspreads and clothing.Women wore skirts, scarves and aprons, sometimes of different designs all at once, while men wore colorful waistcoats and kerchiefs.
Artisanal production was hit hard in the aftermath of Europe’s industrialisation. Because of this, many small companies closed down. But today les indiennes are more popular than ever in Provence. Many of the companies producing these iconic French tablecloths have a long and proud history.

These tablecloths make great souvenirs of your adventures to The South of France as they're easy to pack and take home in a suitcase... and they're a great memory of your trip as you use them over & over through the years! We used one for a small dinner party we hosted over the weekend and of course it brought back so many great memories!



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Wednesday, November 20, 2024

30 Day Courtesy Reminder ~ Final Balances

 Hi Guys, 

Hope you are all doing well as we head into the Holiday Season! And we hope you're enjoying the Blog!  We've started getting a few requests from some of you asking when your Final Balances are due.  So Final Balances are due six months before departure, which for those of you on the June 21st tour is no later than December 21st and for those of you on the June 28th Tour; December 28th.  (If you're unsure of your Final Balance, just reply to this email, and we'll be happy to look it up for you)

Postal delivery times increase significantly in late December: We politely ask that you allow plenty of time for this payment to reach us on time. 

The easiest and most inexpensive way to make this payment to to simply send us a check... Sending a check is of course free of any additional fees. If you choose to send a check, your total would be the (per person) cost of your  Tour minus the $750 (per person) deposit you made when you signed up, and any Alumni Discounts you may have accrued.  (ie: if you reserved a Premium Room at $3995 per person, made the $750 deposit and accrued a $75 Alumni discount from a prior trip with us; your Final Balance would be $$3170)

Please make checks payable to Adventures To Tuscany and mail to:
Adventures To Tuscany 
215 Country Acres Dr, 
Kunkletown, PA 18058

We're also happy to accept Visa, MasterCard, & American Express, but again as you know, we tack on the additional 2.75% processing fees that the bank charges. If you choose to use a credit card, we've attached our Credit Card Authorization Form to this email; just fill out & sign the form and email it back to us. (to calculate the processing fee, just multiply your balance due by .0275).

On behalf of our entire Adventures to Tuscany team, we extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support of our business. Your trust and patronage is  instrumental in our success, and we are truly honored to have you as valued guests. 

We hope your Holiday Season is truly Grand & we look forward to meeting you in a few short months!

Tommy & Terese

While many people thought Gilbert O'Sullivan's 
chart-topping hit "Claire" was a romantic song, 
it was actually a tribute to his producer's 3 year old daughter, 
Claire,  with whom O'Sullivan shared a special friendship...




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Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Nice is just a place in France...

While some of you have told us you're heading to Paris before meeting up with the group in Provence, we received a recent request from one of our guests, for possible sights to see and places to visit on The French Riviera where they are heading as a pre-tour destination.  And we know there are others of you considering spending some time along the coast in this same area, so we've put together a short list of sights that you might want to consider.

The French Riviera, a sun-drenched stretch of the Mediterranean coast, beckons with its undeniable charm and breathtaking beauty. From the vibrant city of Nice to the glamorous principality of Monaco, this region has captivated visitors for centuries.  Along the coastline, azure waters meet pristine beaches, inviting sunbathers and swimmers to bask in the warm Mediterranean sun. Picturesque seaside towns, such as Antibes and Saint-Tropez, exude a laid-back elegance, with pastel-colored houses cascading down to the sea.

Beyond the coastal allure, the French Riviera boasts a rich cultural heritage. In the hilltop village of Èze, medieval ruins blend seamlessly with lush gardens, offering panoramic views of the coastline. The historic city of Cannes, renowned for its film festival, boasts a glamorous promenade lined with luxury boutiques and chic cafes.  The region's diverse landscape also includes rolling hills, vineyards, and charming Provençal villages. Inland, visitors can explore the fragrant lavender fields of the Plateau de Valensole or wander through the picturesque streets of Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.

Whether you seek sun-soaked relaxation, cultural immersion, or a taste of luxury, the French Riviera offers an unforgettable experience. Its captivating beauty, combined with its vibrant atmosphere and rich history, make it a truly enchanting destination.

(we've included details about each location, so clicking on any of the photos below,  will take you to pages with more detailed info)

Eze

Perched on a hilltop, Eze offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with art galleries, boutiques, and charming cafes. Don't miss the exotic cactus garden, a unique oasis filled with rare and fascinating plant life.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence

This medieval village, with its fortified walls and cobblestone streets, is a haven for artists and art lovers. Explore the galleries, admire the works of renowned painters, and soak up the bohemian atmosphere.

Menton

Known as the "Pearl of the French Riviera," Menton is a charming town with a vibrant lemon festival in February. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit the historic old town, or explore the beautiful gardens.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer

This elegant seaside resort town offers a mix of luxury and tranquility. Relax on the pristine beaches, explore the picturesque harbor, or visit the stunning Villa Kérylos, a replica of a Greek villa.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

A haven for the rich and famous, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a beautiful peninsula with stunning coastal scenery. Explore the luxurious villas, stroll along the scenic coastal paths, or visit the enchanting Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

This picturesque village is nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Visit the medieval village, explore the botanical gardens, or hike along the coastal paths.

Tourrettes-sur-Loup

This charming hilltop village is famous for its vibrant violet fields, which bloom in the spring. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the colorful houses, and visit the local market.

Image of TourrettessurLoup, French Riviera




Biot

Known for its glassblowing tradition, Biot is a delightful village with a picturesque old town. Visit the glassblowing workshops, explore the art galleries, or simply wander through the charming streets.


Whether you're seeking sun-soaked beaches, cultural experiences, or a touch of luxury, Cannes and Nice offer something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the glamour of the French Riviera and create unforgettable memories in these two iconic cities.  Cannes and Nice, two iconic cities on the French Riviera, offer a dazzling array of attractions for visitors seeking sun, culture, and glamour. Here's a glimpse into a few of the must-see experiences in these captivating destinations:

Cannes

  • La Croisette: This world-famous boulevard is the heart of Cannes, lined with luxurious hotels, designer boutiques, and pristine beaches. Stroll along the promenade, soak up the sun, or indulge in some high-end shopping.
  • Palais des Festivals et des Congrès: Home to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, this iconic building is a must-visit for cinephiles. Even if you're not attending the festival, you can admire its architecture and explore its exhibitions.
  • Le Suquet: Step back in time in the charming old town of Cannes, Le Suquet. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, discover quaint shops and art galleries, and enjoy panoramic views from the Church of Notre-Dame-d'Espérance.
  • Lérins Islands: Take a boat trip to the idyllic Lérins Islands, a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Explore the fortified island of Sainte-Marguerite, once home to the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask, or visit the peaceful island of Saint-Honorat, inhabited by Cistercian monks.

Nice

  • Promenade des Anglais: This iconic waterfront promenade is a must-see in Nice. Rent a bike, rollerblade, or simply stroll along the palm-lined walkway, admiring the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Vieux Nice: Lose yourself in the narrow, colorful streets of Vieux Nice, the old town of Nice. Discover charming squares, historic churches, and local markets, where you can sample delicious Provençal cuisine.
  • Place Masséna: This elegant square is the heart of Nice, surrounded by beautiful 19th-century buildings and adorned with ornate fountains. Relax in one of the cafés, watch the world go by, or admire the stunning architecture.
  • Musée Matisse: Art lovers should not miss the Musée Matisse, dedicated to the works of the renowned French artist Henri Matisse. Explore his vibrant paintings, sculptures, and drawings, housed in a beautiful Belle Époque villa.
  • Colline du Château: Climb the hill to the ruins of the Château de Nice for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the coastline. Enjoy a picnic, explore the archaeological site, or simply soak up the stunning scenery.




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