This Years France Travel Trends Thursday, Jun 4 2009

One interesting thing about being in the travel industry is being able to see and experience travel trends on a daily basis. As a France travel specialist, it is great fun to see where people are going and to help them to discover there dream destinations in France. However, each year a destination quickly becomes the years new  trend.

Perhaps sometimes you can link this popularity back to specific magazine or newspaper articles, movies, books, etc, but regardless of what is the cause, each year always brings a new trend. This years destination is always a popular choice in France, but the surprise this year seems to be an even higher increase in travelers to Provence. Travelers are not only going to Provence, but they seem to be staying longer.

 More and more people are venturing out of Paris and into many regions of France, so it isn’t any wonder that these travelers have selected an area with plenty of sunshine, charming towns and villages, roman ruins, picturesque vistas, and sensational food and wine. With barely six months into the year, trends can change and I can’t wait to see what the second half of the year holds. I look forward to the trends with great anticipation and I invite everyone to discover France. www.francejourneys.com

One Response »

 

Worst Hotel Ever! Wednesday, May 27 2009

I think I just visited the worst hotel on the planet!

Perhaps I should start a list. Most people enjoy the top ten lists, but I wonder if anyone would be interested in the best of the worst list. For what it is worth, here is number one. I was just  in New York on business and looked to my favorite Hilton property only to find they were booked full. Darn, we all have our favorites. Anyway, I ended up at the Waldorf…..Ughh.  Now I can understand that there is a check in time and I can certainly abide by this, but when you have earned their highest frequent traveler level, should you have to wait even beyond regular check in times. 

I guess the anwser is yes! It doesn’t matter to the Waldorf, they are happy to put on a smile and tell you they will get you in your room asap, but they don’t mean it. They are even happier to make their best clients wait beyond regular check in and then do nothing to make amends. I was promised an amenity only to have waited 4 hours. I turned it down when it came, how hard is hot tea to make? It doesn’t take 4 hours. I was also promised a letter from the hotel and I have yet to receive anything, it has been several weeks.

I guess I am always kind of a positive sort of a person and try to look on the bright side, so I guess the bright side is that I will never stay at this hotel again.

With all this said. I love New York and all it has to offer, just find a different hotel and enjoy your stay. I prefer the Hilton on the Avenue of Americas, they can have my business anytime!

Leave a Response »

 

Great deal to Paris Wednesday, May 27 2009

If you haven’t flow Open Skies, now is the time to give it a go. This all business class airline has a two for one deal going until May 31, 2009. It means alot to travel  7 hours or more by plane with plenty of room for your legs and not feel like you are sitting in someones lap. It may mean you have to travel from Newark and you will have a domestic flight to get there, but this is a minor detail to pay for your comfort.

The airline was once L’Avion and although it hasn’t change much since being taken over by British Airways, it is an easy decision to fly on a plane that would normally hold 200 people and by choice the airline arranges the plane to only seat 80.  Hats off to the airline that gives something back to the customers comfort.

Leave a Response »

 

Cote d’Azur Surprises Friday, May 15 2009

Thinking back on my recent visits to the South of France I never tire of the magic it holds. This trip I really enjoyed visiting Antibes. I had been there in the past and was not a big fan, but this time it was different. Maybe it was finding the perfect place to stay. Imagine a terra cotta Italian style villa with beautiful fountains, pool, and an over all relaxing atmosphere. I felt so at home at the  Hotel Imperial Groupe that I didn’t want to leave.

Another one of the highlights of the trip included a visit to an Absinthe Bar, also in Antibes. This was alot of fun since I was with a small group and I was surprised to learn that there is a method to preparing and drinking absinthe. First of all the owner gave a little history of Absinthe and invited us all to put on a hat from the bar, since this is customary in these establishments. Next our glasses were filled one per table, since we were told that the absinthe is so strong it kills any germs. I was thinking OK I guess I am game to try. A decanter with little faucets was filled with water and placed in the middle of the table.  The glass was placed under one of the faucets and a flat type spoon with holes was placed on the top of the glass. A sugar cube that was soaked in absinthe was placed on the spoon and the faucet was turned on to a slow drip to dissolve the sugar cube. Once the sugar cube was dissoved, you turn the faucet off and drink the cloudy beverage. It did have a licorice taste and wasn’t half bad. What a great morning…..then it was off to lunch.

Lunch was at a restaurant right on the water in Antibes and although the food was very good, the biggest surprise was the toilets in the restrooms. Upon flushing the seat began to move until it had rotated in a complete circle and been cleaned by something on the back of the toilet. Check out this video you won’t believe your eyes. http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=432632

Leave a Response »

 

Ahh Provence and the Cote d’Azur Sunday, May 3 2009

Just back from Provence and the Cote d’Azur and my trip left me yet again wondering why I live in Michigan.(cloudy and cold 6 months of the year). Don’t get me wrong, Michigan has its good points to lakes, seasons, family, but maybe this time of year I am just ready for the nice weather to come and southern France was the anwser.  

As for my trip one word comes to mind. Magnifique! This trip I flew into Marseilles, I usually fly into Paris and take the train down to Avignon. Having never done this before it was very easy, but there is something about the train that I really enjoy. Provence is one of my favorite regions of France. The feeling here is relaxed and welcoming. The region has much to offer and many of its locations, small towns and villages have been the backdrop for many of movies and books.  Once you have been to Provence and see its beauty,it is no wonder most will return again and again.

Avignon has some superb hotels and some great restauants too. For those looking for superb accomodations in Avignon, consider Hotel d’Europe,  La Mirande, or Cloitre Saint Louis. While La Mirande and Hotel d’Europe have a very elegant and classic french appeal, Cloitre Saint Louis combines old world architechural excellence with modern furnishings. These hotels all have remarkable restaurants and all are worth a try. My favorite meal this time to Avignon was my meal at La Mirande. What I remember most is the pumpkin soup that was a gastromic experience unto itself. Each bite of the soup brought a new surprise and flavor. Imagine tastes of pumpkin, carrot, onion, and cream melded together in this wonderful soup.  Yummm!

The city of Avignon is a fantastic site to see with the fortified walls around the city center, charming squares, shops, markets, and of course one of the highlights, the Palais des Papes. The Popes Palace is where the Popes lived in the 14th century and the gothic architecture is very impressive. I had the opportunity tour the palace and to do a wine-tasting. A selection of Cote du Rhone wines were presenting in a small boutique with some exceptional varieties. So if you visit, don’t pass up a chance to get a bottle or two of some of the best Cote du Rhones wines to back to your room to enjoy.

I also had the opportunity to do a wine-tasting at Caves Mousset. This beautiful chateau and cellar overlook the picturesque vineyards of Chateauneuf du Pape. The tasting itself was a progression of several wines from the area and the presenter was very knowledgable. There is a beautiful hotel and gastronomic restaurant, Chateau des Fines Roches next door that offers a beautiful and romantic setting with rooms  and a garden terrace that look out on the vineyards. This was my second visit here and I think I rather prefer September with the vines at there fullest and grapes ready for harvest. In springtime the vines are still very small from where they are cut back after harvest, but still……anytime of year is always great for a tasting.

Another amazing treat, was to visit La Bastide des Princes, a small and charming B & B located between Orange and Chateauneuf du Pape. The B & B has five tastefully decorated rooms that overlook the beautful garden and grounds. One of the highlights was the cooking class that Chef Phillip Paumel puts on with the product of your efforts being served in a traditional provencial dining  style. The food was amazing from start to finish and Phillip and his wife Annie are very gracious hosts and make their guest very welcome.

More to come.

One Response »

 

Connoisseur of Air Travel – Surprised Wednesday, Mar 25 2009

Now I consider myself a bit of a connoisseur of airline travel through my own travels and my clients. Over the years and as of late, I have learned not to expect much from the service and experience onboard. With my share of bad and mediocre flights under my belt, perhaps I have earned the right to now mention a surprisingly exceptional experience I recently had on a flight from Detroit to South Africa by way of Paris on Air France.

We all know the routine. Arrive at the airport hours early to board an international flight where no one will even know you exist for 8, 10, 15 or more hours. You are then treated to second-rate food onboard for your trouble and then dismissed with hopes that your luggage has made it as well. This is usually the case when I fly regardless of the class of service, but this time was different. On the flight to Paris, the flights attendants onboard were both charming and attentive. They were truly concerned for my comfort and well being and willing to assist me from the moment I stepped onboard, to the time I disembarked. I really don’t require much of anything when I fly and perhaps that day the notable difference was the service, professional demeanor and hospitality they showed to me and to the other passengers around me. The food of course was good, I am not disappointed with the food when I fly Air France and this was no exception. It is always a treat when you can eat whatever the airlines serve and sometimes it might be better to go hungry, but this was not the case . 

All in all, this was a refreshing experience in these days of no frills and I am thrilled  to be onboard another Air France flight in April.  Well done Air France, keep up the good work! Bravo!

Leave a Response »

 

Most “Kissable”Spots in Paris! Wednesday, Feb 4 2009

Ahhhh, L’amour! Checkout the most  “Kissable” Spots in Paris for you and your Valentine.

 When you think about the most romantic cities in the world, Paris would have to be high on most peoples’ list. Is it any wonder, that both honeymooners and romantics alike flock to this “City of Light” to discover l’amour? To inspire your romantic side, here is a list of the most kissable spots in Paris!

Pont des Arts This pedestrian bridge that crosses the Seine River is always bustling. The Pont des Arts is always filled with people, music, painters, and of course, couples kissing. Settle in and watch the boats on the Seine and enjoy the ambience and the excitement.

 

Place de la Concorde Standing in Place de la Concorde with its beautiful fountain and obelisk, you can enjoy the spectacular view down the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe. Wait until dark for the most dramatic effect and sneak a kiss in this grand square. Something about the Paris traffic surrounding you and the thrill of just being here, will make this kiss memorable!

 

Seine River It doesn’t get more romantic then a cruise on the Seine River with that special someone. Make it a night cruise and see the magnificent bridges and all of Paris lit up just for you! If you’re feeling a little like Gene Kelly in “An American in Paris”, then charm your “Leslie Caron” with your own rendition of “Our Love Is Here to Stay”. Steal a kiss under each bridge as you pass. Dinner cruises are a great way to enjoy some French cuisine and linger on the Seine perhaps just a little longer. Parisian cuisine is just a little more romantic on the river.

Montmarte Climb the steps of Montmarte and all of Paris is before you. There are breathtaking views of Paris and kisses to be shared as you gaze out on the city. Climb to Sacre Couer, the highest point in Paris for the best views of the city and then share a hot chocolat’ at one of the charming Montmarte cafes around the corner.

 

 Musée Rodin The Musée Rodin is probably not the first museum that visitors go to in Paris, but it is one of the most charming and overlooked. The gardens behind the museum are very tranquil and there are plenty of benches on which to pass the afternoon. A welcome respite from the busy city streets, this oasis might be just the place to relax, enjoy a picnic and “reconnect” with a lingering kiss!

 

 

Musée Carnavalet Explore the history of Paris and discover the favorite spots for kissing at this museum. The hallways and gardens at the Musée Carnavalet are the perfect spot to kiss. Go ahead and give it try, after all you’re in Paris!

 

 

 

 The top of the Eiffel Tower is always a favorite for lovers. Overlooking the beautiful “City of Light”, the tower is the perfect place to steal a kiss. Trocadero square with its spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower is one of the best locations in Paris to watch the sunrise or sunset. Make it a point to spend a little extra time kissing here and enjoy the color show. If you want to relax and enjoy a picnic in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, try the Champ de Mars park. This very romantic place and setting will surely lead to one last kiss in Paris. ~ Sandy McDowell, France Journeys www.francejourneys.com

Leave a Response »

 

Paris Museum Favs – Not What You Think Saturday, Jan 31 2009

As many times as I have traveled to Paris, I never get tired of strolling through the world class museums. Museum favorites are definitely a personal choice, but for me it is not the Louvre or even the d’Orsay that speak to my soul. Don’t get me wrong I love both of these museums…..who doesn’t enjoy walking around the seemingly endless halls of the Louvre or lingering at the d’Orsay among the worlds greatest Impressionist works. But my passion lies in two the smaller museums in Paris, the Rodin and the l’Orangerie.

The Rodin sculptures are captivating, the Thinker, the Gates of Hell, the Kiss, and more, but it is the garden and beautiful house that create a special setting for these masterpieces both inside and out. As you walk through the garden to view the outdoor sculptures, you will enjoy the peaceful and beautiful surroundings. Well lanscaped footpaths will take you past sculptures, fountains, benches, and trellises, all in the shadow of the gold Dome known as Les Invalides. The garden is so beautiful, you may not want to leave. Maybe the best part of visiting the Rodin is that the crowds never seem to be overwelming and really allowing you to enjoy your visit.

L’Orangerie is a small museum on the edge of the Tuilleries Garden and Place de la Concorde. The museum was closed for six years as they excavated a Roman wall that can be viewed on the lower level. One of the most amazing sights to see is the Monet Le Nympheas (waterlillies) painting.  These paintings are each over six feet tall and are almost 300 feet long. They hang in two oval shaped rooms that house the series based on the effects of time of day, atmosphere and season upon color and light.  You won’t want to miss this one!

Leave a Response »

 

Wow! France Offers Freebies Saturday, Jan 24 2009

Coming soon all persons under 25 will be admitted free to French National Monuments and Museums. Thanks to French President Sarkozy, who stated this will go into effect April 4, 2009. Get ready to see all and save a few bucks! Only about 100 museums make the list as National, but the list is still pretty impressive. Till now it had been those 18 and under that were admitted free. Savings are also still available for anyone  on the first Sunday of the month, making it  free to attend many of the National Museums and monuments

Louvre

.

Leave a Response »

 

Culinary Travel – How about France? Tuesday, Jan 20 2009

 According to the Specialty Travel Agents Association’s 2009 Travel Trends and Destinations, Culinary Travel is one of the fastest growing segments in travel. You can ask anyone about their vacation and you are likely to hear about some type of food they enjoyed during their travels. People love to talk about food, but more importantly they love to eat it and even learn about it. This is where the growing demand for travel that includes delicious food and wine itineraries comes in.

Traveling for an authentic culinary experience gives travelers a unique perspective into a destination by experiencing the local cuisine. Culinary options are available worldwide and may include learning about food production, local markets excursions, cooking classes, wine tastings, farm stays and more. All will insure you the opportunity to tempt your senses and delight your palate.

Of course I may be partial as a France travel specialist, but France might be the pefect destination to have a real culinary experience. Imagine traveling throughout France and sampling the different cheeses, wines, specialty dishes, and desserts  from each region.  From the cafes of Paris to the perched village restaurants of the Riviera, the experience will continue as you see what care has gone into the presentation of the dishes they serve.

To go along with culinary tourism in France, consider the possiblilites and what you could discover that might tempt  you taste buds. Here are a few to get you started. Feel free to comment and add to the list.

• Macaroons from Ladurée Paris
• Champagne tasting in Reims or Epernay
• Scrumptious desserts and hot chocolate from Angelina’s in Paris
• Apple tarts and Calvados served in Normandy
• Truffles and Lyonaisse cuisine in the Rhone Alpes
• Duck from Au Gamin, Le Petit Canard, or La Tour d’Argent
• Visit an outdoor market for local specialties
• Shopping on rue Cler for delicious goodies

One Response »