A unique small-group tour in the countryside of Provence, France with Kathy and Charley Wood |
Experiences in the Luberon - September 2006
See more photos from our September 2006 tours Other than a bit of rain on the two weekends, we enjoyed absolutely beautiful September weather. The grape harvest (vendange) was under way when we arrived. There were so many extraordinary moments during these two weeks, but a highlight for everyone was our Monday lunch at La Bastide Vieille, the very special house where our family lived during our six-and-a-half months in Provence. Our good friends Cynthia and Ian hosted lunches for both our groups, and we had two truly memorable afternoons.
Lunch at La Bastide Vieille Everyone also enjoyed Wednesday's cooking class and dinner at the home of our friend Janice Jacquet. We learned some new cooking techniques from Janice and then enjoyed dinner, wine and conversation outside on her terrace. Our first week group decided to use the "free day" to relax and enjoy the village and at the B&B. The second week group was anxious to see the Mediterranean, so we headed south to Cassis - an ideal destination and a very different aspect of Provence. Read what our travelers said about their week in the Luberon See more photos from our September 2006 tours Feedback from Luberon Travelers"The whole trip was so special - the visits to the towns, market days, wineries. We were immersed in the culture and life of the region. We learned a great deal about the towns, the history, the people, the food, and the wine." "It was so easy to relax and be comfortable, especially because we didn't have to pack and tramp to a new destination every few days. The sense of urgency to see it all in a day was gone. Kathy and Charley gave us the opportunity to meet wonderful people and experience incredible out of the way places where no tour guide would take you. I felt like I had spent a week at a dear friend's home." "What a magical week and with so much history ... we could have never experienced what we did had we just traveled on our own. I thought I knew France and the French from my previous trip to Paris. Was I ever wrong!" "My favorite part of the trip was feeling like I really "experienced" the culture as opposed to being a true tourist. The group size was ideal for a trip like this. The mix of activities and Kathy and Charley's personal connection to the area greatly enhanced our week." "I really appreciated the kindness and friendliness of everyone - the leaders, the other trip members, and the people we met. I felt like I had known everyone for ages." "I loved meeting and spending time with the people in Bonnieux. The entire area was wonderful. And the dinners were awesome." "Kathy and Charley are the very best aspect of the trip. They are both gifted leaders - warm, fun-loving and sensitive. And clearly in love with the Luberon!" "Meals were a major highlight of the trip. Restaurants were diverse but all were good. The wait staff helped make memories. Wonderful selections were offered. Settings were unique and memorable. The food itself was over-the-top ... and the wine too!" |
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