Food Network Flavors of France

Airport transfers on arrival in Paris Charles de Gaulle airport at 08:30, 11:30 & 14:30 (Ala Carte: Individual transfers may be purchased if arriving outside of these times)

Departure transfers from Nice airport at 07:00 & 08:30 (Ala Carte: guests may purchase individual transfers if requiring outside of these times)

Welcome Drink at dinner on the first night with your Food Network Travel Host and fellow Food Network guests

First Class hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges and baggage handling

8 Full Breakfasts (B), 1 Be “By Invitation” Luncheon (BIL), 1 Hands-On Cooking Class with Lunch (CLL), 1 Highlight Lunch at Chateau de Pommard (HL), 2 dinners (D), 1 Highlight Dinner (HD) and 1 Farewell Dinner (FD) – total 3 lunches & 4 dinners

Services of a professional Food Network Travel Host (Trafalgar Tour Director)

Private luxury motorcoach with Food Network branding, air-conditioning, reclining seats and a restroom

Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable

Gratuities to Tour Director & Driver are not included

2 Nights Paris — Le Meridien Etoile

Le Meridien Etoile is located on Paris’ Right Bank, just steps away from the legendary Champs-Elysee. Close to many of the most famous sights in the city, including the Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre. You can enjoy a meal in the hotel restaurant, L’Orenoc Terrasse, or a drink in the hotel’s Jazz Club, Etoile, which has become one of the most distinguished institutions in Paris for jazz lovers.

1 Night Lyon — Radisson Blu Hotel

The Radisson Blu Lyon is a 4-star hotel located slightly east of the Rhone River and near Old Town. Enjoy spectacular views over the picturesque city of Lyon from the Ciel de Lyon bar on the 32nd floor, or enjoy a short stroll into Old Town where you can explore the many boutique food shops and restaurants.

3 Nights St-Remy de Provence — Le Vallon de Valrugues

The 4-star Le Vallon de Valrugues is a luxurious hotel that provides a serene environment for relaxation and enjoyment. Spend time by the pool, wander the avenues of the picturesque Provencal village in which the hotel is located, or treat yourself to a spa treatment in the hotel.

2 Nights Nice — Holiday Inn Nice

Located in a quiet boulevard just a short amble from the beach, Holiday Inn Nice offers comfortable and modern accommodations, contemporary in style and design. Soak up the relaxed Cote d’Azur ambiance on the breezy tree-shaded terrace outside the bistro restaurant.

Day 1 – Depart from USA
Get ready for the “City of Light” as your overnight flight whisks you away to romantic Paris.

Day 2 – Arrive in Paris
Welcome to Paris, the glittering capital of France! After check-in there will be time to relax or perhaps explore the local area. This evening is a chance to get to know your Food Network Tour Director and fellow Food Network guests over dinner at a charming bistro overlooking the Seine and the rose window of Notre Dame Cathedral.

Day 3 – Paris
Spend the day exploring the gems of this vibrant and exciting city. This morning, a local expert guide will show you the architectural highlights of the city on an orientation tour, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Pantheon, Les Invalides, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre. You will then stop to enjoy a trip up the iconic Eiffel Tower for spectacular views over the city.

The afternoon and evening are all yours to wander down the Champs-Elysees, take in the magnificent offerings of one of the many museums such as the Louvre (a Rachael Ray “must see”) or the Musee d’Orsay, or perhaps shop along the grand boulevards. Try out the wonderful delicacies at gourmet shops, such as Fauchon or Hediard on the Place de la Madeleine, and don’t forget the world famous macaroons at Pierre Herme on Rue Cambon. Pierre Herme was featured on Giada’s Weekend Getaways and is also known to be a favorite of the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten. This evening, try out one of the restaurants in Montmartre or fashionable St. Germain, where at 72 Bonaparte you’ll encounter a second opportunity to sample the delicious creations of Pierre Herme, often referred to as the “Picasso of Pastries”.

Day 4 – Paris/Beaune/Lyon
This morning leave the French capital behind and drive south toward Auxerre, into the wine-producing region of Burgundy. We’ll have a tasting and highlight lunch at the famous Chateau de Pommard, hosted by Chef Maria and overlooking the vineyards.

Then stroll around the cobblestone streets of Beaune, admiring the historical mansions, medieval half-timbered houses, and garden squares before travelling to Lyon.

This city stands at the meeting of the Saône and Rhône Rivers and has developed a reputation as the gastronomy capital of France. This is due, in part, to the presence of many of France's finest chefs in the city and its surroundings. An orientation tour shows you the 19th-century elegance of the Place Bellecour, the Old Town along the River Saône, the modern architecture of La Part-Dieu District, and La Fourviere. In the evening you’re free to choose one of the several bistros and ‘bouchons’ in downtown Lyon before perhaps sipping a cocktail in the hotel’s Ciel de Lyon bar, located on the 32nd floor and featuring spectacular views of the city.

Day 5 – Lyon/Chateauneuf Du Pape/St Remmy De Provence
Today follow the Rhône River southward to the renowned Brotte Vineyards, where great Cote du Rhone wines like Châteauneuf-du-Pape are produced. We will enjoy a special tasting of Brotte wines in the cellars at Chateauneuf, and we will also have time to explore the property’s wine museum and pick up a few facts on wine production in the area.

In the village itself, you will find many enticing cafes and restaurants to enjoy a typical Provencal lunch – try some of the local goat cheeses, the delicious olives from the nearby town of Nyon, or perhaps enjoy a bowl of `Soupe au pistou. This is made with many different varieties of beans and other local vegetables and finished off with `pistou’ – garlic, vast quantities of fresh basil and olive oil, made into a paste and added to the soup at the last minute.

Your final destination is the charming Provencal town of St-Remy de Provence, with its narrow streets embellished by fountains, colorful shops and sidewalk cafes. St-Remy is famous for its lavender blooms, so it’s the rare gift shop that doesn’t sell lavender sachets, soap, or sweets.

Tonight, enjoy a hosted dinner in the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant with Chef Marc de Passorio, featuring seasonal ingredients typical of the region, such as a tartare of fish with tapenade and local olive oils or roast breast of duck cooked in Provencal thyme, accompanied by creamy risotto with a fricassee of forest mushrooms, and delicious desserts such as white chocolate and raspberry parfait with a sorbet of passion fruit. (Dishes feature seasonal produce and will vary according to departure date).

Day 6 – St Remy/By Invitation Only Luncheon/Luberon Hilltop Villages
This morning you are at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s swimming pool and spa facilities or to stroll into St-Remy to shop for delicious chocolates and local perfumes, or visit the chic boutiques. At midday, we will drive to the National Park of the Luberon, one of Provence’s most stunningly beautiful regions – and home of a family-run winery where you will enjoy a memorable and mouth-watering By Invitation Only lunch of local Provencal dishes and learn about the excellent wines which are produced in Luberon. Bidding farewell to our hosts, you will marvel at the breathtaking views of the perched hilltop villages of Gordes and Menerbes before returning to St-Remy de Provence.

”By Invitation Only” Luncheon: Domaine Faverot in Maubec
Your Baron awaits! The owner’s great-grandfather was made a Baron by Napoleon, and with his wife and help from the locals, turns out fine Syrah and Carignan wine. This traditional winery is surrounded by vineyards in the sun-baked foothills of the Luberon mountains, southeast of Avignon. It is an 18th century stone country house, winery, and former silk farm, with one wing converted into four unique and beautifully decorated cottages. On arrival, guests will be greeted by a member of the family Faverot de Kerbrech and enjoy an ‘apero’ while they learn about the domaine, the wine, and its history. Visit the cave and enjoy a wine tasting, with a buffet lunch of salad Nicoise, cheese and pepper salad, melon, ham, and flan Vigneron, and a selection of seasonal desserts.

Day 7 – St Remy Market/Hands On Cooking Class/Avignon
This morning we will visit one of the most wonderful and colorful fruit and vegetable markets of the region in the heart of St-Remy. A short drive through landscapes reminiscent of a Van Gogh painting takes us to the charming town of Isle sur la Sorgue – the “Venice of Provence” and largest antiques center in France, after Paris. Here you will meet perhaps the most talented chef in the region – at his restaurant, Le Jardin du Quai.

Using fresh produce of the region, you will learn how to make delicious Provencal specialties, such as `Beignets de fleurs de courgettes,’ ratatouille, ‘petits farcis,’ or sea bass a la provencale. After lunch paired with wine in this tranquil garden restaurant, we will travel a few miles to the lovely city of Avignon, well known for its magnificent Papal Palace, where several popes and antipopes lived from the early 14th to early 15th centuries. Located alongside the Rhone River, Avignon is commemorated by the French children's song, "Sur le pont d'Avignon" ("On the bridge of Avignon"). Take some time to explore this quaint, walled pedestrian city with its squares and sidewalk cafes on your own before returning the short distance to St-Remy de Provence.

Day 8 – St Remy De Provence/Aix En Provence/Nice
An hour’s drive this morning takes you to Aix en Provence. Your orientation will reveal that Aix is a vibrant student city abundant in elegant 19th century architecture. See Place de la Rotonde and the Cours Mirabeau’s steaming warm water fountains, along with wonderful shops and boutiques, where you can discover the secrets of the Calisson, followed by free time to experience the market, abundant with produce, where the locals do all of their shopping.

Day 9 – Nice/Monaco
This morning, join a local guide for a walking tour through the markets in the Cours Saleya, and learn about the local delicacies, such as sheep’s cheese, `socca’ and `mesclun’. You can sample the local cheeses and wines being sold by the vendors and practice the French you have learned while on the tour. This afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive along the coast before crossing the border to the unsold Principality of Monaco, where you will see the Palace of the ruling Grimaldi family and the Cathedral where both Princess Grace and Prince Rainier are buried. Return to Nice with time to freshen up for your Farewell Dinner.

Day 10 – Depart Nice
This morning after breakfast it's 'au revoir' to your fellow Food Network guests as your ‘Flavors of France’ tour comes to an end.

Touring Date	Land Only	Land + Air	Single (Land Only)	Single (Land + Air)
5/31/2012 - 6/9/2012	$3,399
6/14/2012 - 6/23/2012	$3,399
9/6/2012 - 9/15/2012	$3,399
9/20/2012 - 9/29/2012	$3,399
Note: Departures appearing above in green are guaranteed to operate by the tour operator.
Airfare Disclaimer A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link. Documents TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

Let Food Network be your guide throughout France, where you'll see the essential sights, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre, one of Rachael Ray's "must sees," along with the best farmers' markets and bakeries one can find, on an 8-night guided tour operated by Trafalgar exclusively for us.

We will take you to Food Network finds, such as a bakery visited by Giada De Laurentiis and Ina Garten, famous for their delicious macaroons. We'll visit authentic markets and restaurants around France, hand-picked by the culinary professionals in Food Network Kitchens. While in the South of France, enjoy a hands-on cooking class, where you'll learn how to prepare traditional foods from Nice, along with a wine tasting at a renowned French vineyard, and multiple other unique opportunities that only Food Network can provide. This trip is jam-packed with culinary highlights: it's the ultimate pairing of cuisine and culture. We hope you'll join for this excursion!

Pricing (Land Only)
$ 3,399 per person, double occupancy
$ 4,399 per person, single occupancy
$ 3,310 per person, third guest in room
$ 1,369 per child sharing with two adults, maximum 1 child per room, 14 years & under

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be traveling with a reliable company?

Most certainly. Food Network guided tours are operated by Trafalgar Tours, one of the world's leading tour operators. For more than 60 years, Trafalgar has been delivering perfectly-planned guided vacations to travelers worldwide and because of this expertise, Trafalgar has been exclusively selected for the Food Network tours.

How many people are on tour with me?

There will be a maximum of 49 Food Network Fans on our tours.

Will I have time on my own?

Absolutely. Food Network Travel has designed each itinerary with the perfect balance between scheduled sightseeing to iconic destinations, unique excursions and free time to explore on your own.

Will the coach be modern and comfortable?

Rest assured that you will ride in comfort, as we use the finest fleet of air-conditioned luxury motor coaches, all with reclining seats from Mercedes, Setra, Volvo and Fiat in Europe and Prevost in the U.S.

What are the Tour Directors like?

Our Food Network Travel Directors come from a variety of backgrounds and include former teachers and lecturers who all share the same passion for travel. They have a minimum of five years experience as Tour Directors behind them, and have all been thoroughly trained, making them the best of the world's elite travel professionals.

Food Network Travel Directors

Sightseeing is fun but it's our Food Network Travel Directors that really bring a destination to life. Their local knowledge and unfailing friendliness provide you with a personalized "concierge" service which ensures you get the very best out of every single day. They are experienced travelers, learned historians and culture buffs. Through their in-depth expertise, you'll discover the history and be immersed in the cultures of the places you visit.
Your Food Network Travel Directors can help interpret, show you how to get good value while shopping and how to spot a fake from the real deal. They make things smoother, more interesting and ultimately more enjoyable. They are your friend in an unfamiliar place.
We also use expert local guides to further enhance your sightseeing experience. When you are traveling on your own it's all too easy to pass through a place without touching the sides. That's why our expert local guides are so invaluable — they tell the lesser-known tales, relate the more curious stories, recall the most obscure events and reveal the best guarded secrets to ensure every moment is full of discovery and brimming with surprises.

What are "A la Carte Experiences" and when do I purchase them?

We carefully plan each itinerary to include visits to the must-see sites, a great deal of excursions, hidden treasures and other special events. And in your free time, you have the flexibility to customize your vacation with other special events and optional excursions – extra side trips offered to augment the local experience of a destination, like hot air ballooning in Napa, or a gondola ride along the Grand Canal in Venice, complete with champagne and music. These are available to buy at the start of the tour through your Food Network Travel Directors. A la Carte Experiences do not require advance booking and will be made available. Payments can be by credit card, cash (local currency) or traveler's cheques. We advise you to plan your budget in advance and allocate funds for these memorable events.

Can I use my electrical appliances?

Electrical currents vary on the continent of Europe. Some newer appliances have dual voltage, but if not, we suggest you carry a converter for your electric shaver, travelling iron and other small appliances to prevent damage. Additionally, plugs/outlets differ everywhere, so you'll need a universal electrical travel adaptor in order to use your appliance.

How can I keep in touch with family and friends?

Almost all hotels will add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you make from your room. This charge can be high, especially for international calls. It is always cheaper to use public telephones (pay phones) or an international calling card such as the eKit Global Phone card.

Can I have laundry done?

Most hotels do offer laundry service, and in some cities Laundromats are also available. However, it is a good idea to try and pack enough clothing without having to do laundry, as it can sometimes be costly and/or inconvenient.

What if I become ill on tour and am unable to continue?

Your Food Network Travel Director will assist with a doctor's visit or hospitalization. Food Network Travel land vacations has a dedicated Customer Care Department through Trafalgar, who will contact you to offer assistance and advice, coordinate with your travel insurance company and keep in touch until you rejoin the tour or return home. This service is included in the cost of your tour but is not a replacement for travel insurance.

What if I arrive late and miss a feature on the tour?

We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from parts of a tour, including but not limited to, missed meals or sightseeing.

Can I drink the water in the countries I will visit on my tour?

Yes, the water in France and Italy is potable.

Is smoking allowed on the coach?

There is a no smoking policy whilst on board the coach. However, we make plenty of comfort stops, allowing you ample opportunity to smoke if you wish, stretch your legs, take a scenic snapshot or enjoy a cup of coffee.

What is the single supplement?

The single supplement is the price that is offered to those who would like to stay in a room on their own.

Are airport transfers included?

Group transfers with scheduled departure times are included for Italy and France Guided Vacations. You have the option to book a private transfer that departs when you wish, for an additional cost.
Airport transfers to and from San Francisco International Airport on arrival and departure tour days are included for Northern California Guided Vacation. Private transfers are not available for booking through Trafalgar.
Do I need Travel Insurance?

Food Network Travel strongly recommends that all guests have an insurance policy to ensure your peace of mind before and while traveling. It's important that you protect yourself in case of trip cancellation/interruption for any reason, travel/baggage delay or loss of baggage and medical expenses. You can purchase travel insurance through Food Network Travel. Enjoy comprehensive coverage during your vacation with Trafalgar's Travel Protection Plan, designed exclusively for you to ensure your protection in the event that an unforeseen incident occurs, or your plans need to change, for any reason.

Why isn't my existing medical insurance enough coverage?

Check with your primary care insurer but most insurance companies will not cover accidents overseas or out of the area and usually claims will only be met up to a stated limit. Travel insurance will cover balances up to a much higher amount. In addition, you will receive cover for travel costs, accommodations and assistance.

Will I need a passport?

Passports are required when travelling outside of the USA. Your passport should be valid for six months beyond the conclusion of your trip.

Will I need a visa?

You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your tour. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your tour. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks prior to your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult your Food Network Travel Specialist, and local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting, well in advance to determine which visas you require and how to obtain them.

What is Express Check-In?

Express Check-In is an online check-in facility that allows you to provide all your essential details and preferences to Food Network Travel, prior to your departure, so that we can better serve your needs. Express Check-In is available to anyone who books a Food Network Travel Land Tour and pays a deposit on their booking. Express Check-In must be completed at least 15 days prior to your tour departure date and takes only approximately 10 minutes to complete.

When will I receive my travel documents?

Food Network Travel document wallets containing your travel documents are usually sent 21 days prior to your tour departure.

Can I request special dietary meals?

The meals on tour will provide you with a balanced diet and are based on local foods and menus. We can accommodate guests who prefer a vegetarian diet and can assist with diabetic, gluten free and other medically recommended diets. Please notify your Food Network Travel Specialist of any dietary requirements at time of booking. We regret that we are unable to supply meals in accordance with strict religious requirements.

How much luggage can I bring?

Due to limited space on the motor coach, you are requested to bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 30in. x 18in. x 10in. and weight not exceeding 50 lbs. You may also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescope handles.

Is baggage handling provided?

Yes, baggage handling is provided at no extra charge. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.

How do I change my currency?

Currency can be exchanged at airports or banks. Most bank machines (ATMs) throughout Europe and many parts of the world accept debit cards.

Are tips included?

Included: Gratuities are included for services provided while on the tour for restaurant staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels.
The recommended amounts gratuity amounts are as follows: Food Network Travel Directors $5 per day, Drivers $3 per day and Local Guides $1 per day. For Europe the rates are 4 Euros for Tour Director, 2.50 Euros for Drivers and 1 Euro for Local Guides.

What type of outfits do I pack and will I need formal attire?

This will depend on your personal preferences, where you are travelling, and on the time of year. It is advisable to bring at least one "smart" outfit for special evenings or highlight dinners. Please note that some churches/places of worship require covered shoulders and in some cases, knee length shorts/skirts. Items that are casual and lightweight, requiring little or no ironing are recommended.

What type of weather can I expect?

Weather varies in different parts of the world; therefore always check the weather forecast before travel. This will also help you determine what to bring with you. For local weather conditions go to weather.com

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