Epicurean

July 7-19, 2027

Experience the magic of France with an unforgettable adventure through Provence, Lyon, and Normandy, where flavor, landscape, and history come together in a journey you'll never forget.

Wander through the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence, where fields of lavender stretch toward the horizon and their sweet fragrance lingers in the warm air. Lose yourself in lively local markets bursting with color, hunt for prized truffles in fragrant forests, and roll up your sleeves in a hands-on cooking class where regional dishes come to life.

Climb the winding lanes of the Luberon's hilltop villages, where honey-colored stone glows in the afternoon light and every turn opens onto sweeping valley views. Feel the timeless rhythm of Provençal life as you stroll past sun-baked squares and quiet fountains, each corner whispering tales of tradition and beauty.

Savor the rich flavors of Lyon, long crowned the gastronomic capital of France. Stroll the elegant streets of the Presqu'île, discover local treasures on a guided food tour, then drift along the Saône on a leisurely river cruise as the city glides gently past, its landmarks shimmering on the water.

Stand in awe before Mont Saint-Michel, rising like a vision from its vast tidal bay, its medieval spires reaching toward the sky. Taste the freshest oysters by the sea in Cancale, and let the mellow warmth of a Calvados tasting reveal the soul of Normandy, where land and sea meet in perfect harmony.

Here, history and beauty intertwine effortlessly, weaving a tapestry of romance and wonder from the vineyards of the south to the shores of the north—a journey you'll never want to end.

July 7:
Arrival in provence & free time to explore

• Arrival in Provence
• Check into hotel
• Free time to explore

Welcome to Provence!

Upon arrival, a private driver will meet you at the airport and whisk you away to your accommodation for the next couple of days.

Get ready to savor the flavors of Provence as we explore a variety of local specialties, from artisanal cheeses and fresh-baked breads to plump olives and regional delicacies. This gastronomic experience will likely leave us full and satisfied!

The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy as you wish. Take this free time to wander the sun-warmed streets, linger at a lively café, or soak up the easy charm of Provençal life as the day softens into evening. Provence has a way of enchanting you at every turn, offering endless little moments of discovery and delight.

Tucked into the heart of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Hôtel Le Saint-Rémy welcomes you as a 5-star boutique retreat where calm and elegance set the tone from the moment you arrive. With just 31 rooms and suites, the atmosphere feels wonderfully intimate — each space thoughtfully designed with natural materials and warm, earthy colors drawn straight from the Provençal landscape. It's the kind of place that invites you to slow down and settle in, while its central location makes it the perfect base for wandering the village's sun-dappled streets, browsing local markets, and setting off to explore the wider region.

Savor authentic Southern cuisine at Lou Patio, where the flavors of Provence shine in a warm, elegant setting, then head up to Achille's Bar for creative tapas and cocktails on the rooftop, taking in sweeping views of the Alpilles as the evening unfolds. Between adventures, the on-site spa offers tailor-made Sothys treatments — soothing massages and restorative body and facial rituals designed to help you unwind completely.

July 8: Châteauneuf-du-Pape & Rhône Valley

• Full-day tour of Châteauneuf-du-pape & Rhône valley
• Châteauneuf-du-pape
• Tastings
• Rhône valley

This refined full-day private wine tour carries you through the Southern Rhône Valley, one of France's most celebrated wine regions, at a wonderfully relaxed pace. Over eight hours, a knowledgeable English-speaking driver guides you from your Provence accommodation into a landscape shaped by centuries of winemaking. At the heart of it lies Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a village steeped in papal history dating back to the 14th century. Its medieval charm and unique terroir of rounded pebbles, which soak up the sun by day and warm the vines by night, give the region's prestigious appellations their distinct depth and character.

The day settles into the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where you'll enjoy tastings at estates chosen for their quality and hospitality. Depending on availability, stops may include Les Caves Saint Charles for an engaging introduction to the appellation, or historic domains like Château La Nerthe and Domaine de Beaurenard, where tradition and modern winemaking coexist beautifully. Here you'll sample bold, complex reds and learn how soil, sun, and generations of expertise come together in each glass, all within elegant vineyard settings that reveal the soul of the region.

The experience continues in the neighboring appellations of Gigondas and Vacqueyras, celebrated for their expressive Grenache-based wines and dramatic vineyard scenery at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail. These tastings deepen your understanding of the Rhône Valley's remarkable diversity, from powerful reds to refined, layered blends. As the day winds down, your driver returns you comfortably to your Provence accommodation, leaving you with a richer appreciation for the flavors, landscapes, and history that make this corner of France so unforgettable.

July 9: Truffle hunting

6pm-9pm: Truffle Hunting Experience

• Free morning to spend at leisure
• Truffle hunting
• Tasting

This morning is free to spend at leisure, wander around in the area and soak up all the beauty around you.

In the afternoon a private transfer will pick you up and take you to your truffle hunting experience

Tucked into the sun-warmed foothills of the Luberon near Cadenet, this truffle hunting experience opens a door into one of Provence's most treasured culinary traditions. The adventure begins in the forest, where a professional truffle hunter and a specially trained dog lead the way through the trees in search of the region's famous "black gold." Watching the dog work is a highlight in itself, its excitement building the moment it catches the scent of a truffle hidden beneath the soil. Every discovery feels like a small triumph, unearthed from the quiet earth of a landscape shaped by centuries of Provençal life.

Beyond the thrill of the hunt, the excursion offers a deeper look into the world of truffles. The guide shares insights into truffle cultivation, colorful anecdotes rooted in local history, and practical tips for cleaning, storing, and cooking these prized fungi to bring out their delicate aromas. Guests also learn how to tell a true Provençal Tuber melanosporum from lesser varieties, gaining an appreciation for what makes the local truffle so special. The experience closes with a refined tasting moment: fresh truffle hors d'oeuvres paired with Champagne, followed by a selection of organic olive oil and truffle oil straight from the farm. It is a sensory finale that captures the flavors, fragrance, and terroir that define this remarkable corner of Provence.

july 10:
Provencal market and cooking class

• Provencal Market
• Cooking class
• Lunch paired with local wine

The day begins in the heart of a lively Provençal market, where the colors, aromas, and energy of the region come alive at every stall. Wander past baskets of ripe vegetables, bottles of golden olive oil, bunches of fragrant herbs, and an array of artisanal specialties that capture the true flavor of Provence. Meet the local producers who grow and craft these treasures, hear about their work, and sample fresh products straight from the source. It is an authentic introduction to the seasonal ingredients and time-honored traditions that make Provençal cuisine so beloved.

From the market, the experience continues into the peaceful Provençal countryside for a hands-on cooking class set in a charming, welcoming environment. Guided by a knowledgeable English-speaking French chef, guests learn to prepare regional dishes while enjoying captivating stories about local customs, history, and the culinary heritage passed down through generations. The day comes to a close with a relaxed 3-course lunch paired with carefully selected local wine, savored in a warm and convivial atmosphere. It is an unforgettable celebration of flavor, sharing, and the timeless art of living well in Provence.

After this experience your driver will take you back and the rest of the afternoon and evening are free to spend at your leisure.

July 11:
luberon villages

• Luberon Villages full day tour
• Gordes
• Abbaye Notre-Dame
• Roussilion
• Menerbes
• Lacoste

This full-day private tour winds through the heart of the Luberon, one of Provence's most enchanting corners. Over eight unhurried hours, travelers explore a handful of hilltop villages carefully chosen to match their pace, curiosity, and interests. A knowledgeable English-speaking driver guides the way in a comfortable Mercedes vehicle, sharing local insight and pausing wherever the views call for a photo. Because the itinerary bends to each traveler's wishes, no two journeys feel quite the same. The result is a relaxed, immersive day surrounded by rolling landscapes, sun-drenched vineyards, and the timeless charm that defines this celebrated region.

Among the day's highlights is Gordes, dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop and famous for its sweeping panoramas, dry-stone houses, and winding cobblestone streets. Just beyond lies the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a serene 12th-century abbey framed by rows of lavender that turn vivid purple in summer. The tour may also lead to Roussillon, instantly recognizable for its bold ochre cliffs and streets washed in warm reds, oranges, and golden yellows. Wandering past its boutiques and cafés, visitors feel the glow of a village painted by the earth itself, where every corner offers a fresh burst of color and character.

Depending on interests and time, the journey can also include Ménerbes and Lacoste, two villages steeped in history, with refined Provençal charm, sweeping valley views, and medieval streets that feel like an open-air museum. Bonnieux rewards travelers with its elevated church and panoramas over the vineyards below, while Lourmarin invites a slower pace with its lively café culture, art-filled lanes, and literary heritage once cherished by Albert Camus. As the light softens over the hills, the private driver escorts travelers comfortably back to their accommodation, leaving them with lasting memories of the Luberon's quiet beauty and enduring spirit.

*Lunch and entrance tickets to any monuments/sites are not included.

July 12:
Transfer to Lyon and walking tour

• Check out of hotel
• Private transfer to Provence Train Station
• Train from Provence to Lyon
• Private transfer to Lyon Hotel.
• Walking tour of Fourviere and Old Lyon

This morning, after breakfast you will check out of your hotel and look back on your stay and experiences in Provence. The next part of this trip is taking you to Lyon. Your private driver will meet you at the hotel and take you to the Train Station. From here you can sit back and relax in your first class seats on the train to Lyon. Once arrived in Lyon, your private driver will meet you at the train station and whisk you away to your hotel.

Step into the layered history of Lyon on this three-hour private walking tour of Fourvière and Vieux-Lyon, led by a licensed guide who brings every stone to life. The journey climbs to the hilltop Fourvière Basilica, where dazzling mosaics and sweeping views stretch across the city and beyond. Nearby, the ancient Roman amphitheaters reveal Lyon's origins as a thriving capital of Roman Gaul. Descending into Vieux-Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll wander cobblestone streets lined with elegant Renaissance façades and pastel courtyards. Your guide leads you through the hidden traboules, secret passageways once used by silk merchants, sharing stories that reveal the soul of the old city. Rich in history, charm, and expert storytelling, this unhurried walk is perfect for history lovers and curious travelers alike. Ready to explore the heart of Lyon? Reserve your private tour today.

blub about hotel

July 13:
Wine tour

• 12 hour Wine Tour
• Visits to some of the most respected wine houses
• Wine tastings
• Côte de Beaune
• Château du Clos Vougeot

This private full-day journey carries you from Lyon into the heart of Burgundy, one of the most celebrated wine regions on earth. As the vineyards roll past the window, a knowledgeable English-speaking driver shares what makes Burgundy's terroir so exceptional, from the soil and climate to the sun exposure and grape varieties that give each wine its distinct personality. Along the way, travelers learn the region's famous classification system, from Premier Cru to the prized Grand Crus. The drive leads to Beaune, the charming capital of Burgundy, where the storied Hospices and historic streets set the tone for a day steeped in tradition and flavor.

The experience deepens with visits to some of Burgundy's most respected wine houses. First comes Domaine Drouhin, a family estate that has passed its passion down through four generations over 140 years. Here, tastings reveal the balance and character of wines spanning Chablis, Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, and Côte Châlonnaise. A relaxed lunch follows at a hand-picked restaurant in Meursault, offering a moment to savor regional cuisine before the afternoon continues. Next is Maison Champy, founded in 1720 and recognized as the oldest wine trading house in Beaune, a place where centuries of craft and heritage still shape every bottle.

The day reaches its high point at Château du Clos Vougeot, the most famous wine castle in Burgundy. Built by Cistercian monks in the 12th century and completed in pure Renaissance style, this historic monument stands proudly at the heart of the Grands Crus route. Its walls tell the story of Burgundy's winemaking legacy, drawing lovers of history, architecture, and fine wine alike. After this unforgettable finale, the private driver returns travelers comfortably to Lyon, closing a memorable day filled with remarkable wines and timeless beauty.

July 14:
lyon tour

• Full-day 9 hour tour of Lyon
• Lyon's Elegant City Centre
• Food tastings along the way
• Sâone River Cruise

This private nine-hour journey begins in the heart of Lyon, on the elegant peninsula known as the Presqu'île. Stretching gracefully between the Rhône and the Saône, this striking stretch of land forms the vibrant core of the city. Grand squares open onto sweeping façades, stately buildings line the boulevards, and the honey-colored stone glows warmly in the changing light. A knowledgeable guide leads the way through this refined district, weaving stories of Lyon's rich past into every stroll. Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest public squares, anchors the area, while nearby streets reveal a blend of Renaissance charm and neoclassical splendor. The Presqu'île carries a distinct sense of occasion, where history, architecture, and daily life come together in effortless harmony.

The experience turns delicious as the tour explores Lyon's celebrated food scene, fitting for a city long crowned the gastronomic capital of France. Tucked among the elegant streets, traditional bouchons and artisan shops offer a taste of the region's culinary soul. Sample local specialties passed down through generations, from silky pâtés and cured charcuterie to praline-studded sweets and creamy regional cheeses. Each stop reveals a new flavor and a fresh story, guided by the expertise of a host who knows the city's tables intimately. This is more than a meal; it is an invitation into a living tradition, where every bite reflects the pride and craftsmanship that have made Lyon a magnet for food lovers across the world.

As the day mellows, the journey drifts toward the water for a scenic Saône River Cruise, a serene and memorable finale. From the deck, Lyon unfolds in a whole new light, its landmarks reflected in the gentle current. Historic bridges arch overhead, pastel façades line the banks, and the hills of Fourvière rise in the distance, crowned by the gleaming basilica. The pace slows, the city glides past, and the rhythm of the river brings a soothing sense of calm after a day of discovery. It is the perfect close to a rich and varied experience, leaving travelers with lasting memories of Lyon's beauty, flavor, and timeless charm.

July 15:
Transfer to normandy

• Check out of hotel
• Private transfer to the train station
• Train to Paris
• Private transfer
• Train to Normandy
• Check into hotel

Today is a full travel day, so start with a relaxing breakfast and take your time getting ready for the journey to Normandy. Once everyone is set, your private driver will collect you and bring you to the train station in Lyon. Settle into your first-class seats and let the French countryside roll gently past your window as the train carries you north toward Paris.

Upon arriving in Paris, a private driver will be waiting to whisk you between stations, handling the transfer so you can move through the city with ease. From there, it's time for the final leg of the day. Board your train to Normandy, sit back, and watch the landscape shift as you draw closer to your next destination.

Set along the banks of the Rhône at 20 quai Jules Courmont, the InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu brings new life to one of the city's most storied landmarks. Housed within the magnificent Hôtel-Dieu building and reimagined by celebrated designer Jean-Philippe Nuel, this luxury address weaves centuries of history into a setting of refined comfort. Its 144 rooms and suites frame captivating views of the Rhône River, the hilltop Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the graceful rooftops of Lyon, making every stay feel like a private window onto the city's soul.

Beyond the elegant guest rooms, the hotel invites discovery at every turn. Restaurant Epona, guided by Chef Mathieu Charrois, celebrates the flavors of the local terroir with dishes that honor Lyon's proud culinary heritage. At the heart of the property, Le Dôme bar draws guests beneath a soaring 32-metre cupola for creative cocktails, light bites, and unforgettable moments. For gatherings and celebrations, L'Académie offers one of the largest conference centers in the city, blending grand proportions with modern versatility. Together, these spaces make the InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu a destination where timeless architecture and thoughtful hospitality meet.

July 16:
Calvados

• Free morning with exploration or relaxing
• Calvados estates tour
• Tasting with cheese

A free morning offers endless possibilities for exploration and relaxation.

Tucked into the rolling orchards of the Pays d'Auge, Domaine Pierre Huet welcomes travelers into one of Normandy's most storied Calvados estates. A guided tour leads through a world where tradition, quality, and quiet craftsmanship shape every step. Watch as the slow art of transforming humble apples into golden Calvados unfolds before your eyes. The press and the wood-fired stills draw wonder from every visitor, while the cellars reveal rows of century-old barrels resting in the dim light. Their subtle exhalations fill the air, carrying the deep, mellow aromas of spirits patiently aging over decades. Every corner of the estate tells a story of a family devoted to honoring the past while embracing thoughtful innovation.

The experience reaches its warm finale with a tasting that celebrates the true richness of the Pays d'Auge. Sip and compare the estate's finest Calvados, crisp ciders, and smooth Pommeau, each one a reflection of the terroir and generations of expertise. To round out the visit, a Norman snack brings the flavors of the region to the table, pairing these treasures with local specialties and AOC cheeses of Normandy. It is a relaxed, convivial moment to savor the harmony between apple, spirit, and cheese.

July 17:
Mont saint michel and Cancale

• Full day tour of Mont Saint Michel and Cancale
• Mont Saint Michel
• Abbey
• Cancale

The day begins with one of France's most breathtaking sights: Mont Saint Michel rising like a vision from the sea. Perched on a rocky island where Normandy meets Brittany, this legendary abbey seems to float above its vast tidal bay, its silhouette shifting with the light and the tides. Travelers approach across the causeway as the medieval spires grow taller against the sky, drawn into a place that has captivated pilgrims and wanderers for over a thousand years. Stepping through the ancient gates, visitors find narrow cobblestone streets winding upward past stone houses, tucked-away shops, and quiet corners that echo with centuries of history. The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else—part fortress, part sanctuary, and wholly unforgettable.

Climbing higher, the path leads to the crowning glory of the island: the Abbey itself. This soaring Gothic masterpiece has watched over the bay since the Middle Ages, and its cloisters, refectory, and grand halls reveal the extraordinary skill and devotion of the monks who built it. From the ramparts, sweeping views stretch across the shimmering sands and shifting waters, where the tides move faster than anywhere in Europe. Wandering the village below, travelers can sense the layers of time in every archway and worn stone step. Every turn offers a new perspective, whether it's a hidden garden, a quiet chapel, or a sudden glimpse of the endless bay beyond the walls.

The journey then turns toward the sea, arriving in Cancale, a charming Breton fishing village set along the sparkling Emerald Coast. Known throughout France for its celebrated oysters, this lively harbor town invites travelers to slow down and savor the flavors of the coast. Fresh oysters, plucked straight from the beds visible at low tide, are best enjoyed by the water with sweeping views over the bay of Mont Saint Michel in the distance. Colorful boats bob in the harbor, seaside cafés buzz with easy conversation, and the salty breeze carries the unmistakable spirit of Brittany. After the soaring grandeur of the abbey and the quiet drama of the tidal bay, Cancale offers a warm, down-to-earth finale—a place where the sea sets the pace and every moment feels like an invitation to linger a little longer.

*Lunch is not included and has to be paid onsite

July 18:
Transfer to paris

• Check out of hotel
• Transfer to Paris
• Optional tours

After breakfast your private driver will meet you at your hotel and take you to Paris. Optional 3 hour stop at Giverny.

Once arrived in your hotel in Paris, you can spend the rest of the afternoon exploring on your own.
Optional tours here

Optional dinner here as well.

info

July 19:
Depart for Home

• Check out of the hotel
• Private transfer to CDG airport.
• Flights back to the US

On departure day, it is time to bid farewell to the sun-drenched landscapes of France and look back on a journey filled with rich memories. Over a final French breakfast, with a warm croissant and a strong coffee, the days come flooding back: the thrill of truffle hunting in the forests of Provence, the color and energy of local food tours, and hands-on cooking classes where regional dishes came to life. There were unforgettable wine tastings in Burgundy and beyond, the quiet charm of the Luberon's perched villages, and the elegant streets of Lyon's Presqu'île, followed by a peaceful cruise along the Saône. In Normandy, the sight of Mont Saint-Michel rising from its tidal bay, the fresh oysters of Cancale by the sea, and the mellow warmth of a Calvados tasting all left their mark.

As the journey comes to a close, it's these moments—the flavors, the views, the feeling of wandering through beauty and history—that travel home in the heart. France has a way of staying with you, and its story becomes part of your own, waiting to be revisited in memory or, one day, in person again.

TRAVEL DETAILS

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(PLEASE SUBMIT ONE REGISTRATION FORM PER HOUSEHOLD)

Pricing details

All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages.. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable you have a criminal background; you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

Base package price per person:

$TBD

INCLUDEd IN THE QUOTE

• Hotel Accommodations

  • Hotel de Varenne

• Tours included in the daily itinerary above

• Private transfers included in the daily itinerary above

• Most taxes and fees

  • Service fees and commissions (NON-REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

• All International and Domestic flights

• Ground transportation not listed in the itinerary

• Add-On Experiences

• Food and beverages not included in the itinerary above

• Gratuities

• Incidental charges 

• Local Tax

• 4% processing fee per payment (only if paying w/credit card)

• Optional Travel Insurance

Registration

A completed registration form is required to move forward with this booking.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 90 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions, Planning Fees and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 90 days before departure. Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor."

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

F.A.Q.

France Travel FAQs

Helpful Information for Your Journey in France

Do I need a visa for france?

For United States travelers, a visa is not required for short visits to France for tourism or business. U.S. citizens with a valid passport can generally stay in France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. Passport validity and entry requirements do still apply, so make sure your passport is valid for more than 6 months after your travel date.

What currency is used?

The currency used in France is the euro (€), which is the official currency of the country and of much of the European Union. Banknotes come in different denominations, and coins range from 1 cent to 2 euros. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout France, though it can still be useful to carry a small amount of cash for cafés, markets, or small everyday purchases.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

Yes, tap water in France is safe to drink and is carefully monitored to meet strict health and quality standards. It is widely available throughout the city, including at restaurants and public fountains, making it a convenient and eco-friendly option for travelers. While some visitors may notice a slightly different taste due to mineral content, it is perfectly suitable for drinking.

What will the weather be like in FRANCE in JULY

France offers pleasant weather throughout much of the year, making it a wonderful destination whatever the season. Keep in mind that conditions vary by region and time of year: the south enjoys warm, sunny days for longer stretches, while northern and central areas tend to feel milder and greener. During the most popular travel months, daytime temperatures are often comfortable, with averages generally ranging from the upper teens to the low-to-mid twenties Celsius. Evenings can feel cooler, so a light jacket comes in handy. Longer daylight hours and blooming countryside add to the charm, though occasional rain showers are still possible, which makes a small umbrella a smart thing to pack.

Average temperatures in July are:

• Morning: 55–60°F (13–16°C)

• Afternoon: 71–83°F (22–28°C)

How much walking is involved?

Exploring Normandy, Lyon, and Provence often involves a fair amount of walking, as many of the most beautiful villages, landmarks, and markets in these regions are best experienced on foot. Even when traveling by car or arranged transport, you should expect to walk quite a bit: up the winding lanes of the Luberon's hilltop villages, across the elegant squares and streets of Lyon's Presqu'île, and over the steep cobblestone paths of Mont Saint-Michel. Coastal towns like Cancale invite unhurried strolls along the harbor, while Provence's lively markets and excursions, from truffle hunts to vineyard visits, keep you on your feet as you wander and discover.

Comfortable shoes are highly recommended, as a typical day of sightseeing can easily include several miles of walking, often on uneven surfaces, sloping streets, and centuries-old stone paths. Sturdy, broken-in footwear will help you stay comfortable and make the most of every stop, whether you're climbing to a village viewpoint, exploring an abbey, or browsing stalls at a bustling Provençal market.

Is tipping expected?

In France, tipping is appreciated but generally not expected. Service is usually included in restaurant bills, so locals often simply round up or leave a small extra amount for especially good service. For guides, drivers, and hotel staff, tips are seen as a thoughtful gesture rather than an obligation.

Suggested amounts:

• Restaurants: 5–10% for excellent service
  

What electrical outlets are used?

France uses Type C and Type E electrical outlets, with standard voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50HZ. Travelers from the United States will need both a plug adapter and for some devices a voltage converter if the item is not dual voltage. Most modern electronics like phone chargers, laptops, camera chargers are often dual voltage, but it is always smart to check the label before plugging them in.

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We found this to be a fastest, easiest, and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go into your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

• Mail the check

• Deposit directly at a local branch

Travel Insurance Options

Travel insurance offers invaluable peace of mind by protecting you from unexpected events that can disrupt your trip. It provides financial coverage for a range of situations, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost or delayed luggage, and unforeseen travel delays. With travel insurance, you can avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially in cases of medical emergencies abroad where healthcare costs can be high. Additionally, it ensures access to 24/7 assistance services, helping you navigate challenges like rebooking flights or finding medical care in unfamiliar destinations. Zone-Travel will be happy to provide you with options that best suits your needs and budget.