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France by EuroPanache

Mar 15, 2016

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EuroPanache opens doors to the extraordinary: behind the scenes experiences; private art and antique collections; members only clubs; exclusive wine estates; cooking with top chefs; exploration and discovery packages; and showcase villas, apartments and yachts. Let our award-winning team help you create the vacation of your dreams in Europe, North America and beyond.
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Page 1: France by EuroPanache
Page 2: France by EuroPanache

FRANCE IM075100085CST #2083450-50

©EuroPanache 2011

Illustration and Design by Marina Preston, www.marinapreston.com For more information, contact your favorite travel agent or visit our website, www.europanache.com

Page 3: France by EuroPanache

EuroPanache Opens Doors to the Extraordinary

EXPERIENCE SOME OF THE WORLD'S MOST SPECTACULAR AND EXOTIC DESTINATIONS. JOURNEY ALONE OR WITH A SMALL GROUP OF DISCERNING TRAVELLERS WHO SHARE YOUR INTERESTS.

Our themes include gourmet cooking, wine tasting, antiquing, art, fashion, spa and wellness, literature, culture andhistory, fine dining, photography and wilderness/nature. For these, we have contracted with leading chefs, sommeliers,fashion consultants, antiques experts, art historians and photographers. Featured destinations include Europe, Africa,Central America and Australia. Please check our website or with your local travel agent for our latest offerings.

EuroPanache guests travel in true luxury by helicopter, limousine, executive jet, first-class rail and deluxe minivans,dine in some of the world’s finest restaurants and stay in grand luxury at fabulous five-star boutique hotels, includingchâteaux, abbeys and manor houses.

Page 4: France by EuroPanache

From Our President and FounderFocusing on providing the highest service quality has been key to EuroPanache’s continued growth and success. In our fifth year, business has more than doubled and our company has expanded its offering to include exciting new

luxury themes and destinations. In France we have added exciting packages to Brittany and Corsica to complement ourexisting offering in Alsace, the Alpine region, Basque country, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Dordogne and thePérigord, Haute Provence, the Côte d’Azur, the Loire Valley, Normandy and Paris.

Both our Europe and America-based teams have expanded again this year. Let our global team of travel planners andguides show you what we can do!

Bob Preston, President

2 Introduction

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Contents

4 France On-Site Services 6 Testimonials 7 Luxury Mini Breaks 8 Alpine

10 Alsace Wine & Nature12 Biarritz14 Black Heritage16 Bordeaux & Cognac18 Bordeaux Wine & City20 Bordeaux Wine & Spa22 Burgundy Wine & Heritage24 Culinary 25 Champagne26 Côte d’Azur28 Dordogne30 Haute Provence32 Loire Wine & Châteaux34 Marie Antoinette36 Normandy38 Paris Fashion40 Paris Literary Break 41 Paris and L’Art du Parfum 42 Paris and French Antiques 43 Versailles44 Brittany46 Northern Corsica48 Southern Corsica 50 Booking Terms

Table of Contents 3

ALSACE

BURGUNDY

ALPINE

PROVENCE COTE D’AZUR

CORSICA

DORDOGNE—PERIGORD

BASQUE COUNTRY

BORDEAUX

COGNAC

BRITTANY

NORMANDYCHAMPAGNE

LOIRE

VERSAILLES

PARIS

••

•••

•• •

Page 6: France by EuroPanache

France Onsite ServicesEuroPanache operates an inbound receptive agency, with offices in Paris and Provence, that provides VIP ground services, hotel,apartment and villa reservations, privately guided day tours, helicopter trips, itineraries for children and families, shore excursionsand access to cultural and sporting events.

Our VIP events team can provide privileged, unequaled access to government and private institutions, privately owned townresidences and country châteaux of high-level individuals, private collectors and officials, internationally renowned champagne andwine estates, luxury institutions and exclusive private clubs.

Innovation, quality, and taste are the hallmarks of our programs, which are designed forindividuals, couples and small groups of up to 50 participants. Examples include: • Private visits and receptions with official hosts in renowned museums, embassies,government institutions, art galleries and luxury product institutions; • Visits and receptions in exclusive private residences and châteaux with theirdistinguished proprietors—collectors of the Arts—and renowned architects and artists; • Luncheons or dinners in exclusive, private clubs; such as the Cercle de l’UnionInteralliée, the Jockey Club, the Travellers Club and the Polo Club de Paris; • Private fashion shows and cocktail receptions in world-renowned fashion houses; • Private tours, champagne and wine-tasting ceremonies and luncheons at prestigiousestates with their hosts; • Gala evenings in world-renowned châteaux, museums and private mansions;• Hunting (small game, large game and chasse à courre) in private domains ofFrench nobility.

Our incentives department can organize events from one to seven days in casual orhighly sophisticated venues. Examples are: • Cultural programs for up to 100 participants; • Receptions for up to 800 participants; • Corporate or institutional events for up to 1,500 participants.

4 Onsite Services

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Onsite Services 5

Family Tours Adapted to KidsWe all know how boring tours can be for restless children and adolescents, which is why we havecreated this offering. Our educational and fun tours include games, treasure hunts and labyrinths! Examples include:•Reliving Marie Antoinette’s happiest time in Versailles; •Painting in the footsteps of Monet (Giverny) or Van Gogh (Auvers sur Oise) with an artist;•Discovering masterpieces of the Louvre with intrigue and clues;•Underground Paris—including the sewers, catacombs, Roman and Gallic vestiges;•Helicopter tour of Paris followed by the Air & Space Museum where the Concorde, Caravelleand European rockets can be visited;•Enacting Perrault’s tales (Puss in Boots, Tom Thumb, Sleeping Beauty) in a real château;•A half-day in the kid’s park, zoo or aquarium;•Cooking classes, chocolate creation or perfume making adapted for children.

Helicopter Excursions

We offer a number of outstanding private helicopterday trips for small private groups up to five passengers, including:

From Paris•Lunch at Chateau d’Esclimont and overflight of Chartres;•Lunch at Les Crayeres and Champagne Tour;•Lunch at the Abbey of Vaulx le Cernay;•Normandy — Honfleur, Trouville and Deauville;•Normandy beaches; •Versailles and Vaux le Vicomte;•Chateaux of the Loire Valley;•Vineyards of Burgundy;

Helicopter Tours From Nice/Cannes•Gourmet escapades to Monaco, St Tropez, Camargue, Haute Provence, Corsica

From Bordeaux•Atlantic Coast — La Rochelle and Ile de Re;•Biarritz and St Jean de Luz;•Vineyards of St Emilion, Medoc, Pessac Leognan.

Day Trips of Distinction and Shore Excursions

From Paris•Impressionists — (GIverny and Auvers-sur-Oise)•Chateau de Chantilly•Giverny and La Roche Guyon•Paris highlights•Vaux le Vicomte, Barbizon and Fontainebleau•Versailles

From Provence (including shore Excursions)•Western Riviera Tour•Eastern Riviera Tour•Wine and Truffles Tour•Villas & Corniches•Corniche d’Or, St Tropez and wine tasting•Panorama of the French Riviera•Provence Cooking and Nice City Tour•Antibes & St Paul de Vence•Monaco & Eze•Painters of the Riviera

From Bordeaux•Bordeaux City Tour•Arcachon and the Silver Coast•Wine Tours of Medoc, Pessac Leognan, Saint Emilion & Dordogne or Sauternes-Barzac

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Congratulations — our VIP client, Expert and President of a US Wine Company — a HIGHLY discerning and informedclient — liked the Alsace wine tour you arranged this summer. Dan Dixon, Rudi Steele Travel — Dallas

Your connections in France are amazing and booking with EuroPanache makes me a hero to my clients. Thanks for a jobwell done! Sandee Litwin, President, Litwin Travel— Los Angeles

What a wonderful fashion and culinary adventure! I still can’t believe all that EuroPanache was able to arrange during myshort visit to Paris! Anita C. — Seattle

I just want to pass on the positive feedback from our small group from Brisbane on their Paris trip in mid-April. In particular,they found the cooking school (in the home of a French chef) and the trip to Versailles fabulous. Jenny Gill, Harvey WorldTravel — Brisbane

Every detail was carefully arranged providing a first class experience at every stop. The Paris VIP Haute Couture tour —behind the scenes at Chanel, Hermes and Baccarat — was a once in a lifetime experience. Sharmagne T — Houston

EuroPananche provided an incredible vacation experience for me with excursions that provided an inciteful window intolocal culture of Dubai. I especially appreciated the VIP welcome at the airport. Glenn D. — New York

The Great Wall private gala dinner in Beijing was an ending to remember on our round-the-world trip. The private visit ofthe Ming Tombs with champagne cocktail was a nice touch. EuroPanache are outstanding people! Keith V — Los Angeles

Thank you EuroPanache for the top notch service provided for my clients' South of France Honeymoon. Your assistance inarranging VIP service at every turn made my job easier and my clients very happy. The Bentley rental, the private yachtcharter to St Tropez and the creative idea of arranging massages to provide a changing area for their special dinner in MonteCarlo are a few of the things that helped create a unforgettable honeymoon. As a luxury travel specialist I would nothesitate to use your services again. Diane Hoffman, Owner, Hoffman Travel — Denver

Thank you so much for the extraordinary trip you organized to Paris and Normandy for our VIP clients. They were so pleased— loved the VIP airport treatment, Raphael Suite, private yacht cruise, dinner at the Cercle Interalliee and wine tastings.Your guides are excellent. Jim Hughel, President, Town Place Travel — New Jersey

This is the second year in a row that I have traveled with EuroPanache. It will remain a highlight of all of my internationalvacations. Laura R — San Diego

Kudos to you all. Peter Carideo, President, CRC Travel — Chicago

For the latest feedback, please see the Press and Testimonials sections on our website www.europanache.com

Press Quotations

"A Black Book of enviable connections" — Virtuoso Life

“Des exklusivsten Reisebüros der Welt” — Focus Deutschland

"Things to Try before You Die" — Channel 9 (Australia)

"Des voyages hors norme" — Madame Figaro (France)

"Une Agence très spéciale" — Le Point (France)

Testimonials

6 Testimonials

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These short breaksfeature outstanding

venues and themes. Theycan be grouped together

or used to extend anexisting business trip or leisure vacation.

Luxury Mini Breaks

Alpine Alsace Wine & Nature Biarritz Black Heritage

Bordeaux & Cognac Bordeaux Wine & City Bordeaux Wine & Spa Burgundy Wine & Heritage Culinary

Champagne Côte d’Azur Dordogne Haute Provence Loire Wine & Châteaux

Marie Antoinette Normandy Paris Fashion Paris Literary Break Paris & L’Art du Parfum

Paris & French Antiques Versailles Brittany Northern Corsica Southern Corsica

Page 10: France by EuroPanache

The Alpine region of HauteSavoie is one of the most sce-nic in France. Stay in or nearthe charming town of Annecy,with its glorious mountainscenery, pristine lake, flower-laden bridges, old town andcanals. Enjoy a fabulous dinnerat an acclaimed Michelin star-rated restaurant.

Nearby lies Europe’s tallestalpine peak — the majesticMont Blanc. Visit the town ofChamonix and take some timefor an alpine stroll and a lunchof hearty fondue.

Wander the shores of LakeLeman or lake Bourget withtheir source spa towns of Evianand Aix-les-Bains, have lunchin the medieval village ofYvoire and enjoy a city tour anddinner in Geneva, famous forthe Calvinist Reformation andits current standing as secondseat of the United Nations.

8 Luxury Mini Breaks

INCLUDES• Private transfers from/to the Annecy TGV station

or Geneva Cointrin Airport• Three nights in a four-star hotel in or near Annecy• Gastronomic dinner with wine at a Michelin star-rated restaurant• Two full days of touring in a luxury sedan as described (lunches and dinner out-of-pocket)• Breakfast every day and all taxes and service fees

Alpine Break

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Luxury Mini Breaks 9

The Alpine region of Haute Savoie is one of the most scenic in France.

Day One. Transfer by private sedan from the Annecy TGVstation or Geneva airport to your hotel. Take the afternoonto enjoy the lovely town of Annecy, its pure lake, old city andcanals. Dine at one of the fine Michelin star-rated restau-rants along the lake.

Day Two. Your private driver-guide will meet you after break-fast for a full-day tour to Chamonix with the opportunity totake the Aiguille du Midi cable car up near the top of the MontBlanc. Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring some of specialties of theAlpine region — Fondue, Raclette or Tartiflette. Take a strolland enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Day Three. After breakfast, your driver-guide will take on afull-day tour to Lake Leman or Lake Bourget via the scenicroute des Grandes Alpes. Visit the charming spa towns ofEvian or Aix-les-Bains and have lunch (fresh lake perch rec-ommended) in the fascinating fortified town of Yvoire.After lunch, enjoy a tour of Geneva, with its ReformationWall, Old Town, UN area and beautiful lakefront and flow-ered clock. Enjoy dinner at one of the fine lake viewrestaurants.

Day Four. After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to theAnnecy TGV station or Geneva airport for your journey onward.

A L P I N E I T I N E R A R Y

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Alsace, which was formerly part ofGermany and has a distinctive flair,

is without any doubt one of themost dynamic and prettiest regions

of France. It has become a symbolof the transnational European econ-

omy and has developed privilegedpartnerships with the bordering

nations of Germany and Switzerland.Although modest in size, Alsace

offers an incredible variety of landscapesand climates contributing to the diversity

of the region. It provides countless possi-bilities thanks to its outstanding heritage,

famous wines and gastronomy whichattract gourmets from all over the world.

Its main city, Strasbourg, acts as a linkbetween countries at the heart of Europe,

and houses many institutions of theEuropean Union as well as an old town

nestled around the cathedral. This luxury three-day tour will intro-duce you to spectacular wine

roads dotted with vineyards,pretty villages and hamlets,

many of which are reminis-cent of tales from the

Brothers Grimm.

INCLUDES• Transfers from and to the Strasbourg TGV station or airport• Two nights in a luxury city hotel (Regent) or château property

(Château de l’Ile) with VIP welcome and amenities• Breakfast daily• Half-day walking and canal tour of old Strasbourg • Two days of private car and driver to discover the wine route and natural forest and mountain parks in the Vosges• Wine tastings at three estates

10 Luxury Mini Breaks

Alsace Wine & Nature

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Luxury Mini Breaks 11

Day One. STRASBOURG CITY TOURUpon arrival at the Strasbourg airport or TGV station, embark withyour personal chauffeur-guide to discover France’s most Europeancity. Transfer to your luxurious hotel and enjoy lunch at your conven-ience. After lunch, start the visit of Strasbourg’s pedestrian historicalcenter listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. During your walk-ing tour along the canals of this small city, be sure to stop at the tra-ditional pastry shop, “the Paradise of Gingerbreads”, dating from1643. End your visit with a wine tasting in one of the numerous winebars that the city has to offer. That evening, enjoy a gourmet dinnerat the two-Michelin star Crocodile restaurant or one of the manybrasseries specializing in Alsatian choucroutes.

Day Two. ALSATIAN VINEYARDS AND HERITAGEAfter breakfast, meet your driver-guide for a day-long tour along theroute des vins that will take you to the heart of Alsace’s wine country.Admire the numerous flower-laden villages along the route with theirquaint churches and town halls. The road runs through rolling countryand affords views of many hilltop castles. Alsace boasts Europe's high-est concentration of feudal properties — more than 400!

From Obernai, a small medieval town, you’ll reach the MontSainte Odile, one of the most popular sights in Alsace, known forspectacular views and pink cliffs rising out of the forest. The routethen meanders through very famous villages and small towns,including Kintzeim, Haut Keonigsbourg, Ribeauvillé, Séléstat,

Riquewihr — all surrounded by vineyards — Kaysersberg, formerlyan imperial city and Colmar, a charming town known for its LittleVenice district. It is also the home town of the sculptor FrédéricAugust Bartholdi who made the Statue of Liberty in New York. TheUnterlinden Museum in Colmar features the famous Isenheim Altar,a masterpiece in the field of religious art.

During this tour, several wine tastings will be organized for youin renowned cellars and estates. Discover the various types ofAlsatian wines, which are classified under three official designations:the Alsace AOC, the Alsace Grand Cru AOC, and the Crémantd’Alsace. Whereas other French regions call their wines by the nameof their terroirs, Alsatian wines bear the name of the grape varietiesused to produce them.

Day Three. FOREST AND MOUNTAIN NATURE TOURWith your driver-guide, explore some of Alsace's natural treasures.Offering breathtaking views, the Grand Ballon d’Alsace is the high-est point of the Vosges mountain range. Here, you can discoverattractive forested slopes with fir and beech trees, lakes, natural pas-tures and round-topped mountains called ballons. Enjoy a hike orstroll in the national park if you feel so inclined. Sample typical dish-es in one of the many charming farmhouse inns lining the Crest Roadfeaturing rustic mountain food and famous Munster cheese. In thelate afternoon, your driver-guide will take you to the StrasbourgTGV station or airport for your onward journey.

A L S A C E W I N E & N A T U R E I T I N E R A R Y

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Enjoy some of the most extraordi-nary beaches and high-mountainpasses that Southern Europe has tooffer. Nested in the PyreneesMountains and along the AtlanticOcean, the Basque country —Euskadi — covers seven provinces insouthwestern France and northeast-ern Spain.

During your stay in one of theregions top palaces, visit world-classvineyards, cascading waterfalls,emerald valleys, high-mountainpasses and the long stretches of finesand beaches. Stop in enchantingvillages rich in fine French architec-ture, taste internationally renownedBasque cuisine, visit theGuggenheim museum and archeo-logical treasures, enjoy traditionalBasque games like Pelote in quaintvillages, see historical monumentsand take part in the local festivities.

12 Luxury Mini Breaks

INCLUDES• Transfers from/to Biarritz train station or airport• 3 and a half days of tour with private car and driver/guide• 3 nights at the award-winning Hotel du Palais in Biarritz• Breakfast and taxes

Biarritz —Pays Basque

This region offers a varied, bucolic, andbreathtaking palette that will certainlymove you. The locals have their own lan-guage, cuisine and culture that remaindistinct to this day.

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Luxury Mini Breaks 13

Day One. BIARRITZ AND THE COASTTransfer from the Biarritz airport or train station to the Hotel du Palais, an impe-rial resort and spa Palace. It was Empress Eugenie’s favourite and has won manyawards for its Guérlain spa, which spans over five floors.

After lunch, your driver/guide will help you discover this trendy-chic townand the beauty of the Atlantic Coast. Stop at typical Basque villages such asGuethary and Saint Jean de Luz and discover the scenic road called the“Corniche Basque” that leads to the border of Spain.

Day Two. BASQUE REGION BACK COUNTRYAfter breakfast, enjoy a short drive from the coast to reach hillside villages suchas Sare and Ascain. Ainhoa is the best of all though and is voted one of France'sTop 50 prettiest villages. A stroll down its ancient high street will tell you why.La Rhune — the mythical Pyrenean peak overlooks the Basque Country andsomething of a legend in these parts.

Stop for a gourmet lunch in an authentic 17th century auberge. Afterlunch, visit the very richly decorated Villa Arnaga and its beautiful gardens.Pass through the vineyards of Irroulegy to reach the charming medieval villageof Saint Jean-Pied de Port. Renowned for its market and fast and furious Pelotematches, played bare-handed, with what looks like band-aids being the onlyprotection against injury.

Day Three. GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM AT BILBAO AND THE RIOJAHead to Northern Spain for the day first to visit the Guggenheim Museum,designed by North American architect Frank O. Gehry. It is a magnificentexample of the most groundbreaking architecture to have come out of the20th century and its collections offer a comprehensive overview of the visualarts of the 20th century. Enjoy lunch at the Museum before heading on a tourof the most spectacular cellars of the Rioja. Stop for a tasting at Ysios, one of

the more avant-garde wineries, commissioned by Spain’s greatest architect,Calatrava, to design the country’s first cutting-edge bodega. It sits across thehill from Marques de Riscal, whose owners decided to go one better and buildthe region’s first five-star hotel and spa and throw open their vaults to visitors forthe first time in their 150-year history. Continue on to the picturesque townsof Laguardia and then Elciego, where a hotel by Frank Gehry — a jumble of red,gold and silver titanium — is hoisted on stilts.

Day 4. BAYONNE TOUR OR FREE TIME TO ENJOY LOCAL SPORTS, THE BEACHES AND SPA

Today, we’d suggest a more leisurely pace. You can enjoy the fabulous spa atthe hotel, play a round of golf or swim and surf along the find sand beaches ofBiarritz. Or, if you prefer:•Embark on a half-day tour of Bayonne — where you’ll enjoy culture, ramparts,museums — plus tastings of the local salty ham & chocolate! This vastly under-rated city is the capital of the French Basque Country. It’s a great place for aday of culture and shopping!•Attend a Course Landaise, an ancient popular game of the Aquitaine Region,which has now become an official sport in France. All there is between Manand Beast in the race is skill, acrobatics, gymnastics and a rope. There are noweapons or red cloaks used on the animals and the cow does not die.•Attend a Pelote match. This game has been played since ancient times(Greeks, Romans, Aztecs...) in which players competed against one another.There are in fact 22 variants, depending on the bat (bare hand, the pala board,the chistera basket...), the type of ball, and the location of the game (openspace, covered fronton...). There are 60,000 players in France alone!

In the late afternoon, transfer to the Biarritz airport or train station for youronward journey.

B I A R R I T Z — P A Y S B A S Q U E I T I N E R A R Y

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Paris is known as the City of Lights and is the perfectsetting for romantic rendezvous, highfashion, and gourmet cooking. However,few people know that as early as the end ofthe 18th century, during the tumultuousperiod following the French Revolution upto today, many African-Americans came toFrance for more than fine cuisine and hautecouture dresses. They came seeking the onething denied to them in the United States:liberty, equality and brotherhood.

While many famous Black Americans suchas Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and ToniMorrison, among others, visited Paris, some ofthem took up exile during the 20th century.Josephine Baker, Sidney Bechet, RichardWright, James Baldwin, and Chester Himes, toname a few, have graced the city and the worldwith their talents and have left an indeliblemark that attracts lovers and freedom-seekersalike. Over the course of our journey, we willtalk to African-American writers and artists stillliving in Paris. We will dine and delight inenlightening discussions with people who knewsome of these famous people in order to get anauthentic taste of the African-Americanexperience in Paris. Following that, we will visitcharming cities and quaint villages in Provencewhere the likes of James Baldwin and NinaSimone lived and died, and Monaco, where

Josephine Baker lived for many years during times ofhardship thanks to her friend and admirer, Grace Kelly.

After visiting the areas where these men and womenlived and frequenting the cafes where they congregated,you will be changed forever. You will never forget yourvisit as France has not forgotten those who chose her asa home and safe haven.

INCLUDES• Two nights in a lovely château-hotel in central Paris (deluxe room or

junior suite accommodation)• One night in a luxury Relais & Châteaux hotel in Provence (deluxe room

or junior suite accommodation)• One night in a fabulous palace hotel in Nice (deluxe room or junior suite accommodation)• Breakfast (4 mornings)

• Gourmet multi-course dinners with wine (2 nights)• Walking tours of Paris' rich black heritage with English-speaking guide

(two half-days)• Chauffeur-guided tour of Nice, Provence back-country and Monaco with English-speaking guide (two days)• Monoclass flight from Paris to Nice• Limousine transfers to/from Paris airport, railway station or hotel

14 Luxury Mini Breaks

Black Heritage Break

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Luxury Mini Breaks 15

They came seeking the one thing denied to them in the United States: liberty, equality and brotherhood.

Day One. In the afternoon, we will start the Paris walkingtour in the areas where James Baldwin, Josephine Baker,Richard Wright, and Chester Himes once lived. We willalso visit several cafes. In the evening, you will have a timeto rest before going to dine in one of the famousrestaurants favored by many Black Americans.

Day Two. You will have the morning to rest up. In theafternoon, we will resume our walking tour by visiting areaswhere many jazz musicians, Josephine Baker, and othershave visited. Hear about NAACP co-founder W.E.B.Dubois' early visit to the 1900 Paris Exhibition and latermeetings with Black African leaders fighting colonial rule.Hear about the many former black American activists whosought refuge in Paris during the McCarthy era andinspiration during the civil rights struggles. In the evening,you will be free to discover Paris nightlife on your own.

Day Three. We will travel to the south of France to visit thescenic back-country mountain villages of Provence,including where James Baldwin held residence until hisdeath. That evening you'll enjoy a gastronomic meal in yourfine château-hotel.

Day Four. After a sumptuous breakfast, you will continueyour tour of the back-country to Monaco, where JosephineBaker lived. The last evening will be in a fabulous palacehotel near the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice,where Nina Simone lived.

Day Five. After breakfast, you'll make your way to the Niceairport for your flight home.

Optional night(s) in Nice after the break can be arranged, or you maycombine this with another Paris-region luxury break. We can also extendthis by one day to include the Châteaux Milandes (Dordogne), whereJosephine Baker lived with her “Rainbow Tribe.”

B L A C K H E R I T A G E I T I N E R A R Y

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This 3-day break offers two treasures of the South Westregion: wine and Cognac. Sojourn in a renaissance stylecastle conveniently situated between Cognac and

Bordeaux that is totally devotedto relaxation and well-being. -

From there you can enjoy thecharm of prestigious Saint Emilion

or Medoc Bordeaux vineyards aswell as the Cognac region, and the

secrets of distillation of the finest“French brandy”.

INCLUDES• Three days vehicle with English-speaking driver-guide• Two night’s accommodation at the Chateau de Mirambeau in a

Deluxe room or Junior suite• Buffet breakfast every day• Chateaux visits and tastings.• VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel

16 Luxury Mini Breaks

Bordeaux Wine & Cognac

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Luxury Mini Breaks 17

In Cognac and Jarnac you’ll discover the cellars of prestigious distillers and “les Paradis”, the secret of Cognac collections.

Day One. BORDEAUX—CHATEAU DE MIRAMBEAU Upon arrival in Bordeaux (late morning), you will be greeted byyour expert driver/guide for a 3 hour-tour of Bordeaux. From thevestiges of the Middle-Ages to the elegance of 18th centuryyou’ll discover the different golden ages of Bordeaux's history,dominated by the wine trade and various colonial influences.Lunch at your convenience in the old town of the city.

Next, you’ll head North to your fabulous Chateau-hotelwhere you can relax for the rest of the day. The chateau offersvarious activities on the spot: jogging and cycling tracks : a largepark, two swimming pools, a spa center, 2 tennis courts, tastingsessions and cooking classes.

Day Two. SAINT EMILION TOWN AND VINEYARDSDiscover Saint-Emilion, an enchanting, medieval town that standsproudly at the top of a hill overlooking the Dordogne valley, andbuilt in the shape of an amphitheatre. Saint Emilion is an incredi-ble open-air museum. The most surprising remains are withoutdoubt its underground monuments: galleries covering more than150 acres and the breathtaking monolithic church, dug out of solidlimestone. You will end your visit of the town with a wine tasting inone of its numerous cellars.

After luncheon, the afternoon will be devoted to the discoveryof Saint Emilion region’vineyards. During this wine tour, throughthe visit of Chateaux and tasting you’ll discover wines of excep-tion and the art of tasting.

Day Three. COGNAC REGION AND DISTILLERIESYour driver-guide will take you on a discovery of this superbregion whose reputation belongs both to its rich architecturalheritage and its famous brandy. In the historical towns ofCognac and Jarnac you’ll discover the cellars of such prestigiousdistillers as Hennessy, Otard, and Martell, Hine, or Courvoisierand “les Paradis”, the secret of Cognac collections. You’llmeet the producers of the Grande Champagne vineyards andthe 1st growth of Cognac. The slopes of the “Champagne” (theword comes from the Latin for “chalk”) districts—Cognac,Segonzac—yield the highest quality brandy. The outlying “Bois”or wooded areas still bear the scars of huge swathes of forestfelled in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, to providefirewood for Cognac's stills and timber for the shipyards at LaRochelle. Transfer in the late afternoon to the Bordeaux airportor the Angoulême TGV station.

B O R D E A U X W I N E & C O G N A C I T I N E R A R Y

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Bordeaux is famous for its architecture and prestigious wines.This luxury three-day break will take you into this magnificent city,its universe of luxury and the pleasure of strolling through itsrenowned vineyards.

Discover the various golden agesof Bordeaux’s history, dominated by

the wine trade and colonial influ-ences. The city’s architecture met

with nearly no stylistic changes for overtwo centuries. The urban project

launched in 1996 by the Mayor AlainJuppé was made concrete by the cleaning

of façades, the development of the quaysalong the Garonne River, the commission-

ing of the brand-new tram and the creationof pedestrian zones. Bordeaux is a now a

UNESCO-listed architectural gem. It is alsoFrance’s capital of élégance.

Vineyards span 120,000 hectaresaround Bordeaux — the world’s oldestwinegrowing area. Your tour will take youthrough the most prominent wine districtslocated on the left and right banks of theGironde estuary. From Saint Emilion and itsmedieval town to the Medoc area withMargaux and Saint-Estéphe appellations,and finally to the Sauternes’ fabulouslysweet wines, you will understand whyBordeaux wines are so celebrated.

INCLUDES• Three days of touring in vehicle with English-speaking driver-guide• Two nights of accommodations at the luxurious Regent Grand Hotel Bordeaux• Buffet breakfast every day• Admission to châteaux and other sites• VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel

18 Luxury Mini Breaks

Bordeaux Wine & City

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Luxury Mini Breaks 19

Enjoy a visit of the astounding Mouton-Rothschild museum and tastings of greatBordeaux wines, and a primer on the nomenclature of appellations and classifications.

Day One. BORDEAUX CITY TOUR & SAINT EMILION. Upon arrival at the Bordeaux train station or Bordeaux Merignacairport late morning, you will be met by your expert driver-guideand transferred to the Regent Grand Hotel Bordeaux located inthe heart of the city. After lunch, your driver-guide will meet youfor a one and half hour city tour followed by the visit of themedieval town of Saint Emilion and its underground monu-ments. End your visit with a wine tasting in one of the numerouscellars that the city offers. That evening, you may enjoy a gour-met dinner at the Hostellerie de Plaisance in Saint Emilion,which is rated with two Michelin stars (reservation required), orreturn to Bordeaux for a relaxing evening.

Day Two. VISIT OF THE MEDOC CHÂTEAUX AND HILLSIDESYour driver-guide will meet you after breakfast for a trip to theMedoc wine region. The region, located between the Atlanticto the west and Europe’s widest estuary to the east, stretchesover 80 km north of Bordeaux to the Pointe de Grave. Thisexceptional region is home to Bordeaux’s most prestigiousGreat Classified and many Bourgeois vines. You will pass manyfamous châteaux such as Margaux, Latour, Mouton-Rothschild

and Lafitte-Rothschild, which reflect the prosperity and pres-tige of Bordeaux. Enjoy a visit of the astounding Mouton-Rothschild museum and tastings of great Bordeaux wines, and aprimer on the nomenclature of appellations and classifications.Savor lunch at a typical Medoc restaurant.

After lunch, discover the Citadel of Blaye and the hillsideregion facing the Medoc, which you will reach by crossing theriver on a ferry from the little harbour of Lamarque. Dine at yourconvenience in Bordeaux.

Day Three. WINES OF THE GRAVES REGIONAfter breakfast, your chauffeur will take to the Graves region,which includes the well-known Château Smith Haut Laffite. Theday will be devoted to wines of the region characterised by theirdiversity and their prestige. The reds are both powerful and fullbodied. The dry whites are elegant and delicate and the sweetwhite wines are luscious. Enjoy lunch at the restaurant la Tabledu Lavoir. You will stop at well known châteaux and enjoy an his-torical discovery as well as a fascinating tasting.

At the end of the day, your driver will transfer you to theBordeaux train station or Bordeaux Merignac Airport.

B O R D E A U X W I N E & C I T Y I T I N E R A R Y

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During this relaxing break where beau-ty, luxury and pleasure prevail, discoverand enjoy the French art de vivre.Sojourn at the luxury hotel-spa LesSources de Caudalie, the firstvinothérapie spa based on grape cures.The hotel, which feels like a countryhome with wood paneling and pastoralviews, is nestled in the vineyards of theChâteau Smith Haut Lafitte in theGraves region, 20 minutes from thecenter of Bordeaux.

You will be pampered delightfully inan environment of rare beauty. Fromthere, you’ll explore the region’s pres-tigious vineyards and wine estates. Thevineyards span 120,000 hectaresaround Bordeaux and comprise theworld’s oldest winegrowing area. Yourtour will take you through the mostprominent wine districts, from SaintEmilion and its medieval town to theMedoc area with Margaux, Saint-Estèphe and Sauternes wines.

The city, a UNESCO-listed site, isexemplary thanks to the unity of itsurban and architectural expression.You will discover the different goldenages of Bordeaux’s history, dominat-ed by the wine trade and various colo-nial influences. The architecture metwith nearly no stylistic changes forover two centuries.

INCLUDES• Three days of touring in luxury sedan or minivan with English-speaking driver-guide• Two nights of accommodations at the country spa and inn Les Sources de Caudalie• Buffet breakfast every day• Entry fees to châteaux, tastings, Mouton-Rothschild Museum and sites.• VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel

20 Luxury Mini Breaks

Bordeaux Wine & Spa

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Luxury Mini Breaks 21

This exceptional region is home to Bordeaux’s most prestigious Crus Grand Classés and many Bourgeois Crus.

Your expert driver-guide will meet you upon yourarrival in Bordeaux by the end of the morning. Your first visit willbe the city of Bordeaux. From the vestiges of the Middle Agesto the elegance of 18th century, discover the different goldenages of Bordeaux's history, dominated by the wine trade andvarious colonial influences. Enjoy lunch at your convenience inthe city. The old town abounds with little restaurants andbistros where you can enjoy local gastronomy such as EntrecoteBordelaise (Bordeaux-fashion steak), fish, shellfish andcheese, all served with a carefully chosen wine. After lunch,you’ll be transferred to your hotel and experience an unforget-table moment at the acclaimed wine-therapy spa. Dine at yourconvenience.

VISIT OF THE MEDOC CHATEAUX ROADMorning departure in the company of your driver-guide to theMédoc region, which stretches over 80 km north of Bordeaux tothe Pointe de Grave. This exceptional region is home toBordeaux’s most prestigious Crus Grand Classés and manyBourgeois Crus. You will pass by many famous châteaux such asMargaux, Latour, Mouton-Rothschild and Lafitte-Rothschild,which reflect the prosperity and prestige of Bordeaux wines.

Visit the beautiful Mouton-Rothschild museum. Enjoy a tastingand introduction to Great Bordeaux wines appellations andclassifications. Stop for lunch at a typical Medoc restaurant.Return in time to relax or enjoy a second spa treatment, beforehaving dinner in the gastronomic restaurant.

SAINT EMILION & GRAVES REGIONYour driver will take you 45 minutes northeast to Saint Emilion.This medieval town stands proudly at the top of a hill overlook-ing the Dordogne valley. Saint Emilion is an enchantment and anincredible open-air museum. The most surprising remains arewithout doubt its underground monuments: galleries coveringmore than 150 acres and the breathtaking, monolithic churchdug out of solid limestone. You will end your visit with a winetasting in one of the numerous cellars that the city offers. Enjoylunch in one of the city’s great restaurants.

The afternoon will be devoted to discovering the Gravesregion and some of the better known châteaux. Graves winesare characterized by their diversity and their prestige. The redsare both powerful and full bodied, the dry whites elegant anddelicate and the sweet white wines opulent and luscious.

At the end of the day, your driver will transfer you to theBordeaux train station or airport for your onward journey.

B O R D E A U X W I N E & S P A I T I N E R A R Y

Day One.

Day Two.

Day Three.

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Wine is what Burgundy is known for, butthere is much more toexperience. This luxurythree-day break willtreat you to gastronomicdelights and teach youhow a single grape vari-ety can offer infiniterange of harmoniouswines, which are amongthe most well-knownand expensive in theworld. Discover theregion’s Grands Crusand visit family estatesand carefully selected

producers. The region also

enjoys a rich and var-ied heritage to explore.

While strolling on thewine routes lined withworld famous estates,discover incomparablesites from Roman civiliza-tion, trace the footstepsof Cistercian monks andthe Dukes of Burgundy.Relish the fine cuisine ofthe region, rooted in tra-dition yet full of subtle

flavours: freshwater trout, carp or pike-perch, Bresse poultry, Charolais beef andescargots.

INCLUDES• Transfers from/to Dijon or Macon TGV station• Transportation in a luxurious sedan with an English-speaking driver-guide for three days • Two nights of accommodations at the Château de Gilly in a junior suite • Two wine tasting lunches and wine tastings at winegrowers carefully selected by your guide• Buffet breakfast every day

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Burgundy Wine& Heritage

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Discover and experience the prestigious vineyards of Vosne-Romanée, Vougeot, Chambolle-Musigny, Morey Saint Denis, Gevrey-Chambertin.

Day One. LEGENDARY CÔTES DE NUITYour English-speaking driver-guide will meet you at the Dijontrain station upon arrival. Transfer to the Chateau de Gilly inVougeot (a half-hour drive), formerly the residence of Cistercianmonks between the 13th and 17th centuries. Located in the heartof Burgundy’s vineyards between Dijon and Beaune, it stands ingrandeur in the heart of Burgundy wine country. The château’s14th-century Cistercian origins contrast with the ornamental styleof the 17th century, creating a palatial, moated residence stand-ing in formal gardens. The estate comprises several historic build-ings, including the stone-vaulted cellar, now a fine restaurant.Guest rooms are decorative with detailed woodwork, fireplacesand French ceilings. The cuisine and wines (from a 15,000 bottlecellar) are a worthy tribute to Burgundy gastronomy.

Enjoy an afternoon private tour of the Côtes de Nuit. Savoursome of the best wines during stops in the vineyards and at wineestates. Discover and experience the prestigious vineyards ofVosne-Romanée, Vougeot, Chambolle-Musigny, Morey SaintDenis, Gevrey-Chambertin. Upon your return to the hotel, youmay dine at your convenience.

Day Two. PRESTIGIOUS CÔTES DE BEAUNEAfter breakfast, embark on full day in the Côtes de Beaune withyour private driver-guide. Discover and experience the regionof some of the most prestigious white wines in the world.Experience the vineyards of Corton-Charlemagne, Meursault,Puligny-Montrachet, Chassagne-Montrachet, Santenay. Tastesome of the best crus during stops in the vineyards and at awine estate.

Savour a tasting lunch followed by a relaxing stroll throughthe ancient city of Beaune, which boasts a splendid architectur-al heritage and the unique Hotel-Dieu, a marvel of Burgundy-Flemish art dating from 1443. Its medieval decor has survivedintact and was used as a general hospital until 1971.

Day Three. We offer three distinct customizable options foryour third day. Choose between a full day in the CôteChalonnaise and Maconnais regions; a full day in Beaujolais; ora Dijon City Tour.

B U R G U N D Y W I N E I T I N E R A R Y

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This luxury break is for the aspiring oraccomplished chef. Treat yourself toa cooking course or demonstration(in English or with a translator) atone of the world’s finest cookingschools or in the private home of aFrench chef.

Depending on the dates youselect, the half or full-day programswill vary from pastry cooking,food/wine pairing, chef secrets,cooking with wine and spirits, a Parismarket tour (followed by a cookingdemonstration and fabulous meal),French regional cuisines (Southwest,Provence, Alsace, Alpine, Lyon region,

Normandy, Brittany, Reunion,French Caribbean, SouthPacific…), and bread baking.

Enjoy either a deluxe roomor junior suite in one of the

fabulous luxury boutique hotels inthe center of Paris that we haveselected. These are located in thecity’s most coveted neighborhoods(Marais, Left Bank or ChampsElysées) and offer a degree ofintimacy and charm that surpass all ofthe large palaces and cookie-cutterchain properties.

There will also be time for museumvisits, shopping, a makeover orpampering, Paris walks and fine dining.

Optional night(s) in Paris after thebreak can be arranged, or you maycombine this with another Paris-regionluxury break.

INCLUDES• Limousine transfers to/from one of the Paris airports or railway stations to your hotel• Two nights in a fabulous boutique hotel in the center of Paris• Breakfast (two mornings)• A full or half-day cooking course at a leading cooking school or in the private home of a French chef

24 Luxury Mini Breaks

FrancePanache can also arrange culinary breaks in other French cities,including Bordeaux, Lyon and Nice. Please contact us for more information.

Culinary Break

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For the lover of true, vintage Champagne, this luxurybreak is a veritable indulgence. EuroPanache willmeet you at the airport, train station oryour Paris hotel and whisk you tothe heart of Champagne country intrue luxury.

You’ll sojourn two nights in amagnificent Relais & Châteauxproperty, surrounded by pastoralvineyards—a favorite stopover ofNapoleon I and, more recently, theQueen Mother. Enjoy the best theregion has to offer, including a drivethrough the scenic “RouteTouristique du Champagne”or a cruise on the MarneRiver with a Champagnetasting (weather permitting)and visits to renownedchampagne houses featuringthe finest millésime roseand white vintages.

Your private guide/drivercan orient the tour as you wish—to enjoy pastoral settings,several of the UNESCO worldheritage monuments in the area(including the magnificent cathedral inReims) or tiny villages and abbeys wherechampagne greats like Dom Perignon and DomRuinart once worked and lived.

Enjoy a gastronomic multi-course meal withreserve champagne and wines in a Michelin star-rated property (one of the finest in France).

Optional night(s) in Paris after the breakcan be arranged, or you may combine this withanother Paris-region luxury break.

INCLUDES• Two nights in a Relais & Châteaux property

(deluxe room or junior suite accommodation)• Breakfast (two mornings)• One gastronomic dinner with champagne

and wine• Driving tour (private car) featuring some of the

finest champagne houses and the natural beauty of the region • Transfers to/from Paris to the Champagne region (first class rail or private car) • Private transfers to/from your hotel to the railway stations

Luxury Mini Breaks 25

Champagne Break

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Enjoy the fabulous French Riviera coastfrom St Tropez to Monaco. The province

of film-star legends and royalty, this region isrenowned for its romantic villages, seaside

villas, Mediterranean views, lush gardens,deep grottos and winding cornices.

From the azure blue coast and its lovelybeaches, the Croisette of Cannes and the chic

town of St Tropez, you’ll revel in star-studdedelegance and opulence. You’ll understand why

this region has been the favorite of glitterati andold money alike since la Belle Époque.

Take time to venture into the backcountry to visitmountain gorges and walk the cobbled streets in

perched villages from the middle ages. Seefields of lavender and experience essences

of perfumes for yourself. Dabble in thehealthy olive oil and herb-based cui-

sine of the region and sample thewines of the Var.

INCLUDES• Transfers to and from Nice airport or train station• Two days of private tours in a luxury sedan or minivan with driver-guide• Two nights in a historic hotel in St Paul de Vence or in a luxury resort between Nice and Monaco with breakfast and VIP welcome and amenities• One wine tasting and one gourmet lunch

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Côte d’Azur

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For a full experience of Provence, this package should be combined with our Haute Provence Break.

Day One. Your driver will pick you up at the Nice airport or trainstation and bring you to your hotel — either a luxury seasideresort between Nice and Monaco or historic property in theperched village of Saint Paul de Vence.

Day Two. After breakfast, your driver-guide will pick you upto explore the Western Riviera. Enjoy a visit to St Paul deVence, one of the prettiest perched villages above Nice,with a fine art museum and galleries galore. Stop in Grasse,which is famous for perfumes and where you'll be treatedto a VIP tour of a renowned perfume museum. After that,proceed to Cannes to stroll down the famous seafrontCroisette — where stars come from the world over duringthe Cannes Film Festival. Next, head to the Var region,where you will enjoy lunch at Chez Bruno, a restaurantfamous for truffles, and then onto a wine tasting. ThePhoenicians planted the region’s first vineyards 2,600years ago and the rosés, whites and light reds are quitegood. Finally, visit St Tropez, a charming seaside townwhere the jet set from the world over converges — it hasshopping, beautiful people, beaches and a yacht harborthat is unrivalled.

Day Three. After breakfast, your driver will take you to explorethe Eastern Riviera. Visit the city of Nice, with its beautifulflower market, English Promenade, charming Vieux Port andMatisse and Chagall Museums. On the way to Monaco, stopin St Jean de Cap Ferrat to visit the Ephrussi De RothschildMansion and Gardens – one of the prettiest on the coast, andthe Villa Kerylos — a reconstituted fifth century BC GreekVilla with incredible mosaics, design, lighting and furnishings inthe très chic village of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Have lunch in one ofthe seaside resort’s many restaurants. Once in Monaco, you’llvisit the Casino square, palace and cathedral where GraceKelly was married. Finally, you’ll visit Eze; a scenic villageperched high in the cliffs above Monaco. The medieval townwith its meandering cobblestone streets offers many interest-ing boutiques. You can admire the amazing coastal views forthe cactus garden at the top before heading to your hotel orthe Nice airport or train station for your onward journey.

Day Four (optional). Enjoy extra days in the region, where wecan arrange cooking classes, art tours (Riviera painters), a hik-ing tour in the Gorges de Verdon — our French GrandCanyon, or just relax in your lovely hotel.

C Ô T E D ’ A Z U R I T I N E R A R Y

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Situated at the heart of south-western France, this land-lockedregion is home to spectacularsites and monuments, whichprovide endless opportunities todiscover culture, the local wayof life, pre-historic remains,charming villages, delightfulscenery and famous medievalcastles.

You can visit medievalcastles, prehistoric caves andbeautiful villages, cruise downthe Dordogne river, and tastewines, foie gras, confit decanard and other specialtiesfrom the Périgord. This regionreally is a feast for the senses!

Stay at an authentic chateaudating from 1597 set in 450acres of stunning countryside, inthe heart of the wine districts ofthe Dordogne. Whether youprefer touring, playing a fewrounds of golf, spa treatments,swimming, cycling, kayaking orjust being pampered and eatingthe rich local fare to your heart’sdelight, your stay will be madeas enjoyable as possible.

INCLUDES• Return transfers from Bergerac airport or Libourne TGV station• Three and a half days of private touring in a sedan or minibus• Three nights in an authentic and renowned Chateau des Vigiers• Breakfast and Taxes

28 Luxury Mini Breaks

Dordogne—Périgord

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Day One. BERGERAC, THE PURPLE PERIGORD Upon arrival at Bergerac airport or Libourne TGV station latemorning, you will be met by your driver /guide. Embark on a tourof the Purple Périgord, which takes its name from the vine leavesthat turn purple in the autumn. Enjoy a city tour of Bergerac, a visitto one of the castles in the area, the Château of Monbazillac, andfinally a wine tasting of a rich palette of red, rosé and white winesfrom the region. Evening free at your chateau-hotel.

Day Two. DORDOGNE VALLEYYour driver-guide will meet you after breakfast to visit the BlackPérigord, where several of the most beautiful villages in France arefound. First stop is a visit to a magnificent village that has managedto retain all its medieval charm. Navigate up paved and steep littlelanes and take timeworn stone stairways to be able to admire theunhindered views of the Dordogne. Visit several medieval castlesfrom the 12th and 13th Centuries. These feature dungeons, spookypassages and period rooms from medieval times.

After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise down the Dordogne River in atraditional flat-bottomed boat past the Pendoïlles cliffs. Stop in thecharming village of Dome on your return transfer to your Chateaux-hotel, where you can enjoy the evening off.

Day Three. LE PÉRIGORDPRÉHISTORIQUE/ PREHISTORICAL PERIGORD

Today you’ll visit some of UNESCO World Heritage listed

D O R D O G N E — P É R I G O R D I T I N E R A R Y

prehistoric sites and caves dating from the Palaeolithic era. TheGrotto of Font-de-Gaume, has dozens of polychrome paintings byStone Age men from 25,000 BC. The most stunning painting is afrieze of five bison discovered in 1966 during cleaning operations.

The Proumeyssac Caves, also known as the Crystal Cathedral,are a dense and varied underground vault of stalactites andstalagmites and are the largest developed cave in the Périgord.Although the famous Lascaux Caves are closed to the public, areplica ‘cave' has been created at Montignac, 200 metres from theoriginal cave, where two of the galleries have been reproduced:the Great Hall of the Bulls and the Painted Gallery. After lunch,visit the recently renovated National Prehistoric Museum to learnabout the amazing discoveries that were made in this region.

Day Four. SARLAT AND THE ERYGNAC GARDENSThe last day will be a little less hectic with plenty of free time toexplore Sarlat. From the 8th century – it is the jewel in the crownof the Périgord Noir – famous for medieval art, and has the highestnumber of listed buildings per square metre in Europe.

Every Wednesday and Saturday there are markets on in Sarlatfeaturing specialties of the region.

After lunch, visit of the Gardens of Eyrignac Manor. Thegardens, among the most stunning in France were laid out in the18th century and transformed in the 19th century into an Englishgarden. Time permitting, stop at a truffle farm.

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On this break, you’ll discover the high plateaux ofProvence, including the perched villages of Gordes and

Roussillon in the Vaucluse andthe Luberon with its legendaryfields of lavender. Taste delec-table lamb and seafood dishesand the rich Chateauneuf duPape wines from the region.

Visit enticing towns likeAvignon with its famous bridge,ramparts and palace of popes.Discover Gallo-Roman vestigesin St Remy de Provence andArles, famous also for Van Gogh.

Enjoy the views of Camargueand the coast from the Baux deProvence, a historic fortresstown considered to be one ofthe most beautiful in France.

Bask yourself in culture Aix enProvence, the City of Art

and Enlightenment,with its universities,

historic townhouses, tree-lined streets, market squares

and Roman baths.Visit Marseilles, the charm-

ing fishing port of Cassis andadmire the views of the coastalcliffs and Mediterranean fjordscalled calanques that are so pop-ular with rock-climbers andtourists alike.

INCLUDES• Roundtrip transfers to and from the airport or train station• Three nights in a luxurious hotel in Aix en Provence or Avignon with VIP welcome and amenities• Breakfast every day• One lunch at a Michelin star restaurant• Chateauneuf du Pape wine tasting• Three and a half days of private sedan and driver-guide to explore the region

30 Luxury Mini Breaks

Haute Provence

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Day One. Your driver-guide will meet you at the Avignon/Aixen Provence train station or Marseilles airport and drive you toyour charming hotel late in the morning. After you settle inand have lunch, you will enjoy a walking tour of Aix enProvence — including the old city, the Quartier Mazarin withits 17th century townhouses, the Sextius Baths and the charm-ing tree-lined Cours Mirabeau. Relax for dinner at your hotelor one of the many fine restaurants nearby.

Day Two. After breakfast, you’ll head on a gastronomic andculinary adventure. Visit small villages in haute Provence —Gordes and Roussillon. Enjoy lunch at la Bonne Etape, a fineMichelin-star restaurant famous for its lamb and fresh vegeta-bles. After lunch, enjoy a stroll at the Mont Ventoux, beforeheading to a wine tasting at a Chateauneuf du Pape winery.

Day Three. After breakfast, discover the historic town ofAvignon — former seat of the Popes and famous for itsbridge. Walk the streets and markets of Saint Remy andBaux de Provence and admire the views. Visit the city ofArles, famous for Van Gogh and its Roman vestiges.

Day Four. Head south for a city tour of Marseilles whereyou’ll visit the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde and theold port. Next head to the charming fishing port of Cassisfor lunch and visit the calanques and the beautiful, whitecliffs along the Mediterranean to La Ciotat. At the end ofthe day, your driver-guide will bring you to the airport ortrain station for your onward journey.

H A U T E P R O V E N C E I T I N E R A R Y

Luxury Mini Breaks 31

For a full experience of Provence, this package should be combined with our Cote d’Azur Break.

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For the lover of food, wine, and finescenery, this luxury break is a truetreat. You will spend two nights inthe lovely Loire Region, savor finewines, and dine in châteaux worthyof true royalty.

Influential Kings lived in the LoireValley since the Middle Ages. CharlesVII resided in Amboise, and hiscousin, Louis XII, in Blois. Francis Ilived at Blois and Amboise, hunted atChambord and Chenonceau, andbrought back many artists and artisansfrom his Italian campaigns who wouldtransform France's medieval land-scape into a vibrantly coloredRenaissance tableau of sculpture andexquisite art.

Savor three of the finest varietiesof wines from the region — includinga Saumur sparkling wine, a light andtasty red Chinon, and a heartyBourgueil . Relish the fabulous foodthe region is known for — includingwild game and mushrooms beyondcomparison. You can even enjoy ahelicopter ride or balloon trip overthe chateaux and visit a medievaltroglodyte home.

Optional night(s) in Paris afterthe break can be arranged, or youmay combine this with anotherFrench regional luxury break.

INCLUDES• Two nights in a lovely castle-hotel (deluxe room or junior suite

accommodation)• Breakfast (two mornings)• Gourmet lunch with wine (two days)• Wine and château tours (two half days) with an English-speaking guide with visits to three wineries and two castles• A helicopter or hot-air balloon overflight of the region• First-class rail transfers to/from Paris to the Loire region• Limousine transfers to/from your hotel to the railway station

32 Luxury Mini Breaks

Loire Wine & Châteaux

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Day One. Upon arrival late morning, at the Tours TGVstation, you’ll have the opportunity to sample wines fromthe prolific Loire region. You may finalize your choices,based on personal taste, with your driver guide. A priori,we would recommend:•A passionate small producer of Bourgueil wine.•A stop in the town of Saumur where you’ll have time forlunch. Saumur is famous for its sparkling wines, and youwould be treated to a tasting of the finest bubbles alongwith an explanation of the “méthode traditionelle.” Yourstop can also feature a visit to troglodyte homes in cavesdug out of rock.•A third wine visit to the Chinon wine growing area. Chinonwines are red, light, and tasty.

Enjoy a multi-course gastronomic dinner at yourfabulous château-hotel’s renowned restaurant.

Day Two. After a balloon or helicopter trip in the morning(optional and weather-permitting), enjoy visits of severalof the region’s most stunning châteaux with your driver-guide. Our recommendations for a day visit woulddefinitely include:• Chenonceau — The favorite châteaux of women — it owesits heritage to Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medecis.• Chambord — the largest of the hunting castles in theregion whose grounds are larger than the city of Paris.• Amboise — perched atop a hill overlooking the river in theheart of a charming town, this castle has lovely renaissancerooms and is close to Leonardo da Vinci’s last home — le ClosLucé. Enjoy dinner in Amboise or at your Château-hotel.

Day Three. After a leisurely breakfast, our driver will take youto the TGV station or Tours airport for your onward journey.

L O I R E W I N E & C H Â T E A U X I T I N E R A R Y

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Join EuroPanache, Les Ateliers Parfumspar Thierry Mugler, and one of the leadingexperts on Marie Antoinette for a veryspecial and sensory two-day, behind-the-scenes experience in Paris and Versailles.

Marie Antoinette, one of history’sfavorite villainesses, was, in fact, a highlycreative and multifaceted woman fromthe Austrian Royal Family, handed off formarriage to France’s Louis XVI at theyoung age of 14. She had a tragic life; yether influence lasts to this day.

Our program combines 18th centuryhistory, perfume creation, period makeupand costumes, a fascinating workshop onhow fans were used to communicate,music composed by Marie Antoinette andperformed live, behind-the-scenes visitsof her private chambers in Versailles, lePetit Trianon, and the Hamlet, a perioddinner by a top chef, a workshop whereyou’ll recreate her favorite chocolate,and a visit to the Conciegerie prison,where she spent her last days prior tobeing guillotined at the young age of 37for alleged crimes that were never sub-stantiated.

Discover how privileged yet tragic thiswoman was—how she defied both royaltyand commoners alike with avant-gardethinking, her sensual side and continuinginfluence on fashion houses like Dior,Chanel and Mugler, her feminine andtomboy periods, genuine coquetterie andtrue generosity. You’ll leave with anappreciation of how naïve she was and anewfound respect for how misinterpretedshe continues to be.

INCLUDES• Airport/train station transfers in a private car • One night in a historic deluxe hotel in central Paris with breakfast• One night in a luxury hotel in Versailles with breakfast• A Marie Antoinette perfume creation workshop (four hours)

• A Marie Antoinette chocolate creation workshop (two hours)• A workshop on period communication with fans (one hour)• Private, behind-the-scenes visits in Versailles• A champagne luncheon at Les Ateliers Parfums par Thierry Mugler• Luncheon in Versailles • A makeup session• Transfers to/from Versailles• A period dinner in one of Versailles’ finest restaurantsNote: This program is recommended for small groups of 4 to 12 people.

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Marie Antoinette

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Day One. You’ll begin at a workshop on Marie Antoinette atMugler’s fabulous premises in central Paris overlooking the OperaGarnier. One of the world’s leading period experts will guide youthrough the basics of the times, her tragic life and her adoration offlowers, scents, chocolates, and makeup. Together, you’ll discoverthe essences of the queen's favorite perfume and witness for your-self the fabulous scent recreated in her name. A light champagnelunch will be served.

Following this exhilarating workshop, you’ll head to Versaillesfor private visits of her chambers, a fun tutorial on how fans wereused to communicate, personal hair and makeup sessions by a fash-ion stylist specialized in the period and a genuine period dinner byone of Versailles’ most celebrated chefs. That night, you’ll sojournin the elegant Trianon Palace Hotel—Versailles’ finest. (L,D)

Day Two. After a lavish breakfast, you’ll have a workshop recreatingand tasting Marie Antoinette’s favorite chocolate—a surprising mix-ture of three vanillas and grey amber—followed by behind-the-scenes visits of the Petit Trianon, the Hamlet and her favorite gardens.

Lunch will be served at La Flotille, the lovely restaurant on theGrand Canal in the Parc de Versailles. After luncheon, you’ll head back to Paris for an exclusive visit of theConciergerie, where Marie Antoinette spent her final days prior tobeing executed. (B,L)

All guests will receive a personally autographed version of Dr.Elisabeth de Feydeau’s award-winning book on the secret history ofon Marie-Antoinette’s Perfumer.

M A R I E A N T O I N E T T E I T I N E R A R Y

Dr. Elisabeth de Feydeau (PhDSorbonne) is one of the leadingexperts on 18th century Parisand Versailles and MarieAntoinette. She is known forhaving recreated MarieAntoinette’s perfume andfavorite chocolate with a lead-ing nose, Francis Kurkdjian. Justabout all of the originalBaccarat bottles of the per-fume, Sillage de la Reine, werepurchased a few years ago bythe Sultan of Oman (butEuroPanache guests will get tosample). Their chocolate cre-ation is now available only onspecial request.

Elisabeth de Feydeau hasalso authored over eight books—including her most two recent, A ScentedPalace: the secret history of Marie-Antoinette’s Perfumer, for which she wonthe Prix Guerlain in 2006, and her latest work, Diptyque. Prior to her associa-tion with Les Ateliers Parfums par Thierry Mugler and EuroPanache, she workedfor Chanel and Bourjois as head of cultural and heritage programs.

Marie Antoinette Expert Elisabeth de Feydeau

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This tour of Normandy beaches is not onlydesigned for the history buff. You’ll enjoy someof the extraordinarily scenic villages and beachesof this region on the West Coast of France, not tomention fabulous seafood and desserts.

On the 25th of July 1944, the Allieslaunched Operation Cobra under the commandof the American General Bradley. The mainobjective was to pierce the German defenses tothe west of Saint-Lo and to start maneuversaimed at encircling the enemy troops from thesouth. After the liberation of Avranches on the

31st of July, two sections of General Patton’sarmy continued towards Brittany and the

Loire, whilst another set off in thedirection of Le Mans and Alençon in

pursuit of the enemy. The Avranchesbreakthrough was therefore instrumental in therapid Allied push to liberate the country, leadingto the crossing of the Seine on the 19th of Augustat Mantes.

Centering on the Allied offensive, ourexpert guide will lead you from Saint Mère Egliseto the famous Omaha Beach, the scene of aterrible battle, to the capture of Carentan andSaint-Lo. The journey recalls the violence of thefighting, notably at “Bloody Omaha,” where atdawn on D-day the assault waves of the U.S. 1stInfantry Division came up against stout resistancefrom the German troops, and at Pointe du Hoc,the scene of the heroic exploit of ColonelRudder's Rangers. The military cemeteries areimpressive memorials that testify to the scale ofloss of human life caused by the fighting here.

Optional visits to Mont St Michel in thesouth and Trouville, Honfleur and Etretat in thenorth are also available for those interested.

Tours focused on battles and memorials forCanadian and British/Commonwealth troops arealso offered.

INCLUDES• Transfers to/from Normandy train stations (Trouville/Deauville or Caen) • One to three days of private tours with your expert historian driver/guide• Two to three nights in a lovely chateau hotel property conveniently located near the Allied beaches• VIP arrival amenities and welcome at your hotel• Breakfast every day

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Normandy

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You’ll enjoy some of the extraordinarily scenic villages and beaches of this region on the West Coast of France, not to mention fabulous seafood and desserts.

DDaayy OOnnee.. Upon arrival at one of the region’s train stations (Caenor Trouville/Deauville), meet your expert driver/guide. You will betaken to a lovely chateau hotel that is close to the Allied landingbeaches. Along the way to your hotel, you can visit charmingcoastal towns and beaches. That evening you may relax, unwindand enjoy a gourmet dinner at the chateau.

DDaayy TTwwoo.. After breakfast, your driver/guide will meet you for atour of the landing beaches and historic towns from D-day. VisitBayeux, Arromanches, the German battery at Longues sur Mer,Port en Bessin, Omaha Beach, American cemetery at Collevillesur Mer, and Pointe du Hoc. Enjoy another evening at the lovelychateau property.

DDaayy TThhrreeee aanndd FFoouurr (Optional). After breakfast, enjoy Mont StMichel. About 90 minutes south of the landing beaches, thislegendary monument is perched on the uppermost point of asolitary rock, rising out of an ever-changing environment of sandand sea. The unique site is thought to date back to 708, whenAubert, Bishop of Avranches had a sanctuary built on Mont-Tombe

in honor of the Archangel. The mount soon became a major focusof pilgrimage. In the 10th century, the Benedictines settled in theabbey, while a village grew up below its walls. An impregnablestronghold during the Hundred Years’ War, Mont Saint-Michel isalso an example of military architecture. Following the dissolution ofthe religious community during the revolution and until 1863, theabbey was used as a prison. Classified as a historic monument in1874, it underwent major restoration work. Mont Saint-Michel andits bay are UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites.

Explore the Northern Normandy Coast — about two hours northof the landing beaches lie some of the most spectacular cliffs andcoastal villages on the French Atlantic coast. Favorites townsinclude Trouville—a Belle-Époque beach town that is far moreauthentic than its better known and glitzier neighbor, Deauville;Honfleur, the charming medieval town from where Samuel deChamplain set off to discover America in 1608 and Etretat, whosewhite cliffs are renowned the world over. The drive along thespectacular Côte Fleurie (flowering coast of Calvados) is aspecial treat.

N O R M A N D Y I T I N E R A R Y

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You’ll enjoy the services of a per-sonal fashion coach and have VIPaccess to world-renowned fash-ion houses and boutiques. If it’s atotal makeover you want, just saythe word. Our personalized fash-ion, beauty, and design programhas been created for men andwomen who want the luxury serv-ice of a customized consultation.

With our network of famousspecialists and experts, whatwas once a dream can nowbecome reality.

This deluxe package willhelp you attain that uniqueParisian chic while refining andupdating your personal imageand style. You will master the artof being timelessly elegant andsuperbly stylish.

Exciting and optional exten-sions to this package, available oncertain dates, include a fashionshow/cruise, atelier/showroomvisits and jewelry design work-shops. For those of you in searchof a legacy, we recommend thatyou combine this package with afragrance creation experience.

Treat yourself to the ultimateindulgence—fashion, spa, andbeauty treatments all wrappedinto one exquisite package.

EuroPanache can also arrangefashion breaks in Milan, Barcelonaand New York. Please contact usfor more information.

INCLUDES• Private transfers by chauffeur driven car to/from Paris airport• Two nights in luxury boutique hotel in Paris• Breakfast every day• Welcome drink and VIP package• Use of hotel spa • Hair and makeup “makeover” sessions• Personal fashion consultant (two days)• Chauffeur driven car to/from all fashion venues/events• Massage and treatments in leading Paris spa

OPTIONAL EXTRAS• Extra night(s) in hotel • Fashion show or cruise• Jewelry design atelier Notes: Airfare to/from and all meals not included are extra. Travellers fromNorth America should plan to depart from home the day prior to commence-ment of the tour.

Paris Fashion

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Day One. Upon arrival, you will be driven to your fabulous Parisianchâteau-hotel by chauffeur-driven car. You will have the afternoonand evening free to enjoy Paris. If you wish, we can arrange a city tourand dinner (extra) for you, or you may just relax in the lovely hotel orexplore on your own.

Day Two. The next morning, you will be picked up by private car andushered to one of Paris’ most beautiful spas for a massage and relax-ation program. In the afternoon, you will meet our fashion expert inyour hotel. You will be brought to an ultra-select Paris hair salonwhere the art director will introduce you to his team of specialistswho will create your new look. They will also disclose the secrets ofsuccessful hair care and styling, be it for your everyday needs or a veryspecial occasion. The second session of the day will focus on skincare and, for women, make-up. After a personal skin care consulta-tion, our star makeup artist will teach you the fundamentals on howto obtain a perfect complexion and on how to sculpt your face andmake it luminous. The chauffeur-driven car will bring you back toyour hotel that evening, where you will have time on your own tocelebrate your new look. Our staff can help arrange an evening atthe opera, a ballet, a fabulous dinner or a number of other Paris-by-night themes.

Day Three. During this day, which is entirely dedicated to fashionand style, let yourself be guided by a private personal shopper tohelp you develop your best style and enhance your wardrobe. Youwill visit (by private chauffeur-driven car) a selection of boutiquesand designer collections with a fabulous array of fashion, coutureclothing, shoes, bags, accessories and jewelry. Thanks to our rela-tionships with many exclusive Parisian establishments, doors willopen and you will be offered special treatment. Advantages with ourpartners include a VIP welcome with champagne, free alterations,free delivery of purchases to your hotel and discounts on purchases.That evening, we will drive you to the airport or train station by pri-vate car or to your hotel if you wish to extend your stay.

Day Four (Optional). If you choose to extend the break to a fourthday, we can tailor for you a personalized fragrance creation experi-ence (page 41), private visits of renowned Place Vendome jewelers,private visits of ateliers and showrooms of Parisian couture houses, afashion show or a fashion cruise on the Seine.

OPTIONS: Check our website for a wide variety of options. Thispackage can be combined with other Paris-based luxury breaks orextra nights in the world’s most beautiful city.

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Paris has long been a major literary capital—almost as much forAnglo-American writers as the French. Notables such as OscarWilde, James Joyce, Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, EdithWharton, Paul Bowles, Ezra Pound, F. Scott Fitzgerald, JamesBaldwin and the Beat poets lived and wrote here.

Depending on your literary interests, our expert guidescan tailor a special tour through time with literary walks,readings and visits to special venues. Browse through

Shakespeare and Company, where Henry Miller andAnaïs Nin hung out. Sip coffee, wine or pastis at thethree haunts—Café de Flore, Brasserie Lipp and LesDeux Magots—favorites of the Black writers, Simon deBeauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre. Dine in the restaurantwhere Benjamin Franklin actually mulled over and wrotedrafts of the US Constitution. Drop into the hotel whereThomas Wolfe and Borges stayed and where Oscar Wildedied. Stroll through the Pere Lachaise cemetery, whereWilde, Molière, Proust, Balzac now rest. Marvel at thePantheon, where Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Andre Malrauxand Emile Zola are buried.

See where Hemingway wrote The Sun Also Rises andwhere James Joyce published Ulysses, the studio whereGertrude Stein held literary court and the elegant apartmentwhere Edith Wharton wrote Ethan Frome, the book thatearned her place in the American Academy of Letters.Discover the “fleabag shrine”—named in honor of the beatpoets—where Allen Ginsberg wrote the poem “Kaddish,”George Corso wrote his mushroom-cloud shaped poem“Bomb” and William Burroughs finished The Naked Lunch. Itwas also home to many other striving musicians and artists.

Now a luxury hotel, at the time, many of the rooms had windows facingthe interior stairwell, so there wasn’t much light and hot water wasonly available on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The linens werechanged only once a month!

Interested in French writers? Our guides will take you to thehomes of Victor Hugo on the Place des Vosges, the apartmentof Honoré de Balzac in Passy, where he spent his waking hoursediting The Human Comedy, and the Museum of RomanticLife, where you'll discover the home life and writing life ofGeorge Sand, among many others.

INCLUDES• Airport/train station transfers in a private car • One night in a historic deluxe hotel in the Paris Latin Quarter• A full day literary tour with expert guide in Paris• Breakfast and lunchPrice does not include airfare to/from Europe. For travelers from North America, please note that you willprobably have to start your travel to Europe one day prior to the start date of the tour.

Literary

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In the fabulous private ateliers of the leading French perfumehouse of Thierry Mugler, experts will help you understand yourown “olfactory profile” and identify your favorite aromas and theworst offenders.

Learn all about the emergence of perfumes through the ages,from the times of the Pharaohs, the Greeks, the Romans, the MiddleAges on to the Renaissance, 18th century and modern day. You’lldiscover how different cultures and religions assimilatefragrances and where in the world rose is mainly used asa masculine fragrance. Understand the fragrancepyramid—top, middle and base notes and learn, byassociation, to identify them in fragrances used today.

In some of the workshops, you can experiment tocreate your own fragrance based on a profile and getfeedback from a perfume expert. In others, you’llexplore some of the least known aspects of perfumeryincluding the two still-allowed forms of natural musk(hint: one comes from sperm whale secretions thatfloat on the ocean’s surface and sell for astronomicalamounts). You’ll hear about perfume’s use as apolitical, sociological and religious weapon, plays onemotion by the major perfumers and some of thedarker sides of the profession. You can also sneak apeek at their gorgeous haute-couture showroom withoriginal collections.

You’ll also visit Paris’ most exclusive perfumeboutique, where priceless concoctions from times pastare still available in the most elegant of surroundings.

Experience for yourself recreations of Marie Antoinette’s fragrance andthe Eau de Cologne specially created for Napoleon—who purportedly wentthrough 40 liters daily, the world’s oldest “modern” perfume made usingorganic chemistry (no longer available, but one from Guerlain, launched justa few years later, still is) and the oldest known fragrance—Kyphi—which wasreborn in the year 2000 at a conference in Cairo based on recipes written onthe walls of temples and pyramids in Upper Egypt.

We suggest that you combine this with our Paris Fashion theme (pages38-39) for a more complete fashion experience!

INCLUDES• Four-hour perfume workshop with a perfume expert from Les Ateliers Parfums par Thierry Mugler • Champagne luncheon• A fragrance gift pack • Half-day guided tour with private driver of Paris’ most prestigious perfume houses• One night in a boutique luxury hotel (Belle Époque period) across from the Louvre and Tuileries gardens• Roundtrip private transfers from the Paris airport or train stations

Perfume

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For the antique lover, this luxury breakoffers a private English-speaking guidefamiliar with the antiques world to helporient you during your shopping trip toParis. EuroPanache will meet you atthe airport, train station or your Parishotel at the start of the break.

You’ll sojourn two nights in astrategically placed, magnificent andluxurious manor house in the citycenter in walking distance from someof the city’s most exclusive antiquehouses. Depending on the type ofantiques (furniture, chandeliers,tapestries, sculptures, paintings,ceramics, etc.) and periods you areinterested in, your guide will arrange apersonal shopping tour and helptranslate and orient you.

Options include the fashionableLouvre des Antiquaires, the very high-end boutiques near rue du FaubourgSaint Honore and rue de Lille (someare invitation-only; we can get you in!),the special marchés in the Puces deClignancourt (where rip-offs and fakesare plentiful, so caveat emptor) andthe antique shops in Versailles.

EuroPanache can also assist you inshipping and/or storage in Paris shouldyour travels last longer.

Optional night(s) in Paris after thebreak can be arranged, or you maycombine this with another Paris-regionluxury break.

INCLUDES• Transfers to/from Paris or one of the Paris airports / railway stations to your hotel in a private car with an English-speaking chauffeur• Two nights in a four-star exclusive manor house in the center of Paris• Breakfast (two mornings)• Private escorted shopping tour of the Paris antiques world (one day)

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Paris & French Antiques

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Versailles

INCLUDES•Transfers from/to Paris airports, train stations or hotel•2 nights at the Trianon Palace Hotel in Versailles•Use of spa facilities and pool•Breakfast and all taxes•A guided behind-the-scenes tour of Versailles castle with an expert guide•Optional private tours of Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny, Chartres Cathedral and other points of interest in the region (extra)

Versailles is home to France’s mostlavish palace and official residence ofroyalty from 1682 to 1790. Originallya hunting lodge built by Louis XIII in1624, it was expanded by Louis XIV touse it as a secret refuge for hisamorous trysts and where he built afairy tale park. Later his architect,Jules Mansart, transformed it with theaddition of the magnificent Hall ofMirrors and elaborate gardens.

While in Versailles, enjoy a behind-the-scenes, private, spectacular, guidedvisit of the private apartments of KingLouis XV, King Louis XVI, and QueenMarie-Antoinette demonstrating therefined and luxurious detail in décorsymbolic of the extraordinary splendorof the Chateau. Follow this with a tourof the Petit Trianon, the Chapel, MarieAntoinette's Garden, the Temple ofLove, the Theater and the Hamlet.

You’ll stay at the Trianon Palace, afive-star spa property with an acclaimedGuerlain spa and Gordon Ramseyrestaurant adjacent to the palacegardens. Versailles is the ideal placefrom which to explore France’s finestcastle and points west of Paris,including Chartres Cathedral, Monet’sgardens in Giverny and the manychateaux and abbeys in the region.

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Brittany is often considered the most beautiful,romantic and charming region in all of France.Come explore the ancient legends and uniqueculture of the area with a three-day tour that issure to amaze you. Marvel in the sites of MontSaint Michel, absorb the Viking and Celtic her-itage, and see breathtaking views of theuntamed oceans that were once the fairways ofsailors, pirates and explorers.

INCLUDES • All transfers to and from Saint Malo train station.• Three days of private tours in a luxury car (sedan or minivan) with driver• Three nights at the Grand Hotel Barrière Dinard in a sea view room• A visit to Malouinière Montmarin

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Brittany CLIFFS, CASTLES & CORSAIRES

Tour the majestic castles as you go back to the time ofknights and chivalry and delight in some of the world’sbest seafood. You are sure to fall in love with the peaceand tranquility of this ancient corner of France.

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Day One. MONT SAINT MICHEL & ITS LEGENDARY BAYTo begin your exploration of the area, you will be escorted to oneof the most ethereal and unforgettable sites in the whole world,Mont Saint Michel. A legendary monument, perched on the upper-most point of a solitary rock, and rising out of an ever-changingenvironment of sand and sea, Mont Saint Michel is unmatched inits splendor and beauty. You will begin with a visit to the charmingmedieval town, passing through the Boulevard and the King’s Gate,and arriving in the Grand Rue, filled with museums, unique shops,and 15th century houses. From there you will visit the renownedabbey, a wonderful panorama of medieval architecture, and itsmagnificent viewpoints over the bay.

That evening, tuck in early for a restful night at your hotel orenjoy a stroll along the Dinard seaside promenade.

Day Two. THE CHARM OF SAINT MALO & DINARD.This day will be devoted to visiting the two famous coastal citiesof Saint Malo and Dinard. Begin the morning at Saint Malo, astunning sixth-century granite town and home to corsair JacquesCartier and writer Chateaubriand. Spend the morning discover-ing its quaint streets, exceptional craft shops, and savory cafésand restaurants. Delight in a delicious crêpe, a local specialty,accompanied by a bowl of fresh and sparkling cider.

Continue your afternoon in Dinard, once the top seasideresort of all of France’s aristocracy and still considered the

“Cannes of the North.” The magnificent villas that dot thecoastline are scenes from a fairytale, and will be sure to amazeyou. Enjoy the afternoon taking in the charm of the town whileperusing some of Dinard’s renowned galleries and artist work-shops featuring masterpieces from Picasso, Gauguin, Serusierand Foujita.

Day Three. CAP FRÉHEL, FORT LA LATTE, & DINANYour final day in Brittany will begin with a trip to Cap Fréhel,without a doubt one of the most beautiful areas in Brittany. Aseabird reserve with an incredible historic lighthouse and forti-fied castle, its storybook sights are sure to amaze you.

Just east of Cap Fréhel, standing 196 feet on a rock abovethe sea, is the imposing pink granite edifice of Fort la Latte. Thisimpressive 13th century castle has stood as the backdrop ofmany films. Crossing the drawbridge and exploring the battle-ments, turrets and dungeons is a must.

For lunch, we recommend a visit to the picturesque harborof Cancale and its oyster beds. Savor the freshest seafoodserved at its beautiful sea view restaurants.

To complete your afternoon, you will be escorted toDinan, one of the best-preserved towns in Brittany. The monu-ment is the town itself, and as you wander through its charmingbasilicas, impressive theatres, and historical castles, you willfeel as though time has stood still in its narrow streets.

B R I T T A N Y I T I N E R A R Y

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Northern Corsica is the home to some of themost beautiful sites in France. Its charmingvillages perched atop wild cliffs, sparklingmountain lakes and breathtaking seasideresorts will open your eyes to a whole newworld. Come enjoy the splendor of theregion as you walk along the charmingcobbled streets of the picturesquetowns, stroll the marinas dotted withrestaurants and marvel in the splendor ofquaint ports. Soak in the culture and thehistory of this amazing island with visitsto local museums. Cruise around mari-nas surrounded by rugged mountains,and stand in the impressive citadels.

Explore majesticpalaces, town squaresfilled with life, andgorgeous cathedrals.Sample local wine,relax along the crystalwaters of the beaches,and let the magic andnature of the area cometo life.

INCLUDES• Roundtrip transfers to/from Calvi airport• 1 night accommodation at the La Villa Hotel including breakfast and taxes• 2 nights accommodation at the Hotel de la Roya including breakfast and taxes• 4 day private tour (Calvi, Porto, Corte, Corsica Museum, Bastia, Governor’s Palace, Cape Corse, Saint Florent, L’Ile Rousse) with guide• Private transportation between cities by minivan

We recommend pairing this trip with our Southern Corsica adventure.

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Northern Corsica Capes & Cliffs

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Day One. THE COASTS OF CALVI AND PORTOYour first day will begin with a visit to the beautiful town of Calvi, aresort that boasts modern amenities while keeping the charm of tra-ditional Corsican culture. As you cruise around the marina, thesplendor of the rugged mountains and pines will amaze you.

You will finish your morning with a closer look at the town asyou discover the quaint cobblestone streets of the citadel and theremains of Christopher Columbus’ birthplace.

That afternoon, you will be transported to Porto, a region sobeautiful it has been named a World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the16th century watchtower that is perched atop the red cliffs. It pro-vides magnificent views of the town and beaches below.Finish your day with a relaxing evening at the La Villa Hotel.

Day Two. CORTE TREASURESYour second day will reveal the treasures of Corte, nestled in theheart of Corsica. Begin your discovery of this ancient capitalwith a stroll along its unique architecture and charming houses,the lively Place Gaffori and the Fontaine des Quatre Canons.

To top off your morning, you will take a tour through thecitadel of the village, set atop a rocky ledge in the valley.

From Corte, you will be escorted to Bastia, a port town setagainst beautiful rolling hills. As you walk the charming, 18thcentury streets that were once home to a young Victor Hugo,the past will come alive.

Day Three. BASTIA AND CAPE CORSEFinish exploring Bastia with a visit to its chic area adorned with fine

N O R T H E R N C O R S I C A I T I N E R A R Y

housing. There you will tour the grand Governor’s Palace, beautifulgardens and churches.

In the afternoon, we will take you to some hidden treasures,beginning with Place Saint Nicholas. Be sure to stop by the Matteishop to pick up some local specialties and get a feel for how townshopping was hundreds of years ago.

Finish your day with a short trip to Cape Corse, dotted withsmall, picturesque fishing villages, an attractive coastline and beach-es and mountain ridges. There you will enjoy a guided tour of itssplendid viewpoints, beaches, and wine-producing hills, with enoughtime to stop and taste the delicious local wine along the way.

Day Four. BEACHES, CATHEDRALS, AND ISLANDSYour final day will start with a trip to Saint-Florent, where you willimmediately be swept away in the beauty of the beaches, lowmountains, soft climate and impressive yachts.

From there, you will proceed to the Cathedral of theNebbio, a stark contrast to the renowned cathedrals of main-land France.

That afternoon, you will pass the white sandy beaches ofSaleccia, some of the finest in the Mediterranean, as you arrive inL’Ile Rousse. Its fine beaches and small rocky islands are as stun-ning as its attractive 18th and 19th century architecture.

Enjoy your afternoon shopping in its sophisticated bou-tiques, roaming the covered market in the Place Paoli, and head-ing through the granite to the Ile de la Pietra for a sumptuous viewfrom the lighthouse. When the sun sets, you’re sure to be awed bythe town and its red granite cliffs in the background.

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Come and discover southern Corsica’sdiverse landscapes, sparkling white

cliffs, prehistoric sites and crystal clearwaters as you explore several of the

island’s most breathtaking towns and vil-lages. Dip your toes into the fresh

Mediterranean water, soak in the uniquearchitecture and coastal views and let the

culture of these charming towns take youback to their Greek and Roman heritage.

Visit Napoleon’s birthplace, delight in somelocal delicacies and roam museum halls thathouse impressive Renaissance works. The his-

tory, views and culture of theregion will reveal them-

selves as you discover the tra-ditions, enthusiasm and pride of

this magnificent island.

INCLUDES• Roundtrip transfers to/from Ajaccio airport • 1 nights accommodation at the Palazzu U Domu Hotel including breakfast and taxes• 2 nights accommodation at the La Casa del Mar hotel including breakfast and taxes• 4 day private tour (Cargese, Ajaccio, Fesch Museum, Propriano, Sartene, Bonifacio, Porto Vecchio, Aleria, Museum Jerome-Carcopino) with guide• Private transportation between cities by minivan

We recommend pairing this trip with our Northern Corsica mini break.

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Sun & Sand of Southern Corsica

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Governor’s Palace, replete with guillotine, and the Sainte Mariechurch, topped off with its characteristic bell tower.

Day Three. THE BEAUTY OF BONIFACIOYour third day will begin with a tour of the oldest town in Corsica,Bonifacio. Start with the Staircase of the King of Aragon, a staircasecut directly into the stone to access the town above. As you enterinto the center of the town, you will be overcome by the beauty ofthe white limestone peninsula, the tall sturdy houses along the cob-bled streets and the endless view from atop the cliffs.

If you’d like, we can arrange a yachting or diving tour, two ofthe most popular activities in the region. That night, tuck into theCasa del Mar hotel for a first-class night of sleep.

Day Four. SANDY BEACHES AND ROMAN RUINSYou will conclude your southern Corsican journey in Porto Vecchioand Aleria. The former is now a very popular beach resort, and itscoastline will give you an opportunity to relax under the golden sun-light. The town itself also merits investigation. You can spend yourmorning roaming around the Place de la Republique with its ancientbuildings, taking a stroll along the marina, and enjoying a freshseafood lunch at a restaurant overlooking the harbor.

From there, your private driver will accompany you to Aleria.The first stop is the renowned Roman ruins, with remnants of aRoman town, villa and necropolis.

Next, you will tour the 15th century fort overlooking the har-bor, which now serves as a historic monument. You can also explorearchaeological works in the Museum Jerome-Carcopino, with itsdisplays of busts, money, pottery and other artifacts.

S O U T H E R N C O R S I C A I T I N E R A R Y

Day One. GREEK AND ROMAN HERITAGEBegin your southern Corsica adventure in the ancient Roman cityof Ajaccio, still filled with ruins and artifacts of its ancestors. Thetown is perhaps best known as the birthplace of NapoleonBonaparte. During your guided tour, you will pass by the housewhere he was born, which is now a museum, and explore thecaves where he played.

That afternoon, you will head to Cargese. Known as the“Greek village” due to its 17th century inhabitants, Cargese offersbeautiful architecture and coastal views. Walk among its white-washed houses, sink your toes into the fine sandy beaches and takea stroll among its stunning churches complete with trompe l’oeilpaintings and breathtaking terrace views.

That evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner and the festive atmospherein Place Marechal Foch, a laid-back area perfect for soaking in the cul-ture of Ajaccio, before resting up at the Palazzu U Domu Hotel.

Day Two. PROPRIANO AND SARTENEYour second day will begin as you enjoy the Italian Renaissancepaintings in the Fesch Museum in Ajaccio. Be sure not to miss theold town with its picturesque, Mediterranean style houses, unas-suming cathedral, and Quartier des Etrangers.

Spend the afternoon in Propriano, where you may enjoy thebeach and swim in the Mediterranean Sea or explore the town as youtake in its ancient Roman and Greek history of the area.

Just a bit down the road from Propriano is Sartene, where youwill end the day. The tall rock buildings will tower above you as youenter in this town that has a long history of piracy and gangsters. Apeaceful and quiet place now, Sartene is home to the old

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Booking ConditionsA deposit of 25% of the cost of the tour is requiredfor us to reserve a space for you. Final payment is due60 days prior to departure. If we do not receive finalpayment by this date, we reserve the right to cancelyour reservation. Payment in full is required at thetime of booking for reservations made less than 60days before departure. Payments can be made bymajor credit card (deposits only), check or bankwire. Any charge-backs will be assessed a ¤100 non-refundable fee in addition to any bank fees charged.In the event that an invoice is not received on time,payment is still due and interest of 16% per annumwill accrue on the unpaid amount for each day thatyou are late. Certain tours, notably those involvingcruises, may have more stringent booking conditions;these are indicated on respective tour pages and willbe provided at the time of booking.

Cancellation PolicyAll notifications of cancellations must be received byfax. We will assess the following penalties on the daythat your cancellation is received.• All cancellations will be assessed a minimum admin-istration fee amounting to 25% of the tour price.• Cancellations received within 31-60 days prior todeparture will be assessed a cancellation fee of 50%of the total tour price.• Cancellations received less than 30 days prior todeparture date will be assessed a cancellation fee of100% of the total tour price.

Cancelled TripsSAS EuroPanache reserves the right to cancel any tripat any time. If cancellation is made prior to departureof the tour, the only responsibility of SASEuroPanache will be to refund to the passenger theamount we have received for an active tour reserva-tion or booking. SAS EuroPanache is not responsiblefor additional expenses incurred by participants inpreparing for the trip, such as nonrefundable airfare,visa fees, medical expenses etc.

Accommodations & ItineraryTravelers are responsible to meet the group on firstday of the tour at the hotel and no refund will begiven for late arrivals or early departures. No refundswill be given for any activity on the tour in which youchoose not to participate. We reserve the right toalter the itinerary as may be deemed necessary forcarrying out the tour. The right is reserved to substi-tute hotels in similar categories. If weather or safetyconditions do not permit safe air travel, we reservethe right to use ground transportation in their place.

ChangesChanges will be accommodated where possible,but cannot be guaranteed. There will be a fee of¤50 for each schedule or change ordered by theclient after the booking has been deposited.

DisabilitiesThe traveler agrees to inform SAS EuroPanache ofany disabilities or limitations prior to departure so wemay advise you. Facilities in certain countries orregions may not be adapted.

InsuranceTrip cancellation, medical and interruption travelinsurance is highly recommended. SAS EuroPanachecan arrange this for you at the time of reservationshould you need it.

ParticipationFor the benefit of everyone on your vacation, SASEuroPanache reserves the right to accept or reject anyperson as a tour participant and to remove from thetour any participant whose conduct is deemed incom-patible with the interests of the other participants.

Price GuaranteeAll tour prices are based on rates, including foreignexchange, known at time of printing and expectedto be in effect at the time of departure. Prices aresubject to increases without notice if such rateschange. The current price will be confirmed at thetime of reservation. Once SAS EuroPanache hasreceived your deposit for any tour departing in thecurrent calendar year, that price is guaranteed, andany sub- sequent cost increases are at our expense.Tour prices are per person, based on double occu-pancy. Single room supplements are listed whereapplicable.

Visa and PassportsFor tours requiring visas, detailed visa information willbe provided. You are responsible for obtaining allvisas and entry documents. All passengers travelinginternationally are required to have a passport. Mostcountries require that the passport be valid for atleast six (6) months beyond the conclusion of yourtrip. Customs or immigration officials can, at theirown discretion, deny a passenger entry into theircountry. Though this is rare, SAS EuroPanache and/orits affiliates cannot be held responsible for deniedentry under any circumstances.

Extras Not IncludedAir transportation to/from the point of origin/termi-nation of the tour, airport taxes and fees, porterageof more than one suitcase, passports, visas and vacci-nations, laundry, telephone, hotel mini bar, alcoholand beverages and food unless stated otherwise,optional excursions, travel insurance, and all otheritems of a personal nature are not included in thetour price.

SafetyPlease be aware that during your participation intours operated by EuroPanache LLC, certain risksand dangers may arise beyond our control including

but not limited to, the hazards of traveling in under-developed areas, travel by boat, train, automobile,aircraft, helicopter or other means of transporta-tion, the forces of nature, terrorism, nuclear radia-tion due to nuclear power plant accidents or acts ofwar (declared or undeclared), biological or chemi-cal warfare, toxic spills, political unrest and acci-dent or illness in remote regions without means ofrapid evacuation or medical facilities. SASEuroPanache will not assume liability regarding pro-vision of medical care or the adequacy of any carethat may be rendered.

ResponsibilitiesEuroPanache, acts as an agent for services providedby other hoteliers and transport providers and cannotbe held liable for any damage, loss (including person-al injury, death, and property loss) or expense occa-sioned by any act or omission on their part. Baggageand personal effects are the passenger's own risk andit is the responsibility of the passenger to obtaininsurance against loss or damage. SAS EuroPanacheis not responsible for activities travelers choose totake part in during free time. EuroPanache reservesthe right to correct any errors or omissions of infor-mation, prior to final payment being received byEuroPanache LLC.

JurisdictionThese Terms and Conditions shall be governed andinterpreted exclusively according to the laws of theCountry of France. Any dispute between vacationplanner, travel agency and/or the Provider directlyor indirectly relating to the Terms and Conditionsshall be first submitted to mediation before a per-son mutually agreed to by the parties. If mediationis not successful, the dispute must be resolved bybinding arbitration under French law before aJudicial Arbiter Group. The prevailing party shall beentitled to an award of costs and reasonable attor-ney’s fees. Arbitration against the Provider must becommenced within six months following the dateof tour completion. Neither the Provider nor anyaffiliate shall in any case be liable for other thancompensatory damages. The traveler hereby waivesany right to punitive damages.

AcknowledgementThe traveler hereby acknowledges having read andunderstood all the provisions of this agreement,and agrees that by accepting reservations andvouchers, he will be bound by the Terms andConditions set forth hereabove.

Date

Signature

SAS EuroPanache — BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS (EURO)Please read the following booking policy carefully and keep a copy for your records.

50 Booking Terms and Conditions

SAS EuroPanache — 10 place Vendôme, 75001 Paris — LI 075 06 0035 — Assuré RCP GAN — Garantie APS

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©EuroPanache 2011For more information, contact your favorite travel agent or visit our website, www.europanache.com

FRANCE by EuroPanache®