Did anyone take Rick's "Loire to the South of France in 13 Days" tour this year? If so, I'd really like to hear what you thought of it, any tips for particular days on the itinerary, what you did before/after the tour, etc. If you kept a trip blog and are willing to share, please send me the address via PM (so we don't annoy the Webmaster!). I'm considering this tour for next year and, among other things, am having a hard time deciding whether May or September would be better. Ordinarily, I'd check out the tour reviews section, but they seem to have been suspended till January while the site is rejiggered or something, so no new reviews have been posted since early July.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32201 posts
Teresa, I took the Paris & South of France tour a few years ago, which is very similar to the one you're referring to. They changed the format after my tour and ped Paris. My tour started on May 30, and the weather was really nice the entire time. For the tour you're considering, I'd definitely arrive in Paris at least two days prior to your tour. That will give you an opportunity to not only get over jet lag, but also spend some time in Paris (there's always something to see in Paris!). If you have the time, you could also spend a few days or a week elsewhere in Europe after your tour ends. After my tour, I headed to Italy for a couple of weeks (easy trip from Nice). Unfortunately I didn't publish a Blog of that trip, but I have my notes and photos and could certainly put one together one of these days when I have some spare time. I'd have to review my notes to come up with any "tips for particular days on the itinerary". You'll probably need to use part of your free day (Day 7) for doing laundry and catching up on other "housekeeping chores". You'll also have some free afternoons and evenings, and your Guide will know which towns offer laundry facilities. Good luck with your decision!
Posted by
Orlando
516 posts
I did Paris and the Heart of France last year and had a great time. Marie was our guide and she was super awesome. Spend a couple days in Paris before the tour. You won't be trying to get over jet lag while on your tour.
Posted by
Westford, MA, USA
564 posts
I'm going beginning of May and spending a few nights in Paris before I meet the tour in Chartres. Originally hoped to go in September to experience a different season. We had great time & weather in early May several years past so wanted to experience a different time. Tour looks like a wonderful time covering an array of places and activities and I have butterflies in my tummy just thinking about it!
Posted by
OP
Seattle
905 posts
LaRae: Marie was my guide when I took the Paris in 7 Days tour in 2008. She was most definitely awesome. I took the Paris & the Heart of France tour the following year and loved it. I think that's the one that really got me addicted to touring!