I think this year's cruise on the Canal was perhaps the pleasantest trip I have ever had. I keep thinking of all the descriptive adjectives we could use to describe such a journey. My friend says, "meditative." Barging for me is personal and private where guests are welcomed as friends. It is maybe the best of all worlds ... the exterior and the interior. When I think of the crisp days with clear blue skies, the shimmering trees along the canal, I think of the best outdoor experience. Then just inside the door was the warmth and coziness of our cabins and always a cheerful person to care for us.

Serene, nurturing, dream-like days, passing under the canopy of the trees with the vineyards on either side and an occasional town to browse though. Pleasant lunches, sumptuous dinners with riotous belly laughing. Such camaraderie. The visuals of one in our group tap dancing. We had our own private party, day after day. And we didn’t have leave the party to go home because we were already home.

For those who joined me this year, simply, thank you for joining me. I so enjoyed getting to know you better ... to reconnect with old friends and to make some new ones. For those who have yet to experience spending a week on a barge on a canal in France ... you are in for such a treat!! What a perfect way to make new friends, and celebrate old friendships. After twelve years of running tours, this year's cruise, for me, was one of the all time best, and 2003 will be even more fantastic!

Tour Leader, Oklahoma ... Charter, 2002.

Navigating the Locks ...

Winetasting ...

Cycling Along the Towpaths ...

Great Escorted Excursions Along the Way ...

"We were totally spoiled: the meals were prepared expertly from fresh, mostly local ingredients and served in a visually attractive and appetizing fashion; the wine was a very good cross section of the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes from Burgundy, with a few champagnes to smooth the bumps; the scenery along the canal was beautiful; and the interaction with the crew was always pleasant and the level of service was always beyond expectation. A trip of a lifetime!!"
     -- J.H., Ontario, Canada

Through Hills and Wine Country ...

"It turned out to be a first class way of seeing the French countryside. We explored small towns that we would never have come near to on a road trip. We went to hidden wine cellars and marvelous cathedrals. I cannot believe that we would have seen as much or learned as much on any other type of trip. We took a balloon ride, which was unbelievable."
      --D.B., Boxford, Mass.

Great Crews ...

Gourmet Luncheons and Dinners ...

"In a word our barge trip was superb! We've traveled a great deal and this was by far the nicest week we have spent on vacation. Everything was done to perfection; the boat was restored beautifully and every comfort considered, we cannot say enough about the entire crew. They were highly professional but warm and gracious. The food was a memorable experience in itself. All and all a fine experience, which we would highly recommend. Thank you for your help and suggestions."
     -- P.H., Newport, RI

"From the warm welcome to our final good bye we certainly felt pampered. We explored charming villages, visiting wineries, markets, museums and cathedrals. Everything exceeded our expectations, especially the fabulous meals on board."
     -- B.M., Brooklyn, NY.

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