BARGE TRIPS IN FRANCE PROVIDE A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO APPRECIATE THE PLEASURES OF SLOW TRAVEL.

There is a whole group of individuals that do not need any kind of persuasion about the so-called “slow travel” experience that is becoming more and more popularity. People who have previously gone on one or more barge cruises in France are among those who are considered to be very fortunate. The most relaxing and satisfying way to explore the culture and landscape of a country is to take a cruise down tranquil waterways, visit off-the-beaten-path parts of the country, make lifelong friends with other travelers who share similar interests, and enjoy magnificent cuisine that was created by chefs from around the world. Barge journeys in France are leisurely in the most immersing sense of the term, and because of this, passengers have the chance to really interact in the lifestyle of the locals. The following are some of the persuasive reasons to consider this ‘go slow’ way of vacationing for those individuals who have not yet been won over by the pleasures that river sailing has to offer. They are listed below. A Close and Personal Experience Considering that the vessel is shared with just a select few people (the maximum number of passengers that can be accommodated on these “hotel barges” is typically twenty, and sometimes as low as six to eight), the atmosphere is that of a laid-back and welcoming group. It is likely that the other people who are traveling with you have similar interests and are seeking for a relaxed trip that includes lots of relaxation and a friendly environment. As a result of this same reason, the ratio of personnel to passengers is quite high, and you can anticipate receiving excellent personal attention from the captain, tour guides, hostesses, and chefs. An Easygoing and Casual Pace In general, the most enjoyable barge cruises in France are those that take place along the smaller canals of the nation, which are the ones that bigger boats are unable to manage. The payoff is that you have the time and vantage point to view far more, despite the fact that they go more slowly and don’t cover as much distance as other modes of transportation. On a weeklong trip, you will probably cruise around 70 miles, sailing at approximately 3 miles per hour for just a few hours each day. This number is only a preliminary estimate. This indicates that you will have enough of time to fully immerse yourself in the culture and atmosphere of the breathtaking regions that you visit. Lean in to the life of the community. As a result of this relaxed speed, there are several chances to disembark at the frequent stops that are located throughout the canals and rivers. If you go with a well-established operator that has a solid reputation, you can rest assured that they will provide you with a variety of carefully selected shore excursions. These excursions will allow you to get a glimpse of the charming towns, vineyards, chateaux, and rural countryside from a more personal perspective. You may even get off the barge and ride your bicycle beside it on the well-maintained towpaths, or you can just walk along under your own power. It is the fact that you are able to enjoy experiences such as these that makes this such a fantastic way to travel at a slower pace. As a matter of fact, the barges never cruise at night, which means that you can be certain that you will never miss a single moment of the breathtaking scenery that is found along the journey. Indulge in Fine Wine and Gourmet Food There is no doubt that the culinary experience is one of the most pleasurable aspects of any of the barge tours that are offered in France. Gourmet meals are prepared by the on-board chefs, with an emphasis on seasonal local ingredients from the regions that you visit. These dinners are complimented by high-quality wines. When it comes to getting to know an area, there is simply no better approach than to sample the original traditional food of that region, and you will be completely spoilt in this regard! Take pleasure in living your life in the slow lane. It is a really addicting way to spend a week, and many people who have previously experienced barge travels in France return again and again to attempt a new route (or even the same one). As a result, barge tours in France are becoming more popular. On the other hand, those who are ready to go on their very first hotel barging cruise are in for a pleasant surprise… Publisher’s Plate Currently, Paul Newman serves as the Marketing and E-Systems Executive at European Waterways, which is widely regarded as the most reputable supplier of luxury barge tours in France that include all possible amenities. In addition to being a member of a group of knowledgeable barge enthusiasts, Paul is the first person to recommend the advantages of a leisurely barge cruise to anybody who is searching for a vacation experience that is really one of a kind.