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Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is A Taste of France Tours?
A Taste of France Tours is a small company owned and operated by Dominique and Christophe Cachat, a young, dynamic couple who are passionate about sharing their secrets of food and wine in the South of France.
- Are A Taste of France tours in English?
Yes. Dominique and Christophe conduct all tours in English. Dominique is a native English speaker and Christophe a native French speaker. Both are bi-lingual and able to communicate in both languages.
- Are the classes and activities in English?
Yes, all our classes and any guided activities are in English.
- Who are the tours designed for?
A Taste of France tours are designed for anyone and everyone who enjoy travel, food wine and France. Join us for a tour as a solo traveler, a couple or a small group of friends or family.
- How many people will be on my trip, and what are the ages?
Our focus is on small groups of 6(six) persons. Smaller groups allow us to better immerse into the French culture. Our adventures appeal to persons of the age of 20 to 70. We enjoy all ages, as long as they love food, wine & travel!
- Are children welcome on A Taste of France tours?
Children 18 years and older are welcome on our tours. Families with children under the age of 18 are welcome to contact us to book a private tour for their family. Visit our Customized Adventures page.
- What are the accommodations like?
The accommodations on all tours are historical châteaux and bed & breakfasts, all chosen for their high levels of comfort, ambience and location.
- What kind of transportation is used for the tours?
Professionially chauffeured, air conditioned minivans.
- What kind of food will we have on the tour?
French food, of course! Most restaurants will give a choice of two appetizers, two entrees (fish or meat) and cheese and/or dessert. The restaurants range from Michelin-starred to local cafés and all have been especially selected for the tour.
- What is the physical activity level of your tours?
Easy to moderate. France is a country of hillside villages, cobble stoned streets and limited elevators. The tour is not designed to be physically challenging, but everyday life in France can include long walks and stairways. The selected hotels are no higher than three levels and do not have elevators.
- Do I have to participate in all the scheduled activities of the tour?
No. We have created an itinerary complete with activities and free time to ensure guests personal freedom to explore on their own, dine at local restaurants and shop at markets and boutiques. Each guest will have the choice to participate in the activities of interest to them. Everyone is here to enjoy and have a good time!
- If my spouse/partner is not as interested in culinary as me, are there other activities for him/her?
Certainly. Not every activity we plan is all about food and wine. There is leisure time in which you are welcome to do whatever you please. We can recommend other activities such as biking, canoeing or hiking. There is never time to be bored in the South of France.
- What is included in the tour price?
View our Food & Wine Adventures for details.
- What is excluded in the tour price?
View our Food & Wine Adventures for details.
- How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
It is never too early to book a tour with us. Due to the small, intimate groups we guide, tour dates may fill up quickly.
- Can I have a private room if traveling alone?
Yes, you may have a private room. A single person supplement will be applied.
- Where do your tours start and end? How do I get to the starting place?
Our tours begin and end at the Avignon TGV train station in Avignon. Group transfers will be available once you arrive and at the end of the tour. The Avignon TGV train station is accessible by the high-speed TGV train from all major French cities. Smaller cities may require a train transfer at a major city train station. If you are traveling elsewhere before the tour, you can fly into Paris, Lyon or Marseille and take the TGV from the airport. If you are traveling elsewhere after the tour, you can take the TGV to most airports and other European cities. The French rail system is excellent and runs generally on time, its' also a lovely way to see the countryside. It is recommended that you buy a first class rail ticket as the cost differential is not too great but the upgrade in service is well worth it. Click to make train reservations.
- What clothes are most appropriate for your tours?
It is your vacation and we would like you to feel as comfortable as possible. During the day, we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes and a light sweater or jacket. For evening outings and restaurants, a sport coat for men, dressy slacks or skirt for ladies.
- What is the best time of year to take one of your tours?
Anytime of year in the South of France is beautiful. The high tourist months are July and August. During these months, markets are crowded, traffic is dense and service can be slow.
Therefore, we do not do set tour dates during these months, but we can customize a tour at anytime of the year. See current weather in the Provence region.
- Do you offer self-guided tours?
View our Customized Adventures for details.
- How many bags can I bring?
Limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on. Mark your luggage with your name, address and phone number. Remember that all liquids need to be packed in your checked luggage and not your carry-on. Leave room in your luggage for bringing back gifts and wine ! Remember, when you are traveling on the trains, you will be your own porter, and you will be glad if you stick to one medium bag.
- Do I need travel insurance?
A Taste of France Tours highly recommends purchasing travel insurance for your trip. View our Terms & Conditions. You can purchase travel insurance online at www.insuremytrip.com.
- When is the final payment due?
The balance of your payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Payments must be in U.S. dollars, and can be made through Paypal, using Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or check.
- How do I reserve using PayPal and is it secure?
A Taste of France Tours accepts payments through PayPal for fast, easy and secure online payments. Used by millions of people worldwide, PayPal accounts are free and easy to create. A Paypal account can be created by visiting PayPal.com. Once created, your PayPal account allows you to make online payments using your credit card, debit card, or bank account without exposing your credit card number or bank information.
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