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When many people hear the word ‘cruise’ they imagine a massive ocean liner and a holiday experience enjoyed along with hundreds (if not a couple of thousand) of other guests. But if that idea doesn’t float your boat – and let’s face it, it’s certainly not for everyone – you’re in for a very wonderful surprise. Because there’s a very different kind of cruise that exists for lovers of slow, more relaxed travel – barging. The Art of Hotel Barging Cruising the idyllic waterways of Europe on a hotel barge really is the most wonderful way to see the countryside and immerse in the culture. While there are many places to discover, barge trips through France are probably among the most popular – allowing you to explore iconic regions like Burgundy, Alsace and Lorraine, Gascony, Bordeaux, Champagne, the Canal du Midi, the Loire Valley, Picardy and, of course, Paris. The Hotel Barging Experience Those who have never been lucky enough to have enjoyed this kind of holiday before might be wondering what to expect on barge trips through France. Well, sit back, relax and get ready to armchair travel in style… A Genuine Home from Home One of the best things about this kind of travel is that, unlike other holidays with multiple stops on the itinerary, once you’re settled in to your on-board accommodation you won’t have to pack or unpack again until the last day. Barges typically cater for eight to twenty guests (with attentive, highly experienced crew) and, depending on the vessel, cabins, suites and staterooms range from cosy and traditional to unashamedly luxurious. You’ll also have access to facilities like a bar, an on-deck spa and even bicycles, should you wish to ride alongside on the well-kept towpaths of many of the routes. Fabulous Fine Dining Barge trips through France focus heavily on the food and wine of the particular regions because – well because why wouldn’t they? You’ll dine like royalty on-board, with gourmet meals prepared by the professional chefs, accompanied by a range of fine local wines. Of course you’ll also be able to try out the local restaurants at many of the villages and towns along the routes, but it’s fairly difficult to tear yourself away from this kind of on-board hospitality. Excellent Excursions While it might be tempting to simply stay on deck and watch the world go by as you cruise along the tranquil waterways, the best barge trips through France afford you plenty of opportunities to disembark and enjoy a range of well-organised shore excursions. As well as tours to local attractions at each stop, you’ll also be able to visit magnificent castles and chateaux, vineyards for tastings and many historical and cultural places of interest. The pace is genuinely relaxed on these excursions, with air-conditioned mini-buses and all the details taken care of. Your only job is to enjoy! Themed Cruises One final thing to know about barge trips through France (and other fabulous destinations in Europe) is that some of the itineraries are geared towards guests with special interests. So if you’ve got a particular passion for wine, cycling, walking, golf or even opera, one of the themed cruises that focus on that particular thing could be your dream holiday come to life. But whatever your interests and wherever you choose to take your cruise, once you’ve tried this kind of laid back, immersive travel, you’ll be well and truly hooked. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury barge trips through France. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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