About This Journey

This Journey will immerse you in the beautiful French coastal regions of Bordeaux, Britany and Normandy. Given its long and rich history, it’s no surprise Bordeaux has more registered historic monuments than any other French city after Paris. In fact, its entire city center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. On an excursion outside of the city, you’ll visit Arachon to taste the exceptional oysters fresh out of the bay as well as visit the tallest sand dune in Europe, Dune du Pilat. Then, spend a day in the Haute-Medoc wine region where you will visit two wineries, one of which was visited by Thomas Jefferson as America’s Ambassador to France in 1787 and exclaimed it to be one of the best wines he’s ever tasted. Enjoy a city tour of Bordeaux before embarking the Azamara Quest for a 9-night sailing to the rugged coastlines, medieval towns, and rich cultural heritage of Brittany and Normandy in northern France. Highlights include the Breton walled city of Saint-Malo, Cherbourg in Normandy with its World War II history and an overnight stay in Rouen. These regions offer a delightful mix of historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and culinary delights, making for a diverse and delicious travel experience.

Visits: Bordeaux, Margaux Wine Region, Roue

Included Features

• International airfare, transfers and baggage handling
• 3-night pre-cruise land program in France
  • Bordeaux, France: 3-night hotel stay
    • Welcome Dinner
    • Tour to Arachon with Oyster Tasting and Dune du Pilat
    • Wine region tour with lunch
    • Half-day sightseeing tour
• Tour Leader throughout pre-cruise land program and Local Tour Hosts during included tours
• Most meals while on tour (see itinerary highlights) and all meals while onboard
• 9-night sailing aboard Azamara Quest
  • 10% off shore excursions
  • Amenities included during your Azamara cruise:
    • AzAmazing Celebrations^SM
    • Select standard spirits, international beers and wines
    • Gratuities
    • Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
    • Self-service laundry
    • Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available
    • Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
    • Much more!
    • Special Offer—Ends 12/31: Receive up to $1,000 Onboard Credit and up to a $600 Gift Card of Your Choice per stateroom, including a $200 Limited Time Bonus shown in total Exclusively from Us. Call for details!

What to Expect on Your Trip

Pacing

Land Program Includes Guided Tours Plus Some Free Time

4 out of 5 – Land Program Includes Guided Tours plus Some Free Time
The overall pace is active, as we have included guided tours to most major attractions in the area. Most days will include a full-day or half-day tour, with some free time mixed in as well. Guests should be prepared to walk a couple miles per day while on full-day tours. Breakfast is always included at the hotel. Some additional meals may be included, while other meals may be at your leisure. All hotels will have a restaurant on property where you may dine. If you wish to go out, your guide is available to make suggestions for nearby dining.

During the cruise you will have a mix of relaxing days at sea and exciting days on land to explore the port cities. You may choose from optional shore excursions, which will allow for cultural immersion, exotic meals and numerous activities.

Physical Activity

The land portion of the trip should be considered active and includes a considerable amount of walking. Visits to medieval towns will have narrow cobblestone streets and are mostly inaccessible by car or coach and therefore requires being on foot.
Enrichment Journeys will do everything in our power to ensure comfort through our third-party providers, including air-conditioned buses and comfortable accommodations where applicable. However, some areas cannot be accessed by coach, so our drivers will get you as close to sites as is legally allowed. Sensible, rubber-soled walking shoes are strongly recommended. Historical sites often do not have elevators, escalators, or ramps due to the age of the building/structure. Steps can be steep and uneven. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed.

Wheelchair access at many sites is limited to extremely limited. A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Guests must be able to transfer from their chair to the transportation. Guides/drivers are not allowed to lift or push wheelchairs, so guests requiring physical assistance must travel with a companion who can assist. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program.

For the cruise portion of the trip, passengers will board and leave the ship up stairways and gangways, and you may have to walk a moderate distance to transfer to train, bus and car stations. Time spent on the road and traveling can be long, so you will need to be prepared for stretches of down time in between destinations.

Cultural Focus

The focus of this Enrichment Journey is local wine and gastronomic traditions of the Bordeaux Region. You will encounter dishes and ingredients typical to the region that you may not have encountered before, and you will be introduced to local artistry of the region. Enrichment Journeys encourages an open mind when in unique situations and meeting people abroad. Sometimes the attractions, beaches, and cities themselves can be crowded, especially while on the cruise.

Unique Factors

If you have special needs or physical limitations, you will need to check in with your personal vacation manager before booking the trip. The temperature can vary between day and night, so pack accordingly with items that can be layered. Some guests may wish to have a light sweater or windbreaker with them.

Transportation

While on tour:

Bordeaux to Arachon: 1-hour coach transfer

Bordeaux to Margaux: 1-hour coach transfer

Please note that these times are approximate and only reflect the transportation time. Our trip may be longer due to stops for sightseeing along the way.

International Airfare:

Included international airfare is from select airports only. To inquire about a different airport, please contact your Personal Vacation Manager.

Enrichment Journeys is committed to providing remarkable experiences at extraordinary value. As a result, airlines and routes are selected to maximize that value and may involve multiple stops and extended layovers versus non-stop or direct flights. Passengers wishing to utilize specific carriers, direct/non-stop flights, Business Class upgrades, or to extend their time in any of our beginning or ending destination cities may do so by contacting Enrichment Journeys and inquiring about the Custom Airfare Program. There is a $100 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $100 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.

Special Offer—Ends 12/31: Receive up to $1,000 Onboard Credit and up to a $600 Gift Card of Your Choice per stateroom, including a $200 Limited Time Bonus shown in total Exclusively from Us. Call for details!

Ask about receiving 10% off all shore excursions from Shore Excursions Group!

View Azamara Terms and Conditions. Offer expires December 31, 2024 or when sold out.

1-night Bordeaux Extension (pre-cruise)

Want an extra day to adjust to the new time zone? With this optional extension you will arrive to Bordeaux a day early and have one extra day to relax at the hotel before the tour starts. Note: tours are not included. Price of $220 per person (based on double occupancy) includes:

• 1-night hotel accommodations in Bordeaux with daily breakfast
• Private transfer from airport to hotel (applicable when air is booked through Enrichment Journeys)

The following hotel list is preliminary and subject to change. Although we contract for hotels a year or more in advance, unforeseen circumstances do occasionally require a change of hotel. Should it be necessary to change a hotel, one of equal quality or value will be substituted and you will receive confirmed hotel information with your final itinerary.

Mercure Bordeaux Centre Ville

5 rue Robert Lateulade, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Telephone: +33 5 56 56 43 43

Mercure Bordeaux Centre is the ideal hotel in the heart of France’s beautiful wine region. Relax in the modern bedrooms, grab a drink at the bar or socialize in the lobby and lounge spaces, then head to the water mirror! The restaurant Sans Pression will delight gourmets who love brunch and local produce. Discover Bordeaux’s center by foot, must-sees such as St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Place de la Bourse and Place des Quinconces. Hop on the tram, just a 2-minute walk away, to visit Cité du Vin or Darwin.

Azamara Quest

Cruise Line: Azamara Cruises

Azamara Cruises provides guests with unparalleled service: the finest dining at sea, a glorious spa and wellness experience, and innovations such as Destination Immersion®, making it one of the world’s top up-market cruise lines. With the hallmark of longer stays, more overnights and night touring, Azamara Cruises will not only take you to awe-inspiring destinations but also give you more time to fall in love with them.

Amenities Included

• AzAmazing Celebrations^SM event on most voyages
• Select standard spirits, international beers and wines
• Gratuities
• Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
• Self-service laundry
• Shuttle service to and from port communities where available
• Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations

Ship: Azamara Quest

Like her sister ships, the sturdy Azamara Quest is a mid-sized beauty with a deck plan well-suited to the needs of modern voyagers. You’ll never feel crowded in the comfortable social spaces of our bars, restaurants, lounges, casinos and Cabaret. Nor will you feel like a sardine jammed in around the pool, where the attentive staff is always ready to offer complimentary bottled water, soft drink or fresh towel. Staterooms feature modern amenities, furnishings and European linens. And one of the greatest features of this ship is the high percentage of staterooms with Verandas. There’s nothing better than opening your door to the fresh sea air and views. Azamara’s friendly ships are an altogether wonderful place to call your home away from home!

Before You Go

Money Matters

How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.

ATM Machines

These are often readily available, especially in major cities. Some will charge fees on top of what your hometown bank may charge for using ATMs abroad. Look for well-marked machines that have the Visa or MasterCard symbols.

Foreign Banks

Currency can be exchanged at most banks, if needed. Ask a local host or tour manager if there is a nearby bank that is open.

Credit Cards

During your trip, you’ll find that most major credit cards are accepted. Call your specific card issuer ahead of time to find out its limitations and benefits overseas.

Incidentals

Do be aware that some additional charges for mini-bars, laundry and room service will not be included in the tour package. Plan accordingly for these extra charges.

Packing Guidelines

Pack as simply as possible for easy transfers and customs screenings. Check with your domestic and international carriers regarding baggage guidelines, allowances, and check for additional fees. All bags will be screened before boarding flights and the cruise ship.

What to pack

Basics and layers are key to a comfortable Journey. Be sure to check the weather in the destinations you will visit, and pack accordingly. There are always unpredictable variables as well, so make sure you have one sturdy jacket and an outfit for a formal occasion too, just in case.

Here are a few key items to take on your trip:

• Raincoat/poncho
• Hooded jacket/fleece pullover
• Pants with pockets
• Skirt with pockets
• Hat with visor & sunscreen/bug spray
• Warm socks
• Sturdy sandals
• Practical shoes for walking/easy hiking
• Extra pair of prescription sunglasses and/or glasses (if needed)
• Camera(s)

Have back-ups for everything to avoid disappointment. Charge batteries in advance and bring extra film or digital memory cards. If bringing a high-end camera, consider investing in insurance to protect your asset.

Luggage Screening Process

To pass through screening, have liquids either in small containers and bagged, or in checked luggage. All valuables necessary for the trip should be on your person at all times, if possible. This includes medications and documentation. We recommend one main bag and a carry-on, per airline guidelines for weight and size.

Labeling

Have all your bags labeled with your name and address clearly marked. Add something to you luggage that is recognizable in the event your bags are misplaced. You may also consider marking your bags with “Enrichment Journeys” for efficiency.

Carry-on items

In many countries, including the US, large liquid containers are not allowed in carry-ons. On the way back into The States, food or agriculture items are prohibited. If you have questions about a certain item, visit www.tsa.gov for a list of items that cannot be packed.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are included as part of your Enrichment Journey. Local representatives will advise you of the departure time from your hotel the night before departure. Generally speaking, arrangements have been made to have you at the airport approximately three hours in advance of departure, though this may vary depending on local circumstances. At the end of the cruise, an airport transfer will also be provided. Please advise your Personal Vacation Manager if you do not require transfer arrangements at the time of booking your Journey.

Cell phones

Some cell phones will work overseas, but incur additional charges for the use. Choose whether you would like to add an international plan by calling your carrier, or consider purchasing a pay-as-you-go phone overseas. However, in some destinations, many smartphones and tablets can pick up wireless Internet for free.

Protecting the Value of Your Travel Investment

Enrichment Journeys offers a comprehensive travel insurance package you can purchase alongside your trip. It eases the mind and lets you cancel your trip for a covered reason up until the departure date with a full refund of the Journey.

The insurance covers a wide variety of incidents, including travel delay, emergency medical services, and even baggage delay. You will also receive a pre-existing medical conditions waiver if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of your initial deposit. For a full list of coverage provided, visit the FAQ section of the website.

Medical Issues and Handicaps

As with any extensive trip abroad, our excursions with Enrichment Journeys will require some physical capabilities, including transfers from cruise ships, walking on cobblestone streets and navigating through some busy cities with guides. Although we encourage all types of travelers to join us, we do ask you are aware of your own physical limitations. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual care to those who may have walkers, wheelchairs or other aids. Enrichment Journeys also cannot accommodate pregnant women past their six month gestation period. Please speak with one of our Personal Vacation Managers to see if certain itineraries are suitable for you and your needs. We are happy to suggest other viable options for you that are more accessible.

Per the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, travelers have the right to be reasonably accommodated in terms of tours in public situations. However, the laws do not apply for trips and outside the United States. So you must let Enrichment Journeys know ahead of time of any physical limitations, including information added to our questionnaire that needs to be filled out by all passengers. Failure to inform Enrichment Journeys of these limitations could result in refusal to participate, whether it be at the airport through the airline, on board the ship or at the accommodations booked.

If you have any sort of prescription medication, this should be a number one priority in packing. Bring extra, just in case. A small medical kit is also advisable for quick access to remedy minor aches and pains.

Briefing sessions

A local host or tour manager will be happy to guide you through the trip and answer all of your questions. Upon arrival to your destination, an Enrichment Journeys representative will meet with the group and go over items such as the daily schedule, weather and local customs.

Hotels

All hotels booked by Enrichment Journeys are held to a high standard of comfort and quality, in accordance to international accommodation standards and rating systems. However, each accommodation varies so you may experience various types of properties throughout your excursions.

Regional Information

eJourney Guide

• Detailed Destination Information
• Day-by-Day Itinerary
• Preparing for Your Trip
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Local Cultural Information
• Recommended Readings
• And so much more!

As always, our friendly and dependable Personal Vacation Managers are committed to assisting you every step of the way.