For those travelers who were fortunate enough to have visited France, you know, of course, this magnificent country is more than just Paris. In fact, France is as diverse as any country in Europe. The Normandy region of northwestern France is a beautiful, peaceful and friendly section of the country that just so happens to have a very marvelous river that matches all these same endearing qualities.
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This area of France is home to beautiful little fishing ports, like Honfleur, and the famous coastal tourist towns of St. Malo, Deauville and Trouville. Normandy boasts of countless castles and chateaus, the religious pilgrimage sites of Mont St. Michel and Lisieux, well-tended horse ranches, as well as, significant apple orchards that supply the tasty raw materials needed to produce the region’s famous cider, Calvados brandy and fruit preserves.
The Normandy coastline north of Caen was the site of one of the most famous battles in world history when an expeditionary force of Americans, Brits, Canadians, and many other nationalities, gave their lives on June 6, 1944 in order to liberate France from the Nazis. In Normandy, Americans are always treated as esteemed guests and honored for their heroic sacrifices during the DDay invasion and the subsequent battles fought throughout France.
The Seine River is also the shipping gateway from the Atlantic Ocean to the inland port city of Rouen where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in the 14th century, and where Monet created a series of paintings of the city’s cathedral. Rouen is an ideal place for strolling around the city center to admire the unique architecture (half-timbered houses), the fascinating antique shops located around the cathedral and the landmark Renaissance clock found on the Rue du Gros-Horolge.
Further east on the Seine River, we discover towns and villages where impressionist artists lived and painted. At Giverny, just outside of Vernon, Monet’s house and gardens was an inspiration to an entire generation of painters. Now, it is home to one of the most famous museums in France.
Finally, what is Paris without the Seine River, and vice versa? It is a city without peers and an acknowledged mecca for excellent food, famous wine, world-class museums and the fine arts. Paris, let it be told, is also a magnet for hopeless romantics of all ages from around the world. In my opinion, you have not truly lived until you have experienced Paris on an intimate basis.
We invite you to join us on a Seine River cruise that is best described as enlightening, entertaining and truly an opportunity to experience memories that will last you a lifetime.
