Why a Visit to France is a Must: Celebrations and So Much More!

The electric energy of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the celebration of 150 years of Impressionism were amazing. But this year, France has even more magic in store. From the long-awaited reopening of iconic landmarks to cultural festivals, historic anniversaries, and thrilling sports events. Thus, this is the year to book that dream trip and a memorable visit to France.

Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, foodie, or sports fan, France in 2025 promises something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.

Grand Re-Openings

Notre-Dame de Paris

After the devasting fire in 2019, Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris reopened lates last year. The recent reopening of Notre Dame’s iconic towers is one of the last remaining steps in the cathedral’s immense reconstruction project. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture, perched along the Seine, will once again welcome visitors to marvel at its breathtaking stained-glass windows, towering spires, and deep spiritual ambiance. It’s a powerful moment in France’s cultural revival.

The Grand Palais Is Back

In spring 2025, the Grand Palais will reopen after an ambitious renovation project. Located off the Champs-Élysées, this architectural gem has long been a symbol of French elegance and creativity. Expect a perfect mix of classic grandeur and modern functionality as it returns to host major exhibitions and events.

A Cézanne Celebration in Aix-en-Provence

Art lovers, rejoice! Aix-en-Provence will honor its most famous son, Paul Cézanne, with a landmark exhibition at the Musée Granet featuring the return of the Pearlman Collection. Visitors can also explore a freshly restored Jas de Bouffan (Cézanne’s family estate), the artist’s reopened studio, and the Bibémus quarries that inspired some of his greatest works.

Culture, History & Heritage

A New Home for Fondation Cartier

Paris’s Fondation Cartier will unveil a brand-new museum designed by acclaimed architect Jean Nouvel. Situated within the Louvre Antiquities space, it will offer an exciting juxtaposition of contemporary art and ancient history.

Caen Celebrates 1,000 Years

The city of Caen in Normandy is turning 1,000 in 2025—and it’s throwing a party from March to December! Expect medieval reenactments, concerts, exhibitions, and special events that dive into the city’s storied past.

Medieval Mystique in Cognac

For the first time ever, visitors to Cognac can explore the Porte Saint-Jacques, the remnants of the city’s medieval walls. It’s a must-see for history lovers and anyone looking to uncover France’s hidden gems.

Sports & Spectacles

Eurogames 2025 in Lyon

France continues to lead with inclusivity by hosting the Eurogames 2025 in Lyon, Europe’s premier LGBTQ+ sports and cultural festival. With competitions, performances, and parties, it’s set to be one of the year’s most dynamic events.

Tour de France & Tour de France Femmes
Lille will host a thrilling stage of the Tour de France, with cyclists racing through its vibrant streets. Vannes, in Brittany, will be the proud starting point for the Tour de France Femmes, showcasing top-tier women’s cycling.

100 Years of Roland-Garros

In 2025, the legendary French Open celebrates its 100th anniversary. This milestone at Roland-Garros is sure to bring a star-studded lineup and extra excitement to one of tennis’s most beloved tournaments.

More Reasons to Visit France in 2025

Even beyond the special events, France remains one of the most rewarding destinations in the world. Here’s why you should go:

1. Food & Wine That Never Disappoints
From buttery croissants in a quiet Parisian café to rich cassoulet in Toulouse or oysters in Brittany, France is a foodie’s paradise. Add a glass of Bordeaux or Champagne, and you’re living the dream.

2. Outdoor Adventures Galore
Love nature? France offers stunning alpine hiking in the French Alps, cycling in the Loire Valley, surfing in Biarritz, and sunbathing along the French Riviera.

3. Art, Architecture & History at Every Corner
Whether you’re wandering the Roman ruins of Nîmes, climbing the steps of Mont-Saint-Michel, or admiring Monet’s water lilies in Giverny, France is one giant open-air museum.

4. Charming Cities & Villages
Each city tells its own story—Paris dazzles, Lyon feeds you, Marseille inspires, and Strasbourg charms. In the countryside, you’ll find quaint medieval villages, vibrant markets, and timeless traditions.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait – Plan Your France Trip Now

France is not just another travel destination — it’s a once-in-a-generation experience. With so many cultural re-openings, historic anniversaries, and new things to explore, it’s the perfect time to dive deeper into the heart of French life.

So grab your passport, brush up on your French, and start planning your next great adventure. France is waiting.

Photo: Pixabay




Top Reasons to Visit France in 2025

2024 has been a remarkable year for France. From the Olympic and ParaOlympic Games to the 150th anniversary of Impressionism. 2025 has lots of exciting experiences to look forward to. Here are some of the top reasons to visit France.

· The reopening of Notre Dame: Notre-Dame de Paris. The iconic Gothic cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is set to reopen this December. In addition, this UNESCO World Heritage site is situated along the Seine River. It will once again welcome visitors, marking a significant milestone in its restoration.  Plus, it allows people to experience its grandeur and spiritual significance anew.

· Reopening of Grand Palais in Paris. Located on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the Grand Palais is an emblem of French art and culture. After extensive renovations, this historic monument will reopen in spring 2025. Hence, it will blend its storied past with modern enhancements to better serve the public and the arts community.

· Cézanne in Aix-en-Provence. 2025 marks a new chapter in celebrating Paul Cézanne in Aix-en-Provence. The Musée Granet will host an international exhibition featuring the return of the Pearlman Collection, with 24 of Cézanne’s masterpieces on display. Therefore, the family home at Jas de Bouffan will be transformed into a new cultural space. Plus, the Cézanne’s studio reopens after extensive renovations. Visitors can also explore the Bibémus quarries, a pivotal site in Cézanne’s creative journey.

Cultural Happenings

· Fondation Cartier’s New Museum. The Fondation Cartier will open its new art museum, designed by Jean Nouvel, in the Louvre Antiquities space.

· Caen Millennium. Normandy’s second-largest city, Caen, will celebrate its 1,000th anniversary from March to December 2025.

·Porte Saint-Jacques in Cognac. For the first time, visitors can access Porte Sant-Jacques, remnants of the city walls dating back to the Middle Ages.

Sports Highlights

· Eurogames 2025 in Lyon. In 2025, Lyon will host the Eurogames, Europe’s premier LGBTQ+ sports and cultural festival. This dynamic event will showcase diverse sports competitions and cultural activities. In addition, the event celebrates inclusivity and sustainability. Be part of this event in Lyon, for a unique blend of athletic excellence and vibrant cultural expression, uniting athletes and artists from across Europe.

· Tour de France in Lille. In 2025, Lille will host an exciting stage of the Tour de France. Cyclists will race through the city’s historic streets and lively neighborhoods, adding to the thrill of this prestigious event.

· Tour de France Femmes in Vannes. The 4th edition of the Tour de France Femmes will kick off in Vannes, Brittany. This event, it’s right after the men’s race, celebrating the best of women’s cycling.

· 100th Anniversary of the French Open (Roland-Garros). On May 24, 1925, the French Open was created in honor of aviator Roland Garros. Thus in 2025, the tournament will celebrate its 100th anniversary as one of the most famous events in the world of tennis.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your next luxury vacation to France.

2024 has been a remarkable year for France. Enjoy reading about the top reasons to visit France in 2025 and enjoy amazing experiences.

Photo: Pixabay




Five Fun Things to Do in Paris, France

Visiting Paris, France has long been a “Bucket List” item for most world travelers. Paris has so much to offer and provides visitors a wide range of both city tours and activities. Often called “The City of Light” due to its stunning boulevards and bridges. Today, there are almost 300 illuminated sites in Paris. For example, churches, hotels, fountains, statues, national buildings and of course monuments.

Yes, the city can get expensive. Yet, there are many free things to do. Can visit some of the beautiful public gardens, like Jardin des Tuileries, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont or Jardin du Luxembourg. In addition, admire the religious architecture of Sacré-Cœur, Saint-Genevieve and Sainte-Chapelle for free. Plus, be sure to see the iconic Moulin Rouge.

There’s no way you’ll get to see all the city’s museums, shops, attractions and districts. Therefore, it is important to plan your own itinerary and experience Paris on your own terms. Yet, don’t miss out on other notable city jewels. These include the Luxembourg Gardens, Musée d’Orsay or Le Marais. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the iconic Champs-Élysées.

With so many options to choose, we are sharing five fun things to do in Paris

Arc de Triomphe

(photo above)
Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the towering Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoléon. The monument honors the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. Interestingly, the impressive arch is the largest of its kind in the world. You will notice several impressive, intricately carved sculptures. Underneath the arch, travelers will find the names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napolean’s Empire. Plus, view names of the generals who fought in them.

Plus, travelers will also find the famous tomb of The Unknown Soldier. The unknown soldier currently buried there is meant to represent all the unidentified or unaccounted for soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The eternal flame lit when the soldier was laid to rest, has not extinguished since. This occurred in the 1920s. In addition, climb to the top of the famous arch and take in the mighty Paris panorama.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Worldwide news covered the devastating fire at the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral. On April 15, 2019, the cathedral sustained major damage. For example, its wooden roof and spire collapsed. As a result, the cathedral remains closed to the public until further notice. Plans are for it to reopen in December 2024. In the meantime, visitors can peruse a new exhibit – “Notre-Dame de Paris: at the heart of the construction site.” This free exhibit highlights the ongoing construction work at the site. In addition, see remains from the fire and works of art from the cathedral.

Similar to the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is definitely a Parisian icon. It sits along the picturesque River Seine. Notre-Dame Cathedral is considered a Gothic masterpiece and considered as one of the best Gothic cathedrals of its kind in the world. Construction of the famous cathedral began in the late 12th century. Yet, final touches were not made until nearly 200 years later.

Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur)

Rising high above Paris, the Sacré-Coeur (meaning “Sacred Heart”) looks more like a white castle than a basilica. It towers over the eclectic neighborhood of Montmartre. This masterpiece is easily recognized by its ornate ivory domes. The basilica’s interior is quite impressive. For example, its ceilings glitter with France’s largest mosaic. Beautifully, it depicts Jesus rising alongside the Virgin Mary and Joan of Arc. Lastly, be sure to take in the stunning, panoramic views from atop the Sacré-Coeur’s outdoor staircase.

Eiffel Tower

Constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World’s Fair), the Eiffel Tower was always meant to be a temporary structure. Gustav Eiffel is chief architect of the Eiffel Tower. A variety of scientific experiments were done on the tower with the hope that any discoveries would help prolong its lifespan.

Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)

Last but not least, the Versailles Palace, is a former seat of power and located 10 miles southwest of Paris in Versailles. Each year, nearly 10 million travelers make the trip from Paris to see Chateau de Versailles. Enjoy all of the gold figurines, dramatic frescoes and cascading crystal chandeliers. Surprisingly, King Louis XIV’s extravagant former residence has pretty humbled beginning. His father, King Louis XIII favored the site for its hunting potential. The original brick and stone lodge was quite modest.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your next luxury vacation. It’s a big world out there, with so much to see and do.

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Incredible Pablo Picasso Art Exhibition at the MuCEM Museum in France

Opened in the summer 2013, the impressive MuCEM museum is holding an awesome, art exhibition about Pablo Picasso. It will display 270 of Picasso’s works. The MuCEM stands for the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. This national museum in Marseille, France first opened in the summer of 2013.

Between April 27 and August 29, 2016 the MuCEM museum exhibition is broken into four different sections. Each of these will mirror the masterpieces of Picasso. The famous artist’s works will be accompanied by various reference-objects from the museum.

This exhibition was a massive undertaking and included contributions and partnerships with many organization and partnership, such as with the Musée National Picasso-Paris. In addition to viewing some of his most famous pieces, there will be other surprises and insights into his life.

Pablo Picasso was born on October 25, 1881 in Spain. He passed away in Mougins, France on April 8, 1973. He was 91 years old. The Spanish artist had many talents. He was a painter, sculpture and ceramist. In addition, many people aren’t aware he was also a playwright and poet. His legendary works will be admired for years to come.

When Albert Camus won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957, we stated in his acceptance speech, “Art obliges the artist not to keep himself apart; it subjects him to the most humble and the most universal truth. That is why true artists scorn nothing.” What a moving and profound quote.

Picasso was influenced by numerous artists over this career. This MuCEM exhibition takes attendees on a magical journey through his art. You’ll discover his interests that turned into his work, such as “Jacqueline with Mantilla” with music, “Blue Acrobat” with the circus and “Bull’s Head” and bullfighting. He was inspired by Marie Cuttoli for textiles, Suzanne and Georges Ramié for ceramics and Paco Durrio for woodworking.

As a true, iconic artist of the 20th century, Pablo Picasso changed culture. His modern works during that era, drew millions of people into the world of fine art.

Robert Hughes was the art critic for TIME magazine. He was quoted, “To say that Pablo Picasso dominated Western art in the 20th century is, by now, the merest commonplace. Before his 50th birthday, the little Spaniard from Malaga had become the very prototype of the modern artist as public figure. No painter before him had had a mass audience in his own lifetime.”

For art lovers and those curious about the fascinating works of Pablo Picasso, be sure to visit the MuCEM museum in Marseille, France. It will be a VIP experience you will always remember.

We can help you plan your trip to Europe and see the Pablo Picasso art exhibition at the MuCEM museum in Marseille, France. Return again to read more art stories in our luxury blog.




Plans For New Versailles Luxury Hotel Continue

The world famous Palace at Versailles in France has housed both kings and queens from 1682 until 1790, during the time of the French Revolution. Now the French city, just outside of Paris will be the location of a new Versailles luxury hotel, although it will likely be years away from actually opening.

First reported by the French newspaper Journal du Dimanche, the Chateau de Versailles announced it had begun plans to open a Versailles luxury hotel. The site will be located on the palace ground’s south-eastern corner.

The first phase of the process is to renovate three buildings on the Versailles palace site that are quite run down. Those three buildings built in the 1680’s are named – Petit Contrôle, Pavilion of the First 100 Steps and the Grand Contrôle. Once completed, the new Versailles luxury hotel will be built within the three buildings from the 17th century.

The luxury hotel will actually be located outside the gates of the famous Versailles palace, but offering spectacular views of Versailles and the surrounding area.

It’s estimated that the initial building renovation will cost between 4 and 7 million Euros or approximately $4.484 to $7.847 million dollars. The luxury hotel will definitely increase tourism revenue

The project will go out for bid and the winner will not only get the large undertaking to build the new Versailles luxury hotel, but will also have the right to operate the hotel for a time period of 60 years.

If you get the chance to ever visit France, be sure to see the impressive Versailles palace. During the French Revolution, the palace of Versailles had all of its furnishings removed. The Tuileries in Paris then became the new royal residence of France.

Louis XVI was the last king you lived in Versailles but fleed during the French Revolution. Condemned to death for treason, Louis XVI then executed on January 21, 1793, ending a mighty reign.

The Château de Versailles was also a big part of world history. It was the location World War I officially ended. The Treaty of Versailles was signed there on June 28, 1919.

Once built, it will be an honor to stay at the Versailles luxury hotel near Paris, France. World famous and years of rich history, you’ll be able to stay on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. The Life of Luxury can help you book your luxury travel reservation to France. Stay in VIP style and enjoy luxury amenities. Come back soon and read our luxury blog.

Photo: Château de Versailles – © EPV / Ch. Milet




Luxurious Cap d’Antibes Villa in France

A visit to the incredible French Riviera is an unforgettable experience. We wanted to share the luxury Cap d’Antibes villa as one of the most luxurious villas you will find to stay in.

The French Riviera awaits and live in VIP style at the Cap d’Antibes Villa in France. This luxury property lied between Cannes and Nice and has 10 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 20 people. The villa has a vast living area of 760 m².

This 16th century, Provencal villa is represented by Carlton International and was recently renovated. It features huge entertainment areas so it’s perfect for those fabulous, French Riviera parties and social gatherings. The villa is perfectly located between the old town of Antibes and a short 100 meters from the scenic beach.

Outdoors, enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens that covers about 3,500 square meters. There’s a gray color mosaic swimming pool (13m X 6m) that has a surrounding security fence.

Indoors, enjoy all the comforts of modern living at Cap d’Antibes. The main level of the villa has 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The deluxe “Galilée” bedroom is air conditioned bedroom and has a double bed. There’s an en-suite shower room with shower, toilet and bidet). The room has both a pool and garden view. The deluxe “Josephine” bedroom is also air conditioned bedroom and has a double bed. This en-suite bathroom comes with a balneo bathtub, shower, WC and bidet). The bedroom has a garden view.

The fabulous Presidential Suite is an independent apartment with two levels. You have independent access separate from the main villa. The suite features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and also offers guests its own kitchen and dining room.

If you dreamed of vacationing in France and seeing the beautiful French Riviera, consider a stay at the luxury Cap d’Antibes Villa in France. We can help plan and book your luxury travel getaway. If you enjoy reading about top travel destinations around the world, keep abreast of the latest travel news with our luxury blog.

Photo: Carlton International




Renowned Chef Gordon Ramsay to Head Up Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa Restaurant

The luxury Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has partnered with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. The restaurateur and respected chef will head up the property’s Le Pressoir d’Argent restaurant.

Prior to closing, Le Pressoir d’Argent was a popular, Michelin-starred restaurant that was run by chef Pascal Nibaudeau. The restaurant was famous for using a lobster press that was one of only five anywhere in the world.

Chef Gordon Ramsay also overseas the Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace in Versailles, which has been awarded two Michelin stars. Born in Scotland but raised in Stratford-upon-Avon, England – Gordon Ramsay has trained with many of the world’s top chefs. Several include: both Marco Pierre White and Albert Roux in London, plus Joël Robuchon and Guy Savoy in France.

Accolades are not foreign to Gordon Ramsay. In London, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay is the city’s longest-running restaurant to received the coveted three Michelin stars. Ramsay is just one of only four chefs to hold three Michelin stars in the UK.

Gordon Ramsay was quoted, “I’m thrilled we are opening our second restaurant in France, following on from the two Michelin-starred Gordon Ramsay au Trianon in Versailles. To open a restaurant in the wine capital of France with its world-class vineyards and glorious regional produce is extremely exciting. Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has an incredible history dating back to 18th century and we are really looking forward to working with the hotel team at this incredible listed property in the heart of the City’s golden triangle.”

rand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa
Photo: Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa

Chef Ramsay plans to develop seasonal dishes to be served at Le Pressoir d’Argent restaurant, utilizing the best, local ingredients. He is known for his delicious dishes that use spices and BBQ-style smoky flavors. We can’t wait to see what gastronomic creations he comes up with. It should be a fine dining experience like no other.

The incredible Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa is located in central Bordeaux, in the south-west area of France. For those who desire pampering and a truly relaxing experience, be sure to try Les Bains de Léa spa. You can choose from various spa treatments using leading, French beauty brand NUXE.

Michel Ohayon is the owner of Grand Hotel de Bordeaux, and commented on the Gordon Ramsey announcement, “Le Pressoir d’Argent at Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has forever been a timeless centerpiece in the Bordeaux community for fine dining. To me it felt most natural for Gordon Ramsay to take part in this project, which we have finalized in order to announce today. We are honored to be one of the two restaurants in France to work with this internationally acclaimed chef, a real sign of the confidence that he grants us.”

Interested in a luxury travel package to France? Contact The Life of Luxury and we can help book all your travel reservations. Consider staying at the elegant Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa. Dine at Le Pressoir d’Argent restaurant and you may actually see renowned chef Gordon Ramsay in person! Follow this luxury blog for interesting luxury travel news.

Photo: Gordon Ramsay Group




Enjoy Magnificent St. Tropez With a Stay at Villa Cap Bastide

St. Tropez is a a Provençal town located in southeastern France. This coastal town comes alive in summer with an endless number of activities that are enjoyed by wealthy tourists and celebrities

You can find supercars racing into the center of St. Tropez and lavish parties with terrific food and fine champagne.

To fully enjoy St. Tropez and stay at a luxury, consider Villa Cap Bastide. To vacation at Villa Cap Bastide provides the unique mix of luxury amenities and a serene family setting. The luxury Villa Cap Bastide is close to the bustling town center in addition to the areas finest beaches, including Tahiti beach which is one of St. Tropez’ most famous private beaches.

As a family property, Villa Cap Bastide offers guests almost 3,000 square meters well landscaped gardens, plus a large but shallow, private swimming pool.

Security and safety is always a concern for traveling families. This luxury villa provides a secure grounds perimeter. This allows children to enjoy the large playground and parents some peace of mind.

Adults can socialize and enjoy the private bar or relax and sit outdoors one of the property’s terraces. Head into St. Tropez for an incredible fine dining experience the party all night long at one of the city’s lively bars.

Live like the rich and famous and enjoy St. Tropez holiday with a stay at the all-inclusive family paradise – Villa Cap Bastide.

To learn more or book a reservation at Villa Cap Bastide, contact The Life of Luxury. We can assist plan your entire St. Tropez vacation. Return soon to read about other premier vacation hot spots in our luxury blog.




Hotel de Rougemont in the Swiss Alps

Hotel de Rougemont is a family-style hotel that can be found in the heart of the alpine village of Rougement in Switzerland. Hotel de Rougemont is scheduled to open this December, 2014.

As the most dramatic new hotel opening in the Swiss Alps this winter season, the gorgeous Hotel de Rougemont is a stylish four-star luxury hotel.

Although the chalet-style exterior of the new Swiss Alps hotel blends in with the traditional village chalets that date back four centuries, the interior of the new hotel is a fresh, hip, modern take on alpine décor.

The interior design consists of pale wood paneling, local stone, marble plus inventive lighting. Hotel de Rougemont will offer guests a total of 33 rooms and suites that are bright with a minimalist look, yet with a touch of mid-century modern.

Hotel de Rougemont - Swiss Alps

For relaxation, Hotel de Rougemont will feature a spa and indoor lap pool. Guest will enjoy a wine bar, large lounge with tapas service, cigar lounge, in addition to a fine dining restaurant.

The boutique hotel and spa can be found only minutes from ski lifts leading to 150 miles of Alpine slopes and endless hours of terrific skiing or snowboarding.

The village Rougement in Switzerland is renowned for its undeniable tranquility plus gentle pace of life.

If you are interested in traveling to Switzerland and would like to stay at the new Hotel de Rougemont, please contact us. One of our experienced luxury travel agents can assist planning and booking your travel itinerary. Read about other new hotels and the latest travel industry news by following this popular luxury blog.




Welcome to the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa During Harvest Season

Ideally located in the center of the world’s largest area of fine wine vineyards, the luxurious Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa welcomes both amateurs and wine lovers to uncover the great wine estates of Bordeaux, France.

Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa is found in the center of the city of Bordeaux, in La Place de La Comédie square that overlooks the historic Le Grand Théâtre.

Bordeaux is in France’s South-West region and known worldwide for its fantastic grape vineyards and fine wine. The annual grape harvest season is the ideal time to experience one of the most crucial steps in the process of wine making.

The Wine Concierge Service at Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has impressive knowledge and strong connections with the various châteaux of the region. This insider knowledge of the local, Bordeaux wine industry can make your trip a memorable one. Hotel guests are provided a rare opportunity to access the world of fine wine, that is unsurpassed in the luxury sector.

The luxury Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa can create bespoke itineraries for its guests who are interested in discovering the secrets of great wines and exploring the wine making process. This allows you to experience the behind-the-scenes of the annual grape harvest and actually includes the hand picking of the grapes.

If you are looking for a fantastic wine tasting experience, then consider visiting Margaux, St-Julien, St-Estèphe, Pauillac, St-Emilion, Pessac-Léognan, and Sauternes. The hotel’s Wine Concierge Service can take care of all the logistics for intimate and private tastings in the various estates and appellations.

Based on this fine wine heritage, the luxury Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux has created a new ‘Wine Package’ available until the end of the year, which includes the following:
• Two nights accommodation for two including daily breakfast at ‘The Bordeaux’, the hotel’s 19th century Belle-Epoque brasserie
• Half day wine tour – Guests will be able to discover and taste wine from renowned estates Saint Emilion or Médoc, where they will learn the art of wine making and wine blending, as well as the secret for aging wine.
• Transfer to and from the estates in a private car
• Free access to the Spa and Fitness Centre
• Free access to broadband Internet and Free Wifi
Pricing for this amazing, French harvest package is €1,252 and excludes the city tax (€1.45 per person per day).

For a wonderful fine dining experience, the hotel offers a gastronomic joy in their Michelin-starred ‘Le Pressoir d’Argent’ restaurant, which is headed by Pascal Nibaudeau;

The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa is committed to providing its guests with unparalleled experiences. It’s ideal location plus high level of expertise in the world of fine wine will make your visit magical.

For additional information or to make a travel reservation to visit Bordeaux, France and and stay at the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, please contact The Life of Luxury. One of our travel concierge specialists will handle all your arrangements.




Luxury Barge Cruising with French Country Waterways

Luxury Barge Cruising with French Country Waterways

French Country Waterways offers luxury barge cruising aboard one of the company’s four luxury barges. This American-owned and operated premier provider offers upscale amenities on all their French cruises.

Your six-night sailing adventure, April through October, includes private tours and wine tastings, French cuisine dining featuring fine wines and French cheeses, private motor coaches and escorted transfers.

Put your feet up on the sundeck, walk or bicycle along canal towpaths, or just relax in your suite designed with private baths and king, queen or twin beds. Sure to make your cruise memorable is the stellar assistance of the crew …. fluent in both English and French, they will provide attentive and knowledgeable service all contributing to making this an unforgettable experience.

The eight-passenger Horizon II journeys through the Upper Loire Valley, known for its network of canals linking Paris to the château country, where many castles and stately manor houses fill the landscape.

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    The eight-passenger Princess, spends April through June in Champagne – where guests explore the Gothic Cathedral of Reims and the cellars Moët & Chandon.

    The 12-passenger Adrienne, luxuriously outfitted with six king suites, serenely follows the narrow 18th-century Canal du Centre and tree-lined Canal de Bourgogne as it makes its way through the beauty of Burgundy’s scenic Côte d’Or wine-growing region.

    The 12-passenger Nenuphar explores picturesque Central Burgundy on the Canal de Bourgogne route between Tanlay and Venarey-les-Laumes.

    2013 barge cruise fares from French Country range from $5,095 to $6,695 per person, double occupancy.

    For detailed cruise information or for information on individual bookings and for charter groups of up to 12 guests, please visit www.fcwl.com or call (800) 222-1236 in the U.S. and Canada and (781) 934-2454 in MA.