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Frequently Asked Questions

If you don’t find the answer to your tour-related question(s) below, please contact me. Find information about travel to and around Provence on my Travel Arrangements page.

Before My Trip

Do I need a visa or a passport?

All you need to get into France is a passport. Remember to check the expiration date to make sure it’s still valid within 6 months of travel.  

How can I pay for my tour?

Zelle, Stripe, PayPal, wire & US bank check are all options. Processing fees will be added for credit card payments.   If you wish to pay by wire or check, please contact me for bank and address information.

What’s included in the tour package price?

Prices are quoted either per person (for group tours) or per party (for private reservations). If you are a solo traveler, there may be a single supplemental fee for your room.

  • Accommodation
  • Transfer to/from Marseille airport or Avignon train station
  • Breakfast every day
  • Lunch and dinner on the itinerary – unless noted “on your own”
  • Local ground transportation
  • Admission to attractions mentioned on itinerary
  • Wines at meals (other drinks are extra)
  • Customized itinerary sent before your trip to help you immerse into the culture even before departure.
  • Me – your host, guide, translator and ticket to an authentic and hassle free trip.
What’s not included?
  • Airfare
  • Train fare
  • Meals noted “on your own”
  • Personal expenses
  • Last minute excursions added on to itinerary
  • Trip insurance
Should I exchange currency before my departure?

ATMs are common so it’s not a problem to get some cash for your spending money once in France. If you don’t already have one, you may want to get a credit card that does not have a foreign transaction fee. It is also advisable to travel with two credit cards in case one gets blocked by your bank security.  Please note that banks in France do not handle cash (you cannot go into the bank and give your dollars in exchange for euros).

What will the weather be like?

There is a lot of sunshine in Provence but do come prepared for those days when the temperature drops and the wind comes up. The region is known for a strong wind (the Mistral) that calls for jackets and scarfs – or warm coats if traveling during the winter months.

How should I pack?

With the airline limitations today on baggage you are only allowed one carry-on and one checked bag. Remember to pack a jacket and sweater for the cooler mornings and evenings and also throw in something for rain protection. Comfortable shoes are a must as the tours require walking and often on cobblestone streets or uneven ground.  Do your best to not overpack.  Time after time I hear people say they wish they had packed lighter to avoid the hassle of heavy luggage.  

During My Trip

How many other people will be on my small group tour?

Small group tours will have between 5 and 8 participants. Private parties are between 2 and 7 participants. 

What type of villa/house should I expect?

When choosing A Week in Provence – custom tour you may decide to rent a villa.  I recommend Provence Holidays for finding your dream villa.  The Luberon Region or Alpilles region are central bases for your exploring.  

What type of accommodations will I have if I don’t stay in a villa/house?

In your Pre-Reservation form, you will decide what type of accommodations (B&B, Boutique, Spa, Country Resort). I will research the availabilities for you in my list of favorite places for my clients.

What role does my tour guide/chauffeur have during our trip?

I ensure all the details of your trip before departure and during your time in Provence.  Traveling with your personal guide and chauffeur makes you feel like a part of the culture and not just a tourist.  Your restaurant experiences will be sometimes on your own, sometimes with me.