DEBBIE'S 70th Birthday CELEBRATION TRIP TO PARIS
FEATURES
HIGHLIGHTS
HOTEL
SIGHTSEEING
MEALS
FLIGHTS
Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, situated in the northern part of the country on the banks of the River Seine. Known as the City of Love and the City of Lights, Paris is renowned for its art, fashion, culture, and history. It is home to some of the world's most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Champs-Élysées, and the Palace of Versailles. Paris is also a hub for gastronomy, with its many cafés, restaurants, and patisseries serving some of the world's finest cuisine. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Paris remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
OVERVIEW
Paris tour offers visitors a chance to explore the enchanting City of Love and immerse themselves in its rich culture, history, and stunning landmarks. Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks that are typically included in Paris tours is the Eiffel Tower. Travelers can choose from a variety of Paris tours, such as the Louvre Museum, the Seine River, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, and the Palace of Versailles. Overall, this tour offers a unique and memorable way to experience the magic of this beautiful city, whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.
Itinerary
Prepare yourself! You are leaving today for Paris to start your Paris explorer tour.
Upon arrival in Paris, claim your bags and proceed towards the arrival hall. Our representative will meet you and assist you with your transfer to the hotel. (Standard check-in time is 3:00 pm)
If you have arrived early, you might like to take a stroll on the streets of Paris
Overnight in Paris
After breakfast, your Paris sightseeing adventure begins with a hotel pick up. Accompanied by a private guide, your tour kicks off as you drive through Paris, soaking in the city's charm from the comfort of your ride. Your first stop is the Arc de Triomphe. Marvel at this grand monument that honors those who fought and died in France. Standing beneath its majestic arches, you'll learn about its historical significance and the detailed sculptures that adorn it. Continue to the Palais Garnier, Paris’s opulent opera house. Admire its ornate façade and elaborate interiors, including the grand staircase, lavish chandeliers, and the stunning ceiling painted by Marc Chagall. Learn about its history and its role in Parisian cultural life. Drive through Place Vendôme, known for its elegant column and luxury boutiques. This square is a symbol of French grandeur, lined with high-end jewelry stores and historic hotels. Visit Place de la Concorde, one of Paris’s largest public squares. Here, you'll see the impressive Egyptian obelisk and the beautiful fountains that mark this historical site, which played a significant role during the French Revolution. Stroll down the Champs-Élysées, Paris’s most famous avenue, flanked by theaters, cafés, and shops. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and the view of the Arc de Triomphe at the opposite end of the avenue. Your tour continues with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Ascend to the 2nd floor by elevator and take in panoramic views of Paris’s skyline. At Madame Brasserie, located on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor, indulge in a gourmet three-course lunch. Savor exquisite French cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the city’s landmarks.
The journey continues with a visit to Paris’s emblem, the Eiffel Tower. Take an elevator ride to the 2nd floor and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city's skyline. Experience the enchantment and romance of Paris from this iconic vantage point. Next, enjoy a gourmet lunch at Madame Brasserie, located on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor. Delight in a three-course meal while soaking up spectacular views of Parisian landmarks. This special experience is ideal for couples, friends, or families wanting to celebrate their time in France. After lunch, you'll be returned to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is yours to explore Paris at your own pace. Consider taking a leisurely stroll along the Seine River. As evening falls, the city takes on a golden hue, with the river reflecting the light. The riverside paths, flanked by notable sites like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower, create a stunning setting for your walk.
Overnight in Paris
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a Parisian café. Enjoy a buttery croissant, a pain au chocolat, or a traditional baguette with a café au lait or fresh orange juice. Find a charming café in neighborhoods like Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or the Latin Quarter. Choose a Parisian neighborhood to explore at your own pace. Each district has its own character: Wander through trendy boutiques, art galleries, and historical sites like the Place des Vosges. Stroll through this bohemian district, visit the Basilica of Sacré-CÅ“ur, and explore the artists' square, Place du Tertre. Discover elegant shops, historic cafés like Café de Flore, and the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. Spend some time shopping or window-shopping along the famous boulevards like the Champs-Élysées or Rue de Rivoli. Explore charming boutiques, luxury stores, or specialty shops.
Overnight in Paris
Enjoy your morning meal, then at approximately 9:30 AM, your day in Paris steeped in Black history begins with a pickup from your hotel. We'll board a bus and start our exploration at the Arc de Triomphe, where your guide reveals the stories of African Americans arriving in Paris during the 1800s. Discover the notable history of Black soldiers in World Wars I and II, and visit the Champs Elysees Mansion, where Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings began their 38-year relationship in 1787.
A brief bus ride takes us to the stunning Parc Monceau, retracing the steps of Frederick Douglass, Dr. W.E.B. Dubois, Henry O. Tanner, and other prominent figures. We'll stand before a monument commemorating France's abolition of the African slave trade, honoring Napoleon's famous Black general and his son, Alexandre Dumas, a renowned French writer. Learn about Toussaint L’Ouverture and Haiti's historic revolt, passing by author Dumas' former residence and the church dedicated to African Saint Augustine, a Catholic Church founder.
Witness Josephine Baker's church funeral at Place de la Madeleine and pause at Place Concorde, once home to the guillotine during the French Revolution, now housing the US Embassy. Explore the African Obelisk, the oldest Parisian monument brought from Luxor in 1831, an astronomical device used at the Temple of Thebes.
Our next stop, the Olympia Concert Hall, hosted legendary African American musicians like Louis Armstrong, Nina Simone, and Ray Charles. Continue to the Opera Garnier, where celebrated Black operatic talents graced the stage.
We'll visit "Little Africa" at Chateau Rouge, experiencing its vibrant outdoor market. Drive through historic Montmartre, once dubbed "The Harlem of Paris," then explore lesser-known corners in the Latin Quarter, Montparnasse, Lower Montmartre, and the Champs Elysées, recalling James Baldwin, Richard Wright, and Diaspora intellectuals.
Relish lunch at La Creole, followed by a visit to the Church of the Black Madonna, housing the Notre Dame de Bonne Délivrance, a significant Black Madonna statue from the 14th century.
Stop for a group photo at Place Josephine Baker in the 14th Arrt before your return to the hotel around 5:30 PM. Spend your evening exploring Paris's charming boulevards and lanes, savoring a café au lait while immersing yourself in the city's sophisticated ambiance.
Spend the evening getting to know your surrounds. Wander through the leafy boulevards and winding lanes of the French capital, stopping for a leisurely café au lait while watching sophisticated Parisians go by.
Add-on – Moulin Rouge Show with Transfers - USD 390 Per person (minimum 15 Pax)
Feast your senses on the vibrant color and charisma of the ‘Féerie’ show at Paris’ iconic Moulin Rouge during an extravagant evening in the City of Light. Take a seat in the atmospheric theater and prepare for a dazzling spectacle of drama, dance and music. See elaborately dressed show girls dominate the stage; marvel at dancers as they perform compelling choreography; and opt to upgrade to include a French feast and fine Champagne before the show starts.
Overnight in Paris
Travel from Paris on this half-day trip to Versailles. Save time with skip-the-line tickets, a convenient return transfer, and an engaging tour of Versailles Palace and its historic rooms and chambers. Upon arrival, access the palace through a separate entrance. Then, discover the opulence, beauty, and history of the palace on an interactive guided tour. During the 90-minute tour, see the State Apartments, the King's Bedroom, and the emblematic Hall of Mirrors. Learn about the main figures of the French monarchy, from King Louis XIV to Marie Antoinette. Hear about the many fascinating historical events that took place in the palace's rooms. After your tour of the palace, take some free time to stroll around the beautiful French Gardens. Enjoy a guided tour of the gardens Finally, hop back on the bus for your journey back to your hotel
Evening get ready to enjoy dinner on-board whilst cruising on the River Seine. Discover Paris, the City of Lights, from the water and see the iconic monuments of Paris illuminated. Climb aboard a panoramic sightseeing boat for a dinner cruise along the River Seine in central Paris. Enjoy an à -la-carte 3-course meal as you take in views of the "City of Lights" at night. Dine in a glassed-in boat and admire the historic quays and iconic monuments that pass by. See the golden dome of Les Invalides, the French Parliament, the former Beaux-Arts railway station of the Musée d’Orsay, and the gothic façade of Notre Dame Cathedral. Compliment your cruise with a 3-course meal complete with optional extras, including Champagne, more aperitifs, and priority seating. Dock back at your starting point with your eyes full of wonder and your belly full of delicious food and drinks.
(Premier service Privileged seating at the front of the boat Glass of champagne as an aperitif and dessert Patience + starter + main course + cheese + dessert of your choice + a bottle of red wine and a bottle of white wine for 4 people )
Post dinner you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Overnight in Paris
Morning meet your guide and visit the Louvre Museum. This iconic masterpiece offers unique insights into each work. Delve into the former residence of the Kings of France, now one of the world's oldest and most visited museums, showcasing art from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century. Follow a curated route through the Louvre's highlights. Experience close encounters with renowned sculptures like the Venus de Milo and The Winged Victory of Samothrace, an iconic Hellenistic statue representing Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. Marvel at the Mona Lisa, the world's most famous Renaissance portrait, whose 1911 theft contributed to its legendary status. Explore both celebrated and lesser-known artworks deserving of admiration. Discover treasures from the Renaissance, ancient Greece, and paintings spanning the 13th to 19th centuries, along with prints from the Royal Collection. Delve into the Louvre Palace's basement to see the foundations of its medieval origins and uncover its rich history. Post tour return back to the hotel and relax
Overnight in Paris
And it’s time to say goodbye! Today you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home. Thank you for spending the time with us.
Accommodation
Hotel Elysees Regencia
Staying at Hotel Elysees Regencia will put you in the heart of Paris, just ten minutes' walk from the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées. The distances between this hotel and the Eiffel Tower are 0.9 mi (1.5 km) and 1.8 mi (2.9 km), respectively. Indulge in massages on-site (at an additional cost) or take advantage of the recreational facilities, which include a fitness facility. This hotel offers additional amenities like babysitting (surcharge), concierge services, and free wireless Internet access. Benefit from the room service offered by the hotel (during certain hours). At the bar or lounge, quench your thirst with your preferred beverage. Every day from 7 AM to 10:30 AM, there is a breakfast buffet accessible for a charge. Business center, speedy check-in, and free newspapers in the lobby are among the services offered.
TOUR PRICE INCLUSIONS
- 06 night’s accommodation in Paris
- Daily breakfast, room taxes, and service charges
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Paris city highlights tour including visit to Eiffel Tower
- Black Paris tour
- Half-day trip to Palace of Versailles
- Visit to Louvre Museum with transfers
- 1 Lunch at Eiffel Tower with 1 Glass of Champagne, and 1 Glass of Wine
- 1 Lunch at La''Creole restaurant
- Dinner Cruise on Seine River including Premiere service
- Services of English speaking tour guide during the sightseeing tours
- All transfers and sightseeing using private vehicle
TOUR PRICE EXCLUSIONS
- Round trip airfare to Paris
- All other meals & other sightseeing or Services
- Gratuities for meals, tourist guides, drivers [USD 8-10 Per person per day]
- Porterage at the hotels
- Travel Insurance and Visa Fee
- Personal expenses such as alcoholic and other beverages, telephone calls, and laundry
- Any other services or Items not mentioned above as included
- Local city taxes EUR 4-7to be paid directly at hotels upon check out
Gallery
PLANNING A TRIP TO FRANCE ?
Language: French is the official language of France, so it's a good idea to learn some basic French phrases before you go. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, but it's always appreciated to try speaking some French.
Currency: The official currency in France is the Euro. You can exchange currency at banks and exchange offices, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Most credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases.
Visa: If you are a US or Canadian citizen traveling to France for tourism or business purposes, you do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows for visa-free travel between 26 European countries, including France.
However, you will need to have a valid passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in France. You may also be asked to provide proof of onward travel and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.
If you are planning to stay in France for longer than 90 days, or if you plan to work or study in France, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa before your trip.
It's always a good idea to check with the French Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date visa requirements and application procedures.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in France, but it's customary to leave a small amount (around 10%) at restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was good.
Etiquette: French culture places a high value on politeness and courtesy. It's important to greet people with "Bonjour" (Good morning) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening), and to say "Merci" (Thank you) and "Au revoir" (Goodbye) when leaving. Also, avoid talking loudly in public places.
Safety: France is generally a safe country, but like any other tourist destination, you should be cautious of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. It's also a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Weather: France has a temperate climate, which means that the weather is generally mild and comfortable throughout most of the year. However, the climate can vary depending on the region and the time of year.
In general, summers (June to August) are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It's the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the cities.
Autumn (September to November) is mild and pleasant, with occasional rain. Temperatures start to drop towards the end of the season, and the leaves change color, making it a beautiful time to visit the countryside.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly, especially in the north, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). However, it can also be a magical time to visit with the festive holiday season in full swing, and some regions offering skiing and winter sports.
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit France, with milder temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. However, it can also be rainy during this time.
Food and Water: France is known for its delicious cuisine and wide variety of food options. French cuisine is diverse and often involves fresh, high-quality ingredients, such as meats, seafood, vegetables, and cheeses. Some popular French dishes include croissants, escargots (snails), coq au vin (chicken cooked in red wine), and quiche Lorraine.
When it comes to drinking water, tap water in France is generally safe to drink. However, some people may prefer to drink bottled water for taste or personal preference. Bottled water is widely available in France and can be found at grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants.
Time Zone: France is located in Central European Time (CET) or UTC+1, which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). However, during daylight saving time, which starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October, France observes Central European Summer Time (CEST) or UTC+2, which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. So, it's important to adjust your clock accordingly if you're traveling to France during the daylight saving time period.
Electricity: In France, the standard voltage is 230 volts and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets used in France are type E sockets, which have two round pins and a hole for the socket's grounding pin.
If you're traveling from a country with a different voltage or socket type, you may need to bring a voltage converter or plug adapter to use your electronic devices. Many modern electronics, such as laptops and smartphones, have built-in voltage converters and can be used in France with just a plug adapter. However, it's always a good idea to check the specifications of your devices before traveling.
Transportation: France has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, metros, and trains. Taxis are also widely available but can be expensive. It's also a great idea to walk or bike around the cities, as many attractions are within walking distance.
Payment Policy
Deposit: US$ 500 per person [Non-refundable / Non-transferable]
Booking date: 15th Sep 2024
50% Deposit: 18th Apr 2025
Full Balance: 2nd Jul 2025
(Once the deposit is paid, the travelers can then pay any amount on any date. Travelers to ensure that the payment deadlines are met as above)
Insurance Information
We consider adequate travel insurance to be essential. Travel insurance is widely available to purchase. It is the personal responsibility of each traveler to ensure that they have adequate travel insurance coverage. Please read the policy details carefully. It is each traveler’s personal responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover purchased is suitable and adequate for their particular needs. Voyages Hub will not be responsible or liable for any consequence of any nature arising from the failure to comply with the responsibility of providing adequate travel insurance cover.
Please contact Jean Freeman for your Travel Insurance Needs
Please refer to the Get Away Friends Booking Agreement. Your booking and payment constitute acceptance of those terms.
https://bkupwp.voyageshub.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Get-Away-Friends-Booking-Agreement.pdf
Cancellation Policy
- Starting from the booking date until April 18, 2025, a cancellation will incur a $500 per person non-refundable/non-transferable deposit fee plus any interruption insurance costs if bought.
- From April 19, 2025 to July 2, 2025, canceling will result in cancellation of 50% of the tour price
- From July, 3, 2025 to September 30, 2025, canceling will result in the full tour price being charged as cancellation with no possibility of a refund.
Note:
A person becoming single because of the roommate’s cancellation must pay the single supplement
All payment cut-off dates are firm, and missing deadlines without approved extensions will result in cancellations without refunds being offered.
PLEASE NOTE
Voyages Hub reserves the right to levy a surcharge commensurate to the fuel increase at the time of operation of this movement.
REVIEW
We recently took a tour of Paris with Voyages Hub and it was an incredible experience. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the city's history and culture, and we learned so much about Paris in just a few hours. The tour was well-organized and efficient, and we were able to see all of the major landmarks without feeling rushed. Highly recommend
Our Paris tour with Voyages Hub was one of the highlights of our trip. Our guide was friendly and engaging, and had a great sense of humor. He made the tour fun and interactive, and we felt like we were seeing the city through the eyes of a local. The tour was also a great value for the price, and we felt like we got more than our money's worth
If you're looking for a comprehensive tour of Paris, look no further than Voyages Hub. We took their tour recently and were blown away by the amount of information we received about the city's history, culture, and architecture. Our guide was passionate and knowledgeable, and made the tour both educational and entertaining. Would definitely recommend
Voyages Hub's Paris tour was one of the best tours we've ever taken. Our guide was fantastic, and was able to answer all of our questions about the city. The tour was also well-paced, and we had plenty of time to take photos and explore each landmark. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Paris
We had an amazing experience on our Paris tour with Voyages Hub. The tour was well-organized and efficient, and our guide was friendly and knowledgeable. We learned so much about the city's history and culture, and were able to see all of the major landmarks without feeling rushed. Would definitely book with Voyages Hub again in the future