About This Journey

If it is romanticism, grandeur, and epicurean delights you crave, then travel to the heart of France to explore the rich cradle of French history that is the Loire Valley. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this river valley is sprinkled with vineyards, gardens, and fields; it is no wonder that aristocrats and artists have come to make this beautiful land their residence for centuries. Begin your Journey in Paris with a starlight dinner cruise along the Seine to put you in the “joie de vivre” spirit before heading south to your home base in the city of Tours. From here, each day you will encounter the opulent chateaux and noble states that sprinkle the landscape. From the Royal Chateau de Blois, home to 7 French kings and where Joan of Arc was blessed before battle, to the Chateau de Chenonceau, iconic for its renaissance gallery spanning the river below it. Enjoy the bucolic scenery and a tasting of the region’s celebrated wines while cruising on the peaceful Cher river. Roll up your sleeves for a lesson in local cuisine with a cooking class experience. Tour the fairytale castle rumored to have inspired Charles Perrault to write Sleeping Beauty, and spend the afternoon wandering the lush Villandry Gardens to see why they call this region the “Garden of France”. We will explore the Chateau du Clos Luce, residence of Leonardo da Vinci in his final years, and have free time to discover the picturesque village of Amboise. Partake in a winetasting in Vouvray, a region known for its Chenin blanc and sparkling varieties. On your last day, an exclusive experience awaits you at a chateau where the proud owners will host you for a farewell lunch. You will then fly to Barcelona and embark the Celebrity Apex for a relaxing transatlantic cruise home, no doubt dreaming of the glistening banquet halls, manicured gardens, delicious wines, and soaring spires of the Loire Valley.

Visits: Paris, France; Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Spain; Gibraltar, United Kingdom; Ponta Delgada, Azores; King’s Warf, Bermuda; Nassau, Bahamas; Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; North America; Celebrity Apex; Culinary, 34766, Europe

Included Features

• International airfare, transfers and baggage handling
• 7-night pre-cruise land program in France and Spain
  • Paris, France: 1-night hotel stay
    • Welcome Seine Dinner Cruise
  • Tours, France: 5-night hotel stay
    • Full-day tour to Blois Chateau and Tours walking tour
    • Full-day tour of Chenonceau, wine tasting cruise and French cooking class
    • Full-day tour of Chateau d’Usee and Villandry Gardens
    • Full-day tour of Amboise, wine tasting in Vouvray
    • Full-day tour of Chateau de Rivau and Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau
  • Barcelona, Spain: 1-night hotel stay
• Tour Leader throughout France pre-cruise land program and Local Tour Hosts during included tours
• Most meals while on tour (see itinerary highlights) and all meals while onboard
• 13-night sailing aboard Celebrity Apex
  • 10% Off Shore Excursions (see “Special Offers”)
  • Drinks, Wi-Fi and Tips are All Included on Celebrity Cruises

• Special Offer for Journeys on Celebrity Cruises—Ends 12/5!
  • Sail with up to $2,050 Onboard Credit, up to $650 Off per stateroom and up to a $200 Visa Gift Card with Exclusive Tips on 2024 Sailings + Drinks and Wi-Fi—All Included. Learn More ➤

What to Expect on Your Trip

Pacing

Most days during the land portion will include full-day tours. The overall pace is rather quick, as there is much to see in these regions, however there is a healthy mix of both visits to historical sites and time to enjoy the landscape and scenery. Most days include two meals, allowing the third meal to be at your leisure. All hotels will have a restaurant on property where you may dine, then have the rest of the evening to relax. 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 moderate to active and includes a considerable amount of walking. In Loire Valley, many places visited are smaller towns with cobblestone streets. Roads and walkways on inclines could transform a short walk into a strenuous one.

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. Wheelchair access at many sites is limited to extremely limited. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed. A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program. 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. 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 entire Loire Valley was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the region’s significance in French history and culture. 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

Included 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 $50 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $50 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.

Transportation while on tour:

Paris – Tours: 3-hour Coach

Paris – Barcelona: 2-hour Flight

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

Special Offer for Journeys on Celebrity Cruises—Ends 12/5!

All guests must choose the same package type. View Celebrity Terms and Conditions. Offer expires Dec 5, 2023 or when sold out.

2-night Paris Extension (pre-cruise)

Although everyone on the Enrichment Journey will fly into the Paris airport, the itinerary does not include any time in the city other than the first night. With this optional extension you will arrive to Paris 2 days early and stay in the city, giving you time to explore Paris on your own before the start of the Enrichment Journey program. Note: tours are not included. Price of $499 per person, based on double occupancy, includes:

• 2-night hotel accommodations in Paris with daily breakfast
• Private transfer from ship to hotel and hotel to airport

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.

Oceania Hotel De L’Univers

5 Boulevard Heurteloup, 37000, Tours, France

Telephone: + 33 02 47 05 37 12

In a lavish “Grand hotel” spirit, this unique establishment, redolent of history, has successfully retained its character, right in the center of Tours. Opposite the town hall, this 4-star hotel is ready to welcome you following the creation of a spa and the complete renovation of its common areas and 91 rooms, which perfectly blend tradition, design and modernity: high ceilings, warm colours, some with hydrotherapy baths. The restaurant has also been fully refurbished. Everything has been done with the goal of conserving and showcasing the authenticity and charm of the building, with the addition of deft touches of color and elegance. The spa and well-being area boasts a superb stainless steel swimming pool that places the accent firmly on modernity. The Jacuzzi, hammam and fitness room are perfect for a break that blends relaxation and well-being. The Oceania L’Univers Tours hotel and restaurant is one those historic hotels that’s deeply marked by the illustrious figures who have stayed here, to whom the hotel pays homage with an impressive gallery of portraits overhanging the immense lobby. Thanks to the new colors, materials, furniture and facilities, this hotel will offer you a truly remarkable level of comfort during your stay in Tours.

Negresco Princess Hotel

Roger de Lluria 16-18, 08010 Barcelona, Spain

Telephone: +34 932 150 052

Just steps from Plaça Urquinaona, Plaça Catalunya and Passeig de Gracia. Hotel Negresco Princess’ privileged location makes it the perfect choice for visiting Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s Cathedral, the Gothic Quarter, La Pedrera, Casa Batlló and shopping at the best boutiques on Passeig de Gràcia. Whether from the avant-garde atrium, one of the 128 welcoming rooms, relaxation area, gym or terrace with privileged views of the whole city, a solarium and infinity pool, the hotel is the perfect base for discovering all of Barcelona’s secrets. Plus the great food at Nesgresco Restaurant on the ground floor and La Terrazza by Bobby’s on the seventh floor. Cool and cosmopolitan, Hotel Negresco features a free minibar in every room and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

Celebrity Apex

Cruise Line: Celebrity

Since its inception in 1989, Celebrity has held true to its original commitment of taking the very best aspects of classic, elegant cruising and updating them to reflect current lifestyles. In 1997, they merged with Royal Caribbean International to form Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. What sets Celebrity apart from other vacation choices today is the cruise line’s passionate dedication to providing guests with a cruise experience that embodies modern luxury. This has become the definition of Celebrity Cruises and has set the worldwide standard for today’s expression of what first made cruising famous—high quality, superior design, spacious accommodations, grand style, attentive service and exceptional cuisine. Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of contemporary spaces that are at once coolly sophisticated and warmly inviting. Where the culinary experience is influenced by global cuisines and designed by their Michelin-starred chef. Where their staff provides seamless and intuitive service that’s both personal and unobtrusive. Where everything is designed to provide an unparalleled Relaxed Luxury^sm resort at sea experience. Celebrity’s 15 award-winning ships offer unique experiences in more than 300 destinations on all seven continents.

Ship: Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Apex^SM is the second of four sister Edge Class Ships and contains many unique features and a modern design unseen on any other ship currently at sea. The ship’s design is beautiful and streamlined with the outside spaces designed by architect Tom Wright and interior design by Kelly Hoppen. Some of the most exciting innovations and updates include the Rooftop Garden, the Adults-only Solarium, the Magic Carpet and the Infinite Verandas^SM.

The Magic Carpet is a tennis court-sized sliding deck that allows for easy embarkation and debarkation for tendering and also serves as a viewpoint and outdoor bar with live music at night. The Infinite Verandas^SM allow you to take advantage of your entire veranda stateroom, inside and out. At the touch of a button, your veranda doors will completely fold out of the way, allowing you a full view out over the water. You also have the option to keep the veranda doors open, but enclose the glass balcony, turning the railing into a floor-to-ceiling window.

The Celebrity Apex^SM was designed to change the way you experience the world, and the culinary offerings don’t fall short of this either. Enjoy 29 unique food and beverage experiences crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. Your vacation time is precious. Time aboard Celebrity Apex will make the most of it. Celebrity Apex is sailing with Starlink—the world’s most advanced broadband satellite internet—to bring you high-speed connectivity for a better onboard experience.

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.