Every other year or so, our family travel together to Europe. We all get along very nicely. Together, we’ve been to so many incredible destinations. Giselle, my mother, is the Leader. She has a great talent for recognizing beauty, She is a very special Lady. My wife and companion of 25 years, Debbie is the master organizer. My sister, three kids Stefan, Sebastian and Nicholas the twins and my brother in law Manny always bring life to the party. My cousins from Montreal, Pierre, Joanne and their daughter Chloe always game for anything. We each bring an element that makes our traveling experience together so special.
We landed in Bordeaux on a connecting flight from Miami and drove more then three hours to our first destination. We had found this chateau online with no idea on what to expect. You can’t imagine our surprise when we first arrived. What a sight! The renting of a villa or a chateau makes a lot of sense if you can put together a group of a minimum of ten compatible people. We rent cars and make day trips from where we reside. The effective cost per person is an incredible value when compared to staying in a luxurious hotel.
Debbie and I enjoying the scenery in Roque de Cageac. You see the Chateau we rented in the background. Part of our ritual everyday, we walk down to the village’s baker for a croissant. Little things in life make it so beautiful.
A Balloon ride over the winding Dordogne River. Let the winds of this enchanting region decide where to take us. A bottle of Champagne, maybe two, ends our little escapade nicely, thank you very much!
The second Chateau we rented near Bergerac and Perigueux. A little away from everything in the country side. But we did not mind given the majestic sight we enjoyed.
St Emilion was about two hours away. We were there three times. We kept running out of wine! My buddy Pierre, a good driver, always ready for a new experience.
We had a fabulous time at the market in Sarlat. If you enjoy food like we do, you will treasure the herbs, cheeses, spices and all kind of good foods you will find there. That is one of the great benefits of renting a villa with your own kitchen.
I highly recommend this way of traveling. We ‘ve rented villas and chateaux in Mexico, Provence, Tuscany, Umbria, Amalfi coast, Spain. Next year we’re planning for Valle de la Loire. Do not hesitate to contact me if you’d like some recommendations or tips. I will be glad to share and oblige.