UN VOYAGE SENTIMENTAL

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Wednesday June 10: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Thursday June 11: Lourdes

Arrive in Toulouse, meet your Encore Tour Manager and transfer to Lourdes for check-in at your comfortable hotel. The afternoon is yours to acquaint yourself with your surroundings, and your tour manager is available to conduct an introductory walking tour this afternoon. Dinner at local restaurant (D)

Day 3, Friday June 12: Lourdes

Today's sightseeing of the area includes the fortified castle and the Pyrenean Museum, documenting the region's traditions and arts. A visit to the Sanctuaries, including the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is truly a highlight of your stay here. This evening, participate in a mass service at Basilique Notre Dame du Rosaire (pending approval). (B,D)

Day 4, Saturday June 13: Loire Valley

Travel to the Loire Valley. Check into your next hotel and begin to explore this quaint region of France with your Tour Manager. Enjoy dinner on your own. (B)

Day 5, Sunday June 14: Loire Valley

Today you will visit some of the magnificent châteaux of the Loire Valley. Journey back in time to the Renaissance during your stop at Chenonceau, the château of six women, which is built over the Cher River. Tour through the incredible hunting lodge of Francois I, Chambord and see its famous double spiral staircase. This afternoon, continue to Blois where you will perform your debut concert at a local Chateau as part of an exchange with a local ensemble! (B,D)

Day 6, Monday June 15: Normandy Area

Morning drive to St. Malo for lunch on your own. Explore the citadel and continue to the awe-inspiring island monastery of Mont St. Michel. This medieval abbey and village are perched atop a rocky island, and are regularly surrounded by water at high tides. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight. (B)

Day 7, Tuesday June 16: Normandy Area

Spend the day remembering an important part of the history of France and the US when you visit the D-day beaches. Depart for Arromanches, where you can see traces of the vast artificial harbor built for the 1944 D-Day invasion that liberated France. Then, visit the American War Cemetery at St. Laurent, overlooking Omaha Beach. An informal performance at the American Cemetery may be possible, an especially moving experience. Visit the Caen Peace Memorial which is a touching tribute to the war and the Holocaust. (B)

Day 8, Wednesday June 17: Paris

Drive through the French countryside, on your way to the City of Light! On the way, stop in Giverny to visit Claude Monet's house and gardens. Here you'll understand where he got his inspiration for many of his famous paintings. (B)

Day 9, Thursday June 18: Paris

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Louis XIV's Palace at Versailles, including the Hall of Mirrors. Next drive to Chartres Cathedral, the best-known example of Gothic architecture and famous for its precious stained glass windows. A recital singing opportunity may be possible today at Chartres Cathedral. Return to Paris and enjoy dinner on your own. (B)

Day 10, Friday June 19: Paris

Discover the major sites of Paris this morning during a guided city sightseeing tour. See the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe. In the afternoon, rehearse and perform your final concert at a local venue, such as La Madeleine! This evening, celebrate your successful performance tour of France with a special farewell dinner together. (B,D)

Day 11, Saturday June 20: Departure

Transfer to the airport for return flight to the United States. (B)