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Here are a selection or the comments we have received from clients

Bill Frink, California, USA

John, your tour and trip planning exceeded our expectations. Particularly for me, who has a difficult time trusting anyone in the travel business. I have worked with Travel agents before who claim to know an area, only to find that they want to book things that follow there commissions, rather than my desires. You listened to our interest and catered a tour for us allowing us plenty of flexibility in our agenda. You have a new faithful following in both Traci and myself. Thank you, Bill (Provence holiday, October)

Pauline HOWLAND, San Francisco, USA

We all had a great time, thanks to your expertise and great taste. I cant figure out why the French aren't 200 pounds, we had the most wonderful food everywhere we went and of course great wine with every meal. The best meal was at Auberge la Fontaine, it was sensational! (and we are tough critics used to great San Francisco restaurants), we said Hi to Christian from you. I wish you also did Italy as I was not that happy with the travel agent I had, I was very impressed with you itinerary booklet it made it very easy to find the hotels and towns. Thanks again for helping us to see France "the French way" (South of France tour, June)

Garry and Jeanette Rice, Auckland, NZ

Just a short note to again pass on our thanks and appreciation for the wonderful trip we had with you in September

We enjoyed so much our (escorted) tour in Provence with you in September that this year we brought along our friends. We feel that the personalised tour that you provide for 6-8 persons is the way to appreciate and discover the true joys of town and village life in the south of France.

We appreciated the leisurely pace of the tour which enabled us to absorb the history and scenery without having to rush. Also some of your little surprises such as wine and cheese at St Sixte Chapel to watch the sunset at Eygalières and lunch with the Michelles’ at their lavender farm.

John we can’t wait to do our next tour with you. (In-DepthProvence, September)

Kathy VERONDA, Illinois, USA

I thought the tour of Provence was lovely and thoroughly enjoyed the company of the five New Zealanders, the Kornegays, and Michael Paramor. Thank you again for the lovely trip. (In-Depth Provence escorted tour, June)

David Chalmers, Auckland NZ

Michael Paramor, our guide, looked after us very well and the fact that he is so completely bi-lingual gave him a very special ability to explain the way things work, and the way people think in France. The accommodation we had in all venues was excellent. We really appreciated the way that you made sure that we got full value in every way. It was a great trip and thank you for your planning! (In-Depth Provence tour, May)

Rodney LEWIS, Auckland, NZ

In September-October, my wife and I, together with two other couples, spent twelve days with John Reese, travelling in Provence and the Cote d’Azur. The tour was so constructed that our various interests and tastes were catered for; no easy task to reconcile these, but one accomplished with unfailing tact, good humour and courtesy, by John.

From the Cistercian Abbabye de Thoronet, where we were fortunate enough, in the splendid acoustics of the chapel, to hear some superb singing, to the sophistication of St Tropez; from the peace and seclusion of Eygalières, to sailing a 40ft yacht along the coast; from a memorable picnic at Chateauneuf du Pape, to an equally memorable dinner at St Remy, the “French Way’ experience was an enjoyable one. An appreciated aspect was that we got enough exercise, a factor which seems to be overlooked on many tours. Finally, John was not only a charming and considerate host, but also thoroughly professional and a safe driver in whom we had every confidence. I recommend “France - The French Way” and commend to any prospective client its principal, John Reese.

Richard and Jillian GILBERD, Wanganui, NZ

We could not have asked for a better guide than Mike Paramor. We quickly built up a rapport and enjoyed his company very much. His knowledge of history and the area is remarkable. In no way could we have found for ourselves the interesting places and learnt so much without Mike’s help. May he continue guiding for some years yet! We shall continue to pass on the word about your good work and your excellent organisation. (In-Depth Provence Guided Tour, June)

Roger and Nan Macfarlane, Parnassus, NZ

Just a note to say how we revelled in the holiday in Provence, and to thank you for your immaculate organisation. We thoroughly enjoyed Michael’s company and his vast knowledge. (In-Depth Provence, June)

Katie Gorrie, Toronto, Canada

I just wanted to write to thank you for all you did for us regarding our trip to France. Every aspect of your assistance and adjenda was perfect! We all thank you particularly for your insistance that we visit Cassis... it was sensational!! It is a delight to deal with someone who does what they do so well and with such enthusiasm! I will recommend you to anyone I hear is planning a trip to France. Thanks again for making ours so special.

James and Allison CLELAND, Rochester, NY

Well we are back and wanted to thank you so much for helping to make our honeymoon so fantastic. We had a wonderful time, our favorite was Clos St Vincent, Francoise was a blast. The whole vacation was great - the Restaurant recommendations were all great and your tours were excellent. Provence May)

Alastair WILKINSON, Suva, Fiji

We had a thoroughly enjoyable time at Lac d’Annecy, absolutely beautiful place. We followed your tour and also found it stunning. Spent a day in and around Chamonix and had a lovely half day walk in the alps.

Frank Herrick, California, USA

Just want to say we had a great trip 'trundling' through the beautiful towns and countryside in Provence with Michael. He did a good job educating us and keeping everyone happy, including himself, which made an unforgettable trip. (In-Depth Provence escorted tour, May)

Liz Smith, Auckland, NZ

Just a quick note to say thanks for putting us on to Christine & Bernard at Chateau des Tertres - what a fabulous place. We had such a fantastic time - I must admit to spending more time on the front lawn with a bottle of wine and cheese as opposed to visiting Chateaux, but what the hell. A good excuse to go back again! Your itineraries were fantastic as well - your extra effort in putting these together really made the trip.

Somerford TEAGLE, New Zealand

A short note to thankyou for arranging our visit to Paris, Beaune, Avignon last month. Paris was as lovely as ever, Beaune was stunning, Avignon was superb and Gordes was just beyond superlatives. All your arrangements worked perfectly - our hotels were delightful and your directions and guidance - including where to buy Provencal fabrics - were spot-on. Very many thanks for all your patience and assistance. (Paris, Burgundy, Provence, June)

Sarah Craig, London

I want to thank you for helping to make a great holiday for us. Every place we stayed was wonderful and every restaurant we tried from your list of recommendations was a success. I particularly enjoyed our stay in the Luberon, the countryside and the hotel itself were just fantastic. Breakfast on our patio and dinner outside in the courtyard. Not to mention a beautiful swimming pool and hardly ever anybody else around. (Bastide des 5) We bought a fair amount of wine following wine tastings and a tour. We also ate like kings, all the hotels had wonderful restaurants but I think the Chateau Gilly was exceptional.

Ian & Barbara Goodall, Auckland, NZ

Thank you for your work in organising our accommodation and travel arrangements for our recent holiday in France. We had a wonderful time and in particular loved our time in Provence. Your suggestions in your itinerary booklet were excellent. We loved Eygalieres and St Remy and would love to return to explore the area again sometime. We spent one day on your "Roman Tour" trip and saw things we probably would not have otherwise. We also enjoyed the fishing village atmosphere at Villafranche-sur-Mer and we were pleased to be slightly away from the hustle and bustle of big city Nice. We now know why you said that one week was not enough in the South of France - we will definitely return. Thanks once again 

Liz Shaw, Wanganui, New Zealand

We had an absolutely super barging week on the Baise. Thank you for all your help and recommendations - having the penichette with a flying bridge was ideal as the weather was superb. The villages and towns along the Baise were enchanting and as you advised doing an 'up and back' had enormous advantages and we still didn't manage to see as much as we would have liked so will just have to do it all again! Thank you for arranging a delightful and truly relaxing holiday. Please feel free to use any of this email on your web site and if you have clients considering the Baise who would like to chat about it with us please give them our contact details. (Canal Boating, September)

Oliver Chapman, Queenstown, NZ

The villa at Caromb was splendid and we did enjoy exploring countryside and those beautiful villages all with something special to titivate our minds. (Ref: CAR129, Provence)

Kevin Were, NZ

We enjoyed our stay at the Hotel Danemark, thank you. The staff were friendly and helpful and the location was excellent. The room was fine and the breakfast was very good.

Martin & Marcie Tate, Virginia, USA

We returned last evening from our trip, just wanted to touch base with you about Caromb. I must tell you that we had an absolutely wonderful time. The weather was a little chillier than we liked, but we just bundelled up and had a ball. Your suggested routes were very helpful as were the editorial comments that you had added in between. I definetly want to go back to that region. We found everyone very helpful and with the exception of a couple of cabbies in Paris we could not have asked for a more hospitable bunch of folks. You did a fine job in directing and organizing our trip. Thank you so very much for your help. Lets keep in touch.

Greg Lee, Sydney, Australia

It is great to know that there are still some companies in the world that have integrity. Please feel free to use me as a testimonial of a satisfied customer any time you choose.

Jane Wright, Auckland NZ

We had the most marvellous time in Paris (Hotel Dauphine St Germain) and Villefranche....mainly thanks to you! Both of our hotels were just wonderful and in the very best of locations. We only wish we could have spent longer there! I will have no hesitation in recommending your services to friends who are on their way to France.

Yvonne RYDIN, London, UK

Just to let you know that the holiday in Abbesses was 'fantastique'. The flat was great; not as small as we expected from your description! All went smoothly. (Paris apartment, July)

Sue and Barry Geddes, Christchurch, NZ

We have now returned home after a great holiday in London, England, Paris and France. Only one regret, that we didn't know about you before we tried to organise our French holiday. We have to tell you that the one hotel you organised for us, the Villa Pantheon, was brilliant. It seems to be in the final stages of a redecoration which is world class. The staff were very helpful, the location was perfect for our 8 hours a day walking, the room was one of the largest European hotel rooms we have ever experienced and the breakfast had to be seen and tasted to be believed. Every conceivable breakfast food was available and the cooked options were superb. Again, the staff in the intimate breakfast restaurant were just so helpful and efficient. (Paris hotel, June)

Wendy AKIN, Texas, USA

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO ARRANGE OUR WONDERFUL TRIP TO FRANCE. BOTH THE HOUSE IN PROVENCE (VEN111) AND THE APARTMENT IN PARIS (LACAPEDE) WERE REALLY MUCH NICER THAN YOU PROMISED. WE LOVED THE NEIGHBORHOOD AROUND RUE LACEPEDE, SPECIALLY THE MARKET STREET, MOUFFETARD. WE FOUND IT VERY CONVENIENT AND A LOT OF FUN TO SHOP THERE FOR OUR SUPPLIES. IN PROVENCE, WE WERE DELIGHTED WITH OUR VILLA. IT WAS SO MUCH BIGGER AND WELL EQUIPPED THAN WE HAD EXPECTED! THE TOWN OF VENASQUE IS BEAUTIFUL. WE RAMBLED AROUND PROVENCE, VISITING A DIFFERENT TOWN EACH DAY AND THEN CAME "HOME" TO OUR LITTLE PARADISE EACH EVENING. JOHN, I WAS GIVEN THE CREDIT FOR FINDING SUCH WONDERFUL PLACES TO LIVE IN FRANCE AND I MUST PASS THE CREDIT ON TO YOU. I AM RECOMMENDING YOUR AGENCY TO FRIENDS AND ASSOCIATES AND WE WILL DEFINITELY BE IN TOUCH FOR OUR NEXT TRIP.

Eilleen Higginbotham, Illinois, USA

Dear John, We have returned(regretfully) from the most wonderful vacation in France. The Auberge and Christian were fantastic. We also had another couple from Atlanta in our cooking class which made it fun. We even made it to the market at 6AM with Christian. What a wonderfully creative man. We ate well,slept well and totally enjoyed the area. You were truly right about the scenic view the first time we entered Venasque - what a picture!!! Thanks for your help and keep in touch. We plan to do another trip next year. (Cooking School, Provence, May

James Dunphy, New York, USA

We had a fantastic time - hard not to in that part of the world. We followed a number of your recommendations - dinner at the Lion D'or in St Paul and a visit to the museum there as well. (Riviera house) (Is this one really positive &/or specific enough??)

Bob King, Massachusetts, U.S.A

I just wanted to drop you a line to say how much we enjoyed the home we rented in Provence. It was just perfect. The house was so spacious and well-equipped. We have rented houses before in Tuscany and Ibiza, and this was by far the most comfortable..it felt much more like a home than "just a rental". Please feel free to give my e-address if you have a client who wants a reference for this house. (CAR122)

Robyn and John Chester, California, USA

This is a much overdue thank you for helping to organise our fantastic holiday to Europe in june/July. Everything went smoothly and the properties you'd booked for us were all as great as you'd promised. We especially enjoyed Chateau du Ru Jacquier near Epernay and our house in Venasque. The chateau had wonderful character and .. there was lots of space. Venasque is a very special place and it was lovely to be right in the centre of the village. The Paris apartment was in an excellent location and was roomy, although the beds were not comfortable. Our one night with Monsieur Aubrillat in Perrier, near Clermont-Ferrand, was, as you had predicted, not enough. What a delightful couple! ...and an idyllic spot. The area around Perrier is very beautiful and varied and next time we will spend more time there. I'm not sure if you want editing comments for your "itinerary notes" ( - eg the market in Rousillon is not on Wed now) Thanks again for your excellent service, John. We will certainly recommend you to friends, and work through you next time we go to France.

David Fitzgerald-Irons, Wellington, NZ

Just a brief note to say to thank you for your wonderful contribution to the success of our trip - we have definitely seen France, the French way, and it has more than lived up to expectation. We enjoyed the driving tours you supplied - they took us through some beautiful countryside, far enough off the heavily travelled roads to give us time and space to appreciate the scenery. The walking tour of Les Eyzies with Bruno was very enjoyable and informative too.

You'll be interested to know that while on the train from Cassis to Barcelona we met (some clients of yours) who confirmed what we already suspected and can certainly endorse - that no-one has ever come home from a "France, the French Way" itinerary disappointed. (Dordogne and Loire Valley, October 98)

(Riviera Apartment holiday, June)

Susan COMBER, Auckland , NZ

We would like to thank you for all the arrangements you made for us - the accommodation was excellent - we were all very impressed. Thank you for all the advice and information you gave us, it was very helpful.

It has been quite interesting to meet up with tales of other people doing similar things and travelling on their own in France. They had not been nearly as well organised (by other companies - and one group I heard of found their accommodation to be completely uninhabitable!). Thank you ..., for the part that you played in making this such a great holiday. (South of France House rentals, June)

Bob and Benita HAMILTON, Auckland , NZ

Our grateful thanks to you for the French tour which you organized for us. Thank you for the marvellous section of our world trip. (Tour of France, September)

Liona WOODNORTH, Timaru, NZ

Once again many thanks for a wonderful experience, without your help I am sure it would not have been quite as complete and trouble free, particularly in the driving area. Your driving instructions were just great. (Paris and Provence B&B holiday, June)

Carol and Peter EMANUEL, Wellington, NZ

C’est la vie! have enjoyed following your plan and suggestions. We’ve over indulged with Foie Gras and Vin - and loved every moment of it! Everything 100%. (Dordogne holiday, July)

Ross and Julie HUTTON, Christchurch, NZ

Merci, merci, merci! When we arrived at the apartment we almost rang you as it is so perfect - overlooks the Seine and Ile de la Cité, is charming and spacious and so well located. Your notes are exceptional and so useful - we call your booklet "the Bible" and take it everywhere we go! (Paris apartment rental, June)

Ian HARVEY, Hibiscus Coast, NZ

Everybody who has seen the itinerary you prepared for us has been wide-eyed and as favourably impressed as we were. You can justifiably be proud of the service you provide and we shall always remember it with deep appreciation. (Tour of France, October)

David and Libby RICHWHITE, Auckland , NZ

I can’t thank you enough for making the last few months so interesting for us. Not just the planning but the abundance of information and instructions which have been invaluable. (South of France and Paris, May-July)

Jean and Bob WILLYAMS, Auckland, NZ

What a feast your itinerary has proved to be for us. We have endeavoured to do all your tours and found your advice unfailingly worthwhile. Thank you for your superb itinerary. (Dordogne and Provence House Rentals, May)

Lynne and Mark KELSALL, Wellington, NZ

Many thanks for all your help - the effort some people go to is amazing. We wish you luck with all your business, new and existing and will send some more people to France - The French Way. (Provence House Rental (2 months),)

Richard Fox, New Zealand

Bourgogne is as beautiful as we remembered it - the poppies and wild flowers are out everywhere, and the scenery is almost overwhelming. As you said, there is very little traffic on the canals so one covers the distances comfortably with tons of time for Chateau etc. visits. Locaboat is excellent, and the staff and servicing are first class. (Canal de Bourgogne cruise, May)

Simon Louisson

Looking for a European holiday combining boating, cycling, walking, wine touring and gastronomic delights? Then check out renting a "Penichette" on the French canals.

It had always been a dream to cruise on a canal boat on the French canals, and for me the reality measured up to the dream. It was the highlight of a three month European trip, even for our eight and five year-old girls, who revelled in the freedom the boat gave them compared with travelling by car.

Canal cruising is just such a pleasant and leisurely way to travel. There are no hassles with traffic or accommodation, you can dine in or out at your whim and the scenery is fantastic.

In France, most canals locks are operated by lock-keepers so your approach to a lock adds interest to the journey rather than detracts. Like most people on French boats, we rented bicyles which we used frequently to visit nearby villages for our morning supply of baguettes, croissants, wine and other necessities.

One of the beauties of travelling by canal boat is you can moor virtually anywhere, allowing you to visit a nearby chateau, winery or village that takes your fancy. The towpath that runs beside the canal means crew can cycle or walk beside the boat to burn off the previous day's indulgences!

The canal boats are similarly equipped to yachts. Most of the home comforts are supplied and depending on size, there is at least one shower and toilet.

The French Penichettes reminded me of something like a 2CV Citroen on water with the wheelhouse set in the middle -- but they are well suited to their purpose. As happens with most 2CV owners, the ugly duckling grew on us, and on several occasions people aboard modern, plastic vessels told us they wished they had rented a penichette like ours. We had been worried about safety as our five year-old can barely swim but our concerns faded after the first day. The children soon learnt what was sensible, and they actually quickly became an integral part of the locking and docking team.

Operating the boat is simple enough. The Penichettes are virtually idiot-proof and the smaller variety we rented (P935) was very manoeuvrable. We entered our first lock with some trepidation, particularly as we were locking up, which is trickier than locking down, but emerged undamaged. Soon we became blasé and enjoyed watching novices get their ropes in a tangle!

France has an extensive canal system and deciding which area is the most attractive to cruise through can be a bit of a problem to most people - although a pleasant problem! To help us, we used a Christchurch agent, France the French Way, which specialises in canal boat trips. Because we chose to travel in the cheaper off-peak time from September 18, we decided on the Canal du Midi in the south, when it would still be warm.

The Languedoc scenery on the canal is extremely picturesque. It is easily the most popular pleasure boat waterway in France. However, it is far from crowded. Some days we only passed barely a dozen or so boats. We picked up our boat at a lock southeast of Toulouse and cruised one-way to Argens, a distance of about 250 km, with around 85 locks.

As befits this languid region where the sun shines warmly most days, we cruised a leisurely four to five hours a day often stopping for a siesta. The canal is shaded by plane trees for much of the distance while beyond the canal banks there are grape fields galore. The vendange (grape harvest) was in full swing during our travels and the pungent smell of crushed grapes at almost every village was often too much to resist. Stopping to wander off to a vineyard to buy the local wines (minervois and corbières) at such reasonable prices was one of the many pleasures of the voyage.

Almost every village in this medieval landscape is a wonder to our New Zealand eyes. As well, there are the larger historic towns such as Castelnaudary, home of the regional specialty dish of cassoulet, a stew of haricot beans and meats - preserved goose, pork and sausage.

While Carcassonne, home of Europe's largest castle, was a wonder and a delight, our greatest pleasures were in the lesser known villages. Activities such as buying food or enjoying a quiet pastis while listening to a game of village boules opens your eyes to a lifestyle that is very different from what we are used to.

Now, we just want to do it all again, but for me, it’s back to work!!

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