10 Reasons Why I Love Barge Cruises

People often ask me how I became a travel specialist booking barge cruises in France and Europe. Back in 1988, my husband, Jack, and I bought a charter barge and spent the next 8 years cruising with guests through the waterways of Holland, Belgium and France. The next 7 years was spent organizing and leading walking and "ladies on the loose" tours in Paris and France. With all that experience and knowledge, it was a natural transition into representing 40+ barges as their U.S. agent. But WHY do I still love barging after all these years?


Relaxing on the sundeck of Saint Louis in southwest France

1. It is the ultimate getaway. Once on board, the rest of the world fades away and time slows down. I am surrounded by a cocoon of old world charm and the pleasure of living on an historic vessel. The ambiance and beauty along the canals creates a magical atmosphere of peace and tranquility. It’s a chance to get off the roller coaster of life back home. I can choose to relax on deck and watch the ever-changing scenery glide by or get off to walk and bike. Everything is up close and personal.




Lots of time to fool around and have fun!

2. The camaraderie of being with friends, old and new, where everything is taken care of from lodging, sightseeing, food, wine and cruising. All we have to do is show up and participate.

3. Being pampered and cared for by an attentive crew is truly relaxing and fun. Each crew member has his/her own personality which makes for an entertaining mix of people.



4. French culture and life on the canals is a timeless, unique experience. I love the French way of life where slow travel and slow dining are the norm.
 
5. The scenery is gorgeous - pastoral and rural, green rolling hills, sleepy ancient villages, sunflowers, vineyards, mustard fields, flowers everywhere, pastures with fat cows, fishermen, people strolling and biking the towpaths, colorful lockhouses, historic sights, old stone buildings, outdoor cafes, people playing petanque, open air markets, on and on and on.

Smoked salmon on a bed of roasted beets and lambs' lettuce

6. It's great for foodies! The food and wine are superb. From the fresh coffee and croissants in the morning to the last sweet treat after dinner, the food is fabulous. Healthy, fresh and diverse, the chef shops for seasonal ingredients to prepare a variety of traditional French dishes and gourmet fare. Each dish, wine and cheese is presented and explained with loving care. There is a story for everything we consume - it's just plain fun!. Some of the barges have open demonstration kitchens where the guests can watch the meals being prepared.

7. The barge itself is unique and personalized by its owner. I love unpacking once and getting settled into the sometimes small, but well designed, cabin. It's like playing house. The well appointed cabins provide a comfortable retreat.

Savoir Faire in a lock on the Burgundy Canal

8. Amazing history and engineering. The canals and waterways are an engineering feat dating back to Leonardo di Vinci. The canals and rivers are an important part of the history and development of France and Europe.

9. Excursions to the local sights gives me an insight into the history and people in the area. And the history of France is fascinating when our guide regales us with stories of local families and the culture. Of course, shopping the open air markets and village boutiques is great fun too!

10. Appreciation for the barge owners' passion. It helps me appreciate the passion and commitment the barge owners put into their work, from building and decorating the barge in their own unique style to providing a welcoming home away from home where guests can relax and enjoy themselves for a week in an intimate and comfortable environment. The experience of being welcomed into these floating homes is priceless.

I snuck in #11 - This is my life's work. I love helping people go on barge cruises. It is so satisfying to talk with clients when they return to hear that this was “one of the best vacations ever.” I now hear that it's on their "bucket list" of things to do and see. No wonder I love the business of helping people go on truly unique vacations.

Ready to go barging? Call me at 1-888-264-3983 or visit our website at www.canalbargecruises.com. I'm ready to help whenever you're ready to go.