Beyond Paris - 10 Days in France

In November, I had the incredible opportunity to spend 10 days in France, discovering the country’s diverse beauty. Hosted by my amazing in-country partner, the trip was a fantastic experience that also gave me the chance to connect with fellow travel advisors from around the world. We explored some of France's most iconic regions and I couldn't have asked for a more memorable time.

Though I missed Thanksgiving back in the U.S., I couldn’t resist immersing myself in the rich culture, history, and cuisine of France. We began in Paris, before heading to Beaune and Beaujolais to dive into their renowned wine culture. Then it was off to Lyon, a vibrant city filled with history, before making our way to the picturesque town of Avignon and the charming Luberon region. The trip wrapped up in Cannes, where I attended the prestigious ILTM conference, connecting with top luxury travel professionals and learning the latest industry trends – an incredible honor in my first year of business.

Here's a glimpse of where I stayed, what I ate, and what I did along the way.

Paris

Stay: Le Meurice
From the moment I arrived at Le Meurice, I knew I was in for something special. The hotel is a perfect blend of elegance and charm, and I highly recommend it for anyone visiting Paris. It’s an experience in itself, one I didn’t want to rush through, so I skipped drinks after dinner to savor every moment in this magical setting. (Plus, I have amazing perks here…like a guaranteed upgrade when we book your hotel, the most amazing breakfast you’ve ever seen, and of course hotel credits!)

Eat: Lou Lou & Hotel Nolinski
Both were incredible experiences. Lou Lou offered a cozy yet elegant atmosphere with views of the Louvre, while Hotel Nolinski had the perfect vibe for a leisurely Parisian dinner.

Do: Shopping at Le Bon Marché & a Walking Tour of the Covered Passages
I couldn’t resist the allure of Le Bon Marché, Paris' iconic department store, where I indulged in some shopping. Later, I explored the enchanting covered passages, filled with boutique shops and hidden cafes – a must for any Paris lover. (This trip I was only here for 24 hours, so I squeezed in some Christmas shopping and a quick tour!)

Beaune & Beaujolais

Stay: Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa Beaune
For my stay in Beaune, I chose Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa Beaune, a charming hotel with a perfect balance of modern comfort and classic French elegance. The spa provided the ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring the region.

Eat: Hostellerie Cèdre & Auberge du Cep
The culinary scene in Beaune is truly exceptional. Both Hostellerie Cèdre & Auberge du Cep earned Michelin stars, offering a culinary experience that is simply unforgettable. I also indulged in local bistros and visited wineries, where I savored the finest wines the region has to offer.

Do: Private Visit of Hospices de Beaune & Wine Tasting at Château de la Chaize
Our private visit to Hospices de Beaune was a highlight, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the region. We also explored the vineyards, learning about the wine-making process, and had the chance to enjoy a private wine tasting at Château de la Chaize, where the wines were as remarkable as the setting.

Lyon

Stay: Villa Maia
I stayed at Villa Maia, a luxurious retreat with sweeping views of the city. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Lyon, offering a serene atmosphere with modern comforts.

Eat: Bistrot Tetedoie & Local Bouchons
Lyon is renowned as the food capital of France, and I couldn’t resist indulging in its culinary delights. Bistrot Tetedoie served up exquisite dishes with local ingredients, while I also explored the city's traditional bouchons and vibrant markets, savoring everything from savory pâtés to delicious pastries.

Do: Private City & Food Tour
We embarked on a private city and food tour that allowed us to wander through Lyon’s charming neighborhoods, tasting local specialties along the way. The tour provided a fascinating blend of Lyon's rich history and modern cultural evolution – a must for anyone visiting this incredible city.

Avignon & Luberon

Stay: La Mirande
My stay at La Mirande in Avignon was pure magic. This charming hotel is the epitome of French elegance and made my time in Avignon unforgettable. If you ever visit, I highly recommend staying here!

Eat: We dined in cozy, authentic restaurants where I experienced the heart of Provençal cuisine.

Do: From immersive cooking classes at Maison de la Tour to exclusive winery visits, this region allowed me to fully dive into local culture and indulge in my favorite things: food, wine, and adventure. One unforgettable experience was a visit and lunch at Villa Lacoste, where art, architecture, and nature seamlessly blend. I also had the privilege of taking an Art and Architecture Private Guided Walking Tour in the breathtaking vineyards of Château La Coste, a place where the beauty of the landscape is matched only by its stunning collection of contemporary art and architecture.

Cannes

Stay: Le Majestic
I spent a week in Cannes for the ILTM conference, where I stayed at Le Majestic, an iconic hotel with unparalleled luxury and views of the Mediterranean. It was the perfect base for soaking in the glamour of the French Riviera.

Eat: Too many meals to list, but BOBO Bistro and Da Laura were standouts.

Do: By day, I met with hotels and travel partners, and by night, I attended industry events. It was a perfect mix of business and pleasure.

Final Thoughts

This trip was full of highlights, but the best part was meeting industry partners face-to-face and discovering new hotels and destinations. One of my favorite moments was taking a cooking class and visiting wineries. It’s in these experiences that you truly connect with locals and learn more about their lives.

A standout moment was my final night in Paris at Le Meurice – a truly magical experience that I will never forget. And I can’t stop thinking about my stay at La Mirande in Avignon – it added so much charm to my visit.

If you’ve already visited Paris, I highly recommend branching out to explore some of the other wonderful regions in France. Start in Paris, journey through the wine regions, and finish in the Riviera. It’s a perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure.

If you're ready to plan your own French getaway, I’d love to help! Whether you're drawn to Paris, the wine regions, or the glitz and glam of the Riviera, I can create the perfect itinerary tailored just for you.

Vive la voyage! Until next time, may your travels be filled with charm, croissants, and a little magic.