WorldTowning Voyages: France

As many of you know, we lived in the Provence region of France, on and off, over the past 4 years. We can never get too far away: cheese, olives, wine, and picture-perfect landscapes...what more does one need? Joking aside, the Provence region of France has captured our hearts like no other place. It is our European home when we need to feel connected to food, the land, and friends. We want to share all this goodness with you. This region of France is known for its sunny weather, colorful countryside, tradition, wine, food, and language. Imagine spending your days among plains of rolling vineyards, olive groves, pine forests and lavender fields.

Join Jessica, Will, Avalon and Largo and your fellow WorldTowning Voyagers for a week of learning, eating, smelling, hiking, making and more in the Provence region of France! Explore with us, using a purposefully designed itinerary that maximizes exposure to the best parts of the culture: food, art, crafts, wine, cheese and my favorite pastime, meeting the locals.

Does this sound dreamy? The experience is all that, and more.

For more details scroll down for the daily itinerary at the bottom of this page. And for an even greater understanding of what to expect in France, check out our videos from our adventures exploring.

What is a requirement for this trip?

This trip is open to singles, couples and families. However, given the active and challenging nature of this trip, we have the following guidelines:

*Group members must be physically fit individuals (see participation guidelines below). This adventure is not recommended for anyone under 10 or over 70 due to the level of activity. 

* A community mindset and the ability to be considerate of others.

* A desire to embrace a culture that is different than your own without judgement.

If you want to explore a land renowned for its food, wine and countryside, make new friends, and push yourself out of your comfort zone, this is for you. If you care about connecting deeply with a new culture and its people in a way you cannot do in a traditional vacation, this is for you. If you approach the world with a glass is half full attitude, this is for you.

Participation Guidelines

This is a trip of a lifetime for many, but not for all. If you have watched our vlogs, you have a very clear understanding of how we engage with the world as we WorldTown. We feel it is important to be honest about what the trip entails. We want everyone who attends to have an awesome experience. Because of that, we are making sure you have as much information upfront as possible to make a decision about whether it is right for you.

As with any group trip, travelers have many different types of personalities. People’s level of enjoyment during a trip will be affected by those around them. Understanding that personalities are different, there are some things we ask of our trip participants. Please thoughtfully consider that this trip might not be for you if you are in conflict with any of the statements below.

WorldTowning Voyage France trip participants must possess the following characteristics:

A humanitarian nature

WorldTowning is a humanitarian company. Humanitarianism is an active belief in the value of human life, whereby humans practice benevolence and provide assistance to other humans, in order to better humanity in the areas of morality, altruism, logic and reason. We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind, including that which is based on race, color, religion, sexual preference, gender identity, national origin, physical or mental ability, or any other basis of discrimination. Our company operates from a place of kindness to all—and we ask that all who join us do the same. This goes for the staff that assists us and anyone we encounter in our travels. If you cannot be kind to the people working with us and treat them as equals, rather than servants this is not the trip for you.

An active lifestyle and be physically fit

The French countryside and villages are NOT always accessible. Door to door motorized transportation cannot be guaranteed between all the places we will visit. Much of this trip will be focused on walking and hiking in picture-perfect landscapes. This trip requires mobility and energy. If you struggle with physical activity, have accessibility needs or need special care, then this trip is not for you. We cannot guarantee access to alternative modes of transportation (cabs, buses, etc) which means you will need to walk even if you are struggling. As a general rule, you should be able to walk up to 5 miles per day on cobblestone (not all at the same time), climb four flights of stairs (elevators are not always available) and be able to drag or carry your belongings on wobbly streets. In several of the locations, there will not be porters to help us. Another reason why you must be fit. 

Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing plans

We have worked very hard to secure locations, create detailed arrangements and ensure contracts are in place. However, plans do change on trips of this nature, due to weather, unforeseen differences in culture, and other factors beyond our control. As a result, we may have to change a plan at the last minute. It is not ideal, but we are realistic in understanding that it does happen. In the event you have a rare evening without hot water or ac or have a hard pillow/uncomfortable bed we will do our best to accommodate, but there is not always a solution. Sometimes these things happen even in the best of accommodations, due to no fault of ours or the staff. We take these experiences in stride and as an opportunity to stretch ourselves. We require high levels of adaptability for just these cases during our WorldTowning Voyage trips. 

Acceptance of different cultures

If this is your first time in Europe, particularly France, you will experience a culture different from your home.  It is not a wrong way of life, nor is it abnormal, even though it might be foreign to you. Some crave familiarity—in food, culture, religion, communication, etc. This trip is for people who are able and willing to go outside of their comfort zones when it comes to day-to-day life.

A willingness to sometimes rise early

Most days we will start with breakfast at 7:30/8:00 am, however, there will be a day or two where we will need to rise earlier. If you do not like to get up early occasionally, this is not the trip for you.

An openness to new foods

Outside of one planned Italian dinner, we will eat solely local French food. There will be no access to Starbucks or McDonald's, but we will devour copious amounts of cafe creme and French pastries of every variety. We eat very, very well in France.  Food is one of the highlights of this trip. This trip does call for people willing to try the new, exotic, and globally renowned foods of the Provence region.

Comfortable with sharing a restroom with a couple of other people

During our stay in the expansive and palatial villa, the single-occupant rooms and most likely several double-occupant rooms will need to share a restroom with others. There will be four toilets and two showers shared by six rooms. If you are in a triple or quad you will be in a different part of the villa which provides a separate toilet and shower per room. In our Hyéres accommodations, each room will have its own toilet and shower.  

Alcohol independence 

It is the Provence region known for its incredible assortment of wines. Wine available at most dinners. However, those accustomed to regular alcohol use or desiring to drink every meal should consider this trip carefully. 

A desire for cultural awakening instead of a tropical vacation or nightlife experience

Although France has sandy beaches, this will not be the focus of our group trip to France—maybe on our next one. As much as Will and I love to cut a rug, exploring the nightlife will not be a planned part of this trip, as well. (Although spontaneous dance moments have been known to appear sparking a much-enjoyed experience).  Ordinarily, when we are up late, it will be the result of a dinner or tour. 

Ability to ride in a vehicle for several hours at a time

We have created a tour that we believe highlights the best parts of the Provence region of France. As a result, this will means some driving time, which we will break up with restroom breaks and of course a coffee. You can rest, chat, read, write, share photos and play games (including WorldTowning Vlog trivia) while the driver delivers us safely to our destination. If you have difficulty sitting for two hours at a time without a break this is not the trip for you. 

Warm-weather adaptability

While October is one of the more moderate months in the Provence region of France, hot days can happen. If you have spent any time in France you know that they are not very fond of air conditioning, which means you could have a warmer than expected afternoon in your accommodations. If you are seeking a cool spring getaway, this is not the trip for you.

A community approach to travel and the ability to work as a team

We are here to make this the most amazing group trip you have ever taken, just ask our previous group and check out the reviews. Our goal is to fill your soul to the brim with magic in a group environment with like hearted individuals. It is not good for the group moral if we have someone who expects us or other trip members to accommodate to their needs solely. This is why it is very important to read the guidelines above. We cannot leave the group to care for an individual unless they are sick. If you are continually late, constantly complaining that "it's not like home", treating the staff we encounter poorly (this includes Will, Jessica, Avalon and Largo), we reserve the right to send you home. This may sound harsh, but a group trip is just that "a group" and our philosophy is to work together as a team and not be self absorbed or inconsiderate of others time, at the same time being accountable for ourselves and those we bring with us. 

*We reserve the right to refuse registration to anyone we feel does not represent the WorldTowning philosophy of travel listed above.

Understand and agree with the WorldTowning and WorldTowning Voyages Mission Statement

See below.

We need a minimum of 16 people for this trip to take place. Please do not book flights or make any other related financial investments into the trip until we notify you that it is official. If 16 people do not sign up for the trip, you will be fully refunded the amount of money paid to WorldTowning for your spot. 

If more than 18 people sign up, we will waitlist the additional individuals. Those who may have been waitlisted for the trip, will get first refusal for registration if a space becomes available. 

The 50% down payment is non-refundable, as we must forward payments for locations, transportation and tours in advance (unless our trip minimum is not met). However, should you need to cancel, we will offer your spot to the first person on the waitlist. If we are able to fill your spot, we will refund your down payment, minus processing fees. 

Final payment is due 90 days before the start of the trip. This is non-negotiable. If you do not pay the balance for your trip, your place will be given to another individual and your down-payment will be forfeited.

Arriving late or leaving a trip in progress will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portion of the trip. If we request you leave the trip due to poor behavior (see participation guidelines) no refund will be given.

The itinerary is subject to change, if we find an experience that we believe would make the trip even better. 

We've outlined a few of the most common FAQ's here. Once you register and make a deposit for the trip a complete welcome email, welcome package (including a more extensive FAQ) and regular communications will arrive in your mail box within the upcoming months. We will also have a Zoom video call to meet all of you, clarify the itinerary and again go over who this kind of trip is best suited for.

Why should we take this trip with you?

If you follow us on Social Media, you will quickly discover that our family of four has been traveling full-time since 2014 with a focus on finding the most authentic and soul-filling experiences possible. It is the experience that we seek for ourselves that we wish to impart onto you. Our small groups allow us the opportunity to create deep connections with those who we interact with locally and among ourselves. Every adventure is a growth opportunity and we will be with you every part of the way.

Do we have rest days?

We have more activity options than humanly imaginable to provide you with the fullest French experience. With that premise in mind, there are no scheduled rest days. However, it is not uncommon for individuals to sit out an activity as deemed necessary to provide for additional rest or to seek out adventures alone. In the event that you choose to sit out, you are responsible for your time, food, costs and whatever else you choose to do. We will not plan additional activities for you.

Who is welcome on this trip?

We've outlined above who this trip is for and who is it not for. Understand that WorldTowning does not discriminate based on religion, gender, race, age, socio-economic status or sexuality. We are welcoming and inviting of all who meet the participation guidelines, and request that, if you join us, you demonstrate inclusiveness and that you welcome all religions, genders, races and sexual orientations without bias.

Which airport should I fly into?

The closest airport is Marseille, however if you find a good deal from Nice you can do that as well. You will be responsible for transportation from the airport to Hyéres, however both airports provide a bus and then a train to Hyéres. Of course, we will be giving more details on this as the trip approaches. 

When will we first meet?

Besides the face to face on-line trip-preparation discussions which will occur prior to the trip, we will all meet for the first time on October 3rd at the hotel during our wine and cheese meet n' greet. However, if your flight arrives late, we will see you at the opening breakfast on October 4th.

Do I need trip/medical insurance? (Note: This is a WorldTowning Voyages trip requirement.)

Yes. You never can predict what can happen on a trip, and we want to make sure our guests are covered if things go wrong. There are a variety of travel insurance providers who offer short term insurance covering medical, lost luggage, and trip interruption. We will need verification of coverage prior to the start of the trip. 

Is this a mission or does it have a religious affiliation?

No. WorldTowning is not affiliated with any religious group. 

Can children attend this trip? Are they free? Do you offer babysitting?

Children can attend, but please note the level of physical activity and the age requirements. Children under 10 are not the best fit for this trip. Unfortunately, we will not be able to make accommodations for children for walking, hiking or travel.

Children do pay the same rate as any other guest as we do not get a discount from the companies we work with for children. 

We do not provide babysitting services and our team members (or other guests) will not be responsible for your children if you request this. We love kids, but we don't feel comfortable being responsible for a minor. You are responsible for the children you bring. 

How many people will be on the trip? Will you open it up to more?

The maximum size is 18-20 (plus the four of us). We keep the groups small for a more intimate and friendly learning experience.

What happens if I get sick? 

This can happen both when at home and while traveling. We will do our best to keep you comfortable in every way possible. Be sure to bring any products that you use from home for when you are ill.

Do I need a visa?  

No, in most situations. Visas are not required for visits lasting fewer than 90 days. You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page. In addition, your passport must have an expiration six months later than your expected exit date from France. In some cases, a visa may be required depending on your passport country.

Is France safe?

Yes. 

Are vaccines required?

No, but before you travel overseas, it is always good to view the list of recommended vaccines for France.

What should I pack?

Don't pack too much! Functional, lightweight clothing that can be worn a few days at a time, and then easily washed and hung dry is best. The temperature can be warm in the day and early evening, depending on where we are in the country. A more complete packing list will be included in the itinerary. 

Can I join you for part of the trip or provide my own accommodations?

Unfortunately, we cannot offer modifications to the trip. 

Will vegetarian and vegan options be available?

There are options for vegetarians and Vegans in France. However, if you follow a vegan diet, a gluten-free diet or another type of restricted diet, this trip might not be the best fit. We will be sampling local cheese and bread, and many of our activities will be centered around the culture of food. If you are considering this trip, but have dietary limitations please reach out ahead of booking to discuss what options are available. In all cases, we will do our best to work with you, but we believe it is important to be frank that some options may be more challenging or not even possible.

Can my pet join me?

We are not able to accept or accommodate travelers with support animals due to restrictions within France.

How will we travel from location to location?

The bus we will be using seats 20-25 people comfortably with air conditioning and heating. There is no WIFI on board but you won't miss it while enjoying the views of the French countryside! We do ask on the bus that you sit with another individual so we may leave the four front seats open for anyone who gets car sick and several other seats for our carry on bags.  Absent any unexpected traffic delays, we do not expect any bus ride to exceed two and a half hours.

WorldTowning is a slow travel-adventure company committed to helping those seeking a broader global experience to embrace a lifestyle of respect, learning, growth and giving through concentrated exposure to and immersion in the world’s many diverse and varied cultures. We do this by equipping travelers with necessary education, tools and consultation, so they can take the next steps in their long-term travel journeys. We are more than a travel company, however. At WorldTowning, we are in the business of cultural bridge-building, personal-development fueling, heart and mind expanding, and dream living. Our WorldTowning Voyages program is an extension of our core WorldTowning offerings, wherein small groups of travelers embark on shared experiences and adventures to live the world as locals on the globe’s roads less traveled. 

WorldTowning: Living and Changing the World, One Hometown at a Time

Each WorldTowning Voyages group trip has a volunteer component. We are still working on our volunteer opportunity on this trip. More details to come.