Press Release, March 2010

Australia’s French travel specialist has

France’s waterways covered

Canal boats, barges & now river cruising

French Travel Connection is now offering river cruising to some of France’s most beautiful, historic and cultural regions on board two boutique cruise vessels – River Baroness and River Royale.

To celebrate the launch, Australia’s leading travel specialist to France is offering an exclusive $1,000 per person* discount on selected 15-day Grand France cruises for bookings made before 31 March 2010.

The Grand France voyage explores the very best of northern France, Burgundy and Provence – from quaint villages, bustling marketplaces and scenic vineyards to magnificent cathedrals, historic castles and World Heritage Sites.

The package includes 14 nights’ twin share accommodation in a Riverview Stateroom, all meals onboard, fine wines and beer during dinner, 12 shore excursions (with an English-speaking guides) and an exclusive Epicurean Adventurer program exploring regional culinary highlights.

Passengers also enjoy local entertainment onboard, along with unique “Signature” lectures on the Seine River’s role in Impressionist paintings and the tragic life of Vincent van Gogh.

Managing Director Brad McDonnell said French Travel Connection now offered Australian travellers an unrivalled range of river and canal cruise options in France.

“Our wide selection of self-drive canal boats and traditional crewed canal barges has been incredibly popular in the Australian marketplace,” Mr McDonnell said.

“Self-drive canal boats accommodate up to 12 passengers, while crewed canal barges sleep four to 22 passengers – and both offer various grades of facilities and accommodation, from moderate right through to the ultimate in luxury.

“Now, with the introduction of two 100-plus passenger cruise ships to our range, we can offer travellers yet another experience.”

All three options allow travellers to combine the convenience and comfort of a “floating apartment or hotel” with self-guided walking and

cycling tours through picture post-card scenery, fascinating historical sites and some of the world’s best food and wine.

Both the River Baroness and River Royale offer a panoramic lounge, elegant restaurant, full-service bar, cosy library and games room, sun deck, fitness room, massage treatments, specialty coffee and tea bar, wireless Internet access and 24-hour reception service. Passengers are also provided with bicycles to explore the local villages and countryside that inspired the art of Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin.

The ships’ sophisticated staterooms feature hotel-style beds, fine linens, flat-screen TVs, climate control and an ensuite with premium L'Occitane body products.

Prices for the river cruise itineraries start from $2726** for eight days and from $5579** for 15 days (cabin category 3). The $1,000 per person discount* applies to the 15-day itinerary in cabin categories 1 and 2 (selected departures only).

 For full details and bookings contact us

by phone 1300 858 304 or email info@frenchtravel.com.au.