ARTISTIC REFLECTIONS IN FRANCE May 2005
In 2004 BILL GASSON a New Zealand journalist, travelled with Troubadour and wrote an article about his experiences.
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Read what our guests said about their experiences
'A truly memorable journey through rural France with all the enchantment of it's historical and natural beauty. Solange generously shares her depth of knowledge, love and great understanding she has for her country and it's people... A magical and happy experience full of surprises!' Sandra, Wellington 2006
'What an experience, if you don’t like crowds and queuing and the clatter of cars and big cities, this is the thing to do....What a privilege meeting these people, to hear their music and songs, to understand their lives, share their food and sit at their tables. Very, very happy memories of La Belle France and their welcoming people.' Bill & Karen, Nelson 2005
' ...unfailing energy and imagination, your generous catering for food and wine of the local areas went well beyond the calls of duty, as did your provision of local music which I will not forget. ...Robert and Christiane added another dimension for the poor French speakers like me... In short, a memorable trip with universally interesting fellow traveller...' Richard, Wellington 2005
'The uniqueness of the experiences was for us the most valuable aspect of the 15 days with you. We could never ever have had similar ones without someone like yourself to lead us in the right directions. You offer something very very special, which cannot be measured in dollars and cents. Your willingness to listen to, to understand and try to meet the expectations of each of us was quite remarkable. Thank again for sharing them with us and giving us very unique and special memories to treasure.. ' Eunice and John, Havelock North 2004
'You opened for us a window to France and French people... You were so thoughtful, inspiring and full of fun.' Michael and Jane, Hastings 2004
'One of the highlights for me was the Pyrenees with the visiting accordionist, sitting there peacefully together, talking, making music, eating superb food and wine while the sun moved lower in the sky…you are truly a troubadour …you provided us with the opportunity of a lifetime.' Marg, Wellington 2004
'...an absolutely fabulous holiday which combined so beautifully the joy of meeting people you introduced us to, with the grandeur of the places visited.' Bill, Wellington 2004
'Thank you again for the wonderful French gourmet experience... a wonderful two weeks that we shall never forget... you took us so many interesting places, shared so many times with your friends... and we got fitter...' Jocelyn, Christchurch 2002
'The whole style and ambiance of the tour arrangements were excellent. Just as important perhaps is that we consider it great value for money... We were very impressed with your ability to arrange other things to suit particular people and the group...' Mel, Raumati Beach 2000
'The atmosphere within the group was so relaxing... It was wonderful to meet your family and your old friends... I loved Pays Basque with the distinctive architecture, the friendly people and the culture... It was all so enjoyable.' Jennifer, Kati Kati 2000
'Not only did we have a charming and highly efficient woman as our guide, but her equally delightful French family were involved as well…This is what makes Solange’s tours unique, providing a rare opportunity to meet and become involved with real French people. It is also a rare privilege to travel with such a small group.. I will never forget our dinner party at her sister’s village near St Emilion, under glorious trees in the company of not only Solange's relatives, but everyone else from that village…And of course all the glorious wine..' Robin, Takaka 1998