Viva le France! Now Open to Vaccinated Travellers

France has long been the most popular European destination for South African travellers and in true Gallic style France is now open to tourists after an eighteen month hiatus. This is the first EU country to open their doors to South Africa without having to undergo a period of quarantine. 

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The country is blessed with vibrant cities, breathtaking countryside, charming villages, excellent food and superb wines. And to top it all the locals are friendly and English is widely spoken in hotels, shops and restaurants. 

Here are some popular destinations to assist you with booking your France holiday package:

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Paris 

The City of Love is so charming and romantic that you certainly will fall in love here! Tree-lined boulevards and winding cobbled lanes lead you from one beautiful scene to another. The city is best discovered on foot and there is always a convenient outdoor cafe when you need a break for tired feet. The popular â€˜hop-on-hop-off' bus will quickly acquaint you with the best sights in the city. Take the steps or the funicular up to the Sacre Couer Basilica for sweeping views of the city and then walk through the winding streets of Montmartre which is still the bohemian hang out for artists.  

The Eiffel Tower will also take you to dizzying heights over the city. Paris abounds with museums and but get there early as queues can be long, especially at the Louvre. Save money and buy sandwiches and juice to enjoy in one of the many parks in the city. Then there are the grand 'magasin’ or department stores where you will be tempted to shop till you drop and there are always seasonal sales for bargains.  

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Disneyland Paris 

This is more a destination than just an entertainment resort. With so many fun and interesting things to experience at Disneyland Paris be sure to include a few days in the resort to ensure the kids have a great time in France. There are two theme parks and many hotels to cater for the whole family.   

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The French Riviera  

Also called the Cote Azur, the French Riviera is the playground of the jet-set. Nice boasts the fashionable Promenade de la Croisette along the beach front and Cannes is known for its film festival and lively markets. In between, you will find villages along the winding coastal road where you can swim, relax and then dine under the stars. Worth visiting are Antibes, Juan les Pins and Saint Tropez and all are easily accessed by car or the coastal train. 

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Provence  

Travel guides wax lyrical about the beauty of Provence – so go and discover this sunny and delightful region of south-eastern France for yourself. The countryside is dotted with small farms growing vines and seas of blue lavender waving in the breeze. The best way to get around is by car or even a cycle tour. Many of the villages were built on hill tops for safety and little seems to have changed in hundreds of years. This is where Vincent van Gogh was inspired to paint his masterpieces and you might be lucky to pick up a painting from a local market to remind you of lazy days in the countryside. 

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Wine Routes  

There are many wine routes in France, and the Champagne Route is also a must-see for wine enthusiasts. Rent a car and meander between the small vineyards where the same families have produced top-lass wines for millennia. Wine tastings abound and pretty towns also serve the locally produced wines in their outdoor cafes and bistros.

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Canal Cruising or Barging 

For the ultimate relaxing holiday hire a cruise boat on one of the many canals and rivers in France. This is a great way for families and groups of friends to wend their way through farmlands and villages at their own pace as you are captain of your boat. Stop to buy fresh food, mouthwatering bread and local delicacies or dine out in local cafes for superb dishes at reasonable prices. Barging offers you a place on a larger boat with on board service and daily excursions without having to lift a hand.   

These are just a few ideas for your holiday in France. Call the team at Thompsons Holidays and they will tailor make an unforgettable holiday package for you and your family. Bon voyage!  

Destinations

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