A Week of Wonders: Sheron’s Journey Through Paris & Normandy
Day 1: Paris, France (May 09) Our adventure begins in the heart of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower standing tall as our stunning backdrop. After embarking the ship and settling into our veranda stateroom (#223), we’re welcomed by the impeccable service of our cabin steward, Nelson. The 205-square-foot room is a haven of luxury, ensuring we’re well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Paris, France (May 10) The city of lights unveils its charms as we embark on a highlight tour with our guide, Terri. Her insights into local culture and the tumultuous history of Napoleon add depth to our exploration. Onboard, we celebrate birthdays and anniversaries with special cakes and songs, making these moments even more memorable.
Day 3: La Roche-Guyon and Vernon (May 11) A morning painting lesson with a local artist sets a creative tone for the day. In the afternoon, we visit the serene gardens of Monet at Giverny, where we wander amidst the blooms that inspired his masterpieces. The evening brings a delightful French-themed event onboard, with everyone donning berets and embracing the spirit of France.
Day 4: Seine River (May 12) Our journey takes us to the Commonwealth WW2 graves, a poignant reminder of the past. We begin with the Bayeux Tapestry, an intricate 70-metre-long embroidery depicting the events leading up to the Norman conquest. A hearty lunch at the Lion Den in Bayeux recharges us before we head to the Pegasus Bridge Museum, where we delve into the history of D-Day.
Day 5: Normandy, France (May 13) A leisurely walking tour of Rouen reveals its stunning Gothic cathedral and the storied life of Joan of Arc. Viking hosts a group dinner at the oldest restaurant in France, offering a taste of culinary history amidst warm company and conversation.
Day 6: Les Andelys, France (May 14) We set sail for Les Andelys, where we explore the town’s oldest ruins during a walking tour. Back on board, we enjoy a cooking demonstration by Executive Chef Erik, who shares the secrets of a perfect lemon tart, complete with recipes to try at home.
Day 7: Paris, France (May 15) High water levels in the Seine mean our ship docks further away, but we still manage to visit the historic Malmaison, Napoleon and Josephine’s former home. The beautifully preserved rooms and gardens offer a glimpse into their lives. Some of our group opts for an afternoon trip to Versailles, soaking in more royal splendour. Our last dinner onboard is followed by a magical night cruise on the Seine. The highlight of the evening was a marriage proposal under the sparkling Eiffel Tower, with Mitchell and Wendy from our group getting engaged. Paris truly is the city of love.
