1
2
5
7
8
9
10
10-Day Normandy, France Slowcation
$6,300 USD – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)
A down payment of half the trip cost per person is required to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.
*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.
All payments made by credit or debit card are subject to processing fees. These fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account which does not incur any processing fees.
I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?
There is no single supplement for this trip and every person who signs up will get their own room. Many French châteaux do not have rooms with 2 beds and this château is no exception. Note that we do not offer roommate pairing on this trip and rooms can only be equipped with 1 bed.
*Airport pick-up is only included if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you are staying in Paris before the trip begins. If you are arriving at another date or city, airport pick-up is not included.
What is included :
- Airport pick-up*
- 9 nights accommodation (single occupancy)
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Private, climatized ground transportation
- All breakfasts, 3 lunches, all dinners
- Local trip leader throughout
- Globe Drifters representative
What is not included :
- International flights
- Airport drop-off
- Insurance
- Visas (if needed)
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities
- Souvenirs
-
Smile policy
We welcome all kinds of travelers and the group dynamic of each trip is different but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You should be able to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.No complainers
Our goal is for everyone to have fun and a trip of a lifetime. On our trips, you should be able to let the small stuff go and exercise flexibility when things don’t go according to plan. If you are a traveler who finds fault with everything and complains about the little things, then our trips are not right for you. Come with an open mind and adventurous spirit, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime!France is not like home
Expect things to be different than what you’re used to back home and remember that it’s all a part of traveling and experiencing new places! For example, water pressure, bed and pillow firmness, and room temperature may be different than what you’re used to back home. Also, Wifi may be spotty, slow, or even unavailable in certain remote areas. You’ll be staying in a château that has been completely restored with modern touches for a comfortable and elegant stay. However, keep in mind that it was built in the 1700s and is not the same as a modern hotel.Trip leader
Your trip leader and château host will help you have an unforgettable experience and can answer questions & offer suggestions. They will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip but are not your personal assistants. Travelers should exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our trips. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your trip leader who will be with you throughout the entire trip.Semi-independent trip
Our trips are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your trip leader and host can offer recommendations for alternative activities but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities. Additionally, you’re free to arrive before or depart after the trip but pre-/post-tour plans, accommodation, transport, etc. are yours to arrange. We do not offer assistance with any plans outside of the trip dates. -
This trip requires a low/medium level of physical fitness. If you’re not feeling up for an activity, you’re welcome to explore on your own. There is a fair amount of walking and be aware that it can be on cobblestone streets.
The château does not have an elevator so you should be able to walk up and down 2 – 3 or more flights of stairs with varying degrees of steepness, with your luggage, and unassisted. We have hired someone to help you with your luggage for 15 euros per person if you need your luggage brought to your room. You can pay on arrival in cash.
There will be lots of walking on this trip and the days will be quite full. Each day will start around 8:30/9 AM and end around 5/6:00 PM. We will be walking a total of anywhere from 2 – 4 miles or more a day.
To participate in this trip you should be able to:
- Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day unassisted, up and down stairs, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces, with and without an incline, and on rough terrain.
- Be comfortable on your feet for up to 4-6 hours unassisted, walking and standing, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions.
- Carry your luggage from the taxi/bus to the château and your room.
- Get in and out of a bus without assistance.
-
On this slowcation, you will be staying at one of the most beautiful châteaux in Normandy. Throughout the slowcation, you’ll travel to some of the most beautiful towns and villages in France and participate in hand-picked, unique activities with private drivers. All breakfasts, 3 lunches, and all dinners are included in the trip cost. This is a great chance to truly experience a place and get to know your fellow travelers all without the hassle of packing and unpacking every day!
Due to the remote location of the château, there will be a full day of activities and excursions each day and there will not be any free days on this slowcation.
Find out more about how our slowcations work by clicking here: HOW IT WORKS.
-
The château is located in the village of Carsix, in the heart of Normandy, making it a perfect departure point for us to explore the region. The village maintains a quiet, rural atmosphere and there are no major tourist facilities in the village lending to an authentic experience of life in the Norman countryside.
Below are some of the nearby towns and cities in Normandy and approximately how long it takes to get there by car from the château:
- Beuvron-en-Auge: 1 hour
- Le Bec-Hellouin: 30 minutes
- Giverny: 1.5 hours
- Lisieux: 45 minutes
- Honfleur: 1 hour
- Rouen: 1 hour
- Bayeux: 2 hours
- Fécamp: 1.5 hours
- Étretat: 1.5 hours
-
The château is located in the Eure department of the Normandy region. It is situated in the small village of Carsix, approximately 2 hours from the main airport of Paris.
The château was built in the 18th century and features classic French Renaissance architecture with elegant façades, beautifully landscaped gardens, and period furnishings that provide a sense of historical grandeur.
Carsix is a small village with a population of around 300 inhabitants. It dates back to medieval times and is set in a picturesque, rural landscape typical of Normandy, known for its rolling fields, hedgerows, and traditional French countryside scenery.
-
The group consists of around 10 – 18 travelers. We prefer small group travel because based on our experience, large groups are less easily able to integrate into society and generally have less authentic contact with the locals.
A small group number means that the participants will receive more personal treatment from the trip leader and host who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.
-
Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.
The minimum age on our trips is 18.
Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples.
Check out the pictures from our past slowcation in the south of France to get an idea of who typically goes on our trips by clicking HERE.
-
Most daily activities, excursions, and meals are included in the trip price. Optional activities and some lunches are not included in the trip cost and are paid at your own expense.
-
Airport pick-up is included in this trip*. The arrival airport is Paris (CDG or ORY) and is approximately 2.5 hours from the château by car.
*Airport pick-up is only included if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you ave staying in Paris before the trip begins. If you are arriving on another date, city, or airport, airport pick-up is not included.
Airport drop-off is not included on this trip. Your trip leader or host can help coordinate departure transportation during the trip. You can get to Paris by train or taxi/private car depending on your schedule and budget.
The cost of a taxi or a private minivan to get to Paris from the château is approximately 150 – 250 euros per person and usually takes up to 2.5 hours. You can share this cost with other travelers who are departing at similar times.
-
Currently, passport holders from the USA, Australia, the UK, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland do not need a visa for a visit of up to 90 days in France. You may be required to show proof of exit from France in the form of a departure flight.
If you are from a country other than those listed above, please check with your nearest French Embassy or Consulate about visa requirements.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
-
The official currency of France is the euro (EUR).
Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using a currency converter online.
-
We strongly recommend using ATMs while in France as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to withdraw some money from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.
You can usually find ATMs at banks, supermarkets, gas stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices. There are several banks in the towns we will visit during the trip so you won’t have any issues finding an ATM.
Since euros are a popular currency, most banks in your home town/city will exchange your local currency for euros. This a very convenient way to get euros but some banks might not have favorable exchange rates or charge additional fees to exchange. It is best to check with your bank to see what fees are associated with exchanging money in your hometown.
-
Credit and debit cards are widely used in most towns and cities in France (except Amex and Discover). However, at small, local businesses such as coffee shops, bakeries, and bars, cash is the main method of payment. Therefore, it’s best to carry cash in case you come across a place that does not take card payments.
It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in France. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans.
-
While tipping isn’t mandatory in France, it is customary. Rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is the norm. If you do decide to tip, around 10-20% of the total bill is acceptable.
Tipping your trip leader: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip around 100 – 150 EUR at the end of your trip based on past travelers’ feedback.
Tipping your driver: If you were satisfied with the driver’s service during the trip, then you can tip 30 Euros at the end of your stay.
For more information about tipping your trip leader, please see our blog on tipping your trip leader.
-
We recommend having access to anywhere between 600 – 800 USD or EUR either in cash or by credit/debit card based on past travelers’ feedback. We strongly advise budgeting more than you plan to spend in case of an emergency.
As most components of your trip have been prepaid, you will only need money for a few lunches, tips, and any optional activities you may want to participate in. If you are an avid shopper or enjoy a cocktail in the evening, these costs are incurred at your own expense.
-
Please contact your cell phone service provider about whether or not your cell phone will work in France. It’s also a good idea to ask your provider about data and call roaming prices. When you land in France, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below:
Welcome to France! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day.
You may also consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.
-
The château offers free Wifi. It is not guaranteed in any bedroom. Keep in mind that the internet may not be as fast as you’re used to and could be spotty or weak in some areas of the château. You’ll also find Wifi in some restaurants and other public places in France.
If you need an internet connection, then it is best to get an international plan for the duration of your stay.
-
In France, the most common outlet fits European pin plugs also known as the standard “Euro” outlet (see picture below). France operates on 230V and 50Hz. Converters and/or adapters might be necessary for your electronic devices.
-
-
The weather in late September in France can be cool or warm during the day with average highs around 68-70°F (20-21°C). It gets significantly cooler at night and can even get cold with average temperatures in the low 50s°F (around 10°C). It’s best to pack layers and a warm jacket or cardigan for the cool/cold weather.
Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:
- Comfortable walking shoes (good traction & ankle support for cobblestone streets)
- Lightweight clothing that dries quickly
- Warm clothing (for cooler days)
- Light and warm jacket/coat/cardigan (for cooler days and nights)
- Scarf (for colder days)
- Rain jacket
- Umbrella (for shade & rain)
- Sunglasses/hat
- Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag (for day trips)
- Reusable water bottle
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Adapters/converters for electronics (bring 2 or more just in case)
- Prescription medication and/or over-the-counter medicine
- Sunscreen (biodegradable, if possible)
- Conditioner (shampoo and soap provided)*
- Washcloth
- Extra bag for souvenirs (if needed)
*All rooms have a hairdryer and small toiletries kit in each room. It’s best to bring more if you need it.
-
The château offers laundry services for a fee. It is best to give laundry to the château staff in the morning and it is usually ready by the next day.
-
The tap water in France is safe to drink. However, in larger cities such as Paris, while it is still safe to drink, many travelers have said that they didn’t enjoy the taste of the water. Where we are staying the tap water is fresh and drinkable so don’t forget to bring your water bottle.
-
Most areas of France that you will visit on this trip experience fewer crimes compared to bigger US and European cities. As with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not to leave belongings unattended to avoid being an easy target for a thief.
Being a larger city, pickpocketing can happen in Paris so be aware of your belongings, keep your valuables secure, and do not put anything in your back pockets. Be especially vigilant if you are in public transportation or at a crowded or touristy spot as thieves target these areas.
The US State Department offers general travel information about France. See below for more information:
-
Restaurants throughout France offer a wide variety of foods. All meals are included on this trip so please notify us of any specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, food sensitivities/allergies, etc at the time of booking. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip but options might be limited.
-
Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website for France before traveling to see any recommended vaccinations.
If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.
-
Yes, we offer private trips to France depending on the size of the group and availability.
Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.
Flights
Your arrival and departure airport is Paris (CDG) or (ORY).
*Please do not purchase any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your trip within 24 – 48 hours of booking.
Visa
Currently, passport holders from the USA, Australia, the UK, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland do not need a visa for a visit of up to 90 days in France. You may be required to show proof of exit from France in the form of a departure flight.
If you are from a country other than those listed above, please check with your nearest French Embassy or Consulate about your visa requirements.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
The château is located in the village of Carsix, in the Eure department of the Normandy region, about 2.5 hours by car from the main Paris airport. Its location makes it a perfect departure point to explore the region. The château’s surroundings are a picturesque, rural landscape typical of Normandy, known for its rolling fields, hedgerows, and traditional French countryside scenery. There are no major tourist facilities in the village which lends to an authentic experience of life in the Norman countryside.
The château was built in the 18th century and features classic French Renaissance architecture with elegant façades, beautifully landscaped gardens, and period furnishings that provide a sense of historical grandeur. The property boasts its 4 relaxing lounges, grand dining rooms, two kitchens, pavilions, and a grand gate adorned with the coat of arms of the family who owns the château.
There are 16 rooms in the château that are warm and bright and each room has period woodwork and moldings as well as a fireplace. Additionally, each room is fitted with a king or queen size bed and a modern, private bathroom. There is also 1 bedroom located on the ground floor, best suited for guests with limited mobility.
We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We recommend Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.
For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N
