EXCURSIONS

Excursion 1: Normandy

You will begin your day in the gardens of the famous French Impressionist artist, Claude Monet. Monet's extensive gardens, including the water garden where he painted the waterlilies, are a tranquil and beautiful spot to begin your day. Later, you'll be in the heart of Rouen– a town famous for its Gothic churches and medieval atmosphere. The walking tour with ESA faculty will visit the site where Joan of Arc died, the "wedding cake" Cathedral and medieval streets.

 

Excursion 2: Fontainebleau & Vaux-le-Vicomte

Spend the morning at the splendid palace of Fontainebleau, where French kings from François 1er to the Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte once lived. This beautiful country residence is surrounded by lush gardens. In the afternoon, tour the 17th century castle of the tax-collector, Fouquet-- Vaux-le-Vicomte. This amazing residence inspired jealousy from Fouquet's monarch, Louis XIV. Find out what happens when you anger the king by seeing the rich decorations and extensive gardens for yourself.

 

 

Weekend Excursion: Chateaux Country, the Loire Valley

Weekend excursion to the historic and picturesque region of the Loire with two nights in the charming city of Tours, staying at a comfortable three star hotel with a welcome dinner and breakast each day. Stops include the historic, medieval town of Loches, the Renaissance Castle of Chambord and the ultimate chateau, Chenonceau (see photo below). Staying in Tours, we visit the cathedral and the old town with its half-timbered Place Plumereau. On Sunday morning, we'll also visit the gardens of Villandry castle then stop for an afternoon visit of the cathedral town of Chartres before returning home to Paris.

 

Program highlights:

• French language classes at all levels


• Lodging in our residence in central Paris, with a family , or in an apartment


• A complete civilization program in French and in English


• Cultural activities second to none


• Excursions outside of Paris:
  • a weekend visit to the Loire Valley including two nights in Tours
    
  • a day excursion to Rouen and Claude Monet's home in Giverny
  • a day excursion to the castles of Fontainebleau & Vaux-le-Vicomte

• Tickets to ballet, theater, concert, museums


• Possibility ofuniversity credit through City College of San Francisco, CSU East Bay, San Jose State University, CSU San Bernardino or East Los Angeles College. See here.