Barging is a unique way to travel because it allows you to explore the area surrounding a canal at a leisurely pace. On our seven-day voyage on European Waterway's 12-passenger hotel barge, L'Impressionniste, we crept along the Canal de Bourgogne from Fleury-sur-Ouche to Escommes at about 5 mph. Barges like ours once carried only freight but are now very popular among tourists. Here are seven reasons why:
Warm days and cool nights, coupled with a geography that fosters a variety of microclimates, have made the Napa Valley a cradle for some 400 wineries. It is an all-season, world-class tourist destination with broad appeal —- even for those who aren't wine-lovers. Here are just a few of the reasons to visit the Napa Valley:
Here's the thing about travel deals: They're everywhere! Chances are if there's a place you want to go and a price you want to pay, you can make it happen. (Within reason: A five-star resort in Hawaii for $50 a night? Not likely.) But in this age of the internet, budget airlines, incredible competition, and wild imbalances in currencies, all it takes to save big money on a great trip is time.
You've got to be willing to do the homework. Go online, keep checking, talk to travel agents, and keep your expectations real.