For biking enthusiasts everywhere, the ultimate vacation dream is a universal one – a Tour de France trip. That would be the one common vacation destination at the top of their wish lists. Fortunately, a Tour de France trip is now within your grasp. In recent years, the race has done nothing but grow in popularity and the travel industry has jumped on this boat. Now there is an abundance of tours to choose from with many allowing you to view and even ride along various stages of the official Tour de France course.
Deciding to take a Tour de France trip is the first step. Next comes deciding on a budget. Since there are so many packages to choose from, knowing what you are willing to spend will help to narrow your options. Many Tour de France vacation packages are priced in a more moderate range, starting at around $1,000 per person and moving up from there. These packages usually include hotel accommodations in nice but modest hotels, some meals, a chance to view several different stages of the race, and the opportunity to ride a leg of the race yourself. They start at different stages of the race and can take you through different parts of the French countryside. Since the options are numerous, knowing in advance your budget and the parts of the Tour de France you want to see will help. Most of these tour packages don’t include airline tickets, so you’ve got to factor in that added expense.
For those of you on a more flexible budget, there are plenty of Tour de France trip options that’ll have you traveling in the style to which you have become accustomed. These tour packages generally include transportation to and from the events, first-class hotel accommodations, breakfasts and dinners, cocktail parties and banquets. Not only will you stay in some of the most beautiful parts of the French countryside, but you will also settle in for several days allowing you the opportunity to explore your surroundings. You’ll be able to view several stages of the Tour de France from some of the most prime locations. You’ll ride legs of the actual course on the same day as the professional riders, only you’ll leave several hours earlier. Again, since these are luxury tour packages, the price will reflect that and airline tickets likely won’t be included.
For anyone taking a Tour de France trip, there are several things you need to know to help make your overall trip more pleasurable. First, when booking a tour, you will be required to make a deposit and that deposit will not be refundable. Some tour companies will refund part of your deposit depending on the number of days in advance you cancel but will never refund the total amount. Second, if you do not plan to take your own bike, let the tour company know right away. Representatives can make rental arrangements for you but since, it’ll be an extremely busy time of year, the earlier they know the better. Tour companies will provide you with a bike box if you wish to bring your own bike.
Another consideration is your attire. Bring the clothes you are most comfortable biking in since that will be a major part of the trip. For evening dinners and other events, bring along some nicer clothing. Wearing shorts at dinner is not acceptable in France. Don’t over pack either because space will be limited. And finally, remember to have fun! This is an opportunity that doesn’t come around everyday so make sure you enjoy every bit of it.
Related:
