Petanque
This is a form of boules, very popular in France, similar to bocce or bowls. We were invited to watch several matches at a local club in Trevoux.
Object of the Game
VIDEO: A hollow metal ball is thrown as close as possible to a small wooden ball called a “cochonnet”. Watch this player in action!
He’s Got Flair
VIDEO: Note that each player has his own style of throwing. We spectators sat around the perimeter watching the demonstration while enjoying hors d’oeuvres & more local Beaujolais wine!
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
Going Local
Our floatng hotel, the AmaDagio, has pulled over to the bank, where we can walk off the gangway & step directly into the local landscape.
Walking Tour
Today we are going on a guided waking tour in Trevoux, all the way up the hill to the old parlimentary building. At the top of the town is a fortified chateau with an unusual octagonal tower.
Medieval Ramparts, Modern Life
Our narrated walk continued through the narrow streets of this charming village on the Saone River, past homes & businesses. Life went on as usual around us.
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
Navigating the Rivers
Our cruise sailed on both the Saone & Rhone Rivers south from Lyon to Arles. There are 10 locks on the Rhone operating during daylight hours. We passed through several & it was a fascinating process to watch.
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
Cooking School
Another tour in Lyon is a more hands on experience at In Cuisine pictured here adjacent to the central “Place Bellecour”, a large town square.
Audience Participation
Chef Jean instructs his assistant chefs on making Boeuf Lyonnaise -with wine vinegar. Plus wine to drink, of course.
Wine from Start to Finish
Chef Sophie shares & demonstrates some special finishing touches to the Poires a la Beaujolaise prepared by members of another small culinary team. Pears poached in Beaujolais wine. And more wine for drinking. Bien sur!
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
Fitness Onboard
It can be a challenge maintaining your regular fitness regimen while traveling. These ships have a Fitness Studio, Sun Deck walking track, sauna (select ships), and a heated whirlpool or swimming pool with swim-up bar (new ships).
photo courtesy of AmaWaterways
Got Wheels
I did see individual passengers going for an early morning walk or jog before breakfast or dinner. While guided small group bike tours are offered in specifc locations, you can also take one of the Ama bicycles out for a ride on your own.
photo courtesy of AmaWaterways
Calling all Golfers!
There is a putting green on the Sun Deck of the AmaBella so you can keep your putting skills up to par! (Sorry, I just couldn’t resist).
Who knew? Well, I did & now you do too!
Double Vision
The three newest ships, the AmaCerto, AmaVerde & AmaBella feature a NEW stateroom design with a unique twin balcony: a French Balcony, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door, plus a separate step-out Outside Balcony. Enjoy twice the view!
photo of twin balconies courtesy of AmaWaterways
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
Comfort
Staterooms are stylish & comfortable. In-room furnishings include plush down bedding, turn-down service, terry bathrobes & slippers. The bathroom features a shower with multi-jet shower heads, pus spa bath and body toiletries. And your steward/stewardess will deliver complimentary bottled water daily.
photo of the AmaVerde courtesy of AmaWaterways
Convenience
Each stateroom has a flat screen tv with a keyboard to access news, movies & music channels on the AmaWaterways Infotainment System free of charge. This line also provides complimentary internet & WiFi for its guests.
photo courtesy of AmaWaterways
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
Final Course
Our last stop was at Seve, Master Chocolatier & Pastry Chef. Notice the giant chocolate Easter Egg in the left corner.
A friendly staff member at Seve offered us each a piece of their freshly made red Praline Tart. Apparently, Lyon is famous for this particular dessert.
Some free time to explore on our own & perhaps shop before returning to our waiting ship.
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
Bon appetit!
Meanwhile back on our ship, the staff prepares the dining room for the next meal service. Multi-course lunch & dinner menus change every day. And guests with special dietary needs . . . including vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free & gluten-free cuisine and more . . . need not worry.
photo courtesy of AmaWaterways
Fromage
Don’t have much of a sweet tooth? Perhaps you would prefer to visit the cheese board after lunch or dinner on the ship.
For more delicious details, contact:
Jacintha Perera, culinary escape artist
Gourmet Getaways, a division of www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
916.897.9597
