After a change back to a different tour bus mid afternoon, and a stop at a brilliant 800-year-old village, we arrived at our new home on the Suite Ship Avalon Poetry II. We were shown to our Balcony View cabin on Deck 3 of 3. Our cabin was spacious with a brilliant layout. Our bed faced a FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOW. In front of the window was a pair of sitting chairs and a tea table. The windows slid open exposing a breathtaking view of the River, protected bt Balcony Rails. Once again, Brilliant. We enjoyed many evenings sitting up in our bed while the winding river passed by us and Castles and Vineyards came, then were gone. We were in Chalon Sur Saone, France, and the heart of Southern Burgundy. I swear you could already smell the grapes on the vine (My Immagination I am sure). Tonight we were briefed about the sailing, the location of everything on the ship, the Lounge where we were treated to our first of seven happy Hours, then to the superb Dining Room, where we were spoiled by the best dining crew on the River. We enjoyed wine again with dinner, while some folks enjoyed complimentary beer.

What was officially Day 4 took us to Tournus, the “pearl of Southern Burgundy. After a morning tour of the historical village, we opted for an optional Wine Tour to a Chardonnay Wine Cellar for a tasting and education. We learned how neatly the newly emerging vines were all trimmed “Tight and Low” like a Marine Battalion. We tasted, learned, tasted, learned, and —- I forget what came next! I think it was very educational, but I know for sure it was very tasty.

Barbara and Phil operate Leisure Travel Experts, a small business here in Mint Hill. They have been in business here since 1995 and have been on about 95 Cruises, and visited 40 countries. Call them at (980) 406-1650 or phil.angelo@leisuretravelexpert.com