France: City of Light to Coastal Delight

France: City of Light to Coastal Delight

Join this reimagined tour of France that will inspire you with timeless charm, while immersing you in the dynamic modern culture of change. Get hands-on with a French cooking class, shop in the vibrant open-air markets and luxury brand boutiques. Go deeper and learn how people in the cities and in the countryside are working to make a more sustainable France, how women are using art to carve out greater equality, and how immigrants are expanding and enriching what it means to be French. You will collaborate with local experts to understand sustainable food practices on land and in the sea.

Explore Montmartre as an artist and learn to paint famous scenes of Paris. Sit in sidewalk cafes and watch the city unfold around you. Journey through the French countryside to the picturesque cities of Bordeaux, Arcachon, and Biarritz. From ordering a macaron at a boulangerie to buying fromage at a local market, you’ll use your French skills everywhere you go. Gain invaluable insight into the soul of France on this journey that will stay with you long after you have returned home.

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Program Profile
  • Country:
  • Department:
    Student
  • Duration:
    15 Days
  • Ages:
    14-18
  • Cost:
    $5,995 plus Airfare
  • Service Hours:
    10
  • At-A-Glance:

    Accomodation Amenities

    Adventure/Physicality

    Educational Activities

    On-Program Travel

Program Profile
  • Country:
  • Department:
    Student
  • Duration:
    15 Days
  • Ages:
    14-18
  • Cost:
    $5,995 plus Airfare
  • Service Hours:
    10
  • At-A-Glance:

    Accomodation Amenities

    Adventure/Physicality

    Educational Activities

    On-Program Travel

Paris

The City of Light, Paris, is the perfect place to get to know your travel companions. From the famous River Seine, to the iconic Eiffel Tower, and the numerous museums, cafés and restaurants, the city of Paris will enchant you as you start your journey. Settle into your lodgings for four nights in the city and get the chance to relax and enjoy the wonders of Paris.
We’ll tour a sustainable city garden and then tie on aprons to cook with fresh ingredients from the garden. While exploring the famous Montmartre district, we’ll join an art class and paint postcards we can send home. Our walking tour of the heart of the city will reveal hidden sides of famous sites like the Tuileries, Île de la Cité & Île Saint-Louis. There will be music, cafes, boutiques, and a film screening at one of Paris’ oldest cinemas before we leave the city.

Versailles

A visit to Versailles is a must for anyone looking to explore the history of the French Revolution. Spend a day here to understand the revolutionary period and the impact it had on France. As night falls, the beauty of the Palace of Versailles comes to life with the Royal Serenade, a musical stroll through the King’s apartments and the Hall of Mirrors.

Bordeaux

Exploring the beautiful city of Bordeaux is an experience that many visitors will never forget. Expert guides provide an extra layer of insight and knowledge about the city’s past and present. From the bustling city center to the lush greenery of the parklands, you will experience the beauty and history of Bordeaux up close.

Arcachon

Enjoy a two night stay in this amazing setting between the forest and the ocean. Arcachon, located on the Atlantic Ocean, is a mesmerizing destination. Its crystal clear beaches, and delicious seafood are just some of the reasons why visitors flock to this breathtaking destination. We’ll climb the highest sand dune in Europe, the Dune of Pilat. We’ll join oyster farmers in the Bay to learn how they are preserving their centuries old practice and protecting the natural environment. The biggest perk is getting to enjoy your fresh catch (if you’re willing!).

Biarritz and Pays Basque

Next we head further south to Biarritz and the Pays Basque, or Basque Country. We’ll begin by connecting with the local Surfrider Foundation for some time in the water and some service on the beach protecting this beautiful marine ecosystem.
Then, we head up into the rugged Pyrenees to immerse ourselves in Basque villages. Basque Country stands out as an independent nation with a unique history and culture. We’ll learn hands-on about one of the most famous local products – cheese. Stretch your legs on a hike up into the Pyrenees with a trek to the top of La Rhune for a famous 360-degree view of the Basque Country. The warm, vibrant communities of the Pays Basque will stay with us as we return for a final farewell to Paris.

Paris

We’ll spend our last night back in Paris in the most memorable way possible. Soak up the beautiful sights and sounds of the city as you drift along the River Seine on a night cruise. Marvel at the sights of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and other iconic landmarks.
The next day you’ll say au revoir to this French adventure. But, you’ll keep your memories and your new friends with you forever.

Packing the right gear (and the right amounts) is the first step to an incredible travel experience. Follow these tips to pack like a pro:

Travel light. Pack only the essentials. You’ll need less than you think! You’ll need to carry your luggage on and off trains and metros during this program, so pack something you can carry well.
Consider no checked bag. We strongly recommend that you consider packing only a carry-on size bag. This prevents your luggage getting lost or separated from you, keeps your bag manageable, and helps you be more mobile on your travel day.
Bring the right clothes. Pack clothes that are culturally appropriate for your destination and acceptable for service projects. This means bringing long shorts (think Bermuda and basketball shorts), t-shirts with sleeves to cover shoulders, and appropriate footwear.
Leave your valuables behind. While traveling, it’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep any prized possessions safe at home.
Check with TSA. Make sure your luggage complies with TSA regulations, especially your carry-on. Useful tip: Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after security.
Extra paperwork? If you need additional forms filled out to get credit for your service hours, no problem! Bring these forms with you so they can be completed in-country.

Daypack

A school backpack is ideal as it will be used for daily activities and outings.

  • Passport
  • Photocopy of passport
  • Wallet and money (USD or EUR)
  • Book and/or journal
  • Pen
  • Phone
  • Camera
  • Music player
  • Change of clothes
  • Water bottle
  • Medication
  • Visa documentation (if applicable)
  • Camera
  • Chargers
  • Electrical adapter/converter (220 volt – European two round pin plug)
  • Consent to Travel Letter (for students under 19, recommended by the U.S. State Dept. but not required)
  • Rustic Pathways emergency contacts
  • Arrival instructions
Main Luggage

A 40-50 liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal. Be sure it is something you can walk with through train stations and on and off metros.

  • Socks (8-9)
  • Underwear (8-9)
  • Pants/capris (2)
  • Jeans (1-2)
  • Shorts (1-2)
  • Tank Tops (3)
  • T-shirts (8)
  • Dresses/skirts (2)
  • Sweater/fleece (1)
  • Warm jacket (fleece or puff)
  • Pajamas
  • Swimsuit
  • Beach towel/sarong
  • Rain jacket
  • Sandals or flip-flops
  • Sneakers/running shoes (1)
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
Toiletries

Travel size bottles in Ziploc bags.

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash
  • Face wash
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Oxybenzone-free sunscreen (reef-safe)
  • Bug spray
  • Contacts and solution
  • Foam ear plugs
  • Personal med kit
  • Deodorant (no aerosols)
  • Wet wipes
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Razor/shaving cream
Optional
  • Portable games (Bananagrams, cards, etc.)
  • Musical instrument (guitar etc.)