France with Normandy Safaris

We first became aware of Martin Reeve’s Normandy Safaris (57 Raley Rd., Locks Heath, Southampton S031 6PB, U.K.; phone 01489-576081, e-mail info@normandysafaris.co.uk or visit www.normandysafaris.co.uk) from a reader’s recommendation in ITN (Nov. ’02, pg. 79).

After planning the trip details via e-mail correspondence for several months, we took our 6-day/5-night tour in July ’03. Mr. Reeve normally limits his “safaris” to six participants, but he made an exception for our 7-member, 3-generation family group. The land cost was £530 (near $993) for each adult and £418 ($783) for our 10-year-old daughter. We received a small discount because we had a full group.

This was a fantastic way to see and learn about Normandy and its 1,000-year history. We stayed at a refurbished country manor owned and run by an English couple, Kit and Diana Wordsworth. They were delightful hosts. We had breakfast there each morning and three superb dinners, sharing interesting conversation with them.

Our “safari” included visits to the castles of Richard the Lionheart and William the Conqueror plus the Bayeux Tapestry, Monet’s gardens and home, Omaha Beach and other points of interest. Mr. Reeve shared his considerable knowledge of all these places before we visited them, making each stop on the tour more meaningful and enjoyable. He timed our visits so we were able to see the sites thoroughly yet not be rushed.

At lunchtime, we typically went to a supermarket, stocked up on bread, pâté, cheese and wine and had a picnic overlooking the Seine or the French countryside. Mr. Reeve provided china and silverware for our picnics. We also enjoyed stopping in village cafés.

As we look back, we’re amazed at how much we saw, did and learned during this trip. Mr. Reeve obviously put considerable effort into planning, organizing and conducting our tour. The result was an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.

STEPHEN WILSON
Roseville, MN