Oliver Varban

Review of SmoothRed

Our trip to France was absolutely memorable! We ex...

Our trip to France was absolutely memorable! We experienced Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon and Nice over the course of 2 weeks and each location was a unique mini-vacation on it's own. This travel team did a phenomenal job at selecting hotels that truly encapsulated the feel of the city. They also coordinated the transport (both by air and train) along with drivers at each destination that were all professional and courteous. The team's recommended excursions were also spot on. Personalized and private wine tours with wine experts in Bordeaux, Lyon and Nice, a cooking class in Paris and even a ride in a Ferrari when we did a day trip to Monte Carlo! I can't say how important it is to speak with the agency when creating an itinerary because its important that they really know how you want to spend your vacation. Communication was also phenomenal before and during the trip to help with anything. The mark of a great agency is being available and responsive during the trip and they nailed that part perfectly. The itinerary was clear, well documented with contact info at every step (if needed). Tour guides were all extremely knowledgeable and genuinely fun to be around too.
What were the most enjoyable or memorable parts of your trip?
The cooking class in Paris was run by a Chef who was a delight to be around. He was beyond knowledgeable in the kitchen but also engaging. I learned more in that class than any other cooking class I've ever taken.
Our food-walking tour in Lyon was with our guide who was absolutely amazing. She had such a rich
We had a tour of Nice, Cannes and St. Paul de Vence with our guide, who provided a hilarious 'no filter' tour. That day, we also took a ferry to Lerins Island for lunch. The Island is known for it's ancient monastery and vineyard where monks still make their own wine.
Drinking out of the barrel and walking in the vineyards during the wine tours. The spa resort in Bordeaux is the perfect blend of luxury spa and rustic country living.
Paris night time river tour with dinner. At first it sounded really touristy but it was an awesome way to see so many iconic sites from a different perspective.
Going to Monte Carlo Casino in a Ferrari. You couldn't help but feel like James Bond for a s.
Dinner at the number 1 rated restaurant in the world. The travel team helped us snag a table for the ultimate bucket-list dinner that capped the trip in perfect style.