AboutPatrick Robichaud Expertise I travel to Paris each year and I'm well acquainted with restaurants, shops, hotels and the general layout of the arrondissements. I frequently create itineraries for my friends, including what to pack, how to travel, etc. I also frequent many out of the way places that are not in a lot of tour books, but that should NOT be missed.
Experience I visit France each March and stay for two weeks, living in an apartment. I frequent most non-tourist restaurants, bars and socialize with a lot of locals. I have very honest opinions...because I love this city and wish to dispell the misinformation that is out there regarding Paris and its citizens
Publications Overland Park Sun Newspaper, Kansas City Star, The Pitch
Education/Credentials French degree. Currently work as Marketing manager in a Fortune 100 Telecommunications company
Question Dear Patrick,
I am traveling to France by myself (the last minute my French speaking friend refused to go). I am coming to CDG on September 2 at 12 pm and I shall join the guided tour on September 6 from Paris to Provence. What is the best way to organize 3 days in Loire to see Amboise, Chambord, Villandry, Usse, Azay-le-Rideau and Chenanseu? Is it better to base in Tours or Blois? Shall I take a train and join some tour or I shall drive on my own? My concern with driving is that I do not know French and I’ve read many stories how people were getting lost for hours
The last question is I’ve read that some chateaus do special laser shows. Do you know which ones?
Thank you much!
Kind regards,
Elena
Answer Elena –
If you’re looking for architecture, I’d definitely look at Blois rather than Tours. It’s lovely with the bridge over the Loire and the Chateau in the city center.
Blois is close to Chateau de Chambord – 17km and Chateau de Cheverny – 16km
Tours might put you closer to more chateaux. I’ve added this website for you to review.
As for driving, if you feel comfortable, I would do that. Exploring at your own time and at your leisure can be incredibly enjoyable. Just get good maps or even rent a car with turn by turn directions. I know that Garmin has a European drivers aide in English which will give you turn by turn directions…although, the drive is easy and pleasurable.
I hope all this gives you a good start. If I’ve not provided enough detail or given you some things to consider, PLEASE let me know. I’m always available for follow up…except September 2nd through September 16th, as I’ll be in Paris and then driving through the Costa Brava area of Spain.
