Chautauqua 2023 - France
Megaliths to Chateaux - 6000 Years of History in Brittany and the Loire Valley
This year's travel course continues our journey through Neolithic Europe, this time exploring ancient Brittany - recently suggested to be the origin point of the entire megalithic tradition. The second half of the course will explore the amazing castles and chateaux of the Loire Valley constructed from the 10th to the 17th centuries.
For people with an interest in...
History, architecture, archaeology, anthropology, archaeoastronomy, sociology, and other related science and social sciences fields.
Prerequisites
While not required, participants are encouraged to have at least some knowledge of the history of France and the Neolithic in Europe. Dr. Ed Barnhart can recommend readings for those interested in learning more before the trip. Day trips will involve walking in hot and humid weather. While it will not be physically challenging, participants in weak physical condition are encouraged to build strength and stamina before the trip.
Costs
$3100 per person (double room lodging)Add $700 for single room lodging supplement
$600 deposit due upon registration
50% balance due 90 days before the course (March 24)
Final balance due 30 days before the course (May 24)
Flights
Participants are responsible for arranging their own flight reservations to and from Paris and a one-way domestic flight from Paris to Nantes. Since participants come from all over the country, recommending a single flight is impossible. As of July 2022, round trip flights from New York to Paris are running just less than $600 on average from multiple airlines. A one-way from paris to Nantes on Air France is around $100. Of course, the airline industry is dependent on the market and fees are subject to change.Hotels During the Course
Nantes - Hotel Seven Urban Suites Nantes Centre or similarVannes - Kyriad Hotel Vannes City Centre or similar
Tours - The Grand Hotel of Tours or similar
Versailles - Hotel Le Louis Versailles Chateau or similar
Included
Lodging, private ground transportation, all entry fees, local professional guides in certain restricted locations and evening lectures. Digital copies of the presentations given during the course will be provided to each participant.Not Included
Airfare to/from Paris, one-way flight to Nantes, airport transfers to and from hotels in Nantes and Versailles, all meals, and gratuities.France (European) Visas
There are no special requirements for a tourist visa in France for US citizens, simply a US passport to show at immigration. Any entry fees should have been part of your airline ticket price.Its always a good idea to make sure your passport has at least six months left before expiration and one fully blank page free of stamps.
How to register for the course
To secure a place in the course, a $600 deposit to Ancient Explorations is required. The course is limited to 20 participants. Balance payments will be due in two installements - 50% due at 90 days before the course on March 24th and the remaining 50% due at 30 days before the course on May 24th.
You must also fill out the registration form (PDF) and email it to Ancient Explorations at info@ancientexploration.com. Or if you prefer, send a printed out copy to the address below.
Pay by check
Please send your deposit by check made out to Ancient Explorations to:Ancient Explorations
3267 Bee Caves Rd
Suite 107-161
Austin, TX 78746
Pay with PayPal
Course Itinerary
June 24-July 2, 2023
