As foodies we have always been enamored of French cuisine and of course, its high priestess Julia Child. Could we be more pleased and excited with the advent of the fun new movie Julie & Julia? Non!

With all the buzz, we decided to create our own tribute to Julia, by way of a truly special epicurean adventure channeling the beloved cook's early days in "her" Paris and Provence. We know her devotees, and her growing legion of new fans will be deliciously ecstatic.

The package's itinerary has been designed by Tour de Forks' French associates Kathy Morton and Debra Fioritto, recipients of the 2006 Julia Child Endowment Fund Scholarship. Kathy and Debra drew from their own extensive expertise - they too, consider France their spiritual homeland - and their well-worn copies of Julia's treasured memoir My Life in France.

The adventure begins in Paris and includes three nights at the Left Bank's legendary Hotel Pont Royal where Julia and her husband Paul first stayed. Stroll through her arrondissement; visit museums and explore the colorful markets where she loved to shop. Dine in the very same bistros and brasseries whose food contributed to her love affair with la belle France. The pièce de résistance? A lesson at Julia's alma mater, the illustrious Le Cordon Bleu.

Then, off by rail - via the high-speed TGV to Provence. Spend one night in Les Baux at Oustau de Baumaniere and three nights at Chateau de la Begude. You'll explore Julia's past haunts including a visit to her former home, the charming farmhouse La Pitchoune. Add your own ingredients to make this adventure one you will always remember.

WHAT A GREAT GIRLFRIEND'S GETAWAY!

Priced from $2,450 USD

Package Includes:
Seven nights hotel (Hotel Pont Royal in Paris, L'Oustau de Baumaniere, Chateau de la Begude); Coupe de Champagne upon arrival in Paris; Daily breakfast; culinary experience at Le Cordon Bleu; One way 1st class train ticket Paris - Avignon; Detailed itinerary with directions - walking routes and Metro stops - activities and restaurant recommendations; Optional 3 day extension to Normandy

Guided Adventure

A more structured option that includes guide services for the itinerary suited to the participants' requests including walking or car and driver.

This package is priced from $2,450 per person basedon the Independent Adventure option and the hotels listed. With a nod to today's economy, and for frugal foodieswe offer lower priced accommodations. Details and pricing available upon request.

A Taste of Julia Child's Paris & Provence is also available for groups and depending on dates, can be escorted by Kathy Morton and Debra Fioritto.

Not Included:

International and domestic airfares; excess baggage charges; airport arrival and departure taxes; travel insurance; meals, wines, sightseeing; personal expenses such as laundry and communication charges; gratuities, email/fax/telephone charges, and hotel minibar.