Cruise in the South of France on the Canal du Midi aboard the First Class Hotel-Barge ANJODI

SEVEN DAYS / SIX NIGHTS

The 8-passenger Anjodi had her beginnings in Holland and is of classic Dutch design. She was specifically rebuilt to navigate the 300-year-old Canal du Midi. She has been completely refurbished in the tasteful tradition of African hardwoods, hand-crafted paneling and shining brass, creating a comfortable and charming ambiance. The well-planned accommodations offer a choice of four air-conditioned twin or double bed staterooms, each with private bath. The sun deck is spacious and has a heated Jacuzzi. Anjodi's highly professional crew of four is comprised of Master Chef, Tour Guide and Stewardess and led by a knowledgeable and experienced Captain who will ensure your cruise is memorable and more!

Features

• Size of barge: 100 by 16.5 feet
• Number of Passengers: 8
• Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 4
• Crew: 4
  
• Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes.
• Salon: 2 sofas and a dining area, with picture windows.
  
• Bar: Open bar
• Deck: Deck with dining table, 2 steamer chairs, 8 reclining chairs and 2 parasols and jacuzzi
• Spa Tub: Yes
  
• Cabin Features: Four staterooms, all with twins or double bed: Lavande - 91 sq ft, Basilic - 87.5 sq ft, Thym - 98 sq ft, Romarin - 98 sq ft and ensuite bathrooms with shower
  
• Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: Air-conditioned 9-seater (including driver) long wheelbase VW Caravelle
  
• Accessibility: Steps to salon and cabins
  
• Bicycles: 8 18-speed touring bikes: 4 Dawes AT Bikes, 2 ladies AT bikes and 2 larger AT bikes

Anjodi's Deck Plan

Passenger Comments:

Our family had such a wonderful time largely due to the crew, their warmth and kindness and their attention to detail and concern for our comfort. They went out of their way to make our week special for us, and it was. The meals were all simply lovely, beautifully prepared and presented and the education we had about the wines as we sipped our way along was very well received. How wonderful to be together with our adult kids for the week - they all gave up the bulk of their holidays to do this and it was just a dream with lots of great memories.
-- P.L., Manitoba, Canada

We just returned from a cruise on the "Anjodi" and I had to let you know what a marvelous trip it was. We have chartered boats from Tahiti to Turkey and it was absolutely the most comfortable boat I've ever been on and incredible food. We were 4 couples who often travel together and we all agreed it was our best trip. The crew was outstanding - very professional and couldn't do enough for us. Rupert is a gem - very laid back but completely in charge. Michelle's food was to die for.
-- J.W. USA

Kiki and I have traveled a lot over the years and by many means but we have never received as good service as the crew on the Anjodi gave us. Gordon was very informative and his demeanor and presence was appropriate for a Captain of a ship. Michelle was extraordinary as a chef as far as selection, creation, and presentation but also went beyond with her every meal explanation of the menu and how it related to the local cuisine. Jenn was a real joy to have around helping us with our needs but really excelled in her wine selection and explanation. Tim was new but was intent on giving us info related to his tours and his helpfulness and willingness was certainly appreciated. Overall the crew was very upbeat and enthusiastic and coordinated their duties so well that we as guests did not feel any stress or anxiety and needed only to kick back and enjoy. The Anjodi is a great boat. The staterooms are large for a boat and saloon and deck are good sized for a group of four couples. And all on the Midi wanted to see the Jacuzzi! The Midi and the Anjodi and your Crew were a great experience.
-- N.R., FL, USA

On a scale of 1-10, it was 10++++! A very unusual, different way to vacation. Bathrooms very sufficient. Loved all the barge decor and lovely table settings every evening.
-- L.J., NJ, USA

One fine experience and we would repeat it in another region at our next earliest opportunity. Well promoted by SPT and exceptionally well executed by the crew.
-- B.F., CA, USA

The trip so was delightful and relaxing that I did not return feeling as if I needed another vacation!
-- H.S., NY, USA

Sunday - Le Somail
Passengers are met by the Captain at 4pm at the designated meeting hotel in Montpellier or at Montpellier TGV station and escorted by minibus to Anjodi, moored in the port of Le Somail. Champagne welcome followed by time to walk around the charming and historical village.  Dinner aboard.

Monday - Le Somail to Argeliers
Fascinating morning tour of Carcassonne.  Dating back to the Gallo-Roman era, this is the most complete medieval fortified city in existence today with its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defences, which resisted the many armies that tried to storm this glorious Camelot setting.  Afternoon cruise along the 330-year-old Midi canal to Argeliers through vineyards and pine trees.  Dinner aboard.

Tuesday - Argeliers to Poilhes
This morning's excursion is to Minerve, the ancient capital of the Minervois, which boasts a 12th century Cathar fort surrounded by deep limestone gorges.  Besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1215, its hilltop location affords spectacular views. A fascinating recreation in miniature of the bloodthirsty Cathar rebellion and small museum complete this intriguing picture. Cruise to Poilhes with magnificent views of the Pyrenees and enjoy a wine-tasting of the full-bodied Corbieres at the 500-year-old vineyard Domaine de Guery.   Dinner aboard.

Wednesday - Poilhes to Beziers
This morning's excursion is to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived.  Enjoy a visit to the Archbishop's Palace and Horreum.  Explore the indoor market at the hub of this bustling canal side town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the relaxed atmosphere. After lunch we cruise to Beziers via the world's oldest canal tunnel at Malpas, mooring at the top of the flight of 7 locks at Fonserannes followed by the descent of the lock flight to Beziers, crossing the aqueduct over the River Orb.   Dinner at a restaurant in Beziers.

Thursday - Beziers to Portiragnes
After breakfast we cruise to Portiragnes where the Canal du Midi is at its closest to the Mediterranean.  This afternoon we have an informative visit to Perdiguier, a local chateau, famous for its 15th century frescoes, where the production of wine is explained and the end product can be tasted. Maybe tonight you will enjoy an evening swim in the Med!   Dinner aboard.

Friday - Portiragnes to Marseillan
Anjodi sets off through the famous round lock and then the nature reserve of Bagnas, with potential sightings of flamingoes and other birds before heading out onto the inland saltwater lake of Thau, past the oyster beds.  After mooring in the fishing village of Marseillan, we take an excursion out to Pezenas, a delightful village, mostly famous for its associations with the famous French playwright Moliere, who is said to have written many plays while staying here.  Captain's Farewell Dinner aboard.

Saturday - Marseillan to Montpellier
After breakfast depart Marseillan by minibus and return to Montpellier centre or TGV station by 10am.

Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. Recommended train from Paris is TGV 6209 departing Paris Gare de Lyon at 11:20am on Sunday arriving Montpellier at 14:41pm.  Make your way to the Bodega du Lezard café at the train station.  Recommended TGV on Saturday is TGV 6208 departing at 10:21am from Montpellier, arriving Paris Gare de Lyon 13:49am.

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Anjodi 2010 Season Cruise Schedule* Week Route Season Mar 7 Beziers-Carcassonne Value Mar 14 Carcassonne-Beziers Value Mar 21 Beziers-Carcassonne Value Mar 28 Carcassonne-Beziers Value Apr 4 Beziers-Carcassonne Value Apr 11 Carcassonne-Beziers Value Apr 18 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Apr 25 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular May 2 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular May 9 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular May 16 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular May 23 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular May 30 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Jun 6 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular Jun 13 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Jun 20 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular Jun 27 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Jul 4 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular

Cruise Schedule* ... continued Week Route Season Jul 11 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Jul 18 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular Jul 25 Beziers-Carcassonne Value Aug 1 Carcassonne-Beziers Value Aug 8 Beziers-Carcassonne Value Aug 15 Carcassonne-Beziers Value Aug 22 Beziers-Carcassonne Value Aug 29 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular Sep 5 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Sep 12 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular Sep 19 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Sep 26 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular Oct 3 Beziers-Carcassonne Regular Oct 10 Carcassonne-Beziers Regular Oct 17 Beziers-Carcassonne Value Oct 24 Carcassonne-Beziers Value Oct 31 Agde-Avignon Value Nov 7 Avignon-Agde Value

Anjodi 2011 Season Cruise Schedule* Week Route Season Mar 6 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Mar 13 Le Somail-Marseillan Value Mar 20 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Mar 27 Le Somail-Marseillan Value Apr 3 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Apr 10 Le Somail-Marseillan Value Apr 17 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Apr 24 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular May 1 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular May 8 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular May 15 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular May 22 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular May 29 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular Jun 5 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular Jun 12 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular Jun 19 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular Jun 26 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular Jul 3 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular

Cruise Schedule* ... continued Week Route Season Jul 10 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular Jul 17 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular Jul 24 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Jul 31 Le Somail-Marseillan Value Aug 7 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Aug 14 Le Somail-Marseillan Value Aug 21 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Aug 28 Le Somail-Marseillan Value Sep 4 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular Sep 11 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular Sep 18 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular Sep 25 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular Oct 2 Marseillan-Le Somail Regular Oct 9 Le Somail-Marseillan Regular Oct 16 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Oct 23 Le Somail-Marseillan Value Oct 30 Marseillan-Le Somail Value Nov 6 Le Somail-Marseillan Value

*Note: Cruise directions and sample itineraries may be in reverse and are subject to change and may depend on bookings and local navigation conditions. Alternate excursions of equal appeal are substituted when needed. For charter cruises special itineraries can be arranged.

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ANJODI 2010 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS Same as 2009!
ACCOMMODATION	VALUE Mar 7 thru Apr 17 Jul 25 thru Aug 28 Oct 17 thru Nov 13	REGULAR Apr 18 thru Jul 24 Aug 29 thru Oct 16
Cabin (per person, double occupancy)	$3,990	$4,590
Single Occupancy Supplement	$1,450	$1,650
Charter for 6	$28,500	$32,100
Charter for 7	$29,500	$33,300
Charter for 8	$30,500	$34,500
Golf Cruise Supplement (per person)	$500	$500
Walking Charter Supplement for 6-8	$3,000	$3,000
Wine Cruise Charter Supplement for up to 8	$3,000	$3,000

ANJODI 2011 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS
ACCOMMODATION	VALUE Mar 6 thru Apr 23 Jul 24 thru Sep 3 Oct 16 thru Nov 12	REGULAR Apr 24 thru Jul 23 Sep 4 thru Oct 15
Cabin (per person, double occupancy)	$4,190	$4,790
Single Occupancy Supplement	$1,500	$1,700
Charter for 6	$29,500	$33,600
Charter for 7	$30,500	$34,800
Charter for 8	$31,500	$36,000

What's Included

- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge in a cabin with private bath
- transfers from Montpellier to the barge and return
- all meals beginning with dinner on Sunday through breakfast on Saturday
- all wines with lunches and dinners
- open bar
- all escorted side-excursions (hot air ballooning, golf, etc. at additional cost)
- use of bicycles

What's Not Included

- overseas air transportation to Paris and return
- transportation from Paris to Montpellier and return
- suggested 5-7% gratuity for the crew, to be paid in equivalent Euros to the captain

Special Places Travel, LLC "Barges in France (and the rest of Europe) ... for the experience of a lifetime!" ™ For booking information, Phone (toll-free): 1-877-64-BARGE (1-877-642-2743) Outside of the U.S.: 001.443.321.3614 or E-mail: info@specialplacestravel.com

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Last Update: May 21, 2010

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