Spain & France Family Vacation Review: Barcelona Fencing Class, Madrid Food Tour, Versailles Bike Tour, Paris Pastry Class

My family and I had a great time on our trip to Spain and France.  When planning the trip, I spoke with our travel planner who listened attentively as I described the pace of the trip we wanted and the type of experiences we enjoy.  I was later introduced to other travel specialist as well. We went through several drafts of the itinerary until the perfect plan came together.  In the end, I was glad to have good mix of tour guide-led days (which enabled us to see the historical highlights and learn their backstories) and free days (which gave us ample time to explore at our own pace).  The travel team team incorporated all the activities we expressed interest into the itinerary (fencing class in Barcelona, biking tour in Versailles, food tour in Madrid, pastry class in Paris).  All the guides and drivers were gracious and knowledgeable.  The hotels chosen were clean and in good locations that were accessible to main attractions and eateries.  Communication during the trip was smooth and I asked them for everything from restaurant recommendations to coordinating a doctor to visit me in the hotel when I sprained my ankle mid-way through the trip!  When I had my accident, the travel team went above and beyond to ensure that the rest of my trip went as smoothly as possible.  They picked up my medication prescription for me, got me crutches, and even delivered everything to my hotel room.  Because I had to miss the food tour scheduled that day, the planner even brought in some tapas to-go and some chocolates for me!  And without me even asking, they also coordinated that I would have wheel chair assistance at the airport.  Last but not least, they converted a walking tour of Paris to a driving tour since they knew I wouldn’t be able walk much after my accident.  I was very grateful and touched.