Ethics on the Rhône: Tensions in the History of France
A 2024 Saint Anselm Center for Ethics Rhône River Cruise
Aboard the AmaKristina
October 17 – October 24, 2024
Join the Center for Ethics in Society at Saint Anselm College aboard the AmaKristina for a memorable seven-night journey on the Saone and Rhone Rivers as we explore fascinating moments in the history of France. From October 17 through 24, participants will travel by riverboat from Arles to Lyons with stops at UNESCO world heritage sites, historic Roman ruins, beautiful cathedrals, old castles, hilltop villages, art museums, cafes, and vineyards. Travelers will have an option of several days in Barcelona before and/or Paris after. The excursions, readings, lectures and discussions will uncover tensions within the rich history of the region, including Caesar’s conquest of Gaul, the struggle of the papacy in Avignon, ruthlessness during the French Revolution, Van Gogh’s troubled stay in Arles, collaboration and resistance during WWII, and even issues in modern French culture and politics. Registrations are limited so as to promote a more personalized experience, common gatherings, and an experience of Saint Anselm community.
For more Information or to make a reservation contact Cruise Travel Outlet at 603-894-7245 x 251 and Mention the Saint Anselm.
Or contact Laura at 603-212-5068.
Inclusive Pricing
- All gourmet meals onboard (Early Riser Coffee and Croissants, a Rich Breakfast, a Festive Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Coffee with Cake & Sandwiches and a Multi-Course Dinner
- Unlimited red and white wine from the local regions as well as beer and sodas during meals
- Choice of dining options at no additional cost including the main dining salon or an intimate Chef’s Table Restaurant for up to 36 guests where the chef prepares the meal in person.
- Free coffee, tea, ice-water and iced-tea are included all day. Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso can also be requested free of charge during all meals! Complimentary coffee & tea station available 24 hours.
- Captain’s Welcome Champagne Reception & Gala Dinner as well as
- Captain’s Farewell Champagne Reception & Gala Dinner plus several Theme Dinners
- Complimentary cocktail hour offering a “Happy Hour Menu” one hour before dinner on 5 evenings; Captain’s Receptions on the other 2 evenings
- Bottled water, fluffy bathrobes and slippers are provided free of charge in each cabin
- Use of the fitness area and fitness equipment inside
- Complimentary Wellness Program with qualified fitness instructor
- Use of the bicycles and helmets free of charge
- Unlimited internet onboard – strictly subject to availability
- Complimentary in-cabin movies
For more Information or to make a reservation contact Cruise Travel Outlet at 603-894-7245 x 251 and Mention the Saint Anselm.
Or contact Laura at 603-212-5068.
AmaKristina Overview
With AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Kristin Karst serving as AmaKristina’s Godmother, you know you’ll have a distinctive experience aboard this phenomenal, award-winning river ship. Both a French and outside balcony in most staterooms allow you to enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish. In the marble bathroom, enjoy multi-jet showerheads, soothing bath and body products, cozy robes and hair dryers. Suites feature added enhancements, including a larger sitting area and an expansive bathroom complete with a bathtub and separate shower. AmaKristina also includes a massage and hair salon, gift shop, specialty coffee station, heated pool with swim-up bar, fitness center, sun-deck walking track and a fleet of onboard bikes. Her Main Restaurant is a taste of the outdoors, with vines and branches infused in the décor, and expert chefs preparing our signature exquisite cuisine with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients—both in the Main Restaurant and at The Chef’s Table.
Twin Balconies
Enjoy Panoramic Views and plenty of fresh air in our lavish twin-balcony staterooms that feature both a French balcony and an outside Balcony.
Sun-Deck Pool
Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.
Sightseeing by Bike
Some ports have guided bike tours, but there is always a fleet of complimentary bikes on AmaLea so passengers can explore the destinations on their own.
Award-Winning Dining
Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.
Massage and Hair Salon
After a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.
Enriching Entertainment
Whether it’s a folkloric performance, local quartet, serenade of Parisian classics or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.
For more Information or to make a reservation contact Cruise Travel Outlet at 603-894-7245 x 251 and Mention the Saint Anselm.
Or contact Laura at 603-212-5068.
2024 Ethics on the Rhône
Note: (B)-Breakfast, (L)-Lunch, (D)-Dinner Included
7 NIGHTS ∙ EMBARK IN ARLES, FRANCE AND RETURN FROM LYON, FRANCE
From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Embark in Arles and trace the steps of famous artists in Arles and onward to Avignon where you’ll find yourself in a sprawling commune with an overwhelming array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, intriguing art museums and historic charm. Savor the beauty of legendary vineyards and imbibe in local vintages like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. You can even become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles and learn how to pair chocolate with wine.
Day 1, ARLES – EMBARKATION.
Board the ship for your Colors of Provence cruise. (D)
Day 2, ARLES.
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles enchants all with its tantalizing history, formerly a Roman center of trade. Join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. 2024 COLORS OF PROVENCE FC AmaWaterways – Marketing Detailed Itinerary July 12, 2023 Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. And for those who wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. During the afternoon, venture to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village and ruined castle. Enjoy time in the “old village,” its shops, art galleries, and cafes interspersed among the historic ruins. You will also have a unique experience at the Carrières de Lumières, where you will be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound, and history projected on the walls of a former limestone quarry set to music. Next, visit an olive farm to learn about this age-old Provençal tradition and enjoy a tasting. Finally, experience the beauty of Saint Rémy de Provence, the location where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous paintings, including Starry Night. (B,L,D)
Tours: Arles Walking Tour OR Bike tour OR Van Gogh walking tour Les Baux de Provence
Day 2/3, AVIGNON.
Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Depending on your interests, you have three choices of excursions in the morning. Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or, you can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. Alternately, you can enjoy a bike tour through the city. During the afternoon, you can go to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. (B,L,D)
Tours: Morning walking tour and Papal Palace OR Avignon Bike Tour OR Tastes of Avignon Pont Du Gard
Day 4, VIVIERS.
Take in the quaint surroundings of Viviers, a charming commune that sidles up to the right bank of the Rhone. From Viviers, travel to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan, and go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. You can also explore Viviers on a guided walking tour, where you’ll see iconic sights such as Saint-Vincent Cathedral. Or stretch your muscles on a hike to Viviers’ St. Vincent Cathedral, taking in beautiful views of the Châteauneuf du Pape dam, the Donzère Gorge and the town of Montelimar with its magnificent château. Alternatively, set off on a guided bike tour, exploring the beauty of Southern France as you ride along the Rhône River. (B,L,D)
Tours: Grignan Truffle Farm OR Viviers Walking Tour OR Viviers Hike OR Viviers Bike Tour
Day 4/5, TOURNON.
Take a steam train ride past magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux, stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthélemy le Plain, where the train maneuvers in preparation for its return journey. Alternatively, lovers of wine and chocolate will want to visit Le Château de Tournon for a presentation and tasting on the pairing of red wine and chocolate. For a more active adventure, take a hike through the vineyards of Tain l’Hermitage, followed by a visit to a local winery where you’ll sample some of the wines. (B,L,D)
Tours: Steam train ride OR Red Wine & Chocolate OR Hermitage Hike & Wine Tasting
Day 5/6, VIENNE.
Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. Follow the footsteps of the ancient Romans on a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey—one of the oldest surviving churches in France, and now an Archaeological Museum. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route. (B,L,D)
Tours: Roman ruins walking tour OR Mount Pipet hike OR ViaRhôna bike tour
Day 6/7, LYON.
Take a walking tour that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be 2024 COLORS OF PROVENCE FC AmaWaterways – Marketing Detailed Itinerary July 12, 2023 introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” You can also visit the famous indoor market hall Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, named after the late chef renowned for his Michelin-starred l’Auberge du Pont de Collonges restaurant. There you’ll have a chance to sample of the delicacies offered by butchers, bakers, chocolatiers and cheesemongers while taking in the colorful sights and enticing aromas around you. Alternately, join a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. Later in the day, visit a traditional Beaujolais winery and learn the history and techniques of their vineyard. Plus, enjoy a tasting of their specialty. (B,L,D)
Tours: Lyon City Tour OR Les Halles Market Tour OR Lyon Bike Tour
Day 8, LYON – DISEMBARKATION.
Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Lyon as you prepare for your flight home. (B)