Tout En Famille With Atout France

with Caroline Booth

For those travelling with little knights, pirates and princesses, finding the right destination and planning a vacation that the whole family will enjoy isn't always easy. To help ease the challenge, Atout France, the Tourism Development Agency for France, came to Toronto’s Old Mill Inn recently to spread the word about the many options available for a successful trip.

Representatives from the regions of Auvergne, Pays de la Loire, Aquitaine and Guadeloupe, as well as Club Med and luxury hotel Sofitel had much information to share on a French family holiday. And what better way to convey the message than to invite the little ones to get involved.

Kids were encouraged to dress in costume and participate in a hunt where they earned “treasures” while visiting each of the representative tables. From exploring medieval castles where real knights and princesses once lived, to visiting theme parks and getting up close to volcanos, visitors would be pleasantly surprised to learn that a vacation in France can certainly be unique.

According to Virginie Priou, public relations director for Pays de la Loire, the region sees mostly French and British tourists, but wants to encourage more Canadians to visit. Céline Boute, from Tourisme Aquitaine has observed that of the Canadians that do visit, language seems to dictate their actions. "Those from Quebec are OK to go off and explore on their own, whereas those from Ontario prefer more guidance."

For hands on fun, adults can take part in the "Be a Winemaker workshop" which lets you do just that. "Tourists want to be involved, not just watch." says Boute. "They have a chance to blend their own flavours and make their own bottle labels."

After a day in the vineyard or completing a bike tour through the countryside, everyone is going to need a good night’s sleep. Sofitel, boasting to be the only worldwide French luxury hotel group, can be found in several locations throughout the country.

Resort stays are an option too. Club Med properties include an extensive “Children’s Club” program that caters to children aged 4-17. “We want parents to know that they can relax while the kids have fun.” Says Marine Kaysen, Club Med Marketing Communications Manager.

If tropical sun with sand underfoot is desired, but clients still seek a touch of French flair, the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe could be the right fit. "When you come to Guadeloupe, you need to stay for a month!" said Maria Couturier of the Comité du Tourisme des Îles de Guadeloupe.

Having visited several times with her own family, she can attest that one week just isn’t enough time. “My kids eventually didn’t want to stay at the beach because there are so many other things to do.” Walking the suspension bridges along the top of the rain forest and riding in glass bottomed boats are sure to thrill any little pirate, bien sûr!