This is a highly individualized question. If you are planning on working in the studio for the majority of time and are happy to tag along with whomever is going anywhere, then the answer is no. You should expect to contribute for fuel expenses for trips out of the village and en plein air excursions.
If your work is dependent on finding locations to paint, you want to explore the region, or you are a person that does not like being dependent on others, then the answer is yes.
It is possible to pick up a rental car at the airport or to rent one after you have obtained your bearings. Car rentals are also available in an adjacent town and can be arranged through Avis or Hertz on the Internet.
The driving laws and rules are similar to the states but have some important differences that should be studied before driving. The French use extensive signs with symbols that differ from the US. A valid US driver’s license is sufficient.
As unnerving as driving in a foreign country may be to some of you, the added confidence one has with this accomplishment is worth the effort.
Because of the necessary travel arrangements having to be made in advance, cancellations are not very numerous, however, if necessary the following guidelines apply to all reservations for workshops and accommodations. In the event of cancellation, payment will be refunded , less the following:
up to 30 days before arrival, 50.00 Euros per person.
within 30 days, no refund unless there is a waiting list and place can be filled.
Yes, travel to France and your return to the states, requires a valid passport. You should begin now to obtain your passport as it can take up to five weeks to obtain and may be required at the time of airline ticket purchase. Be sure to check your existing passport dates carefully and allow yourself plenty of time to renew if necessary. Airline travel requirements are very strict on this issue. I do not speak French, will I need to?
France is not geared to the non French speaking tourist, you will be sent a detailed package before your arrival with step by step instructions upon your arrival in France.
For all inclusive workshops you will be accompanied at all times by someone to assist you unless you choose to venture out, which is encouraged.
For non-inclusive stays full escort services, airport pick-up and other assistance can be arranged.
For all inclusive workshops: painting locations are chosen for easy assessibility. If you should choose to paint on location in Troyes, Provins, or Sens you will be expected to carry your supplies with you.
Europe, in general, is more physical than the United States, there are required steps in the metro, train stations, and some museums. La Bonne Etoile is not wheelchair accessible. La Bonne Etoile has one flight of stairs to the bedroom area.
Please contact staff for any special requests concerning accessibility issues.
For interested parties, the staff at La Bonne Etoile is willing assist in adapting all programs for groups with special needs. Can I extend my trip or come earlier?
Yes, the scheduling of the workshops have been made with the thought that participants may want to add more days to their overseas trip. Costs will be quoted depending on services desired during that time.
Please remind your loved ones that France is six hours LATER than the states. 4:00 PM EST is a good cutoff time to remember.
You will have Internet access for e-mailing your friends and family. I would suggest that you open either a Yahoo or Hotmail account if you don’t already have one and give it to your friends and family. These types of accounts are free and easy to access anywhere in the world.
If you already have an email address with your service provider, be sure that you have:
User name
Password
Domain address of your service provider
Important Numbers for you and your family
Please make a copy for your billfold and leave a copy of these numbers with someone in your family.
La Bonne Etoile 011.33.1.60.58.90.27
Kristina’s mobile 011.33.6.09.86.49.62
Jerome’s mobile 011.33.6.14.83.27.95
Atlanta voicemail/fax 770-216-1541
When calling in France, drop the 011.33 and add a beginning 0 to the remaining number.
for example, in France, La Bonne Etoile 01.60.58.90.27
