Useful information

From Paris

For train travel to or from Paris, we recommend the TGV (high-speed train). The official OuiGo site (www.ouigo.com), run by the SNCF, offers real discounts on certain destinations and times.

For example, a full-fare TGV ticket between Paris (Gare de Lyon) and Avignon is usually around €90 per person; via OuiGo, expect €30–50 if you book well in advance (note this train sometimes departs from Marne-la-Vallée, near Disneyland Paris).

There is a direct train between Avignon and Charles-de-Gaulle airport (Roissy). A city shuttle can work out cheaper, however, worth comparing when you book.

For travel within the region, we recommend never taking the TGV: the time saved is negligible. Prefer the regional express train (TER), enjoy the scenery and save money. All information, timetables and fares are on www.sncf-connect.com.

From Marseille-Provence airport (MRS)

Several options are available from Marseille airport to Avignon.

Shuttle + train: leaving the airport, take the shuttle to Vitrolles station (about 5 minutes). Then take the train towards Avignon Centre; timetables and fares are available a month ahead and bookable on www.oui.sncf. At Avignon Centre, taxis wait outside the station, or walk to most intra-muros hotels in about 15 minutes.

Taxis: a direct taxi to/from the airport.

Car with driver: we know private drivers, usually priced close to a taxi, who will wait for you. Let us know if this suits you.

From the Avignon stations

There are two main stations: Avignon TGV, on the outskirts, and Avignon Centre, just outside the city walls.

To travel between the two without a taxi or car, two options: Bus, line '10' links the station to the 'La Poste' post office, inside the walls (10–20 min depending on traffic), for about €1.40. Train, the 'La Virgule' shuttle links the two stations in 5–6 minutes, for about €1.60 (indicative fares).

If you wish to rent a car during your stay, we suggest www.autoeurope.com, which offers good rates.

To save money, avoid picking up or dropping off the car directly at an airport or station: a surcharge (tax) applies across France. All major companies have off-site offices, very close to stations and airports, just ask the agency where to collect the vehicle.

The French medical system is among the best in the world and remains affordable, even for foreign visitors. Our association is happy to help visitors with any medical issue or emergency, to the best of our ability. (European emergency number: 112.)

Our local members volunteer their time to accompany visitors and fund our cultural activities. A tip, or a meal invitation, is always appreciated but never required. In France, it is customary to tip guides, drivers, hotel staff and porters.

Tips are not included in the excursion participation fee. As a guide (source: Condé Nast Traveler): at restaurants, 'service included' means no tip is required, though many leave up to 10%; at hotels, ~€2 per bag; guides: ~€25/person/day; drivers: about half that; taxis: 10 to 15%.

Ultimately, the choice is always yours.

We are a registered non-profit: those who join us for an excursion become members. As we are not a business, we cannot accept credit cards except via the PayPal donation link (add 3.72% to the total to cover transaction fees). Payment is also possible by bank transfer in euros (fees at your expense) or in cash.

For a group of 8 to 15 people, payment is made in advance (PayPal +3.72% or transfer), as we settle rental fees before the excursion date.

If you cancel after paying by transfer or PayPal, we are unable to issue a refund; the excursion may, however, be rescheduled at no extra cost. Please tell us as early as possible if anything changes: our local members are volunteers who take time off work to accompany you.