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Origins of French Barge Tourism
- Barge tourism in France began in the 1960s when Richard Parsons transformed an old commercial barge into a hotel barge.
- His pioneering idea evolved into the luxurious barge experiences available today on thousands of kilometers of France's waterways.
Luxury Barges Save Waterways
- Commercial use of canals declined from the 1970s as government funding shifted to trains and highways.
- Luxury hotel barges now play a crucial role in preserving and using these historic waterways.
Distinctive Barge Destinations
- Les Bateaux Belmond offers luxurious barge cruises in Champagne, Burgundy, Provence, Camargue, and Midi regions.
- Each region provides unique scenery, historic sites, and world-renowned wines, making for diverse cruising experiences.