The comments below are those of Paris Luxury Tour clients who have experienced our private Paris tours, day tours from Paris, France guided tours and wine tours in France. Most are willing to share their experiences directly with you by phone, if you would like to speak with them. Let us know with whom you would like to speak and we will solicit their permission to provide you with their telephone number.
9 June 2008
Dear Shahin,
Once again, thank you for a wonderful trip. You asked for a comment on your firm and the itinerary [Six day custom tour of Normandy and Brittany]. Firstly, as you know, we have traveled extensively and have used private driver/guide individual tours in several countries, all of which we have enjoyed. This trip surpassed all the other experiences with the pleasant, responsive and professional service. Our emails allowed us to tailor the trip to exactly what we wanted. Our accommodation was superb, the only less than ideal hotel was the one we chose! The timing, pace, lunch arrangements, adaptability to weather, traffic and other changes were outstanding. We did, of course, have the extra bonus of your company.
We would strongly recommend your firm and will use it on any return trip to France.
Warmest regards,
Alistair and Mary-Pat Cowen
Brisbane, Australia
28 January 2008
Hi Shahin,
How do we distill it all into a few sentences, our delight at the fabulous service you provided while we were in Paris last week [Paris Overview Tour, Paris Museums Tour, Versailles Chateau and Park Tour, and Paris Gastronomy Tour]. The fastest way I can think of is to say that on a scale of 1 to 10, your service was a 15!!!!!!! Our Paris Overview Tour was complete enough to give us, very quickly, the sense of Paris the "village" instead of a big bewildering city where we didn't speak the language! The Museum tour was absolutely delightful and detailed enough to satisfy but not overwhelm. The patience in which you showed in our gourmet foods and everything else in between day was also outstanding!!! We shall definitely return again for another visit with you as soon as we can, and would most certainly recommend your company and services to one and all. THANK YOU very much for making a special trip to Paris even more memorable!
All the best,
Bernice and Wee Kit Tang
Singapore
20 January 2008
Dear Shahin
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the wonderful arrangements which you arranged for my-self and my partner, Gwen Walters and our friends Bernard and Yvonne McMahon for the tours of the wine regions in Champagne, Burgundy and Bordeaux in August 2007. Although we are all experienced international travellers we were all greatly impressed with the thoughtful preparation of the itineraries and the attention to detail appearing in those itineraries but also with your flexibility in dealing with our particular requirements both before and during the tours.
There are too many highlights of the tours of each region to identify them all. The visit to the cellars at Ruinart near Reims and the opportunity to stay at Le Cep in Beaune were very memorable. The opportunity to visit some of the wineries of Burgundy (especially Clos de Vougeot and Chateau de Pommard) and the wonderful restaurants which you suggested, was greatly appreciated. We all particularly enjoyed the opportunity to visit the town of the Chablis and the winery of William Fevre where we had a wonderful and entertaining individual wine tasting followed by a great lunch at the adjoining restaurant.
Our tour to Bordeaux was equally as impressive and the train journeys to and from Paris were very well organised and trouble free. The variety of the countryside in the Bordeaux region is wonderful and the lunch in Pauillac on the river was special. The Chateau Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is a unique experience as was in the case with Chateau Leoville [Las Cases] at St Julien where we received individual attention from an enthusiastic staff assisted by your translation skills.
We would have no hesitation in recommending the services of Paris Luxury Wine Tours to anyone who have not done so. In particular, we wish to thank you for your personal contribution and your ability to impart your great knowledge of France and the regions we have visited, but also generally for your excellent company on our tours.
We look forward to arranging another tour with you in France.
Yours faithfully
Stephen Godding
Clontarf, NSW, Australia
January 1, 2008
Diane and I loved our day with you in the Loire Valley [Loire Valley Wines Day Tour]. A great highlight of our visit! Nothing but spectacular reception from each, and great information and learning. Both wineries [Henri Bourgeois in Chavignol and Ladoucette at the Chateau de Nozet in St. Andelain] were unique in their own ways..... Warm regards,
Janie O'Connor
Washington DC
December 12, 2007
Shahin,
Patrick and I are home this morning and reflecting on our time in Paris, and definitely consider the day in the Champagne region a highlight [Classic Paris Luxury Tour of Champagne]. The tour from start to end was extraordinary. We learned so much about champagne, and the history and science that goes into making the perfect glass.
Your warmth and ease was so delightful to be with. Your planning and knowledge was more than expected and so appreciated. Patrick and I will in the years to come treasure such good memories of the beautiful [Champagne] region and drink champagne (Bollinger, of course), with a new sense of knowledge and wisdom.
Looking forward to a future tour, and spending the day learning about Napoleon's Paris. The boys and you can spend the day together, and I will meet your wife and learn the shopping in Paris!
Take care,
Kristen Moore
Dallas, Texas
December 1, 2007
Dear Shahin
France seems eons away now - but we really did enjoy our trip with you to the Champagne district [Classic Paris Luxury Tour of Champagne].
On the Friday we did a tour with "Cityrama," I think they were called, 40 or so on a bus - information given in Russian and rather broken English!!! and it made us realise just how fortunate we were to have had our experience with you.
One could not compare the price of the two tours, but one could not compare the quality of the tour offered either. No doubt your company offers "top of the range" tours (as the name suggests) price-wise and quality-wise, but my family and I agreed the trip you gave us was well worth the money.
I do hope all those strikes we are hearing about, in France, have settled down and this email finds you well,
With Christmas wishes and regards from Scott, Trudy, Henry and myself,
Catherine Davies
Sydney, Australia
20 November 2007
Dear Shahin,
Renee and I want to thank you profusely for planning and executing
the highlight of our first and only visit to France. I refer, of
course, to the helicopter trip from Paris to Mont Saint Michel to the
Normandy beaches and back to Paris [Combined day tour from Paris by helicopter of Mont Saint Michel and US sector of Normandy Landing Beaches]. It would have been impossible to cover this much ground any other way.
We are extremely appreciative of the meticulous planning for car and driver to meet us at each location as well as your most informative and fascinating narratives as we flew over countrysides, toured the Mont and the historical battle areas. As a veteran of World War II Pacific arena, I was profoundly impressed with the reminders of the sacrifices made by so many for the benefit of our two countries. I was unaware of the donation by the French government of the cemetery site on which over 9000 of my fallen
comrades are buried ON AMERICAN SOIL; what a meaningful gesture!
Our three-week trip to France was a 'trip of a lifetime' for us. A
wonderful 10 days in Paris. A fascinating tour of the Alsace area from
which my grand parents came. Without question, the trip would have been
much less spectacular were it not for your most professional aid. We appreciated also your help with our room in Paris when we in a quandary on two separate occasions. That help was truly above and beyond the call of duty.
We wish you and your Berkeley Bear wife the very best....
Reed and Renee Robbins
Stockton, California
October 31, 2007
Dear Shahin:
I wanted to let you know what a wonderful time I had on our tours in Paris, Versailles and Normandy with both you and Philippe. [Paris Overview Tour, Versailles Chateau and Park Tour, and Normandy Landing Beaches Tour] Philippe was a wonderful guide in both Versailles and Normandy. His passion for Normandy really showed. We thought that you couldn't have picked a better person for us. Shahin your guide on the overview was over the top grand. I would recommend you to anyone. My only regret was that we didn't have enough time in Paris to get to all the places you pointed out to us.
Health and happiness to you and Philippe for your kindness.
Michelle Baker
Ashland, Oregon
October 21, 2007
Dear Shahin:
Nicola, Lela and I thank you for taking us around Paris for four whole days [Versailles Chateau and Park Tour, Paris Gastronomy Tour, Paris Overview Tour and Chantilly Tour]. We had a great time. Nicola and Lela keep telling their friends how good the Gastronomy Tour was and what they have eaten. All Lela's friends asked for your name and pledged to engage your service when they come to Paris. I learned much from your insight about the history and culture of France and the various establishments. You did an excellent job.
Thank you so much in making us trip so wonderful. Hopefully we will see each other very soon.
Best regards,
Felix Kwan
Doha Qatar
October 8, 2007
Dear Shahin,
We have come home safe and sound and I am glad to write a testimonial on what a great time we had with both you and Philippe. We all thought that you couldn't have picked a better person to take us on our tours, especially Normandy, than Philippe. We had a great time. When you have to spend all day with people, it is wonderful to have someone that is easy to get along with. We were amazed at his knowledge of the events in Normandy. You can rest assured that Philippe was a great choice and I am recommending you, Philippe and your company to anyone interested in a private tour.
Once again, thank you for 3 great days in France [Paris Overview Tour, Versailles Chateau and Park Tour, and Normandy Landing Beaches Tour] that none of us are going to forget. Our trip was all we wanted it to be because of you and your people.
Sincerely,
Kyle Converse
Fremont, Michigan
September 19, 2007
Dear Shahin,
Carol and I wanted to thank you for the two exclusive tours you gave us [Baron Haussmann's Paris Tour and Impressionist Art in Paris & the Ile de France] while we were
visiting Paris this September. The tour of Haussmann's Paris and the tour of the
country locations of the Impressionists were both excellent.
We were impressed by your knowledge of the subjects and appreciated the background
history and related information. You clearly did a lot of work to prepare, and this made
the tours so much more informative and enjoyable.
It's clear that your company serves those of us who are looking for something more
than the usual tour of the main sights and attractions. In Paris and the surrounding
country-side there's so much more to explore, that relate to our personal interests. You
served this need very well, perhaps uniquely, and I would recommend your company to
anyone who wants to explore and learn more about the history of France and its
people.
Sincerely,
Michael and Carol Ramsay
Edinburgh, Scotland
9 September 2007
We just returned home last night...
We wanted to thank you for starting out our trip on an
extremely high note. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting
you, learned a lot and in particular appreciated how
you were able to keep the kids so well engaged.
We will certainly pass your name along to friends who
are going to Paris.
Thanks again making this a wonderful trip.
P.Y.
Stamford, CA
30 July 2007
Dear Shahin,
Over the past week we found ourselves referring repeatedly to our time spent with you. [Paris Overview Tour and Versailles Chateau and Park Tour].
Of course Paris is a glorious city, and you really know how to make it come alive through stories. But for us the biggest treat was meeting you and having time together.
You truly enriched our lives for those few days by filling our memories with your kindly spirit.
My initial reactions hold.
We are lucky, very lucky.
Best regards,
C.Y.
Atherton, CA
19 July 2007
We both want to thank you for the wonderful time you showed us. We could not have seen or experienced Paris without your historic knowledge and command of the language. Not only do you take us to all the usual places that everyone must visit in order to "see" Paris, but, when I threw you a curve ball by coming up with a cafe that I had read about in a Travel and Leisure magazine, you knew exactly what cafe I had read about and worked a visit into our itinerary. You were a wonderful host and we both came away with a great love of Paris. Thanks again for such a wonderful view of Paris.
John and Carol Barker
Fort Lauderdale, FL
14 June 2007
Hi Shahin
Finally, I have a chance to write you and thank you for providing us with a wonderful vacation [One week of tours: Paris Overview Tour, Tour of Versailles Chateau and Park, Tour of Paris Gardens, Paris Museums Tour and Day Tour of Loire Valley Chateaux]. We had a great time and you were a wonderful guide and driver..... our photos turned out great and we can look upon this trip as one of great memories.
I hope this email finds you well and that you are busy, busy, busy. We are getting ready to head for Hawaii in two weeks. We plan a 17 day trip to the Big Island. Again thank you for everything. You gave us a view of Paris that we would have definitely missed without you. Should you ever need a reference, please let me know.
Ardy Sixkiller Clarke
Boseman, Montana
June 9, 2007
Hello Shahin,
While I was planning my trip to France I knew that I wanted to see the D-Day beaches as well as Mont St. Michel. I looked at what seemed like everywhere on the internet and found only one company willing to provide this tour. All of the other companies I contacted said that the tour was not possible.
When I contacted Paris Luxury Tours, I was told that it was feasible and that whatever itinerary I could come up with, they would try to make it work. Our tour guide met us at our hotel at the time we had agreed upon. We were able to see everything that we wanted to see at the D-Day beaches as well as Mont St Michel.
It was a long day, but our guide made the day seem short. We had lunch at a very good local restaurant in the French countryside. It was a wonderful experience. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the sites we visited. He was also very knowledgeable about pretty much everything else we threw at him: culture, history, wine, food, flowers, it didn't matter---our guide was able to answer all of our questions. He grew up in the US, and I think that helped him to compare and contrast the French culture to our own. Things seem to make more sense when you can relate it to something.
Honestly, I was a little nervous about what I would get with this tour, but now that it has taken place, I don't think that I could have planned a better tour. It far exceeded my expectations and I would recommend Paris Luxury Tours to anyone that is interested in a knowledgeable, personalized tour.
Stuart Featherston
Springfield, Missouri
June 9, 2007
I am the owner of a fine wine store in Sydney, Australia, and am very experienced in the wine industry. I have done several wine tours and have seen many wine regions around the world.
Out of all my experiences the tour [Classic Paris Luxury Tour of Champagne] with Paris Luxury Tours with Shahin as our guide was by far the most memorable and exciting tour I have ever done.
My girlfriend did not have the same passion as me about wine before we went but she loved the tour just as much. All our visits were fantastic and the restaurant we had lunch at was exquisite [Les Vieux Puits in Ay].
Shahin's knowledge and contacts in the area are second to none, his passion for wine really does rub off on you!
Highly recommended to all wine lovers and travelers alike.
Richard Bowen
Sydney, Australia
June 4, 2007
Dear Shahin,
Remember me? You took my 80 year old friend, Harriet, and I from Paris/Monparnasse to Vezelay last October, along with a visit to the Abbaye de Fontenay. You delivered us to Vezelay to our hotel so promptly that evening.
I write to tell you a very big HEARTFELT THANK YOU!!!!!!!! Both Harriet and I had an amazingly lovely time with you, and found your service (Paris Luxury Tours) to be impeccable and everything we could possibly have wanted and more. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!. Harriet still to this day talks about her wonderful new-found Iranian friend and the explorations we took and the countryside we saw, and that meal we ate!!!. She (and I) had so much fun and learned so much and we both just thoroughly enjoyed spending time with you.
In any case, please accept my most heartfelt THANK YOU for such an incredible service. You and your company are amazing. I know you will go very far. And, if you ever want to use me as a personal reference, please feel free to do so. I would be most honored to do so. My address and phone number are below, and you have my email.
Finally…if you and your wife/family are ever in Seattle….please feel free to call/look me up. While we live rather modestly, we love to show people Seattle and we'd be honored to have you be our guests in the City, even if just for a meal! I know my husband, John, would enjoy your company very much. He was so happy that both Harriet and I were so extraordinarily taken care of.
I hope this find life treating you well, Shahin. It was indeed a pleasure and a privilege to have met you, and have you provide such excellent travel services to us. Next time I come to Paris…I'll be sure to call!
Pamela Sampel
Seattle, Washington
May 9, 2007
Shahin:
The ladies loved your tour [Custom tour of Paris for 6], and they especially loved you! We thought you were very informative. I'll be sure to recommend you to others, and if I plan another trip for a group I will want to use you. Please keep in touch.
Stella Stots
New York, New York
April 27, 2007
Dear Shahin,
I just wanted to take the time to thank you so very much for the two lovely days my daughter and I had with you [Paris Overview and Versailles Tours].
Picking us up at the Eurostar and dropping off our luggage and then [having] the informative Paris tour was a great way to start the holiday. It was amazing: all the little 'secrets' of Paris that you shared. Not to put that lightly, but it was amazing how you can maneuver around Paris and find great stopping points to park and get around. So many sights to remember and notably, Notre Dame was so, so beautiful.
The following day to be picked up at the hotel and take the beautiful tour of Versailles was a lifetime 'moment' for me. Even with the crowds there, it seemed so much more personal with you. The tour was outstanding and the gardens and the other chateaux were breathtaking. Not to mention the delicious lunch.
Shahin, it will long be remembered and we most certainly will contact you on our next trip.
With warm regards,
Gayle Edwards
Wisbech, Cambridgeshire
Great Britain
April 7, 2007
Dear Shahin,
Thank you for all your help while we were in Paris. You truly made our trip perfect! Your insight, expertise, and care made this trip the most enjoyable one we have ever taken. Thank you for picking us up at the airport, giving us a grand tour of Paris, translating the tour at the Sorbonne, taking Ralph to Normandy [US Normandy Landing Beaches], and both of us to Versailles. I can honestly admit that after being to Versailles five times, your personalized tour was the best.
When looking back on our trip to Paris, we will always fondly remember how special you made it. I cannot imagine ever returning to France without scheduling tours with you. Thank you again for everything.
Jill Stevens
Huntington, West Virginia
April 4, 2007
Dear Shahin,
I just wanted to let you know what a wonderful time we
had during our Burgundy [three day] wine tour. It was definitely
the highlight of our entire vacation. The service you
provided to us was exceptional. Also, we feel as
though we have made a friend. You are a very kind man
and we hope to be able to hire you again in the
future. The hotels you selected for us were absolutely
perfect and the restaurants were exquisite. You opened
our eyes to a side of French cuisine that we have
never experienced. It was an unforgettable experience.
Thank you for everything and hopefully we will see
each other again in the near future.
Kevin and Sandra Gallagher
Miami, Florida
March 30, 2007
Dear Shahin,
I want to thank you very much for the wonderful day we had in Paris with you [combined Paris Overview and Romantic Paris Tour]. The tour to Rouen and Honfleur with Frederick was fantastic as well. Frederick was really nice, helpful and kind with us. We enjoyed very much the trip, in spite of the weather. We are already looking forward in taking our next tour in Paris with you. My family sends you best regards and again thanks very much for everything you did.
Regina Cohen
Caracas, Venezuela
March 22, 2007
Dear Shahin,
There are not enough words in the dictionary to express Mr. and Mrs. Stevens trip of a lifetime. Many praises and compliments all because of you. I hope you enjoyed them as much as they enjoyed you. I hope I will have the privilege of using your services in the future.
Best regards and thank you for everything.
Barbara Kirby - Travel Doctors
Huntington, West Virginia
March 12, 2007
Dear Shahin,
I don’t know if you remember us but you took us on a day tour [Paris Chronological Tour] with my mother and sisters in Sept 05. We had a great time and would love to repeat this experience with friends. They would like to do the Chronological Tour of Paris with us, which means we will be 4 of us for the whole day....
Oreste Fiume and Claire de Lesseps-Fiume
Bloomfield, CT
March 6, 2007
Dear Shahin,
We traveled with Paris Luxury Tours in October 2006. For all who may read these comments, please do take care to have sufficient time to properly plan your tour/holiday
in France, especially a specialized tour (wine country) as selected by us. If you do not have the time, then you certainly have selected the right touring planner. Shahin was our guide but he is more than just a tour guide---he is a tour guru, a tour miracle worker, and a few other positive adjectives we can throw out. With just 9 days to communicate, plan, revise, and revise yet again, Shahin enabled us to enjoy almost 5 days of a private guided tour of the Champagne region and Chablis [and other parts in Burgundy], prior to our return to Paris. (And, Shahin was more than patient in dealing with this limited time frame, as I had just been cleared to travel after spinal surgery several months earlier).
This clearly demonstrated that Paris Luxury Tours had not only the contacts to arrange certain vineyard tours, but also the skill and knowledge in cobbling the pieces of this trip together for us. I say this, because the tour/holiday included his planning chateaux and evening dining reservations at the highest rated Michelin facilities, touring of quaint towns and others of historical and cultural significance, adding an array and depth to the daily events during our limited time with him.
And, much to our surprise (and pleasure), every day started early, all stops were timely and
as complete as represented to us by the detailed itinerary which was sent via email as the pre-holiday plans evolved. We cannot recommend highly enough, to anyone who may read these comments, the services rendered and level of professionalism displayed by Shahin. Certainly, any future tour/holiday we plan in France (especially wine tours) will start and conclude with Paris Luxury Tours.
Susie and Rick Golden
North Miami Beach, Florida
January 10, 2007
Shahin:
This is a little late, but [we] women from the Midwest really, really enjoyed your tour! [custom tour of Mont Saint Michel and US sector of Normandy Landing Beaches]. Thank you.
Sandy Ott
Menomonie, Wisconsin
January 8, 2007
Shahin,
I often recall with pleasure the tour to Chartes and Giverny [Combined day tour of Chartres and Giverny performed in September, 2005]. I have much to be thankful for, not the least of which is to have the pleasure of acquaintances such as you.
Marvin Hirn
Louisville, Kentucky
16 October 2006
I strongly concur in everything Pat Rink wrote in her recent email to you. We were very pleased that you were able to conduct our visit to the Alsace region of France [Four day tour of Alsace and Champagne]. Your proposed itinerary was excellent and the changes we made together once we began our individually tailored tour were perfectly suited to our interests. Thank you for being attentive to our wishes and flexible in the execution of the very well planned itinerary. We three sisters hope to have an opportunity to visit France again in two years. Again, thank you for the very excellent service provided by Paris Luxury Tours.
Best regards,
Nancy Rink Carter
Ottawa, Illinois
15 October 2006
We have only been home a few days, but we are already talking about our next trip to France. Nancy, Ellen and I had a wonderful time. Paris is always a joy, and now, thanks to you, we have discovered the beauty and delights of Alsace and Champagne. I don't think we could single out one favorite place - we enjoyed Colmar, Riquewihr, Strasbourg, Reims, and Epernay. The tours and tastings at Hugel and Ruinart were, of course, highlights. We were very happy with your hotel and restaurant selections. Although we didn't make it to all the sights on the original itinerary, that wasn't a problem for us. As you probably gathered fairly early in our four days together, we are not manic sightseers. We appreciated your flexibility and ability to meet our particular interests as our visit progressed. Thank you.
We were tired Sunday evening when we returned to Paris, but it was too beautiful to stay in. We walked to Deux Magots for a light dinner and enjoyed a bottle of the Claude Daguenau Pouilly Fume you recommended as we watched the full moon rise over the tower of St.-Germain-des-Pres. The wine was excellent. (The waiter told us it was a good choice when we ordered it.)
We loved our week in France, especially our visit to Alsace. We send our best wishes for the continued success of Paris Luxury Tours.
Best regards,
Pat, Nancy and Ellen
Chicago, Illinois
23 September 2006
[Regarding] the day that we spent with you [custom tour of Giverny, the US Normandy Landing Beaches and Honfleur]... it was a thoroughly marvelous trip and exceeded our expectations on all levels. We wanted a private tour with a guide who knew the locality and the history of what we were going to see, so we could appreciate it to the fullest extent. You satisfied both of those objectives 110%. We were particularly pleased that English is your native language, so communications was easy and we were able to get the most of the information that you provided.
The tour that you put together was timed accurately, so we were able to see all that we wanted, and we never felt rushed. I had relied upon your expertise to gauge how long each site would hold our attention, plus the travel time between each area. This worked out completely, so we were able to fully take in each of the sites that we visited, and still got back to the hotel at the time we had expected. Your suggestions for restaurants also suited our taste for food and ambience.
Different people value different things, but I think no matter how you score value or enjoyment, your trip with us received an A+. Take care and thanks for a wonderful day.
Robbie Michel
Phoenix Arizona
21 September 2006
It's Wednesday morning here and we are still recovering from jet lag. First of all, I want to tell you how much we enjoyed seeing Paris with you… we saw the best of Paris with you! We will always remember our time with you and consider you more than a guide for the short time we spent together. Now we have a friend in Paris!
Thank you again.
Judy and Ben Hofheimer
Potomac, Maryland
21 August 2006
Just a short note to express my appreciation for your excellent tour of the architecture and historical sites of Paris. Your knowledge of the city and its buildings was superb, and the interesting anecdotes made their history come alive. Both Lauren and I commented after the visit how fast the day went and the ease with which you presented your city to us. We would also like to thank you for arranging for our "short" notice tour of Versailles [requested and arranged the day before it was performed]. Without your assistance our visit there would not have been so comprehensive and enjoyable. I would highly recommend you and your organization to anyone touring the area. Once again thank you..
Carlton Golden
Freehold , New Jersey
26 May 2006
Mary Ellen and I wanted to thank you again for the two super tours you provided during our visit to Paris [Mont Saint Michel and Chartres, and a full day tour of Versailles]. The trips were first class and were highlights of our visit! We felt well taken care of, and accomplished our purposes in each trip. The croissants on the early morning trip to Mont St. Michel were a nice touch and the lunches [at "Potager du Roy" in Versailles and "Le Grand Cerf" in Ernée] were extraordinary....Thanks again....you'll see us again on our next visit to Paris.
Mary Ellen and Richard Stieglitz
Potomac, Maryland
May 8, 2006
My husband Frank and I can't thank you enough for making our trip to Paris an unbelievable experience. We were in Paris for a full week and that one day that we did our tour of Champagne with you was our best day by far. The day started off stress-free with a chauffeured ride to visit the Champagne country. We loved not having to worry about where to go or how to get there. The door to door service was well worth it and helped to make the day relaxing.
The drive to Champagne was and hour and a half long but felt like it went by so quickly. The conversation was great. Once arriving in Reims, seeing the Gothic cathedral was an incredible introduction to the country. Frank and I really enjoyed hearing about the history behind the cathedral and the town itself.
Upon arriving at "Ruinart" [the oldest Champagne house in Reims], we were automatically greeted with a woman who was extremely friendly and very professional at the same time. We enjoyed her passion for Champagne and the knowledge that she gave us. What we experienced that day was something that we would have never gotten to experience here in America. Learning the complete production of how Champagne is made, learning the history behind the underground caves, and having such a wisdom-filled tour guide was superb. We especially liked the personal attention of a private tour rather than being in a large group where it becomes impersonal. Tasting all the various types of Champagne at the end of the tour was a delightful ending to our journey.
Our lunch [in Reims at the Brasserie Boulingrin] was not only a nice break, but you also gave us a ton of information about French culture. That alone helped us out for the rest of our trip in France.
When we arrived at "Bollinger" we enjoyed the different type of tour. We got to see where Champagne begins its journey through the vineyard itself. We pretty much got to see the process from beginning to end. Here again, we enjoyed that our tour guide had such an extreme passion for Champagne.
Overall, we can't thank you enough for such an amazing day in Champagne country. We are definitely going to refer you to tons of our friends here in the U.S. We now feel that we have a great friend in Paris. Keep up the great service and we hope to come back to Paris to enjoy a wine tour!
All the best,
Caryn and Francesco Tutino
New York, NY
April 26, 2006
We would like to thank you for all your kindness and determination to make our experience in the wine region of Bordeaux [one week tour of Margaux, St. Julien, Pauillac, St. Estephe, Pomerol, St. Emilion, Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux, Barsac, Sauternes and Graves] and Champagne [day tour from Paris] unique and unforgettable. Those seven days were amazing. Thank you for the excellent program, the elegant restaurants and above all, thank you for the polite and kind manner which you treated me and my family.
Kind Regards,
Lino, Jeane and Camille Da Silva
Natal, Brazil
March 27, 2006
We arrived home safe and sound after a wonderful week in Paris--the highlight of which was our day with you [Paris Fashion Tour]. I cannot thank you enough for all the effort you made into making Stephanie's birthday such a success. From the wrapped Chanel DVD, the amazing behind the scenes tours at Scherrer and Dior, a lovely lunch at L'Avenue, and your knowledge of all the sites I could not have asked for a more delightful day. It will be a memory she has for years to come!!!
Many thanks.
Tricia Neild
Bronxville, NY
March 20, 2006
I can not thank you enough for the amazing tour and time you spent with us on Friday. You truly helped make a dream for me come true, showing my parents the Paris I love! [Paris Overview Tour] I know we may not have been the most “history” focused bunch, but the little anecdotes we do remember and the places you took us to will forever bring a smile to my face as I think about what you “gave” me and my family.
I appreciate your patience with us and opening my eyes to a new side of Paris I hadn’t seen before.
Thank you!
Keith Kancar
New York City, NY
December 22, 2005
Tonight we close the business for the Christmas-New Year holidays and finally have time for some 2005 reflections… Fortunately we seem to be able to recall most of the extensive information you imparted [in October], and your knowledge has provided us with a sense of history and culture which we could never have achieved on our own; and for that we are truly grateful. We enjoyed your company very much Shahin, your trips [Paris Overview, Champagne wine tour and Loire Valley Chateaux] were a delight and as a guide you are held in the highest esteem. We hope to meet you again.
With best wishes for 2006 and kindest regards,
Kit and Arlette Bleakly
Brisbane, Australia
October 31, 2005
We and the Morts made it back safe and sound to our home in Modesto after a FABULOUS week exploring the ins and outs of Paris. We wined...we dined...and we got a history lesson besides. Our two days spent with you were by far the most enjoyable and thought-provoking. Both Normandy and Versailles [day tour of the US Normandy Landing Beaches and another of the Vaux le Vicomte and Versailles Chateaux] were highlights of our week and anything less than the services and commentary you provided would have been a tragedy. Once again, Shahin, thanks for your professionalism, your promptness and your attention to details. We wouldn't hesitate using or recommending your services again in the future. Good luck.
Norm Porges
Modesto, California
October 14, 2005
I just wanted to thank you for guiding us through Alsace [eight day custom tour of Alsace and Champagne in September, 2005, for six, including 1 day in Germany's Black Forest, 2 in the Alsatian Wine Route, 1 in Colmar, 1 in Mulhouse, 1 in the Route des Cretes, 1 in Champagne and another in Chantilly and Giverny]. Your driving was tops and your arrangements, advice, and pleasant company helped us make the most of our trip. The wine tastings at Bollinger, Domaine Weinbach, and Hugel were particular highlights. I think I can speak for all 6 of us when I say we had an altogether wonderful time!
Fran and Michael Goldberg
Bethesda, Maryland
October 26, 2005
During a recent trip to Europe, my aunt and I had the pleasure of spending a day in Paris with
Shahin Akhavi [for a PLT Paris Overview Tour]. I didn't think we could see Paris in a day, but
thanks to Shahin, we did. He picked us up at the train station and off we went to explore the many
beautiful buildings and sites in Paris. Shahin was so knowledgeable and interesting. He made our trip
so enjoyable. We would highly recommend Paris Luxury Tours to anyone traveling to France.
Donna Husband
Corpus Christi, Texas
October 11, 2005
We would like to say thank you very much for our beautiful tour of
the Champagne region of France. We knew from the moment that we started
communicating with you through email that you were the right choice for
our tour. Your attention to making sure that every detail of our trip was
just as we wanted it was wonderful.
We had a truly beautiful day with no worries. We look forward to
planning our next trip to France with your help.
Sincerely,
Ron and Tracy Adams
Dublin, Ohio
July 20, 2005
We [five sisters] have had such happy memories thinking of our wonderful day in Paris. I have been to Paris twice before, but I have never seen so much or enjoyed my time in Paris as [much as] I did with your guidance [modified Paris Overview Tour]. We all felt the same way.... We had a marvelous time in Paris and would highly recommend your business to anyone! It is the only way to do Paris in a day! Thanks again.
Alonna Randall
Tempe, Arizona
24 June 2005
Shahin,
Our first trip to Paris began with our 'Paris Tour, Chronologically,' a day tour that included the history of Paris. There was no better way to begin our vacation. Seeing all of the sights, getting a feel for the city, and helping us decide how we wanted to spend our [remaining] time were only some of the wonderful parts of our tour.
From the moment you picked us up, we felt so comfortable with you---and in our beautiful car! Your knowledge of Paris was astounding!! We were able to relate to much of what you shared with us, and all throughout the rest of our stay, we felt like we actually knew about the city, its history and its ghosts.
I know we would not have been able to find the Roman Arena: what an experience to stand where the ancient Romans once stood. Or the [15th C.] houses that started out narrow [at street level] and got wide [as they rise], to gain more living space.
Our lunch stop was superb, not just the food, but the ambiance, your company, and the wonderful feeling of relaxation. You showed us more then we had expected and gave us many memories to take home and share.
We also asked you for a recommendation for a restaurant, and you took the time and energy to locate one that perfectly fit our criteria [Gérard Besson], and that evening proved to be one of the highlights of our trip.
Thank you seems too little to say, but I will say it - Thank you!
Lorraine, Terry and Tet
Fairfax, VA and Santos, Brazil
PS you were so accommodating, as we had waited until the last week to set up our tour. Your professionalism and personal attention were
greatly appreciated.
June 18, 2005
Can we really do Paris in a day? YES!
[We] had arranged a private guided [Paris Overview] tour via Paris Luxury Tours and had been in contact with… Shahin Akhavi… [who has] lived in New York and [was] educated at Brown and very easy to understand. He has lived in Paris for [well over]15 years, and has a great love for history and art. The Mercedes Benz van was very roomy and cool. It was a warm day in Paris, and air conditioning [was] a welcome relief between visiting the sites of this beautiful city! Shahin was very knowledgeable and helped expedite our tight schedule by dropping us off in the front of the places we had chosen to visit and then he went to park the car and find us, or waited for us, so we were able to do and see more than if we were on a normal guided tour. It was expensive, but we decided well worth the money when we realized how convenient it was and how much we really were able to see of Paris in one day. He had also purchased our museum tickets ahead of time, which saved us even more time.
Jane Wright
Mesa, Arizona
June 6, 2005
Shahin,
I spoke with my client, Marilyn, and she had nothing but praise for their day with you [Custom Impressionism Tour comprised of Auvers-sur-Oise, Giverny and Rouen]. She said she would not have change a thing! I'd say that is high praise indeed.... Thank you for providing a wonderful experience for my clients.
Kathryn Hueth
Ogden, Utah
23 May 2005
Dear Shahin,
Mom, Tina, and I just want to let you know how much
Paris Luxury Tours and you as our guide and friend made the trip to
Paris everything we dreamed about. We have talked since our return how
we are still thinking about all the wonderful things we experienced
because of your expertise and knowledge.
I have traveled to Europe before on cruises and tour groups. I'll never
do that again because of you and Paris Luxury Tours: the difference
between having a personal guide and tour groups is night and day.
Thanks again for giving us a most extraordinary adventure in France.
Vickie, Bobbie and Tina
Knoxville, Tennessee and Ft. Myers, Florida
16 October 2004
Dear Shahin,
Paris Luxury Tours provided a phenomenal experience on our visit to France. The service [for tours of Mont Saint Michel, Chartres, Giverny and Versailles] could not have been better. Our guide was always punctual and treated us with the utmost respect. His knowledge of the historical significance of the locations we visited enabled us to have a much deeper appreciation for the sights we were seeing.
In addition, special requests for side trips and stops along the way were always honored. One of the major factors for our choosing Paris Luxury Tours was that our vacation time was limited, and no other tour enabled us to accomplish all that we wanted in a manner that was as efficient, yet still relaxed.
Most important, an intimate, personalized tour makes the trip more of a true cultural experience. The ability to blend into the culture, gain some understanding of life in a foreign land with such a rich history, and visit local sights and restaurants [that are] ignored by larger tour operators truly made for an unforgettable experience.
Without question, [this was] one [experience] that we will never forget. In addition to highly recommending your services to others, we will undoubtedly contact Paris Luxury Tours when our plans include a return to France. Once again, thank you for all you have done.
Tamara and Emil Abdulhayoglu
Columbia, SC
26 September 2004
We had the pleasure of spending the day with Shahin in the Champagne country. He organized a first-rate day for us, with many personalized and special features that we would never have been able to experience on our own [visit at Bollinger]. Shahin himself is very competent, knowledgable, and very pleasant. We were well satisfied with our experience and definitely recommend his services.
R.W.
New York City, NY
29 September 2004
My wife and I have recently returned from our first trip to Paris. When asked by friends and co-workers 'how it was,' we both respond a positive and energetic "WONDERFUL!", and give much of that credit to Shahin and Paris Luxury Tours. Having never visited the city, and knowing little about it, it's history, what to see, or even where to begin - I contacted Shahin via e-mail to arrange our trip. Though at the last minute (I wrote him one week before we arrived, during a time when most of France was on vacation), he was able to construct a personalized program for us based on what WE wanted to do and see that that allowed us to have 1) a complete overview and introduction to the city, 2) a first-hand and personal introduction to the Champagne region of France, 3) a guided tour and historic lesson on several of the most important Cathedrals in and around Paris [Amiens, Beauvais and St. Denis].
Shahin was amazing from the first moment. He met us at the airport promptly and guided us through the maze of other travelers to our waiting car. He then whisked us off to our tour, expertly guiding us each step of the way. He was knowledgeable and gave us detailed history about all that we saw. If we inquired about something or some place, he researched it for us immediately. We could ask as many questions as we wanted without feeling "stupid" and could stop for further discussion/photo opportunities as we liked. He was kind, accommodating and just plain wonderful to be with. We could never have discovered Paris to the depth we did without our own personal "expert" by our side and will use him again on all of our successive returns.
David and Desiree Abele
Minneapolis, MN
24 August 2004
Dear Shahin,
We truly enjoyed our trip with Paris Luxury Tours to Normandy. The
itinerary you suggested was perfect for our family's needs since we were
able to see both US landing beaches, the cemetery at Colville and the
various monuments. We had a full day but did not feel rushed at any of our
stops. You were the perfect tour guide, you answered our questions, provided
us lots of information on Normandy and French culture, but you were not
intrusive when we wanted time to reflect on the places we were visiting. We
especially enjoyed your lunch recommendation, everything was delicious and
it was great to experience a different regional cuisine in Normandy from
what we were having in Paris. We are still talking about the Normandy butter
and the fabulous apple tart. The best part of having you as our guide was
knowing you have experienced both American and French culture. You could
easily relate to us as Americans, but because you have lived in France for
so many years you have a wealth of knowledge about France. Please feel free
to use us for a reference at anytime and give out our e-mail or telephone
number to prospective clients.
Ellen and Chris Patton
Aaron, Jeremy and Matthew
14 July 2004
Dear Shahin,
I wanted to thank you again for the tour of the Normandy landing beaches. As a military historian and student of the Normandy campaign for over 25 years, it was fantastic that we were able to leave from Paris and see all of the sites on my wish list all in one day. It was perfect! As a guide you were both knowledgeable and entertaining. I know my wife enjoyed your company very much as well. Given we only had one day we could allow for a trip to Normandy, I cant thank you enough for making it a trip I'll never forget! We'll call you when we get back to Paris.
Sincerely,
John T. Jones
17 May 2004
Dear Shahin,
All three of us had a wonderful experience last week!
The cost was easily justified because, to see the things that you showed us [in one day], we would have been required to spend at least three additional days in Paris. The stress of getting around in Paris was removed and the anecdotes and history that you provided were icing on the cake!
All three of us would highly suggest using your tour for any visitors: in particular on the first day of a week long visit. I think we all liked most the historical trivia you shared with us as we saw the sights. Like the man [Violet le Duc] turning around [on the roof] at Notre Dame!
I will forward a picture or two in a couple of days.
Thanks again for a great day.
Brenda, David and Mike
09 March 2004
Dear Shahin,
As you are aware, my recent visit to Paris, was a surprise Valentine's gift from my boyfriend, Douglas Calder. I feel I must write to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the incredible attention to detail, you personally paid, whilst arranging this for us.
From the moment our driver collected us from our London Hotel and escorted us to Heathrow, for the first leg of our journey by helicopter to Farnborough, I honestly felt as if I was dreaming. Our private jet to Paris, five day stay at the incredible Paris Ritz, evening of entertainment at the world famous Moulin Rouge and informative tour of the historical sights with our exceptional tour guide, made this trip truly, 'the holiday of a lifetime.' I must also say that I did feel like a bit of a celebrity, being chauffeur driven in our very luxurious, top of the range Mercedes. Words cannot desribe what this trip meant to me.
As you can probably guess, I have received an abundance of 'oohs' and 'aahs' from family and friends alike who have seen our photographs and I have pleasure in informing you that we have already passed your contact details on to quite a few very good friends, who would love a similar experience.
Paris now holds a very special place in my heart!
Thank you so much for making my dream come true.
Regards
Lesley Ritchie
02 July 2003
Shahin,
Russ and I want to thank you so much for your guidance in making our first visit to Paris a most enjoyable and memorable one.
You were so kind and patient, and paved the way for us to truly fall in love with France. You are a wonderful, experienced and knowledgeable guide and a wonderful man.
It has been an exceptional pleasure spending time with you.
Terri and Russ Kelly
20 June 2003
We hired Paris Luxury Tours for our last trip to Paris. We were taking our niece as her high school graduation gift. My husband and I have been to Paris many times but thought that using a guide might make the trip more interesting for our niece.
What a great decision!! Shahin Akhavi was our tour guide and he was just marvelous. He really brought Paris alive for us. He organized the tour in a way that helped us understand the development of the city from ancient times through modern. It was a perspective that we would not have had otherwise and was fascinating.
Shahin is exceptionally knowledgeable and showed us parts of Paris that we had never seen before. He made the whole experience fun and informative.
He helped us with everything from reservations to medications.
We would highly recommend Paris Luxury Tours and look forward to using them again on our next trip to France.
Beth Webster
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