As I bid farewell to my 28-year career in federal government service and welcomed a new chapter, I embarked on a profound journey through France and Spain. Accompanied by my husband and a group of delightful client travelers, we immersed ourselves in these regions’ rich history, culture, and flavors. This was more than a mere vacation—it was a soul-stirring exploration of the places and stories that have shaped our world today. This journey enriched my understanding of different cultures and inspired me to embrace new experiences and celebrate life in all its diversity.
Paris: Unveiling Black Culture in France
Our adventure kicked off in the vibrant city of Paris, where we were hosted at the Paris Le Méridien Etoile in the 17th Arrondissement. Despite some initial travel hiccups, our eagerness to delve into the city’s rich cultural tapestry was undiminished. We were thrilled to explore the city’s unique blend of art, culture, and romance and to uncover its significant place in French Black Culture.
On day two, despite the unseasonably rainy and chilly weather, our journey took a unique turn with a specially curated Josephine Baker excursion. This one-of-a-kind experience set the tone for our exploration of Paris.
Our Josephine Baker Tour, a testament to our adventurous spirit, was a unique experience despite the unseasonably rainy and chilly weather. This tour, which set the tone for our exploration of Paris, allowed us to follow in her footsteps and explore her legacy throughout the city. We learned about the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, where she performed. We learned about La Coupole, a restaurant she often frequented near the square now named after her in the Montparnasse neighborhood. We also viewed the French Panthéon in Paris, where she was posthumously inducted into France’s Hall of Heroes in 2021 by President Macron. These unique experiences made our journey through Paris truly memorable.
Eiffel Elegance: The Heartbeat of Paris
Our Josephine Baker Tour lasted only a half-day, so some of us booked a tour of the Eiffel Tower. The tower was decorated in preparation for the 2024 Olympics, which were scheduled to start the following month. From the top of the building, we could see where all the activities would be held, and Paris was adorned with symbols of the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
Soulful Paris: Discovering the City’s Black Heritage
On day three, we participated in the highly anticipated Black Paris Tour. Our French-Beninese guide led us through iconic landmarks, including Alexandre Dumas Park, dedicated to the renowned writer and abolitionist. At Place du Général Catroux, we encountered statues representing three generations of the Dumas family, along with the General Thomas Alexandre Dumas Slavery Memorial. General Dumas was France’s first black general and father of renown French author Alexandre Dumas. Alexandre Dumas’s famous book “Count of Monte Cristo” was inspired by his father’s military experiences while in service of the French Republic.
A few feet away in the garden is a statue of Solitude, the freedom fighter. While pregnant, Solitude, a Guadeloupean woman, fought against French troops in 1802. She became a symbol of resistance and joined the fight against the re-establishment of slavery in Guadeloupe led by Louis Delgrès. After being captured and sentenced to death, she was executed on November 29, 1802, the day after giving birth. In recognition of her bravery, a Solitude statue created by Didier Audrat was inaugurated in Paris on May 10, 2022, making it the first statue of a Black woman in the city.
Our journey continued through the vibrant African district, where the lively culture of Little Africa flourishes. This gallery space and cultural initiative in the La Goutte d’Or district provided a fresh perspective on modern Paris. We also enjoyed a lunch stop in Montmartre, a neighborhood once alive with the sounds of jazz, before concluding our tour at the serene Luxembourg Gardens, where we reflected on France’s complex history and its relationship with its Black citizens.
All Aboard: The AmaKristina
After our enriching experiences in Paris, we boarded a high-speed train to Lyon, a city celebrated for its culinary prowess. Here, we embarked on a memorable 7-night Rhône River cruise aboard the luxurious AmaWaterways River Cruise ship, the AmaKristina. This part of our journey was truly unforgettable. This gave us the perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. We Celebrated Juneteeth in Style with the captain, crew, and our fantastic cruise family, experiencing the diversity of cultures along the Rhône River (Read “Beyond Music and Wine: Exploring the Multifaceted Appeal of a French River Cruise ” for more about river cruising).
Lyon: Culinary Delights and Historical Echoes
Despite the persistent rain, our gastronomic tour of Lyon was a highlight. We dined at the acclaimed Restaurant Lyon Dakar, where the fusion of African and French cuisines was delightful! Every bite told a story of tradition and innovation, celebrating the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Chasselay: Remembering the Brave
Our visit to the Tata Senegalais war monument in Chasselay, just outside Lyon, was a particularly moving experience. This poignant tribute to the West African soldiers who fought for France during World War II reminded us of the sacrifices made by these brave men, whose contributions are often overlooked in the broader narrative of the war. It was a decisive moment of connection with the past.
Beaujolais Wine Region: A Taste of Tradition
After visiting Chasselay, we journeyed to the picturesque Beaujolais Wine Region. Here, we indulged in wine tasting at Domaine Riviere, a family-owned vineyard known for its unique wine tourism. This experience was about more than just the wine—connecting with the land and understanding the history that shaped this beautiful region.
Vienne: Echoes of the Ancient World
As we sailed farther down the Rhone River, one of the most interesting stops was the historic town of Vienne. We were awestruck by the Roman amphitheater and the Temple of Augustus and Livia. These ancient sites, steeped in history, offered a breathtaking glimpse into the lives of those who lived here centuries ago. Walking through Vienne, we marveled at the seamless blend of past and present that defines this charming town, gaining a deeper understanding of the historical significance of these ancient structures.
Tournon: A Nostalgic Journey
In Tournon, we embarked on a scenic steam train ride through breathtaking landscapes that seemed frozen. The journey was a nostalgic reminder of the simpler pleasures in life—rolling hills, quaint villages, and the gentle rhythm of the train. It was a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the beauty of the French countryside during our Southern France Vacation. This journey allowed us to appreciate the beauty of the world and the importance of taking time to enjoy it.
Cultural Kaleidoscope: Exploring Fondation Blachère
We had an unforgettable visit to the Blachere Foundation, nestled in the charming town of Bonnieux, just a short distance from Avignon, France. This prestigious foundation was pioneered by the visionary Frenchman Paul Blachere, who was captivated by the beauty of Africa and felt compelled to establish a sanctuary for African artists. These talented artists reside within the foundation, showcasing their diverse and captivating works through myriad enlightening exhibits. We were fortunate to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of their creations. Moreover, the foundation boasts a boutique where one can acquire exquisite, handcrafted goods and artifacts directly from skilled artisans. This extraordinary experience unfolded just outside the vibrant city of Avignon, leaving an indelible impression on us.
Avignon: A Seat of Power
We visited Avignon and toured the city and the impressive Papal Palace. This ancient palace was once the center of the Catholic world, and its history and significance amazed us. It’s also where one of Europe’s most prominent arts festivals, Festival D’Avignon, features contemporary live performances. Avignon, France, is known for its vibrant music and arts scene, especially during the summer when the city hosts several festivals. We also made time for shopping. Our visit to Avignon was a great way to end our time in France and showed us the lasting impact of these cultures.
Sun, Sea, and History: A Journey Through Marseille
Our final French destination was Marseille, a vibrant port city on the Mediterranean. By the time we arrived, the weather had improved significantly, allowing us to spend much time walking around and exploring. We admired the beauty of Joliet Plaza and even found a spot where Claude McKay used to hang out while writing his 1929 novel “Banjo.” We also visited the Museum of African, Oceanic, and Amerindian Art. With Marseille being so close to North Africa and its history of culture clashes in the region, there wasn’t much Black history and culture highlighted in Marseille compared to other cities in France. Perhaps future Soulful France Experiences cruises will improve in this area.
Saying Goodbye in Arles
After saying goodbye to the luxurious AmaKristina in Arles, a few of us continued to Barcelona for two nights. On our way to the train station in Nimes, we passed through Camargue. Nimes was a former outpost of the Roman Empire, which gave Rome a strategic advantage since it is on the Mediterranean Sea.
Sailing in Style: Top On Board Entertainment Picks
I still need to touch on the onboard experiences of the AmaKristina Soulful Experience. We had a well-known Bahamian Chef, Brie, who added a creative gourmet spin to African American Cuisine. Every evening, the onboard entertainment and experiences were excellent. The music was on point. There were jazz performances by local musicians from Provence, France, AmaWaterways director of music, and entertainer extraordinaire David Onka. There were macaroon-making classes, wine and chocolate tasting, and a France History of Slavery Lecture. Famous academics, authors, actors, and other influencers appeared at this Black Heritage celebration on France’s Rhone River. Check out my photo album and see why this Soulful River Cruise experience was the trip of a lifetime! You can even experience it yourself in 2025.
Post-Cruise Adventure: From Arles to Barcelona
After disembarking in Arles, we spent a day exploring its bustling markets, shopping, and soaking in the local culture. The vibrant atmosphere of Arles was a delightful contrast to the historic sites we had visited, offering a lively and colorful experience. You can check out my Barcelona photos here.
Our journey continued by rail. We traveled by TGV INOUI to Barcelona, where the city’s artistic and architectural wonders awaited us. In Montserrat, we visited the revered Black Madonna of Montserrat and ascended the mountain by train, taking in the breathtaking views and exploring the Montserrat Spain Monastery. This spiritual site, nestled high in the mountains, was the highlight of our Catalunian adventure.
In Barcelona, we immersed ourselves in the city’s artistic soul. We marveled at the masterpieces during a Gaudi Architecture Tour in Barcelona, including Sagrada Familia, the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site. Our Barcelona sightseeing tours also took us to The Gothic Quarter, the city’s medieval heart, where ancient Roman walls and the Basilica De Santa Maria merged with modern buildings. We explored the La Ramblas area, Planca Catalunya, and the Catalunya Museum of Art; each site offered a unique perspective on Barcelona’s rich history and cultural heritage.
We enjoyed memorable evenings at an authentic Argentine steak restaurant to cap off our journey. Patagonia Wine and Beef flavors paired perfectly with our reflections on our incredible experiences.
Reflecting on an Unforgettable Journey
This journey through France and Spain was more than just a celebration of my retirement—it was a celebration of life, history, and the connections we made along the way. Traveling with my husband and a group of wonderful clients made the experience even more unique as we shared the joy of discovery and the world’s beauty. These experiences deepened our appreciation for the contributions of Black individuals to France’s rich history.
From the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil vineyards of Beaujolais, and from ancient ruins of Vienne to the artistic wonders of Barcelona, this trip reminded me that the world is full of stories waiting to be discovered. For an empty nest traveler like me, this journey was the perfect way to embrace the next chapter of life.
Cheers!🥂
Priscilla Holmes
CEO, Cilla Travel LLC
Live the Dream
8 Responses
This is an interesting site…I remember the song that was named ‘Come, come and see Josephine Baker – our long-lived Josephine, etc…Soft lights shine all night, down on Josephine, she fills the air with thrills…’
Just 2 days ago, I chatted with a friend about taking a holiday in France or Spain. My friend is from French-speaking Gabon in Africa…We are planning for next year, so your website came at a very relevant time for me.
I really enjoyed reading about Josephine Baker.
Thanks for sharing!
Josephine Baker was a really interesting character. She was a singer, dancer, club owner, adoptive parent, civil rights activist, and even a spy for the French Resistance during WWII. The French view her as a heroine. Thank you for your comments. I am glad this post resonates with you and your upcoming trip.
Cheers!
Hi there,
Thanks for sharing,What an amazing journey,Your exploration of Paris and the focus on French Black culture and the Josephine Baker Tour sounds absolutely fascinating. It must have been such an enriching experience to learn about her legacy and follow her footsteps throughout the city. Your trip sounds like a true adventure.
It truly was an adventure. Thank you for your comments Dr. cyprian. Cheers!
Thank you for sharing the article! Traveling through France and Spain sounds like such an enriching experience, especially when it’s about celebrating a new chapter in life. Both countries offer so much culture, history, and soul in their landscapes, food, and traditions. Immersing yourself in these soulful experiences not only enhances personal growth but also creates lasting memories. It’s a beautiful way to mark a new beginning! Thanks
Indeed it was. Thanks for your comments Live Free Team. Cheers!!
The way you described the experiences and cultural highlights really made me feel like I was traveling along with you. Your insights into the local traditions, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights are truly captivating. It’s clear that this trip was not just a vacation but a deep, enriching experience. Your post has definitely sparked my wanderlust and given me some great ideas for my own travel plans. Thanks for sharing such a vivid and inspiring journey
Thanks Andy, it really was one of those Greatest of All Trips (GOAT).
Cheers!