KABIRA ISHIGAKI
Overview
Experience the vibrant side of Ishigaki through Club Med. Situated on a protected marine park on the coast of Ishigaki Island, this pristine Okinawa travel destination has had one of the most diverse histories out of all the prefectures in Japan. Okinawans’ emphasis on mindful eating and active lifestyle has led them to a happy and healthy way of life; at Club Med, we tailor our offer to let you experience the unique Ishigaki lifestyle. Discover stunning nature, where you can dive into crystal blue seas for endless activities like windsurfing, kayaking, paddling, or go scuba diving with majestic manta rays. Walk along fine sandy beaches, or cycle with a view on the island’s hilly mountain – the highest in Okinawa. Uncover the blended culture of this enriching locale with our daily curation of Okinawan specialties or traditional dance lessons. Embrace the pace of island life with our pop-up beach lounge where you can unwind to the sound of sanshin at sunset. Explore our natural haven and return home fresh and rejuvenated
Included/Excluded
Day 1: Arles (Embark)
Arrive at the Marseille Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship docked in Arles.
Day 2: Arles
Explore a sun-drenched Provençal town today with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there. Arles has existed since the sixth century BC, when the ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. It was here that the Romans built their first bridge across the Rhône River, creating a vital overland route between Italy and Spain.
Day 3: Avignon
The walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns in southern France, with a host of historic gems to explore—including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome and once lived and ruled here. You’ll see the Palace of the Popes and much more today, or have the chance to visit a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.
A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 4: Viviers
An enchanting village where time seems to have stopped centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied past that goes back more than 1,600 years—and a splendid architectural heritage to match. At one time, Viviers was divided along religious lines—the clergy lived in the upper part of the town, the laity in the lower part. Your exploration of the town will take you through both parts, as you begin at the crest and make your way to the riverbank.
Day 5: Tain-l’Hermitage (Tournon)
If you love fine wine, you’ll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring events took place here: A castle was raised on the hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and new fortifications were added over the centuries, including two “new” towers built to defend against Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You’ll see the handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants and garrison officers when you walk through the Rue de Doux area, and you’ll pass the 14th-century church and the oldest secondary school in France.
Day 6: Lyon
Ancient Lyon is a city of tantalizing contrasts, from Roman roots to stunning modern architecture and plenty of Renaissance flair in between. There’s much to explore here, from the city’s bike paths to the silk weavers’ secret passageways. While you’re in town, you might like to have lunch on your own at one of the many traditional bouchons that proliferate in the epicenter of French gastronomy.
Day 7: Mâcon (Beaune)
The pace of life is decidedly more relaxed in Burgundy, where endless rows of grapes hang heavy on the vine. The capital of the region’s wine trade, Beaune is renowned for its history, beauty, and highly prized wine, as well as its medieval-era hospital—the Hospices de Beaune.
Day 8: Lyon (Disembark)
Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport for your flight home. Alternatively, you can continue your adventure with an extension to Paris.
