Burgundy & Provence Rhone River EduCruise 2021
CREDIT UNION CEO & VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT FORUM
August 8 – 17th, 2021
Avalon Waterways River Cruises – ‘Poetry II’
Paris France to Arles, France
EXPLORING LEADERSHIP CHALLENGES THAT WILL IMPACT YOUR CREDIT UNION’S SUCCESS
Planning for the future can be a frightening and risky process. Participants in this credit union cruise/conference will be given a better understanding of what changes are coming, and how to strategically plan for future success. This educational cruise/conference will FOCUS on challenges and opportunities that will impact CEO’s and Volunteers.
This educational program will guide Credit Union LEADERS through the Strategic Thinking and Preparation Process by covering the key components that may impact your planning process.
Take a wondrous French river cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers with guided sightseeing in famous French locales, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems. This River conference cruise through France begins in style with two overnights in Paris—one of the world’s most romantic and vibrant cities! Explore the “City of Light” with a guided city tour to see its famous landmarks, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum with its elegant glass pyramid contrasting its ancient architecture.
Travel by train to Dijon and transfer to your home for 7 nights, aboard the beautiful Avalon Poetry II. You’ll visit France’s gastronomic capital of Lyon—also a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture where the Rhône and Saône Rivers meet. See Lyon’s wonderful sights, including the popular Place des Terreaux with its famous fountain seen on postcards. You’ll walk through the city of Tournon, beautifully nestled between the vineyards, on a guided walk through medieval treasures of Roman ruins and a fascinating 16th-century castle. Continue your river cruise to Avignon and see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world. On the Rhône River sits Arles, France—known for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh and site of its 1st-century Roman Amphitheatre, which hosts plays and concerts to this day. You’ll revel in the relaxing and inspiring views and culinary delights during your Conference in Paris and river cruise through France.
SESSION TOPICS
This Credit Union EduCruise is packed with powerful topics and useful information, focused around these key strategic areas of concentration:
- First Examine Thyself: Questions the Board & CEO Need to Ask
- Conduct Risk and Ethics for Volunteers and the CEO
- Focus on Effective CEO/Board Relationships
- Foundations of the Modern Credit Union Volunteer
- Open Forum – Discuss Key Issues, Concerns and Trends Impacting your Growth Strategy
- And much more …
BENEFITS FOR YOU & YOUR CREDIT UNION:
- Receive Free Consultation with our on-board industry leader
- Participate in several networking opportunities
- Review new leadership concepts that can make a difference
- Discover how an effective Board/CEO Team equals future success
- Learn from others about their Credit Unions
- Discover how your credit union can thrive in times of change
- Create a strategic game-plan for future survival
- Find solutions to problems your CU is facing today
- Share with other CU volunteers and management staff
All Sessions are very interactive. Questions, discussion, and exchange of ideas are highly encouraged. Some Pre-Cruise Work may be assigned. Plenty of Networking opportunities throughout this educational journey.
DISCUSSION LEADERS
DAVID REED
Attorney, author, consultant and nationally recognized trainer, David A. Reed is a partner in the law firm of Reed and Jolly, PLLC. Through Reed and Jolly, Mr. Reed provides guidance to credit unions concerning a variety of matters including the establishment and revision of policies and procedures, organizational compliance, collections, security, contractual agreements, regulatory matters and corporate governance. In addition to his legal expertise, Mr. Reed is a Certified Fraud Examiner and Chairman of a Supervisory Committee. His engaging speaking style has garnered him status as a regular lecturer nationwide on topics such as regulatory compliance, governance, examination planning, consumer lending, bankruptcy and collections. He offers facilitation services and a full range of on-site training programs that can be delivered to the Board, executive team, managers or frontline staff.
Mr. Reed received his undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech in 1986 and his Juris Doctorate from George Mason University School of Law in 1989. He resides in Fairfax, Virginia with his wife Diane and an odd assortment of cats.
DAVID REED
DIANE REED
Nationally recognized speaker, writer and communications professional, Diane Reed, currently serves as President of CUDoctor, a full-service credit union consultancy, assisting credit unions nationwide with human resource, marketing, community relations, compliance, sales, training, board relations and governance, and executive support. Prior to joining CUDoctor, Diane served for more than a decade as Vice President of Administration for a mid-sized credit union. Diane’s expertise in “Service-Oriented Culture Change” has been cited in such publications as “Credit Union Times”, “Credit Union Management” and a host of other industry magazines. She has co-authored cross-discipline (Human Resources and Security) articles such as “Bad Guys Don’t Always Wear Black” published in “Credit Union Magazine.”
In 2016, she teamed up with CUNA to create and deliver the industry’s first Credit Union HR Compliance Certification School, a program which has proven not only popular but a new “necessary” for all credit union HR professionals. Prior to joining the credit union movement, Diane acted as Marketing Communications Director at Carfax, Inc.; as Communications Director for the International Gem & Jewelry Show, Inc. and as Marketing Director for Creative Hairdressers, Inc. She attended The American University and graduated from George Mason University where she specialized in Organizational Communication. Diane currently resides in Fairfax, Virginia with her husband David, a credit union guru in his own right.
DIANE REED
ABOUT THE SHIP
Begin with a sophisticated and stylish setting. Toss in a cheerful atmosphere. Add our sumptuous cuisine, wonderful regional wines and attentive service; then sprinkle in gorgeous views. The result — an outstanding dining experience. Our expert chefs create culinary masterpieces that highlight regional cultures and traditions. For those less adventurous, amazing American dishes are always available each day!
Early Risers enjoy breakfast in the Main lounge while a full buffet breakfast with made-to-order specialties, accompanied by freshly-baked breads and pastries is served from 7am daily. At lunch, you’ll find an enticing buffet laden with fresh salads, pasta dishes, hot entrees, and desserts, as well as meals to order from the menu; a light lunch option is also available in the Lounge. Throughout the day, swing by the Lounge for tea and coffees or complimentary espresso, as well as pastries and cookies. Dinner is a multi-course affair, accompanied by free-flowing wines and beer.
Every lunch and dinner on board includes free-flowing regional wines as well as complimentary beer and soft drinks. In Europe, complimentary sparkling wine is also served with breakfast. Every evening, there will be a special Networking Event. There is a full service bar that offers a wide variety of spirits most of the day and well into the night.
Enjoy a wide array of music and song from local entertainers brought aboard the ship several evenings. Dance away the night while enjoying your favorite tune played by our onboard musician.
The included Small Group Shore Excursions will take you to the heart of our destination, visiting its most famous landmarks as well as its hidden gems. You’ll find an intensive and immersive introduction to the culture and heritage of the region you are visiting. With Avalon Waterways, there is no waiting in line to visit famous landmarks, no getting lost as your bus drops you off within walking distance from your tour, and no language barrier as all Avalon Waterways guides and crew members speak English.
SCHEDULE
Bienvenue en France! Arrive Paris and take free time today to fall in love with the world’s most romantic city. Get inspired by its architectural icons, exquisite cuisine, chic boutiques, and priceless artistic treasures.
Hotel: Hotel Du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe Paris (or similar)
Join a Guided City Tour that shows the iconic sites of Paris, such as the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and the famous Champs-Élysées.
Spend your free time strolling through the Champs-Élysées for café au lait and croissants, see the exhibits at the Louvre, or visit Montmartre’s Basilica of the Sacré Cœur.
Consider browsing Paris’ classic shopping avenues and literary cafés for a true Parisian experience, or have your portrait sketched by a Parisian artist in the square at Place du Tertre.
Hotel: Hotel Du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe Paris (or similar)
Meal: Breakfast
Take a High-Speed Train from Paris to Dijon, to drive on to Beaune. Visit the Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, built in 1443, today home of the Van der Weyden’s painting of the Last Judgment and one of France’s architectural highlights.
This afternoon, travel to St. Jean de Losne to board your Suite Ship.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MÂCON
Ship: Poetry II
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.
Enjoy leisurely cruising en route to Mâcon along the majestic Saône River. Consider a Guided Optional Excursion to a Chardonnay wine cellar or to the Castle of Cormatin.
Later, enjoy a delicious Cheese Tasting on board your ship.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TRÉVOUX
Ship: Poetry II
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sail for lovely Lyon this morning. Upon arrival in Lyon, join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourviere Hill with its numerous churches. You’ll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafes, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux.
Later, spend free time riding a bike through Lyon’s town squares, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. Be our guest for a WWII & French Resistance your lecture on board your ship. Later enjoy live entertainment after dinner.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON
Ship: Poetry II
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Join a Culinary Walk through the city to discover why Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France. The rest of your day is free to explore, relax, or shop in France’s third largest city. Take a bike from the ship and explore local produce markets and parks or take a leisurely tour of the city’s more than 100 murals.
EVENING CRUISE TO TOURNON
Ship: Poetry II
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France’s oldest medieval cities. See its 16th-century castle, and Roman ruins between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage.
Enjoy a leisurely sail to Viviers after lunch.
VIVIERS - World History in a Charming French Country Village
Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on a late afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You’ll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AVIGNON
Ship: Poetry II
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities or take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.
This afternoon join a choice of Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region. Or explore Avignon on your own for the city’s art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint-Bénézet.
Later, enjoy onboard live entertainment.
EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES
Ship: Poetry II
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
If you are up for an Active adventure grab a Nordic walking stick for a hike with your Adventure Host. You may also want to enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You’ll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city, OR: Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist.
This afternoon consider a Guided Optional Excursion to the Carrières de Lumières (Cathedral of Images) a unique experience of art, sound, and light in the old quarries of Val d’Enfer.
Take free time to stop in Le Café van Gogh for a glass of wine.
EVENING CRUISE TO PORT ST. LOUISEVENING CRUISE TO PORT ST. LOUIS
Ship: Poetry II
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Flights should not leave Marseille airport before 10 am.
Daily Itinerary is subject to change. In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program. Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change is necessary, a substitute will be offered.
CABIN CHOICES:
Avalon Waterways has mastered the art of blending luxury with comfort, and now - blurring the line between outside and in. Not only are our Panorama SuitesSM on our Suite Ships® 30% larger than the industry standard staterooms, our wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows open wider than any other, creating river cruising’s only Open-Air BalconySM and an open invitation to discover and dream. And speaking of dreaming in our Panorama SuitesSM we've turned our beds to face the window, giving you a bed with a view for the sweetest visions ever. Even if you're a seasoned traveler, you've never seen Europe like this.
Imagine a TV screen measuring 11 ft. wide and 7 ft. tall. That's what we deliver...only better! Every Avalon Waterways' stateroom on two full decks of our Suite Ships features wall-to-wall windows, giving you panoramic, floor-to-ceiling views of Europe's awe-inspiring landscapes.
These wall-to-wall windows - in every Panorama Suite - open 7-feet wide and invite the outside to come in. And unlike traditional balconies, you can enjoy them year-round - at any time of the day, in any weather condition.
Peering through the looking glass to determine how we can continue to improve our cruisers on-board experiences, we have invested in the finest bathroom appointments available and such luxury touch-points such as L'Occitane toiletries, quality robes and slippers in each room, fleet-wide. We've also designed contemporary staterooms with the most available storage space, and plenty of "comfort touches" like complimentary bottled water
RATES
FOX World Travel is our designated travel associate for all EduCruises. To attend any of our CU EduCruises, you MUST book your cabin through Fox World Travel! They can be reached at:
EduCruises@foxworldtravel.com or 1-888-367-2571
Package Pricing: Based on Double Occupancy
- Category B Cabin: $6,561.00 per person, double occupancy (French Balcony)
- Category A Cabin: $6,613.00 per person, double occupancy (French Balcony)
- Category P Cabin: $6,716.00 per person, double occupancy (French Balcony)
Avalon Waterways Early Booking Discount:
Deposit by February 26, 2021 and receive $850.00 cabin discount per person
Not Included: Airline flights, air-imposed baggage fees, gratuities for airport porters, meals (other than those included in the package); optional excursions that may be offered, and any items of a personal nature. Travel insurance protection is not included. Ask your travel consultant about our reasonable options.
Single Supplement: Call for pricing
Initial Deposit: $400.00 per person
Final Payment: No later than May 2, 2021
Requirements: A valid US passport is necessary with a minimum validity of 6 months from date of return
Cancellation Penalties:
From date of deposit to May 2, 2021 Initial deposit - $400.00 per person
May 3, 2021 – June 10, 2021 - 50% package price cancellation fee
June 11, 2021 – July 9, 2021 - 75% package price cancellation fee
July 10, 2021 to 0 days prior to travel - No refunds
- Transfers to the hotel from the Paris Airport if arriving day of program and departing to the Marseille Airport on day of departure, are an additional cost - $35.00 each way per person (2020 pricing) rates subject to change for 2021 pricing
CU EduCruises Conference Fee:
* $1,700.00 registration fee for the Conference attendee if paid by check
* $1,800 registration fee for the Conference attendee if paid by credit card
* Book by January 1, 2021 and receive a $100 conference registration fee discount!
*Avalon Waterways New Policy. This special offer only applies to 2021 sailings aboard an Avalon Waterways River Ship
WHAT YOUR RATE INCLUDES:
- Two-nights hotel accommodations in Paris, at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Arc De Triomphe Paris (or similar) including breakfast at the hotel
- High Speed train from Paris to Dijon
- Deluxe 7-night Avalon river cruise in a river view stateroom on the beautiful Avalon Poetry II
- Complimentary pre-paid gratuities to your shipboard staff, local guides, and coach drivers
- All meals onboard the ship with Chef-inspired regional recipes to include:
- Daily four-course à la carte dinner in the main dining room
- Daily breakfast with made-to-order egg station, hot and cold menu items
- Daily lunch with pasta or carving stations
- Captivating onboard local entertainment
- Luxuriously appointed river view staterooms with hotel beds, hair dryer, safe and flat-screen TV with satellite for complimentary movie and entertainment options
- Remarkable service from your English-speaking crew and on-board tour director
- Customized informative travel documents containing all trip details and helpful packing and planning information
* Not Included: Travel Insurance; transfers, medical services; airline imposed baggage fees; airport gratuities to baggage handlers, or any other items of a personal nature. A valid passport is required. Travel insurance protection is not included. Ask your FOX World Travel consultant about our reasonable options.
To attend this conference and/or to take advantage of these low group rates, all cabin reservations must be booked through “FOX World Travel”, our designated travel affiliate.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Contact our FOX World Travel Team at:
educruises@foxworldtravel.com
Toll Free: 1-888-367-2571