Exploring the appeal of Normandy, France: Top 7 Attractions to Consider
Exploring Normandy: A Comprehensive Guide for Budget-Conscious Travelers
Normandy, France, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy that is sure to captivate any traveler. Here's a guide to help you plan your trip using points and miles to offset costs.
Flights
Most international flights to Normandy connect through Paris. Use points and miles to book your flight to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). Transferable credit card points often allow booking with multiple airline partners for the best redemption value.
Transport to Normandy
From Paris, take a train (using purchased tickets, though some rail systems accept loyalty redemptions or discounts) to towns near Normandy such as Caen or Pontorson for Mont St. Michel. Caen is a convenient base for lodging and exploring.
Lodging
Use hotel points from major chains (like Marriott, Hilton, or others) to book hotels in Normandy cities such as Caen or Bayeux. Points can often cover entire hotel stays, significantly reducing lodging costs. Booking platforms linked to points programs or transfer partners can increase options.
Tours and Extras
Some points programs partner with travel providers like Viator to book tours or experiences using points. Consider booking Normandy day tours (e.g., D-Day beaches, Mont St. Michel) through these platforms to save money on excursions.
Car Rentals
If you prefer renting a car to explore Normandy, many car rental companies allow redeeming points for cars, often through affiliated travel portals.
Luxury Properties
For those seeking a luxurious stay, La Ferme Saint Simeon in Honfleur and Cures Marines Hotel & Spa Trouville in Trouville-sur-Mer are luxury properties in the Hotel Collection that can be booked with American Express Membership Rewards points.
Experiencing Normandy
The region is renowned for its majestic coastlines, ancient architecture, and gastronomical richness. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Mont St. Michel, a magical destination with an abbey carved into the rock on an island accessible at low tide.
A trip to Normandy offers a balance of historical prominence, beautiful landscapes, gastronomical delights, and welcoming residents. From hearty foods like rabbit stew and locally raised lamb to the region's famous cheeses such as Camembert de Normandie and Pont-l'Éveque, there's something for every palate.
Affordable Accommodations
The Holiday Inn Express properties in Rouen and Caen are affordable options for travelers, with the Caen property being the closest to the Normandy beaches. Room rates for the Holiday Inn Express Rouen start at 15,000 IHG One Rewards points per night, and the Holiday Inn Express Caen-Epron from 20,000 points per night.
Historical Attractions
Bayeux, dating back to ancient Rome, is a must-visit. Its famous tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England in 1066 and the stunning Bayeux Cathedral and Notre Dame Cathedral are popular attractions. Rouen, known for its Gothic cathedrals, half-timbered structures, and pedestrian walkways, is another town worth exploring. The Joan of Arc museum and France's oldest inn, La Couronne, are located in Rouen.
In conclusion, planning early and leveraging transferable points will maximize savings. The next time you're in Paris, plan a few extra days to visit the Normandy region. You'll be grateful you made the trip.
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