Within two years of discovering patchwork, Michelle was working for an Australian distributor of American patchwork cottons, as a sample maker. This allowed her to work from home, around the responsibilities of her two small children. It also meant that she was exposed to many styles of fabrics, and stepped up to the challenge of designing quilts in all genres. It was during this time that her work was noticed by magazine editors. She was among the contributors included in the first edition of Australian Patchwork and Quilting magazine. Her quilts have received numerous awards at the NSW Quilter’s Guild Quilt Shows. Since 2008 Michelle has escorted Australian quilters overseas on patchwork tours to America, Canada, Japan, Vietnam, Singapore and Europe for Travelrite International and Quilter’s Companion. When not traveling on tours, Michelle teaches workshops around Australia, and New Zealand. She loves teaching others the skills required to make new quilt designs and to understand the best way to use fabrics. She also loves to help others spend their money in the patchwork shops on tour!
VIEW ITINERARY Day 1 - Sunday, 10 May 2026 Depart Australia
Today we depart Australia on our overnight flights to Nice, France.
Day 2 - Monday, 11 May 2026 Nice, France
This afternoon we arrive into Nice. On arrival, we are transferred to our hotel
in Nice on the shore of the gorgeous Bais de Angers, a jewel on the
Mediterranean.
Day 3 - Tuesday, 12 May 2026 Nice
This morning, we will travel to Monte Carlo in the fairy-tale principality of
Monaco, most noted for its glamorous atmosphere. It is considered Monaco's
wealthiest district. It is the location of the cathedral built in 1878, where
Princess Grace is buried and the Royal Palace, home to Prince Albert 2. We
see the Formula One Grand Prix circuit in Monaco. We will travel along the
spectacular Grand Corniche, the most famous panoramic road in the world,
and see the memorable French Riviera on our journey to Nice. We will explore
Nice’s narrow picturesque streets with free time to wander. This evening, we
enjoy a welcome dinner, and Michelle Marvig will outline the wonderful
experiences we will have during the tour.
Day 4 - Wednesday, 13 May 2026 Nice
This morning, we visit Toto Tissus in Nice, which sells a vast array of fabrics.
We then travel to Grasse, where we will have free time for lunch. In the
afternoon Michelle will lead the group on our visit to the Museum of Costume
and Jewelry. We will also visit the Fragonard perfume factory before heading
back to our hotel.
Day 5 - Thursday, 14 May 2026 Arles, France
Today we travel to Arles, famed for inspiring the painting of Van Gough. On
arrival, we enjoy an orientation tour including the Arles Amphitheater, built by
the Romans in 90 AD to hold over 20,000 spectators, the Saint-Trophime
Church and the Place du Forum, before continuing to Avignon. Those wishing
to dine with the group please meet in the hotel lobby this evening.
Day 6 - Friday, 15 May 2026 Arles
Today we travel to Aix-en-Provence, the old capital of Provence. We will see
the old town with its gorgeous 18th and 19th century squares, many of them
with attractive fountains in their center and beautiful sandstone buildings. We
will visit Calissone, which stocks sewing tools, threads, patterns and an
enticing selection of fabrics. There will be time to explore the many
interesting shops and cafes. In the afternoon, we visit Musée des Tapisseries,
housed on the 1st floor of the former Archbishop's Palace. The collection,
made up of 17th and 18th century tapestries, consists of three suites, with: 'The
Grotesque', inspired by Berain, 'The Story of Don Quixote', by Natoire and
'Russian Games', by Leprince. There are also some remarkable pieces of
furniture.
Day 7 - Saturday, 16 May 2026 Arles
This morning we travel to Uzes, a charming medieval city. We walk to the
arcade-lined Place aux Herbes where the enormous Saturday market takes
place. We see many di"erent types of olives, exotic local herbs, all kinds of
food and local craft items. We have time to buy local specialities and lunch
before continuing to visit Pont du Gard, one of the seven wonders of the
Ancient World. The aqueduct is part of a system, which brought spring water
from a catchment area near Uzes to Nimes: it was built in the first century and
despite its two thousand years it is still in good condition. Our last stop of the
day will be at the Musée du Vieux Nîmes, which takes you through the origins
and legend of jeans and cashmere shawls.
Day 8 - Sunday, 17 May 2026 Arles
This morning, we enjoy a walking tour with a local guide to explore the sights of
Avignon. We will see the Palace des Popes, the seat of the popes from 1309 until
1377, Place d’Horloge and learn about the interesting history of the city. After
lunch, we travel to Tarascon to visit the Souleiado Textile Museum. It was
established in a typical Provencal interior. It contains several rare pieces of
printed cloth, popular 18th -19th century Provencal costumes and a large
collection of earthenware, pottery and paintings. In the evening, the tour
manager will meet those wishing to dine with the group.
Day 9 - Monday, 18 May 2026 Clermont-Ferrand, France
Today we travel through a sparsely populated area including the Aubrac
Natural Regional Park for our overnight stay in Clermont-Ferrand, bordered by
the volcanic Chaîne des Puys mountains, which provided the black rock for
the Gothic Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Cathedral.
Day 10 - Tuesday, 19 May 2026 Blois, France
Today we travel through the gorgeous French countryside to Blois, situated
on the Loire River. During the Renaissance it was the o cial residence of the
King of France and the location of the Chateau Royal de Blois. On arrival we
check into our hotel and the remainder of the day is free.
Day 11 - Wednesday, 20 May 2026 Blois
Today we travel through the Loire Valley to visit the Festival des Jardin de
Chaumont sur Loire, which started in 1992 to introduce the public to
imaginative and innovative new designs. The thirty show gardens are
selected from designs submitted by landscapers from around the world and
are set within landscaped grounds. In the afternoon we visit the famous 16th
century Chateau Villandry, renowned for its ornamental vegetable gardens.
The ornamental formal garden has been terraced into three levels, displaying
hedges of box, fine yew topiaries and flowers. The lowest level is the famous
potager, which has a checkerboard design and elevates vegetable growing to
a fine art. We will return to Blois for an evening at leisure.
Day 12 - Thursday, 21 May 2026 Blois
The morning, we will enjoy visits to two quilt shops. Our first stop is at
J’Imagine Quilt, that sells a variety of fabrics and haberdashery. We continue
to De Mailles en Tissus, a general sewing store. This afternoon’s treat is a trip
to Chateau de Chenonceau, spanning the River Cher, which reflects its stately
beauty. Known as the ‘Ladies Castle’, its design and charm are a result of six
important women throughout its history. Two large formal gardens and
extensive woodland surround this fairytale chateau.
Day 13 - Friday, 22 May 2026 Angers
Today we travel through the countryside to Angers, which overlooks the
Maine River. On arrival, we will explore Château d'Angers, a massive
9th-century fortress which houses the extraordinary Apocalypse Tapestry.
This tapestry is the world’s largest medieval tapestry, created in the
14th-century. Spanning 103 meters, it vividly illustrates scenes from the Book
of Revelation, showcasing dramatic imagery of judgment, the end of the
world, and the battle between good and evil. In the evening, the tour manager
will meet those wishing to dine with the group.
Day 14 - Saturday, 23 May 2026 Angers
This morning, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Angers, including the historic
Saint-Maurice Cathedral, the Botanical Gardens and the Museum of Jean
Lurcat. The museum is dedicated to contemporary tapestry art, showcasing
the works of artist Jean Lurcat, who revitalized tapestry weaving in the 20th
century, creating large-scale, modern pieces. After time for lunch, we visit
Pappa Pique et Mamon store, which o"ers a large range of fabrics.
Day 15 - Sunday, 24 May 2026 Mont St Michel, France
Today we travel north to Mont St Michel. Along the way we will stop in the
vibrant town of Rennes. As you stroll down its cobbled streets, you'll be charmed
by lively café terraces, stunning Art Deco architecture and welcoming
restaurants. We continue to Mont St Michel, checking into our hotel late
afternoon.
Day 16 - Monday, 25 May 2026 Mont St Michel
Mont St Michel is an iconic island commune located o" the coast of
Normandy, France. Famed for its striking medieval abbey, it rises dramatically
above the surrounding tidal waters, o"ering visitors a rare blend of history and
natural beauty. The abbey is reached via the steep winding village street,
lined with museums, restaurants, hotels and shops. The abbey’s imposing
architecture dates to medieval times, and still inspires awe, showing both
military and religious strength. We enjoy a full day exploring the island before
returning to our hotel.
Day 17 - Tuesday, 26 May 2026 Paris, France
Today we travel to Paris. Along the way, we will stop in Caen to visit Atlier de
la Souris. This small but delightful quilting shop sells fabric by the metre,
patchwork supplies, presents and home décor items. On arrival into Paris late
afternoon, we check into our hotel. This evening we will enjoy a farewell
dinner and say goodbye to Michelle and group members.
Day 18 - Wednesday, 27 May 2026 Departure
After breakfast we are transferred to the airport to begin our journey home.
Day 19 - Thursday, 28 May 2026 Arrive Australia
We arrive in Australia and tour arrangements conclude.
| Twin Fare | Single Fare |
|---|---|
| $10,990 | $13,490 |
Touring can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair climbing in the places visited and it is important that all tour participants have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in this activity without the need of assistance from others.
Tour Operator: Travelrite International Pty Ltd, (ABN 64 005 817 078) is the tour operator.
Tour Costs: The tour costs are based on general transport, entry, and accommodation costs as at 1 April 2025. Travelrite reserves the right to alter the costs if any of these factors change, giving any passenger that has booked the right to withdraw with full refund of monies paid or modify arrangements. No alterations to price will be made within 60 days of departure from Australia.
Deposit and Payments: A non-refundable deposit of $900 per passenger is required at the time of booking. Full payment will be required 62 days before departure. Cancellation over 62 days before the tour departs results in loss of deposit. Cancellation under 62 days before the tour departs will result in a loss of all monies paid. Payment may be made by cheque or cash a 1.5% administration fee will be charged on payments made by credit cards.
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is recommended to cover the costs of cancellation fees due
to illness, death in family, etc.
Minimum Tour Numbers and Conditions:
The tour has been priced based on a minimum
number of passengers having booked 62 days prior to departure. Travelrite reserves the right
to cancel the tour, giving a full refund of all monies paid or o"er arrangements to proceed with
the tour at a modified cost.
Tour Organisation: Travelrite reserves the right to change advertised entrances if necessary for the smooth operation of the tour.
Refunds:
The tour is based on arrangements that do not allow for any refunds in respect to
sightseeing, accommodation, meals, airfare or other services not utilized after the tour has
commenced.
Baggage:
Tour members can only bring one large suitcase, no more than 23kg.
Tour Participation:
Children under 5 years of age are ineligible on coach & cruise tours. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Travelrite & Cruise Offers tours provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance, and do not require special assistance from Travelrite & Cruise Offers personnel. Travelrite and Cruise Offers reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt the individual cannot cope with the requirements of coach & cruise tour travel and who may require services and facilities that Travelrite & Cruise Offers cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold the Travelrite & Cruise Offers responsible for any decision made by any of them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you.
Responsibility: Travelrite International Pty Ltd. (ABN 64 005 817 078) is the tour organizer. Travelrite acts only as an agent in the making of arrangements for hotels, transportation, restaurants or any other service and does not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of negligence or a default of any hotel, carrier, restaurant, company or person rendering any services included in the tour, or by act of God. Further no responsibilities are accepted for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labour disputes, machinery break down, quarantine, government restraints, weather, terrorism or other causes beyond our control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expense, omission, delays, re-routing or acts of any government authority. The passage contract between the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the purchasers of this tour and/or the passengers. The right is reserved to withdraw any tour and/or make such changes in the tour as may be found desirable or necessary for the convenience of the parties and the proper carrying out of the tour. This contract shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be undertaken in the State of Victoria.
Delays and Unforeseen Events: You engage Travelrite International to book this tour on your behalf and you acknowledge that Travelrite International acts as your agent for the purpose of making contracts between you and the various providers of accommodation, transportation and other services that comprise the tour. Travelrite International may without reference to you provide or make available to you, or may as your agent engage any third party to provide or make available to you, any good or service which Travelrite International reasonably believes is necessary for your benefit to maintain the tour itinerary, repatriate you or otherwise accommodate, transport or sustain you in circumstances in which the tour itinerary fails wholly or partly for any reason. You appoint Travelrite International your attorney for this purpose. You agree to pay Travelrite International any cost thereof and you indemnify Travelrite International in respect of any cost it incurs in this regard. Travelrite advises you to obtain travel insurance generally including in respect of the risk that any such good or service may become required.
How to Book: Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and sending it with a non-refundable deposit of $900 per person to:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
423 Whitehorse Road Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information can be obtained by telephoning:
Toll Free: 1800 630 343
Telephone (03) 8803 6868
Email sales@travelrite.com.au
https://www.travelrite.com.au/
About Travelrite International: Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a well-established travel company which has been operating in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne for more than 40 years. It is fully ATAS accredited (No. A10538) and fully IATA acredited and directly represents the major airlines of the world and all major domestic and international tour and transport operators. Travelrite International has been operating special interest tours for 38 years, and now runs over 100 tours a year. Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a full member of the Australian Travel Industry Association – ATIA.
“The best Tour Manager I have ever had over all tour companies.”
“Michelle puts a huge amount of effort info making our trip as good as it can be. Wonderful!”
