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Beaujolais Travel Checklist

Beaujolais Travel Checklist

Beaujolais France Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow this timeline for an organized trip.

Phases of Preparation

Break down your planning into manageable stages.

3+

Months Before Travel

Flights & Visas

Book get your flights ahead of time, especially for high season. Research Schengen visa needs.

Insurance & Passport

Secure comprehensive travel insurance. Check your passport's validity (3+ months beyond departure).

Early Bookings

Book main accommodations and schedule your journey broadly.

1-2

Months Before Travel

Car Rental

Research and book your rental car. Confirm age and license requirements.

Language Basics

Begin learning basic French phrases for interactions.

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flight, accommodation, and excursion reservations.

2-4

Weeks Before Travel

Driving Permit

Obtain International Driving Permit (IDP) if needed.

Bank Notification

Notify banks of your trip dates to prevent card issues freezes.

Tech Prep

Acquire power adapter, consider international or local SIM card.

Required Bookings

Secure these in advance.

Reservations

  • Flights (especially peak season).
  • Accommodation (hotels, gîtes, B&Bs).
  • Rental Car.
  • Specific popular wine tours or tastings.

Pre-Trip Research

Learn about the destination.

Knowledge Building

  • Read up on Beaujolais wines, specifically the 10 Crus.
  • Learn about local history and culture.
  • Familiarize yourself with French dining etiquette.
  • Investigate local customs and social norms.

Home Preparation

Board these steps before leaving.

Before You Leave

  • Inform trusted friends or family of itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Secure your home: lock doors and windows, put on alarms.
  • Arrange for mail collection or hold service.
  • Empty trash and clean out the refrigerator.

Last Minute Checks

  • Reconfirm all winery appointments.
  • Download offline maps and translation packs.
  • Charge all electronics, including portable chargers.
  • Ensure what you've packed is complete.

Final Details

  • Double check all travel documents.
  • Create digital copies on phone and cloud.
  • Plan airport or train station arrival times.
  • Ensure home is secure for your absence.

Reminder for Documents

Keep physical and digital copies of all important travel documents accessible.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Beaujolais determine your trip's start.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Luggage

    Clear immigration with passport/visa ready. Collect luggage at baggage claim.

  • 2
    Transportation & Money

    Locate pre-arranged transport or taxi stands. Use an ATM for Euros; avoid airport exchange.

  • 3
    Connectivity & Essentials

    Acquire a local SIM card if planned. Make initial purchases such as water or snacks.

Transportation to Accommodation

  • From Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport:

    Rhônexpress tram to Lyon Part-Dieu, then TER train to Villefranche-sur-Saône, then local transport.

  • Rental Car:

    Pick up your pre-booked rental car at the airport and drive directly to Beaujolais.

  • Private Transfer:

    Meet your pre-booked private transfer for non-stop transport to your location.

Initial Settling

Map Your Location

Locate your accommodation on your offline map for immediate familiarity.

Orient yourself with nearby points of interest.

Confirm Connectivity

Ensure your phone or other devices establish network connection.

Access Wi-Fi at your accommodation for updated information.

Unpack Essentials

Unpack necessary items for your first day.

Store valuables securely within your accommodation.

Local Currency

ATMs generally provide the best exchange rates compared to currency exchange desks.

Departure Preparation

A few steps before leaving ensure a smooth exit plus go back home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Organize your souvenirs and wine purchases.
  • Check airline baggage allowances for weight and size.
  • Inquire about international wine shipping options at wineries.
  • Be aware of customs regulations and potential duties at home.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • For non-EU residents, claim VAT refund on eligible purchases.
  • Ask for a "détaxe" (tax refund) form in participating stores.
  • Present passport, forms, receipts, and merchandise at the border.
  • Get your forms stamped and proceed to the refund service counter.

Travel Timing

Leave enough time for airport or station processes.

Timing Recommendations

  • Airport:2-3 hours before international flight.
  • Airport:1.5-TWO hours for domestic flights/Schengen flight.
  • Train Station:15-20 minutes before departure.
  • VAT Refund:Allow extra time for processing.

Return Home

  • Double-check your return flight or train details.
  • Have your passport, boarding passes, and make sure your documents are easy to get to.
  • Confirm home status with trusted contacts if arranged.
  • Ensure all final tasks are complete for a smooth departure.

Wine Transport Tip

If shipping wine, confirm with wineries about their preferred carriers and home country regulations.

Specialized wine shippers are often available for larger quantities.