Friday, December 24, 2021

RECIPE: Christmas Cocktail: Parisian Poinsettia

 Christmas Cocktail: Parisian Poinsettia
 
To get you in the festive spirit, here’s our Parisian Poinsettia cocktail recipe – the perfect fusion of champagne, triple sec and cranberry juice…
 

The Perfect Poinsettia 
 
Best served in a martini glass, or a stemmed red wine glass, the Parisian Poinsettia cocktail truly packs a punch when the rim is sugar-coated. Getting the perfect proportions can be tricky when making more than one Poinsettia cocktail. If that’s the case, use measuring equipment to ensure ideal measures when decanting. Don’t forget to leave enough ice if you prefer your Poinsettia cocktail on the rocks! Start by filling your glass by a third, before adding your ice cubes, then topping up. Prefer your Poinsettia cocktail on the rocks? Just be sure everything (including your glass) is perfectly chilled before serving…
 
Ingredients
  • 25ml triple sec
  • 50ml cranberry juice
  • 75ml champagne (or prosecco)
 
Method
  1. Chill the triple sec, cranberry juice, champagne and a martini glass in the fridge until cold.
  2. Pour the triple sec and cranberry juice into the chilled sugar-rimmed glass, then slowly top up with the champagne and perhaps garnish with a bay leaf. 
 
Enjoy !
 
 
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We have many special offers that may be of interest


Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

 

Sunday, December 19, 2021

Delicious & Easy Christmas Treats

Delicious & Easy Christmas Treats
 
Olivia Gibbons, co-owner and chef of the popular Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess, shares a delectable mince pie recipe for the holiday season.
 


Mince Pies
 
Did you know that the origin of the humble mince pie lies in the Middle East? It eventually made its way west and became part of the Christmas tradition throughout the UK and Ireland.
 
These little treats are a welcome sight leading up to and during the festive season. Lovely with a cup of tea and if you are feeling indulgent, add a spoonful of brandy cream. 
 

Ingredients

  • 225g/ 8oz Plain Flour
  • 125g/ 4oz Golden Caster Sugar
  • 100g Ground Almonds
  • 125g/ 4oz Butter or Margarine (room temperature)
  • 1 Egg (beaten)
  • A little water, if necessary
  • 450g/ 1lb Jar Mincemeat
  • Icing sugar 

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6. Lightly grease patty/bun tins.
  2. Put flour, sugar and ground almonds into a mixing bowl and mix well together.
  3. Rub butter/margarine through the dry ingredients. Add the beaten egg (and water if required) and mix to a soft dough.
  4. Turn onto a lightly floured board and gently knead.
  5. Cover with cling film and keep in fridge until ready to use. The pastry will keep for about three days.
  6. Roll pastry on a floured board and cut rounds or stars with a cutter to fit greased bun/patty tins. Put a teaspoon of mincemeat in each and cut a lid from remaining pastry to put on top. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Dust with icing sugar.
Enjoy!
 

About The Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess


Shannon Princess Barging Cruises In Ireland


Shannon Princess

The Shannon Princess has been thoughtfully designed throughout. The barge's inviting interior makes a charming floating living space – a perfect "Home away from home" for guests to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by Ruairi and Olivia’s love of antiquities, crafts, pottery and art with many works by established and local Irish artists.  Onboard the barge a friendly & relaxed mood has been created by carefully mixing casual informality with quality service.

The Shannon Princess provides accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as double or twins, each with ensuite facilities. This barge is owner-operated with a total of five professional crew in attendance.You will be charmed with excellent but friendly service, gorgeous food & wines, and share in a slice of local life and knowledge.
 
Shannon Princess has been awarded the COVID 19 Safety Charter by Failte Ireland (the Irish Tourism board) which is endorsed by the Government of Ireland. This included ongoing onboard inspections to assess us for compliance, best practice and the successful implementation of the charter. All our crew have completed an approved course that meets the requirements of Failte Ireland's COVID 19 Safety Charter. This course covers procedures relating to COVID 19 prevention within the hospitality industry.
 
Shannon Princess is completely booked for 2022. There are some openings for 2023 but hurry, they book quickly.




See Ireland from a different point of view






Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess' online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

 

Friday, November 19, 2021

Black Friday Specials - Save 30%

Black Friday Specials
2022 Hotel Barge Charters


 
In recognition of Black Friday, how about we make luxury a little more affordable? Book a 2022 private barge charter between Friday 26th November and Friday 3rd December, 2021 and enjoy a 30% discount for 6-night cruises aboard Anjodi, L’Art de Vivre, and L’Impressionniste.
 
View their brochures to learn more about the barge, their itineraries, cuisine, photos, videos, etc.
 
 
Anjodi
 
 

2022 Dates:  March 27-April 2 and April 3-9
Route: Canal du Midi, Marseillan to Le Somail
Discounted price: $25,900 for up to 8 guests (normally $37,000)
Online brochure: Click Here
 
A cruise aboard Anjodi along the 330 year-old Canal du Midi in the South of France is an absolute must. Enjoy a private wine tasting experience at the Chateau Pech-Celeyran, cruise in the shadows of the world’s oldest canal tunnel at Malpas, visit the spectacular hilltop village of Minerve, and tour Carcassonne’s medieval city. The Canal du Midi has an excellent towpath for walking and cycling.
 
 
L'Art de Vivre
 
 
 
2022 Dates:  April 3-9 and April 10-16
Route: Burgundy, Canal du Nivernais, Auxerre to Chevroches
Discounted price: $25,900 for up to 8 guests (normally $37,000)
Online brochure: Click Here
 
This region of Burgundy on the edge of the Morvan hills with its charming villages and steeped in history is a magnificent area for your next barge cruise. Explore enchanting Auxerre and its majestic cathedral, enjoy a private wine tasting and tour at the prestigious Chablis house of Domaine Laroche followed by a delicious gourmet lunch in the Domaine's dining hall, visit the picturesque town of Vezelay and its hilltop basilica, you may also choose to explore on foot or bicycle on the towpath along the canal.
 
 
L'Impressionniste
  


2022 Dates:  April 3-9 and April 17-23
Route: Burgundy, Canal de Bourgogne, Escommes to Fleurey-sur-Ouche
Discounted price: $44,450 for up to 12 guests (normally $63,500)
Online brochure: Click Here
 
L’Impressionniste cruises the Canal du Bourgogne through the picturesque Ouche Valley in Southern Burgundy, a region famed for its history and viticulture. Visit tthe Clos de Vougeot, home of the Chevaliers du Tastevin, an exclusive fraternity that awards a special prized label to the finest Côte d‘Or vintages every year. Discover the vineyards of the Côte de Beaune and enjoy a private tour and wine tasting at the renowned Domaine Chanson followed by a private gastronomic lunch in the domaine's château. Experience a majestic falconry display at the Château de Commarin with the chance of meeting the Count. There are plenty of opportunities to walk or cycle along the towpath of the canal.


The Black Friday offers mentioned above are valid Friday 26th November to Friday 3rd December 2021. They are applicable to new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other listed offers. A booking can only be held as an option for a maximum of 24 hours. 
 
 
Black Friday deals go fast...

You have a week until Black Friday; plenty of time to consult with family and friends about this exceptional offer.
 
Inquire

 
 10% off selected 2022 cabin bookings and private charters, when booked by
10th January, 2022.
 

Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

 



Saturday, September 04, 2021

Special Offers on Barge Cruises 2021

Save on Barge Cruises for September & October 2021
 
French Hotel Barge Finesse
 
We have updated our special offers page for the remaining barges cruises of the 2021 season. If you have been dreaming about barging, perhaps now is the time.

 
Inquire

We have many special offers that may be of interest


Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

 

Thursday, August 05, 2021

US Passport Renewal

Do You Need To Renew Your Passport?
 

The State Department is struggling with a backlog of passport applications, just as many Americans are making plans to travel abroad. The department says mail delays, a shutdown of their online booking system, and staffing shortages are part of the problem -- CBS News, July 23, 2021.
 
Most countries demand that you have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months when you arrive in their country. Please take this into account when booking your charter.


Let's Go Barging !
 
 
Inquire

We have many special offers that may be of interest


Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

 

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

French Hotel Barge Rendez-Vous News

NEWS:
French Hotel Barge Rendez-Vous
 
 
French Barge Rendez-Vous — Barge cruises in Southern Burgundy, France
 
We are excited to announce that the French Hotel Barge Rendez-Vous will be converted into a 4-passenger barge for the 2023 season, resulting in two larger guest cabins.
 
The high level of service, cuisine and experience will be maintained, as well as the inclusion of round-trip, chauffeured transfers between Paris and the barge.

The 2023 charter rate for 4 guests will be $30,000 and select high-season weeks in the autumn will be $32,000 for an all-inclusive, 6-night barge cruise in Burgundy France.

An updated floor plan and cabin dimensions are not yet available but we will keep you updated as the news of this refit evolves.
 
Enjoy a French Canal Cruise
 
Inquire


Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

 
 
 

 

Monday, July 26, 2021

RECIPE: Gruyère de Comté and Poppy Seed Lollipops

Gruyère de Comté and Poppy Seed Lollipops
 
A great choice for show-stopping canapés or a wonderful homemade gift for your loved ones, these Gruyère de Comté and poppy seed lollipops are sure to be a festive favorite.
 

 
Equipment
 
  • 2 large baking trays
  • 10 lollipop sticks
  • Greaseproof paper
  • Cellophane wrap and string or polystyrene block for decoration (optional)

Ingredients

  • 80g Gruyère de Comté finely grated (you can use Italian Parmesan or Swiss Gruyère as alternatives)
  • 1 tsp poppy seeds
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
 
Method
 
  1. Preheat your oven on a high heat, at around 220 °C (425°F)
  2. Get two large flat baking trays and line with greaseproof paper
  3. Combine the Gruyère de Comté, poppy and sesame seeds together in a bowl
  4. If you have a 9cm chef’s ring or cookie cutter, place on the baking paper and add a thin layer of the mixture (approx. 1-2cm thick). Alternatively, you can draw a circle around the base of a circular mug or glass to use as a template. When baking, the mixture spreads so ensure there’s plenty of space between each one!
  5. For added magic, place a lollipop stick on top, with the tip in the centre of the cheese disc. If you have any spare Gruyère de Comté – cover the tip of the stick so it’s extra-secure
  6. Repeat the process – you should have around 10 lollipops in total
  7. Bake for 5 minutes on the middle shelf until golden and bubbling
  8. Once baked, slide the discs onto a cooling rack to avoid a soggy bottom!
  9. When cooled, place the lollipop in a small cellophane bag and tie with festive string for the perfect homemade present, or for a fabulous centerpiece, decorate a styrofoam block and pierce each with a lollipop stick!

Ready for a Barge Cruise?
 
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We have many special offers that may be of interest


Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

  
 

Friday, July 16, 2021

UPDATE: Save 30% with Savoir Vivre in Burgundy, France

 French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre

 Burgundy, France
 

UPDATE: Another cabin week has been added
 
The French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre, cruising the Canal du Bourgogne in southern Burgundy, now has four weeks open for the 2021 barging season.
 
1) August 29 - September 4, 2021 (value season)
  • 1 cabin available with a 30% discount bringing the price down to only $2,800 per person, double occupancy, for an all-inclusive, 6-night cruise.
2) September 5-11, 2021
  • 1 cabin available with a 30% discount bringing the price down to only $2,975 per person, double occupancy, for an all-inclusive, 6-night cruise. Yes, a discount for a week in September.
3) September 12-18, 2021
  • 2 cabins available with a 30% discount bringing the price down to only $2,975 per person, double occupancy, for an all-inclusive, 6-night cruise. Yes, a discount for a week in September.
 
One charter week is still available for this season
 
October 24-30, 2020: available for a full-boat charter (4 cabins open). This is a value season priced week:
  • 4 guests = $28,000
  • 6 guests = $29,000
  • 8 guests = $30,000
 

About Savoir Vivre
 
 
The luxury crewed French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE offers both cabin cruises and private barge charters along the Canal de Bourgogne in the Burgundy region of France.


Savoir Vivre is 80 feet long, air conditioned (central heating, too), and has 4 identical guest cabins which can be configured with a queen or two twin beds, each having ensuite private bathrooms.

Savoir Vivre is a bit different to the other hotel barges that we represent as they do not have an onboard chef. Pastries for the continental breakfast are supplied by the local baker. Lunches are freshly prepared and provided by private chef who meets up with the boat with their prepared meal. Dinners are off the boat in locally selected restaurants (included in charter fee).
 
Treat Yourself to a Relaxing French Canal Cruise
 
Inquire


Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 


Saturday, July 10, 2021

A History of Western Provence Wines

A History of Western Provence Wines
 
Want to know more about Western Provence wines? This handy little guide will reveal everything you need to know… 

 
The city of Massalia, (modern day Marseille), was founded by the Phoenicians in 6th century BC. Traders from the east plied the Mediterranean and brought vines and wine to the area, planting grapes throughout the south of France. The wines produced during this period were not "red" as we think of red wine today. Grapes were pressed and processed very quickly, giving the wines a pale color.
 
 
When the Romans took control of the region in the 2nd century, the pink wines of Massalia were already famous and coveted throughout the ancient world. Having access to the Roman Empire’s trade network only spread the wine’s popularity. The Romans created Provence without greatly changing the Italian mode. Their cities and monuments are still its grandest features. The name Provence comes from the Latin “Nostra Provincia” meaning “our province”. Provence wines on the other hand, was, until very recently, nothing special: largely overstrong and under-flavored rosé. The region was argued over by rulers of Barcelona, the Kingdom of Burgundy, the Holy Roman Empire and was dominated by the Catholic Church. Each culture contributed to the vast array of grapes now grown in Provence, but it was the Catholic monks who designed the vineyards and developed winemaking techniques which today are so important.
 
Despite its place in history, Provence is in the shadow of more prestigious areas – but things are changing! Sales of rosé, particularly in the United States, are on the upswing, growing faster than other styles of wine. Once again, "pink wine" is chic and Provence is the benchmark for rosé. Ambitious, stylish and wealthy immigrants are often drawn to Provence’s legendary countryside and climate, and many have reinvented Provence wines. An increasing proportion of its rosé wines are gently made, intriguingly perfumed and dry enough to be perfectly paired with the garlic and olive oil which characterises the region’s cuisine. The second largest, and most western, AOC in Provence, Coteaux d’Aix en Provence is heavily influenced by the famous Mistral winds, and its landscape is as soft and undramatic as the wines tend to be. The vineyards here date back as far as 600 BC and were prized by the Royal Courts of Europe in the 15th century.
 
 
Today, rosé is king and is usually a blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault, Syrah and Counoise. Cabernet Sauvignon is grown here too. Perhaps one of the most interesting domains in Côteaux d’Aix-en-Provence is the Château Vignelaure. Acquired by Georges Brunet of Bordeaux just after the Second World War, the winery sought to pioneer Provençal blends of Syrah and the non-native Cabernet Sauvignon. In the west of the region, producers use a higher concentration of Cabernet Sauvignon, which helps distinguish their wines. The vintners around Les Baux produce some exceptionally good wines, and many of their vineyards are organic.
 
Between Aix and the River Rhône is the sub appellation Les Beaux de Provence which was created in 1995 and named after the extraordinary hilltop village of the same name. Les Baux de Provence is probably the warmest part of Provence and its home to the Val d’Enfer or the “Valley of Hell”. Vineyards lie on the hillsides of the Alpilles mountains and, although the climate and rugged terrain are inhospitable, the conditions are perfect for grapes. On average, vines need a minimum of 1,400 hours of sunshine per year to produce ripe fruit. Les Beaux averages 2,700-3,000 hours per year. The AOC regulations now permit white Les Beaux de Provence, made mainly from Clairette, Grenache Blanc and the ever-growing-in-popularity Vermentino. Warmed by the sea and buffeted by Provence’s famous Mistral, this area is even better suited to organic viticulture than the rest of Provence. The Mistral wind keeps everything dry, so rot is not a problem and the average 3,000 hours of sun doesn’t hurt either! Today, 41% of the Provence wine-makers have "gone green".
 

As might be expected of a region with a history of wine growing dating back to Roman times, Provence harbors some well-established wine zones. Perhaps the most historic is Palette on the north-facing, limestone-influenced bank of the River Arc just east of Aix, where the Rougier family of Château Simone have been making wine for over 200 years. Cassis, centered on the small port to the east of Marseille, also makes a serious effort with its distinctive, herbal-scented white wines which can be perfectly paired with the infamously local dish bouillabaisse.
 
Discover Provence
 
Inquire

We have many special offers that may be of interest


Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com