Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations

Whistler off-road tours

You'll find yourself enchanted by the cobblestone pathways, unique shops, and the aroma of gourmet cuisine wafting through the air. Learn more about Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations Here Whether it's the cascading waterfalls, the majestic forests, or the panoramic mountain vistas, each shot you take will encapsulate the essence of Whistler. Don't forget the iconic Peak 2 Peak Gondola ride. You'll find the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, a place where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of the local First Nations.
You can also make a big difference by choosing transportation wisely. Whistler sightseeing on a budget Nestled among breathtaking mountains, Whistler offers a diverse range of accommodations to ensure your stay is as comfortable as it's unforgettable. You'll step into the world of the First Nations people, uncovering stories, practices, and art that have shaped the region for centuries.
As day turns to night, Whistler transforms, offering luxurious nocturnal experiences that promise to enchant and delight.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler helicopter tours

  • Whistler underground tours
  • Whistler sightseeing packages
  • Whistler ferry tours
  • Whistler cultural tours
  • Whistler scuba diving tours
  • Whistler cultural experience tours
  • Romantic tours in Whistler
  • Whistler botanical garden tours
  • Whistler ghost tours
  • Whistler sightseeing deals
  • Whistler walking tours
  • Whistler bike tours
  • Whistler mountain biking tours
  • Sightseeing Whistler
  • Whistler winter sightseeing
  • Whistler Christmas market tours
  • Unique Whistler tours
  • Whistler wildlife tours
  • Whistler private tours
  • Whistler sightseeing itineraries
It's not just a tour; it's an opportunity to connect with nature, rejuvenate your senses, and create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Lean more about Star Sightseeing Tours Whistler here. Whether it's the Peak 2 Peak Gondola or a coveted table at a high-end mountain restaurant, Star Sightseeing ensures you're always in the best hands.
It's a skill that marries technology with the natural beauty of the cosmos, offering a unique souvenir of your journey-a snapshot of the universe as seen from Whistler. Star Sightseeing ensures your wildlife encounters are memorable and meaningful. Finally, equip yourself with a solar-powered charger to keep your devices powered up without relying on non-renewable energy sources.

After exploring the unique features that set this tour apart, let's take a closer look at the day-to-day adventures that await you in Whistler. After an exhilarating day, a gourmet dinner awaits at one of Whistler's top-tier restaurants – a reservation that's notoriously hard to secure, now made effortless for you. You'll not only see the sights but also learn about the local flora, fauna, and geography that make this place truly unique. It can lead to unhealthy dependencies on human-provided food and increase the risk of animal-human conflicts. Whistler road trips Moreover, preserving the night sky encourages sustainable tourism practices.

Your customizable sightseeing tour isn't just about exploring with your eyes; it's also about savoring with your palate. They're meticulously designed with high-end materials and thoughtful touches that elevate your relaxation experience. Star Sightseeing's team is on hand to adapt and refine your schedule, ensuring your experience is as dynamic and fulfilling as you hoped. Whether you're a photography enthusiast looking to capture the perfect shot or someone who appreciates the finer details of a destination, these tours are designed with your comfort and interests in mind.

As you embark on this adventure, you're not just a tourist; you're the star of your own story. Whistler fall sightseeing Next, familiarize yourself with the tour itinerary. The guides are experts in astronomy and local lore, ensuring you're not just seeing, but also understanding the celestial spectacle overhead.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler helicopter tours

  • Whistler botanical garden tours
  • Whistler ghost tours
  • Whistler sightseeing deals
  • Whistler walking tours
  • Whistler bike tours
  • Whistler mountain biking tours
  • Sightseeing Whistler
  • Whistler winter sightseeing
  • Whistler Christmas market tours
  • Unique Whistler tours
  • Whistler wildlife tours
  • Whistler private tours
  • Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  • Whistler adventure package tours
  • Whistler paddleboarding tours
  • Whistler day trips
  • Whistler sightseeing tickets
Meals become an adventure in themselves, with opportunities to taste local delicacies prepared by chefs who are eager to share their culinary stories.

You're not just going to eat; you're going to learn about the local cuisine and the stories behind the dishes. When you're gearing up for your 2025 adventure, consider how you can contribute to preserving the stunning natural beauty of this area. As you journey through this alpine paradise, you'll find each viewpoint offers a unique perspective. The rivers swell, offering exhilarating white-water rafting experiences that you won't forget.

Seasonal Sightseeing Whistler BC

Entity Name Description Source
Whistler Mountain A prominent mountain located in British Columbia, known for its ski resort and outdoor activities. Source
Nita Lake A serene lake located near Whistler, popular for canoeing and peaceful outdoor recreation. Source
Whistler Sliding Centre A world-class sliding track for bobsled, luge, and skeleton located in Whistler, used in the 2010 Winter Olympics. Source
Whistler Olympic Park A venue in Whistler used for cross-country skiing, ski jumping, and biathlon during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Source
All-terrain vehicle A vehicle designed for off-road use, typically with four wheels and large tires, used in rugged terrains. Source
Alpenglow The reddish or pinkish glow seen on mountain peaks at sunset or sunrise. Source
Tantalus Range A mountain range in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, known for its dramatic peaks. Source
Coast Mountains A major mountain range in British Columbia, known for its rugged terrain and scenic landscapes. Source
Glacial lake A lake formed by the melting of glaciers, often found in mountainous regions. Source
Bald eagle A large bird of prey native to North America, known for its white head and tail and symbolizing freedom. Source
Wildlife The collective term for animals that are not domesticated, living in their natural habitats. Source
Summer The warmest season of the year, often associated with outdoor activities and vacations. Source
Village A small community or settlement, typically located in rural or semi-rural areas. Source
Whistler, British Columbia A resort town in British Columbia, known for its skiing and outdoor recreational activities. Source

Boat Tours Whistler BC

Over two million people visit Whistler annually, primarily for alpine skiing and snowboarding and, in the summer, mountain biking at Whistler Blackcomb. Its pedestrian village has won numerous design awards, and Whistler has been voted among the top destinations in North America by major ski magazines since the mid-1990s. During the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler hosted most of the alpine, Nordic, luge, skeleton, and bobsled events.

Citations and other links

Guided family nature tours Whistler

Imagine starting your day with a private gondola ride to the mountain's peak, where you'll witness sunrise views that'll leave you breathless. Dive into the heart of Whistler by exploring the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, where you'll immerse yourself in the traditions of the local First Nations. In essence, these tours aren't just about seeing the sights; they're about creating unforgettable experiences that are as unique as you are. Stick around, and you'll discover how they transform a simple visit into an unforgettable adventure. With Star Sightseeing, these exclusive highlights aren't just possibilities-they're your reality.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler helicopter tours

  1. Whistler underground tours
  2. Whistler sightseeing packages
  3. Whistler ferry tours
  4. Whistler cultural tours
  5. Whistler scuba diving tours
  6. Whistler cultural experience tours
  7. Romantic tours in Whistler
  8. Whistler botanical garden tours
  9. Whistler ghost tours
  10. Whistler sightseeing deals
  11. Whistler walking tours
  12. Whistler bike tours
  13. Whistler mountain biking tours
  14. Sightseeing Whistler
  15. Whistler winter sightseeing
  16. Whistler Christmas market tours
  17. Unique Whistler tours
  18. Whistler wildlife tours
  19. Whistler private tours


It's a moment of pure tranquility, a rare chance to connect with the natural world on a profound level. They're not just chauffeurs; they're your guides to hidden gems and local favorites, making your journey an exploration of discovery.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler fall sightseeing

  1. Whistler wine tours
  2. Whistler night tours
  3. Whistler extreme sports tours
  4. Whistler tourist attractions
  5. Best places to visit in Whistler
  6. Best viewpoints in Whistler
  7. Whistler city tours
  8. Whistler fishing tours
  9. Whistler brewery tours
  10. Whistler scenic drives
  11. Whistler coastline tours
  12. Family-friendly tours in Whistler
  13. Whistler tour packages
  14. Whistler hop-on hop-off tours
  15. Whistler adventure tours
  16. Whistler photography tours
As you tread softly under the starlit sky, you'll discover secret viewpoints that offer unparalleled vistas of the night sky, with constellations and shooting stars visible to the naked eye. Here, in Whistler's deep wilderness, you're not just a visitor; you're part of a centuries-old story.

So, why settle for the ordinary when you can step into the extraordinary with Star Sightseeing, where every detail is curated to ensure your experience is nothing short of memorable?

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler road trips

  • Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  • Whistler adventure package tours
  • Whistler paddleboarding tours
  • Whistler day trips
  • Whistler sightseeing tickets
  • Whistler sightseeing with kids
  • Whistler art tours
  • Whistler wine tours
  • Whistler night tours
  • Whistler extreme sports tours
  • Whistler tourist attractions
  • Best places to visit in Whistler
  • Best viewpoints in Whistler
  • Whistler city tours
  • Whistler fishing tours
  • Whistler brewery tours
  • Whistler scenic drives
  • Whistler coastline tours
  • Family-friendly tours in Whistler
  • Whistler tour packages
This blend of physical activity and celestial navigation connects you to the environment and the night sky in a profoundly personal way.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler guided tours

  1. Whistler sightseeing with kids
  2. Whistler art tours
  3. Whistler wine tours
  4. Whistler night tours
  5. Whistler extreme sports tours
  6. Whistler tourist attractions
  7. Best places to visit in Whistler
  8. Best viewpoints in Whistler
  9. Whistler city tours
  10. Whistler fishing tours
  11. Whistler brewery tours
  12. Whistler scenic drives
  13. Whistler coastline tours
  14. Family-friendly tours in Whistler
  15. Whistler tour packages
  16. Whistler hop-on hop-off tours
  17. Whistler adventure tours
  18. Whistler photography tours
  19. Whistler snowboard tours
  20. Whistler sightseeing bus
Moreover, for those with specific needs or desires, the option to request special accommodations ensures everyone can join in and fully enjoy their visit to Whistler. Always keep a safe distance; getting too close can stress wildlife and alter their natural behaviors.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler urban exploration tours

  • Whistler private tours
  • Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  • Whistler adventure package tours
  • Whistler paddleboarding tours
  • Whistler day trips
  • Whistler sightseeing tickets
  • Whistler sightseeing with kids
  • Whistler art tours
  • Whistler wine tours
  • Whistler night tours
  • Whistler extreme sports tours
  • Whistler tourist attractions
  • Best places to visit in Whistler
  • Best viewpoints in Whistler
  • Whistler city tours
  • Whistler fishing tours


Soaring above the majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes gives you a bird's-eye view of the landscape, unveiling the grandeur of Whistler from an unparalleled perspective. So, strap on your helmet, tighten your harness, and dive into the adventure that awaits. Picture dining in a snow-covered cabin, with only the soft glow of lanterns and the tranquil silence of the forest around you. Whistler off-road tours The slopes are world-renowned, and there's something magical about gliding through the fresh powder under clear blue skies.

Guided family nature tours Whistler
Eco-friendly sightseeing Whistler

Eco-friendly sightseeing Whistler

Moreover, many of these accommodations offer on-site gourmet dining experiences, spa services, and easy access to both the slopes and Whistler's vibrant nightlife. Next, wear comfortable footwear. Star Sightseeing ensures that this adventure isn't just a memory, but a timeless bond with nature you'll cherish forever.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler ferry tours

  1. Whistler snowboard tours
  2. Whistler sightseeing bus
  3. Whistler Blackcomb sightseeing tours
  4. Whistler zipline tours
  5. Whistler ferry tours
  6. Whistler cultural tours
  7. Whistler scuba diving tours
  8. Whistler cultural experience tours
  9. Romantic tours in Whistler
  10. Whistler botanical garden tours
  11. Whistler ghost tours
  12. Whistler sightseeing deals
  13. Whistler walking tours
  14. Whistler bike tours
  15. Whistler mountain biking tours
  16. Sightseeing Whistler
  17. Whistler winter sightseeing
  18. Whistler Christmas market tours
  19. Unique Whistler tours
  20. Whistler wildlife tours
When you're exploring with Star Sightseeing, you're not just getting a tour; you're getting a premium experience that feels personalized just for you.

Patience is key; wildlife watching can require waiting quietly for periods, but the potential rewards of observing animals in their natural environment are well worth it. Each experience is tailored to your interests, ensuring you dive deep into the culture and come away with unforgettable memories. The day unfolds at your pace, ensuring you soak in every experience fully.

They'll take you kayaking on serene lakes, where the water is so clear, you can see the pebbled bottom beneath. Yet, here you are, considering an adventure with Star Sightseeing's luxury tours, aiming to explore this winter wonderland in a style that's usually reserved for glossy magazine spreads. Dressing in layers is key; the weather can change quickly, and you'll be moving between different altitudes.

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  • Whistler tour packages
  • Whistler hop-on hop-off tours
  • Whistler adventure tours
  • Whistler photography tours
  • Whistler snowboard tours
  • Whistler sightseeing bus
  • Whistler Blackcomb sightseeing tours
  • Whistler zipline tours
  • Whistler fall sightseeing
  • Whistler guided tours
  • Whistler photo tours
  • Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  • Whistler helicopter tours
  • Whistler festival tours
  • Whistler snowshoe tours
  • Whistler heritage tours
  • Whistler hot air balloon rides
  • Whistler village tours


You're not just a passenger on these tours; you're the co-creator of your own adventure. Perhaps you're keen on capturing the perfect sunrise over the peaks, or maybe it's the local wildlife that captivates your heart. Our expert guides will then lead you to hidden waterfalls and quiet lakes that most tourists never find.



Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler hot air balloon rides

  • Whistler bike tours
  • Whistler mountain biking tours
  • Sightseeing Whistler
  • Whistler winter sightseeing
  • Whistler Christmas market tours
  • Unique Whistler tours
  • Whistler wildlife tours
  • Whistler private tours
  • Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  • Whistler adventure package tours
  • Whistler paddleboarding tours
  • Whistler day trips
  • Whistler sightseeing tickets
  • Whistler sightseeing with kids
  • Whistler art tours
  • Whistler wine tours
  • Whistler night tours
  • Whistler extreme sports tours
  • Whistler tourist attractions

Sightseeing Excursions Whistler

Ensuring you're prepared for the physical demands of the tour and aware of any health advisories will keep you safe and comfortable throughout your adventure. Whistler ski resort tours You'll dive into Whistler's rich history and vibrant community life. These curated experiences offer you a deep dive into the heart of Whistler, far beyond the ski slopes and hiking trails. Star Sightseeing elevates the experience beyond the ordinary. These trails meander through lush forests, alongside babbling brooks, and under the expansive canopy of ancient trees, offering you a tranquil escape from the bustling world.

Whistler's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering an array of dining experiences that'll satisfy any palate. Whistler snowshoe tours As you navigate these heights, you'll understand why this region is revered by adventurers and nature lovers alike. Booking your stay in Whistler unlocks a range of exclusive perks that elevate your travel experience beyond the ordinary. With state-of-the-art telescopes and guided stargazing experiences, you're not just looking at the stars; you're traveling amongst them.

Star Sightseeing accepts various payment methods, making the process hassle-free. Star Sightseeing's drivers are professionals who know Whistler inside out. With these essentials in your pack, you're set for an unforgettable adventure in Whistler's stunning natural scenery.

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  1. Best places to visit in Whistler
  2. Best viewpoints in Whistler
  3. Whistler city tours
  4. Whistler fishing tours
  5. Whistler brewery tours
  6. Whistler scenic drives
  7. Whistler coastline tours
  8. Family-friendly tours in Whistler
  9. Whistler tour packages
  10. Whistler hop-on hop-off tours
  11. Whistler adventure tours
  12. Whistler photography tours
  13. Whistler snowboard tours
  14. Whistler sightseeing bus
  15. Whistler Blackcomb sightseeing tours
  16. Whistler zipline tours
  17. Whistler village tours
  18. Whistler mountain tours
  19. Whistler urban exploration tours
  20. Whistler road trips
And when winter rolls around, Whistler becomes a snowy paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, with slopes that cater to every skill level.

And for the avid photographers, these lake excursions offer unparalleled opportunities to capture the essence of Whistler's landscape, with each shot rivaling postcard perfection. Select the tour that captures your interest and fits your schedule. It's not just a journey between two mountains; it's a sky-high adventure that'll have you all spotting wildlife and marveling at the panoramic views. Options typically include credit cards and secure online payment systems, ensuring your information is protected.

Sightseeing Excursions Whistler
Whistler hiking trail adventures
Whistler hiking trail adventures

Moreover, Star Sightseeing values your comfort and convenience. As you explore the vast offerings, from unforgettable aerial tours that give you a bird's-eye view of the majestic landscapes, to exclusive cultural journeys that immerse you in the local heritage, you're guaranteed a travel experience like no other. Imagine stepping into a world where your sense of adventure isn't just met, but exceeded. After exploring the vibrant local culture, you'll be captivated by the stunning views that Whistler has to offer.
It's a special arrangement, tailored for those who book through Star Sightseeing, ensuring you start your day in the most magical way possible. Payment is the final step.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler local tour guides

  • Whistler night tours
  • Whistler extreme sports tours
  • Whistler tourist attractions
  • Best places to visit in Whistler
  • Best viewpoints in Whistler
  • Whistler city tours
  • Whistler fishing tours
  • Whistler brewery tours
  • Whistler scenic drives
  • Whistler coastline tours
  • Family-friendly tours in Whistler
  • Whistler tour packages
  • Whistler hop-on hop-off tours
  • Whistler adventure tours
  • Whistler photography tours
  • Whistler snowboard tours
  • Whistler sightseeing bus
Don't miss the chance to participate in a cooking class or a food tasting tour, where you can dive deeper into the local cuisine.
Our lead guide, Alex, has been exploring Whistler's mountains for over a decade. Your final day is all about relaxation. Read more about Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations Here It's a view that'll etch itself in your memory forever.
So, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious local, our Seasonal Highlights tours promise an unforgettable journey through the heart of Whistler, no matter the time of year. You can secure your spot through their user-friendly online booking platform, available 24/7, which means you can plan your adventure anytime, anywhere. These may include recommendations for vaccinations, fitness levels, or specific gear to bring along.

Lakeside tours near Whistler

It's a place where storytelling, art, and history come alive, letting you experience the soul of the land through the eyes of its original inhabitants. As the snow melts, spring breathes life into the landscape, with wildflowers peppering the meadows and vibrant greens taking over the mountainsides. Moreover, flexibility is key. Your guide, well-versed in the area's history and natural wonders, will share tales of the land and its people, adding layers to the visual spectacle before you.
The experience isn't just about the meal; it's an invitation to connect with nature, indulge in exquisite cuisine, and create unforgettable memories. Star Sightseeing ensures you don't miss out on these hidden gems. You'll come away with not just memories, but a profound connection to the land and its people, setting your Whistler experience apart from any other. Whistler urban exploration tours
The alpine meadows are in full bloom, and the lakes warm up, inviting you for a swim or to try your hand at fishing. As you explore this picturesque town, you'll discover everything from cozy cafes serving locally sourced coffee to upscale restaurants where world-renowned chefs craft exquisite dishes. Don't worry about getting too tired; there's a gourmet picnic waiting for you at the top.
It's an unforgettable experience that combines thrill with the beauty of nature.

Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations - Whistler local tour guides

  1. Whistler mountain biking tours
  2. Sightseeing Whistler
  3. Whistler winter sightseeing
  4. Whistler Christmas market tours
  5. Unique Whistler tours
  6. Whistler wildlife tours
  7. Whistler private tours
  8. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  9. Whistler adventure package tours
  10. Whistler paddleboarding tours
  11. Whistler day trips
  12. Whistler sightseeing tickets
  13. Whistler sightseeing with kids
  14. Whistler art tours
  15. Whistler wine tours
They understand that everyone's idea of adventure varies. You're not merely a spectator; you're an explorer delving into the mysteries of the universe.

Explore Hiking and Sightseeing Combinations Here
Lakeside tours near Whistler

 

Methods of travel in Hong Kong, the most visited city according to Euromonitor. Top to bottom: the Cross-Harbour Tunnel and the MTR.
Train travel – Passengers on a train on a bridge of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, between Mettupalayam and Ootacamund, in Tamil Nadu, India

Travel is the movement of people between distant geographical locations. Travel can be done by foot, bicycle, automobile, train, boat, bus, airplane, ship or other means, with or without luggage, and can be one way or round trip.[1] Travel can also include relatively short stays between successive movements, as in the case of tourism.

Etymology

[edit]

The origin of the word "travel" is most likely lost to history. The term "travel" may originate from the Old French word travail, which means 'work'.[2] According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the first known use of the word travel was in the 14th century. It also states that the word comes from Middle English travailen, travelen (which means to torment, labor, strive, journey) and earlier from Old French travailler (which means to work strenuously, toil).

In English, people still occasionally use the words travail, which means struggle. According to Simon Winchester in his book The Best Travelers' Tales (2004), the words travel and travail both share an even more ancient root: a Roman instrument of torture called the tripalium (in Latin it means "three stakes", as in to impale).[citation needed] This link may reflect the extreme difficulty of travel in ancient times. Travel in modern times may or may not be much easier, depending upon the destination. Travel to Mount Everest, the Amazon rainforest, extreme tourism, and adventure travel are more difficult forms of travel. Travel can also be more difficult depending on the method of travel, such as by bus, cruise ship, or even by bullock cart.[3]

Purpose and motivation

[edit]
Traveler's motorcycle with large rear box

Reasons for traveling include recreation,[4] holidays, rejuvenation,[5] tourism[4] or vacationing,[4] research travel,[4] the gathering of information, visiting people, volunteer travel for charity, migration to begin life somewhere else, religious pilgrimages[4] and mission trips, business travel,[4] trade,[4] commuting, obtaining health care,[4] waging or fleeing war, for the enjoyment of traveling, or other reasons. Travelers may use human-powered transport such as walking or bicycling; or vehicles, such as public transport, automobiles, trains, ferries, boats, cruise ships and airplanes.

Motives for travel include:

History

[edit]

Travel dates back to antiquity where wealthy Greeks and Romans would travel for leisure to their summer homes and villas in cities such as Pompeii and Baiae.[9] While early travel tended to be slower, more dangerous, and more dominated by trade and migration, cultural and technological advances over many years have tended to mean that travel has become easier and more accessible.[10] Humankind has come a long way in transportation since Christopher Columbus sailed to the New World from Spain in 1492, an expedition which took over 10 weeks to arrive at the final destination; to the 21st century when aircraft allows travel from Spain to the United States overnight.

Travel in the Middle Ages offered hardships and challenges, though it was important to the economy and to society. The wholesale sector depended (for example) on merchants dealing with/through caravans or sea-voyagers, end-user retailing often demanded the services of many itinerant peddlers wandering from village to hamlet, gyrovagues (wandering monks) and wandering friars brought theology and pastoral support to neglected areas, traveling minstrels toured, and armies ranged far and wide in various crusades and in sundry other wars.[9] Pilgrimages were common in both the European and Islamic world and involved streams of travelers both locally and internationally.[11]

In the late 16th century, it became fashionable for young European aristocrats and wealthy upper-class men to travel to significant European cities as part of their education in the arts and literature. This was known as the Grand Tour, and included cities such as London, Paris, Venice, Florence, and Rome. However, the French Revolution brought with it the end of the Grand Tour.[9]

Travel by water often provided more comfort and speed than land-travel, at least until the advent of a network of railways in the 19th century. Travel for the purpose of tourism is reported to have started around this time when people began to travel for fun as travel was no longer a hard and challenging task. This was capitalized on by people like Thomas Cook selling tourism packages where trains and hotels were booked together.[12] Airships and airplanes took over much of the role of long-distance surface travel in the 20th century, notably after the Second World War where there was a surplus of both aircraft and pilots.[9] Air travel has become so ubiquitous in the 21st century that one woman, Alexis Alford, visited all 196 countries before the age of 21.[13]

Geographic types

[edit]

Travel may be local, regional, national (domestic) or international. In some countries, non-local internal travel may require an internal passport, while international travel typically requires a passport and visa. Tours are a common type of travel. Examples of travel tours are expedition cruises,[14] small group tours,[15] and river cruises.[16]

Safety

[edit]
Travelers in a British Airways 747 airplane. Air travel is a common means of transport.
MS Skania ferry in the port of Szczecin

Authorities emphasize the importance of taking precautions to ensure travel safety.[17] When traveling abroad, the odds favor a safe and incident-free trip, however, travelers can be subject to difficulties, crime and violence.[18] Some safety considerations include being aware of one's surroundings,[17] avoiding being the target of a crime,[17] leaving copies of one's passport and itinerary information with trusted people,[17] obtaining medical insurance valid in the country being visited[17] and registering with one's national embassy when arriving in a foreign country.[17] Many countries do not recognize drivers' licenses from other countries; however most countries accept international driving permits.[19] Automobile insurance policies issued in one's own country are often invalid in foreign countries, and it is often a requirement to obtain temporary auto insurance valid in the country being visited.[19] It is also advisable to become oriented with the driving rules and regulations of destination countries.[19] Wearing a seat belt is highly advisable for safety reasons; many countries have penalties for violating seatbelt laws.[19]

There are three main statistics which may be used to compare the safety of various forms of travel (based on a Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions survey in October 2000):[20]

Mode Deaths per billion
Journeys Hours Kilometers
Bus 4.3 11.1 0.4
Rail 20 30 0.6
Air 117 30.8 0.05
Ship 90 50 2.6
Van 20 60 1.2
Car 40 130 3.1
Walking 40 220 54
Bicycle 170 550 45
Motorcycle 1640 4840 109

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Travel". Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Merriam-Webster. 12 Apr 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  2. ^ Entymoligical dictionary (definition). Retrieved on 10 December 2011
  3. ^ Buzard, J. (1993). The Beaten Track. European Tourism literature, and the Ways to 'Culture' 1800 - 1918. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "The Road to Travel: Purpose of Travel." University of Florida, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. (Compilation for History 3931/REL 3938 course.) Accessed July 2011.
  5. ^ "Motivations of Travel" (PDF). U.S. Travel Association.
  6. ^ Simonson, Lawrence R.; Koth, Barbara A.; Kreag, Glenn M. (1988). "So Your Community Wants Travel/Tourism? Guidelines for Attracting and Servicing Visitors". conservancy.edu. hdl:11299/178439. Retrieved 10 April 2018.
  7. ^ a b "Motivations for Travel Fact Sheet" (PDF). U.S. Travel Association. Retrieved 23 September 2023.
  8. ^ "Cultural Experiences". Worldpackers.
  9. ^ a b c d "A History Of Why People Travel". Matador Network.
  10. ^ "A Brief Visual History of Travel". Accessed May 2017.
  11. ^ Peters, F. E. (1994). The Hajj: The Muslim Pilgrimage to Mecca and the Holy Places. Princeton University Press. p. 164. ISBN 9780691026190.
  12. ^ "A brief history of travel: From elite hobby to mass tourism". Deutsche Welle. Retrieved 13 February 2018.
  13. ^ Beni, Shauna (July 29, 2019). "This Gen Zer Just Became the Youngest Person to Travel to Every Country: Alexis Alford—or Lexie Limitless, as she's known on Instagram—has set the record at just 21 years old". Conde Nast Traveler. Retrieved March 6, 2020. ... By age 12, Alexis Alford ... Alford, now 21, has accomplished her goal...
  14. ^ "Unrivaled Expedition Cruises". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  15. ^ "Book a small group tour with National Geographic Journeys and see more of the world for less". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  16. ^ "River Cruises from National Geographic - Book one of our new authentic River Cruises across Europe or Asia". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  17. ^ a b c d e f "Tips for Traveling Abroad." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  18. ^ "A Safe Trip Abroad." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  19. ^ a b c d "Road Safety Overseas." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  20. ^ The risks of travel Archived 2001-09-07 at the Wayback Machine
[edit]

 

 

Early tour bus in Salt Lake City, 1909
A colourful tour bus at Kuranda, Queensland, Australia
Tourists taking photos from a ParisCityVision open-topped tour bus in Paris.
Salvador Bahia Bus in Santo Antonio da Barra Lighthouse, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
The Needles "Breezer", Isle of Wight, England

A tour bus service is an escorted tour (sometimes a package holiday) or bus service that takes visitors sightseeing, with routes around tourist attractions.

Information

[edit]

Double-decker buses and open top buses are commonly used, for providing a good view. Large coaches are used internationally by tour operators, intercity bus lines and charters, for short and long distance destinations. These buses are larger than regular transit buses, with 2 to 4 axles (6 to 10 wheels).

The history of tour buses in North America began in the early 20th century, when trucks were converted to provide a means for sightseeing within large American cities.[1] Gray Line, the largest sightseeing operators, began operations in 1910.[2] Sightseeing was likely a side business for many intercity bus operators because the same types of buses were used (this remains true even today). World War II saw the industry decline, but it slowly re-emerged as an alternative to driving.[1]

Many musicians, entertainers, dancing crews and bands travel in sleeper buses, commonly referred to as "tour buses". While most if not all of the buses and coaches listed above are for commercial applications, there are many coaches manufactured for personal use as motorhomes. These bus based motorhomes are considered the top end of the RV market.

Common features

[edit]
  • Padded fabric or leather front-facing seats, often reclining.
  • Foot and arm rests.
  • TV monitors connected to DVD player or VCR to provide entertainment or possibly analog TV or DTV for local news or programs (possibly in seats with viewer choosing what station).
  • Basic lavatory – riders may be discouraged from using it except in an emergency,[3][failed verification] but some newer buses feature full service lavatories[4]
  • Cool water dispenser, refrigerator, hot water urn.
  • Wheelchair lift or ramp and "kneeling suspension" for easier access (especially for the elderly and infirm).
  • Tinted windows (and/or curtains or blinds).
  • Luggage compartment (or bins) below in the underbelly of the bus, with overhead hand-luggage racks.

Tour coach manufacturers

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Driven John Mack Kept on Truckin', Helping Build Modern America". Investors.com. Archived from the original on January 11, 2013. Retrieved March 28, 2011.
  2. ^ Risko, Karin (2018). A History Lover's Guide to Detroit. Arcadia Publishing. ISBN 978-1-4671-3567-2.
  3. ^ "Bus Toilets / Toilets of the World". toilet-guru.com. Retrieved May 22, 2011.
  4. ^ "New Prevost features to be showc". Prevost-stuff.com. December 22, 2006. Retrieved March 28, 2011.

 

 

Tours is located in Centre-Val de Loire
Tours
Tours
 
Tours
Medieval buildings on Place Plumereau
Pont Wilson over the Loire
Prébendes d'Oé garden
Flag of Tours
Coat of arms of Tours
Location of Tours
Map
Tours is located in France
Tours
Tours
 

Coordinates: 47°23′37″N 0°41′21″E / 47.393611°N 0.689167°E / 47.393611; 0.689167CountryFranceRegionCentre-Val de LoireDepartmentIndre-et-LoireArrondissementToursCantonTours-1
Tours-2
Tours-3
Tours-4
IntercommunalityTours Métropole Val de LoireGovernment

 

 • Mayor (2020–2026) Emmanuel Denis[1] (The Greens)

Area
1

34.7 km2 (13.4 sq mi) • Urban

 (2018)

684.9 km2 (264.4 sq mi) • Metro

 (2018)

3,631.6 km2 (1,402.2 sq mi)Population

 (2022)[2]

138,668 • Rank26th in France • Density4,000/km2 (10,000/sq mi) • Urban

 (2018)

359,992 • Urban density530/km2 (1,400/sq mi) • Metro

 (2018)

516,973 • Metro density140/km2 (370/sq mi)Demonym(s)Tourangeau (masculine)
Tourangelle (feminine)Time zoneUTC+01:00 (CET) • Summer (DST)UTC+02:00 (CEST)INSEE/Postal code

37261 /37000, 37100, 37200

Elevation44–119 m (144–390 ft)1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.

Tours (/tʊər/ TOOR; French: [tuʁ] ⓘ) is the largest city in the region of Centre-Val de Loire, France. It is the prefecture of the department of Indre-et-Loire. The commune of Tours had 136,463 inhabitants as of 2018 while the population of the whole metropolitan area was 516,973.[3]

Tours sits on the lower reaches of the Loire, between Orléans and the Atlantic coast. Formerly named Caesarodunum by its founder, Roman Emperor Augustus, it possesses one of the largest amphitheaters of the Roman Empire, the Tours Amphitheatre. Known for the Battle of Tours in 732 AD, it is a National Sanctuary with connections to the Merovingians and the Carolingians, with the Capetians making the kingdom's currency the Livre tournois. Saint Martin and Gregory of Tours were from Tours. Tours was once part of Touraine, a former province of France. Tours was the first city of the silk industry. It was taken by Louis XI, as the royal capital under the Valois Kings with its Loire castles and city of art with the School of Tours. The prefecture was partially destroyed during the French Wars of Religion in the late 16th century and again during the Second World War in June 1940.

The White and Blue city keeps a historical center registered in the UNESCO, and is home to the Vieux-Tours, a patrimonial site. The garden city has a green heritage and an urban landscape strongly influenced by its natural space. The historic city that is nicknamed "Le Petit Paris" and its region by its history and culture has always been a land of birth or host to many personalities, international sporting events, and is a university city with more than 30,000 students in 2019. Tours is a popular culinary city with specialties such as: rillettes, rillons, Touraine vineyards, AOC Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine cheeses and nougats. The city is also the end-point of the annual Paris–Tours cycle race.

Etymology

[edit]

A popular folk etymology of the word "Tours" is that it comes from Turonus, the nephew of Brutus. Turonus died in a war between Corineus and the king of Aquitaine, Goffarius Pictus, provoked by Corineus hunting in the king's forests without permission. It is said that Turonus was buried in Tours and the city is founded around his grave.[4]

History

[edit]

In Gallic times, Tours was an important crossing point over the Loire. It became part of the Roman Empire during the 1st century AD, and the city was named Caesarodunum ("hill of Caesar"). The name evolved in the 4th century when the original Gallic name, Turones, became Civitas Turonum and then Tours. It was at this time that the Tours Amphitheatre was built.

Tours became a metropolis in the Roman province of Lugdunum towards 380–388 AD, dominating Maine, Brittany, and the Loire Valley. One important figure in the city was Saint Martin of Tours, a bishop who shared his coat with a naked beggar in Amiens. The importance of Martin in the medieval Christian West made Tours, and its position on the route of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, a major centre during the Middle Ages.

Middle Ages

[edit]

In the 6th century, Gregory of Tours, author of the Ten Books of History, restored a cathedral destroyed by a fire in 561. Saint Martin's monastery benefited from its inception, at the very start of the 6th century from patronage and support from the Frankish king, Clovis I, which increased considerably the influence of the saint, the abbey and the city in Gaul. In the 9th century, Tours was at the heart of the Carolingian Renaissance, in particular because of Alcuin, of York in Northumbria, a renowned book collector and an abbot of Marmoutier Abbey.

In 732, Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi and an army of Muslim horsemen from Al-Andalus advanced 500 kilometres (300 miles) deep into France, and were stopped at Moussais-la-Bataille[5] (between Châtellerault and Poitiers) by Charles Martel and his infantry. This ignited the Battle of Tours. The Muslim army was defeated, preventing an Islamic conquest of France.

In 845, Tours repelled the first attack of the Viking chief Haesten. In 850, the Vikings settled at the mouths of the Seine and the Loire. Still led by Haesten, they went up the Loire again in 852 and sacked Angers, Tours and Marmoutier Abbey.

During the Middle Ages, Tours consisted of two juxtaposed and competing centres. The "City" in the east, successor of the late Roman 'castrum', was composed of the cathedral and palace of the archbishops as well as the castle of Tours. The castle of Tours acted as a seat of the authority of the Counts of Tours (later Counts of Anjou) and the King of France. In the west, the "new city" structured around the Abbey of Saint Martin was freed from the control of the city during the 10th century (an enclosure was built towards 918) and became "Châteauneuf". This space, organized between Saint Martin and the Loire, became the economic centre of Tours. Between these two centres were Varennes, vineyards and fields, little occupied except for the Abbaye Saint-Julien established on the banks of the Loire. The two centres were linked during the 14th century.

Place Plumereau, Medieval buildings

Tours became the capital of the county of Tours or Touraine, a territory bitterly disputed between the counts of Blois and Anjou – the latter were victorious in the 11th century. It was the capital of France at the time of Louis XI, who had settled in the castle of Montils (today the castle of Plessis-les-Tours, at the junction of the Loire and the Indre rivers). Tours and Touraine remained a permanent residence of the kings and court until the 16th century. The Renaissance gave Tours and Touraine many private mansions and castles, joined to some extent under the generic name of the Châteaux of the Loire. It is also at the time of Louis XI that the silk industry was introduced – despite difficulties, the industry still survives to this day.

16th–18th centuries

[edit]

Charles IX passed through the city at the time of his royal tour of France between 1564 and 1566, accompanied by the Court and various noblemen: his brother the Duke of Anjou, Henri de Navarre, the cardinals of Bourbon and Lorraine. At this time, the Catholics returned to power in Angers: the attendant assumed the right to nominate the aldermen. The Massacre of Saint-Barthelemy was not repeated at Tours. The Protestants were imprisoned by the aldermen – a measure which prevented their extermination. The permanent return of the Court to Paris and then Versailles marked the beginning of a slow but permanent decline. Guillaume the Metayer (1763–1798), known as Rochambeau, the well-known counter-revolutionary chief of Mayenne, was shot in Tours.

19th to 20th centuries

[edit]

The arrival of the railway in the 19th century saved the city by making it an important nodal point. The main railway station is known as Tours-Saint-Pierre-des-Corps. At that time, Tours was expanding towards the south into a district known as the Prébendes. The importance of the city as a centre of communications contributed to its revival and, as the 20th century progressed, Tours became a dynamic conurbation, economically oriented towards the service sector.

First World War

[edit]
Tours Cathedral: 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic west front with Renaissance pinnacles, completed 1547.

The city was greatly affected by the First World War. A force of 25,000 American soldiers arrived in 1917, setting up textile factories for the manufacture of uniforms, repair shops for military equipment, munitions dumps, an army post office and an American military hospital at Augustins. Because of this, Tours became a garrison town with a resident general staff. The American presence is remembered today by the Woodrow Wilson Bridge over the Loire, which was officially opened in July 1918 and bears the name of the President of the United States from 1913 to 1921. Three American air force squadrons, including the 492nd, were based at the Parçay-Meslay airfield, their personnel playing an active part in the life of the city. Americans paraded at funerals and award ceremonies for the Croix de Guerre. They also took part in festivals and their YMCA organised shows for the troops. Some men married women from Tours.

Inter-war years

[edit]

In 1920, the city hosted the Congress of Tours, which saw the creation of the French Communist Party. One future consequence of that congress was the presence of Ho Chi Minh, the Vietnamese nationalist, who became one of the first members of the party.

Second World War

[edit]

Tours was also marked by the Second World War, as the city suffered massive destruction in 1940. For four years it was a city of military camps and fortifications. From 10 to 13 June 1940, Tours was the temporary seat of the French government before its move to Bordeaux.

German incendiary bombs caused a huge fire, which blazed out of control from 20 to 22 June and destroyed part of the city centre. Some architectural masterpieces of the 16th and 17th centuries were lost, as was the monumental entry to the city. The Wilson Bridge, which carried a water main that supplied the city, was dynamited to slow the progress of the German advance. With the water main severed, nobody could extinguish the inferno. That made inhabitants have no option but to flee to safety. More heavy air raids by Allied forces devastated the area around the railway station in 1944, causing several hundred deaths.

Post-war developments

[edit]

A plan for the rebuilding of the central area drawn up by the local architect Camille Lefèvre had been adopted even before the end of the war. The plan was for 20 small quadrangular blocks of housing to be arranged around the main road (la rue Nationale), which was widened. This regular layout attempted to echo but simplify the 18th-century architecture. Pierre Patout succeeded Lefèvre as the architect in charge of rebuilding in 1945. At one time, there was talk of demolishing the southern side of the rue Nationale to make it in keeping with the new development.

The recent history of Tours is marked by the personality of Jean Royer, who was mayor for 36 years and helped save the old town from demolition by establishing one of the first Conservation Areas. This example of conservation policy would later inspire the Malraux Law for the safeguarding of historic city centres. In the 1970s, Jean Royer also extended the city to the south by diverting the course of the Cher River to create the districts of Rives du Cher and des Fontaines. At the time, it was one of the largest urban developments in Europe. In 1970, the François Rabelais University was founded and centred on the bank of the Loire in the downtown area, not, as was the current practice, in a campus in the suburbs. The latter solution was also chosen by the twin university of Orleans. Royer's long term as mayor was, however, not without controversy, as is exemplified by the construction of the practical but aesthetically unattractive motorway, which runs along the bed of a former canal just 1,500 metres (4,900 feet) from the cathedral. Another bone of contention was the original Vinci Congress Centre by Jean Nouvel. The project incurred debts although it at least made Tours one of France's principal conference centres.

Jean Germain, a member of the Socialist Party, became mayor in 1995 and made debt reduction his priority. Ten years later, his economic management was regarded as much wiser than that of his predecessor because of the financial stability of the city returning. However, his achievements were criticised by the municipal opposition for a lack of ambition. There were no large building projects instituted under his two terms. That position is disputed by those in power, who affirm their policy of concentrating on the quality of life, as evidenced by urban restoration, the development of public transport and cultural activities.

Climate

[edit]

Tours has an oceanic climate that is very mild for such a northern latitude. Summers are influenced by its inland position, resulting in frequent days of 25 °C (77 °F) or warmer, whereas winters are kept mild by Atlantic air masses. The entire valley between Orlans and Angers is famous for the luminosity of its air and for its fabulous châteaux, most of them Renaissance (over 600 between Orlans and Angers).

Climate data for Tours (1991–2020 averages)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 16.9
(62.4)
22.1
(71.8)
25.3
(77.5)
29.2
(84.6)
31.8
(89.2)
39.1
(102.4)
40.8
(105.4)
39.8
(103.6)
35.5
(95.9)
31.1
(88.0)
22.3
(72.1)
18.5
(65.3)
40.8
(105.4)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7.7
(45.9)
9.0
(48.2)
12.9
(55.2)
16.0
(60.8)
19.6
(67.3)
23.4
(74.1)
25.9
(78.6)
26.0
(78.8)
22.1
(71.8)
17.0
(62.6)
11.4
(52.5)
8.1
(46.6)
16.6
(61.9)
Daily mean °C (°F) 5.1
(41.2)
5.6
(42.1)
8.6
(47.5)
11.0
(51.8)
14.5
(58.1)
18.0
(64.4)
20.2
(68.4)
20.2
(68.4)
16.8
(62.2)
13.0
(55.4)
8.3
(46.9)
5.5
(41.9)
12.2
(54.0)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 2.5
(36.5)
2.3
(36.1)
4.3
(39.7)
6.0
(42.8)
9.4
(48.9)
12.6
(54.7)
14.4
(57.9)
14.3
(57.7)
11.4
(52.5)
9.0
(48.2)
5.3
(41.5)
2.9
(37.2)
7.9
(46.2)
Record low °C (°F) −17.4
(0.7)
−14.2
(6.4)
−10.3
(13.5)
−3.4
(25.9)
−0.6
(30.9)
2.6
(36.7)
4.3
(39.7)
4.8
(40.6)
0.9
(33.6)
−2.3
(27.9)
−7.1
(19.2)
−18.5
(−1.3)
−18.5
(−1.3)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 63.0
(2.48)
52.4
(2.06)
48.7
(1.92)
53.0
(2.09)
57.7
(2.27)
53.2
(2.09)
46.6
(1.83)
44.0
(1.73)
51.8
(2.04)
66.0
(2.60)
69.3
(2.73)
72.1
(2.84)
677.8
(26.69)
Average precipitation days 11.0 9.8 9.3 8.9 9.0 7.6 6.7 6.6 7.5 9.8 11.4 11.5 109.0
Average snowy days 2.4 2.9 1.8 0.7 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 1.7 10.6
Average relative humidity (%) 87 84 79 74 77 75 72 73 77 84 87 89 79.8
Mean monthly sunshine hours 68.4 95.2 148.8 187.3 214.2 228.5 247.1 237.7 191.3 122.9 78.9 64.6 1,884.8
Source 1: Météo France[6][7]
Source 2: Infoclimat.fr (humidity and snowy days, 1961–1990)[8]

Sights

[edit]
Hôtel de Ville, Place Jean Jaurès
St Gatien Cathedral, from Rue Lavoisier, just north of the Rue Colbert intersection.
Pont Wilson

Cathedral

[edit]

The Cathedral of Tours, dedicated to Saint Gatien, its canonized first bishop, was begun about 1170 to replace the cathedral that was burnt out in 1166 during the dispute between Louis VII of France and Henry II of England. The lowermost stages of the western towers belong to the 12th century, but the rest of the west end is in the profusely detailed 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic, which were completed just as the Renaissance was affecting the patrons who planned the châteaux of Touraine. The towers were being constructed at the same time as, for example, the Château de Chenonceau.

When the 15th-century illuminator Jean Fouquet was set the task of illuminating Josephus's Jewish Antiquities, his depiction of Solomon's Temple was modelled on the nearly complete cathedral of Tours. The atmosphere of the Gothic cathedral close permeates Honoré de Balzac's dark short novel of jealousy and provincial intrigues, Le Curé de Tours (The Curate of Tours) and his medieval story Maître Cornélius opens in the cathedral itself.

Other points of interest

[edit]

Language

[edit]

Before the French Revolution, the inhabitants of Tours (Les Tourangeaux) were known for speaking the "purest" form of French in the entire country.[9] The pronunciation of Touraine was traditionally regarded as the most standard pronunciation of the French language, until the 19th century when the standard pronunciation of French shifted to that of the Parisian bourgeoisie.[10] That is explained by the fact that the court of France lived in Touraine between 1430 and 1530. French, the language of the court, had become the official language of the entire kingdom.

A Council of Tours in 813 decided that priests should preach sermons in different languages because the common people could no longer understand classical Latin. This was the first official recognition of an early French language distinct from Latin, and can be considered as the birth of French.

The Ordinance of Montils-lès-Tours, promulgated by Charles VII in 1454, made it mandatory to write laws and oral customs in the native language of the area.

An ordinance of Charles VIII (born in Amboise, near Tours) in 1490 and one of Louis XII (born in Blois, near Tours) in 1510 broaden the scope of the ordinance of Charles VII.

Finally, the Ordinance of Villers-Cotterêts, signed into law by Francis I in 1539, called for the use of French in all legal acts, notarized contracts and official legislation to avoid any linguistic confusion.

Gregory of Tours wrote in the 6th century that some people in the area could still speak Gaulish.

City

[edit]
Pont Wilson crosses the river Loire at the old civic core

The city has a population of 140,000 and is called "Le Jardin de la France" ("The Garden of France"). There are several parks located within the city. Tours is located between two rivers, the Loire to the north and the Cher to the south. The buildings of Tours are white with blue slate (called Ardoise) roofs; this style is common in the north of France, while most buildings in the south of France have terracotta roofs.

Tours is famous for its original medieval district, called le Vieux Tours. Unique to the Old City are its preserved half-timbered buildings and la Place Plumereau, a square with busy pubs and restaurants, whose open-air tables fill the centre of the square. The Boulevard Beranger crosses the Rue Nationale at the Place Jean-Jaures and is the location of weekly markets and fairs.

Tours is famous for its many bridges crossing the river Loire. One of them, Wilson Bridge, collapsed in 1978 but was rebuilt.

In the garden of the ancient Palais des Archevêques (now Musée des Beaux-Arts) is a huge cedar tree said to have been planted by Napoleon.[11] The garden also has a stuffed elephant named Fritz. He escaped from the Barnum and Bailey circus during their stay in Tours in 1902. He went mad and had to be shot down, but the city paid to honor him, and he was taxidermied as a result.

Tours is home to University of Tours (formerly known as University François Rabelais of Tours), the site of one of the most important choral competitions, called Florilège Vocal de Tours International Choir Competition, and is a member city of the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing.

Population

[edit]

The population data in the table and graph below refer to the commune of Tours proper, in its geography at the given years. The commune of Tours absorbed the former commune of Saint-Étienne in 1845 and Sainte-Radegonde-en-Touraine and Saint-Symphorien in 1964.[12]

Historical population
Year Pop. ±% p.a.
1793 21,000 —    
1800 20,240 −0.53%
1806 21,703 +1.17%
1821 21,928 +0.07%
1831 23,235 +0.58%
1836 26,669 +2.80%
1841 30,072 +2.43%
1846 30,766 +0.46%
1851 33,530 +1.74%
1856 38,055 +2.56%
1861 41,061 +1.53%
1866 42,450 +0.67%
1872 43,368 +0.36%
1876 48,325 +2.74%
1881 52,209 +1.56%
1886 59,585 +2.68%
1891 60,335 +0.25%
1896 63,267 +0.95%
Year Pop. ±% p.a.
1901 64,695 +0.45%
1906 67,601 +0.88%
1911 73,398 +1.66%
1921 75,096 +0.23%
1926 77,192 +0.55%
1931 78,585 +0.36%
1936 83,753 +1.28%
1946 80,044 −0.45%
1954 83,618 +0.55%
1962 92,944 +1.33%
1968 128,120 +5.50%
1975 140,686 +1.35%
1982 132,209 −0.88%
1990 129,509 −0.26%
1999 132,820 +0.28%
2007 136,578 +0.35%
2012 134,978 −0.24%
2017 135,787 +0.12%
 
Source: EHESS[12] and INSEE (1968–2017)[13]

Transportation

[edit]
Tram model, design by the French agency RCP Design Global

Today, with extensive rail (including TGV) and autoroute connections linking to the rest of the country, Tours is a jumping-off point for tourist visits to the Loire Valley and the royal châteaux.

Tours is on one of the main lines of the TGV. It is possible to travel to the west coast of Bordeaux in an hour and forty minutes. From there, the line follows the Mediterranean coast via Avignon, and then to Spain and Barcelona. There are also lines to Lyon, Strasbourg and Lille. It takes less than one hour by train to get from Tours to Paris by TGV and one and a half hours to get to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Tours has two main stations: Gare de Tours, the central station, and Gare de Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, used by trains that do not terminate in Tours.

Tours Loire Valley Airport connects the Loire Valley to European cities.

Historically, Tours was served by trams and trolleybuses, the trolleybus system lasting from 1949 to 1968. Tram service returned to the city in 2013, when a new tram system began operation. Twenty-one Alstom Citadis trams were ordered.[14]

There is also a bus service, the main central stop being Jean Jaurès, next to the Hôtel de Ville, and rue Nationale, the high street of Tours. The tram and bus networks are operated by Fil Bleu and they share a ticketing system. A second tram line is scheduled for 2025.[15]

Sport

[edit]

The city's football team, Tours FC, currently play in Championnat National 3, the fifth level of French football. They also have a second team, CCSP Tours. CCSP's home stadium is the Stade des Tourettes and they play in the Division d'Honneur Regionale de Centre, the seventh tier of the French football league system.[citation needed]

Tours has served as the finish location for Paris–Tours, a one-day road cycling classic race held almost every October since 1896.[16]

Tours also has a volleyball club named the Tours VB.

Catholics from Tours

[edit]
Venerable Leo Dupont, Holy Man of Tours

Tours is a special place for Catholics who follow the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus and the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. In 1843, Sister Marie of St Peter of Tours reported a vision which started the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus, in reparation for the many insults Christ suffered in His Passion. The Golden Arrow Prayer was first made public by her.

The Venerable Leo Dupont also known as The Holy Man of Tours lived in Tours at about the same time. In 1849 he started the nightly adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, which spread throughout France. Upon hearing of Sister Marie of St Peter's reported visions, he started to burn a vigil lamp continuously before a picture of the Holy Face of Jesus. The devotion was eventually approved by Pope Pius XII in 1958 and he formally declared the Feast of the Holy Face of Jesus as Shrove Tuesday (the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday) for all Roman Catholics.[17] The Oratory of the Holy Face on Rue St. Etienne in Tours receives many pilgrims every year.

Tours was the site of the episcopal activity of St. Martin of Tours and has further Christian connotations in that the pivotal Battle of Tours in 732 is often considered the first decisive victory over the invading Islamic forces, turning the tide against them. The battle also helped lay the foundations of the Carolingian Empire.[18]

Notable people

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Louise de la Vallière, 17th.C
General Régis de Trobriand, 1865

Public service

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Arts

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Jean Fouquet self portrait, ca.1450
Philippe Néricault Destouches, 1741
statue of Honoré de Balzac

Science and business

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Gabriel Lamé

Sport

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Pascal Hervé, 2000

Twin towns — sister cities

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Tours is twinned with:[28]

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Répertoire national des élus: les maires" (in French). data.gouv.fr, Plateforme ouverte des données publiques françaises. 13 September 2022.
  2. ^ "Populations de référence 2022" (in French). The National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies. 19 December 2024.
  3. ^ "Comparateur de territoire". INSEE. Retrieved 16 June 2022.
  4. ^ Historia Brittonum 7, 10–11
  5. ^ The Andalusian History, from the Islamic conquest till the fall of Granada 92–897 A.H. (711–1492 C.E.), by Professor AbdurRahman Ali El-Hajji, a professor of the Islamic history at Baghdad University, published in Dar Al-Qalam, in Damascus, and in Beirut. "Second Edition". p. 194
  6. ^ "Données climatiques de la station de Tours" (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
  7. ^ "TOURS (37)" (PDF). Fiche Climatologique: Statistiques 1991–2020 et records (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
  8. ^ "Normes et records 1961–1990: Tours – St Symphorien (37) – altitude 112m" (in French). Infoclimat. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
  9. ^ "Tours, France". Meet Minneapolis. 2012. Archived from the original on 22 July 2012. Retrieved 3 August 2012.
  10. ^ de Montvalon, Jean-Baptiste. "Philippe Boula de Mareüil : « Les accents participent à la richesse de notre langue". Le Monde (in French). Paris. Retrieved 19 July 2015.
  11. ^ "City summary: Tours". us.media.france.fr.
  12. ^ a b Des villages de Cassini aux communes d'aujourd'hui: Commune data sheet Tours, EHESS (in French).
  13. ^ Population en historique depuis 1968, INSEE
  14. ^ "Tours selects Citadis and APS". Railway Gazette International. London. 14 September 2010. Retrieved 15 September 2010.
  15. ^ "Tramway de Tours – Le Tram de Tours". letramdetours.net.
  16. ^ "City tourism: Tours". Paris–Tours. Amaury Sport Organisation. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  17. ^ Dorothy Scallan. "The Holy Man of Tours." (1990) ISBN 0-89555-390-2
  18. ^ Davis, Paul K. (1999) "100 Decisive Battles From Ancient Times to the Present" ISBN 0-19-514366-3
  19. ^ "Berengarius" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 768–769.
  20. ^ "La Vallière, Louise Françoise de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 16 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 290–291.
  21. ^ "Viollet, Paul Marie" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 28 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 107.
  22. ^ "Foucquet, Jean" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 10 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 737.
  23. ^ Williamson, George Charles (1911). "Clouet, François" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 6 (11th ed.). pp. 559–560.
  24. ^ "Destouches, Philippe" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 104.
  25. ^ "Dutens, Louis" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 736.
  26. ^ "Bouilly, Jean Nicolas" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 4 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 318.
  27. ^ Saintsbury, George (1911). "Balzac, Honoré de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). pp. 298–301.
  28. ^ "Jumelages et partenariats". tours.fr (in French). Tours. Retrieved 16 November 2019.

Further reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

You're wondering about age restrictions for Star Sightseeing's tours. There aren't strict age limits, but they recommend checking specific tour details as some experiences may have minimum age requirements for safety or content reasons.

Yes, there are age restrictions for children and senior participants on the tour. You'll need to check specific requirements, as they vary to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment during the adventure.

Star Sightseeing caters to your dietary needs by offering customized meal options. Just inform them of your preferences or restrictions in advance, and they'll ensure your dining experience complements your luxurious tour perfectly.