Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Culinary Gallivants different from other travel companies?

Culinary Gallivants is a women-owned travel company offering exclusive, insider access to top chefs, winemakers, and artisans. Our small-group, high-touch experiences are designed for food and wine enthusiasts who crave deeper connections to a destination. With decades of expertise in travel and hospitality, we curate bespoke itineraries with behind-the-scenes moments you won’t find anywhere else. This isn’t just a trip—it’s an immersive, storytelling journey crafted by women who know the art of exceptional travel.

Right now, we focus on the places we live and know best—the Pacific Northwest and the South of France, where our deep connections allow us to offer truly insider experiences. As we grow, we’ll be adding more carefully curated destinations that align with our passion for exceptional food, wine, and immersive travel. Stay tuned for what’s next!

Absolutely! Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group, our experiences are designed to be welcoming and engaging for all. Many of our guests join on their own and leave with new friends and unforgettable memories. We offer private room options as well as opportunities to pair with a like-minded traveler if you’d prefer to share.

While we’ve successfully organized trips for larger groups, our sweet spot is 8–12 guests—intimate enough for exclusive experiences but lively enough to foster great connections. This size allows us to offer behind-the-scenes access, personalized attention, and seamless logistics, ensuring a truly special journey.

Since our experiences are designed around food, wine, and cultural immersion, our trips are best suited for adults only. This ensures that all guests can fully enjoy the exclusive dining experiences, in-depth wine tastings, and immersive local encounters that make our journeys so special.

Culinary Gallivants was founded by Michi Suzuki and Sarah Hargreaves, two longtime publicists and passionate food and wine enthusiasts.

  • Michi, born and raised in Seattle, has deep roots in the hospitality and PR industry, specializing in curating unforgettable culinary experiences across the Pacific Northwest.
  • Sarah, based in the South of France, has spent years uncovering the region’s best-kept food and wine secrets while crafting bespoke travel experiences.

With decades of experience planning press trips for top media and hosting exclusive culinary adventures, we launched Culinary Gallivants to share our insider knowledge and hidden gems with like-minded food, wine, and travel lovers.

Absolutely not! All you need is a curious mind and an adventurous palate—we’ll take care of the rest. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just love discovering new flavors, our trips are designed to be immersive, approachable, and, most of all, fun.

Pricing & Payment

Each itinerary has its own ‘What’s Included’ section, but generally:

  • Boutique accommodations
  • Most meals with exceptional local cuisine
  • All planned activities and excursions
  • Private in-country transportation
  • Expert local guides and hosts
  • Exclusive culinary experiences, wineries, and more

Not included:

  • Airfare to/from the destination
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses or additional optional activities
  • Any meals that are not described in the itinerary breakdown (usually time out meals)

We list prices in both US dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR) to accommodate our travelers from the US, Europe, and beyond. When booking, you can choose the currency that works best for you. Exchange rates may fluctuate, so we recommend checking with your bank or payment provider for the most current conversion rates.

No. A 50% deposit is required to reserve your spot. The remaining balance is due 60 days prior to departure. Flexible payment plans may be available—just ask!

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Final payment is due 60 days before your trip.

We understand that plans can change. Our standard policy is:

  • More than 60 days before departure: Your deposit is non-refundable, but any additional payments will be refunded.

Less than 60 days before departure: No refunds are available due to our commitments to local partners.
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. For full terms, please refer to your specific trip agreement.

If you need to reschedule, contact us as soon as possible. We’ll do our best to transfer your payment to a future departure or issue a travel credit, depending on timing and availability. Rebooking fees may apply. Flexibility is handled on a case-by-case basis.

We do not sell insurance directly, but we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical emergencies, and interruptions. If you’d like recommendations, we’re happy to point you toward reputable providers.

Booking & Accommodations

Trips close when they’re full or approximately 30 days before departure. Booking early is advised!

We’ll need your full name, contact info, dietary needs, and a 50% deposit to confirm your spot.

Minor changes may be possible if made early. Contact us directly for options.

Yes. Contact us if you’d like to update your payment method after booking.

Yes! Just mention your credit at the time of booking or email us, and we’ll apply it.

Accommodations are boutique-style, with options for solo or shared rooms. Room types vary by trip.

Yes. A single supplement fee applies.

Absolutely. We’ll pair you with a like-minded guest if you’re open to sharing.

In most cases, rooms are double occupancy. If you’re traveling as a trio, contact us to explore availability.

Let us know at booking, and we’ll ensure you’re roomed together.

This depends on the itinerary and hotel availability. Contact us to discuss what’s possible.

Travel Logistics

No. Travelers book their own airfare to allow for flexibility.

Yes. Group and private transfers are available. Info will be shared pre-departure.

Yes, with sufficient notice. Cancellation policies vary by provider.

We monitor arrivals and will adjust transfer timing where possible. Please keep us updated with any delays.

Visa requirements vary by nationality. U.S. and EU passport holders typically don’t need a visa for France. We’ll guide you based on your citizenship.

Details are provided before departure.

  • Seattle trips: Meet at the hotel or central meeting point on Day
  • Montpellier trips: Meet at a boutique hotel in the historic center.

Private transfers can be arranged.

  • Seattle (SEA): ~20–30 mins to downtown
  • Montpellier (MPL): ~15–20 mins to city center

Itineraries are thoughtfully planned but may adjust slightly for weather, local events, or spontaneous opportunities. Any changes will enhance—not disrupt—your experience.

Yes! We include time for personal discovery and rest each day.

  • Seattle: 15–20% tipping is standard. Tipping your trip host is appreciated.
  • France: Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or small gestures are welcomed.
    Trip materials will include destination-specific guidance.

Food & Dietary Preferences

Yes! We accommodate most allergies and dietary preferences with advance notice.

Absolutely. Our partners in both Seattle and Montpellier offer excellent plant-based meals.

Of course! Non-alcoholic craft drinks, mocktails, and local alternatives are available throughout.

Physical Requirements

Trips include moderate walking, market visits, and optional outdoor experiences. Some uneven surfaces (e.g., cobblestones) are possible. Contact us for trip-specific concerns.

Yes. Kayak outings are leisurely, and land-based alternatives can be arranged if you prefer.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. For vineyard walks or light hikes, you’ll be informed in advance.

Packing & Essentials

You’ll receive a tailored packing list before your trip. Generally:

  • Seattle: Layers, rain jacket, walking shoes
  • Montpellier: Light clothing, sandals, a stylish outfit for dinners
  • Seattle: U.S. plugs (120V)
  • Montpellier: EU plugs (220V). Bring a Type C or E adapter, and possibly a voltage converter.

Yes. Our partner hotels offer hair dryers, toiletries, and other essentials.

Custom Travel & Private Groups

Yes, based on availability. Let us know and we’ll help coordinate.

Absolutely. We specialize in bespoke experiences for private groups, families, or retreats.

Yes. Seamless private transfers are available before or after the group trip.

Yes. Whether it’s a driver to wine country or a scenic train, we can assist with custom transfers.

Miscellaneous

Yes! All imagery reflects our actual destinations, accommodations, and experiences.

Subscribe to our Website or follow us on Instagram for early access to new journeys and seasonal specials.

Email us at [your email] or use the contact form on our website—we’d love to hear from you!