Felt like royalty in France

I’ve learned a valuable lesson: don’t neglect the small ads in ITN.

The “Let’s Go to France” package from Drifter Sister (Boulder City, Nevada; 702/294-4365, www.driftersister.com) provided us a wonderful two weeks in a castle first mentioned in the 14th century: Château d’Agel in Narbonne.

The price was $2,900 per person, double occupancy, and included round-trip train tickets (Paris-Narbonne), the castle stay, a day trip to the Canal du Midi, most lunches, three rental autos and gas, etc. We prearranged within our group who would be the drivers.

Airfare was not included. My friend and I used Air France miles and spent a few extra days in Paris before meeting the others and taking the TGV to Narbonne.

In that comfortable, very old château — modernized with six baths and a new kitchen and with every chair and couch reupholstered — the 10 of us (nine women and one man) felt like royalty. While there, Oct. 3-16, 2009, we also had Internet access plus use of the laundry, the library and all the grounds.

Days were spent at castles, ruins and markets in the Cathar area of Languedoc-Roussillon, with even a day trip on the Midi Canal.

Our main three-course meal, most always at a predetermined restaurant, was at midday. Our evening meal was frequently at the castle, where we helped ourselves to wine, cheese, fruits and vegetables and desserts. One Sunday dinner, under olive trees at a farmhouse, took all afternoon and will not be forgotten.

It was a unique and wildly fun time for we princesses (and him).

NANCY HYDE

San Clemente, CA