The Happy Guinea Pigs

We were chosen as the first group to explore the Loire Valley through UVU's study abroad program in France. The valley is an incredible little taste of French culture outside of Paris, and the culture has been richly endowed on the area.

The group visited a series of Chateaux, including Chateau d'Amboise, Chateau Chambord, Chateau Blois, Chateau Chenonceau, and Chateau Cheverny. All of the Chateaux revealed a vast array of history and architectural magnificence and each Chateau revealed behind it an incredible story. In my opinion it was a great experience witnessing all the glory of the kings and dukes of France, as well as their mistresses, and the areas that they commanded in.

I will concede that I preferred Chateau d'Amboise, with the overlook of the river, the maginificent view of the town of Amboise, which I greatly enjoyed and would live in if given the opportunity, and the connection to Leonard de Vinci.