Tours is ideally situated in the heart of the Loire Valley surrounded by breath-taking chateaux, royal gardens and renowned vineyards, and remains one of the most famous cultural, artistic and gastronomic centers in France. The early history of Tours dates back to the Gallo-Roman times (1st Century AD) and traces of the first French renaissance are still visible today. The city's history, combined with an energetic restoration, policy have left Tours with a remarkably rich heritage. In the old city, the Place Plumereau is famous for its 15th and 16th century timber-framed houses overlooking a big open square where you will find several outdoor cafés and restaurants. For trips outside Tours, regional buses offer daily excursions to all the tourist attractions of the area, and the TGV trains will take you into Paris in about one hour.

The program is open to adult students from around the world and includes 20-24 hours of instruction per week. Classes are held in an historic mansion near the old city, just a few blocks from the center of town. The faculty is made up of native French professors experienced in teaching French as a Foreign Language. All classes are taught in French. Class size varies from 8-12 participants. Groups are set up by levels (Beginner to Advanced), determined by proficiency tests given the first day of each session. The institute is equipped with a resource library and mediatech, an audio/video laboratory, a theater/auditorium, a computer lab, and snack machines. Internet access is available to all students at the school's computer center two blocks away. A monthly schedule of afternoon activities and supplemental classes is provided by the institute at final registration in France. Additional services are available through the Office du Tourisme in town.

Note: Additional sessions will be held in November and December. Contact FAE for details. Three-week courses are possible for any of the above 4-week sessions provided the course begins on the listed starting date. F.A.E. also offers intensive Language Learning Vacations throughout the year in Aix, Bordeaux,Nice, Montpellier and Paris. One-week programs may be arranged at any of the other locations on specific dates.

::No classes will be held on the following dates and national holidays: March 24; May 1, & 8; July 14; August 15; and November 11.

> Go to the registration form

Note: We require 3-5 weeks to complete your registration so be sure to return your Registration Form as soon as you have set your travel dates. Health insurance is available through the institute at an additional $85 per month if needed.

Available housing includes your choice of a private room with shared bath in the home of a local resident (with daily breakfast or daily breakfast and dinner meal plans), a hotel with continental breakfast, or a fully furnished apartment [two-star apartments are privately owned and vary in comfort level]. Accommodations may be arranged for more than one person. Linens and bath towels are provided with all options. Please indicate your housing preference on your Registration Form and specify if it is for more than one person.

Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary with fluctuating exchange rates.

A monthly schedule of activities and excursions is arranged by the institute and may require an extra fee. Program participants sign up for the activities of their choice once in France. Ask for a complete list of options at final registration. In addition to the excursions organized by the institute, the Office de Tourisme offers a wide variety of guided tours and events. Activities range from a walking tour of the old city, a tour of St Gatien's Cathedral, or a visit to the Musée des Beaux Arts - to bus tours to one of the famous Loire Valley Chateaux or vineyards.

Visits to the homes of some of France's best known writers and poets can also be arranged. Regularly scheduled departures from the Gare Routière provide easy access to all of the many wonders that have made this region so popular. Wherever your passion lies, you will find just the right place in and around Tours to make your Learning Vacation an experience you will want to repeat!