Reviewed by Mark and Linda Watson
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If you have wanted to go to Normandy now is the time. Go Now! There are no crowds and France has an excellent Covid program in place. Mike@alliedvictorytours is an excellent tour guide.
This review has 2 parts describing the wonderful visit we had with Mike and Deborah van den Dobbelsteen.
The private guide through the American zone Normandy landings was excellent. Mike tailored the experience to match my interest in following the 29th Infantry Regiment from the landing on Omaha Beach through the bocage obstacles to St Lô. Also 4th Div at Utah Beach including 82nd and 101st landing sites and memorials. He was well informed about every significant and out of the way site and included narrative describing the actions and terrain we visited. This included specific German bunkers and 29th individual and company fighting locations on the ground. We visited many of the unit action memorials and associated churches. Mike provided a full service tour including a comfortable van. You will be very happy at the end of your visit to the American sectors when you choose Mike as your guide.
Part two is our stay at the vintage B&B operated by Mike and his wife Deborah. From the moment you are greeted by Deborah at the doorway you are invited into their world of life in WW2. You will not find more gracious hosts to provide for your comfort and food. My wife cannot say enough to describe the joy she felt in their remodeled stone farmhouse and out buildings including garden, museum and a dedicated memorial site. The bedrooms and bathrooms were appointed with modern features but the highlight was the decor dedicated to the soldiers who specifically fought around their property which borders on the famous Elle river crossing. Deborah tailored our wonderful breakfast and lunch to meet our schedule and dietary needs. The fresh eggs from a neighbor added a special treat. The B&B is located centrally between the beaches and St Lô. You will be as happy with a night or longer stay as we were in this lovely family B&B.
Regards - Mark & Linda Watson