FRANCE
Mahjong in Burgundy with Saint Mahj
October 17 - 22, 2027
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Dijon, Burgundy
France
Join us along with Kelly Walker of New Orlean’s Saint Mahj, in Dijon, Burgundy for a five-day escapade through this gastronomic capital where culinary excellence meets cultural richness.
This trip is designed to be an immersive experience blending region's love of food and wine with the enchanting beauty of Burgundy, a promising feast for the palate and soul which will, of course, involve a lot of play!
✦ Enjoy a guided tour with a local Dijonnaise guide
✦ Visit the world-class ‘Cité de la Gastronomie & du Vin’ food market
Highlights
✦ Taste the region of Burgundy’s premiere wines
✦ Explore the beautiful nearby village of Beaune on a day trip
The Experience
Savoring Dijon and Burgundy:
A Journey Through Mustard, Wine, and Culinary Heritage
Dijon and the larger region of Burgundy are made to taste. With their gastronomic history of mustard-making, as well as being the home to some of the world's best wine... we are going to sample and enjoy it all!
Savoring Dijon
Dijon, the heart of Burgundy, invites you to indulge in a culinary journey like no other. Renowned for its rich gastronomic heritage, the region offers a delightful fusion of robust flavors and refined techniques. From the sharp tang of its famous mustard to the delicate complexity of world-class wines, every bite tells a story of tradition and passion.
Daytrip to Beaune
We'll journey through the picturesque town of Beaune, exploring its historic streets and renowned wine cellars. Visit the stunning Hôtel-Dieu, a former hospital with a striking tiled roof, and immerse yourself in the region’s winemaking heritage at local vineyards.
Art & Architecture
We’ll immerse ourselves in in Dijon’s rich art and architecture, where Gothic spires, Renaissance mansions, and medieval half-timbered houses line charming streets. Visit the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, now home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, showcasing masterpieces from ancient to modern times.
Kelly Walker, Founder of Saint Mahj
A brief bio
Kelly Walker is an architectural designer with a passion for creating spaces that bring people together. Throughout her career, she has focused on experiential design- crafting environments that foster connection, encourage conversation, and leave a lasting impression. That same philosophy naturally evolved beyond architecture and into curating thoughtfully designed gatherings centered around community.
As the founder of Saint Mahj, Kelly has built a vibrant mahjong community in New Orleans, transforming game nights into beautifully curated social experiences. Her events blend hospitality, design, and tradition, creating welcoming spaces where strangers become friends over a shared table.
For Kelly, mahjong is more than a game- it's a catalyst for meaningful connection. She is thrilled to bring that spirit to the heart of Burgundy, where timeless design, exceptional food and wine, and the joy of gathering come together for an unforgettable week in Dijon.
The Accommodation
Stay in Style:
Dijon’s Premier Designer Boutique Hotel
We'll stay in central Dijon at its premier, designer boutique hotel. Located in the heart of the city, it's part hotel, part bar and even has a karaoke room, should you be so inclined.
Modern Comforts
Newly renovated, modern facilities blends beautifully with the surrounding, neighbouring buildings creating a comfortable, beautiful stay.
Restaurant, Terrace & Bar
The hotel boasts a beautifully decorated restaurant, terrace and bar. Three options to choose from...including a karaoke room.
Plush Rooms
The rooms are comfortable and modern, with all the amenities. Some have views of the cathedral in the square.
“Life is like Mahjong. We can't control what tiles we get, but we can control how skillfully we play the game”
— Anonymous
Inclusions
Prices are per person and include:
Shared rooms starting at
£4400 per person
FAQs
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Most international flights arriving from the US will most likely go through Paris. It might be worth looking at flights through London or other European airport hubs as there are more options for European connections. From Paris, you’ll take a train.
Trainline is a helpful website that gives travel options and even allows you to book online.
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Yes, absolutely. Write to us at duende@duenderetreats.com and we'll help with a bespoke itinerary suited to exactly what you're looking for.
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All are welcome! It's an itinerary that would be enjoyable for anyone who likes to eat, laugh, walk, wine taste, explore and play mahjong. (Children or anyone under 21 years of age not permitted.)
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Yes. Once the trip is confirmed, you’ll automatically be added to a monthly payment plan with the final payment due 100 days prior to the start date of the trip. You can also opt out of the payment plan and pay in full 100 days prior to the trip start date.
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Deposits are nonrefundable unless there's a waiting list and someone would like to take your spot. In the case we are able to sell your spot, you will be refunded your deposit, less £100 admin / transaction fees.
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The full itinerary will be sent to you about a month prior to departure. If you have specific questions regarding the excursions, please do reach out to us.
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Taxis are easy to come by readily available from the train station. (Uber may not be reliable in smaller towns.) The hotel is less than a ten minute taxi ride.
More info on the Dijon Train Station
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Dijon is a beautiful medieval town, and exploring it on foot is part of the experience. While our accommodation is located along the main pedestrian street, which is relatively flat, much of the city is pedestrian only so you will need to be prepared to walk.
Private transportation will be provided for all scheduled day trips outside of Dijon. However, participants should expect several hours of walking throughout the week, often on uneven cobblestones and hilly terrain. For this reason, we recommend that guests are in good health, comfortable walking daily, and able to navigate inclines with ease.
