The vessel is then floated to the top and maneuvered into the next canal. When you come to a village or city, you can literally walk right off the barge into town, where the barges often stop for a few hours or overnight. The hotel barges are mostly converted old supply vessels, although recently some have been purposely built to carry passengers. Public rooms are usually limited to a dining room, or dining area, and a main lounge. There will also be a generous amount of open deck space.
Some barges also offer larger suites.
Favorite pastimes are conversation, curling up with a good book, or sitting in a deck chair gazing at the passing scenery. At night there's more conversation, charades, Trivial Pursuit, or listening to CDs. If the sights are beyond walking distance, you'll be whisked away in a private van that will make you feel far superior to the big bus tours you'll pass on the road. The barges dock at night so you can explore the nightlife. Food is a major part of the experience, and most barges have excellent French-trained chefs.