Join Us in France Travel Podcast

In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with Abigail Carter, a writer and YouTube creator who made a huge life change. Abigail lost her husband in the 9/11 attacks. She raised her two young children in Seattle. Then the pandemic hit and forced her to rethink everything. She realized she wanted a new chapter. Listen to this episode ad-free Abigail began watching videos of people renovating châteaux in France. The idea stuck. She loves travel. She loves houses. She has renovation experience. So she came to France to look at properties. At first, it felt like a fun adventure. But then she walked into a large maison de maître near Agen. It had high ceilings, old windows, caves in a cliff, and a lot of charm. Abigail made an offer the very next day. It was accepted. She found herself the owner of a twelve-bedroom home in the French countryside. Annie and Abigail talk about how to buy a property in France. They discuss inspections, banking, moving money, and dealing with renovations. They also talk about the language challenge. Abigail uses apps, Zoom lessons, and practice in daily life to improve her French. Abigail now runs creative retreats at the château. People come to sketch, write, enjoy food and wine, and discover the countryside. She has already formed a growing community around this project. Annie and Abigail share tips for anyone dreaming of a similar move. They also highlight great places to visit around Agen, including Nérac, Lectoure, Pujols, and Monflanquin. This is a story about resilience, creativity, and starting over in France. It's an inspiring reminder that you can build a new life in a new place. Join Annie and Abigail for an uplifting conversation full of practical advice and beautiful French scenery. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:31] Today on the podcast [00:01:03] Podcast supporters [00:01:42] Magazine segment [00:02:24] Annie and Abigail Carter [00:03:06] A Life Altered by Tragedy [00:04:30] A New Beginning in France [00:06:35] The Chateau Hunt Begins [00:09:11] Purchasing the Chateau [00:12:50] Challenges and Renovations [00:16:23] Running Retreats at the Chateau [00:19:48] Exploring Agen and Surroundings [00:22:23] Advice for Aspiring Château Buyers [00:23:03] Knowing Your Requirements [00:24:27] Understanding Maison de Maître [00:26:31] Renovation Differences in France [00:27:05] Navigating French Stores [00:28:25] Learning French [00:31:49] Challenges in French Banking [00:34:08] Inspiration and Community Building [00:38:16] The Joys and Challenges of Video Content Creation [00:40:36] Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans [00:41:17] Thank You Patrons [00:42:48] VoiceMap Reviews [00:44:18] New Entry System into France EES [00:50:32] Smoking in France [00:53:40] Next week on the podcast [00:54:01] Copyright More episodes about moving to France

In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled "Sarah Bernhardt with Elyse Rivin," host Annie Sargent explores the fascinating life of France's most famous actress. Sarah Bernhardt wasn't just a performer — she was a global icon, an artist, and one of the most daring women of her time. Listen to this episode ad-free Born in Paris in 1844, Sarah rose from humble beginnings to dominate the French stage and the world's imagination. She acted at the Comédie-Française, starred in productions across Europe and America, and brought passion, emotion, and intensity to every role. Her talent was unmatched, her lifestyle eccentric, and her personality unforgettable. In this lively conversation, Elyse Rivin explains how Bernhardt became the first true international celebrity. They discuss her collaborations with Victor Hugo, her friendship with Alphonse Mucha, and her larger-than-life persona that helped define the Belle Époque in Paris. Annie and Elyse also explore where you can still trace Sarah Bernhardt's legacy today — at the Th��tre du Châtelet, the Petit Palais, or her tomb at Père Lachaise Cemetery. You'll hear how she inspired generations of artists and became a symbol of creativity, independence, and fearless ambition. In the magazine segment, Annie talks about tipping in France and the revival of bouillon restaurants, those classic Paris eateries known for affordable French comfort food and lively atmosphere. If you love French culture, theater, history, and travel, you'll enjoy this deep dive into the life of an extraordinary woman who helped make Paris the artistic heart of the world. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction to Sarah Bernhard [00:00:31] Today on the podcast [00:01:05] Podcast supporters [00:01:37] Bootcamp 2026 [00:02:29] Magazine part of the Podcast [00:03:02] Newsletter [00:04:36] Annie and Elyse about Sarah Bernhard [00:06:36] Early Life and Family Background [00:12:22] Education and Early Career [00:13:26] Joining the Conservatory of Dramatic Art [00:16:04] Her Only Child [00:17:19] Rise to Stardom [00:20:05] Sarah the Eccentric [00:21:32] Supporting Playwrights and Writers [00:23:31] The Eccentric Life of Sarah Bernhard [00:25:06] Defending Zola and Dreyfus [00:25:52] A Feminist and Advocate [00:26:45] Triumphant Tours in the United States [00:29:13] Adventures and Performances Abroad [00:29:49] Artistic Patronage and Personal Pursuits [00:30:26] A Legend on Stage and Screen [00:34:59] Remembering Sarah Bernhard [00:43:14] Thank you Patrons [00:45:30] VoiceMap Tour Review [00:47:21] Tipping in France [00:50:36] Bouillon Parisien [00:51:41] What is bouillon cuisine? [00:59:04] Next week on the podcast [00:59:26] Copyright More episodes about French Culture

Join Brian Revel, a Canadian transit worker and avid traveler, as he shares his fresh take on exploring modern Paris. Discover how the city has become cleaner and friendlier, with improved public transport and pedestrian zones. Brian discusses handy transit apps, the cultural shift making locals more approachable, and tips for dining at beloved spots like Bouillon Chartier. He also recounts a day trip to Strasbourg, revealing how Parisian life in 2025 balances sustainability with charm and accessibility.

In A Multi-Generational Christmas Adventure: France by Road and by Barge, host Annie Sargent chats with guest Heather Addison to talk about a unique family trip across France. Heather brought three generations together for the holidays, and the result was both memorable and inspiring. Listen to this episode ad-free They started with a road trip through France. Renting a van gave the family flexibility and comfort, especially with kids and grandparents along. Annie and Heather discuss the pros and cons of traveling this way, from navigating French roads to making quick stops in small towns. If you're planning a family road trip in France, you'll hear plenty of useful tips. The highlight of the journey was a barge cruise through Burgundy. Heather explains what it's like to live on the water, enjoy slow travel, and see French villages from a different perspective. Barge travel is not something most visitors consider, but it creates a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural discovery. Food, markets, and holiday traditions played a big part in their trip. Heather shares stories of family meals, favorite French dishes, and the joy of celebrating Christmas in France. You'll hear how French culture adds a special dimension to family gatherings. And also how some advanced planning is required. This conversation is full of insights for anyone planning a family adventure in France. Whether you're interested in barge cruises, Burgundy, Christmas traditions, or simply exploring France by road, you'll come away with practical ideas. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast. You'll get weekly conversations with travelers, guides, and locals who share their experiences and advice about exploring real France. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:16] Introduction [00:00:32] Today on the podcast [00:01:05] Podcast supporters [00:01:32] Boot Camp 2026 [00:02:15] Magazine segment [00:03:26] Annie and Heather [00:03:35] Family Trip Overview [00:05:38] Traveling with a Large Group [00:06:40] Navigating and Dining in France for Groups [00:09:12] Exploring Aix-en-Provence [00:10:52] Christmas in Aix-en-Provence: Plan Ahead! [00:14:47] New Year's Eve on a Barge Cruise (Péniche) [00:18:13] Pont du Gard Picnic [00:21:19] Seine River Dinner Cruise [00:23:51] Montmartre and Dog Parks [00:24:25] Details of the Four-Night Cruise [00:25:20] Exploring the Boat's Clever Design [00:26:18] Relaxing Journey and Small Distances [00:27:04] Delicious Food on the Boat [00:28:13] Docking in Beautiful Cities [00:30:03] Memorable Dining Experience in Paris [00:33:39] Galerie Dior: A Fashion Surprise [00:38:47] Vintage Shopping in Montmartre [00:40:53] Backstage Tour at Palais Garnier [00:45:13] A Night at Chateau de Pondres [00:47:16] Final Thoughts and Recommendations [00:48:03] Thank You Patrons [00:49:04] VoiceMap Review [00:50:45] Discount for Podcast Listeners [00:51:20] Podcast Episodes on Apple Podcast [00:54:57] The Ceremony to become French Citizen [00:56:03] Recent Day Trips [00:57:17] Getting Rear-Ended [01:00:12] Meeting Listeners in Person [01:01:43] Copyright More episodes about Christmas in France

Helena Fedorec, a solo traveler celebrating her 70th birthday, shares her insights from a budget-friendly month in France. She reveals how she skillfully navigated the country via trains and buses, detailing her itinerary filled with vibrant towns and cultural hotspots. Helena discusses the value of learning basic French, utilizing senior rail cards, and staying in hostels to save money. She emphasizes the joy of slow travel, multi-night stays, and the unforgettable connections made along the way, showcasing how accessible and enriching car-free exploration can be.

Exploring Saint-Lizier: Hidden Gem of the French Pyrenees In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent and co-host Elyse Rivin take you to the charming village of Saint-Lizier in the Ariège, nestled in the foothills of the French Pyrenees. Saint-Lizier is officially one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France" and offers visitors a rare combination of Roman heritage, medieval architecture, and Pyrenean landscapes. Annie and Elyse walk you through the highlights, from the ancient Roman walls that still encircle the village to the Cathedral of Saint-Lizier and its cloister, along with the impressive Notre-Dame-de-la-Sède Cathedral. Both sites feature remarkable Romanesque frescoes that speak to the town's religious importance in the Middle Ages. The episode also explores the Diocesan Museum, home to centuries of religious art, and the unforgettable apothecary, where shelves lined with jars and wooden cabinets transport you back to a time when medicine was practiced very differently. Beyond history, Annie and Elyse highlight the natural beauty of the Pyrenees, with its sweeping views, rolling hills, and opportunities for hiking and exploring nearby towns. If you're planning a trip to Occitanie or want to go beyond the well-trodden paths of Paris and Provence, this episode is your Saint-Lizier travel guide. You'll hear practical tips on how to get there, how much time to spend, and why this small town deserves a place on your French itinerary. 🎧 Listen today and let Annie and Elyse inspire your next adventure in France. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction [00:00:31] Today on the podcast [00:01:35] Boot Camp 2026 [00:04:36] Podcast supporters [00:05:08] Magazine segment [00:06:11] Location and Overview [00:08:03] Historical Significance [00:09:22] Things to Do in the Area [00:10:32] UNESCO World Heritage Site [00:10:53] Roman and Gallo-Roman Influence [00:15:21] Christianization and Bishops [00:18:17] Exploring the Village [00:19:25] The Lower Part of Saint-Lizier [00:24:57] The Upper Part of Saint-Lizier [00:26:39] The Museum and Gastronomy [00:29:34] Entering the Renaissance Cathedral [00:30:15] The Sibyls and Their Significance [00:32:14] The Art of Fresco Painting [00:37:43] The Psychiatric Hospital History [00:43:22] Saint-Lizier Festivals and Events [00:45:38] The Transhumance Festival [00:47:01] The Scandal of the Curéde Saint-Lizier [00:48:26] Exploring the Ariège Region [00:49:50] Thank You Patrons [00:50:39] Restricted Traffic Zones in Paris [00:54:34] Next week on the podcast [00:55:18] Copyright More episodes about visiting the southwest of France  

In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, Annie Sargent shares the Bootcamp 2025 Report with guests Janet Boyd, Beth Hall, Mary Piltch, and Jeanne Powanda. Together, they look back on a week in Toulouse and the southwest of France filled with language, history, food, and friendship. Listen to this episode ad-free Bootcamp isn't a packaged tour. It's a flexible way to explore France in the company of fellow Francophiles. Each person chooses what to do each day, but the group also gathers for shared adventures. That balance of independence and connection makes Bootcamp special. Janet, Beth, Mary, and Jeanne describe language classes at LangueOnze in Toulouse and share stories of excursions with Elyse Rivin. They talk about unforgettable visits to Albi, Carcassonne, Foix, Bruniquel, Pech Merle, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, and Cahors. They also mention smaller experiences like wine tastings, a canal ride, and museums such as the Toulouse Resistance Museum and the Musée Saint-Raymond. Not everything went smoothly. There were rainstorms, illness, and the occasional missed outing. But those hiccups became part of the story, a reminder that real travel is unpredictable. What matters most is the camaraderie, the discoveries, and the laughter along the way. Bootcamp 2025 shows what it feels like to experience France beyond the tourist trail. It's about castles and caves, local food, and the joy of connecting with people who share the same passion for French culture. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast to hear more stories like this one. Each week Annie Sargent brings you real France, from big cities to hidden villages, told by travelers and locals who know it best. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:31] Today's Episode [00:00:56] Bootcamp 2026 [00:01:29] Podcast supporters [00:02:02] Magazine segment [00:03:25] Janet Boyd [00:13:43] Beth Hall [00:23:55] Mary Piltch [00:34:15] Jeanne Powanda [00:44:46] Thank you Patrons [00:45:44] VoiceMaps Reviews [00:46:48] Political Situation in France [00:50:40] Montmartre Over-turism Tensions [00:54:58] Next Week on the Podcast [00:55:33] Copyright More episodes about the Occitanie area

Here's a 300-word iTunes/Podcast Apps summary for Episode 562: What happens when your carefully planned vacation in France takes an unexpected turn? In Unexpected France: History, Nature, and a Bit of Chaos, host Annie Sargent talks with traveler Gregg Furey about a journey filled with breathtaking discoveries, surprising challenges, and a few classic French travel mishaps. Listen to this episode ad-free Gregg's trip took him to places most visitors overlook. He explored the prehistoric caves of Arcy-sur-Cure, where ancient paintings connect today's traveler with humanity's earliest stories. He visited the soaring cathedrals of Laon and Bourges, each one a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. At the battlefield of Alésia, Gregg learned how Julius Caesar defeated Vercingetorix and how that moment still shapes French identity. And in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises, he reflected on the life of General Charles de Gaulle at the Croix de Lorraine memorial and museum. But not everything went according to plan. Gregg ended up in a hospital in Sarlat after unexpected health issues. Instead of panic, he found efficient doctors, affordable treatment, and an eye-opening look at how the French healthcare system really works. This detour disrupted his schedule but turned into one of the most memorable parts of the trip. This conversation is about more than just sightseeing. It's about handling the unpredictable. It's about staying flexible, finding humor when things go wrong, and discovering that mishaps often make the best stories. Annie and Gregg remind us that France is more than Paris and the Riviera. Smaller towns, Roman ruins, and quiet villages hold just as much magic. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast to hear more stories like this one. Learn how to plan smarter, travel deeper, and embrace the unexpected side of France. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:31] Today's Episode [00:01:02] Support the Podcast [00:01:33] Strikes and Political Difficulties in France [00:01:55] Air Quality in Paris, ETIAS and EES requirements [00:02:40] Gregg and Annie [00:02:52] Greg's Unique Travel Experiences [00:03:39] Exploring Small Towns Near Paris [00:05:04] Visiting Melun [00:06:46] Hospitalization in France [00:13:07] Medical "Deserts" [00:15:28] Discovering Laon [00:17:09] Disque de Stationnement [00:22:49] Exploring Vézelay and Nearby Caves [00:23:04] Exploring Neolithic Art in French Caves [00:26:50] The Historical Significance of Vézelay [00:30:25] The Battle of Alesia and Roman Conquest [00:35:31] Charles de Gaulle's Legacy in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises [00:40:13] Final Thoughts and Future Travels [00:41:50] Thank You Patrons! [00:42:49] Tour Review [00:43:25] Podcast Listeners Discounts [00:44:34] Strikes Coming Up [00:47:20] Political Uncertainty [00:48:44] Air Quality in Paris [00:50:33] EES and ETIAS [00:52:25] Next Week on the Podcast [00:52:47] Copyright More episodes about going off the beaten path in France

Have you ever dreamed of exploring French villages at your own pace? In this episode, Village-Hopping in the Dordogne and Beyond: A Traveler's Guide with Jackie Barnes, host Annie Sargent talks with traveler Jackie Barnes about her recent road trip through one of France's most beautiful regions. Listen to this episode ad-free Jackie shares how she and her family designed a flexible Dordogne road trip that let them visit charming towns, sample local food, and enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed. From famous stops like Sarlat and Rocamadour to less crowded villages along the river, Jackie explains what made each place special. She also talks about driving in rural France, finding parking in small towns, and the importance of leaving room in your schedule for spontaneous discoveries. Annie and Jackie compare notes on French markets, restaurants, and the kind of authentic encounters that happen when you stay in smaller inns or gîtes instead of big hotels. They also highlight cultural differences, from the rhythm of French mealtimes to how Sundays feel completely different compared to North America. This episode is packed with practical tips for anyone planning to go beyond Paris and explore provincial France. You'll hear why renting a car is essential, how to balance sightseeing with relaxation, and which Dordogne villages Jackie would happily return to again. If you are searching for advice on exploring the Dordogne, planning a Dordogne road trip, or simply want inspiration for your next journey to France, this conversation will help you see what's possible. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast to get weekly episodes with trip reports, itineraries, and deep dives into French culture and history. Don't just visit France—experience it like a traveler who knows where to look. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Theme of the Trip [00:00:30] Today on the podcast [00:00:51] Podcast supporters [00:01:25] Magazine segment [00:02:17] Annie and Jackie Barnes [00:02:31] Planning the Journey [00:05:33] Driving in France [00:07:57] Exploring Sarlat and Surroundings [00:10:29] The Knights Templar [00:11:22] Strawberries in March in Paris [00:15:24] Visiting Chateau Milandes and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle [00:16:33] Castelnaud-la-Chapelle [00:18:12] Cycling Adventures on Voie Verte from Sarlat [00:21:28] You Can Ask for a Doggy Bag in France [00:22:47] Language Barriers and Cultural Experiences [00:25:12] Exploring Cahors and Malbec Wine [00:25:37] Font-de-Gaume Cave Paintings [00:26:58] Hiking from Bouzies to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie [00:29:52] Visiting Saint-Vincent-Rive-d'Eault and Wineries [00:33:30] Theft of Reliquaries and Sainte-Foy's Story [00:35:30] Capdenac [00:36:18] Exploring Martel and Rocamadour [00:39:07] Canoeing on the Dordogne River [00:40:15] Gouffre de Padirac Cave Adventure [00:41:54] Autoire Waterfall Hike and Final Thoughts [00:45:26] Thank You, Patrons [00:46:02] Support Elyse [00:46:10] Le Journée Européenne du Patrimoine [00:49:56] Personal Update [00:53:59] Next week on the podcast [00:54:20] Copyright More episodes about the Dordogne

Have you ever wondered how one writer could change French literature and politics at the same time? That's the story we tell in Émile Zola: The Life, Legacy, and Scandal of France's Most Influential Writer. In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent sits down with Elyse Rivin to explore the extraordinary life of Émile Zola. Zola was not just a novelist. He was a social critic, a scandal-maker, and a public voice for justice. His Rougon-Macquart series, including the famous novel Germinal, revealed the lives of miners, shopkeepers, and workers in 19th-century France. His friendship with Paul Cézanne shaped his early years. His relationship with Jeanne Rozerot brought private scandal. And his article J'Accuse made him a hero during the Dreyfus Affair, even though it forced him into exile in England. Annie and Elyse take you through the highlights of an Émile Zola biography in plain language. You'll learn about his role in shaping the Naturalist movement, his courage to stand up against injustice, and why he rests today in the Panthéon in Paris alongside France's greatest figures. This episode isn't just about books. It's about history, politics, scandal, and courage. It's about how one man's words still echo in France today. If you're curious about French literature, Paris history, or the Dreyfus Affair, this episode is for you. You'll walk away with stories you can share and a deeper understanding of France's cultural heritage. 👉 Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast today. You'll get fresh episodes every week about French history, culture, and practical travel tips. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:29] Today on the podcast [00:00:58] Podcast supporters [00:01:39] Magazine segment [00:02:14] Next week on the podcast [00:02:34] Annie and Elyse about Emile Zola [00:03:39] Early Life and Family Struggles [00:07:23] Friendship with Paul Cézanne and Artistic Influences [00:09:19] Challenges and Failures in Education [00:12:47] Rise as a Journalist and Critic [00:20:56] Transition to Novel Writing: Les Rougon-Macquart [00:23:16] Naturalism and Literary Success [00:30:11] Books in the Rougon-Macquart Series [00:32:28] Zola's Later Works and Personal Struggles [00:33:57] A Double Life: Zola's Affair and Family Dynamics [00:38:57] The Dreyfus Affair: Zola's Fight for Justice [00:46:36] Exile and Return: Zola's Final Years [00:50:29] Legacy and Final Thoughts on Zola [01:01:02] Copyright More episodes about French culture