Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Join Catherine McMillan, a French native and U.S. resident, as she shares tales from her immersive road trip through Southwest France. Discover the charm of lesser-known areas like Bayonne and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, emphasizing slow travel and authentic experiences. Catherine reveals hidden gems like local markets and unique museums, including the quirky Oyster Museum. She provides practical tips on navigating scenic routes and highlights the rich culture and culinary experiences that make this region a must-visit for any traveler.

Have you ever dreamed of boating through the French countryside? In “Exploring the Canal du Midi on a Rental Boat,” host Annie Sargent talks with John and Sally Capets about their week-long adventure on this historic waterway. They rented a boat with friends and spent their days slowly drifting past vineyards, plane trees, and medieval villages in southern France. Listen to this episode ad-free They share what it’s really like to rent a boat on the Canal du Midi, navigate the many locks, and live in close quarters while exploring the beauty of Occitanie. John and Sally talk about practical details like packing light, using bikes along the towpath, and finding places to eat along the canal. They also explain why traveling slowly by boat gives you a deeper connection to France and its people. They share highlights like seeing La Cité de Carcassonne from the water, visiting the Malpas Tunnel, and dining canal-side in Colombiers. They offer helpful advice for those curious about a Canal du Midi boat rental, what it costs, and what to expect during a week on the water. If you love slow travel, French culture, and practical travel tips, you will enjoy this episode. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for weekly episodes that bring you closer to France, whether you are planning your next trip or just dreaming about it. Listen now to discover how exploring the Canal du Midi by boat could be the relaxing adventure you didn’t know you needed. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Intro [00:00:31] Today on the podcast [00:01:02] Podcast supporters [00:01:52] Magazine segment [00:02:09] John and Sally [00:04:07] Boat travel on Canal du Midi [00:05:28] Selecting the Boat [00:05:55]  No experience needed and no license required [00:08:51] Kitchen on Board of the Boat [00:13:09] Riding the Bikes along the Canal du Midi [00:16:05] Boat Pickup and Drop Off: How Much Distance Is Too Much? [00:17:44] Going through the locks [00:18:22]  Visiting La Cité de Carcassonne. [00:20:50]  THe Fonseraneses Locks [00:24:58]  Dining Canal side in Colombier. [00:25:38]  Malpas Tunnel [00:28:51]  Folk Art at the Ecluse de L’Aiguille? [00:30:46] Sleeping on a small boat [00:33:20] Travel Light! [00:35:08] Pont Canal sur l’Orb [00:36:00] Sightseeing in Toulouse [00:44:17] Late September Weather on the Canal du Midi [00:46:02] Who Is It For? [00:48:57] Thank You Patrons [00:49:47] Zoom meetings with Patrons [00:50:39] Tour Reviews [00:53:29] Podcast Listeners Discount Codes [00:54:23] The Tour de France 2025 [00:56:21] Next Week on the Podcast [00:56:49] Copyright More episodes about the Occitanie region of France

Have you ever wondered how France became the world’s perfume capital? In “The Story of Perfume: A Journey Through France's Luxurious Past,” host Annie Sargent and guest Elyse Rivin from Toulouse Guided Walks take you on a fragrant journey through French history. They explore how perfume evolved from smoky rituals and religious ceremonies to the luxury bottles we see today. You will learn how Grasse became the heart of perfume making and why Chanel No. 5, Shalimar, and Poison became iconic scents tied to France. Listen to the episode ad-free to travel back in time through the scents of France! Annie and Elyse share stories about Catherine de’ Medici bringing her personal perfumer to France, the smelly days at Versailles when perfume was used to cover the lack of bathing, and how Napoleon loved Eau de Cologne so much he used it daily. Discover how the French revolution impacted perfume makers, how the Guerlain family shaped perfume history, and how synthetic fragrances changed the industry. If you are planning a trip to France, Annie and Elyse suggest several places you can visit to enjoy this history in real life. This episode is perfect for travelers interested in French culture, perfume lovers, and anyone curious about the unique stories that shaped France. Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast to get weekly episodes that bring France to life with history, culture, and practical travel tips for your next adventure. Listen to this episode to add a touch of scent and story to your France travel plans and discover why perfume remains one of the country’s most luxurious traditions. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Topic Overview [00:00:31] Today on the podcast [00:01:03] Podcast supporters [00:01:59] No Magazine segment [00:02:33] Annie and Elyse about the History of Perfume in France [00:03:01] Perfume as a French Identity [00:04:15] Understanding Different Types of Perfume [00:07:38] Historical Significance of Perfume [00:08:46] The Fragonard Perfume Store near the Opera House in Paris [00:09:30] Finding Your Perfume [00:13:27] The word Perfume [00:13:30] Origin of the word “perfume” [00:14:44] Perfume in Religious and Cultural Practices [00:16:27] Perfume in Ancient Civilizations [00:20:24] The Renaissance Influence on French Perfume [00:21:58] Catherine de’ Medici and the Rise of French Perfume [00:25:59] Grasse: The Perfume Capital [00:29:19] Impact of the Plague on Hygiene and Perfume [00:31:16] The Unwashed Aristocracy [00:32:41] Perfume to Mask the Stench [00:34:52] The Spread of Perfume Culture [00:37:30] The Birth of Eau de Cologne [00:42:45] Perfume Revolution in the 1700s [00:44:33] Napoleon and the Return of Perfume [00:46:45] The Rise of Guerlain and Synthetic Perfumes [00:48:00] The Introduction of Synthetic Fragrances [00:50:24] Perfume in 20th Century [00:52:15] Coco Chanel and Chanel No5 [00:53:34] Christian Dior and the Perfume for the “New Women” [00:54:18] The Golden Age of French Perfume [00:56:17] Conclusion and Final Thoughts More episodes about French culture

Kim Cox, a passionate traveler from Minnesota, shares her delightful December adventures in Paris and Strasbourg. She offers tips for enjoying the chilly Parisian museums, including the Musée d'Orsay, and discusses the ongoing restoration of Notre-Dame. In Strasbourg, Kim immerses herself in the festive Christmas markets, discovering the best vin chaud and local culture. Her stories paint a vibrant picture of winter in France, highlighting the charm of cozy cafes and festive lights that make this season magical.

What’s it really like to walk a long-distance trail in rural France? In this episode of Join Us in France, titled Hiking Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley, host Annie Sargent talks with Rowena Sjovall, a solo traveler from the U.S. walking the GR65 and the scenic Célé Valley route. Get the podcast ad-free Rowena shares her detailed experience hiking the Chemin du Puy, one of France’s most popular pilgrimage trails. She talks about trail conditions, signage, and the variety of landscapes—rolling hills, deep river valleys, and charming medieval towns. If you’ve wondered about hiking from Le Puy-en-Velay toward Cahors or incorporating the lesser-known Célé Valley variant, Rowena offers honest insights. The conversation covers practical tips too. What kind of gear should you bring? How easy is it to find food and lodging? What’s the vibe among other hikers? Annie asks all the right questions to help listeners decide if this kind of trip is for them. Whether you're planning a Camino in France or just curious about rural walking holidays, this episode delivers both inspiration and real-world advice. Don’t forget to subscribe to Join Us in France for more episodes like this, where travel dreams and logistics meet. Perfect for slow travel lovers, Francophiles, and adventure-seekers! Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Greetings [00:00:31] Today on the podcast [00:00:59] Podcast supporters [00:01:32] The Magazine segment [00:02:25] Annie and Rowena [00:03:11] The Crazy Adventure Begins [00:06:27] Planning the Journey [00:08:41] Navigating the Trail [00:12:45] Challenges and Perseverance [00:18:48] Starting point [00:27:14] Navigating Through Cornfields [00:27:51] Rainy Day Lunch and Milka Chocolate [00:28:44] Challenges of Finding Food and Shelter [00:29:43] Reaching the Hilltop and Meeting Fellow Travelers [00:32:48] Exploring Troglodyte Houses [00:34:07] Communal Dinners and Accommodations [00:34:51] Comfort Level at the Accommodations in the Célé Valley [00:41:14] Advice for Future Travelers [00:44:15] Planning the Next Journey [00:47:41] The hardest day [00:48:17] Concluding Thoughts and Farewell [00:48:45] Thank you Patrons [00:49:40] Tour Reviews [00:50:40] Discount for Podcast Listeners [00:51:54] Swimming in the Seine [00:56:21] Next week on the podcast [00:56:58] Copyright   More episodes about active vacations in France

Stephen Nicholson, a seasoned traveler, shares his 24-day adventure through France, exploring by trains, cars, and buses. He offers practical tips on navigating public transport, booking tickets, and finding parking in charming villages. Stephen discusses the benefits of train travel versus car rental, highlighting cultural immersion and budget-friendly advice. Moreover, he touches on lesser-known travel challenges like managing luggage logistics and currency tips for refueling. Perfect for those looking to experience France at their own pace!

Exploring the Life and Historical Impact of the Marquis de Lafayette Who was the Marquis de Lafayette, and why does he matter so much in both France and the United States? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with Elyse Rivin about the life, legacy, and travels of this iconic figure. Lafayette was more than just a name in a history book—he was a young French noble who risked everything to support the American Revolution and later tried to bring those same ideals back to France during the French Revolution. Get the podcast ad-free Annie and Elyse dive into his fascinating biography, from his childhood in Auvergne to his close relationship with George Washington. They discuss Lafayette’s political struggles in France, his imprisonment, and his lasting influence on both sides of the Atlantic. The episode explores why Lafayette is considered a hero in two countries and how you can visit places in France connected to his life. If you're planning a trip to France and love history, this episode offers great travel tips too. You'll hear about the Château de Chavaniac-Lafayette, Picpus Cemetery in Paris, and the replica of the Hermione, the ship that carried him to America. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. Whether you're into French history, Revolutionary War connections, or looking for meaningful places to visit in France, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction and Setting the Stage — [00:00:31] Today on the podcast — [00:00:56] Podcast supporters — [00:02:16] Annie and Elyse about Marquis de Lafayette — [00:05:17] Lafayette’s Early Life and Background — [00:07:33] Lafayette’s Birth — [00:10:07] Lafayette’s Marriage — [00:12:03] Joining the Army — [00:13:14] Lafayette’s Role in the American Revolution — [00:19:22] First trip to the New World — [00:23:05] The Monetary Contribution of Lafayette and France to the American Revolution — [00:25:47] Back to France — [00:27:39] The Hermione — [00:29:14] Lafayette’s Return to France and Revolutionary Ideas — [00:31:38] Lafayette’s Continued Influence and Legacy — [00:32:20] Lafayette’s Political Awakening — [00:33:10] Pre-Revolutionary Activities — [00:34:34] Advocating for Equality and Abolition — [00:36:06] Lafayette’s role in the French Revolution — [00:37:54] Conflict with the Jacobins — [00:41:47] Exile and Imprisonment — [00:45:23] Return to France and Napoleon’s Distrust — [00:48:03] Lafayette’s Later Political Life — [00:53:29] Final Years and Legacy — [00:57:39] Lafayette’s Death — [01:00:39] Copyright — More episodes about French history

What makes a trip through France truly unforgettable? In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, titled Memorable France - Exploring Historic and Scenic Locations, host Annie Sargent chats with Ken Ives about his 25-day journey through some of the country’s most meaningful places. Ken is a thoughtful traveler from California who planned a route filled with both beauty and history. He shares what it was like to stand in the silence of Oradour-sur-Glane, see 29,000-year-old cave art in Pech Merle, and take in sweeping views of the Lot Valley. Along the way, he visited Poitiers, Sancerre, Rocamadour, the Camargue, and more. They talk about how to mix slow travel with big moments. Ken gives practical tips on hotels, restaurants, driving in rural France, and managing travel with limited mobility. He also shares some memorable meals, like gardiane de taureau in the Camargue and Crottin de Chavignol pasta in Sancerre. If you’re searching for a deep, rewarding France itinerary with local flavor and historic depth, this episode is packed with ideas. It's perfect for listeners who want to go beyond the usual tourist circuit. Subscribe to Join Us in France on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app to discover new places, hear real stories, and plan smarter trips. Table of Contents for this Episode [00:00:15] Introduction — [00:00:31] Today on the podcast — [00:00:50] Podcast supporters — [00:01:20] The Magazine segment — [00:01:49] Welcome, Ken Ives — [00:02:37] Exploring Fontainebleau and Sancerre — [00:03:30] Journey through Poitiers and Oradour-sur-Glane — [00:05:17] Southern France Adventures — [00:06:23] Discovering Poitiers Battlefield — [00:09:10]  Nouaillé-Maupertuis town and abbey — [00:10:20] Dining Experiences in Poitiers — [00:16:08] Visiting Pech Merle Cave — [00:23:26] Exploring the Pech Merle Museum — [00:24:25] Touring the Pech Merle Cave — [00:26:14] Dating the Ancient Cave Paintings — [00:29:11] Accessibility and Ease of Visiting Pech Merle — [00:32:23] Discovering the Lot Valley and Surroundings — [00:36:41] Visiting the Camargue and Bird Sanctuary — [00:45:42] Culinary Delights of the Camargue — [00:48:31] Conclusion and Future Adventures — [00:49:39] Thank you Patrons — [00:51:00] Discount for podcast listeners — [00:52:18] Changes to French Toll Roads — [00:54:38] Next week on the podcast — [00:54:57] Copyright — More Episodes about Going Off the Beaten Track in France

Linda and Scott Rogers share their enchanting journey through France, exploring Paris, Dijon, Annecy, and Lyon. Linda, a passionate traveler, fulfilled her dream of visiting the Alps, while Scott brought Olympic insights as a producer. They discuss picturesque biking adventures in Burgundy and delightful local cuisines, including their culinary experiences in Lyon. Tips on avoiding crowds in Paris and enjoying local markets in Annecy highlight their practical travel advice. Join them for inspirations to embrace the charm of each region, balancing exploration with relaxation.

What’s it like to explore France on your own? In A Solo Traveler’s Experience in Southwest France, host Annie Sargent chats with Dawn Fairchild, a seasoned traveler from Los Angeles who set out on a two-week solo adventure through the stunning regions of the Lot, Dordogne, and Toulouse. Get the podcast ad-free Dawn shares her honest impressions, travel tips, and favorite moments—from learning French in a relaxed immersion program near Cahors to wandering the medieval streets of Sarlat. She talks about her visit to the painted cave at Pech Merle, wine tasting in Cahors, the markets of Toulouse, and unexpected joys like stumbling into a vide-grenier in Montignac. Annie and Dawn discuss beautiful châteaux like Beynac and Milandes, Josephine Baker’s legacy, and how Southwest France is a treasure trove of history, food, and natural beauty. Whether you're dreaming about Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, want to explore Toulouse’s vibrant markets, or plan to visit the Cité du Vin in Bordeaux, this episode is packed with useful details and inspiration. Annie and Dawn also reflect on the joys and challenges of solo travel, including navigating language and culture with confidence. Subscribe to Join Us in France for more conversations like this—real stories from travelers who dive deep into French life, culture, and history. New episodes drop every week. Let’s look around France together! Table of Contents for this Episode Introduction and Trip Overview Today on the podcast — Podcast supporters — The Magazine segment — Annie and Dawn Fairchild about the Southwest — When did this trip take place? First Impressions of Southwest France — Immersion Program Experience — Exploring the Lot Department and Painted Caves — Wine tasting in Cahors — Discovering Sarlat and Surroundings — Losse Chateau and Garden — Montignac — Highlights of the Dordogne — Chateau des Milandes and Josephine Baker’s Legacy — Chateau de Beynac — Boat and Hot Air Ballon Tours in Beygnac — Exploring the Dordogne: Chateaus, Rivers, and Prehistoric Caves — Falling in Love with Toulouse: A City of Charm and Joy — The Allure of the Toulouse Accent and Local Life — A Delightful Stay in Les Carmes: Le Clos des Salins — Toulouse Markets and Culinary Adventures: Take Elyse’s VoiceMap tour of Toulouse! — Museums and Historical Sites in Toulouse — Bordeaux: Historic Center and Cité du Vin Museum — Political Conversations and Market Experiences — New Things Learned in the Trip — Travel Challenges and Personal Growth — Reflections on the Trip and Future Plans — Thank you Patrons! — Podcast Listeners Discount — Itinerary Consultations with Annie — Hidden messages in the obelisk at Place de la Concorde. — Next week on the podcast — Copyright — More episodes about the southwest of France